PETALING JAYA: The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) will tighten their rules and regulations for players who wish to leave the national body in the future.
BAM performance committee chairman, Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei, explained that the move is aimed at preventing players from leaving the national squad at will.
According to Chong Wei, the proposal has been presented to the president, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abd Aziz, and will be finalised at the next Council meeting.
Chong Wei added that while these rules are already included in players’ contracts, certain terms and regulations still need to be refined.
He stressed that it is unfair for any player to act this way after BAM have invested heavily in their development with the hope that they would become a key asset for the country in the future.
“We want to try to prevent this from happening. For example, if a player joined BAM at 13 years old and is now 20 to 22 and has already made a name for themselves, BAM would have invested a lot in their career. If they feel they have a name now, they might want to leave the national squad,” said Chong Wei.
“If a player feels something is lacking at BAM, the president will hear their request and try to provide the best support. From my own observation, the facilities have improved significantly since I left BAM previously.
“Players cannot leave BAM at will, there is a procedure. We will announce the rules and regulations in due course.’’
However, Chong Wei did not elaborate on the consequences but they could be some form of penalty or sanctions.
At the same time, Chong Wei also stressed that the facilities currently available at the Academy Badminton Malaysia in Bukit Kiara are world class, ranging from expertise and support staff to sports science assistance.
As such, he said the players should make full use of their time in the national squad to reach their best level.
“Outsiders often say BAM are not good and that there are many problems. But when I stepped into management, I saw that the players are provided with very good facilities. I can say they are world class.
“Even if their performances are not yet at a world-class level, at least from BAM’s side we have given them the best support. Sometimes I even find myself wondering what else we can provide to help them reach the highest level,” he added.
