KUALA LUMPUR – The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is seeking a “dedicated and loyal” national doubles head coach to replace the outgoing Tan Bin Shen.
Bin Shen’s contract expires on January 13, and he has chosen not to renew it. He is expected to join the Hong Kong Badminton Association.
BAM’s interim president, Datuk V. Subramaniam, confirmed that the governing body is in talks with several local and foreign coaches, with an announcement expected in the coming months.
“We have several candidates on the list. Discussions will be held to identify the most suitable coach.
“While we cannot disclose the number of coaches we are in talks with, we are engaging both local and foreign candidates.
“Our goal is to hire the best coach, one who is loyal and dedicated, as this is the most important quality for us.
“We’re not sure how long the process will take, but we plan to announce our decision within the next few months,” Subramaniam said after a sponsorship extension ceremony with 100Plus at Akademi Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara today.
Subramaniam emphasised that the new coach must be committed to developing players and elevating them to the next level.
At the same time, Subramaniam expressed that BAM is unfazed by the recent departures of several established coaches.
In addition to Bin Shen, BAM parted ways with his assistant, Poh Chai Boon. Former world champion Hendrawan also ended his 15-year tenure with BAM in October to join Indonesia’s PB Djarum club.
It is understood that Datuk Tey Seu Bock, who has been with BAM since 2002, is also exploring other opportunities and may leave.
“This happens everywhere. When individuals receive better offers, they move on,” said Subramaniam.
“It doesn’t mean BAM is not the right place. If that were the case, why would foreign coaches want to come here?
“Coaches sometimes want to gain new experiences. We are not worried about this; it is quite common,” Subramaniam added. — December 23, 2024