FOMO fuels pickleball craze as Malaysians seek fun path to fitness
This activity has been gaining popularity, even among those who initially had little interest in sports but eventually got hooked due to the psychological phenomenon known as the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO).
According to Norezzati Md Hanafiah, a psychologist at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Hospital, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), FOMO — often linked to social pressure or unhealthy lifestyle habits — can actually be used positively, including to encourage a more active lifestyle.
She explained that from a psychological perspective, this drive is closely tied to the human instinct to be accepted within a social group, which is essential for emotional well-being. In the context of pickleball or other light sports, FOMO can turn into a positive motivator.
'One might start as a spectator, then develop an interest in trying it out, which can become a turning point toward adopting a healthier lifestyle. If handled properly, FOMO can spark healthy habits that spread widely within a community,' she said.
Beyond physical benefits, pickleball also contributes to mental health through its relaxed and fun social aspects — enhancing mood, providing ongoing motivation, and offering social therapy for those dealing with work stress or burnout.
Players looking at pickleball equipments. — Bernama pic
According to Norezzati, the approach to health promotion is evolving, with a greater focus on the fun-first concept, as seen in pickleball. This makes physical activity enjoyable and more effective than approaches that emphasise beauty or weight loss.
'When an activity is seen as fun rather than a burden, people are more likely to stick with it. This makes a healthy lifestyle something to enjoy rather than something to be forced into,' she said, adding that social media plays a major role in spreading the trend and creating a wave of normalisation that encourages more people to try it without feeling embarrassed or self-conscious.
Pickleball is also the sport of choice for national hockey legend Datuk Mirnawan Nawawi, 53, who was drawn to the game's unique, low-impact nature, making it suitable for all age groups.
'I find pickleball to be perfect for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. Previously, I only did brisk walking and went to the gym for workouts,' said Mirnawan, who has been actively playing since mid-last year.
As the owner of Pickleball Playground in Shah Alam, he also encourages participation among youth under the age of 18, seeing their potential as future athletes who could elevate the sport to greater heights.
Mirnawan also described pickleball as a wallet-friendly and accessible sport, noting that with court rental fees ranging from RM50 to RM70 per hour — usually split among several players — and minimal equipment requirements, the sport is suitable for people from all walks of life.
'In residential areas, for instance, the community or management could make use of and modify existing badminton or basketball courts slightly, so residents can play for free and enjoy a variety of recreational sports,' he said. — Bernama
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Free Malaysia Today
an hour ago
- Free Malaysia Today
Sarawak emerges as leading state for first-in-human cancer drug trials
Sarawak deputy premier Dr Sim Kui Hian said these achievements have put the state on the global map and demonstrate that local expertise can meet international research standards. KUALA LUMPUR : Sarawak has emerged as the leading state for first-in-human clinical trials in Malaysia, with Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) playing a key role in testing new cancer drugs. Deputy premier Dr Sim Kui Hian said the state had now conducted eight such trials, and that of the 25 new oncology drugs developed and marketed globally, eight had a footprint in Sarawak. 'Before last year, there had never been a first-in-human trial done in Malaysia. People didn't trust us, or we were not up to expectations. 'But since last year, first-in-human clinical trials have been done in Malaysia, five last year alone. Four of them were done at SGH, and there are four more this year,' he said at the 5th Asean International Oncology Integrative Medicine Session here today. First-in-human trials involve testing new drugs on people for the first time and are considered critical in the development of life-saving treatments, particularly for cancer. Sim said these achievements had put Sarawak on the global map and demonstrated that local expertise could meet international research standards. 'This shows that we are no longer just seen as a third-world country. If you don't have first-in-human trials, there will be no new drug discoveries for cancer.' He added that 155 clinical trials had been conducted in the state, making it one of the top contributors among 267 trial sites across Malaysia. He also said such trials were governed by strict international standards. 'You cannot just say, 'I want to be a first-in-human site'. These sites are monitored very strictly, not just by Malaysians, but by the companies as well,' he said. 'Worldwide, there are only about 30 sites that meet these standards, so you must be a top-tier centre to qualify.' Despite these achievements, Sim expressed concern over the state of facilities at SGH's cancer centre. 'In Sarawak, I always say, you go to the cancer department not sick but (then) become sick, because the facilities are not ideal, not up to standard,' he said. He said the federal government had cited financial constraints when asked for funds to upgrade the facilities. 'So the Sarawak government said, let's form a partnership. The Sarawak government will come in with RM1 billion first. If that's not enough, let us know, and when the federal government has money, they can start paying us back. 'Are we supposed to wait until there's money? By then people would have died. We care more about saving lives first,' he added.
