KUALA LUMPUR – Although national shuttler Lee Zii Jia will not be returning to the fold following his resignation from Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) on January 11, the Malaysian athlete may have his two-year ban lifted to enable the 2021 All England champion to compete in the Asia Team Championships from February 15-20.
According to a source in the badminton fraternity, Zii Jia and the national body have reached a consensus that the 24-year-old Kedahan will be playing as a professional in no time at all.
“The meeting today was about his appeal on the two-year ban (by BAM) with negotiations (on the matter) still ongoing − we will know more next week.
“However, he has received BAM’s blessings to go professional.”
According to a recent posting on social media, the badminton ace confirmed that BAM will allow him to go professional and at the same time, suggested that his ban will be lifted.
“I am pleased to have this private heart to heart meeting with BAM president Tan Sri Norza Zakaria together with my parents. I am happy that we are now resolving this issue with BAM after receiving Tan Sri’s blessing to become a professional player.
“My past and future achievements will always be the product of Tan Sri Norza, BAM and Malaysia. I am forever thankful that Tan Sri guided, nurtured, and gave me the opportunity to serve the country that I love.
“At the moment, I will commit myself for the Asia Team Championships. I hope this conclusion unites us as Malaysians and badminton fans. Please continue to support BAM and also the country’s professional players, who are also nurtured by BAM because at the end of the day we are one,” Zii said on his Instagram post.
Another source from the sports industry added that it was good to see both parties reach an agreement for the sake of national interest, adding that now everyone can focus on the sport. – The Vibes, January 25, 2022
