PETALING JAYA: Expect more players to graduate into future badminton stars under the guidance of former great Yong Hock Kin.
The Yong Hock Kin Badminton Academy has formalised a partnership with Mahsa University, aiming to promote structured training and talent development through university-based programmes.
Former world No. 2 men’s singles shuttler Hock Kin said reaching the elite level starts at the grassroots, and he hopes aspiring shuttlers will fully benefit from the new pathway.
“Strong sporting ecosystems begin with grassroots development and clear pathways for athletes to progress," said Hock Kin.
"By working with Mahsa University, we aim to support students at different stages of their journey, from fundamental training to higher-performance opportunities, within a structured and supportive environment."
The collaboration will see the academy and university jointly organise training clinics, coaching programmes, and talent development activities, which started with a one-day clinic held on Saturday at the university.
The academy, based at the Batu Berendam Sports Complex in Melaka, has produced some of the country’s top players, including men's doubles player Aaron Chia, Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun, and mixed doubles shuttler Toh Ee Wei.
Academy director Pang Cheh Ling hopes more corporate partnerships will come on board, which would also ease the burden on Hock Kin, who has been used to being a one-man show at the academy.
"From strength and conditioning, to the gym, and everything in between, it's all handled by Hock Kin at the academy," said Cheh Ling.
"More help from corporate entities will help develop the sport and also allow Hock Kin to just be a coach.
"Hopefully, with help from external parties, we can have a better coaching environment for the next generation."
Meanwhile, Mahsa's pro vice-chancellor, associate professor Dr Veronica Chua, added that the collaboration reflects the university’s commitment to integrating education with real-world sporting practice.
"By working closely with industry partners, we aim to provide students with meaningful exposure to structured training environments that support both personal development and sporting excellence," she said.
