WHAT began three years ago as a fitness data-tracking tool has now evolved into a full-fledged sports tournament management app, making it easier for local organisers to run and manage competitions.
Developed in collaboration with the Penang State Sports Council, the Sports We Play app manages every aspect of a tournament — from registration, payments and scheduling, to match draws and live scoring across multiple sports.
“Previously, only international organisers such as the Badminton World Federation (BWF) had access to such systems. We wanted to level the playing field by giving local organisers the same tools,” said Sim Fong Hau, the app’s creator and company director.
Sim, a former national shuttler, said the app has already been adopted for school tournaments, government-backed championships, and even the Asia Tour of Pickleball, a fast-growing sport in Malaysia.
He explained that the platform was designed to reduce paperwork and increase transparency.
“Players can register online, parents can sign up their children, and fans can follow live scores directly on the app. Everything is automated and accessible,” he said.
A key highlight, he added, is its real-time booking system, which prevents double-bookings and enables users to secure courts based on location and availability.
“It works just like Grab. You choose your slot, and the system locks it in immediately,” Sim said.
The app cost over six figures to develop and now caters to users ranging in age from seven to 55.
“It has already achieved about 80% penetration among the local sports community.
“As a former player, I understand the challenges organisers and athletes face. Our aim is not only to improve tournament management but also to build an ecosystem that connects sports with tourism, events, and even food and beverage outlets,” he added.
Sim said the company is now working to expand the app’s features to include event ticketing and lifestyle activities, positioning it as a one-stop platform for sports and leisure.
Among those present during the briefing session were the company’s AI engineer Jeff Phoon, and applications engineer, Ezra Chee.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting