Choong Hann named director of coaching

BA of Malaysia (BAM) have appointed former national No 1 Wong Choong Hann as their coaching director.

The 41-year-old will assume his post on Jan 1.

BAM president Datuk Seri Norza Zakaria said Choong Hann’s main job scope will be to realise Malaysia’s dream of winning their first Olympic gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo edition.

“All five chief coaches will send their reports to Choong Hann but he will only be responsible towards the coaching structure of the national squad.

“One of his job scope will be to help the shuttlers win gold at the 2020 Olympics, but to set it as a KPI (Key Performance Indicator) we need to discuss with him.

“We had other candidates, including foreigners, for the job, but looking at the present situation and shortage of funds, Choong Hann was the best choice.

“I believe Choong Hann will be able to work well with the other coaches and achieve our gold target in Tokyo,” said Norza.

Meanwhile, former national junior champion Aidil Sholeh Ali has agreed to join BAM.

Norza said the 18-year-old will report for training on Dec 3.

“We sent him an offer letter last week through the BA of Selangor and he has agreed to join BAM,” he added.

Aidil, who won silver in the recent Malaysia Games in Perak, was previously with Academy Badminton Sports Affairs under Rashid Sidek.