KUALA LUMPUR – Former world No. 1 men’s singles shuttler Roslin Hashim has never been shy of criticism when it comes to the development of Malaysia’s badminton industry.
He has always openly spoken his mind, often giving comments to the press or on his social media account.
Having been recently invited to be part of the Akademi Badminton Malaysia (ABM) technical advisory panel, comprising seven former ace shuttlers, on a pro bono basis, Roslin said he hopes their voices will be taken into serious consideration and not just fall on deaf ears.
“I was quite surprised that I was listed to be part of the panel. All this while, I have been vocal towards the BAM management. Now that I am part of the panel, this is a good opportunity to express my opinion the right way.
“Seeing that this is on a pro bono basis, I only hope this will not be a waste of our time.
“Because then, what is the point of having us if our opinions would only fall on deaf ears? That would be pointless,” said Roslin.
Roslin, who had an illustrious 13-year career in the late 90s, is also concerned that the panel is too good to be true.
He said that having opposing ideas is normal in a discussion, and he hoped the panel could function professionally for the sake of the local badminton industry.
Roslin said that even if the panel disagreed with some of the ideas expressed by the former players, he hoped they would continue having thorough discussions instead of shutting down their ideas entirely.
“If they need ideas or views from us, we are always happy to share. Hopefully, they will listen for the benefit of our badminton industry.
“If our ideas are not relevant or are inappropriate, we can always discuss them and find other ways,” he added.
Singles legend Datuk Lee Chong Wei also accepted the invitation to join the panel, alongside other former world number ones such as men’s doubles pair Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and men’s doubles player Datuk Cheah Soon Kit.
According to a statement announced by ABM on Friday, the panel is expected to meet quarterly, beginning the end of this month.– The Vibes, February 6, 2023
