Kian Meng-Pei Jing set for more setbacks but they’re not throwing in the towel

Another early exit: Tan Kian Meng (right) and Lai Pei Jing (left) in action against South Korea’s Kim Won-ho-Jeong Na-eun in the first round. The Malaysians lost 11-21, 16-21. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: Experiencing a loss of sponsorships can be demoralising for independent shuttlers, but Tan Kian Meng-Lai Pei Jing are determined not to allow that to be a stumbling block to keep their professional career going.

Kian Meng-Pei Jing, who started last season with a No. 5 world ranking, had a disappointing year after early-round exits in 20 out of 23 tournaments that they participated in.