PETALING JAYA: Chang Kim Wai’s return to the national set-up could not have come at a better time as his presence is set to ease the burden on the men’s doubles department, which has been stretched thin with 22 senior shuttlers under just two coaches.
The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) confirmed the appointment of the experienced former national player Kim Wai as assistant coach to Indonesian legend Herry Iman Pierngadi yesterday.
Kim Wai, who starts next week, is eager to contribute to producing more world-class pairs for Malaysia and reunite with familiar faces at BAM, including coaching director Rexy Mainaky.
“To be honest, I was surprised but happy to be given this responsibility. It’s a great opportunity for me to work again with my former colleagues at BAM,” said Kim Wai, who was aware of the manpower shortage since his interview.
His inclusion is expected to bring balance to the national men’s doubles training set-up, which currently also includes assistant coach Muhammad Miftakh.
“I was informed earlier that the men’s doubles department were looking for another coach as they were short on manpower. With so many players and frequent international tournaments, it has been difficult for Herry and Miftakh to provide full guidance.
“So, they felt that having an additional coach would not only help with training sessions but also in guiding players during overseas competitions,” said Kim Wai when contacted.
During his playing days, Kim Wai enjoyed a successful career, winning a silver medal with Choong Tan Fook at the 2002 Manchester Commonwealth Games and another silver with Chew Choon Eng at the 2003 SEA Games in Ho Chi Minh City.
After retiring, he began his coaching career at the Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) before being promoted to the elite squad, where he served until leaving BAM in 2017.
During his time at BJSS, he also coached several players who went on to represent Malaysia at the highest level, including Aaron Chia, Soh Wooi Yik and Leong Jun Hao.
