Lim wants policy rethink

THE BA of Malaysia (BAM) has never blocked the departure of players from the national set-up but it must, said treasurer Datuk Lim Teong Kiat, stop those who leave to continue training with the national squad.

It has been BAM's policy to allow independent players to train with the national squad as long as they follow guidelines set by the association but Teong Kiat said this could well result in more players using the same trend.

There is speculation that men's doubles Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong may quit BAM if they are split up and Tiong Kiat said he was fearful that they could then train with the national squad as independent players.

"We cannot stop players from leaving the national team but I don't think allowing them to spar with the national squad is an ideal practice. As professionals, they seek their own sponsors and they are supposed to organise their career, including training, on their own," said Tiong Kiat.

"We have been trying to look after all the players and this is the reason BAM has been accommodating independent players who want to continue training with the national squad. They just need to write to BAM and normally, we accept their request if they fulfil the criteria which is based on their services to the nation.

"However, players may start abusing the system and this will cripple the national training centre.

"If the speculation is true that Kien Keat-Boon Heong may leave and at the same time, are given permission to train with the national team, it is not going to be fair to the players who remain loyal to the national squad.

"By allowing this, BAM will bear the cost of training for the sparring players and it could increase if more shuttlers decide to leave BAM.

"BAM's open door policy is good as it allows independent players to qualify for major individual and team events but I don't think allowing them to train after leaving the association is a good practice." By K.M. Boopathy

Lim wants policy rethink

THE BA of Malaysia (BAM) has never blocked the departure of players from the national set-up but it must, said treasurer Datuk Lim Teong Kiat, stop those who leave to continue training with the national squad.

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