KUALA LUMPUR – The Badminton Association of Malaysia’s (BAM) efforts to strengthen its grassroots programme could soon receive a boost, with the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) considering the use of Stadium Juara in Bukit Kiara as an additional training venue.
Youth and Sports Minister Mohammed Taufiq Johari said the proposal is being studied following BAM’s request to utilise the facility, which is located near the Badminton Academy of Malaysia (ABM).
He noted that the close proximity between Stadium Juara and ABM makes it a practical option that could ease logistics and reduce travel time for players and coaches.
“This matter was raised when BAM visited my office about two weeks ago. In my view, Stadium Juara is very suitable because of its proximity to ABM.
“It will make transportation arrangements easier while also helping athletes save time travelling between training centres,” he said after a working visit to ABM in Bukit Kiara today.
During the visit, Dr Taufiq toured the academy’s training facilities and met members of the national and junior squads currently undergoing training.
He added that KBS has asked Perbadanan Stadium Malaysia (PSM) to hold further discussions with the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) to examine the feasibility of the proposal.
“Insya-Allah, after Hari Raya, we will look at the best decision that can be made to make it easier for athletes and coaches to train there,” he said.
Dr Taufiq also praised the dedication shown by players and coaches who continue their training sessions during the fasting month, noting the strong commitment displayed by Muslim athletes despite observing the fast.
Meanwhile, BAM deputy president V. Subramaniam confirmed that BAM president Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz had appealed to KBS for additional training courts to address the shortage currently faced by junior players at ABM.
He explained that the existing courts are heavily utilised by the senior national squad throughout the day, leaving limited training opportunities for younger players.
“At the moment, we are short of courts, especially for the juniors. The courts at the academy are mainly used by the senior squad from morning until afternoon, so it limits the time available for the younger players to train,” he said.
“If the proposal goes through, it will be very convenient, as the hostel, the academy and Stadium Juara are all located next to each other.
“Everything would be centred in one area, which will help both players and coaches,” he said.
Subramaniam also expressed appreciation to the minister for visiting the academy and taking the time to understand the association’s needs.
“We are thankful that the minister, Dr Taufiq, was quick to understand the situation. On behalf of our president, Tengku Zafrul, and the association, we would like to thank him for visiting and listening to our concerns,” he said.
It was previously reported that Tengku Zafrul unveiled BAM’s comprehensive strategic plan, Tangkis 2030, last year, which aims to recruit players from a much younger age.
The initiative represents a major policy shift, as BAM had previously only inducted players aged 16 and above. Expanding training courts for junior players also forms a key component of the Tangkis 2030 agenda. – March 16, 2026