Malay Mail
3 hours ago
- Malay Mail
Clarisound rolls out mobile and tele-audiology services across Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 5 August 2025 - Clarisound is revolutionizing hearing care delivery by bringing professional audiology services directly to Malaysians through online tests, telecare appointments, and digital tools—extending expert support to homes, offices, and virtually company's Telecare service supports existing Clarisound customers who've completed in-person hearing tests, otoscopy, and device fitting. These foundational steps require face-to-face interaction for accuracy. Once established, Telecare bridges the gap between visits, delivering professional expertise wherever customers widespread reluctance to address hearing issues, Clarisound offers online hearing tests accessible via smartphone or computer. This discreet, minutes-long assessment provides an entry point for those uncertain about their hearing health or hesitant to seek clinical services complement in-store consultations through video appointments with qualified audiologists who evaluate, adjust, and troubleshoot remotely. This approach reduces travel time and costs while ensuring continuity for those with mobility challenges or time constraints."Telecare isn't a replacement, but a smart extension of personalized hearing care," explains Kieran McCarry, Clarisound's founder. "In-person visits remain essential for comprehensive assessments—hearing tests, ear examinations, real-ear measurements, and initial fittings. However, Telecare maintains connection between appointments, supporting aural rehabilitation with remote adjustments that fit seamlessly into daily life. This proactive approach enhances comfort and drives better long-term outcomes."Clarisound leverages growing interest in devices like Apple AirPods Pro2 as conversation starters about hearing health. While not medical-grade substitutes, features like "Conversation Boost" increase sound quality awareness, prompting users to seek professional model proves particularly impactful where hearing health awareness is developing. By eliminating traditional barriers—geographic distance, stigma, and clinical accessibility—Clarisound empowers individuals to address hearing health earlier and more integration of mobile technology, online testing, and professional telecare positions Clarisound as a Malaysian healthcare leader. Rather than treating hearing loss as niche, the company reframes it as central to everyday health. With every mobile test, teleconsultation, or hearing aid fitted, Clarisound brings hearing care out of clinical settings into daily life, where it #Clarisound The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Clarisound Clarisound is a leading hearing care provider delivering accessible, expert audiology services. Focusing on user experience and early intervention, the company combines advanced technology with professional care to support hearing health across Malaysia.
Free Malaysia Today
10 hours ago
- Free Malaysia Today
All in your head: understanding brain tumours
In Malaysia, brain and central nervous system cancers account for about 1.7% of newly diagnosed cancer cases, with an incidence of 1.26 per 100,000 people annually. (Envato Elements pic) KUALA LUMPUR : A brain tumour diagnosis is often met with dread, primarily due to myths or misconceptions, limited awareness, and the silent nature of symptoms. In Malaysia, brain and central nervous system cancers account for about 1.7% of newly diagnosed cancer cases, with an incidence of 1.26 per 100,000 people annually. Among children under 14, the rate is estimated at two per 100,000. Consultant neurosurgeon Dr Ravindran Karuppiah explained that a brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells within the brain or surrounding areas. 'Benign tumours like meningiomas tend to grow slowly and don't spread, but they can still cause significant symptoms due to the pressure they exert on nearby brain structures,' he said. 'Malignant tumours, such as glioblastomas, are cancerous, grow rapidly, and can invade nearby tissues.' Tumours are also categorised as primary, arising directly within the brain, or secondary, when cancer spreads from another part of the body to the brain. Tumours on the rise? Although brain tumours are less common compared to other cancers, Malaysia has seen a noticeable increase in diagnosed cases. This, however, may not signal an actual rise in prevalence. Dr Ravindran Karuppiah. 'With greater public awareness and wider availability of advanced imaging tools like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans, more cases are being detected early,' Ravindran noted. 'People are more likely to investigate persistent symptoms today than they were 20 years ago.' Brain tumours are surrounded by misconceptions, many of which delay diagnosis or cause unnecessary panic. 'One common myth is that a headache means you have a brain tumour. Headaches are actually a very non-specific symptom. It's only worrisome if it's accompanied by visual disturbances, speech difficulties, weakness, or numbness in the limbs,' Ravindran said. Another popular misconception is that brain surgery leads to personality changes or loss of function. 'Modern medical technology has dramatically changed the landscape,' he added. 'Surgical precision today is far greater, and outcomes are much improved. Patients are now recovering faster and with fewer complications.' And what about mobile phones? 'There's no solid evidence that normal mobile phone use significantly increases the risk of brain tumours.' So, what causes them? In most cases, the exact cause of brain tumours remains unknown. Good news – there is no proven link between mobile phone use and brain-tumour development. (Envato Elements pic) 'Most brain tumours are sporadic,' Ravindran said. 'A small number are linked to genetic conditions like neurofibromatosis, a disorder that causes tumours to grow on nerves throughout the body, including the brain.' While lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, or stress are important for overall well-being, they do not have a direct, proven link to brain-tumour development. A healthy lifestyle can support better outcomes during recovery and treatment. Ravindran stressed that one of the most powerful tools in improving outcomes is early detection – but recognising the signs can be tricky. 'Brain tumours don't always present in the same way. Some common red flags include persistent headaches, seizures, blurred vision, weakness in the arms or legs, speech difficulties, and unexplained personality changes.' In terms of treatment, neurosurgery has come a long way over the years. 'We now use high-resolution MRI and functional imaging to precisely locate and assess brain tumours,' Ravindran said. 'Neuronavigation systems, intraoperative MRI, and intraoperative nerve monitoring help guide our surgeries in real time.' High-resolution MRI and functional imaging allows doctors to precisely locate and assess brain tumours. (Envato Elements pic) He also highlighted the rise of less-invasive techniques such as awake craniotomy and keyhole surgery. 'These approaches have shortened hospital stays and reduced recovery time. In many cases, patients can return to normal life much sooner than expected.' Ultimately, with early detection, cutting-edge technology, and a holistic approach to care, patients are living longer, recovering better, and reclaiming their lives. 'The most important thing you can do is to listen to your body, stay informed, and never hesitate to seek medical advice. A timely consultation and imaging can make all the difference,' Ravindran concluded.
