PETALING JAYA: Naan, chapati, spicy curries and teh tarik are set to become Datuk Misbun Sidek’s regular fare when he breaks fast in Thiruthangal, Tamil Nadu, during Ramadan beginning today.
The holy month, which follows closely after the Chinese New Year period, will not slow the 66-year-old down as he will continue to put in long hours at the Hatsun Badminton Centre, about 70km from Madurai.
Misbun has quickly settled into his first coaching stint abroad over the past two weeks and is relishing both the environment and the challenge.
“They are treating me very well here. There’s a cafeteria, and some of the staff have worked in Malaysia before, so they know what I like,” said Misbun.
“I just have to ask. Usually, it’s naan, chapati and tosai. They even have mee goreng!”
More than the food, Misbun has been impressed by the respect shown to him and the eagerness displayed by players and coaches, led by head coach Rajinikanth.
“They show a lot of respect and I appreciate their humility. The players are eager to learn,” he said.
Known for his no-nonsense approach, Misbun has already increased the training volume at the centre – without complaints from the players.
“I coach from the heart, not by notes. I’m doing exactly what I did back home and that is sharing everything I know about the game,” he said.
“The culture may be different, but the passion is the same. Some of my methods are out of the box for them, but they are embracing it.”
Training now starts as early as 5am, with sessions doubled from once to twice daily.
The demanding routine has left some players battling cramps and changing multiple sweat-soaked shirts, yet attendance and enthusiasm remain high.
“They were shocked to see me at the court even before 5am. Some said they had never suffered cramps before,” Misbun added with a laugh.
“In the afternoons we vary things – sometimes gym work, sometimes the pool. They usually don’t train on Sundays, but we’ve adjusted that.”
He also noted that many of the players possess strong physical attributes suited to the modern game.
“Most of them are tall, like Hafiz (Hashim) and (Lee) Zii Jia. They have good physique for badminton.”
Misbun praised the centre’s facilities, which cater to about 100 players with secure accommodation, recovery areas and even spaces to unwind.
“Some do stay out. Inside, they even have a conference hall, and comfortable space to relax and watch movies after a tiring day and they do play chess here too,” he said.
Will Misbun ease off during Ramadan? Not a chance.
“It will be the same for me. I will observe the fasting month, but the training intensity will remain. I’m used to this,” said Misbun, who also spent time with centre owner R.G. Chandramogan on Sunday.
