Relief for BAM chief

BA of Malaysia (BAM) president Tengku Mahaleel Tengku Ariff is relieved that the issue over his replacement has been amicably solved.

As for Lee Chong Wei, the World No 1 hopes that soon-tobe president Datuk Seri Norza Zakaria will make proactive changes to ensure badminton continues to make progress.

Norza is not expected to face challengers following the winwin situation achieved with BAM acting president Tan Sri Al Amin Abd Majid in the race for the president’s post at the association’s annual general meeting in Subang Jaya on April 29.

Norza, the current BAM deputy president, and Al Amin had a discussion over the contest for the association’s top post and the latter decided to uphold the tradition of no contest for the president’s post by stepping aside.

Tengku Mahaleel, however, advised his soon-to-be replacement and the council members to elect vibrant deputies who can give undivided attention to the progress of the sport.

“I must praise Al Amin for giving way to Norza. It is something positive for Malaysian badminton,” said Tengku Mahaleel, who took leave as president in October 2015 due to health reasons, yesterday.

“However, the task to take the sport to the next level should not only be handled by Norza.

“It is important that his deputies also work towards improving things.

“Those elected must be hands on and also work closely with the players and coaches,” he added.

Chong Wei hopes Norza will bring a positive effect on the sport.

“Norza has been with BAM for a long time and he knows everything in-and-out. I hope he will change the landscape of our badminton.

“As a senior player, I will help where I can.

“We need to identify shuttlers with potential and groom them accordingly under the coaches. Norza is young and I believe he will bring a fresh approach in getting things done,” said Chong Wei.