KUALA LUMPUR – Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh believes Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz is the right person to lead the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) as its president.
Her remarks follow the Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister’s recent confirmation that he is looking forward to leading BAM if elected in May, succeeding Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria.
Speaking at a press conference today, Hannah said Tengku Zafrul’s leadership could help BAM secure more funding in the coming years.
“Previously, the Cabinet decided that ministers should not be involved in managing national sports associations (NSAs), as the role of an NSA president demands significant time and commitment.
“However, Tengku Zafrul’s term as a senator ends this year, and even our Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has given his approval.
“His nomination came directly from BAM through internal discussions, as they need a candidate capable of securing substantial funding. BAM requires the largest budget among all NSAs to operate.
“I also read a report in which Datuk Lee Chong Wei expressed full support for Tengku Zafrul, and I wish him all the best. Personally, I believe he is the right person to lead BAM if elected.
“Since he will no longer hold a ministerial role next year, I believe he will be able to fully dedicate himself to the position,” she said at the launch of Taska Team MAS at the National Sports Institute today.
Taska Team MAS, a childcare initiative by KBS with a budget of RM240,000, aims to enhance welfare support for athletes, coaches, and staff at KL Sports City.
Meanwhile, Hannah said that KBS had no involvement in BAM’s nomination of Tengku Zafrul.
“We have no say in the nomination process, as NSAs handle this themselves. Even in the recent Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) elections, we had no involvement, and everything followed FAM’s constitution,” she added.
In September 2023, Scoop reported that Tengku Zafrul was the frontrunner for the position. However, Norza later opted to stay on to resolve outstanding matters before stepping down.
The BAM presidency carries a four-year term before going back to the ballot box. – March 27, 2025