PHNOM PENH: The national badminton squad are in a positive mood after being given a kind draw for the team events at the Sea Games.
The draw conducted today saw the men's team, who are seeded second, being lined up against Vietnam in their opening tie tomorrow.
The first true test for Malaysia in the competition will, however, come on Tuesday when they are expected to face Thailand in the semi-finals.
Singapore, who have included 2021 world champion Loh Kean Yew in their squad, and top-seeds Indonesia are expected to be the main contenders for this edition.
National singles played Leong Jun Hao is not taking Vietnam lightly as they have shown improvement in recent seasons.
"To me, this is a good draw," said Jun Hao.
"But still, Vietnam will not be easy and we will have to do our best against them as part of our preparations ahead of the Thailand game.
"I am not sure whether I will be fielded tomorrow (against Vietnam), that is entirely up to the coaches."
Meanwhile, the national women's squad will open their account against the Philippines tomorrow who are not expected to pose a problem to them.
Malaysia will likely face Indonesia in the semi-finals on Tuesday.