PETALING JAYA: National singles coaching director Kenneth Jonassen believes Salim Samion’s appointment can strengthen the national junior set-up and help develop the next generation of players.
Salim, who officially began his duties on last Friday, has been entrusted with the national junior girls’ singles squad, working alongside Aaron Lee Inbaraj and Sylvia Kavita Kumares.
Jonassen hopes Salim can bring the experience he gained during his five years in Thailand, where he coached several top players including Supanida Katethong, into the national set-up.
“Having him here is important because of the experience he brings. He has been part of different systems, worked with different cultures and also developed players in successful environments,” said Jonassen.
“I’m happy for him to bring what he has learned into our system. Of course, we already have our structure here, but we will continue discussing the process moving forward.
“I’m very positive about this and really pleased to have him as part of the team.”
After retiring in 2002, Salim moved into coaching and spent the next 20 years working overseas before returning to Malaysia.
The 44-year-old had also coached in several European countries, including Finland, Ukraine and Denmark.
At the same time, Jonassen stressed that Salim’s appointment was not solely aimed at preparing the team for the World Junior Championships in Egypt this October.
Instead, he wants the former student of the legendary Datuk Misbun Sidek to focus on strengthening the players’ foundation so they can continue progressing smoothly into the senior ranks.
“It is not specifically for one tournament. It is more about strengthening our foundation and following the pathway plan we have for players as they move through the TID (talent identification) process,” said Jonassen.
