KUALA LUMPUR – Singles coaching director for the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), Kenneth Jonassen, has not confirmed any specific candidates but has acknowledged that former international player Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin is a noteworthy option in the search for a new head coach for the women’s singles team.
While Jonassen refrained from naming Iskandar as the leading candidate, he recognised the 34-year-old’s extensive experience and noted that he would enhance the national coaching team if the circumstances were favorable.
“We are still in the process. I hope to provide more updates soon,” Jonassen said regarding the vacancy left by former head coach Jeffer Rosobin, who resigned in February.
“It’s mid-year, which means many coaches are still under contract. Timing is crucial.”
When asked directly about Iskandar, who is currently under contract with Badminton Ireland until 2028, Jonassen responded, “I can’t confirm, but he’s certainly a good topic. He’s an experienced coach and would definitely be a valuable addition to our team.”
BAM had reached out to Iskandar earlier this year, and he confirmed this during the Malaysia Masters last month.
Speculation about his potential return has increased recently, especially after an Instagram post showed him with his family in Malaysia and mentioning a new home purchase.
Jonassen emphasised that while BAM is actively seeking to strengthen its coaching staff, the right candidate for the women’s singles team must not only have experience but also fit into the broader system BAM is developing.
“The specific needs for the women’s singles depend on the candidate we choose,” Jonassen explained.
“But my goal is to build one cohesive team from seniors to juniors. Whoever comes on board must align with that vision.”
He also highlighted the importance of stability within the women’s singles department, which has experienced several head coach changes in recent years.
“Stability is essential. It allows us to implement a proper long-term plan. The new coach must share our objectives,” he stated.
According to Jonassen, modern women’s singles badminton is increasingly demanding in terms of physicality and tactics, and the Malaysian team needs to adapt swiftly.
“Currently, the top players in the world are very tactical. They excel at creating their own points and countering effectively. These are skills we need to focus on in our daily training,” he said.
“We must prepare not just for our current level but for where we aspire to be. Our practice should reflect what is required at the highest level. I know we’re not there yet, but that’s our goal.”
For now, the women’s singles team is being managed by Misbun Ramdan under Jonassen’s oversight, while BAM continues to search for the right long-term candidate, with Iskandar still appearing to be a strong possibility. – June 11, 2025