Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur is a new destination for picklers.
The pickleball craze is exploding across the globe. According to statistics, the popularity behind the game has garnered the interest of over five million players across 84 countries. In Malaysia, pickleball continues to gain prominence, which is why we’re seeing hospitality players like Mandarin Oriental get in on the action.
Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur recently unveiled two brand-new pickleball courts on its premises. Located in the heart of the city, these courts provide an exciting and dynamic addition to the hotel’s comprehensive suite of leisure amenities.
According to Lluis Pou, Hotel Manager at Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur, the new courts are part of the property’s commitment towards elevating the guest experience. “The growth of pickleball has shown that most people are not only looking to be active, but also want a social sport to bond with,” he tells us. “With that in mind and the exponential growth of pickleball, we decided to dedicate a space for the sport.”
Leveraging On A Trend
Mandarin Oriental’s new pickleball courts.
Pickleball, a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, is suitable for players of all ages and skill levels. Mandarin Oriental’s pickleball courts are designed to meet the highest standards, ensuring a premier playing experience.
Pou reveals that the idea for building the courts took root several months ago. “We discussed the idea of it internally for a few months leading up to the eventual launch of the courts. This is because we were paying attention to the global lifestyle and wellness trends that were sweeping the globe.”
He continues, “When we saw that there was an immediate interest in Malaysia, we decided it would be a great opportunity to upgrade our offering.” Mandarin Oriental’s gamble has evidently paid off. Since opening, Pou reveals that there has been significant interest and bookings, both from hotel guests and Lifestyle members.
Elevating The Guest Experience
In addition to the new pickleball courts, the hotel has also refurbished its tennis court.
Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur’s pickleball courts are available for booking at RM40 per hour (RM80 inclusive of two paddles and two sets of balls) for its fitness and wellness members and hotel guests. For non-members, the hotel charges RM80 per hour (RM120 inclusive of two paddles and two sets of balls).
“Pickleball is a great addition to our existing lifestyle and wellness facilities including tennis, gym, yoga, sound healing and many more,” he adds. From a branding point of view, Pou opines that the new pickleball offering resonates deeply with Mandarin Oriental’s goal of elevating the guest experience.
“We aspire to provide guests with many different options for lifestyle and wellness, because we are advocates of a balanced lifestyle. With pickleball, it allows our guests of all ages and levels to get in a good workout, spend time with friends or loved ones and at the same time have an exceptional experience with this,” he adds.
In addition to this new offering, the hotel’s tennis court has recently undergone a comprehensive refurbishment. Featuring a newly refreshed surface and enhanced net tension, the upgraded court promises a superior playing experience for tennis enthusiasts.
