Norza bows out with pride after transforming Malaysian badminton

New Straits Times

10-05-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: When Tan Sri Norza Zakaria first assumed the presidency of the BA of Malaysia (BAM) in 2017, it was all about one man — former world No. 1 Datuk Lee Chong Wei.
Eight years on, Norza is proud that BAM is no longer dependent on a single superstar, but has instead become a system capable of producing a steady stream of world-class talent.
He believes the transformation was made possible by separating BAM's administration from its high-performance programme at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM).
"When I came in, it was all about Chong Wei, but now we've become an institution that keeps producing players — not just one extraordinary performer," said Norza after BAM's annual general meeting (AGM)-cum-elections at ABM on Saturday.
"We trusted the process, and it delivered quality soldiers who are now top players. But we need continuity. There's always room for improvement, and that's where we bring in new leadership."
Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz was elected unopposed as the new BAM president during the AGM.
"I've done my national service. Now it's Tengku Zafrul 's turn to do his part," added Norza.
"I stepped down when the time came. I believe no one is bigger than the institution. If I thought otherwise, I would've stayed forever."
Though Norza did not achieve his dream of delivering Malaysia's first Olympic gold, he did witness a historic moment when Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik won the nation's first world title in 2022.
He believes his successor has what it takes to continue chasing that elusive Olympic gold.
During Norza's tenure, BAM developed several top players, including Lee Zii Jia (world No. 10), men's doubles pair Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani (world No. 2) and mixed doubles pair Goh Soon Huat-Shevon Lai (world No. 3) — all of whom turned professional after leaving the national team.
Women's doubles world No. 4 Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah and mixed doubles world No. 4 Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei are also among the standout performers under the BAM banner.
Norza, who stepped down in September last year, had handpicked Tengku Zafrul as his successor.
He believes the 52-year-old Investment, Trade and Industry Minister is an ideal candidate, thanks to his corporate success and strong ties to the government.
"We needed someone young, from the corporate world and connected to the government, and Tengku Zafrul fits the bill," said Norza.
"Most of our sponsors already know him well."
"We've also brought in professional consultants (Pemandu) to identify the gaps between where we are and where we need to be. I've told Tengku Zafrul these reports will help him strengthen BAM.
"The separation of BAM as the governing body and ABM as the high-performance centre has been implemented. His job now is to reinforce the blueprint and process towards the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics."