KUALA LUMPUR – The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) may have little choice but to split world number four mixed doubles pair Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei if ongoing tensions between them persist.
National mixed doubles coach Nova Widianto revealed today that the duo are likely to be paired with different partners for the Taipei Open (6–11 May) and Thailand Open (13–18 May).
If the decision stands, it will confirm Scoop’s earlier report that the national number one pair are heading for a split, at least temporarily.
For now, Nova has confirmed that withdrawing them from next month’s Asian Championships in Ningbo, China (April 8–13) was his decision, allowing them time to reset and refocus.
“Tensions between them started as early as the Paris Olympics last year,” Nova explained.
“When they were still climbing the rankings, early exits were easier to accept. But now, with higher expectations, they are struggling to handle the pressure, which has affected their emotions.
“While things have occasionally settled down, the issues keep resurfacing. Off the court, their relationship is still manageable, but once they step onto the court, emotions become difficult to control. That’s why we decided to give them a break.”
Despite the situation, Nova confirmed that BAM will not separate the fast-rising pair of Hoo Pang Ron and Cheng Su Yin.
The Indonesian coach, himself a former world champion, also confirmed that Tang Jie and Ee Wei remain in the preliminary squad for the Sudirman Cup in Xiamen, China (April 27–May 4).
“We’ll reassess their situation after the Asian Championships. I hope they can be ready for the Sudirman Cup because that tournament is about representing the country, not just competing as a mixed doubles pair.
“The Sudirman Cup does not require fixed partnerships, so we’ll keep them in the squad and see how things develop. The team needs players of their calibre.
“However, we won’t make changes to Pang Ron and Su Yin. Instead, we may look at younger players to test new combinations.”
Nova admitted that splitting Tang Jie and Ee Wei would pose challenges for the team.
“If they separate, it will be a problem. We don’t have an immediate replacement, unlike South Korea or China, which have several players at a similar level. Our younger players still need time to develop, so we must carefully consider our options.”
BAM’s executive committee is expected to meet tomorrow to discuss the pair’s future and other key decisions moving forward. — March 24, 2025