Bukit kiara: The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is currently awaiting feedback from professional singles player Lee Zii Jia and men's doubles pair Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Mohd Rumsani regarding their participation in the national squad for the 2026 Thomas Cup. BAM Performance Committee chairman Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei said official invitations to join the governing body's centralised training camp have been sent to the players concerned, including another professional player, Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei mentioned that since December last year, the coaching team has been discussing early preparations. The aim is to select players who are truly at their best for the upcoming Thomas Cup. He shared these insights after a visit by BAM patron and the Prime Minister's wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, to Akademi Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara.

Commenting further on the team's preparations, Chong Wei stated that the national squad will depart earlier to Denmark for a 10-day training camp as the final phase of preparation. This includes adapting to the weather there, to ensure thorough preparations. Chong Wei emphasized that the target remains to emerge as champions.

Meanwhile, BAM president Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz commented on the mission to chase the prestigious title, noting that it aligns with the governing body's long-term plan under the 'Tangkis 2030' programme. He acknowledged the major challenges ahead but stressed the importance of setting high targets in the sport.

The last time Malaysia lifted the prestigious trophy was at the 1992 edition in Kuala Lumpur. Tengku Zafrul expressed optimism, stating that they have the players, coaches, and leadership to achieve their goal. He emphasized the need to seize this opportunity and maintain belief in their ability to win.