News & Stories
Apr 8, 2025
Pickleball is officially making its mark in West Sumatra, thanks to the proactive steps taken by Semen Padang Schools. On February 25, 2025, the school community gathered at the Semen Padang Schools Hall in Indarung to launch their Pickleball Sports Talent Socialization & Development program, setting the foundation for the sport’s growth among students and the wider community.
This initiative is more than just an introduction to a new sport — it’s part of a long-term vision to create opportunities for young athletes, promote healthy lifestyles, and establish Semen Padang Schools as a hub for pickleball talent in Indonesia.
Making Pickleball Part of School Culture
Pickleball, a fast-growing sport played on a badminton-sized court with a lower net and solid paddles, is celebrated for its simple rules and inclusive nature. It’s easy to learn, affordable to play, and enjoyable for all ages, making it a perfect addition to school sports programs.
As Ridwan Muchtar, Chairman of the Igasar Semen Padang Foundation, explained, the goal is to ensure that pickleball becomes familiar and accessible to students. "It is hoped that this sport will become more well-known and with the development at Semen Padang Schools, it can produce talented athletes, besides protecting them from negative things."
For many students, pickleball offers a fresh and exciting option to stay active and connected, while also opening doors to future athletic success.
Pioneering Pickleball in West Sumatra
Beyond the school environment, this program also positions Semen Padang Schools as an important pioneer of pickleball in the region. Freddo Syukri, General Chairman of the Semen Padang Group Employee Communication Forum (FKKSPG), expressed strong support for the school's efforts, saying, "We welcome this development, later we will propose it as a sport under the umbrella of FKKSPG. We hope to produce athletes with achievements like other sports that have made PT Semen Padang, West Sumatra and even Indonesia proud."
By integrating pickleball into student life and employee programs, the initiative aims to create a sustainable pipeline of players who can compete at both local and national levels.
A Boost from the Indonesian Pickleball Federation
The Indonesian Pickleball Federation (IPF) of West Sumatra has also recognized the significance of this development. Oktarivaldi, Secretary General of the IPF West Sumatra Provincial Government, praised the move, highlighting the opportunity it creates for rising athletes.
"This is a big step to popularize this sport in West Sumatra and Indonesia in general," Oktarivaldi said. "We are confident that Semen Padang Schools has the ability to develop this sport, considering their achievements in other sports that are already popular."
With pickleball already featured in major national events like the 2024 National Sports Week in Aceh-North Sumatra, local players now have a clear path to aim for competitive success.
Supporting Indonesia’s Sporting Vision
This program aligns with broader national goals of strengthening Indonesia’s human resources through sports. By encouraging students to participate in pickleball, Semen Padang Schools are helping to "realize healthy, productive, and globally competitive humans," echoing the ambitions of national leaders to create a thriving, active population.
The Future of Pickleball Starts Here
As pickleball continues to surge in popularity across Asia, the steps taken by Semen Padang Schools showcase how grassroots initiatives can spark lasting change. Through dedication, collaboration, and community support, West Sumatra is now firmly on the map as a region ready to embrace and grow this exciting sport.
With talented young players picking up their paddles and dreams of future championships on the horizon, the journey for pickleball in Indonesia is only just beginning — and Semen Padang Schools are leading the way.
