MALAYSIAN SPORTS

PUNISH THEM SAYS ELYAS

2012-02-01T18:35:00.003+08:00

The man who brought the Thomas Cup to Malaysian shores after 25 years Tan Sri Elyas Omar has called for the powers that be to punish all responsible should Malaysia fail to make it to the final rounds of the Thomas Cup.

Watch the video, an interview held before the Badminton Association of Malaysia High Performance Trio ( rather call them that) came up with a ready made excuse in event of failure in Macau two weeks from now in the qualification rounds.

With the exception of one paper, the others were rather subtle with the importance placed on Olympics, treating the Thomas Cup as a has been event.

And in the clip below Elyas talks about killing of club structure and why BAM should be inclusive rather then trying to be exclusive.

The lack of development as so far as badminton is concerned and the bribery scandal in Malaysian football are a few of the clips that will be uploaded soon.

ANOTHER DEFEAT DOWN UNDER

2012-01-30T19:43:00.001+08:00

Note: while other media may credit Razie for both goals, the lack of co-operation from team officials in Perth has made my task impossible as I have relied on information from hockey friends who watched the match and kept me abreast via SMS.

A defensive minded Malaysia were beaten 5-2 by Australia at the Perth Hockey Stadium in their second friendly match this evening.

Malaysia opted to have all their players in their own 25 for a large part of the match.

Perhaps the strategy adopted was to counter the strong Aussie side fielded by coach Ric Charlesworth.

Australia had the likes of three times FIH player of the year Jaime Dywer, Matt Ghodes, Christopher Cirello and Kieren Govers.

The team fielded was from a list of 28 Olympic hopefuls from their squad but they failed to get the better of a Malaysian side that opted for "parking the bus" in front of goal tactics.

Australia went ahead in the very first minute through Ghodes.

Although the Aussies were awarded penalty corners in the 17, 19 and 20th minutes, the combined efforts of Baljit Singh and Mohd Madzli Ikmar kept the score intact.

But that did not prevent the Australians for doubling their advantage via Simon Orchard.

Off Malaysia's first foray into the opponents semi circle they were awarded a penalty corner in the 23rd minute.

The attempt by Mohd Razie Abdul Rahim sailed into goal, deflected off a defenders stick.

Australia had another penalty corner but Baljit denied them a clear shot at goal and the halftime score stood at 2-1 in favour of Australia.

Dwyer made it 3-1 in the 44th minute before Ghodes scored his second and Australia's fourth in the 50th minute.

Liam de Young made it 5-1 in the 53rd minute but Malaysia reduced the deficit when Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin Tengku Jalil pounced on a penalty corner rebound in the 55th minute to reduce the deficit to 5-2.

WHY INVITE ONLY TO HUMILIATE ME - ELYAS

2012-01-29T22:04:00.001+08:00

UPDATE - BAM CLARIFIES

"Firstly, please allow us to apologise to Tan Sri. It was never an intention to humiliate and embarrass anybody, in particular Tan Sri who we have much respect and admiration. To prove my point, we made sure that we received him during his arrival, and we made sure he was comfortable throughout the function. It was a genuine mistake on our part in making the mistake in placement of the seating for the night. Not wanting to be seen giving any excuse, but having to organise to very important events, i.e the Malaysia Open and the Appreciation Night was indeed overwhelming. In the excitement of wanting to do the best for our ex-greats, we overlooked certain matters, and that we must apologise for it."

Kenny Goh

General Manager

Badminton Association of Malaysia

Tan Sri Elyas Omar is known as the man with the golden touch. Born in 16 November 1936, Tan Sri Elyas rose to prominence in sports when he was the Lord Mayor of Kuala Lumpur from 1981 to 1992.

As revealed by this blog, Elyas was snubbed by the Badminton Association of Malaysia at a recent appreciation night. And in the video above, Elyas lays bare how he felt by the treatment.

Under the guidance of Tan Sri Elyas, badminton regained some lost glory when Malaysia won the Thomas Cup in 1992. From then on, the badminton scene in Malaysia also changed.

Tan Sri Elyas is also credited for lighting the Kuala Lumpur football team to a higher level when he was the President of the Kuala Lumpur FA from 1984 to 1996. Cycling also enjoyed some steady growth and success when Tan Sri Elyas was heading the national body from 1984 to 1988.

Tan Sri Elyas, was the Sports Commissioner, from 2004 till 2007, also the President of Asian Badminton Confederation (ABC) from 1991 to 1993 and the Vice President of Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) from 1984 to 1998.

He shared his sentiments on various issues with regards to badminton, football and the current state of affairs in sports. This blog will release more video excerpts in the next few days.

IT PAYS TO HAVE CONNECTIONS

2012-01-28T00:13:00.001+08:00

The FIH today announced that Singapore will take the place of the United States at the Olympic Qualification Tournament in New Delhi, India from February 18-26.

Singapore, ranked #41 in the FIH World Ranking was contacted to join the six team men’s qualification group after the United States unexpectedly pulled out of the event.

“We were pleased that Singapore agreed on such short notice to take part in the Olympic Qualification event,” said FIH CEO Kelly Fairweather. “It will undoubtedly give its men’s national team valuable experience in a major international tournament.”

The tournament in Delhi will feature a six-team round robin format. Following the round robin, the teams ranked first and second will play for a berth to the London 2012 Olympic Games. The remaining four teams will play placement games for FIH World Ranking points.

ELYAS SNUBBED

2012-01-26T07:00:00.001+08:00

Tan Sri Elyas Omar was undoubtedly the man of the hour in 1992 at the Stadium Negara when Malaysia won the Thomas Cup.

But on January 15 this year, the man who came up with the plan to ensure the Thomas Cup made its way to Malaysian shores was virtually snubbed when the heroes of yesteryear of Malaysian badminton were given recognition at a gala dinner at a leading hotel after the Malaysian Open.

The fact that he was not seated on a VIP table was understandable, but not even one word was mentioned about Elyas during any of the speeches somewhat left a sour taste.

Why was it so difficult for BAN to acknowledge the man responsible for the success when all the players from the team were given due recognition and invited on stage to receive a momento?

I was not invited but was informed that Elyas , who was in a wheelchair, felt slighted at the treatment dished out.

Guess that is the way past officials are recognized these days, with a snub.

SSTMI TEAMS RECORD A DOUBLE OVER BJSS

2012-01-21T19:49:00.002+08:00

The two teams from SSTMI recorded identical wins over their counterparts from Bukit Jalil in the MHC-MILO-NSC Junior Hockey League matches at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium in Johor Baru this evening.

SSTMI Thunderbolts defeated BJSS 5-1 and on the adjacent pitch the scoreline was the same for SSTMI who defeated BJSS Juniors, thus putting a dent early on the aspirations of the city teams in the chase for honours in Division One.

And in Seremban, Petaling Jaya City Council went on a goal scoring spree, trashing Tunku Besar Secondary School Tampin 7-0.

UNIKL CONTINUE WINNING WAYS

2012-01-20T19:00:00.000+08:00

UniKL Young guns registered their second consecutive win in the MHC-Milo-NSC Junior Hockey League when they defeated Tunku Besar Secondary School 4-0 at the Seremban 2 Hockey Stadium.

And two Group B matches of Division Two, one in Kuala Lumpur and the other in Kuantan had to be called off due to a downpour.

ROYAL REBUKE

2012-01-17T20:36:00.000+08:00

Watch the video captured by yours truly where His Royal Highness Sultan Azlan Shah, the life president of the Malaysian Hockey Federation takes the national coaches to task on the performance of the team in the match against China, which incidentally Malaysia won 2-0.

For more videos and full story, go to www.malaysianhockey.blogspot.com

JUNIORS SHOW THE WAY

2012-01-14T20:15:00.001+08:00

Having read the two English dailies this morning, one that projected the excuses dished out by Tai Beng Hai while the other hammered the performances of the team into orbit, I opted to wait till the Project 2013 played China this evening.

And as expected the 2013 squad won 6-2 and I rather talk about their performance instead of dwelling on the excuses offered which was effectively handled in the report today.

Intrigued by the score line, I contacted K. Dharmaraj and sought his comments and what was the difference between his and the national teams performances.

True to his nature, Dharma avoided talking about the national team and spoke just about his players.

"We played our normal game and opted for high press, letting the opponents make the mistakes," said Dharma.

"The players played to their ability and were focused as I had told them the result did not matter but what was important was that they give their best.

"We hope to improve and prove that our win at the Sultan Johor Cup was not a flash in the pan."

The 2013 squad scored through Syamim Yusof (6th minute). Mohd Noor Faez Ibrahim ( 16th minute) and Kevinder Singh (18th minute) for a 3-0 halftime lead.

Dedy Aryandi made it 4-0 in the 39th minute before Sang Yi reduced the deficit in the 43rd minute.

Faez scored his second and Malaysia's fifth in the 51st minute before Amir Farid made it 6-1 in the 60th minute.

For the record 2013 had 3 penalty corners and scored from 2.

TALKING COCK

2012-01-14T14:46:00.001+08:00

Well the MHF/MHC Secretary had a field day at the Press Launch of the MJHL this afternoon making snide remarks about my decision to decline the offer from Nestlé to to handle media services.

One of his remarks was that I was upset that he made media statements and that as Secretary he had every right to do so.

And since he has raised that issue publicly, I too shall reply in public via my blog.

Let us take a look at the statement he made yesterday and I reproduce it for the benefit of readers.

"Malaysia Hockey Confederation (MHC) secretary Maninderjit Singh said the MJHL will start as scheduled on Jan 19.

“We are happy to see more teams taking part in the MJHL. Although the Negri team submitted their entry late, the technical committee decided to make an exception,” said Maninderjit.

“We offered newcomers Sapura to play in Division One since they initially asked to play in the top flight.

“But they have also decided to stay put, leaving 17 teams in Division Two. We are happy with the current list and I am sure the Division One competition can go on with nine teams in the fray.”

Firstly the Technical Committee last met in January 6 and after that meeting, when there were only 25 teams confirmed the Chairman Dato Rahim Mohd Ariff made. Statement that they were looking for another team.

The issue of the Pahang team request was never discussed at the meeting.

Sapura were never made an offer to play in Division One and this talk of them declining is a blatant lie.

So with no meeting, who made that decision and what kind of statement us he making?

It is apparent that he is scared of his own shadow and since he has no decency to face up to the truth, let the truth prevail and make public the minutes of the meeting that was held to make the decision about sending a team to play in Division Two public.

Show us the letter to Sapura that offered them a chance to play in Division One and their letter to decline.

If not stop talking cock

BAM OH BAM

2012-01-13T19:39:00.001+08:00

Suddenly they have a High Performance Committee, headed by the great Hon. Secretary and assisted by Dato James Selvaraj and Wong Ah Jit.

It was a charade, a hogwash, a show or a circus calling for applicants.

Guess AJ will not be granted a pass to watch the semis and finals of Malaysian Open.

And by the way a retired sports editor was given a MEDIA pass I am told. There I was proven right that only Ah Chong, Ah Fatt or Ah Meng can get passes.

By the way all the names for the Thomas Cup are right but not Fairuz and Zakry.

So will those who made the decision to name the squad resign if we do not make it to the Thomas Cup final rounds.

Do it lah please if you practice what you preach - in the interest of the nation. But then again if you resign you lose the junket to London Olympics right.

And this High Performance Committee was a hogwash of idea that was only decided last night

THIS IS BAM

2012-01-13T14:22:00.001+08:00

Well the great administrators of BAM, the tai chi experts will today once again take the BAM Exco members for a ride at the meeting scheduled this evening.

One does not need a crystal ball to gaze into to guess what the decisions will be.

For the future of Malaysian badminton is at stake but some of the Exco members could not care less as all they have been lobbying on the sidelines of the Malaysian Open is just which of them will be the Team Manager for the Thomas Cup.

Who cares if some officials of BAM are scheming to bring in someone from across the causeway to be our High Performance Director?

Who cares that the Hon. Secretary was trying to impose all kind of conditions on the Independant players to spar at BAM but now has to rely on these players to save his own position?

Who cares if Zulfadli Zulkifli who is the reigning World, Asian and Commonwealth Junior Champion is left out of the Thomas Cup squad cos his father will not bow to BAM top guns?

Who cares if Malaysia does not qualify for the Thomas Cup as all of these people are going to London for the Olympics.

The Thomas Cup team will be Chong Wei, Hafiz, Liew, Ariff, Koo, Tan, Mak, Goh, Zakry and Fairuz.

TOM, DICK AND HARRY

2012-01-12T17:07:00.001+08:00

NOTE: THIS IS A VIDEO INTERVIEW BY THIS BLOG DURING THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS IN LONDON LAST AUGUST. AND FIVE MONTHS LATER THIS SAME PERSON SAYS BAM HAS POLICY NOT RECOGNISING BLOGGERS FOR ACCREDITATION, MAKE YOUR OWN ASSUMPTIONS READERS, IT IS OK WHEN YOU WRITE GOOD THINGS BUT BAD WHEN ONE REPORTS THE TRUTH

Day three of the Malaysian Open and I bumped into the Hon.Secretary of the Badminton Association of Malaysia Ng Chin Chai.

Having known Chin Chai since the 80's and in order to be fair to BAM, I sought clarification as to why I was not given a media accreditation.

He replied curtly that it is the policy of BAM not to give accreditation to bloggers but I was welcome to a guest pass which I declined on principle.

When further pushed as to when BAM came up with this policy, Chin Chai then in turned said that they were merely enforcing the policy set by BWF. ( I shall seek clarification from BWF as it has been indicated by Chin Chai that BWF were responsible for accreditation).

When asked when was this policy enforced by BAM, Chin Chai opted to be evasive, saying that he does not remember.

Now I find it intriguing that BAM sends me the draw, the application form for accreditation together with other media personalities, yet now claim that a policy was in place.

And what I find most disgusting is the fact that they had no issues giving me accreditation last year nor paying me for my stories that they used on their website. All along I was a blogger.

There is a simple explanation to this, some people in BAM are obviously shit scared of my blog and cannot accept the truth.

Just take a look at the media centre and you will find loads of people given accreditation and they do not even have any paper published.

Walk around and you can see Ah Chong, Ah Choy and Ah Meng wearing tags.

So if your name is Tom, Dick or Harry and you kiss ass, you will get free entry.

So next time Chin Chai, I suggest you get your facts right before you blame BWF for denying me accreditation.

Suffice to say BAM, do not tell one lie to cover another as one day you will run out of lies...

MANGLISH?

2012-01-12T08:12:00.001+08:00

Please look at this article taken from the official Malaysian Open badminton website this morning at 8.11am.

What more can we say about BAM...

BAN US IF YOU WANT FAM

2012-01-11T20:28:00.002+08:00

Terengganu has issued an ultimatum to the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) that failure to resolve the foreign players issue will result in both the Terengganu state team and T-Team pulling out of the M-League.

Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Said today issued the ultimatum claiming he was disappointed with the FAM and may also seek legal redress to resolve the issue.

"If the issue is not settled, there is a big possibility that both teams from Terengganu will withdraw from the M-League competition. If FAM wants to ban us for 10 years that is their problem...but it is due to lack of professionalism on their part.

"Football is played as a sport to entertain the fans, for fun, so why make it so difficult," he told reporters after a state exco meeting here Wednesday.

Ahmad said he had spoken to a number of legal practitioners and sought their views on the appropriate action that can be taken against FAM.

UPSETS GALORE

2012-01-11T13:15:00.001+08:00

Day Two of the Malaysian Open saw a string of upsets, mostly involving Malaysians in the morning session at the Putra Stadium.

With the scoreboard at the centre court yet to be fixed as seen above, not to mention the difficulty to sit on the seat that you paid for, it was a good morning session as so far as the Malaysian players were concerned.

Mixed doubles pair Chan Peng Soon/Goh Liu Ying defeated fifth seeds Chen Hung Ling/Cheng Wen Hsing of Taiwan 21-17,12-21,24-22 to book a place in the second round.

It was a splendid display by the Malaysian pair who played magnificently and will surely be boosted by this win and make further progress in the tournament.

They will surely fancy their chances against India's V. Diju/Jwala Gutta who were taken to the wire by Singapore's Chayut Triachart/Yao Lei before prevailing 21-13,19-21,21-16.

But the biggest cheer occurred at 1.00pm as unheralded Tee Jing Yee defeated Thailand's Portip Buranaprasertsuk 16-21,25-23,21-10 to book her spot in the second round.

Jing Yee, who had to come through the qualifiers will take on Germany's Juliane Schenk who is the eight seed in the second round match tomorrow.

Ironically both the Malaysian upset wins were achieved in 46 minutes, looks like the spirit of 46 (pun intended) still strives in Malaysian hearts.

Also sent packing were Thailand's Sudket Prapakamol/Saralee Thoungthongkam, the sixth seeds in the mixed doubles event. They were defeated by Russian pair of Alexander Nikolaenko/Valeri Sorokina 21-18,21-19.

Meanwhile KLRC suffered mixed fortunes as Petya Nedelcheva of Bulgaria was defeated by China's Liu Xin 21-9,21-18.

However Pi Hongyan of France sailed easily into the second round, disposing off the challenge from Japan's Saka Satayo 21-13,21-13.

EVEN AJ NOT SPARED

2012-01-11T11:49:00.000+08:00

UPDATE:

Even the National Sports Institute photographer was denied accreditation by the BAM General Manager. Mind you NSI provides medical personnel for the event and the photographer was to take pictures of staff at work.

Guess Malaysians are not important to BAM as the foreigners are given accreditation without batting an eyelid. And we thought we were given independence in 1957 but there are still that colonise us, sadly its Malaysians who are doing it.

Guess when the Badminton Association of Malaysia wants to flex their muscles, they even ignore personalities that they were chasing after just weeks ago.

Lt. Col (R) Wong Ah Jit was touted as the next High Performance Director for BAM, with two head honchos of BAM actively pursuing to seek his services.

But when the Malaysian Open got underway, AJ as he is affectionately known, was not given given an invite nor accreditation to view the action at Stadium Putra.

AJ was seeing in the line purchasing tickets outside the Stadium Putra today (Wednesday). But he clarified that he was trying to buy tickets for friends who wanted to see the finals on Sunday.

However he confirmed that BAM had not invited him nor given him a pass to enter the venue and only his official uniform did the trick for him today.

Guess its a case of being used and dumped when BAM desire....

WHAT A RIP-OFF

2012-01-10T22:20:00.001+08:00

Take one look at that picture and guess waht was the cost of the meal, inclusive of the drinking water. And this was purchased by a legitimate journalist, not blogger, at the Stadium Putra on Day One of the Malaysian Open.

Well, its best you sit on a chair as you come to terms with the price, a whopping RM12 for that meal. And while BAM receives millions of ringgit from their sponsors, not including the astronomical sum one has to part with to purchase tickets, they just cannot seem to provide some decently priced meals for the fans and officials.

Yup, some of these BA officials will be sitting on cushioned chairs, in air conditioned environments, digging into catered food, but those who actually provide the return of investment will just have to live with part of the sponsors tag.... ROAR...the stomach I mean as paying that much for this food is daylight robbery.

Meanwhile....

Former National pair Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif/Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari, now with the Kuala Lumpur Racket Club (KLRC), made it to the main draw of the Malaysian Open Super Series after winning their qualifying match at the Putra Stadium in Bukit Jalil here today.

