Forum: Let’s go with a bit more noise in exchange for a lot more life

Pickleball, once a niche sport, has surged in popularity across Singapore. Its charm lies in its simplicity – easy to learn, suitable for all ages, and requiring only a small court and a few friends.

But as the “pok-pok” of paddle meeting plastic ball echoes across estates, a new tension has surfaced: noise complaints.

In response, some town councils have restricted or banned pickleball from public spaces (

Pickleball noise causes tension in some estates as the sport gains popularity

, Sept 11).

What began as a sport meant to connect has now divided communities. And this leads us to a deeper question: What do we really want from our shared spaces?

At the heart of this is a familiar theme: the Not In My Backyard (Nimby) mindset. While concerns about noise and disruption are valid, especially in dense urban settings, are we sometimes too quick to shut down what feels unfamiliar or inconvenient?

We applaud efforts to promote active ageing and intergenerational bonding. Yet when seniors find joy in rallying on a court, we tell them to be quiet, or go elsewhere. We say we want more community activity, but only if it doesn’t happen near us.

Are we sending mixed signals?

Of course, balance is needed. Noise control, designated hours, or purpose-built courts may help. But beyond logistics, perhaps the bigger challenge is one of mindset.

Can we learn to embrace a little more messiness in our communities? A bit more noise, in exchange for a lot more life?

Instead of asking, “How can we stop this from happening near me?”, perhaps we could ask: “How can we live better together?”

As Singapore continues to grow and age, such tensions will only rise. Be it pickleball, street performances, or playground activities past sunset, we must decide what kind of community we want to be.

So the next time you hear a paddle strike a ball, ask yourself: Is that a disturbing noise, or the sound of connection?

Delane Lim