PETALING JAYA: Malaysia's mixed doubles head coach Nova Widianto will leave the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) on Friday (July 31), bringing his three-year stint with the national body to an end.
BAM announced Nova's departure in a statement on Thursday (July 30) but did not disclose the reason, saying only that the Indonesian would be returning home.
Nova, who joined BAM in 2023, played a key role in strengthening Malaysia's mixed doubles department during his tenure.
His biggest achievement came last year when he guided Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei to Malaysia's first-ever mixed doubles world title at the World Championships in Paris.
BAM president Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz thanked Nova for his contributions during his time with the national team
"Coach Nova has served Malaysian badminton with dedication and professionalism, and his contribution to the development of our mixed doubles programme has been significant.
"The historic world title won by Tang Jie and Ee Wei was a proud moment for Malaysian badminton and an important milestone during his tenure.
"On behalf of BAM, I thank Coach Nova for his service and wish him and his family every success and happiness as they begin their next chapter in Indonesia," said Tengku Zafrul.
Nova, meanwhile, said he was grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Malaysian badminton family and thanked BAM for its support throughout his time with the national team.
"I would like to thank BAM for giving me the opportunity to be part of the Malaysian badminton family.
"It has been a privilege to work with the players, coaches and support staff, and I am grateful for the support I have received throughout my time in Malaysia. I wish everyone at BAM continued success in the future," said Nova.
