Sepak Takraw - The Origin of the Sport and Its Relevance in Malaysian Culture

Sepak Tawkraw is not just a game, it’s a way of life
– Ong Poh Seng, Former Malaysian Sepak Takraw Player

Malaysians are a passionate nation and with the slogan ‘Malaysia Boleh’ heard echoing throughout the country, these two poignant words vocally display the immense pride of its people.

However, they also equally encapsulate the nation’s belief in the country’s capabilities and competing on the world stage, whether it be through culture, food, nature, hospitality but most especially, through sport motivates Malaysians.

The most significant sport in Malaysia, in fact, is now considered to be Sepak Takraw - more recently referred to as its ‘national sport’.

Its humble roots trace back several centuries and grew from a pastime to evolve into a traditional kampung (village) game named ‘Sepak Raga’ (which literally translates as ‘Kick Rattan Ball’) before becoming known as ‘Sepak Takraw’ and realising its reputation on the international circuit in the modern world … but more about that later.

Sepak Takraw is deeply embedded in the cultural heritage of Malaysia and for those that play, it reflects the qualities of agility, community and skill - values that Malays aspire towards not just on the court but in daily life too.

The sport’s growth is a reason for it to remain close to their hearts and means that the love of and passion for it, identifies them as true Malaysians.

History of Sepak Takraw

The ball sport was established more firmly in Malaysia during the 20th Century when rules became standardized and it was given an official name that combined the Malay word ‘Sepak’ meaning kick and the Thai word ‘Takraw’ meaning woven ball - Sepak Takraw.

Given the sports growth in popularity, the website About Sepak Takraw informs us that “The Malaysian Sepak Raga Federation’ was founded at a conference held at the Community Hall in Penang, June 1960, with an inter-state competition being held two years later which led to Sepak Takraw officially becoming Malaysia’s national sport”.

It was in this year that the rules also became official and the foundation was renamed International Sepak Takraw Federation (ISTAF) which helped it become a recognised medal sport in the South East Asian (SEA) Games and Asian Games. To learn more about Sepak Takraw rules, visit Rulesofsport.com and read a full explanation, linked here.

The Iconic Ball of Sepak Takraw

“The Ball is Light - But the Game is Heavy” is a common saying amongst Sepak Takraw players meaning the rattan ball feels almost weightless, yet the acrobatics and intensity of the game demand incredible strength and skill.

The Sepak Takraw ball is equal in symbolism as the game itself. Traditionally handcrafted using rattan and expertly woven into a hollow sphere it should measure 42-44cm and weigh approximately 170-180 grams.

Modern balls are now constructed of a synthetic fibre for functionality and safety purposes but all balls used in the game of Sepak Takraw must meet international standards set by the International Sepak Takraw Federation (ISTAF).

The Game of Sepak Takraw

The game is played between two teams of usually three players on a court similar in size to that of a Badminton Court. The woven ball, whether it be rattan or synthetic, is kicked between the teams and the concept is to keep it up in the air using only feet, knees, chest and head - no hands!

The rules are long and complex but explained perfectly by Rulesofsport.com.

Sepak Takraw is as much a spectator sport as it is a team sport - watching the performance unfold and the player’s on-court agility is jaw dropping to the non-player.

Acrobatic skills, mid-air and backward flips, spectacular aerial kicks and somersaults are performed to see athletes ultimately land with incredible gymnastic precision.

It is not simply about scoring points, it is an exhibition of control and grace too! Kreedon.com explains why it is one of Asia’s most exciting sports here.

Inspiring Generations

To inspire a new generation of Malaysian Sepak Takraw players, the motivation of past and current players is a necessity. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has pledged his support for the establishment of a National Sepak Takraw Academy in Malaysia, recognising the future of the sport. He announced in The Malay Mail in June 2025, that it “has gained great recognition, not just locally but internationally.

Almost every village plays the sport, and it is deeply rooted in our culture. I support the proposal for a national academy and will ensure it becomes a reality.”

Online websites are also a great source of advocacy and inspiration for a next generation of players. A World of Sepak Takraw uses their online presence to promote ‘a world of Sepak Takraw’, to their international youth audience.

All Around This World is another site that offers an insight into the sport for youths all around the world to realise the true depth and excitement of Sepak Takraw (linked here).

Closer to home U-Mobile have partnered with Impact Malaysia to complete a vibrant, art mural inspired initiative at the outdoor Sepak Takraw courts at Spacerubix Puchong; enhancing and encouraging youth-centric community spaces and the love of the sport across Malaysia. Read more about this initiative here.

Sepak Takraw is also embedded into many national and international schools’ curricula, developing the skills and values associated with the sport into those of their student populations.

The International School of Kuala Lumpur (ISKL), based in the Ampang Hilir suburb of Kuala Lumpur offers a contemporary education with a strong emphasis on traditional values and uses sports including Sepak Takraw to motivate their students to try new things. Click here to read more.

The Future of Sepak Takraw

Since 1965 Sepak Takraw has participated in the South East Asian (SEA) Games and since 1990, the Asian Games. The governing body, ISTAF, are now working towards the sport meeting the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) criteria for inclusion in the Olympics.

Whilst it is hugely popular in South East Asia, it remains on the periphery of sports in the rest of the world but there are immense possibilities to catapult it onto the Olympic stage. If it continues to grow globally at the level it already is, there is no doubt that it will become a fully recognised and appreciated Olympic sport - watch this space!