The pair who quit the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) fold, took just 26 minutes to beat Taiwan's Liang Jui Wei/Liao Kuan Hao 21-13, 23-21 in straight sets.

"Our understanding is getting better. We are beginning to understand our roles better but we have to improve on our consistency," said Mohd Zakry after their match.

The pair, now under the guidance of former great Razif Sidek, will meet Indonesian pair Markis Kido/Hendra Setiawan tomorrow.

Mohd Fairuzizuan said the encounter with the Indonesian pair would be a difficult one since they (Mohd Zakry-Mohd Fairuzizuan) have never beaten the top Indonesian pair.

"However, we roughly know their style of play and if we win tomorrow, we can then target for the semifinal," he said.

The duo, ranked world number 45 in the Badminton World Federation's ranking, and not expected to make the cut for the 2012 London Olympics, have targetted to win at least two titles this year - a Grand Prix Gold event and a Super Series.

Apart from Mohd Zakry-Mohd Fairuzizuan, two other men's pairs also made it to the main draw in the men's doubles, namely Mak Hee Chun/Ong Soon Hock and Ong Jian Guo/Teo Kok Siang.

Hee Chun-Soon Hock beat Rasmus Bondel/Anders Kristiansen from England 21-19, 21-14 while Jian Guo-Kok Siang had to go the distance before overcoming Thailand's Bodin Issara/Maneepong Jongjit 21-16, 15-21, 22-20 in three gruelling sets.

BOUGHT NOT FREE

2012-01-10T20:14:00.001+08:00

Some have raised doubts that I have purchased tickets for the Malaysian Open.

So in order to satisfy them and help erase their doubts, I will attach a picture of the tickets I purchased to follow proceedings of the event.

I must reiterate that I did apply for accreditation, as a blogger but was told that it was declined. bviously I am targetted because the websites from Europe and even online journalists from local media have been given accreditation.

The funny thing is that for the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi and the World Champs in London, I was given accreditation even though I was a blogger. And my stories even made it to the BAM website, the same organisation that opts to deny me my rights to cover the Malaysian Open without fear or favour.

Guess BAM is trying to pull their weight and I wonder if they will resort to seeking an injunction to keep me away from any of their press conferences in the near future. Childish you may think but ooks like the man pulling the strings has made this personal.

Well as insignificant as they may want to label this blog, there is definitely a fear factor that causes then to prevent me from getting access to the event. Tell you what, you have my seat number as displayed, maybe you might want to make that chair disappear.

Note I purchased the tickets even though the bank that sponsored the event has been my preferred bank since 2001, guess membership has no privileges lah.

Meanwhile....

Indonesian shuttlers will continue their quest to end the title drought in badminton’s top tournaments.

No Indonesian shuttlers qualified for quarterfinals of the first tournament of the season, the Korea Open, last week in Seoul, which extended the country’s title drought to eight consecutive Super Series since mixed doubles pair Tontowi Ahmad and Liliyana Natsir won the Singapore Open in June last year.

Doubles coach Aryono Miranat said on Tuesday that Indonesian shuttlers, especially men’s and women’s doubles, have a good chance of ending the slump in Kuala Lumpur.

“Several top Chinese men’s and women’s doubles are absent from this tournament. That will mean the titles are wide open to grab,” he said.

“[Without the Chinese players] it still won’t be an easy tournament because Japan and [South] Korea doubles are also hard to beat.

“But, if our shuttlers improve their games and work harder, they have a good chance of winning titles in Malaysia.”

Notable Chinese absentees in the women’s doubles are Korea Open winners Tian Qing and Zhao Yunlei, and world No. 1 pair Wang Xiaoli and Yu Yang.

It’s been almost four years since an Indonesia won a Super Series women’s doubles title. The most recent was the 2008 Indonesia Open, when Vita Marissa and Liliyana prevailed at home.

There are three women’s doubles combinations that will try to end Indonesia’s drought at Putra Stadium, Kuala Lumpur.

Sixth-seeded Greysia Polii and Meiliana Jauhari will open against Eom Hye-won and Jang Ye-na of South Korea, while 2011 Southeast Asian Games champions Nitya Krishinda Maheswari and Anneke Feinya Agustine have a first round match against qualifiers.

Vita, who now pairs with Nadya Melati, will have a tough first round against No. 5 seeds Cheng Wen-hsing and Chien Yu-chin of Taiwan.

In the men’s doubles, the world’s top three — Cai Yun and Fu Haifeng (China), Lee Yong-dae and Jung Jae-sung (South Korea), and Mathias Boe and Carsten Mogensen (Denmark) — are also skipping the $400,000 tournament.

This would be a good opportunity for Indonesia’s top pair, Mohammad Ahsan and Bona Septano, to get their career first Super Series title.

The No. 5 seeds will play against qualifiers in the first round, but they were drawn in the same half as second-seeded Ko Sung-hyun and Yoo Yeon-seong of South Korea and host favorites Koo Kien Keat and Tan Boon Heong.

Last week in Seoul, Ahsan and Bona were ousted early, losing to unseeded Japan pair Naoki Kawamae and Shoji Sato in the first round.

“I know that we have a big chance to win the title here. But, after the poor result in Korea, we want to be realistic with our chances. I think a semifinal spot would be a good achievement for now,” Bona said.

Markis Kido and Hendra Setiawan, who won the Malaysia Open in 2008, will start their campaign against Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif and Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari.

NO ACCREDITATION BUT LIFE GOES ON

2012-01-10T13:15:00.001+08:00

For reasons known best to the Badminton Association of Malaysia, I was verbally informed that no accreditation will be given to me as a blogger but I am free to apply and be provided with accreditation as a writer or contributor for a magazine. And the official was kind enough to even offer me a Guest pass in order to gain access to Stadium Putra for the Malaysian Open.

However I humbly declined the offer, stating that I either be granted a media pass as a blogger or none at all. And today being a free entry, I have saved some hard earned money by not purchasing a ticket to view matches today.

But to be safe, I have purchased tickets for the next two days, Wednesday and Thursday, to enable me to watch and report the action from the spectators stand. From Friday onwards I shall watch matches on cable TV and try to provide assessment of the proceedings the way I view it.

So life goes on and lets now look at the morning session of the qualification day.....

There are bound to be issues on Day One of any event and it was no different at Stadium Putra as the portable scoreboards gave loads of headaches to the organisors as can be seen from the picture above, with the third column missing, thus causing the fans to either pay attention to the chair umpire or watch the main scoreboard to keep abreast with the scores. Then there was also the irritation of the courts not taped well and it caused the Malaysian doubles pair of Mohd Lufti Zain Abdul Khalid/Vontus Indra Mawan a place in the next round of the qualifiers.

The Malaysian pair were leading the Thai pairing of Patipat Chalardchalem/Nipithon Puangpuapech 15-13 in the rubber, when play had to be stopped and that handed the initiative to the Thai pair who went on to win the tie.

That setback aside, there was some encouraging performances from the Malaysians and it started from mixed doubles pair Tan Aik Quan/Lai Pei Jing who defeated Indonesia's Markis Kido/Pia Zebadiah Bernadeth 21-15,21-18.

And Lydia Cheah too proved that she is made out of sterner stuff as she came back from a set down to defeat India's PV Sindhu 17-21,21-16,21-18 in 46 minutes.

Liew Darren too accounted for another Indian, this time disposing the challenge of RMV Gurusaidutt 21-16,13-21,25-23.

So things are looking good and life goes on..... for as long as the prepaid internet continues to work and the laptop battery lasts...

WHEN "B" SAMPLE WAS NEGATIVE

2012-01-09T23:51:00.001+08:00

Am sorry but beg to differ with National Sports Institute CEO Dato Dr. Ramlan Abdul Aziz with regards to the certainty of a "B" sample being almost impossible to be negative.

There has been a precedent with regards to the "B" sample actually coming out negative.

So really this persecution of the two athletes, with some even going to the extent of labeling them as cheats and the Minister even contemplating taking action against the two national sports associations.

Read on ... The story was published in The Star in 2007.

By: RAJES PAUL

KUALA LUMPUR: His name had been tainted and his reputation was in ruins after failing a dope test.

His mother cried and he almost gave up playing badminton after being banned for two months.

And after months of anguish, anger and anxiety, KLRC Bhd shuttler Sairul Amar Ayob was cleared of any doping violation.

Now the 27-year-old Sairul just wants to focus on winning the last slot to represent Malaysia in the men's singles at the World Badminton Championships which will be held at the Putra Stadium in Bukit Jalil from Aug 13-19.

Lee Chong Wei and Mohd Hafiz Hashim have qualified for the world meet by virtue of being in the top 10 of the world rankings.

The third and last slot is an open race among Sairul, who is ranked 22nd, Lee Tsuen Seng (16th) and Yeoh Kay Bin (24th).

To earn the berth Sairul must give a good showing in the Singapore Open (May 1-6) and the Indonesia Open (May 8-13).

After keeping mum over the dope scandal and suspension, Sairul vented out his frustration over the painful episode yesterday that almost saw the end of his badminton career.

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) suspended Sairul from competing in the Malaysian and Korean Opens in January when his sample A taken during a doping test at the Dutch Open semi-finals in October last year turned out to be positive.

Sairul went on to win his first Open title at the Dutch Open. A banned substance dexamethasone that are used in medication for asthma and skin disorder were found in his A sample. However Sairul's suspension was lifted when his Sample B was found negative.

He could have been slapped with a two-year ban if the sample B was found positive.

With the suspension lifted, Sairul competed in the All-England and Swiss Open in March but the demoralised player lost in the first round of both events.

''I did not take drugs to enhance my performances. I felt very frustrated when I was suspended from the two tournaments (Malaysian and Korean Opens). I was punished and my name was smeared even before the verdict of the Sample B was out. My world ranking was affected (he was ranked at the 14th spot then),'' lamented Sairul.

''In fact, I was contemplating to take legal actions against BWF and BAM (Badminton Association of Malaysia) because I felt I did not deserve such treatment. But now, I know that they had to follow certain procedures.''

''The worst for me was when my mother called me up crying. She thought I was a junkie and I had to explain to her that I don't do drugs. Fortunately, my brother, who is a policeman, explained the whole situation to her.''

''I am glad that my Sample B was negative. It showed that I did not take drugs. But I will surely be careful of what medication I take in the future,'' he said.

Sairul was grateful that his club led by owner Datuk Seri Andrew Kam stood by him.

''In fact, my club sponsored my trip to Belgium where the B Sample was tested at a laboratory there. It was confirmed negative. I was the happiest person then.''

Sairul hoped to repay his club by winning the world meet berth.

''It will be great if one of the KLRC players can make the cut for the world meet. It could be either Lee Tsuen Seng or me. I will be happy as long as one of the club players make it,'' he said.

''Ultimately, my goal is to represent Malaysia in the next year's Olympic Games in Beijing and the Thomas Cup Finals. I am not getting any younger but I will continue to work hard to improve.''

On his chances in the Singapore Open, Sairul said: ''I will be meeting China's Chen Yu in the first round. It will be tough but I will give him a good fight.''

(thestar.com.my)

INDONS GETTING IT RIGHT

2012-01-09T23:00:00.001+08:00

While Malaysian badminton continues its downward spiral, without any real effort save for what David Wee the Development Chairman is trying to do, the Indonesians have taken stock of problems that they face and implement rectification processes in order to attain world standards once again.

Read the article below on how the PBSI starts looking ahead while here in Malaysia distrust rules the roost as Independant players and the club structure continues to be victimized.

As the fortunes of the country’s top shuttlers continue to decline, the Indonesian Badminton Association is well aware of the need to produce a new crop of talent.

Hadi Nasri, head of athletes’ development at the association known as the PBSI, assured fans that youth development efforts were underway.

“We know our senior players have been playing poorly, but trust me that we are trying everything possible for the sake of regeneration, including giving young players more exposure on the world stage,” Hadi said. “We are trying to save our badminton, which has brought pride to the country in world-class competitions, including the Olympics.”

The PBSI has 64 shuttlers in its training camp in Cipayung, East Jakarta, about half of whom are in the youth set-up.

Hadi said the PBSI would continue sending shuttlers to events appropriate to their skill level, which for the youngsters means lower-level events on the International Challenge and Grand Prix circuits.

“Sending them to lower-level tournaments is better for their mental strength. Once they win a tournament, it will grow their confidence to play at a higher level. But if we push them to play in higher-level tournaments, such as the Super Series, and they lose to tougher opponents in the first round, it will hurt their confidence,” he said.

Though perhaps not quickly enough for some observers, green shoots of recovery have started to emerge with youngsters showing well in recent tournaments.

Hera Desi took second in women’s singles at the Malaysia International Challenge in November, losing to teammate Bellaetrix Manuputty. Hera reached the quarterfinals of the India Open Grand Prix Gold a month later, pushing top Japanese shuttler Eriko Hirose to three sets before losing in the quarterfinals.

Elisabeth Purwaningtyas reached the final of last year’s World Junior Championships in Taoyuan City, Taiwan, losing to defending champion Ratchanok Intanon of Thailand. Those showings have boosted hopes of a resurgence in women’s singles, in which Indonesia has struggled to make an impact since the retirement of Susi Susanti.

Men’s doubles has also shown promise. Andrei Adistia and Christopher Rusdianto reached the India Open Grand Prix Gold final before falling to top-seeded Naoki Kawamae and Shoji Sato of Japan. Afiat Yuris Irawan and Rendy Sugiarto reached the last eight of the Indonesia Open Grand Prix Gold, as did Ricky Karanda Suwandi and Muhammad Ulinnuha.

Suci Rizki Andini and Tiara Rosalia Nuraidah gave the country a welcome boost with their women’s doubles title at the Asian Youth Under-19 Championships in Lucknow, India, last July.

“The PBSI has given them the opportunity. It is now about how hard they try to keep their commitment to play for the country,” Hadi said.

Bellaetrix said she was excited about having the chance to face more international competition.

“It’s good that the PBSI has started to send us on more international tours,” she said. “I heard that they will send me on 10 tours this year, which is good, though it’s still far less than Thailand. They send their young players to 20 tournaments each year.

“Look at Thailand, which trusts its young players. The benefit of sending youngsters is that they play without pressure, which helps their confidence.”

As for the older shuttlers who have struggled to maintain their winning form, the PBSI does not plan to put them out to pasture, Hadi said.

“They will help their juniors as sparring partners during training. It is hard to find sparring partners, and it cost a lot to hire new ones. Other countries such as Japan hire our senior players as sparring partners,” he said.

The regeneration effort will also include coaches, nutritionists, psychologists and talent scouts, he added, as the PBSI keeps its local and national coaches up to date on the latest techniques through workshops.

“We keep in touch with the [Badminton World Federation] to send its experts to share the latest info with our coaches,” he said.

TOP SEEDS PULL OUT

2012-01-09T12:55:00.000+08:00

Top doubles seeds, Lee Young Dae and Jung Jae Sung of Korea have withdrawn from the Malaysian Open that is scheduled to commence tomorrow.

Also withdrawing from the Super Series event are P. Kashyap of India from the main draw in the men's singles as well as Dicky Palyama from Holland who was slated to play in the qualifiers.

Thus Muhammad Hafiz Hashim, the first seed for the men's qualifying event is expected to be slated into the main draw.

Women's doubles pair Lotte Jonathans/Paulien Van Dooremalen also have also withdrawn.

More after the Managers meeting this afternoon.

MJHL TO COMMENCE JAN 19

2012-01-07T14:46:00.001+08:00

Tunku Besar Secondary School and MSSPP-USM were promoted to Division One of the forthcoming MHC-MILO-NSC Junior Hockey League that will get underway on January 19. And it was decided that PHK-MSS Kelantan, the team that finished at the bottom of Division One last season were demoted to Division Two.

A record number of 25 teams confirmed their participation and with ten tems placed in Division One the remaining 15 teams were placed in two pools for the second division. The top six teams of Division One will be joined by the top two teams from Division Two, after a playoff between the top two teams in each of the two pools of Diision One.

Read more...www.mjhl.com.my

Ruben Emir Gnanalingam calls referee 'blind and bias'

2012-01-03T16:11:00.002+08:00

If this was in Malaysia, then surely Ruben would have faced a six month ban akin to what former national coach B. Sathianathan had to endure for speaking the truth.

There is no doublt that the sending off was questionable, and more so given the fact that the Norwich player fell like a deck of cards.

Still we expect the English FA to "investigate" the tweet that Ruben sent out and later deleted as per the story that appeared in The Telegraph today. Read on...

QPR director Ruben Emir Gnanalingam calls referee 'blind and bias' after Joey Barton sent off against Norwich

Queens Park Rangers director Ruben Emir Gnanalingam could face Football Association action for describing Premier League referees as “biased and blind” on Twitter after the dismissal of Joey Barton during the 2-1 defeat by Norwich.

Gnanalingam, who joined the club’s board of directors in August, where he sits alongside chairman Tony Fernandes, posted his tweet just after Barton’s sending-off for an apparent butt on Norwich's Bradley Johnson. “F------ EPL refs are a big load of b-------!” he wrote. “Biased and blind. Thank you for spoiling the game.”

Gnanalingam, a Malaysian businessman who is the chief executive of one of the country’s biggest ports, Westports Malaysia, deleted the tweet within minutes. It is not known how many of his Twitter followers would have seen it.

After the game he sent a tweet to Barton, saying: “We are behind you all the way. Get the lads to keep their heads up and minds focused on the next game. Great goal by the way”.

Gnanalingam’s earlier tweet could land him in trouble, given that this would not be the first time a QPR director has attracted the FA’s attention with a tweet about referees.

In September, after Michael Oliver awarded Aston Villa a penalty during a 1-1 draw at Loftus Road, Fernandes tweeted: “The ref is blind. Two clear handballs”.

In response, the FA wrote to the club to warn them about bringing the game into disrepute. Fernandes was not sanctioned.

QPR would not confirm on Monday night whether Gnanalingam had written the tweet.

ONLY IN BAM

2012-01-02T18:32:00.001+08:00

A year ago Badminton Association of Malaysia was in the news for the wrong reasons.

It was because Datuk Misbun Sidek had quit BAM, something this blog had predicted on September 6, 2010.

Over the year BAM were involved in major controversial matters, topping it was taking away the right of doubles pair Gan Teik Chai/Tan Bin Shen from participating in the World Championships, something that the public were aghast when they found out.

One would expect BAM to handle crisis much better, but creating crisis seems to be the niche in administrative abilities.

For they had an open ended advertisement for the High Performance Directors position, something two top BAM officials were hell bent on taking away from Dato James Selvaraj.

Fine it is your right to advertise but why were there so many different reports on the number of applicants for the BAM Secretary had on a TV talk show commented that there were 16 applicants.

Now one paper reports that there were 20, another says 19, the third says 17 and even the number to call for interview is a guessing game with some saying 4,5 and so forth.

What the paper did get wrong was the date for the interview as its on Tuesday Jan 3 and not Monday Jan 2.

On top of that BAM have called in persons who did not apply as two of the candidates, one whom I can name as Wong Ah Jit, did not apply but were approached by BAM.

Now it goes to show the sincerity of the BAM officials, for the interview is a hogwash as they have initiated discussions with NSI for Ah Jit's services.

Now that alone is something for MACC to ponder for BAM is misleading the public and there is an element of fraud by advertising and not letting the due process take place by letting those who applied by considered.

If from the 16 original applicants no one is deemed to be qualified, them only head hunting should start.

