KUALA LUMPUR: Recognising the crucial role of mental resilience in high-performance sports, the National Sports Institute (NSI) have assigned experienced sports psychologist Lim Jin Xuan to work closely with Malaysia’s national badminton team at the Academy Badminton Malaysia in Bukit Kiara.
NSI chief executive officer Dr. P. Vellapandian confirmed that Jin Xuan, who has a proven track record in elite sports, will focus on enhancing the players’ psychological strength.
She previously played a key role in the success of para powerlifter Bonnie Bunyau Gustin, who clinched gold at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, and Malaysia’s wushu team, who brought home one gold, six silver and four bronze medals at the 2023 World Championships in Texas.
Her appointment comes at the request of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).
The national body have highlighted the need for dedicated psychological support to help players cope with the immense pressure of international competition.
Jin Xuan had already officially begun her duties with the BAM on March 1.
“We have a full-time team working with BAM, including medical and sports science experts, with four personnel currently involved.
BAM have also requested a full-time psychologist because in sports, it’s not just about treating injuries.
“It’s about returning to peak performance. Athletes need both physical and psychological support to overcome challenges and stay competitive,” said Dr. Vellapandian.
Meanwhile, NSI medical specialist Dr. Jasmiza Khuzairi said they had given the green light to three players – singles shuttler Ng Tze Yong, men’s doubles ace Aaron Chia and women’s doubles player Pearly Tan – to compete in the Asian Championships from April 8-13 in Ningbo, China, after recovering from their injuries.
Tze Yong has been sidelined for a year due to a back injury, while Aaron sustained a right-hand injury that affected his performance in Europe recently. Pearly, on the other hand, suffered a right ankle sprain during the All-England two weeks ago.
“Based on the latest assessments and current progress, both Aaron and Pearly are not suffering from serious injuries,” said Dr Jasmiza.
“Aaron has resumed full training, while Pearly’s injury is not as severe as initially expected.
‘‘She is undergoing physiotherapy and is set to gradually return to on-court training this week.”
