KUALA LUMPUR – The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is holding its breath as top officials express hope that president Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria will rethink his decision to step down from his post at the end of the month.
Speaking to Scoop, BAM secretary-general Datuk Kenny Goh highlighted Norza’s dynamic leadership, emphasising the positive impact it has on the organisation.
“Tan Sri Norza is a dynamic and versatile president, with excellent knowledge of leadership and management. If he decides to reconsider, it would be good for BAM.
“However, the ultimate decision lies with the council. I think let’s allow him to bring this up on Saturday,” said Kenny.
Earlier, Norza revealed to Scoop that he plans to present his possible change of heart at an upcoming council meeting.
“I will consider it until after Paris 2024, as I respect the minister, and we work well together,” he told Scoop via WhatsApp.
His reaction comes after Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh urged him to stay on as BAM president.
“The Paris Olympics are just months away and badminton forms the majority block of participating athletes in the Road To Gold set-up.
“We need focus and minimised disruption during such crucial preparation time,” said the Segambut MP via X (formerly Twitter).
Norza, who also serves as Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) president, co-chairs the RTG programme with Hannah.
Initially planning to step down after the Paris Olympics in August of next year, Norza expedited his departure after securing a suitable successor.
In September, Scoop broke the news that Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz would take over at BAM, a move later confirmed by Norza in October. – December 12, 2023