And let me clear the air, never did I ever even consider applying for the position so cut the bull of a story that a BAM official is spreading.

Changes in BAM, it can only happen when we fail to make the Thomas Cup and not win gold in London.

BAM ‘pilih kasih’

2011-12-30T09:32:00.003+08:00

The heading simply means double standards. And that is what Malaysia's top Malay daily tabloid Harian Metro is implying on the Badminton Association of Malaysia.

The fact that BAM has some preferred players has been obvious but the main stream papers have been somewhat cajoled into not writing the truth. There are so many "little napoleons" with BAM that one can be forgiven if the phrase warlord and godfathers is used to describe ongoings in sports scenario.

The article meanwhile outlines the fact that players are punished just because they are aligned to a private club, KLRC in particular, and while all kind of rules of engagement are used against players donning the KLRC name, some others are treated with tender gloves, akin to these players having some kind of special protection.

Yes, BAM will come out with all sorts of theories and denials, yet how will they evade this scenario, especially since a statement was made on TV that World Junior Champion Zulfadli Zulkifli will not find a place in the Thomas Cup squad.

Now I wonder what criteria was used to determine this when the same person came out and said that the performances of the last six months will count towards determining the Thomas and Uber Cup squads. So how is it that Julia Wing is not being considered although she has a higher ranking then some BAM players.

The best should represent the country, that we all agree, but not TWO people in BAM. They play politics and have vested interests, simple. Who cares about their so called motto that they have been serenading all the while - in the interest of the nation, what a load of bull.

ADAKAH Persatuan Badminton Malaysia (BAM) mengamalkan sistem ‘'pilih kasih’ terhadap pemain yang keluar meninggalkan badan induk badminton negara itu, apabila dengan sengaja menetapkan syarat berbeza.

Contoh terbaik isu Tan Chun Seang yang diharamkan menyertai kejohanan di Asia selepas bertindak keluar dari BAM manakala hak Gan Teik Chai-Tan Bin Shen dirampas daripada beraksi di Kejohanan Dunia 2010 yang sehingga kini dikatakan masih belum ada penyelesaian selain isu pelbagai syarat dikenakan terhadap Zakry Latif-Fairuzizuan Tazari andai mereka ingin berlatih bersama skuad negara di Bukit Kiara secara berkala.

Syarat yang dikenakan terhadap lima pemain disebutkan itu sekadar contoh yang mungkin dihadapi lebih ramai pemain sebelum ini tetapi yang menjadi kemusykilan mengapa gandingan adik-beradik Ng Hui Lin-Ng Hui Ern bebas berlatih bersama skuad negara meskipun sudah keluar dari BAM.

Apakah kerana ada ‘payung’ besar yang memayungi sehingga BAM tidak berani mengatakan tidak kepada mereka? Hui Lin-Hui Ern, kedua-duanya sedang melanjutkan pelajaran di United Kingdom pulang bercuti di tanah air bebas berlatih tanpa syarat di Bukit Kiara tidak seperti pemain yang disebutkan tadi.

Hui Lin yang ditemui mengakui BAM tidak meletakkan syarat untuk dia menjalani latihan di Bukit Kiara setiap kali pulang ke Malaysia.

“Saya dan Hui Ern seperti sebelum ini, menjalani latihan dengan pasukan kebangsaan tapi kami bukan lagi bernaung di bawah BAM,” kata Hui Lin.

Meskipun dua adik-beradik ini tidak bernaung di bawah mana-mana kelab atau persatuan lain, mereka tetap mengikuti pertandingan di Eropah dalam tempoh melanjutkan pelajaran.

Perbezaan antara dua beradik ini dengan pemain yang lain hanyalah status majikan (kelab). Mungkin mereka tidak perlukan majikan kerana ada ibu bapa yang berkemampuan untuk membiayai mereka.

Apapun, hakikatnya Hui Lin-Hui Ern sudah keluar dari BAM dan hal itu disahkan sendiri Pengurus Besar BAM, Kenny Goh yang mengatakan kedua-dua pemain terbabit meninggalkan badan induk badminton negara, Oktober lalu tetapi masih mendapat hak berlatih di Bukit Kiara tanpa syarat.

Tidak dinafikan tidak ada salahnya untuk Hui Lin-Hui Ern berlatih bersama skuad kebangsaan meskipun mereka tidak lagi bernaung di bawah BAM tetapi mengapa pemain lain dikenakan pelbagai syarat.

Adik-beradik itu yang melanjutkan pelajaran di Universiti Larborough dalam jurusan ekonomi mengambil bahagian dalam Kejohanan Antarabangsa Wales dan Ireland dan muncul juara dalam acara beregu wanita di kedua-dua kejohanan terbabit.

Seperti pernah ditegaskan Setiausaha Kehormat BAM, Ng Chin Chai sebelum ini, dua beradik itu tetap dianggap atlet kebangsaan, namun menjadi persoalan mengapa kedua-duanya tidak menggunakan jersi Malaysia ketika bertanding di Eropah? “Kami bertanding di Eropah dengan menggunakan nama Malaysia tapi kami tidak menggunakan jersi negara,” akur Hui Lin.

Jika benar mereka masih dianggap atlet kebangsaan seharusnya ada penetapan supaya mereka mengikut garis panduan ditetapkan ketika mewakili negara oleh BAM.

SMASHED ADVERT

2011-12-28T21:51:00.001+08:00

Having seen the Maybank advert on TV, I did some research on the Internet with regards to the smash record. And really if some in BAM or Maybank would have done the same then we could have potentially avoided a wrongful or mis-representation of an advert.

Read on...

For reasons I will outline below, the official badminton smash record is still 332km/h (206mph).

This record was set by Chinese Badminton Doubles player Fu Haifeng (a left-hander like Boon Heong) in the 2005 Sudirman Cup.

Boon Heong’s and Kawamae’s badminton smash records are significantly faster – is this because these players have much more powerful smashes, or because the ArcSaber Z-Slash is far superior to the Yonex Titanium 10 which Fu Haifeng used when he broke the record in 2005? I think not.

The badminton smash speeds with the ArcSaber Z-Slash are not comparable to Fu Haifeng’s record for three reasons:

Measuring method: High speed video equipment was used in the Yonex speed trials rather than the microwave technology which is used to record shuttlecock speed in matches.

Situation: The smash was not hit during a match. It is much easier to smash harder when the shuttlecock is being fed to you in a relaxed situation.

Unofficial status of readings: The speed was recorded by Yonex rather than by badminton officials.

In fact, even in 2005, Fu Haifeng’s smash was not the fastest badminton smash to have been measured.

At the 2001 Swiss Open, high speed video was used to measure badminton smash speeds in speed tests similar to that performed by Yonex at the Japan Open.

The results (on the internet archive – can take a while to load) included a 364km/h smash from J. Laugesen of Denmark.

But of course Fu Haifeng’s smash was considered to be the official record.

And of course, if Yonex are so confident they’d have compared the ArcSaber Z-Slash to other badminton rackets in the speed test and be publishing those results too.

You can draw your own conclusions about the effect that being in a speed test has on a player’s smash speed, but the technology used in each case is interesting too – so here’s some information about radar guns and high speed video compares for measuring shuttlecock speeds.

The Technology: Radar Guns and High Speed Video

Fu Haifeng’s record badminton smash was measured the same way speeds are measured during all sporting events: using a radar gun, which measures the change in frequency of microwaves bouncing off the moving object (in other words the gun measures the Doppler effect on the microwaves). The advantage of this method is that every shot in a rally can be logged, and the fastest can be displayed as soon as the the rally ends.

The Yonex speeds were measured using high speed video, which requires manual analysis of the speed, so cannot provide instant feedback. For this reason it is more suitable in test situations such as Yonex’ speed test. Here’s the high speed video in action measuring Boon Heong’s 421km/h smash:

This equipment, provided by NAC, typically records video at 300fps, allowing slow motion 6-12x slower than normal speed. This technology was used at the Olympics and is being used increasingly in sports for showing slow-motion replay – regular slow motion in sports coverage is around 3x slower than normal speed – approximately 75fps.

According to their site, their equipment will be used by SKY during their coverage of the All England next year. NAC’s site has a variety of interesting slow motion videos.

So is the big difference between Fu Haifeng’s record and Boon Heong’s badminton smash speed due to the measuring equipment used? Possibly.

Shuttlecocks are light and have high air-resistance, so they slow down significantly over a short distance. Slow-motion video captures can be used to measure the speed at any point in its flight, so Yonex’s measurement presumably measure the speed of the shuttlecock immediately after the initial impact, when it is at its fastest.

I am not convinced that the radar guns used in the Sudirman cup would have captured the speed immediately after impact. I have not been able to find much information on the internet about this – the most relevant information was from a baseball chat forum:

“The Jugs Speed Gun (Fast Gun) will pick up the speed of the fast ball after it has travelled 3.5 feet”

So it’s entirely possible that the radar gun speed measured the shuttlecocks a foot or so after impact, which would means that Fu Haifeng’s smash was actually significantly faster than the 332km/h which was recorded. However, this is pure speculation on my part as I not been able to discover what type of radar gun equipment is used now, let alone during the 2005 Sudirman Cup.

DEAD MAYBANK MALAYSIAN OPEN WEBSITE

2011-12-27T17:24:00.001+08:00

SometimesI wonder if those who call themselves educationalists or experienced badmintonadministrators know what they are doing when it comes to dissemination ofinformation.

NoI am not talking about what happened during a talk show at a pay per view TVstation where the guest was so evasive with regards to the questions posed thateven the main actor in the TV drama series Lie To Me would have a tough timetrying to read this guy.

Butrather the focus is on the Maybank Malaysian Open Badminton Super Series 2012and their so-called official website, the link which is as follows:

http://www.maybankbadmintonopen.com/index.htm

Nowgo onto the website and you will find nothing on the tournament that isnewsworthy, not even a history of the tournament, write up on the sponsors,even biodata of Malaysian players let alone the top players that are coming forthe tournament.

Websitesare supposed to be the epitome for news and promotion of the country. And theso-called consultants from the Tourism Ministry were taken all the way to NewZealand so that they could help prepare and do presentation for the bid for theSudirman Cup, that in reality Malaysia had already won technically since theother bidder Australia had withdrawn two days prior to the BWF meeting.

Itis bad enough that the BAM website just collects news from newspapers andpastes them and frequently is down due to exceeded bandwidth.

Andhere you have a website that is something similar to what Malaysian HockeyFederation and the 1MAS website has – absolutely zilch.

Itis easy to talk about something one does not know, so while I will not talkabout badminton coaching, I feel that I have much more experience in websitesand sports management that some who claim that they do not slander me.

Myex-friend who claims that you have never slandered me, and the administratorwho cannot reason objectively, this is nothing personal, but it is clear thatyou have no inkling on what you are doing.

It is easy to claim in the interest of thenation, but if this website is in the interest of the nation, I do hope you arewatching this little space Maybank, for you are being taken for one hellof a ride.

KELADAK BAM

2011-12-26T22:34:00.001+08:00

That was the keyword in the story carried by Utusan Malaysia quoting Dato Misbun Sidek as to why he would not return to the Badminton Association Malaysia.

The para in the story is repeated here below:

"Perkara ini (permintaan Chong Wei) sebenarnya tidaklah susah sangat, tetapi hendak membersihkan 'keladak' itu yang susah. Ketika saya hendak keluar dulu, ada keladak yang kena dicuci, kemudian ia bersih dan perlu dicuci semula.

Now the little I know of Bahasa and from what I gathered after asking other journalists, "keladak" literally means algae or residue.

And if one were to read the quote, then it is clear that Misbun was hinting at some personalities within BAM that are hanging on to their positions and creating a divide in Malaysian badminton.

Now I was privileged to sit with Misbun for well over two hours, some three months before he quit BAM and I feel it is time that the details of those conversations be made public.

Trust me when I say that some officials in BAM will not sleep easy as they have portrayed that they are saving badminton but in reality are taking it to another notch, below.

What have you delivered in the past two years in charge, well you cannot even get the media to carry players wearing Maybank logos on the shirts in the print media.

Or is it done to please the master?

MAU KERJA

2011-12-23T19:52:00.001+08:00

Well the Malaysian Athletic Union will be conducting walk in interviews on December 30 from 10am onwards at the National Stadium ( next to the Yakeb office).

The position to be filled is as the General Manager.

Registration is at 10am and the panel will commence the interviews at 11am.

This transparent exercise is in stark contrast to the questionable manner in which the Badminton Association of Malaysia has handled the process of picking their High Performance Director.

Well what say you BAM? At least MAU are transparent...

MEDIA SPOKESPERSON FOR FAM

2011-12-21T22:13:00.001+08:00

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) must inform the Negeri Sembilan Football Association in writing if the floodlights at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium in Paroi did not meet the specifications and not just announce it in the newspapers.

Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan who is also the Negeri Sembilan FA President said he only came to know of the matter after reading the newspapers Wednesday.

"I didn't know.....but according to reports that I received, inspection was carried out two or three times at the stadium and everyone said it was okay. What is not up to the mark? If it did not meet the specification, they (FAM) should have told us a long time ago and not now when the season is about to kickoff," he told reporters here today.

Mohamad Hasan was commenting on newspapers reports today that the floodlights at the Kota Baharu, Kuala Terengganu and Paroi stadiums did not meet the specification set by the FAM.

Mohamad Hasan said the state FA should have been informed in writing and not release it to the newspapers.

"I as the president of the Negeri Sembilan FA was not aware of the matter....I only knew about it after reading the newspapers. Who is playing? The newspapers or the Negeri Sembilan team? he asked.

WHY THE DELAY NSC?

2011-12-13T08:03:00.001+08:00

Malaysia is my country, says Zulfadli

BY: HARESH DEOL

KUALA LUMPUR: World and Asian junior champion Zulfadli Zulkifli has been offered to play for the United States in the Thomas Cup.

Internal bickering and the failure to acknowledge Zulfadli's efforts could prompt the youngster to don Uncle Sam’s colours.

Zulfadli is yet to receive his incentives estimated at RM50,000 since last year.

However, the Los Angeles-born lad does not want to turn his back on Malaysia — not at the moment, anyway.

Zulfadli’s dad Zulkifli Sidek, who is also his coach, confirmed his son was approached by the US Badminton Association and a US player. They want to strengthen the US team for the Thomas Cup.

It is pertinent to point out Zulkifli used to train the US team from 1990-94.

"My son said no. He wants to play for Malaysia and I guess he pretty much made up his mind,” said Zulkifli.

“I also want Zulfadli to play for Malaysia and I’m happy he made that choice.

"But I hope to see Zulfadli in the Malaysian team for next year's Thomas Cup, even as a reserve.”

BAM have yet to name the squad for the Thomas Cup in May 20-27 in Wuhan, China.

Former junior player Arif Latiff was part of the Thomas Cup team in 2008.

Zulfadli was apparently approached by an official during last year’s Thomas and Uber Cups held in KL. The USA team played in the Uber Cup.

American player Howard Bach followed up later to ask Zulfadli to consider playing for US as they “lacked singles players”.

Zulfadli, who plays under the KLRC banner, is yet to receive his incentives since winning honours for the country last year.

Zulfadli was the placed third in the 2010 Asia Junior championships and the national team were runnersup in the same competition.

This year, he won the World and Asian junior championships and the Commonwealth Youth Games.

Zulkifli insisted his son was not demanding the incentives but found it strange how quickly Sea Games medal-winners were rewarded in a pomp affair.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak graced that ceremony at the Juara Stadium in Bukit Kiara on Friday.

Zulfadli is preparing for the India Open GP Gold (Dec 20-25) before heading to the US for a training cum holiday stint.

NEW WEBSITE

2011-12-09T09:19:00.001+08:00

It is with great pleasure and pride that I wish to inform you that I will now be administering the website www.hockey-asia.com.

This website was developed by Jaap Syuk and he has handed over the site for me to maintain and further develop. And I am grateful and indebted to him for having the faith and confidence in letting me take over the site without any cost involved.

In order to develop the site, I will need to fund it and hopefully there will be sponsors who will back me up. And I hope to merge my blogs into the tie to make it a one stop site for hockey fans.

At a time hockey administrators in my own country lack faith in my ability, it's good to note that foreigners are willing to hand over years of hard work of their own for me to explore or the benefit of hockey in Malaysia and Asia.

I hope to start updating the site from this Monday and the Sea Cup in Myanmar next week will be provided coverage as I intend to be there, with or without sponsors secured.

On another note please log on to www.malaysianhockey.blogspot.com where there are two articles on the Olympic Qualifiers process as well as the next Champions Challenge 1. The articles provide insight on issues raised in the main stream media of late.

Read on and thank you.

CHANGE OF DATES

2011-12-07T20:37:00.001+08:00

Seems that SUKMA dates have been changed from May to July, more precisely from July 4 to July 15.

Sukma Pahang will feature 24 events, 19 compulsory sports and five choice namely boxing, volleyball, petanque, equestrian and golf with participation of 14 state contingents and Brunei.

All sporting events will take place in four districts of Kuantan, Pekan, Rompin and Temerloh with 80 percent of the events held in Kuantan.

Funny thing the NSC, the guardians of Sukma are quiet on this news and have wrecked havoc on the domestic calendar.

HIGH PERFORMANCE DIRECTOR OF CLERK?

2011-12-01T14:30:00.001+08:00

The Badminton Association of Malaysia has advertised for a High Performance Director position, as seen in the advert below.

It is not a new position but one that key personalities were eager to fill so that they could get rid of Dato James Selvaraj who holds the position currently.

Just look at the job description and see if it fits requirements of a HPD, And mind you the advert has no closing date so take your time to apply.

Now have a look at part of a HPD criteria that Canadian Fencing has requested for in its advert. See that stark difference in job decscription.

One key element is the reporting line as the BAM wants the High Performance Director to report to the General Manager, someone who has always advocated that he is an educationalist and has over the past few months went to great lengths to slander this blogger.

So my question to the great BAM leaders, are you looking for a clerk or a High Performance Director?

ROYAL WARNING

2011-11-28T23:13:00.001+08:00

Teams aspiring to sign up foreign players for the forthcoming Malaysian Super League have been warned to adhere to procedures and guidelines that are in place lest run foul of regulations.

In issuing this warning, Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, the Deputy President Football Association of Malaysia said that using unregistered or unqualified player agents could affect the registration process as it would run foul of FIFA regulations governing Players Agents.

It is a timely piece of advice as there is a sudden influx of foreign players undergoing trials with several teams aspiring to sign foreign players.

"I hope all the teams are aware of the needs and requirements before bringing in imported players," said Tengku Abdullah when contacted in Johannesburg where he is watching the Malaysian Hockey team in action in the Champions Challenge I tournament.

"All teams are advised to use only FIFA Official Players Agents. This is to protect their interest as well and I hope there will be no issues pertaining to this.

"The FAM Vetting Committee will have to play their role and I hope all teams and foreign players will collaborate with each other in order to make the FAM administration in order."

There have been reports of some unauthorised personalities and even event management companies bringing in foreign players for trials with several states and clubs.

Tengku Abdullah also voiced his disappointment with the failure of the Olympic Squad to hold on to their two goal advantage against Bahrain in an Olympic qualifiers match at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Sunday.

"Based on past records playing Bahrain has never been in our favor. Still it would have been nice if they had maintained their composure in the last few minutes and win that match," added Tengku Abdullah.

