After 60 years, BAM cast net wider with Idris’ Pemandu

PETALING JAYA: Finally, the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) will be making big changes at all levels of their administration.

In a strategic collaboration with Pemandu Associates, the BAM aim to put Malaysia as one the top three nations in the sport before the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

In the world team ranking, Malaysia are in sixth with China at the top, followed by South Korea, Japan, Indonesia and India.

The private consulting firm with a proven track record of assisting government and private-sector businesses achieve success, will enhance the BAM’s operations, strengthen the local badminton ecosystem, and fast-track development.

To achieve this, Pemandu Associates will conduct a thorough review of the BAM’s core operational areas, including the technical department, player development and management, financial management, governance, and performance management.

Pemandu Associates president and chairman Datuk Seri Idris Jala said after 60 years of producing legendary players, it was time for the BAM to uncover new ways to evolve and accelerate their progress.

“Our methodology aims to bring clarity to accelerate change and a thorough transformation process is crucial to achieving three major wins for all parties,” said Idris during the partnership announcement at the Academy Badmin–ton Malaysia (ABM) yesterday. The three wins include consistently producing world champions out of their backyard, ensuring financial sustainability to continue the mission, and enhancing badminton as a financially rewarding sport for their athletes.

BAM president Tan Sri Norza Zakaria said the transformation of the governing body was needed to avoid the risk of falling behind compared to other countries.

“While we have had successes in the past, the rapidly evolving landscape of badminton demands that we adapt, innovate, and transform to overcome emerging challenges,” said Norza, who is also the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) president.

“If we do not embrace this change and proactively pursue transformation, we risk falling behind and losing our position among the world’s top badminton nations.’’

As Norza prepares to leave the BAM after the Paris Olympics, he said the partnership with Pemandu Associates was to equip the national body to face the many challenges in the coming years, especially leading up to major BWF competitions and the LA Olympics.

“The outcome of this collaboration will define a clear path forward for BAM, fostering long-term sustainability.

“This legacy project will serve as a template for future BAM administrations to follow and build upon,” he added.