NEC Malaysia Uses Pickleball to Empower Kids in CSR Initiative
What's the Score?
NEC Malaysia, a prominent digital transformation company, hosted a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) event titled "Smash Barrier, Serve Hope: Giving Back Through Pickleball" in Kuala Lumpur, utilising pickleball and technology to connect its employees with underprivileged children from the Hiichiikok Home for Children Care.
Hit it deeper!
NEC Malaysia, a key player in the country's digital transformation landscape and a subsidiary of NEC Corporation, recently organised a meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) event. Held on May 14, 2025, the initiative was titled "Smash Barrier, Serve Hope: Giving Back Through Pickleball" and was a collaboration with the Hiichiikok Home for Children Care located in Kuala Lumpur. This special day was designed to build connections between NEC employees and underprivileged children through a combination of engaging activities.
A central component of the event was the inclusion of pickleball coaching sessions and friendly matches. Pickleball was specifically chosen for the event because of its accessibility, being a sport that individuals of all ages and skill levels can easily learn and enjoy. This made it an ideal activity to foster interaction and fun between the employees and the children.
As part of an "Adopt a Child for a Day" initiative, each child from the home, ranging in age from 4 to 17, was paired with an NEC employee for the duration of the event. This pairing aimed to create personal connections and a supportive atmosphere. Beyond the physical activity of pickleball, the NEC employees also took the opportunity to introduce the children to the world of technology. Employees shared stories and insights about innovation, providing the children with a glimpse into how technology influences and enhances lives globally. This educational aspect aligns with NEC's commitment to empowering future generations and helping youth gain a strong understanding of technology in an increasingly digital world.
Wataru Irie, Managing Director of NEC Malaysia, commented on the event's significance. He noted that NEC's 125th anniversary served as an inspiration to reflect on their journey as a trusted partner and that trust is built through connection and care. Irie highlighted that the CSR initiative was proudly organised by NEC Malaysia's Next Generation Leaders, a committee tasked with driving transformation within the company, and that such programs are part of their efforts to create a meaningful impact. He stated that the overarching goal was to inspire the next generation and contribute to building a future where technology empowers people from all backgrounds.
Frieda Ngui, Home Manager of Hiichiikok Home of Children Care, expressed gratitude for NEC's efforts. She noted that the children rarely have such opportunities as underprivileged youths and that the pickleball session and the "Adopt a Child for a Day" initiative truly made them feel included, cared for, and happy.
Beyond the activities on the day, the NEC staff also successfully organised fundraising efforts. Through the generosity of its employees, RM8,000 was raised. This money will be used to provide essential groceries and furniture for the Hiichiikok Home for Children Care. This additional contribution further demonstrates NEC's dedication to community well-being and its aim to create positive impacts that extend beyond its core business activities. The event exemplifies how sports like pickleball can be utilised as a tool for social good, facilitating interaction and support within the community.
The World Pickleball Verdict
NEC Malaysia's "Smash Barrier, Serve Hope" event effectively showcased pickleball's potential as a tool for corporate social responsibility and community engagement. By leveraging the sport's inherent accessibility and pairing it with technological education, NEC created a valuable experience for both its employees and the children from the Hiichiikok Home. The initiative goes beyond a simple donation, facilitating direct connection and care. This event serves as a positive example of how businesses can utilise sports to foster social inclusion and support local communities, reinforcing the growing understanding of pickleball's versatility beyond just competition.