KUALA LUMPUR: The BA of Malaysia (BAM) remains unperturbed by the departure of several established coaches in recent years, with interim president Datuk V. Subramaniam attributing the trend to individuals receiving better offers.
However, critics have raised concerns over BAM's ability to retain coaching talent, warning that such losses could jeopardise Malaysia's hopes of securing their first Olympic gold medal at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
The latest to depart is national men's doubles coach Tan Bin Shen, who has opted not to extend his contract, which expires on Jan 13.
BAM had earlier decided to release his assistant, Poh Chai Boon.
In October, former world champion Hendrawan ended his 15-year tenure with BAM to join Indonesia's PB Djarum club.
It is understood that Datuk Tey Seu Bock, who has been with BAM since 2002, is exploring other opportunities and may also leave.
When asked about the spate of departures, Subramaniam said BAM is not concerned.
"This happens everywhere. When individuals get better offers, they will move on," he said.
"It does not mean BAM is not the right place. If that were the case, why would foreign coaches want to come here?
"Sometimes, coaches want to venture out and gain new experiences. We are not worried about this, it is quite common."
Subramaniam confirmed that BAM is actively searching for a replacement for Bin Shen.
"We have several candidates on the list. Discussions will be held to identify and hire the most suitable candidate," he said after a sponsorship extension ceremony with 100PLUS at the Academy Badminton Malaysia in Bukit Kiara today.
"Our goal is to hire the best coach who is loyal and disciplined. He must also be dedicated to developing players and elevating them to the next level."