BAM to Nominate Tengku Zafrul as President for 2025-2029 Term
KUALA LUMPUR: The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) appears to be heading towards a transition in leadership with the majority of its council members reaching a consensus to nominate investment, trade and industry minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz as the president for the 2025-2029 term.
New Leadership for BAM
The announcement was made by BAM acting president V Subramaniam, who stressed the importance of a strong and stable leadership to drive the association forward.
"In consideration of what is best for BAM, I am pleased to inform you that the majority of us have reached a consensus to nominate Tengku Zafrul for the post of president in the upcoming BAM election," he said during a press conference at Academy Badminton Malaysia today.
Subramaniam said Tengku Zafrul had been informed of the decision and agreed to the appointment.
Experience and Leadership
"I have served in the badminton fraternity since 1988. I am not new to the field. I want to see BAM grow, not individuals. So when we looked at the larger picture, we looked at it very carefully," Subramaniam said.
"I have agreed that only the right person should lead BAM. We are there, we will be there to assist. So it is not individual interests. For those purposes, I think Tengku Zafrul will be the right candidate to be the president for the upcoming election," he said.
Election Details
Subramaniam said the election is expected to take place on May 10 during BAM’s annual general meeting (AGM).
"There is no specific nomination. We will do it on the day of the AGM. And if there are any other names? I do not know. I have discussed with the majority of our council members and they unanimously agree," he said.
"We want a president who has a lot of experience and who is more well-known in a country like Malaysia, as a corporate figure, and now a minister. Maybe he will also be retiring soon," he added.
BAM’s Commitment to the Sport
He emphasized that BAM was not a place for politicking as it was deeply committed to the sport.
Background on Tengku Zafrul
Tengku Zafrul had come close to being appointed as BAM president to replace Norza Zakaria, who initially planned to step down early last year.
However, youth and sports minister Hannah Yeoh asked Norza to reconsider and remain in office until after the 2024 Paris Olympics.
BAM subsequently decided to appoint Subramaniam as acting president until the AGM in May.
Conclusion
The nomination of Tengku Zafrul as BAM president is seen as a significant move to bring in a leader with extensive experience in corporate and government circles. With his background in investment, trade, and industry, he is well-equipped to lead BAM and drive the association forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the election expected to take place?
A: The election is expected to take place on May 10 during BAM’s annual general meeting (AGM).
Q: Who is the current acting president of BAM?
A: V Subramaniam is the current acting president of BAM.
Q: Why is Tengku Zafrul being nominated for the post of president?
A: Tengku Zafrul has been nominated due to his extensive experience in corporate and government circles, as well as his commitment to the sport of badminton.