Sibu Jaya's multipurpose hall is getting a new lease of life, with pickleball now part of its growing list of community activities.
Key Highlights
- The hall has been repositioned as a community activity centre for residents.
- Pickleball is now available alongside social, educational and sporting activities.
- Court rental starts from RM10 per hour, depending on the day and time.
- Users must follow booking and facility rules, including giving three days' notice for pickleball activities.
A New Role for Sibu Jaya's Multipurpose Hall
The days of the hall being mainly associated with official functions are changing. The Sibu Jaya Multipurpose Hall is now being opened up as a space for residents to gather, learn, play sport and take part in community activities.
Its new role covers everything from social gatherings and educational programmes to sporting events and development initiatives. Sibu Rural District Council chairman Sempurai Petrus Ngelai said the aim is to strengthen community ties and encourage greater participation by making the hall a central gathering point.
Pickleball Joins the Line-Up
One of the newest attractions is pickleball, giving residents a dedicated place to play a sport that has been growing in popularity across Malaysia.
The pricing also keeps the courts relatively accessible. From Monday to Friday, players pay RM10 per hour between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., while the evening rate from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. is RM20 per hour. For weekends and public holidays, the rate is RM15 per hour from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and RM25 per hour from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Players organising competitions will need to put down a RM100 deposit. Meanwhile, larger events, official programmes and functions are priced at RM450, together with a RM300 deposit.
Keeping the Courts Ready for Everyone
With the hall now serving more users, keeping the facility in good condition is part of the deal. Players are required to clean up after use, return borrowed equipment within one day and cover the cost of any damaged or lost items. Anyone planning pickleball activities must also give at least three days' notice.
Booking forms can be obtained from the Sibu Jaya Public Library, while applications can also be made directly to the Secretary of the Sibu Rural District Council. For bookings, residents can contact Roswati Hj Mid at 011-10568119 or Andy Buja at 012-8931129.
More Than Just a Pickleball Court
By opening the doors to more recreational and community activities, Sibu Jaya's multipurpose hall can now serve a wider cross-section of residents — from people looking for a pickleball session to groups organising programmes and gatherings.
The pickleball courts may be one of the hall's newest additions, but the bigger change is how the facility is being used. It's a simple shift, but one that gives the community another shared space to play, connect and participate.
