AFTER much deliberation, the BA of Malaysia (BAM) confirmed that the contract of national men’s doubles coach, Paulus Firman has been extended.
According to the national body, the services of the Indonesian are still much needed, especially with the Olympics now moved to July next year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
BAM secretary general, Datuk Kenny Goh said yesterday: “We have agreed to extend Paulus’ contract (two years). We still need his services.”
The Indonesian returned to Kuala Lumpur for a second stint in 2018 after having coached the Philippines national team.
Paulus, who had coached the likes of Tan Boon Heong, Koo Kien Keat and former Olympics silver medallists Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong, has been tasked with getting national No 1 Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik up to the mark for the Tokyo Games next year.
After having inspired them to the Philippines Sea Games gold last year, Paulus will now have to prove himself at a bigger stage.
Apart from Aaron-Wooi Yik, Paulus must also beef up national No 2, Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani.
Currently, Aaron-Wooi Yik are ranked No 9 in the world, while Sze Fei-Izzuddin are at No 28.
Paulus, who has always favoured coaching in Malaysia, said: “BAM have looked at what I’ve done over the past two years and I am grateful that they have extended my contract for another two years.
“I will work extra hard to make sure I continue delivering good results.”
However, due to the Movement Control Order (MCO), Paulus has yet to sign the contract.
He is also the only coach who is based at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara.
The other two Indonesian coaches, Hendrawan and Indra Wijaya are staying (in Kuala Lumpur) with their families.