"Maybe it was due to the pressure and weak mental strength that attributed to our defeat. This is where we need to improve on our weaknesses."

LIVE CC 1

2011-11-26T12:43:00.001+08:00

The Malaysia v Canada match will be live on Astro CH 811 today at 5pm

PDRM MAKE SEMIS IN STYLE

2011-11-24T13:38:00.001+08:00

PDRM MAKE SEMIS IN STYLE

PDRM dashed the hopes of the youngsters from Perak when they defeated the silver state 4-1 to qualify for the semi finals of the 5th Raja Noora Ashikin Cup 2011 at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil this morning.

And Johor, the other team from Group A who had a mathematical chance of sneaking through had PDRM failed defeated Seri Titiwangsa 2-0 to complete their matches.

For more: read www.rnacup.blogspot.com

ASIAN, BUT NOT MALAYSIAN PLAYERS FOR QPR

2011-11-23T13:10:00.001+08:00

Neil Warnock is intent on bringing Asian players to Queens Park Rangers as a catalyst to increase the profile of the club.

Warnock wants to sign five players in January in a bid to keep their Barclays Premier League status next season.

"I'm not saying they're all going to be big-name signings but we need numbers in the squad," said the boss.

"If we sign a few players from Asia it will definitely help QPR develop as a brand.

You could spend £10million on a striker and he will not play as well as Heidar Helguson on Saturday, so you have to be careful as a manager.

"By all means we want to improve the squad long-term, as well as the immediate concern."

Since Tony Fernandes took over in August five signings were completed, and the Malaysian businessman is ready to back the club again.

As the clubs popularity grows, Warnock knows looking to Asia is beneficial and he has revealed he went to see three players in action in a World Cup qualifier between United Arab Emirates and South Korea less than two weeks ago.

"By owning a Premier League club Tony has shot up in profile over there. This is the start of something and I feel the club can develop a global presence because of the owners and the contacts they have," added Warnock.

QPR will not be the first team to sign players from Asia as Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal have already registered interest in various players from that continent.

ABANDONED

2011-11-23T07:06:00.001+08:00

The South African men's hockey team's Pre-Champions Challenge warm-up match against Malaysia was called off after 15 minutes when a torrential downpour and lightning engulfed the Randburg Hockey Stadium last night. The score was 1-1 at that stage.

ATM WIN AS JOHOR HELD BY KEDAH

2011-11-22T17:27:00.003+08:00

Armed Forces were back on track in their quest to make the last four of the 5th Raja Noora Ashikin Cup 2011 when they defeated Terengganu 2-0 at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil this morning.

And in the top of the table Group A match, Johor fought back to draw against Kedah in a match that the northerners should have won.

Also registering wins were PDRM who defeated Seri Titiwangsa 6-0 in another Group A match while KL Sukma defeated the young Setia Cougar 5-0 in a Group C match.

for more; read www.rnacup.blogspot.com

RNA CUP 2011

2011-11-22T17:27:00.001+08:00

SINGAPORE EDGE MALACCA AS PAHANG RUN RIOT

Singapore laboured to a 1-0 win over Malacca as Pahang whitewashed SMK Puteri 13-0 at the 5th Raja Noora Ashikin Cup 2011 tournament at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil this evening.

Despite the solitary goal win, the Singaporeans dominated the Group C match and were let down by poor finishing.

For more: read www.rnacup.blogspot.com

RNA CUP 2011

2011-11-17T11:39:00.001+08:00

The 2011 Raja Noora Ashikin Cup will get underway this Sunday at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil. A record number of 15 teams have confirmed participation in the tournament that was inaugurated in 2000 and returns after a five year hiatus.

We have created a dedicated blog to bring you news and updates on the tournament and will provide you with daily reports as well as pictures for the event. Please feel free to visit:

http://rnacup.blogspot.com/

TELL US SOMETHING NEW PLEASE

2011-11-09T01:09:00.000+08:00

Millions were spent on producing a report by the University of Sterling which conducted a survey on the state of affairs of the National Sports associations in the country. Even the amount paid to the University was what was not the government actually paid, so the end product is something that we all know, that the NSC virtually dictates sports in the country.

Sometime after the 2004 Athens Olympics Debacle, the Sports Unit of UPM was also commissioned to come up with a report on the state of affairs of the NSA and the relationship with NSC.

Trust me as I have a copy of the report that neverr saw daylight for it was a no holds barred report.

Basically the content of the current report ( as picked up from Haresh Deol's Blog Foul) states:

The report stated; "… in some cases, it has been reported the NSC funded administrative officer reports primarily back to NSC rather than the board of governors of the NSA. If this is the case, it undermines the governance and management of an NSA and will inhibit development of the organisation ... A significant number of NSAs reported their operational procedures were directed either by a strong president who determined how everything was to be done or that this was imposed upon them by NSC and tied to funding".
According to the report, NSAs revealed they have a small role in the selection of athletes and coach as it is dictated by NSC although the council claim all their activities are done with the approval of the NSA.

Well, the 2004 report, though done by locals, for we always do not trust the prophet from our own land, was far more substantive then this.

Wanna debate on it? Name the place, time and venue Hon. Minister of Youth and Sports and we shall discuss it, at your turf, your homeground and your referees.

Told you once, telling you again, sports is not what is made out to be these days, for its a question of scratching one back, depends on just how overgrown your nails are for its that amount of filth that is being covered up.

CRUZEIRO KEEN ON MALAYSIAN YOUNGSTER

2011-10-25T22:52:00.001+08:00

Brazilian Serie A side Cruzeiro are monitoring the progress of teenage Malaysian football prodigy Kumaahran.

The 15-year-old impressed during a one-month training camp in Brazil last August, and the South American club have now offered him an extended trial stint with them next year.

"Cruzeiro are very interested in bringing down Kumaahran for another stint and we all should be proud of that," Kumaahran's coach Jaino Matos said.

"They are a massive club in Brazil, and it's about time Malaysian teenagers attempt to scale these heights."

As for Kumaahran himself, these chances are not ones that come often and he plans to make the most of it.

"I know that I won't get lots of opportunities like this. But I believe in myself and I feel it's a chance for me to emulate my idol, Santokh Singh, on the international scene," he said.

"Of course my dream is to play for Malaysia one day, but I am also silently praying that I get to sign for Cruzeiro anytime in the future."

"I have already seen how football is like in Brazil. They train differently, they eat differently. They are more efficient in these things. It completely changed my perception of football and I hope to able to continue the learning process by heading there next year."

Matos, who is also Cruzeiro's official representative in Malaysia, believes Kumaahran is a special talent and thinks the youngster is capable of big things.

"I spotted Kumaahran playing futsal with his dad one day and I knew he had something in him. That is why I decided to further polish his talents by sending him to Brazil for that camp in August," Matos said.

NSI TAKEN TO TASK

2011-10-24T18:45:00.001+08:00

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 24 — The National Sports Institute (NSI) paid RM3.94 million for 18 horses that were not qualified to race in the 2008 World Endurance Championship (WEC), the Auditor-General said in his report today.

The report noted NSI had failed to get the Treasury’s approval before buying the horses, as required for direct negotiation purchases.

It further noted NSI had failed to adhere to international rules set by the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), the world governing body for equestrian competitions, which saw the 18 out of 23 horses bought in October 2007 being disqualified from the WEC 2008.

“This was because the horses bought did not undergo adequate training seeing as the purchase was made two months before the championship,” said Auditor-General Tan Sri Ambrin Buang, adding the horses were also found to have suffered from poor health.

The 23 horses cost the NSI RM5.66 million in total.

Malaysia was picked by the FEI in February 2007 to host the WEC 2008, and the NSI was given the task of preparing the horses and athletes using government funds channelled through the National Sports Council (NSC).

The Auditor-General also found the specially-formed WEC 2008 secretariat headed by the NSI director-general to have breached the provisions laid down under the MSC Treasury’s rules.

The report noted the appointment of the secretariat’s chief was not formalised in writing and his powers were also not limited according to any provision.

The selection of horses was conducted by the secretariat, which included the NSI director-general, a veterinarian, a technical and competition officer, and a project manager.

Auditor-General: Putrajaya risked lives in delaying Bukit Jalil stadium roof repair

2011-10-24T15:14:00.006+08:00

From Malaysian Insider

Putrajaya risked public safety when it took four years to approve funds to repair the damaged roof at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium, the Auditor-General said in his report released today.

The report highlighted that the Merdeka Stadium Corporation (MSC), a federal statutory body responsible for the management of all national sports complexes, had applied to repair damage to the
Bukit Jalil Stadium a total of four times since 2006.

The government finally approved RM30 million to repair the damaged stadium (picture) in December last year, the report added.

“The Auditor is of the view the delay in completing the roof repairs at Bukit Jalil National Stadium... was because the government did not approve the allocation applied for since 2006.

“This could jeopardise the comfort of users who would be exposed to the rain and endanger their safety if the roof collapsed especially for international events,” the report said.

The report said the 90,000-capacity stadium had a 10-year warranty for the German-made membrane roof cover, which expired in 2008, but noted MSC could not get a replacement roof because it was damaged by fireworks.

It noted too the stadium, which has hosted 2,100 events between 2008 and 2010, require other immediate repairs and pointed out rusty and loose cable screws holding up the roof.

The MSC had applied to the government twice last year to change its fireworks-damaged roof: the first time on February 8, for a budget of RM40 million; and again on September 20, for RM35 million under the 9th Malaysia Plan (9MP).

The government only granted it RM30 million in December 2010, under the 9MP.

However, the MSC only passed on the repair job to the Public Works Department — through the Youth and Sports Ministry — in April this year, citing lack of technical expertise, the Auditor-General’s Report said.

It urged the government to carry out immediate repairs to avoid endangering lives further.

This is not the first time a stadium has come under public scrutiny.

In June 2009, the Terengganu state stadium’s roof collapsed, damaging several cars, shortly over a year after it was officially opened by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin.

NSC, NSI TAKEN TO TASK BY AUDITOR GENERAL

2011-10-24T15:01:00.000+08:00

The Auditor General Report for 2010 has been released today. I suggest that sports officials and administrators take a look at the findings.

Below is just part of the report:

4.2    OBJEKTIF PENGAUDITAN

Pengauditan ini dijalankan untuk menilai sama ada pengurusan geran sukan telah dirancang dan dilaksanakan secara cekap dan teratur selaras dengan objektif yang ditetapkan.

4.3    SKOP DAN METODOLOGI PENGAUDITAN

Pengauditan ini meliputi aspek pengurusan pemberian geran sukan kepada Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan dan Program Sukan bagi tahun 2008 hingga 2010. Pengauditan dijalankan dengan menyemak rekod dan dokumen yang berkaitan termasuk penyata kewangan serta rekod Persatuan Sukan yang dipilih. Persatuan Sukan yang berkenaan adalah Persatuan Kongres Tenpin Boling Malaysia, Persatuan Golf Malaysia, Persatuan Skuasy Malaysia, Majlis Olimpik Malaysia, Persekutuan Gimnastik Malaysia, Persatuan Pelayaran Malaysia dan Kesatuan Olahraga Malaysia. Di samping itu, lawatan Audit dan temu bual dengan pegawai MSN turut diadakan.

4.4    PENEMUAN AUDIT

Pengauditan yang dijalankan antara bulan Oktober hingga Disember 2010 mendapati beberapa kelemahan dalam pengurusan geran sukan kepada Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan. Antara kelemahan yang diperhatikan adalah kelewatan membuat pembayaran kepada Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan; garis panduan pemberian geran sukan tidak disediakan dengan lengkap; perbelanjaan bagi program World Endurance Championship 2008 diluluskan oleh pegawai yang tidak mempunyai kuasa; rundingan terus perolehan dilaksanakan tanpa kelulusan Kementerian Kewangan; perolehan kuda untuk kejohanan World Endurance Championship 2008 tidak mencapai objektifnya; geran pendahuluan sirkuit yang dibatalkan tidak dipulangkan sepenuhnya dan pemantauan prestasi pemberian geran sukan tidak memuaskan. Penjelasan lanjut mengenai kelemahan yang dibangkitkan adalah seperti berikut:

4.4.1    Pengurusan Geran Sukan

Peruntukan geran sukan untuk sesuatu tahun dirancang berdasarkan program sukan yang akan dilaksanakan oleh MSN dan kesemua Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan. Bahagian Atlet bertanggungjawab untuk mengurus pemberian geran sukan kepada Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan. Dari tahun 2008 hingga 2010, sejumlah RM215.41 juta telah diluluskan oleh Jawatankuasa Bantuan MSN untuk diagihkan kepada Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan yang terlibat.

4.4.1.1    Pemberian Geran Kepada Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan

Kementerian Belia dan Sukan telah menyalurkan peruntukan program penyediaan atlet di bawah Kumpulan Wang Amanah Sukan berjumlah RM236.50 juta kepada MSN dari tahun 2008 hingga 2010. MSN telah membelanjakan sejumlah RM208.30 juta atau 88.1% daripada jumlah peruntukan yang diterima. Peruntukan geran sukan untuk sesuatu tahun dirancang berdasarkan program sukan yang akan dilaksanakan oleh MSN dan Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan. Di MSN, Bahagian Atlet bertanggungjawab untuk mengurus pemberian geran sukan kepada Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan. Setiap Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan perlu mengemukakan permohonan geran sukan kepada MSN berdasarkan program kejohanan atau program latihan yang telah dirancang. MSN akan membincangkan permohonan tersebut dalam mesyuarat Jawatankuasa Kerja dan Jawatankuasa Program bagi menyemak program yang dicadangkan oleh Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan. Seterusnya,
permohonan tersebut dikemukakan kepada Jawatankuasa Bantuan (JKB) yang dipengerusikan oleh Ketua Pengarah MSN bagi membincangkan dan meluluskan peruntukan yang dipohon. Peruntukan yang diluluskan dalam JKB akan dimaklumkan kepada Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan. Dari tahun 2008 hingga 2010, sejumlah RM215.41 juta telah diluluskan oleh Jawatankuasa Bantuan untuk diagihkan kepada Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan yang terlibat melalui Bahagian Atlet.

4.4.4    Geran Program Binaan Atlet

Bahagian Pelapis MSN bertanggungjawab untuk mengenal pasti bakat dan menyediakan latihan atlet daripada peringkat pembangunan kepada peringkat elit. Bahagian ini telah diperuntukkan sejumlah RM79.70 juta dari tahun 2008 hingga 2010 dan telah membelanjakan sejumlah RM79.90 juta sehingga akhir tahun 2010. Semakan Audit mendapati MSN telah memperuntukkan sejumlah RM3.65 juta bagi Program Binaan Atlet pada tahun 2008. Bagaimanapun, peruntukan tersebut tidak digunakan untuk tujuan asal sebaliknya sejumlah RM2.25 juta atau 61.6% telah dibelanjakan bagi membiayai pengiklanan mempromosikan sukan teras di media elektronik dan cetak kepada penonton.

Pada pandangan Audit, MSN hendaklah menggunakan geran yang diperuntukkan untuk Program Binaan Atlet bagi mencapai matlamat yang ditetapkan. Peruntukan sepatutnya digunakan untuk aktiviti pembangunan atlet pelapis dan bukan untuk membiayai pengiklanan.

4.4.5    Pemantauan

Pemantauan adalah penting bagi memudahkan pihak pengurusan mengenal pasti kelemahan dan masalah pada peringkat awal serta mengambil tindakan segera bagi menyelesaikannya. Semakan Audit mendapati perkara berikut:

a. Mesyuarat Jawatankuasa Bantuan pada bulan April 2009 telah bersetuju mewujudkan Unit Pemantauan untuk memantau Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan yang menerima geran sukan. Unit tersebut masih belum ditubuhkan sehingga akhir tahun 2010. MSN memaklumkan unit tersebut baru ditubuh dan bermesyuarat pada 5 April 2011.

b. Semua program dan perbelanjaan sukan yang menggunakan geran hendaklah dibentangkan dalam mesyuarat Lembaga Pengarah MSN. Bagaimanapun, laporan prestasi tersebut tidak dibentang dalam mesyuarat Lembaga Pengarah MSN kerana tidak dikemukakan oleh Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan.

c. MSN tidak memantau prestasi program dan perbelanjaan geran sukan yang diberi kepada Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan bagi memastikan geran yang dibelanja mengikut permohonan yang diluluskan.

Pada pandangan Audit, MSN perlu membuat pemantauan bagi memastikan Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan membelanjakan geran yang diberi untuk tujuan yang ditetapkan. Sehubungan itu, satu Unit Pemantauan yang baru ditubuh hendaklah bertanggungjawab memantau pelaksanaan program latihan dan kejohanan dalam dan luar negara.

4.5    RUMUSAN DAN SYOR AUDIT

Secara keseluruhannya, pengurusan geran sukan MSN tidak diurus dengan baik. Sehubungan itu, MSN perlu mengambil tindakan terhadap kelemahan yang dibangkitkan. Pihak Audit mengesyorkan perkara berikut:

4.5.1    Peruntukan geran sukan hendaklah dirancang berdasarkan program sukan yang akan dilaksanakan oleh MSN dan Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan supaya peruntukan yang disediakan mencukupi.

4.5.2    Garis Panduan dan prosedur kerja terhadap pemberian geran sukan perlu disediakan untuk membantu pegawai dan pihak tertentu melaksanakan tugas dengan cekap dan sistematik.

4.5.3    Memastikan Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan mengemukakan tuntutan sebaik sahaja sesuatu kejohanan selesai.

4.5.4    Memastikan perolehan secara rundingan terus hendaklah mendapat kelulusan Kementerian Kewangan.

4.5.5 MSN hendaklah memastikan setiap Persatuan Sukan Kebangsaan mengemukakan Penyata Kewangan beraudit untuk memantau program yang dilaksana mengikut geran yang diberi.

WHAT NEXT BAM?

2011-10-24T09:01:00.001+08:00

The results from the Danish Open will eventually open a can of worms in the badminton fraternity.

For the opening round defeat of the top doubles pair Koo Kien Keat/ Tan Boon Heong and the loss suffered by Lee Chong Wei in the final surely will send some at BAM scurrying for answers.

Let's see what the Coaching and Training Committee comes up with as it is fond of making decisions, many a time one that baffles pundits.

For example when did the BAM Exco or Council meet and decided that the Ng sisters could leave the BAM fold?

Was that decision taken by individuals who have vested interests?

And how is it that others even are banned from playing for wanting to leave BAM while some can go in and out to their whims and fancies?

Coming back to BAM and their selective persecutions, it is a wonder that BAM merely slapped on the wrist a player who walked off the court during the National Grand Prix finals.

It was a clear case of indiscipline and BAM probably endorses indiscipline as walking off the court for any reason is inexcusable.

So coming back to the defeat of Chong Wei, is there more then what meets the eye?

Let's wait and see if the experts can figure it out and be objective in their disclosure.

THE PERILS OF ACL

2011-10-14T13:20:00.004+08:00

After knee reconstruction surgery, half of people who played sports both competitively and just for fun don't perform as well as they used to, according to an Australian study.

Of more than 300 men and women who had the surgery, a third stopped playing sports entirely and 68 who were still active said they didn't play as well as before, researchers reported in the American Journal of Sports Medicine.

The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is the ligament inside the knee that helps keep the joint stable. About 150,000 ACL injuries occur each year in the United States.

"Less than 50 percent of the study sample had returned to playing sport at their preinjury level or returned to participating in competitive sport when surveyed at 2 to 7 years after ACL reconstruction surgery," wrote Clare Ardern at La Trobe University in Victoria, Australia, who led the study.

Ardern and her colleagues followed more than 300 men and women for two to seven years. Participants had either played Australian-rules football, basketball, netball or soccer before their surgeries.

At 39 months post-surgery, 208 out of the 314 people who had the operation were still playing a sport, the researchers said.

Of those 208, 68 said they played at a lower level than before their injury and 140 said they played about the same as before their injury. The remaining 106 participants either were not playing sports or did not complete the entire study.

"Although almost all people returned to playing some form of sport, they did not play continuously for many years after their surgery," Ardern told Reuters Health in an email.

She also noted there may be other reasons why people stopped playing sports, such as fear of getting injured again or less confidence in performing.

Of the 196 people who played competitive sports before their injury, 91 returned to their competitive sport.

"This is a big injury," said Edward McDevitt, a spokesman for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, who was not part of the study.

"Many athletes who choose surgery have a long and difficult road to face. If you're not willing to go through it, then you might be better off just getting a brace."

He added that while knee surgery does allow people to return to their sport, they couldn't perform as well as doctors might wish. People who tear the ACL can either opt for physical therapy and surgery or just physical therapy alone.

"Some people find that they are able to function well without surgery, provided they have adequate leg strength to support the injured knee," Ardern said.

"Other alternatives may be to avoid sports involving direction changes, jumping and landing or activities that make the knee feel unstable, or use knee braces and supports."

McDevitt speculates that after surgery, some athletes may not have the same range of motion, preventing them from playing as before.

"I tell my patients, 'I can't make you like before, I'm not God. But I'll do the best I can to restore you back to the way you were,'" he added.

RIP GENDA SINGH

2011-10-10T17:42:00.000+08:00

Genda Singh, the famous national hammer thrower passed away at the University Medical Center last night. He was 89 years old and leaves behind a wife, five sons and a daughter to mourn his loss.

Genda started competing for Malaysia in 1960 and only called it quits after the 1977 SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur. And what was more remarkable was the fact that he won the bronze medal at the 1977 SEA Games when he was 55 years old.

Despite the fact that Genda was nursing an injury, a pectoral muscle tear, he competed at the games against medical advice. Having to rely solely on painkillers and determination, Genda defied all odds in what was his final appearance in the regional meet.

He passed down his knowledge and tips to his son Samret Singh who went on to win the gold medal at the 1985 and 1989 SEA Games, something that Genda could not achieve but was proud to see his son excel.

Samret said that his father’s achievement in competing at the top level until the age of 55 years is unsurpassed by any athlete then and now.

"He was a fighter and never knew when to give up. He always emphasise on excellence and had nothing but the desire to excel in whatever task he undertook. I am happy to have had the opportunity to take over from him. That had been his desire and I am proud to have carried on with the legacy with distinction," he said.

Not many athletes or officials of the present generation were even born when Genda started bringing honours for the country. He was equally good at discuss and shot putt in the 60s and 70s.

Genda came from an era of top athletes, with the likes of Tan Sri Dr Mani Jegathesan, G. Rajalingam, Asir Victor. T. Krishnan, M. Rajamani, Cheryl Dorral, Rajemah Sheikh Ahmad and M. Dataya gracing the sports arena.

Born in India, Genda came to Malaya in 1942 with the Indian Army. He joined the Police Force after World War Two and opted to stay in Ipoh, Perak. He remained a constable until 1977 when he retired from the force.

Those who wish to pay their last respects to the late Genda can do so at his son’s residence at No 2, Jalan BRP 4/10, Bukit Rahman Putra, Sungei Buloh, 47000, Selangor.

The cottage will leave the house at 10.00am on Wednesday to the Jalan Loke Yew Cemetary in Kuala Lumpur. Samret can be contacted at Tel: 012-3377056.

A MOCKERY OF NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

2011-10-06T15:36:00.001+08:00

For any national body, the national championships is the most important event in its calendar as it is where the cream of the corp assembles in order to be crowned as the nations best in that particular sport.

Be it in football where the FA Cup or Malaysia Cup is regarded as the most coveted title, the same applies for hockey where the Tun Razak Cup is accorded as the premier hockey event for states. And the list goes on with the Agong Cup and so forth.

But try asking the blue eyed boys at the Badminton Association of Malaysia who have scheduled their National GP Finals just a day before players leave to participate in the Danish Open which is the start of three grueling weeks of battles for points towards Olympic 2012 qualification.

Some three months ago, BAM came out with a ruling ( they normally have this habit of shifting the posts when faced with a situation that leaves eggs on their face ) that all players, whether in BAM or independent must play in the local GP Circuit.

But having made that rule, it is BAM that stands accused of breaking that rule based on the number of forced withdrawals in the National GP Finals scheduled from 12th to 15th October at Stadium Juara.

World number 1, Dato Lee Chong Wei, who will be playing at the Danish Open, has qualified and according to the final list displayed at the BAM website, will play in the National GP Finals.

But why is it that some top players - the likes of Koo Kien Keat, Tan Boon Heong,Hoon Thien How, Koo Kien Keat, Goh Liu Ying, Ng Hui Lin, Ng Hui Ern, Woon Khe Wei and Lim Khim Wah withdrawn from the GP Finals.

With BAM withdrawing those players, the likes of Mohd Zakry Latif/Fairuzizuan Tazari are deprived of playing alongside their partners who played in the GP Circuit - Tan Boon Heong/Koo Kien Keat.

Now this is what you call double standards, for its okay for BAM players toi withdraw but when independent players opt to do the same, BAM makes a huff and puff about it.

So BAM, since your GP Finals is not important as you can withdraw your own players, why not you just scrap it instead of making a mockery out of it.

THE BLAME GAME

2011-09-27T14:32:00.003+08:00

The constitution of any organisation is sacred and ought to be followed. No matter what my learned friend from the Olympic Council of Malaysia might say, I tend to disagree with the notion that if one holds the majority then the other party must step aside. There is nothing wrong with fighting for a just cause, no matter if the situation looks bad.

Just look at what is happening in MBSF, where there is no respect for the Sports Development Act 1998.

My simple advice to the Minister of Youth and Sports, use the powers vested in you to declare MBSF as irrelevant and if the OCM dare do so on the grounds of not just being seen to do justice but doing justice, lets dissolve MBSF, do as what was done for Taekwando, and call for a fresh body to be set up.

And while all of this is still being pondered, I wonder why there has been no call be the Minister to revert this matter to the Sports Advisory Panel.

Read on the various letters written that cast aspersions on the powers and duties as well as sincerity of the Sports Commissioner. Let there be a thorough investigation and till then Hon. Minister, use your powers and suspend the MBSF.

WAY TO GO DAVID

2011-09-26T17:53:00.001+08:00

Below is a Press Release from BAM. I am carrying this solely because I have much respect for the Development Chairman of BAM, David Wee, who I believe is a person who is sincere in promoting the sport. At least he does not speak with a forked tongue nor has he perfected that art of backstabbing others.

While one applauds the effort, the language could have been better since an educationalist is in charge...

BAM is pleased to announce that it held a Seminar on State Development Programme from 23'd to 24th September 2011 at Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur. The Seminar was attended by 22 representatives lrom 13 State BAs, consisting mainly of the State BAs' secretaries, State BAs' council members and coaches"

The objective of the Seminar is for BAM to inform State BAs' representatives on tho policies, guidelines, administration, finance, training programmes and to gather feedback on different peculiarities of the states.

The Seminar consist of various sessions on planning, administraiion, finance, training prograrnmes, teaching of skills, technical courses, organising and participation in toumaments.

The opening of the Seminar was performed by BAM's Chairman of the Development Committee, Mr. David Wee Toh Kiong and was closed by BAM's Honorary Secretary, Mr" Ng Chin Chai.

The Objectives of the State Development Programme are:- . To continue and enhance the existing State Development Programme partly funded by Majlis Suknn Negara (MSN), State Majlis Suknn Negeri and respective State BAs

To give additional financial assistance to what MSN, State Majlis Sul"ttn Negeri and, BAM are giving currently to State BA To train a larger pool of players from age of 9 to 18 systematieally throughout the country

To assist State BA to improve the level of coaching and where possible to standardise the training programme in all states To enhance the ability of players to be selected into the Bkt. Jalil Sports School and National Back-up Squads Players trained at State who are of higher quality will result in better performance ol national players at international tournaments eg. an Olympic Gold medalist or World Champion must start from the State.

The amount of grant allocated to Peninsular Malaysia States is RM125,600 per year and for
Sabah/Sarawak is RM131,000 per year. The total grant is RM1,643,600 and is to used for the
following expenses:-

1 fulltime coach for every State under BAM payroll Toumament participation in Junior Circuits, Junior Inter-Team and National Open Circuits Organising 2 state close age-group toumaments per year Organising Technical Official courses Other expenses such as courl rental, shuttlecocks, other coaches allowance, administration etc.

General training guidelines formulated:-

Optimum number of trainees per state:-

Under i0. 8boys& 6girls

Under 12 . 10boys& 8girls

Under 14 . 10 boys& 8 girls

Under 16 . 8 boys& 6 girls

Under 18 . 6 boys & 4 girls

Total 42 boys & 32 girls : 74 trainees

Under 10 to train 3 sessions a week Under 12 to U18 to train 5 sessions a week Training sessions should be 2-3 hours Training for players above 12 should include running and resistance (weights) training

At the closing of the Seminar, participants gave feedbacks and based on the feedbacks the following matters were decided:-

BAM will assist State BA to source for foreign coaches, especially Indonesian and Chinese Where available, the full-time coaches can assist in coaching in districts and coaching students in schools
State BA will organise Under 1 1, 13 and 1 5 age groups toumaments at the end of this year to select new talents to be absorbed into the Programme To hold a coaching workshop for full{ime coaches at the end of the year to enhance their knowledge

State coaches will be given opportunity for attachment with the National Training Centre or Bukit Jalil Sports School to gain more experience in coaching BAM to formulate a Training Manual for standardize training in all states Improve coordination between BAM and State administrators and coaches

Lastly, BAM wish to thank Maybank for its recent sponsorship of BAM which made this State Development Programme possible. The Programme will officially commence in October 2011.

TNB HELD AS NUR INSAFI AND MAYBANK WIN

2011-09-25T19:56:00.004+08:00

UniKL scored a last gasp equaliser to hold Tenaga Nasional Berhad to a 3-3 draw at the National Hockey Stadium.

But in reality it was not a point won but rather two wasted for UniKL as they held a 2-0 lead at one stage of the match, only to collapse towards the closing stages, as they did in their 2-1 loss at the hands of Sapura on Friday.

RAW DEAL FOR MAYBANK

2011-09-24T08:31:00.001+08:00

Despite announcing one of the biggest sponsorship deals in July, it looks as if Maybank has been taken for a ride by the Badminton Association of Malaysia.

The deal, inked in June but effective from August saw Maybank taking over the role as the major sponsors of a sport that is expected to deliver the country's first gold medal. And it was reported that the amount for this year alone was some RM6 million.

However if one was to take a look at the returns of investment, and this has nothing to do with the fact of performances by the players, it is so obvious that BAM has the typical "tidak apa" attitude so accustomed to sports bodies that take sponsors for granted yet cry foul and claim national interest should sponsors walk out.

Let's look at how BAM has failed, either on purpose or through sheer ignorance of it's officials who take offense to anyone questioning their rights.

For starters the backdrop at the BAM office still carries the logo of the old sponsor.

And most major dailies still carry pictures of players wearing the attire of the old sponsors.

Perhaps the fact that the key personnel in BAM are just taking orders or doing it for the interest of the nation is baffling.

And BAM cannot even have a proper website in place, more often then not finding it's band with exceeded. And it lacks substance, relying on just news reports carried by the main stream media.

But they key issue here is branding as it is clear that Maybank is the loser as they are pumping in the money yet lack any substantial ROI.

What baffles me more is just whose interest are some officials of BAM serving as the often bandied word is national interests.

Are these, the conspicuous absence of Maybank branding, being done to serve their own interests?

You do not need a marketing guru to teach you about branding and looking after your sponsors, but then when officials in BAM speak with forked tongues then nothing is impossible right.

Claiming ignorance is one thing, being ignorant is another.

While BAM continue their witch hunt with regards to independent players, with officials even threatening players that they cannot use the word Malaysia on their back of the jerseys, they should spend that time doing better for their sponsors as when you travel around the world it's Maybank's money you are using.

The word Malaysia does not belong to you BAM and while no political party had laid claim to it, I see no reason why you prevent Malaysians for promoting Malaysia.

Telling independent players that they can only use Yonex attire at sparring spells arrogance and vested interest on your part.

So while you look after Yonex, it should be ok to wear any other bank name to spar I guess since that's not the condition expressed in writing.

And get your President and Council to come to Juara Stadium using only the national cars please.

What a load of bull!

WEIRD CONDITIONS

2011-09-15T07:53:00.001+08:00

The major dailies today reported on another likely spat between BAM and independent players and it all boils down to sincerity.

The issue at hand is the various unreasonable conditions laid out by BAM for players to spar at BAM.

What is most ludicrous is that BAM will not allow the coaches of the players to be present and that the players must only wear Yonex attire.

Now why not BAM practice what they preach and can be liable for working against national interest.

For rightfully highlighted is the fact that when Denmark held a training and sparring camp here after the world champs last month, were their coaches prevented from going down onto the court or were they told to ditch their sponsors attire?

And above all, knowing that the Danes will be a team to be feared at the Junior World Champs at Taiwan next month, why are they allowed to get an insight to our training methods?

Is this a deliberate attempt by BAM to derail the hopes of Zulfadli Zulkifli at the world champs?

The fact that Zulfadli cannot have his father training him while sparring at BAM while foreigners get full support must surely be viewed seriously by the Minister or NSC DG.

And yes, while talking about promoting or looking after the interest of their sponsors by forcing independent players to wear only Yonex attire, can the BAM officials ensure that from their President downwards to Council members only turn up for meetings in Proton cars.

It is clear that BAM is a rudderless ship, sailing on it's own without direction and are looking more like pirates on the high seas, making the 1 Malaysia slogan a joke as they continue to put a spanner to the hopes of players who just want to play badminton.

For now the C&T is the most powerful committee in BAM and they continue to ignore the provisions of the BAM constitution.

It is egos that kill sports in this country and you will find the biggest egos in BAM, in the interest of the nation.

And another point to note, BAM it seems has prevented independent players from displaying the wording Malaysia at the back of their shirts during competitions. And which nations interest are you looking at since independent players in Europe are allowed to display the name of their country,

Proud to be Malaysian but deprived of it due to ego of some.

BAM SCARED OF IT'S OWN SHADOW

2011-09-08T19:49:00.001+08:00

It is clearly a case of high handedness on the part of BAM officials as they have shown that they are masters of shifting goalposts.

While the case of Gan Teik Chai and Tan Bin Shen is still in the process of mediation thus making it sub judice to discuss it, the decision by the C&T Committee, which mind you is the all powerful body of BAM- even higher then the Council, will leave readers baffled and realize what the true intentions of BAM are.

For effective now, independent players who come to spar at BAM cannot be accompanied by their coaches or trainers, meaning that if you are invited to someone's house, you are not allowed to bring along anyone else, not even your parents.

The rationale that this BAM official put forward is that it creates uneasiness. Well if Malaysians start to treat fellow Malaysians in such a manner, then we might as well throw the 1 Malaysia concept out.

And the best is saved for the last, for any player not in good standing with BAM ( read straight and not in between the lines ), he will not be allowed to spar at BAM.

Get the message!

Well it is clear that these two officials have shown that the adage in the interest of the nation is pure bull for it's their and their henchmen interest that comes first.

So much for talking about working alongside to help badminton when it's obvious cementing their position is more vital then everything else.

Well the whole world is getting rid of dictators but in Malaysia we have some wanna be dictators in the making.

SNAKE IN BAM?

2011-09-06T16:32:00.001+08:00

Well if you are thinking that there is a two legged snake in the Badminton Association of Malaysia, then you are assuming things.

For literally the slithering creature actually made an appearance at the BAM office in Stadium Juara this afternoon.

A staff of BAM was about to photostat some documents when he noticed the tail of the snake near the top of the machine.

It was about a foot long and another BAM staff managed to capture it into an empty tube of shuttlecocks before they released it outside.

Well that's one snake out of the way. But question marks arise with regards to the upkeep of our sports facilities, with the snake incident coming soon after two players lost money at the hostel in Bukit Kiara.

An omen perhaps before the C&T Meeting on Thursday, that there are snakes within the fold? Food for thought!

ZAKRY-FARIZZIZUAN JOIN KLRC

2011-09-04T15:02:00.000+08:00

MohdZakry Abdul Latif and Mohd Fairuzizuan Tazari today announced that they hadsigned up with professional outfit KLRC.

Theduo, which announced their departure from Badminton Association of Malaysia onAugust 20, 2011, said that their decision to join KLRC was made on Friday.

Andthey also made it clear that the decision to be part of KLRC was made onlyafter the BAM had given their consent to leave the national set-up.

“Weopted for KLRC as they have in place a program that best suits our needs. Itwas we who approached them as we knew that KLRC was a club that would help usachieve our dreams of playing at the London Olympics next year,” said Zakry atthe KLRC Hari Raya Open House today.

“Havingannounced our decision to leave BAM last month, we had considered severaloptions but found that KLRC was best suited for us. And it was just before HariRaya that we approached KLRC and held discussions.”

The duo savored the best moments of their careerwhen they won back-to-back titles – the Singapore and Indonesian Super Seriesin 2008 preached as high as No. 4 in the world rankings at one stage.

Fairuzizuan said that they had considered theiroptions before deciding to become independent players.

“ It was not an easy decision to make butsomething we had to do as we too have dreams and are willing to work hard toachieve them,” said Fairuzizuan.

“ Having opted to become independent, we knowthat it will be tough but with the guidance of KLRC, we believe that ourmission to be a feared pair will materialize.

Theywill train at the New Vision Badminton Academy with the rest of the KLRCplayers and also utilize the sparring opportunities with BAM players at StadiumJuara thrice a week.

Thefirst tournament that the pair will play together will be at the IndonesianGrand Prix Gold in Kalimantan from the 27^th September to 2^ndof October.

Theyare also scheduled to participate in French Super Series, Denmark Open PremierSeries, Hong Kong Super Series, China Open Premier Series, Macau Open GrandPrix Gold, Korean Open Grand Prix Gold and India Open Grand Prix Gold thisyear.

Statement From Dato’ SriAndrew Kam

Director of KLRC Berhad:

"Weare happy that Zakry and Fairuzizuan have opted to join KLRC and I mustreiterate that this was done on their own accord. We at KLRC spare no effortsto help them achieve their dream of playing in the 2012 London Olympics.

Asprofessional players it will not be easy and much depends on the effort they arewilling to put in. Our task is to ensure that players are given theopportunities to achieve their desired goals and ambition.

Thepair has indicated that they still have the desire to play top-level badmintonand KLRC wants to give them a platform so as to enable Zakry and Fairuzizuan achievestheir desired goals.

Ourpolicy has always been to help talented individuals to excel and our commitmenttowards this is reflected in the number of junior and senior players we havesponsored over the years.

