By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Hong Kong artiste Hugo Wong calls Sabah an internationally recognised destination for its sea, mountains and people.
Wong, in Kota Kinabalu for the inaugural Borneo International Pickleball Open 2026, said he has visited Sabah more than 10 times.
“You can experience nature at close range. I enjoy the sunshine, sightseeing, shopping and culture. The people are warm and friendly.
“That is why I never hesitate to promote Sabah in Hong Kong,” he said when met at The Good Club.
Wong made the trip despite a filming schedule for a drama in Hong Kong to support co-organiser Megas Mind Creative Development.
The company organised the three-day event with Kelab Rekreasi Pickleball Borneo Sabah.
More than 500 players are competing. Wong called it the largest pickleball competition in Sabah to date.
“It gives players from outside Kota Kinabalu a chance to experience Sabah, and local players a chance to compete and exchange ideas with international participants,” he said.
Wong partnered Datuk Josie Lai, permanent secretary to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment, in an exhibition match after the opening ceremony.
His appearance drew a strong reaction from fans.
The event is supported by the Ministry, Sabah Tourism Board, Tourism Malaysia Sabah, Protech Sports and Explore Sabah. It is sanctioned by the Sabah Pickleball Association.
Organising chairwoman is Datin Elaine Fong Yee Ling, director of Megas Mind Creative Development.
Wong said he admires Sabahans for their enthusiasm for sport and fitness.
“I will come back, whether for sports tourism – pickleball, tennis, cycling – or entertainment,” he said.
He has previously visited Kudat for the Tip of Borneo and Tenom for the Sabah Agriculture Park.
“The fresh and diverse fruits in Tenom are etched in my memory. I have shared that experience with family, friends and fans,” he said.
Hugo (centre), with Elaine (on his left), and Leong Ka Fatt, chairman of Kelab Rekreasi Pickleball Borneo Sabah. Also pictured are strategic partners Amity Wong (right), director of I-World and Sheena Wong (left), director of Sense Vacation
