ANN/THE STAR – The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is considering a strict new deterrent: heavy fines and multi-year bans for players who leave the national setup prematurely.

Though some view the MYR500,000 penalty as excessive, former legend Rashid Sidek insisted it is a justified move to protect team stability.

The timing is underscored by Go Pei Kee’s recent exit, which disrupted Uber Cup preparations for partner Teoh Mei Xing and coach Rosman Razak. Pei Kee will not be penalised, however, as the new regulations won’t be formalised until the upcoming May council meeting.

BAM secretary Kenny Goh said the contracts were designed to be fair to both parties.

Players who leave prematurely could face either a two-year ban from international competitions or be required to pay compensation ranging from MYR300,000 to MYR500,000, depending on their world ranking at the time of departure. Rashid said the national body had every right to impose such measures after heavily investing in players.

“It is fair,” said the former national number one, who was part of Malaysia’s 1992 Thomas Cup-winning team.

“BAM have invested a lot in the players.

“Right now, when a player reaches a certain level, they can choose to leave even when their services are still needed.

“This is where the line needs to be drawn.”

Rashid, however, stressed that the rule should be applied on a case-by-case basis.

“Some players may be injured and unable to contribute. In such situations, BAM can thank them for their service and release them even if they have not completed their contract,” he said.

On former national number one Ng Tze Yong, who has not competed for almost a year and still on the process of getting into full-time training, Rashid said BAM had continued to support the player.

“Tze Yong is a different case. He still has potential and the association are giving him full backing, which is good,” he added.

The 25-year-old, whose last appearance was at the Malaysian Masters in May last year, is currently ranked 211 but continues to receive the same income as the squad’s top players.

In fact, he was sent to Doha for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery to help him get on his feet quickly.

-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin