BAM eyes RM30m grant to build depth in Malaysian badminton

The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is considering tapping a RM30 million sports matching grant scheme announced in the 2027 budget to strengthen tournament organisation and provide more exposure for back-up players.

BAM president Tengku Zafrul Aziz said more quality tournaments would give local players opportunities to face stronger opponents and gain experience before competing internationally. He said the grant initiative would create a more competitive domestic platform.

Building depth beyond established players

Tengku Zafrul said competitive exposure was important to overcome reliance on a handful of established star players and build a system to groom the next generation.

“For badminton, more quality tournaments mean more opportunities for local players to test their abilities, face stronger opponents and gain experience before competing on the international stage,” he said in a statement today.

“Our challenge is to ensure that when a champion retires, there are already back-up players ready to take their place. This requires consistent talent development, quality coaching and comprehensive sports science support,” he said.

Tengku Zafrul said BAM’s focus went beyond immediate success, to ensuring Malaysian badminton remained competitive for generations to come.

School funding needs a pathway

On developing young athletes, he said the increase in sports funding at school level was a positive step, but a strong development pathway was needed to ensure identified talent did not fall by the wayside.

SEA Games preparations remain a priority

Preparations for the national badminton squad for the 2027 SEA Games remained a priority.

The 2027 federal budget estimates tabled yesterday provide RM460 million for national sports development. They also provide RM240 million for preparations to host the 2027 SEA Games and Asean Para Games.