KLRC Berhad has always supported the promotion and development of badminton inthe country in particular and the world. Hence we look towards complementingthe efforts of the national body in uplifting the standard of badminton inMalaysia. “

PLAYERS WITH KLRC BERHAD

Singles

1. Muhammad Hafiz Hashim – Malaysia

2. Zulfadli Zulkifli - Malaysia

3. K. Yogendran - Malaysia

4. Julia Wong – Malaysia

5. Petya Nedelcheva - Bulgaria

6. Anastasia Russikh – Russia

7. Karyn Velez - USA

8. Yasmin Cury – Brazil

9. Irina Inozemtseva– Russia

10. Malvinne Poca Alcala – Philippines

Doubles

1. Gan Teik Chai - Malaysia

2. Tan Bin Shen - Malaysia

3. Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif - Malaysia

4. Fairuzizuan Tazari - Malaysia

5. Karen Foo Kune – Mauritius

6. Lotte Jonathans – Holland

AboutKLRC Berhad

KLRCBerhad (formerly known as The KL Racket Club Berhad) was formedwith an intention to enable it to contribute to society in various areas, oneof which is sports.

In sports, KLRC’s contribution is byway of providing sponsorship and funds (for the purpose of education orotherwise) to deserving sportspersons/individuals to assist in nurturing theircapabilities.

KLRC holds the idea that there isvalue in each person and therefore encourages individual development in allareas. Our mission is to foster, support, educate and encourage the developmentof young talents, particularly in the area of racket sports by providing fundsto assist in nurturing their capabilities.

All these are done with the hope of creating a continuous pool of talent whowill one day bring pride and joy to their respective nations in an area whereexcellence by an individual is achievable and whereby champions are made.

The guiding principles that KLRCstrongly believes in, practices and adheres to are the fundamental principlesof Olympism, and the one principle in particular is’ “Every individual musthave the possibility of practicing sport, without discrimination of any kindand in the Olympic spirit which requires mutual understanding with a spirit offriendship, solidarity and fair play”.

NO FROST FOR MALAYSIA

2011-08-31T17:54:00.001+08:00

Morten Frost has quit his position as the head coach of the Danish U19 side.

But contrary to speculations, he is not coming to Malaysian shores for his second tour of duty.

Rather he has accepted the offer from a private firm in Denmark, this leaving Dato James Selvaraj to fight it out with Kwan Yoke Meng as the head of the High Performance Director of BAM.

Oops, was it not that BAM said that the position will be advertised. And technically James contract with BAM ends at midnight on Merdeka Day.

So how is it that his name keeps coming up with regards to a meeting to be held on September 8, the C&T meeting that is ever so important.

But prior to that the BAM has a date to keep with OCM and the independent pair of Gan Teik Chai/ Tan Bin Shen next Monday with regards to the mediation on their exclusion.

Interesting times at BAM, but pity their website has been down the last couple of days for exceeding bandwidth.

SELAMAT HARI RAYA

2011-08-29T09:08:00.001+08:00

Ramadhan is coming to an end now with a day to go. And one of the biggest annual celebrations for all Muslims worldwide will commence.

It will be a celebration of victory for all who succeeded in completing their duties during Ramadhan as well as to welcome the month of Syawal.

I’ll be heading to my hometown for being in KL is like a shopping event or an eat all day session instead of the ambiance you get at our kampungs. Be it as it may I have to make the best of it and enjoy the long holidays.

I’d like to take this opportunity to wish all my family, friends, colleagues and business associates Happy Holidays! and Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, maaf zahir dan batin.

I would like to also apologize for any wrong doings or harsh comments I might have made to everyone. We are only human so are prone to making mistakes.

Do take care of yourself and your loved ones during this festive period, especially if you’re planning to travel long distances.

Check your transportation and make sure you allocate enough time for delays and congestion.

START WITH NSC FIRST

2011-08-28T12:53:00.001+08:00

Reading this article made me laugh as the Minister should really look at the manner NSC bickers with the various national sports associations.

By the way YB, what happened to your Sports Advisory Panel? Sleeping or into hibernation?
KEMAMAN, Aug 27 (Bernama)-- Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek Saturday told the badminton fraternity in the country to stop bickering and move forward.

He told the parties having differences to settle them amicably so as not to jeopardise development of badminton, the sport likely to bring Malaysia's first Olympics gold medal.

Ahmad Shabery was referring to the various problems that have beset the sport of late, which included key players making an exodus from the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) to become independent professionals and the latest , the controversy of over the training methods of doubles coach Rexy Mainaky.

Some quarters had alleged that his methods were not doing much good for Malaysia's top doubles pair Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong but the coach has denied it.

Ahmad Shabery, who was speaking to reporters after after a Ramadan function at Sungai Pergam here, added that if need be, he would be calling up the disputing parties after Aidifiltri so that the problems could be ironed out.
.

WE ARE BACK

2011-08-24T21:41:00.003+08:00

Please visit www.tnbmhl.com.my - the UNOFFICIAL website for the Malaysian Hockey League.

The 2011 Malaysian Hockey League is set to commence on September 17.And as was the case last year, this website is a stand alone website as negotiations with the MHF collapsed even before they could commence with various conditions being imposed thus we had to decline the offer to make this an official site. Still we believe that hockey fans will make this their first stop to follow the news on the MHL. Sponsors are welcomed and teams in the MHL are encouraged to adopt this website as their own. We are prepared to allow panel ads on the website by the teams or their sponsors for a nominal fee.

So it will be another journey without much assistance from the sponsors and we will thrive to bring you the news on the MHL, with a new feature of video interviews with coaches and players, both pre and post games. And now for some news on the forthcoming MHL that you would have only read here first.

TALK TO CLUBS MINISTER

2011-08-22T21:49:00.001+08:00

Players leaving the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) will only make it more difficult to find new talent of the calibre of Datuk Lee Chong Wei, said Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

He said the situation (exodus from BAM) put the ministry in a dilemma as to whether to continue funding BAM or invest directly in the players who opted to leave the main badminton body in the country.

"Many people are asking about who will fill the top players shoes. In the latest case yesterday, our number two men's doubles quit the BAM and this situation is making it difficult for the government to help the sport," he said when met after a breaking of the fast function at Centre Point here Monday.

He said professional badminton players in the country had yet to reach the stage where they could fully rely on sponsorship and prize money to develop their careers.

"That is why I am very concerned about this issue (players deciding to go their own way). If more talented players are outside the ambit of BAM, the government will find it difficult to help in the development of badminton," he said.

On Saturday, BAM president Datuk Seri Nadzmi Salleh told the media that Malaysia's number two men's doubles pair Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif and Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari had given notice to the BAM that they wanted to go independent.

Meanwhile, commenting on suggestions by Chong Wei, the world number one men's singles player, that more back up players be given overseas exposure like what China was doing, Ahmad Shabery said this entailed a huge cost and that the private sector would have to come in to ensure the success of such a programme.

SLAP IN THE FACE FOR BAM

2011-08-21T00:14:00.001+08:00

Having opted for their "own" pair over the doubles pair of Gan Teik Chai/Tan Bjn Shen, the Badminton Association of Malaysia suffered a slap on their face following the decision of Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif and Mohd Fairuzzizuan Mohd Tazari to quit the stable of the national body.

It what's poetic justice, the BAM pair of Zakry and Hoon Thien How lost in the second round at the World Championships at Wembley Arena, having been entered by BAM despite the independent pair of Gan/ Tan qualifying on merit.

The decision by the duo to quit must seriously Neva blow to BAM who have attributed the lack of suitable sparring partners for the decline of standards of top doubles pair of Koo Kien Keat/ Tan Boon Heong who lost at the last eight stage at the World Champs.

But reading the BERNAMA story one cannot help wonder if BAM realize the story of the sinking ship...

CAUGHT OFFSIDE

2011-08-16T23:28:00.001+08:00

AN ENTERTAINING conflict of interest for Tony Fernandes, the Malaysian entrepreneur who is in advanced talks to buy Queens Park Rangers FC, currently enjoying its first spell in the Premier League for 15 years.

Among Fernandes’ business interests is the no-frills hotels chain Tune Hotels, which sponsors all the Premier League referees. If the QPR deal goes through, he could become the first football owner in history to be relieved when his side is relegated.

NO RETIREMENT PLANS FOR CHONG WEI

2011-08-15T03:27:00.002+08:00

Having lost a close final to nemesis Lin Dan at Wembley Arena, Lee Chong Wei will give it one last shot in 2013 before thinking of calling it quits.

A sad and disappointed Chong Wei had to undergo treatment for an hour before he could talk to the Malaysian media and he spoke about his plans with regards to the 2012 Olympics as well as the reasons for his defeat in the final.

(Please view the video recorded by this blog)

"The difference was that Lin Dan took a gamble and won. When I led 16-13 he threw all he had at me and though I held match point twice, I just could not convert them. It is disappointing as I know many in Malaysia would have watched the match, but I gave it my very best," said Chong Wei who suffered body cramps and had to be helped by the National Sports Institute officials.

"The gap between Lin Dan and me is getting closer as evident from this final and either one of us could have won the final or for that matter any match in the future.

"I will be facing the Chinese armada though over the next year in the run-up to the Olympics as there is not only Lin Dan but the likes of Chen Jin, Chen Loong and other budding Chinese players coming through the ranks.

"So I have to plan the preparations for the Olympics well, and need the co-operation from NSC, NSI and BAM."

Chong Wei also reiterated that he had no plans to retire just yet as he wants the World Championship title and will participate in 2013.

SO CLOSE YET SO FAR

2011-08-14T20:36:00.005+08:00

UPDATED

Lee Chong Wei suffered serious cramps after the match and could not be interviewed after the final. Though a stretcher and wheelchair was brought, he gallantly walked to the changing room. No thanks to an overzealous BWF Media Officer we are unable to bring those pictures to you.

Chong Wei served first and duly won the opening three points as Lin Dan committed unforced errors by sending the shuttle out.

A weak smash into the net by Chong Wei gave Lin Dan the first point and the stage was set for an epic battle.

The Malaysian held the lead after that, but Lin Dan kept within striking distance as the scores moved from 705 to 10-8.

At the break Chong Wei had a three- point lead with the score at 11-8 in favour of the Malaysian.

Lin Dan drew level at 14-14, after a long rally ended with a delicate drop shot that caught Chong Wei flat-footed.

Chong Wei then led 15-14 but a fortunate net clip fell into the Malaysians court and Lin Dan was level again at 15-15.

The Chinese ace then went ahead 16-15 but Chong Wei was not prepared to let him break away as he won the next point to make it 16-16.

Chong Wei showed great defensive skills as he returned three smashes by Lin Dan to make it 18-16 and the crowd were loving it as the two players gave it their best.

Another smash by Chong Wei gave him a 19-16 lead and though Lin Dan had the whole court to him after Chong Wei slipped, he sent the shuttle wide on Chong Wei’s left to give the Malaysian the set point at 20-16,

Lin Dan won the next three points as Chong Wei was hasty with his shots and was within a point of drawing level. And when Chong Wei could not finish off Lin Dan with two smashes, the match went into deuce.

But Chong Wei prevailed as he took the next two points and the set at 22-20 in 27 minutes.

The second started off the same as the first as Chong Wei took a 3-0 lead but Lin Dan won the next four points to edge ahead at 4-3.

A mistake at the net gave Lin Dan a 5-3 lead and things were not looking too good for the Malaysian.

Though Chong Wei pulled a point back, Lin Dan made it 6-4 as Chong Wei sent a shot wide. But in the next two pints it was Lin Dan who committed the errors, first by misjudging a shot on the baseline and following that with a shot into the net to give Chong Wei a 7-6 lead.

But Lin Dan stepped up a gear to take a 9-7 lead, which Chong Wei duly erased to lead 10-9. And two errors by Chong Wei handed the lead to Lin Dan at the break with the clock showing 44 minutes played thus far.

Lin Dan then reeled off six straight winner to make it 17-10, with Chong Wei accounting for three of those, leaving the shuttle, thinking it was out.

Though Chong Wei picked up three points to reduce the deficit to 14-18, two more unforced errors put paid to his hopes as Lin Dan took the set 21-14 in 25 minutes.

THE CROWN BECKONS FOR CHONG WEI

2011-08-13T21:04:00.005+08:00

As hordes of Malaysian VIP’s descended at the mixed zone area of the Wembley Arena to congratulate him, Lee Chong Wei was already thinking about his prospective opponent in the final.

And without hesitating Chong Wei said that he expected China’s Lin Dan to line up against him tomorrow.

Chong Wei defeated China’s Chen Jin in a one sided semi-final, winning 21-13, 21-9.

“I think Lin Dan has the edge over Peter Gade but irrespective who my opponent is, I will be prepared mentally to take them on, said Chong Wei before being ushered to meet the VIP’s in the likes of Malaysian High Commissioner, son of former Prime Minister Dato Mokhzani Mahathir, Deputy Sports Minister Senator Gan Ping Sieu and 2012 Malaysian Olympic contingent Chef de Mission Tan Sri Ahmad Sarji.

“It was a good win today and although I was down early in the second set, I was confident of winning.

“After taking the first set, I knew Chen Jin will come out attacking in the second set and was prepared for his style of play.”

After six failed attempts, with his best showing a semis spot at Anahiem, France where he lost to Taufik Hidayat, Chong Wei was elated with his semis win.

“I hope my detractors will now appreciate the fact that I have made the final,” said Chong Wei.

“Making the final is just one step for I really want to win the title. And my form thus far has been good and these are encouraging signs as I prepare for the final.

“I will give it my best shot for this is really my opportunity to land a title that has eluded me. Trust me that this is the big one that I want to add to my collection.”

Chong Wei took a 2-0 lead but Chen Jin was on level terms as the Malaysian made two uncharacteristic mistakes by send the shuttle into the net.

And the scenario was repeated as Chong Wei won the serve but lost it with another failed attempt at the net.

An error of judgment at the baseline by Chong Wei gave his opponent a 4-3 lead.

Chong Wei then reeled off four points in the row to lead 7-4 but once again Chen Jin fought back to 5-7 but was faulted at serve to hand the initiative back to the world number 1.

And Chong Wei showed his class as he raced to a 11-7 lead at the break, looking confident as he spoke to coach Tey Seu Bock.

With Chen Jin looking a bit apprehensive, Chong Wei went on the offensive as he moved the Chinese all over the court, winning points with deft touches and devastating smashes to lead 14-8.

Chong Wei then gave away just two points before racing off to a 19-10 lead, before another miss hit at the net handed serve to Chen Jin.

An exquisite display of controlled net play gave Chong Wei the 29^th point and although he conceded another two points, he smashed his way to take the first set 21-13 in 14 minutes.

The second set started with Chen Jin racing to a 4-0 lead before Chong Wei won his first point. And as the Malaysian kept making mistakes, Chen Jin too full advantage to gather the points for a 7-3 lead.

Chong Wei stepped up a gear and with the fans urging him on from the stands, he won the next five points to take the lead for the first time in the second set at 8-7.

The manner in which Chong Wei won his ninth point showed his class as he sent Chen Jin scurrying all over the court before finishing him off with his trademark leaping smash. At the break Chong Wei led 11-8.

With Chen Jin in disarray, Chong Wei kept picking up the points as he increased his lead to 17-8, winning nine points on the trot.

And he sealed his spot in the final winning 21-9. And he never showed any emotions.

IN NEED OF SPARRING PARTNERS

2011-08-13T17:28:00.001+08:00

The videos here reflect the mood in BAM after the defeat of doubles pair Koo Kien Keat/Tan Boon Heong in the last eight of the World Championships in Wembley Arena in London.

The fact has been acknowledged both by BAM Secretary Ng Chin Chai and doubles coach Rexy Mainaky. This blog will not elaborate on the issue but suffice to say watch the videos and come to your own conclusions please.

This is something new that this blog is doing - posting videos of the interviews done with players, officials and coaches.

LCW TALKS ON HIS SEMIS CLASH

2011-08-13T06:49:00.000+08:00

INTERVIEW WITH KOO KIEN KEAT AFTER QUARTERS DEFEAT AT WORLD CHAMPS

2011-08-13T06:48:00.000+08:00

KING EYES THE CROWN

2011-08-12T20:11:00.001+08:00

Lee Chong Wei was in a relaxed mood after defeating Kevin Cordon in the quarterfinals of the World Championships at the Wembley Arena in London.

The world number one defeated Cordon from Guatemala 21-7, 21-13 in a match that saw the crowd throwing their support behind the underdog.

But Chong Wei finished off his opponent with relative ease and was jovial, despite the fact that he was the lone Malaysian left standing in the World Champs.

Not even the fact that he will most probably be up against Chen Jin of China in the semi-finals tomorrow (Saturday) seem to have any effect as he joked with the Malaysian media.

For Chong Wei was happy to have made the last four, nevermind the fact that his last two opponents were considered as minnows in the badminton world.

“I have always lost out at the earlier stages, mostly at the last eight with exception in 2005 when I made the semis,” said Chong Wei.

“So making it to the semis has somewhat lifted the curse and I am looking at the semis with renewed optimism.

“It was a pity that Koo/Tan did not make it but they have many more tournaments to look forward to. I was sharing the pressure with them and now it will solely be on my shoulders.

“But this is something that I have become accustomed too and delivering the title will be my gift to all Malaysians.”

With Chen Jin showing stuttering form, Chong Wei is confident of getting the better of his opponent should they meet in the semis.

“ It is the semis, whoever my opponent is, will raise their game but I am prepared for it,” added Chong Wei.

“It is the title that I am after and I will give it my best each time I step onto the court.”

SHATTERED DREAMS FOR KOO/TAN

2011-08-12T19:21:00.001+08:00

The expectations were there, but doubles pair Koo Kien Keat/Tan Boon Heong failed to raise their game and exited at the quarterfinals stage of the World Championships at the Wembley Arena in London this morning.

They went down 17-21, 13-21 to Korea’s Ko Sung Hyun/Yoo Yeon Seong, thus losing to the Koreans for the fifth successive time in their playing careers.

Nothing went right for the Malaysians as their opponents showed that they are a class above, with sound defensive play and a devastating attack that had the Malaysians backpedalling for most of the match.

Finalists at the World Championships in Paris last year, there was much hope on the duo, but they failed to deliver when it mattered.

“We lack quality sparring and just could not keep up with the pace set by the opponents,” said a dejected Koo.

“It was always being one step too slow as they knew exactly were to send the shuttle and exploited our weak points.”

Doubles coach Rexy Mainaky concurred with the thoughts of his charges as he took time to explain to the Malaysian media as to what went wrong.

“The fact of the matter is we were just not good enough today to match the Koreans, both in terms of endurance and speed. This is something we have been working on but it is not good enough.”

The scores in the first set were close until midway into the set when the Koreans opted to up the tempo with Koo making many unforced errors to hand their opponents the advantage.

The Koreans led 16-13 at one stage but Koo/Tan kept within distance, reducing the scoreline to 16-15.

But the Koreans stepped up a gear to reel off the next four points to be within a point of taking the first set.

Though the Malaysians awoke from their slumber, to take the next two points, it was not enough to deny the Koreans of taking the first set 21-17 in just 18 minutes.

In the second the Koreans raced to a 6-1 lead before Koo/Tan realized what hit them. And they were left chasing the match as at the break it was 11-6 in favour of the Koreans.

Ko/Yoo then stretched their lead to 18-12 and hopes of the Malaysian duo were fast evaporating. And the Malaysian dream ended in just 38 minutes on a cold Friday noon.

