KUALA LUMPUR — The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is giving top women’s doubles pair Pearly Tan and M. Thinaah time to consider their future, but has assured that the matter will be resolved soon.
Speaking to the media today after the Malaysia Masters press conference at Akademi Badminton Malaysia (ABM), BAM acting president Datuk V. Subramaniam confirmed that the world number five duo have yet to decide whether to remain under the national body or turn professional.
Earlier this month, Scoop reported that Pearly and Thinaah were in discussions with external sponsors as they weigh up the option of going independent.
“There have been write-ups, and yes, it’s true – they haven’t signed the contracts yet, but discussions are ongoing. It’s just a matter of time, we’ll sort it out,” said Subramaniam.
Pressed further on when a decision is expected, he said:
“There’s no fixed deadline. We’re giving them the leeway to think things through. Sometimes they seek advice, and we’re allowing that. For now, they are still with us.”
It is understood that Pearly and Thinaah were offered new contracts earlier this year. However, speculation suggests they are seeking a pay increase to match BAM’s top earners – reportedly in the region of RM2 million annually.
Asked if BAM is pushing for the pair to remain within the national setup, Subramaniam said:
“That’s the whole point of investing in them from their junior days.
“A lot of money has been spent by BAM, and before that, by their respective states. In fact, BAM channels funds to the states to develop players. Once they reach this level, we continue to support them. It’s a significant investment.
“Our hope is that they stay, train hard, and deliver medals for the country. That’s what they’re meant to do. We’ve looked after them very well.”
Whether the pair will remain with BAM is still uncertain, but a decision is expected after the Sudirman Cup in Xiamen, China, later this month.
Separately, Subramaniam declined to comment on the possibility of reuniting mixed doubles pair Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei, who were split up last month.
When asked about their inclusion in the shortlist for the Road to Gold (RTG) programme for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, he said:
“As for Tang Jie and Ee Wei, there are no updates at the moment. The RTG decisions are made by the RTG committee, not us.”
For now, both players will continue to compete in tournaments with new partners – Chan Wen Tse for Tang Jie and Loo Bing Kun for Ee Wei – although they will reunite for the upcoming Sudirman Cup. – April 16, 2025