KUALA LUMPUR – Is the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) on the brink of losing another prominent figure from its coaching ranks—its longest-serving coach, no less?
Scoop understands that BAM is likely to part ways with a coach who is reportedly exploring new opportunities and has yet to sign a contract extension.
“BAM is expected to undergo another restructuring exercise soon, and there is a possibility of a long-serving coach leaving,” said a source close to Akademi Badminton Malaysia (ABM), speaking on condition of anonymity.
The coach in question is believed to be Datuk Tey Seu Bock, BAM’s longest-serving mentor, who has been a cornerstone of the academy since 2002.
Widely credited for his pivotal role in the illustrious career of Malaysian badminton legend Datuk Lee Chong Wei, Seu Bock currently leads the national boys’ singles squad.
The 51-year-old previously served as coach of the senior men’s singles team.
Seu Bock’s potential departure adds to a growing list of changes within BAM’s coaching lineup.
Last week, BAM announced that men’s doubles head coach Tan Bin Shen would be leaving after the Malaysia Open next month.
Bin Shen is set to join former Malaysian international Wong Choong Hann in the Hong Kong national setup, alongside two other Malaysian coaches, Jeremy Gan and Loh Wei Sheng.
This development also comes on the heels of BAM parting ways with Indonesian coach Hendrawan in October.
Hendrawan, who served as the men’s singles head coach, departed following a major restructuring exercise that saw Denmark’s Kenneth Jonassen appointed as the new singles head coach and former international Rosman Razak reinstated for a third stint as the women’s doubles head coach.
As part of that reshuffle, Seu Bock, who had worked alongside Hendrawan with the senior team, was reassigned to oversee the junior boys’ singles squad.
While Seu Bock has yet to confirm his next move, his potential exit raises questions about the association’s ability to retain top coaching talent amid increasing competition from other badminton powerhouses.
Countries like India and Indonesia have been actively recruiting experienced coaches as part of their preparation for the next Olympic cycle, a trend Malaysian coaches have not been immune to.
Should Seu Bock decide to leave, it would mark the end of a remarkable 22-year career with BAM. — December 22, 2024