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The country’s number one men’s singles player, Lee Zii Jia has appealed to the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).

Lee is hoping the BAM will reverse its decision to suspend him from participating in any international tournament.

BAM said in a statement that Lee’s appeal was accepted on Monday (24 January).

BAM gave assurance that it will work towards finding an amicable solution after the 2021 All England Champion decided to leave BAM prematurely.

Lee arrived at Akademi Badminton Malaysia in Bukit Kiara today (25 January) to participate in further discussions with BAM.

The Stick And The Carrot

Previously, the country’s badminton governing body decided not to register the world number 7 for the international tournaments for two years starting 18 January.

The punishment had a profound effect not only on the badminton fraternity but also on Malaysians.

READ MORE: Lee Zii Jia Changes Profile Picture To Black, Netizens Bombard BAM On Social Media

We are fully aware of the anger and frustration being poured out and we fully understand the frustration expressed against BAM. This situation is extremely challenging and is getting attention from all parties, politicians and international players.

BAM on the repercussions of Lee’s decision quite the parent body

BAM said it appreciates all the comments, criticisms and overall feedback directed at them.

It gave assurance that the sport and also the best players will be protected while maintaining the highest values and standards at the same time.

The BAM Council’s action is based on official procedures with the information submitted to them. However, it is important to remember that the decision can still be appealed.

BAM on the second chance for Lee

Where It All Started

Last Wednesday, BAM President Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria confirmed that Lee submitted his resignation letter from BAM on January 11 to become a professional player.

Lee gave the reason that he could not withstand the pressure and lifestyle with strict discipline in BAM.

BAM responded by deciding not to register Lee and former World Junior Champion Goh Jin Wei for future tournaments for the next two years.

Goh was also punished because she made an immediate u-turn to become a professional player after retiring from the national team due to health factors.

The saga drew stinging criticism against BAM as renowned players such as Anders Antonsen, Lauren Smith, Chirag Shetty, as well as former national players, rallied around Lee.

READ MORE: [Watch] Former National Player Roslin Hashim Lets Rip At BAM Big Shots

Fans also expressed dissatisfaction with the punishment imposed on Lee, while a minister also stepped in to help.

READ MORE: Peja The ‘White Knight’ To Lee Zii Jia’s Rescue

Not all were sympathetic with Lee.

Some netizens said BAM should stick to its earlier decision as a warning for other players.

Advice From Mentor

Lee’s former coach, Datuk Misbun Sidek hopes that there will be a good closure so as not to have a bad effect on national badminton.

In a report by Astro Awani, he was quoted as saying that BAM have a right to suspend Lee.

Misbun, who was surprised by the suspension, pointed out that BAM have been meeting the needs of the players since they were young.

Suddenly you take a step to get out of the association, that action is a violation of the prescribed arrangement.

Datuk Misbun Sidek on BAM’s decision to suspend Lee

Misbun hopes that Lee can rethink his decision to quit BAM.

He said if Lee wants to be a great player, he has to go back to the basics.

Lee’s former coach Datuk Misbun Sidek said it’s not too late to salvage the situation. (Credit: Berita Harian)

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