Malaysia Badminton: New Chief Faces Pressure to Deliver Olympic Gold
KUALA LUMPUR – The incoming president of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is under pressure to produce world champions and finally secure Malaysia’s elusive olympic gold medal, according to former badminton star Datuk Rashid Sidek.
Stepping into Big Shoes: The Challenge Ahead
Sidek emphasized the progress made under the outgoing BAM president, Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria, and stressed the need for the new leader to elevate the sport even further.
“There needs to be a review to determine whether existing programmes are still relevant,” Sidek said. “If they are unlikely to go far, then change them.”
Norza’s Legacy: A Foundation for Future Success
Mohamad Norza’s two-term presidency saw significant achievements, including the success of Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, who became Malaysia’s first badminton world champions in 2022. The pair also secured a bronze medal at the tokyo 2020 Olympics. Norza was named BAM’s honorary life president after stepping down in August 2023.
Tengku Zafrul Nominated as President
Datuk Seri tengku zafrul Tengku abdul Aziz, the current Investment, Trade and Industry Minister, has been nominated as president for the 2025-2029 term. The election is scheduled for May 10 during BAM’s annual general meeting.
what specific changes does Datuk Rashid Sidek suggest the new BAM president should consider implementing to improve Malaysia’s badminton performance?
Malaysia Badminton: New Chief Faces Pressure to Deliver Olympic Gold
KUALA LUMPUR – The incoming president of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is under pressure to produce world champions and finally secure Malaysia’s elusive olympic gold medal, according to former badminton star Datuk Rashid Sidek.
Stepping into Big Shoes: The Challenge Ahead
Sidek emphasized the progress made under the outgoing BAM president, Tan Sri mohamad Norza Zakaria, and stressed the need for the new leader to elevate the sport even further.
“There needs to be a review to determine whether existing programmes are still relevant,” Sidek said. “If they are unlikely to go far, then change them.”
Norza’s Legacy: A foundation for Future Success
Mohamad Norza’s two-term presidency saw significant achievements, including the success of Aaron Chia and Soh wooi Yik, who became Malaysia’s first badminton world champions in 2022. The pair also secured a bronze medal at the tokyo 2020 Olympics.Norza was named BAM’s honorary life president after stepping down in August 2023.
Tengku Zafrul Nominated as President
Datuk Seri tengku zafrul tengku abdul Aziz, the current Investment, Trade and Industry Minister, has been nominated as president for the 2025-2029 term. The election is scheduled for May 10 during BAM’s annual general meeting.
Q&A: Decoding the Malaysian Badminton Challenge
- Who is the new BAM president nominee?
- Datuk Seri tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, the current Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister.
- What is the main expectation for the new president?
- To deliver Malaysia’s first olympic gold medal in badminton and continue producing world champions.
- what were the key achievements under the outgoing president,Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria?
- Malaysia won its first badminton world championship title (Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik in 2022) and a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
- What does Datuk Rashid Sidek suggest the new president should do?
- Review existing training programs and make necessary changes if they are not producing the desired results.
- when will the new president be officially elected?
- May 10, 2025, during BAM’s annual general meeting.
- Fun Fact:
- Badminton is one of Malaysia’s most beloved sports, with a huge following. Can the new president translate this passion into Olympic glory?
- Actionable Advice:
- Stay tuned for updates on the new president’s initiatives and how they will impact Malaysia’s badminton prospects. Support the sport by watching matches and cheering on the players!
With high expectations and a legacy to build upon, the incoming BAM president’s success will shape the future of Malaysian badminton. The quest for Olympic gold is on!