'BAM will gain from Pearly-Thinaah million-ringgit deal'
Pearly-Thinaah are expected to sign a new deal with BAM this week, bringing an end to months of speculation over their national team future after the previous contracts expired in December.
The contract extension is expected to see them stay with BAM until at least the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Pekan said BAM stands to benefit commercially from retaining the country's top women's pair, currently ranked world No. 3.
"With Pearly-Thinaah staying, BAM secures a valuable commercial asset. Their presence will help attract major sponsors. The deal makes sense for both parties," he said.
Pekan felt that the reported package is a good deal for the players, sparing them the logistical and financial challenges of turning professional.
"If they go independent, they'd need to manage their own coaches, sparring, travel and planning. That requires serious resources. With BAM, all that's taken care of — they just focus on playing."
Pekan pointed out that Pearly-Thinaah will also get to keep their prize money from tournaments.
Meanwhile badminton legend Datuk Rashid Sidek said the million-ringgit figure for Pearly-Thinaah is justifiable given the current market rates.
"They deserve it. If they were professionals, they might even earn more," he said.
However, Rashid cautioned that BAM must ensure that such high salaries do not undermine its broader development goals.
"If too much of the budget goes to just a few players, it limits support for others, especially juniors. BAM isn't like a private sponsor — they need to manage the whole programme," he said.
Rashid said Pearly-Thinaah made the right decision to remain under BAM, as there is stability and support from the Youth and Sports Ministry.
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