KUALA LUMPUR — When it comes to coaching, former international Ameer Amri Zainuddin believes his elder brother, Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin, is the missing piece in Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) coaching director Kenneth Jonassen’s puzzle.
Speaking to Scoop today, Ameer acknowledged recent reports linking Iskandar—currently with Badminton Ireland—to a return to the national singles coaching setup.
“As his brother, and on behalf of our family, I can say that we would all love to have him back. Our parents are getting older, so of course we’d like him to be home again.
“I also truly believe that he is the perfect fit for Kenneth’s vision. My brother brings the best of both worlds—experience as a former national shuttler, and now as a coach with a European background.
“That said, if he does decide to return, it won’t be an easy decision. The Irish singles players are doing well under him, and I’m sure they’re comfortable with his coaching.
“But that’s the life of a coach. We can’t stay in one place for too long. Sometimes, when a better offer comes along, it’s time to move on,” said Ameer, who is currently coaching Malaysia’s top independent doubles players, including world No.1 men’s pair Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin Rumsani, and mixed pair Goh Soon Huat and Shevon Lai.
Last week, Scoop reported that Iskandar—runner-up at the 2016 Malaysia Masters—is expected to rejoin the national setup following positive discussions with BAM.
Today, an individual familiar with the matter confirmed that Iskandar is set to take up the coaching role, although he will need a couple of months to settle formalities in Dublin.
It remains unclear whether he will directly replace former women’s singles head coach Jeffer Rosobin, who left BAM in February.
Ameer also confirmed that Iskandar’s wife and children are currently back in Malaysia. — June 23, 2025