KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 21 – The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) showed no mercy when the national badminton body handed Lee Zii Jia a two-year ban when the top national shuttler decided to turn professional.
It was a double blow for Malaysian badminton when two-time junior champion Goh Jin Wei was also handed a two-year ban when she quit the BAM and later joined KLRC as a professional.
This did not go down well with the BAM after Jin Wei had voiced her intention to return to the national team.
For Zii Jia, it is certainly not the end of his career. Neither it is for Jin Wei as they have other avenues to follow their professional career.
However, the BAM has failed to look into other grouses that has plagued the national body. BAM must take stock of this as it is taking a serious toll on the national players due to several factors.
Without doubt it is clear that ”politics” has rocked the BAM and it is not going this flame is not likely to smother after BAM deputy president Datuk Seri Jahaberdeen Yunoos revealed the verdict on Friday following a council meeting days earlier.
Sports politics seem to have gained a strong foothold not only BAM but also in several other national associations.
Many did not expect the harsh verdict as Malaysian shuttlers have been struggling of late. But who cares as long as there is money to be made by of the those who run in the BAM.
If one is take a hard look at these ”politicians” in sports, they do not have national pride as long as they ride on the motto “Make Hay while the Sun Shines”.
If one is take a hard look at these ”politicians” in sports, they do not have national pride as long as they ride on the motto “Make Hay while the Sun Shines”.
About The Author
