Talkback Tuesday: Malaysia's Future in Badminton

The Badminton Association of Malaysia is not a happy house with the latest news of Rashid Sidek’s resignation as coach last week. Just 3 years ago, his older brother Misbun Sidek, coach of our number one player Lee Chong Wei, left in a huff as well with no reason from BAM for his departure.

Chong Wei lamented the departures of both his coaches, citing problems within BAM’s management. In an article in The Star last week, Chong Wei says, “This is really sad. I may be the world No. 1 but I still need a coach. I know that the players make all the difference on the court but the coaches do play a part. They (the coaches) spend the most time with the players and understand us – our ups and downs.”

And while the issue of finding coaches plague the BAM, the bigger question is what are we doing to produce more world-class badminton players? In the 80s and 90s, we had powerhouse doubles in the form of Razif-Jalani Sidek and Soon Kit-Beng Kiang. We were spoiled for choice in the singles category with Misbun Sidek, Foo Kok Keong and Rashid Sidek. Every Malaysian was familiar with the Indonesia-Malaysia rivalry in badminton and tournaments like the All-England championships, Asian Games and the Thomas Cup were household names that filled our papers and TV screens.

The one win that is still etched in many Malaysians’ memories is the one that took place in 1992, 21 years ago. It was the Thomas Cup, it was held in KL and we faced our greatest rival - Indonesia. On a thrilling night that had everyone at the edge of their seats, we defeated Indonesia 3 - 2. Will Malaysia ever get to see a win that big again? Who else can we count on besides Lee Chong Wei?

Today on Talkback Tuesday, we’re asking: Who do we have to continue Malaysia’s badminton legacy when Lee Chong Wei decides to step down?