PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s independent badminton scene has grown into a more supportive and structured environment compared to the past, according to former women’s doubles shuttler Vivian Hoo, as her younger brother Hoo Pang Ron takes the same path she once did.
Mixed doubles shuttler Pang Ron left the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) after spending 10 years with the national set-up, a move Vivian made in 2021 before retiring from the sport in January last year.
Vivian, 36, said the landscape for independent shuttlers has evolved since her first days stepping outside the national set-up, as there are stronger networks and a sense of community in place.
She said the growing pool of players outside BAM has created a more stable environment, where shuttlers are able to rely on each other.
“If you compare to how things were even a few years ago, it’s very different. There is so much more support and groups of independent players,” said Vivian.
After leaving BAM and partnering with Lim Chiew Sien, Vivian understands the demands of going independent and has been guiding her brother through his transition.
“I’ve been through this before, so I know that it’s not easy being an independent player. Almost everything needs to be managed by yourself,” said the three-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist.
The 28-year-old Pang Ron played his final match under the national setup with teammate Cheng Su Yin at the Asian Championships in Ningbo, China.
Pang Ron has formed a new partnership with Lai Pei Jing for the Malaysian Masters from May 19-May 24.
