KUALA LUMPUR – National shuttlers who prematurely terminate their contracts to turn independent will still face the prospect of suspension, as the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) has confirmed its safeguarding clauses remain firmly in place.
The national body’s new president, Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, affirmed that the existing contractual terms, designed to protect BAM’s long-term investment in its players, will be maintained.
Speaking after chairing his first council meeting, 100 days after his appointment, Tengku Zafrul was asked if the clauses—which came under the spotlight during Lee Zii Jia’s departure in 2022—were still active. He responded: "Yes, it's there."
While he noted that his new strategic plan, 'Tangkis 2030', includes a review to create a "structured policy for athletes' contracts," the fundamental principle of protecting the association's investment is not up for negotiation.
This stance echoes recent comments made by BAM deputy president II, Datuk Seri Jahaberdeen Mohamed Yunoos, who explained the rationale behind the stringent terms on Scoop's Sport Check podcast recently.
Jahaberdeen stressed that the clauses are not designed to be punitive but are crucial for the sustainability of the national programme.
The Lee Zii Jia episode serves as the most prominent example of this policy in action. When the then-All England champion chose to leave the national setup, he was handed an initial two-year suspension for breaching his agreement, a decision that was later appealed and resolved.
At the time, Jahaberdeen described the move as a "message to all players about the seriousness of their commitment."
The complexity of these contracts, which cover everything from performance targets to sponsorship rights, was also understood to be a key factor in the protracted seven-month negotiations before women’s doubles pair Pearly Tan and M. Thinaah signed their new deals with BAM in July.
With Tengku Zafrul’s confirmation, the message from the new leadership is clear: while player welfare and development are central to their new vision, the contractual obligations that underpin the national system will continue to be strictly enforced to ensure the pipeline of talent for Malaysia remains secure. - August 16, 2025
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