Chong Wei bowled over by Tengku Zafrul's detailed five-year badminton development plan
PETALING JAYA: It was never easy trying to lure Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei back into the fold of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).
For years since his 2019 retirement, the nation's greatest shuttler kept a respectful distance, politely turning down repeated offers to rejoin the body, preferring instead to contribute on his own terms.
But on Saturday, BAM president Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz finally achieved what no one else could.
So what made him have a change of heart?
It was the detailed blueprint called 'Tangkis 2030' that was unveiled by Tengku Zafrul during the council meeting on Saturday. The five-year-plan details BAM's ambitions, covering not just the elite squad but the entire badminton ecosystem. And it convinced him to return as an independent council member.
'To be honest, I was surprised at how detailed his long-term plan is,' said Chong Wei when contacted.
'This is the first time I've seen a BAM president with such a roadmap. In less than 100 days, he's presented a clear vision, and I can see he is sincere about lifting Malaysian badminton.
'Even while still serving as MITI (Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry) Minister until the end of the year, he has worked hard to put this plan together and engaged with all stakeholders to ensure his vision can be carried out
'That is why I've agreed to use my knowledge and experience to help him and Malaysian badminton,' said the 41-year-old legend.
'In the past, many people had asked me to come back to BAM, but I feel that the plan drawn up by Tengku Zafrul is one that covers many aspects,' said Chong Wei.
'Tangkis 2030' is built around five key missions: reclaiming the Thomas Cup by 2026, winning Olympic gold at Los Angeles 2028, producing world No. 1s in at least three events, ensuring a sustainable pipeline of champions, and driving badminton as a pillar of a healthier Malaysia.
A flagship programme, 'Road to Thomas Cup', targets ending Malaysia's 34-year drought in Horsens, Denmark, next year.
To strengthen BAM's foundations, Tengku Zafrul has also roped in three other heavyweights: former NTV7 and Celcom CEO Datuk Seri Shazalli Ramly (branding and marketing), Tan Sri Gooi Hoe Soon (finance), and Datuk Sunil Abraham (legal).
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