UNPAID DUES

2011-08-12T14:05:00.002+08:00

National athletic coach Harun Rashid has made a statement that NSC have not paid him for several months.

But it is learnt that the Badminton Association of Malaysia too have not paid their High Performance Director Dato James Selvaraj since the ex international took up the position on a part-time basis since September 1 last year.

And to rub salt to the wounds, the position will be advertised after the BAM Exco meets on August 20.

The irony is that BAM President Dato Nadzmi Salleh had stated that James was the best candidate for the job when he was first appointed and even reiterated this fact some three weeks ago when it was reported that BAM were looking for a full-time person to assume that position.

Attempts to get James to talk here in London have failed and with BAM Deputy President Dato Mohd Al Amin flying into London this morning, this blog will attempt to unplug the mystery.

Is there any truth to another former international Kwan Yoke Meng taking up the position this renewing the partnership with Al Amin as was the case when the latter was BAM Secretary and led to the infamous 2000 debacle?

The common practice in BAM today is to refer everything to the Council, as is stated in the many issues brought up this far.

But if the High Performance Director position is advertised, then the BAM President stands accused of telling a white lie when stating that James was the right person.

And on James part, will he be willing to leave his lucrative position in Bata to take up the position in BAM full-time?

These are questions to be answered and hopefully BAM and James will answer them in London as the nation awaits it's first world champion.

KOO/TAN FACE TOUGH KOREAN OBSTACLE

2011-08-12T01:23:00.001+08:00

There were no problems for Malaysian doubles pair Koo Kien Keat/Tan Boon Heong to book their place in the quarterfinals of the World Championships at the Wembley Arena in London this evening.

They were in their element , disposing off the challenge of Taiwan’s Chen Hung Ling/Lin Yu Lang 21-13, 21-14.

But the real challenge awaits them in the last eight where they will be up against Ko Sung hyun/Yoo Yeon Seong of Korea, a pair that they have never beaten in their four meetings thus far, with the latest defeat at the BWF Super series finals in January

“We will go out there and give it our best shot. Win or lose does not matter as what is important is that we put up our best performance and the result will follow,” said Koo.

“Statistics may not be in our favour but it’s a different match each time we play them and we aim to make the most of it.

“It’s not as if we will be satisfied making the last eight as everyone wants to win but we have to realize that our opponents are a class above.”

It was a slow start by the Malaysian pair as they made several mistakes in the opening stages of the match.

Koo/Tan trailed until they drew level at 6-6 before reeling off two points to take the lead for the first time in the first set.

And they wet into the breather leading 11-7 after the Taiwanese pair made several errors in judgments and left the shuttle when it was clearly in.

Koo/Tan were growing in confidence and took a six-point lead 13-7 and looked comfortable.

And they sealed the first set 21-13 in just 13 minutes, putting themselves in the driving seat for a place in the last eight.

It was the same story in the second set with Koo/Tan in devastating form, reeling off points with relative ease as they raced to a 11-8 lead. And they finished off the second 21-14 and await the Korean might.

EASY WIN FOR CHONG WEI

2011-08-11T19:47:00.005+08:00

A morning stroll at Wembley Park. That would be the best way to describe Lee Chong Wei’s win over Korea’s Park Sung Hwan in the third round of the World Championships at the Wembley Arena in London this afternoon.

Chong Wei won 21-10, 21-5 to book his place in the last eight where he will be up against either Pablo Abian of Spain or giant-killer Kevin Cordon of Guatemala.

“The scoreline may suggest that it was an easy win but on the contrary I suppose Park just did not know what to do on the court as I countered his every attack,” said Chong Wei.

“His confidence must have been shattered after I won the first set easily as he was hardly in the match in the second set. It was a good win and I am glad to have crossed this stage.”

Chong Wei said that it really did not matter who he was up against in the quarters as both the opponents can be dangerous if taken lightly.

“Both of them have nothing to lose and will go out there and give their best. The key here is not to take them for granted. It is obvious they have talent and the fact that a player from either country can make the last eight augurs well for the development of badminton in the world,” said Chong Wei.

Chong Wei showed there he was all business right from the fist serve itself.

He raced to a 4-1 lead before stretching his lead to 9-4, his trademark drops taking its toll on the lanky Korean.

But Park hung in there, reducing the deficit with two straight points before Chong Wei unleashed a series of smashes to win the serve and point. And Chong Wei led 11-6 at the breather.

There was no letting off when the players returned as Chong Wei raced to a 14-6 lead, and soon made it 18-9. The world number one conceded just one more point before wrapping up the first set 21-10 in just 13 minutes.

The second set was no different as Chong Wei raced to a 7-1 lead. And with Park at sea, Chong Wei took the points at ease as he went 11-3 up at the break.

Chong Wei then raced to a 17-4 lead and completed his morning stroll at Wembley Arena by taking the second set 21- 5 in just

But it was curtains for the mixed doubles pair of Goh Liu Ying and Chan Peng Soon who were stopped in their tracks by Singapore’s Yao Lei/Chayut Triyacharat 21-19, 21-14.

The Malaysians fought point for point and surged ahead at 9-8, with Goh showing deft touches infront of the net. Goh/Chan trooped off leading 11-8 at the break in the first set.

The Malaysians took a 13-10 lead and were up 15-11 at one stage. And Goh/Chan took their chances well to lead 19-16, within a step of taking the first set.

But the Singaporeans never gave up and were on level terms. And then the typical Malaysian downfall began as Goh/Chan conceded the next two points as they went down 19-21, a set they really should have wrapped up easily.

And with their confidence shattered, the Malaysians went down tamely in the second 21-14.

“They read our game very well and although we held the advantage in the first, we just could not finish them off,” said Chan.

“It was a wasted opportunity as we could have taken them but it was just not meant to be.”

HESITANT START FOR KOO/TAN

2011-08-10T21:22:00.003+08:00

Koo Kien Keat and Tan Boon Heong got off to a hesitant start in the World Championshops but eventually prevailed after being taken the distance by their opponents at the Wembley Arena.

The Malaysian won 21-6,22-20,21-15 in an encounter that hung in the balance until the middle of the deciding set.

Facing China's unsung pair of Liu Xialong/Qiu Zihan, the Malaysians were expected to breeze through without any problems. And it looked like it was going according to the script in the first set.

Koo/Tan raced to a 21-6 win in the first set without breaking into a sweat as their opponents kept making unforced errors.

The Malaysians were looking sharp, playing deceptive shots that often caught their opponents on the wrong foot and one would be forgiven to think that the second set was going to be a mere formality.

However as is always the case with Malaysian badminton, just when you think that things are going right, things are made difficult by the players themselves.

In the second set Koo/Tan were at sea for a long period, trailing 12-16 at one stage. The Chinese were not giving up and despite the lead being reduced to 18-16, the Chinese pair knew they had a chance.

Koo/Tan drew level to 19-19 but their opponents surged ahead to 20-19 after a lapse of concentration by the Malaysians as both left the shuttle for each other.

Though Koo/tan drew level, Liu/Qiu won the next two points to take the tie into the rubber.

The Malaysians raced to a 8-4 lead but allowed the Chinese pair to reduce the deficit to 7-9.

But a service into the net by Tan gave the Chinese pair a crucial point to be within one point of their opponents. However the Malaysians went 12-9 up and looked confident.

There was no looking back as they went on to seal the spot in the third round with a 21-15 win in the third.

But it was curtains for womens doubles pair of Chin Eei Hui/Wong Pei Tty, as they lost to Mizuki Fujii/Reika Kakiiwa 21-16,22-24,22-20 in a tie that could have gone either way.

CHONG WEI MARCHES ON

2011-08-10T20:32:00.001+08:00

Relentless is the key word to describe Lee Chong Wei's march into the third round of the World Championships at the Wembley Arena in London this afternoon.

He is totally focussed on the task at hand and brushed aside the potential threat posed by Korea's Park Sung Hwan on Thursday, describing it as just another opponent who stands in his path to the elusive world crown.

Not even the fact that Park has a reputation for being a giant killer, as evident from his exploits in Paris last year where he sent defending world champ Lin Dan of China packing, ironically at the third round as well.

" I am taking it as one game at a time and I want to be around on Sunday," said Chong Wei in reference to the day when the finals will be contested.

" It does not bother me about what Park has done in the past as how he plays tomorrow is what matters to me.

" I am confident that I will get past him and the last time we lined up against each other was in the Sudirman Cup."

With the back injury not troubling him, Chong Wei however had one concern, the changes in the speed of the shuttle.

" In my first match the shuttle was slow and today it was even slower, thus it takes time to settle down," said Chong Wei.

On the fact that Chen Long, who was said to be the player who could derail Chong Wei's hopes of making Sunday's final, being knocked out in the first round, Chong Wei had this to say ,;

" As one of the hopes from China I believe the pressure got to him but he is still young and will learn from the defeat. That is the risk top players go through as our opponents have nothing to lose hence throw caution into the wind and attack relentlessly."

SILENCING THE ENGLISH

2011-08-10T04:38:00.000+08:00

Malaysian mixed doubles pair of Chan Peng Soon/Goh Liu Yin silenced the partisan English crowd at the Wembley Arena when they sent the 10th seeds of Nathan Robertson/Jenny Walker packing in the second round of the World Championships this evening.

It was a glorious display by the duo who defeated the English pair 21-19,21-19 in a tie that lasted 42 minutes.

And in the mixed doubles, Ong Jien Guo/Chomg sook Chin defeated Taiwan's Liao Min Chun/Chen Hsiao Huan 21-18,21-16.

But it was curtains for the women's doubles pair of Ng Hui Ern/Ng Hui Lin who were defeated by Japan's Misaki Matsutomo/Takahashi Ayaka 21-10,21-11.

Earlier in the day, men's doubles pair of Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif/Hoon Thien How had only themselves to blame as they went down 24-26,19-21 to Taiwan's Fang Chieh Min/Lee Shen Mu.

In the first sent the Malaysian duo held set point four times but failed to find the elusive point and in the second they were obviously tired as they wilted from the constant attacking display by their opponents.

It was obvious that the duo were not fit, not for such an event like the World Championships, a fact acknowledged by the National Sports Institute Director General Dato Dr. Ramlan Abdul Aziz who shook his head in despair.

"They really need to shed some weight if they harbour hopes of doing well at the top stage. we just have to re-look at their program and tweak it so that it will be able to help them be more agile on the court," conceded Ramlan.

The size of the duo was also the subject of discussions by several Malaysian officials after the dust settled, with the consensus being that BAM had erred in picking the duo above Gan Teik Chai/Tan Bin shen.

WILL JAMES BE SENT PACKING?

2011-08-09T23:28:00.001+08:00

High Performance director Dato James Selvaraj could well be the victim of a vicious power play initiated by some top guns of the Badminton Association of Malaysia.

Currently serving as the high performance director on a part-time basis, James has held a discussion with the BAM President Dato Nadzmi Salleh and it was indicated that BAM was looking for someone who will be able to dedicate his time to BAM on a full time basis.

But sources within BAM have revealed that James is not the chosen one for the full-time position and that they would rather go for a cheaper option then pay the asking price by James.

And what makes it more intriguing is the fact that BAM expects James to present his proposal to the Coaching & Training Committee. And there is a possibility that the plans will be hijacked and the chosen one taking over the position of James.

And in a related development, it us learnt that the term " in the interest of the nation" was used yet again to tell the media on the reasoning behind the exclusion of Gan Teik Chai/Tan Bin Shen from the world championships.

Ironically BAM has failed to explain why no action is being initiated against the official who signed a letter to inform the duo directly on their exclusion in May and yet the BAM is seeking Kedah and Selangor BA take disciplinary action against the two players for dealing directly with the national body.

OFF RIOTS AND POOR MEDIA CENTRE

2011-08-09T19:08:00.000+08:00

Having received so many messages, either via SMS, calls or Facebook, I must say that while I am touched by the concern, there is really nothing to worry about with regards to the riots engulfing London at the moment.

The moral of the story is to get back home before night falls and stay within the comfort of your home, as is the case for me here. A one hour journey, right through the heart of the scene of the riots in Ealing yesterday, left me wondering if there was really such riots as reported daily.

But the pictures in the papers left me with no doubt as it was crystal clear that all it not well in the city that hosts the Olympics next year.

And the organisors could not have chosen a worst time to brief the chef de mission of the various countries who have arrived here for a briefing by the organising committee.

The riots have affected football, with the friendly international between England and Holland at Wembley a victim and its left to be seen if the badminton will be affected.

One thing is certain though, the media services at the World Champs are so poor that the BWF should really look at this matter. The internet sucks big time, limited space available in the media centre and the location of the tribune at courtside is such that you will need a binoculars to see the players in the courts.

Will things get worse? Yup it can if the rioters decide to stage their own show at Wembley.

WORLD CHAMPS - RM6 MILLION BLUNDER BY BAM?

2011-08-08T21:14:00.001+08:00

UPDATED WITH LATE RESULTS

It was to be a walk in the park for world number one Lee Chong Wei. But he somewhat struggled to subdue Thailand’s Tanongsak Saensomboonsuk 21-15,21-17 at the Wembley Arena in London this morning.

It was a day of upsets otherwise and one of the biggest names to fall was Chen Long of China, the fifth seed in the men's singles, who lost to Kevin Cordon of Guatemala 21-19, 8-21, 27-25.

"Every point was hard. In the last points it was very hard. I was a little bit nervous. It was my second time against this player. I was not thinking will I win or will I lose. I was just thinking I had to play my best," said Kevin.

Also biting the dust was 15th seed Kenichi Tago of Japan who lost to Ajay Jayaram of India 21-12,21-19. And following suit was Hong Kong's Yun Hu who lost to Denmark's Hans Kristan Vittinghus 24-22,21-18.

The story of the day however is not about all the Malaysians who have played thus far making through, but the lack of thought to providing the Malaysian contingent suitable attire now that BAM has changed their sponsors from Proton to Maybank.

While it is believed that the players were given a few t-shirts to manage the tournament, some of the officials were seen with tracksuits zipped up to the top, and when asked why, sheepishly showed that they were still donning the old sponsors attire.

And worst still was the fact that the logos of some of the sponsors were merely pasted on, and as one coach took the sponsors logo of Astro out of his pocket to show how things were falling apart, so much similar to what was happening to Malaysian badminton.

Though Chong Wei stated at the post match press conference that he was getting used to the atmosphere, the playing conditions, the fact remains that he did not look as sharp as we are akin to.

But as Chong Wei put it, “ I always am a slow starter and that’s just how I play,” when asked by the hordes of media.

Doubles pair of Mohd Zakry Adul Latif/Hoon Thien How defeated Howard Bach/Tony Gunawan of United States 21-17,21-14.

The USA duo were a far cry from what they were as a pair in 2005 when they defied all odds to win the title and the Malaysian pair benefited from a series of errors, right from poor execution of the serve to uncharacteristic mistakes by Gunawan to move into the second round.

Women's double pair of Chin Eei Hui/Wong Pei Tty also got off to a winning start as they defeated England's Jenny Wallwork/Gabrielle White 21- 14, 21-12.

Results

Men’s Singles

Lee Chong Wei def Tanongsak Saensomboonsuk (Thai) 21-15,21-17

Men’s Doubles

Mohd Zakry Adul Latif/Hoon Thien How def Howard Bach/Tony Gunawan (USA) 21-17,21-14

Chan Peng Soon/Lim Kim Wah lost to Adam Calwina/Michel Logoswz (Pol) 13-21,19-21

Women’s Doubles

Ng Hui Ern/Ng Hui Lin def Anna Kobceva/Elena Prus 21-14,22-20

Chin Eei Hui/Wong Pei Tty def Jenny Wallwork/Gabrielle White (Eng) 21- 14, 21-12

Mixed Doubles

Chan Peng Soon/Goh Liu Ying def Lino Munoz/Cynthia Gonzalez (Mex) 21-9.21-5

BAM LACK B___S

2011-08-04T19:08:00.001+08:00

Well those smart enough will figure that out on how to fill in the spaces.

My earlier posting touched on just how low BAM will go in trying to fix the doubles duo of Gan Teik Chai and Tan Bin Shen.

Well after looking at the letter BAM sent to the Kedah and Selangor BA's, my take is, to borrow a phrase often used by a renowned Sports Editor, is that BAM lacked scrotum gumption to initiate any action on the duo.

And the had the gall to ask the two State BA to initiate action on the duo, of which BAM will be fully supportive.

Ever heard the phrase - baling batu sembunyi tangan? That aptly describes the action of the BAM.

If writing directly to the President of BAM seeking justice is a cause for disciplinary action, then millions who wrote to the Prime Minister can be jailed I guess. So the members of the public should now go through their JKKK before even thinking of talking to their ADUN or MP.

Coming back to BAM, wonder how high is the pedestal that their officials are perched on?

But look back at what you did on May 13 as you in BAM too did not follow procedures and wrote to the players directly.

So BAM, will heads roll in your office as well? Or you practice what you preach - double standards.

HOW LOW CAN ONE GO

2011-07-28T07:45:00.001+08:00

Well very low if one takes a look at the situation of the doubles pair Gan Teik Chai and Tan Bin Shen.

And I am not looking at how BAM treated them in omitting the duo from the World Champs.

But rather the attempt of one senior badminton official who is asking the state BA's to ban the duo for making a complaint directly to BAM and subsequently to OCM without going through the respective BA's.

Since it's regulation that this official is so concerned about, I suggest he looks at the BAM constitution in totality as the BAM Exco is powerless but has made many decisions over the past year and could be deemed as unconstitutional.

So just do what you have to, maybe it's better that BAM move on and just come out with a fair selection process rather then trying underhand tactics to frighten players.

You are no mafia but are starting to sound like one.

And as a reminder look at how BAM compensated Roslin....

ROSLIN Hashim will not receive monetary compensation but the BA of Malaysia (BAM), which accidentally omitted his name from two super series tournaments in May, will allow him to train with the national team and send him for all remaining super series tournaments until the end of the year.

Roslin had sought Sports Commissioner Tan Sri Elyas Omar's assistance and laid down several demands, including a place in next month's World Championships, after BAM's error in omitting his name from the Singapore and Indonesia Opens.

BAM has already granted Roslin a wild card for the World Championships and president Datuk Nadzmi Salleh said the shuttler can enjoy all the training facilities and will be allowed to train with Rashid Sidek's Project 2010-2012 squad.

Roslin can also compete in the remaining five super series tournaments this year for which BAM will bear the total cost.

"I think we have come to an amicable agreement after a discussion with the Sports Commissioner and we have considered his requests except for cash compensation," said Nadzmi.

Roslin had demanded monetary compensation close to RM200,000 for missing the two tournaments.

ARROGANT NSC OFFICIAL

2011-07-20T17:29:00.001+08:00

I have been informed by a member of the media of an NSC official who has passed remarks to character assassinate me. I have given that officer an opportunity to apologize and move forward, and in good faith contacted his superior to advise him as well. But since then 6 hours have passed and no attempt was made to apologize hence I will name and shame him in my next posting. Suffice to say I have consulted my legal team to pursue a suit against him. Nothing personal against NSC but this official seems to forget who he is dealing with. I may be a mere blogger but you could end up a pauper!

DARBY FOR MOHUN BAGAN

2011-07-20T14:24:00.001+08:00

Former Perak and Thailand assistant coach Steve Darby will now move to India and manage Mohun Bagan.

Mohun Bagan had a pathetic trophy-less last season with two coaches -- Stanley Rozario and Subhas Bhowmick -- at the helm.

