Malaysia’s singles shuttler Lee Zii Jia has recently expressed interest in returning to the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) for weekly training sessions, although he is still not considering a full-time return due to a sponsorship conflict.

Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei, a BAM council member and former national player, has openly welcomed the possibility of Zii Jia joining for training.

"Of course, we would welcome Zii Jia if he wishes to join the national players in training, but I don't have the authority to decide on this. There is a procedure to be followed," said Chong Wei.

"He can email the management on his intention, and as performance committee chairman, I can bring it up to the BAM council to seek approval,” Chong Wei added.

BAM, the Badminton Association of Malaysia, is the country’s official national badminton body. It oversees matters such as player management and training for major events like the Olympics and the Thomas Cup. It also plays a role in handling sponsorships and funding for players.

Zii Jia's training with BAM during the Thomas Cup in Horsens evidently benefited him. Competing as the third singles player after a long period of inconsistency and early exits, he went on to win three matches against opponents from England, Finland, and Japan.

What Zii Jia has to say about the sponsorship clash

The main issue surrounding Zii Jia’s possible return to BAM for weekly sessions, rather than as a full-time player, is a sponsorship conflict.

As an independent player, he has been contracted to equipment brand Victor since 2024, with the deal set to run until the 2028 Olympics. BAM, however, has a long-standing sponsorship agreement with YONEX.

BAM is particularly strict about sponsorship and branding requirements within its setup, even in limited arrangements, as players are generally expected to comply with established branding standards.

"I will leave it to BAM to deal with their sponsors," Zii Jia said, "For me, going in to spar is not a problem, but when it comes to sponsorship, there could be a conflict."

"I don't really know what BAM's rules are, but I understand the situation. Hopefully, we can find a solution." 

If Zii Jia submits a formal request to BAM, the matter is likely to be discussed at the council meeting during the Malaysia Masters from May 19 to 24.

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Written by

Aadhya Nalla

Edited by

Sahil Prashar