Good job: Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei (centre) congratulating Thailand’s Kunlavut Vitidsarn at the Malaysian Open on Jan 11.
PETALING JAYA: Lee Chong Wei has brought his trademark discipline and meticulous planning into his new role at the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) and just three months in, there are already signs of progress.
Malaysia enjoyed a rare triple-title haul at the Indonesian Masters in Jakarta on Sunday, with Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah (women’s doubles), Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei (mixed doubles) and professionals Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani (men’s doubles) all striking it right.
Datuk Seri Lee Chong WeiSze Fei-Izzuddin have been sparring with national players several times a week under a plan initiated by Chong Wei, who has also extended invitations to other professionals, including Lee Zii Jia to train with BAM.
Chong Wei said early planning was key and expressed satisfaction that singles coaching director Kenneth Jonassen and doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky were aligned with his vision.
“I’ve spoken to the coaches and players, and we are planning everything early so that both national and professional players will be prepared, especially for team events,” said Chong Wei.
“We’ve invited all professional players to spar with BAM players in preparation for the Thomas Cup Finals in April. In fact, we are already looking at going early to Denmark for training.
“We are also planning early training in Japan before the Asian Games in September.”
Chong Wei has also made it compulsory for all players, except those married, to stay in the hostel, stressing that discipline remains a cornerstone of high performance.
“Players in the hostel have to be in by 10.30pm, but I also understand that we cannot have a fully regimented system,” he said.
“Players need time to relax and unwind. We are planning to set up an entertainment area within the hostel, including karaoke, a pool table and provide better internet coverage.”
He credited both players and coaches for the strong showing in Indonesia.
“It’s rare for Malaysia to win three titles in a tournament, and I commend everyone for their hard work,” said Chong Wei.
Malaysia last achieved the feat at the Super Series Finals (now World Tour Finals) in 2009, when Chong Wei himself, Wong Mew Choo (women’s singles), and Chin Ee Hui-Wong Pei Tty (women’s doubles) emerged champions.
They have also won four out of five titles at the Malaysian Open Grand Prix Gold in 2012.
Chong Wei, who serves in his current role on a voluntary basis without pay, reiterated that his focus is on creating the right environment for success.
“I’m here merely to support the coaches and players so they can compete without worries.
“I’m happy with our results at the Indonesian Masters, but it’s only a Super 500 tournament. We still haven’t won a Super 1000, and that will be one of our goals this year, along with several major tournaments.
“I hope our players can continue this good run,” added Chong Wei, who will now be focusing on the elite team’s preparation for the All-England in March.