The Kolkata giants finished a disappointing sixth in the I-League.

The Liverpool-born Darby obtained his UEFA A Licence in 1979 and became an official FIFA Instructor for the Oceania region in 1981 before coaching more than seven teams.

In 1998, he became an AFC instructor and was national development manager for the Australian Soccer Federation between 1990-1995.

Darby then moved on to coach Sydney Olympic, but left in 1998 to coach Johor FA where he enjoyed a successful spell, winning Malaysia FA Cup. He left the club in 2001 to take charge of the Vietnamese women's football team which he led to a gold medal in the SEA Games.

After that, he was appointed youth team coach for Sheffield Wednesday under Terry Yorath, but remained there only for a season before taking over the reins at Singapore's Home United FC.

In his four year tenure as Home United boss, Darby led them to a league and cup double in 2003, a semi-final spot in the AFC Cup in 2004 and also winning the Singapore FA Cup in 2005.

At the end of his Home United FC contract, Darby was also linked to the vacant India manager's post.

However, he did not take up that job, choosing instead to join Perak FA despite having offers from two other Malaysian clubs and a Vietnamese club.

He led Perak FA to second spot in the 2006-07 league and to the Malaysia Cup final and an AFC quarterfinal, a first for a Malaysian Club in Asian competitions at that time.

In October 2008, he was appointed Thailand assistant coach and worked together with Peter Reid who was appointed Thailand chief coach in August.

RIP BICSKEI

2011-07-18T09:11:00.001+08:00

Former Malaysian national football team coach Bertalan Bicskei passed away on Sunday at the age of 66.

His cancer was discovered in 2009 and he served as Malaysian coach until September 2005.

MALAYSIA WAS AWARE OF CLUB STATUS

2011-07-13T20:39:00.000+08:00

Read the highlighted part of this interview with regards to the Zimbabwe club team conning the FA of Malaysia as being the national team. Malay Mail Journalist Haresh Deol had highlighted this matter and the response from FAM at that time and recently was that they were not aware that it was a club team.

But this tells a totally different story, that Malaysia came to know about it and were upset. If so why was the match not called off? Why did FAM not come clean if they knew after the match was played since it is now clear that Malaysia knew about their status of being merely a club?

Read on...

HOPE CHIZUZU, a local journalist, was one of the key people interviewed by the Zifa committee tasked with investigating Asiagate. Chizuzu travelled with Monomotapa, both as a journalist and an official of the club, during their trip to Malaysia in 2009 where they stand accused of masquerading as the Warriors.

Monoz played two games, and lost both matches, in matches whose international A status has already been revoked by Fifa. Chizuzu met the investigating committee in Harare on March 25, this year, at about 10:20 am.

This is a report, by the committee as contained in their final report, of their interview with Chizuzu. There is no written submission by Chizuzu in the report.

Hope Chizuzu – Journalist And Monomotapa FC Official (10.20hrs – 25/03/2011)

Question – In what capacity did you travel with Monomotapa and what else can you tell this committee about the Asia games match-fixing?

Chizuzu – When I went with Monoz, I was putting on many hats, I was a journalist and also a Monomotapa FC consultant.

Question – When we started investigating the initial Malaysia trip of December of December 2009, you were very much outspoken against it. What was the reason for it? Where you given a gag order and, therefore, wanted issues not to be talked about?

Chizuzu – I was never given a gag order and it is generally difficult to give a gag order to me. I say out my mind as I see things. I believe in the truth, irrespective (of) how it might hurt other people. To me, the truth must always prevail.

Question – Fine then, how did you come to be involved in the Monomotapa trip to Malaysia?

Chizuzu – I had just come into the country from Zambia and got a phone call from Solomon Mugavazi telling me that we were leaving on that day’s evening (flight) to play two games in Malayia.

He said that the plane, Air Zim, was leaving that evening, via Singapore. Mugavazi said that the Zifa CEO had organised for Monoz to try and raise finances for preparations for the African Champions League. As Monoz, by then, we had big financial challenges and, obviously, this was a welcome relief as the team was going to get a free camping period and all expenses paid for by the organisers and, as Monoz, we were also going to get a lump sum for participating in the two games.

Question – Who was the HOD and everyone else in the delegation?

Chizuzu – Mugavazi was the HOD, Bhekimpilo “Far” Ndlovu was the treasurer, myself as an executive committee member (consultant), Rodwell Dhlakama was the head coach, Taurai (Manwgiro) as the assistant coach, Clayton Munemo, as the team manager. Musavenga was in charge of the trip and was also representing the hosting FA.

Question – Where were your visas organised?

Chizuzu – We were told that our visas would be provided on arrival in Malaysia.

Question – Who received you when you arrived?

Chizuzu – When we arrived at Singapore, we found two guys who were waiting for us but had no knowledge about us playing Malaysia national team. They didn’t strike me like football people. We had to travel by coach and drove for about 300km. we had problems at the border between Singapore and Malaysia concerning the visa issue. After our arrival, the following day Musavengana came with two strange guys who then held a meeting with the technical team. After their meeting, I asked Clayton about the meeting and he said he was not sure about what the substance of the meeting was but they had been asked to co-operate fully and play three games. He asked me not to tell Mugavazi about it.

I then discovered that these were match agents who were also organising this match outside the Malaysian FA. A BBC correspondent asked me how many players were in the Zimbabwe national team. I told him that we were a Premier League team and did not have National Team players with us. I actually did a 10-minute interview with the BBC and, after that, Monoz were dubbed the impostors. The media there went on to even produce names of players for Warriors from the previous Merdeka Cup.

Question – Why were these agents misleading the Malaysians?

Chizuzu – The agents wanted to fleece off the public of their money. By the time we left Malaysia, we were unwanted by the public there. Musavengana’s behaviour was very funny, e.g, he used to sit on the technical bench like (a) coach.

Question – If, in Malaysia, they were expecting our national team, then why did we send a club?

Chizuzu – Back home, the national team had not been cleared for the trip. I am aware that national team players and coaches like Luke Masomere had been told to keep their passports and bags ready for the trip. Japajapa was supposed to have travelled with this national team and, when the trip was not sanctioned, he therefore could not travel. He got mad, over the Monoz issue, because he was dropped.

Question – As a journalist, why did you people not pick it up early before the rot had set in?

Chizuzu – The truth is that there would be very few journalists who would say they didn’t know about these games?

Question – But, then, why were you gagged on it?

Chizuzu – If you guys are underestimating the strength of that lady then you are fooling yourselves. She is capable of doing anything in her quest to achieve her objective. Even now, all the senior journalists from all the media houses are under her.

The junior journalists have a very clear conscious (conscience) but it’s the guys who say this story must be published or not who frustrate them into submission.

Question – How was the money transferred from Asia to Zimbabwe?

Chizuzu – Real money was shipped to offshore accounts in advance. The main account was and is in Jo’burg.

Question – In Malaysia, what did you really notice?

Chizuzu – There was a big problem in Malaysia when they discovered it was not Zimbabwe national team. The Malaysians were looking forward to good preparation matches against Zimbabwe since their national team was going to be playing against Manchester United from UK. There was also a noticeable rift between Mugavazi and Musavengana and, as a result, Musavengana bolted out of the team hotel and stayed away from where we were staying.

Question – What did Monomotapa gets in monetary terms?

Chizuzu – Mugavazi was paid US$10 000 and this money was given to him in public in the hotel lobby by the Asian guys.

Question – How much did the players get?

Chizuzu – All the players got US$2 500 each and this was gotten clandestinely through the technical team. The technical team each got US$5 000. The team doctor, and executive committee members, were sidelined.

Question – How did the matches go, i.e. the conduct?

Chizuzu – Voster Chitemu came to me saying he was not understanding what was happening, because Musavengana had approached the team at half-time, fuming that they were causing the whole team delegation not to receive their good money. I told (Lysias) Sibanda the issue and he was not amused at all. After that game, the agents paid the team and was no unrest again. The payments were done at night, when the executives were asleep, or not suspecting anything to be happening.

Question – What did the players sign for as allowance payments?

Chizuzu – The official record was put at US$700 each. Also, ‘Far’ Ndlovu left earlier, back for home, to prepare for the arrival of the Tunisian team. The Zifa CEO surprised me by phoning ‘Far’ who was leaving for home that day.

Question – What did the executives get?

Chizuzu – The executives got US$500 each. Coach Rodwell Dhlakama dribbled out his entire technical team on the extra US$5 000, given to them by Musavengana, when we arrived back home.

Question – What’s your recommendations to this committee?

Chizuzu – On punishment to the players, I strongly recommend a lot of leniency as Zifa are to blame for all this. The whole Zifa HQ benefited through payments made to each of them by the CEO, including Nelson Matongorere (Zifa technical director). Wellington Nyatanga could not reign on CEO simply because the moment he received the “boot” (loot) from the CEO, he then obviously, ceded his authority to her.

Even board members like (Fungayi) Chihuri (who is part of the investigating committee that prepared the report) and Gladmore Muzambi received the loot and (Jonathan) Mashingaidze (current Zifa CEO), was also a recipient.

AL-AMIN ELECTED BAC VP

2011-07-10T13:15:00.001+08:00

Dato Al Amin Majid was elected as the Vice President of the Badminton Asia Confederation in the Annual General Meeting held at the Taj Hotel in Lucknow today.

Al Amin polled 23 out of the 26 possible votes, same as two others - Liu Fengyan of China and Juniarto Suhandinata of Indonesia.

Three others who won were Indian BA president Dr. Akhilesh Das Gupta (22 votes), Jassem Kanso of Lebanon ( 21 votes) and Kim Hak Suk of Korea ( 14 votes )

Prior to the elections, the AGM voted unanimously for the removal of VK Verma as the continental representative at BWF as well as the position of Secretary General of BAC.

The position will now be vacant and the new Exco of BAC will determine on the process to fill the position, either with an EGM by BAC or to wait for the BWF AHM in May next year.

There were four withdrawals and one disqualification from the race for the Vice President, which had 16 candidates nominated.

Those who withdrew were Junichiro Yamada (Japan), Peshtiwan Najeed Nadir (Iraq), Kholoud Bitar (Syria) and Prof Ranjit de Silva (Sri Lanka) while Syed Naqi Mohsin (Pakistan) was disqualified as the Pakistan BA was suspended by BWF.

For the race of the President, Katsuto Momli was elected unopposed following the withdrawal of Dato Mohd Nadzmi Salleh.

It was the same case for the position of Hon. Secretary, Surasak Songvarakulpan of Thailand won unopposed after the withdrawal of Jan Hadi Santosa Tanzil from Indonesia while Aamer Hayat Khan Rokhri of Pakistan was disqualified due the suspension of the Pakistan BA by BWF.

Tong Wai Lun of Hong Kong was elected as the Hon. Treasurer after Amanda Lalindra of Sri Lanka withdrew while Saeed Iqbal of Pakistan was disqualified.

Vice President Election Results

Dr.Akhlilesh Das Gupta ( India )- 22
Jassem Kanso ( Lebonan )- 21
Liu Fengyan ( China )- 23
Juniarto Suhandinata ( Indonesia )-23
Maria do Carmo RM Carvalho ( Macau ) - 5
Sugar Dulam ( Mongolia )- 4
Le Dang Xu ( Vietnam )- 0
Kim Hak Suk ( Korea ) - 14
Dato Al Amin Majid ( Malaysia ) - 23
Mohammadredza Pouria ( Iran )- 11
Francis Koh Keng Siang ( Singapore ) - 4

ZULFADLI IS ASIAN UNDER 19 CHAMP

2011-07-09T22:39:00.001+08:00

Zulfadli Zulkifli, a player sponsored and trained by KLRC, brought honour to the nation , donning yellow, when he emerged champion of the Asian U19 Badminton Championships in Lucknow. This is the first time any Malaysian has won at this level.

He defeated India's Sameer Verma 21-15,21-17 to silence the packed stadium

ZULFADLI MAKES IT TO THE FINAL

2011-07-08T18:35:00.001+08:00

Zulfadli Zulkifli showed good match temperament to win his semi final tie against Japan's Kento Momota to qualify for the final in the men's singles of the Asian Under 19 Badminton Championships at Lucknow.

Joining Zulfadli in the final are the women's doubles pair of Chow Mei Kuan/Lee Meng Yean who defeated second seeds Ou Dongni/Xiong Rui from China 21-17,17-21,21-16 in a thrilling semis tie.

They will take on Indonesia's Andini Suci Rizki/Nuraidah Tiara Rosalia in the final.

The 18 year old, sponsored by KLRC, kept his composure to win 21-18,21-19 in a tie that lasted 45 minutes.

This is the first time he made the final in three appearances as he lost in the two previous editions at the quarterfinal and semifinal stages respectively, both on home soil in Kuala Lumpur.

Zulfadli will play either China's Liu Kai or India's Sameer Verma in the final tomorrow.

"I was nervous but did not let it show during the match. I had to engage him in rallies and force him into making mistakes," said Zulfadli.

"Making the final is just the first step as my aim is to bag the title and I will remain focussed on the task at hand.

"There are areas that need to be improved and playing either opponent in the final makes no difference as everyone wants to win and will lift their game."

Zulfadli took a 7-1 lead in the first set but allowed his opponent to draw level at 7-7. And he was faulted at serve with the scores tied 8-8.

However some crafty net play allowed Zulfadli to lead 11-8 at the break. He then pulled away to lead 16-11 but made too many unforced errors that allowed Kento to draw level at 18-18.

But the Malaysian prevailed to take the next three points to sew up the first set 21-18 in 19 minutes.

It was the similar script in the second set as Zulfadli led 6-3 but was caught as the Japanese drew level at 8-8 and he took the lead for the first time at 9-8.

Zulfadli was sending the shuttle out too many times at the base line but engaged Kento to play at the net. That ploy worked as Zulfadli led 11-10 at the break.

It was not more then a point separating the duo as Zulfadli raced away to a 19-16 lead only to make three errors on the trot to allow Kento to draw level at 19-19.

But the lanky Malaysian showed nerves of steel to take the next two points to book a spot in the final, overcoming his semis defeat in Kuala Lumpur last year.

Meanwhile it was heartbreak for men's doubles pair of Teo Ee Yi/Nelson Heg Wei Keat who lost to Taiwan's Lin Chia Yu/Huang Po Jui 16-21,21-11,17-21 in a match that lasted 49 minutes.

SIX MILLION RINGGIT AFFAIR

2011-06-27T09:36:00.001+08:00

Seems the Sports Industry are minting money but not for the nation but rather for the overseas market.

Ever heard the phrase that the prophet is never believed on his own land? Well that is so true in this aspect.

It is learnt that a foreign institution has been awarded a sub-contract ( remember the key word is sub-contract) to conduct a study on the state of the various national sports associations.

The main contract was awarded to a company for a cool RM6 million.

The irony is we have several institutions in the country quite capable of conducting similar studies and I quote - UM, UiTM, UPM and UPSI. So why were they not considered?

And talking about studies in NSA's, something to this effect was done in 2005 but never saw the light of the day as it was considered too damaging to NSC at that time.

Interested in a copy of that report Mr. DG of NSC or Right Honorable Sports Minister? Gimme a tinkle or get your Teh Tarik guys to contact me.

'S'pore wouldn't have won the M'sia Cup if not for him'

2011-06-26T22:47:00.001+08:00

HE HAS been anointed the kelong king after his global trail match-fixing made the headlines that have rocked the game of football.

But it's a title that Wilson Raj Perumal doesn't want.

Instead, he insists that the crown belongs to fellow Singaporean match-fixer Rajendran "Pal" Kurusamy (pictured above) who have previously been convicted and is currently awaiting trial in Malaysia for seven corruption charges related to football.

In a series of four letters to The New Paper last week, Wilson Raj alleged that if it were not for Rajendran, Singapore would not have won the Malaysia Cup in 1994.

Read the full story in The New Paper

NEW KIT FOR CARDIFF

2011-06-17T22:50:00.003+08:00

GeoTagged, [N1.52957, W103.77026]

See how we go to great lengths to promote the country, and not even with tax payers money.

1MALAYSIA FOR CARDIFF

2011-06-17T22:47:00.001+08:00

CARDIFF CITY have turned down a number of sponsorship deals to wear the name "Malaysia" on their new kit for next season.

Chief executive Gethin Jenkins said the Bluebirds had chosen to turn down prospective offers from UK sponsors to show the club's affinity with the country of their Malaysian investors.

The club said it wanted to show its bond with the 1Malaysia campaign - which promotes unity within diverse cultures in the country, along with improving football connections with the start of the 1Malaysia Cardiff City Grassroots Academy in Kuala Lumpur.

Jenkins said: "The club had some very attractive shirt sponsorship options to link up with a number of commercial partners and brands in the UK and abroad, but after speaking with our investors and knowing the commitment from Vincent Tan and TG, we knew that the best way to highlight our affinity with Malaysia was to wear the message with pride on our kits this season.

"The bond between Cardiff City FC and Malaysia will be evident throughout the season, something that has already been fully embraced by our supporters over the last twelve months and more. We are all looking forward to maximising this sponsorship and further sharing much between both countries over the coming season."

"Features and events on our ever improving links with MALAYSIA will be run over coming months, highlighting the excellent work being undertaken by our Academy in the country, plus much more.

A statement on the club's website said: "We are also pleased to include the popular yellow and white stripes at the top of the shirt, while also presenting a classic looking kit that we are sure all Cardiff City supporters will enjoy."

UNDER 21 TOURNAMENT

2011-06-13T15:02:00.001+08:00

For information, match results and pictures, kindly visit http://u21hockey.blogspot.com/

JUST GO IF YOU CANNOT DELIVER

2011-06-08T18:21:00.001+08:00

The National Sports Council stands accused of gross interference with regards to the administration of a national sports body, a charge they cannot deny.

Having first started as an agency to assist in achieving success in high performance sports, NSC today is nothing but a wolf in sheeps clothing.

Yes the Malaysian Amateur Athletic Union (MAAU) or by the many other names my fellow bloggers have given it, are also at fault in this whole doping issue, two faults do not make a right.

We are well aware of the politics being played by two individuals in this mess and the media just love the smell of blood and have been playing up the stories which has given sports a bad name internationally.

And what surprises me more is the prolonged silence on the part of the Right Honourable Sports Minister who seems to steer clear of the mess, letting his Deputy Minister issue an ultimatum to MAAU.

Was there not a Sports Advisory Panel that the Minister could refer the matter to? What has become of this independent commission that could have not only investigated the issue with clout but also get into solving the impasse between NSC and MAAU?

Both Dato Zolkples Embong and Karim Ibrahim have to take a look at themselves in the mirror and ask they see themselves as the saviours for sports, in this case athletics?

The sport could well do without these characters if its an ego trip that they are after. In the case of Karim, he has accused the NSC DG of trying to get him out of MAAU via the electoral process.

And for Dato Zolkples, the only exitis an early retirement as Karim cannot get the Ministry to remove the DG just because he does not like his face.

This charade will continue until the demarcation of responsibilities is not done and the sports scenario is not rid of power crazy personalities that could not care a damn for the ir-repairable damage they doing towards the image of Malaysian sports.

Would have been easier if this was a boxing association problem, for we could put the duo into the ring and ask them to beat the daylights out of each other.

And maybe we could get an event company to secure that rights and outsource it to Don King as in the case of a study being undertaken. More of that in the next blog posting.