KUALA LUMPUR — Allegations of governance misconduct within the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) have raised serious concerns, with the potential to shake the very foundation of the local badminton ecosystem—especially if the claims against the governing body are proven true.
While several individuals have already been summoned by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to assist with the ongoing investigation, the stakes are high.
If the case reaches court and misconduct is confirmed, BAM could face severe consequences, including suspension from the Badminton World Federation (BWF).
Under Section 13.5 of the BWF Constitution, the BWF council, between general meetings, has the “power to suspend the membership of a member who, in the opinion of council, acts directly against the federation, its statutes, or its principles, purposes or objectives.”
This suspension is a temporary but impactful measure, and the decision lies solely with the BWF council.
The impact of such a suspension would be significant as BAM would lose the right to host major tournaments or any other events in the country.
Additionally, Malaysian players would be banned from participating in international competitions, severely limiting their opportunities on the global stage.
“If, and so long as, a member is suspended, such member shall be deprived of all rights of membership and shall not be eligible to participate in any playing event promoted or sanctioned by the federation or in any officially recognised international badminton fixture or attend general meetings,” stated Section 13.10 of the BWF Constitution.
To date, the BWF has suspended the memberships of Kenya, Morocco, Russia, and Belarus, highlighting the serious consequences of governance misconduct and non-compliance with the federation’s rules.
The BWF banned Russian and Belarusian players from international competitions in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, showing solidarity with Ukraine and protesting the actions of the Russian and Belarusian governments.
Kenya and Morocco were banned from participating in international badminton events due to governance violations and failure to adhere to the BWF’s rules and regulations.
A similar situation could arise for BAM if the BWF finds evidence of governance misconduct.
However, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki confirmed that the investigation is currently focused on a senior official within BAM, not the association as a whole.
Earlier, Scoop reported that a senior official of BAM is currently under investigation for receiving additional payments without board approval.
The case is being examined under Section 23 of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009, which addresses abuse of power for personal or associated gain. — December 4, 2024