KUALA LUMPUR – Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) president Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz has stressed that reputation alone is no longer enough in elite badminton, insisting that consistent performances are now the true benchmark of success on the international stage.
In a statement posted on X, Tengku Zafrul admitted that the results delivered by Malaysia’s players at the Malaysia Masters 2026 fell short of expectations despite the tremendous backing from home supporters throughout the tournament at Unifi Arena.
He described the atmosphere inside the arena as exceptional, with packed stands and relentless support reflecting badminton’s enduring status as one of the country’s most cherished sports.
“The support from the fans was extraordinary. The stadium was full and the cheers never stopped. That is our strength,” he said.
However, Tengku Zafrul said the national badminton fraternity must be honest in assessing the team’s current standard, noting that performances on court have yet to match the level of support shown by Malaysian fans.
He added that excuses could no longer be accepted at the highest level of competition, urging players and officials to refocus on the fundamentals needed to succeed consistently at world-class tournaments.
“At this level, excuses are no longer enough. We must return to the basics — discipline, consistency and the mentality to win on the biggest stage,” he said.
Tengku Zafrul also said that BAM would introduce several improvements, including refining its training approach and strengthening preparations ahead of major competitions.
According to him, the responsibility of raising Malaysia’s standards must be shared collectively by players, coaches and management to ensure the country remains competitive against the world’s leading badminton nations.
“In elite sport, reputation alone is not enough. Performances must be consistent,” he added.
Malaysia endured a disappointing campaign at the tournament, with none of BAM’s representatives reaching the final after men’s doubles pairs Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik and Arif Junaidi-Yap Roy King were knocked out in the semi-finals on Saturday.
The result was a sharp contrast to last year’s edition, when Aaron-Wooi Yik and Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun both reached the final, with Wei Chong-Kai Wun eventually emerging as champions.
Independent pair Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani were Malaysia’s best performers this year after finishing runners-up in the men’s doubles final on Sunday. - May 25, 2026
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