JOHOR and Perak’s badminton squads are making their intentions clear, signalling their bid for dominance at Sukma starting today at the Sibu Indoor Stadium.
Johor team manager, Azuan Mohd Ali, is confident that his mix of BAM development players and state athletes are ready to shine, with expectations high for several categories.
“We’re banking on strong performances in the mixed doubles and men’s doubles, where we believe our players have the edge. For the men’s singles, we’re hopeful of a podium finish, though which medal exactly we can’t say for sure yet.
“Our preparations have been two years in the making, and I’m proud to say the team are primed and ready to compete,” said Azuan
In 2022 Sukma, Johor’s Ng Tze Yong lived up to his billing to clinch the men’s singles gold by defeating Federal Territory’s Leong Jun Hao.
This time, they are banking on his brother Tze Chian and Wee Yee Hern.
Perak team manager, Zambri Bahari, meanwhile was equally optimistic, citing his squad’s valuable experience from the last Sukma as a potential game-changer.
“Our focus is on the men’s singles and women’s doubles categories. The introduction of the mixed team event this year adds an exciting twist, and I think it’s anyone’s game.
“Our main hope lies with Eogene Ewe in the men’s singles. As a member of the BAM development squad, he’s got the skills to bring home a medal for Perak,” he said.
At the last edition Perak fired blank, but they’re determined to change that this time.
Six gold medals are up for grabs in badminton in this edition of the games. — Bernama
