KUALA LUMPUR: The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is set to finalize its search for a new men's doubles head coach within the next two weeks, as the organization prepares for a significant leadership transition.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, BAM's acting president, Datuk V. Subramaniam, stated that they are currently evaluating several candidates, including a local coach, to succeed Tan Bin Shen. Bin Shen is scheduled to conclude his tenure following the Malaysia Open 2025, which will take place from January 7 to 12. Subramaniam highlighted the association's intention to expedite the process, expressing the possibility of making an announcement during the upcoming tournament.

Bin Shen, who has been with BAM for four years, will officially step down on January 13. His tenure has been marked by notable achievements, most prominently guiding the men's doubles pair Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik to Malaysia's first world title in 2022. Following his departure, Bin Shen will embark on a new role with the Hong Kong national team, joining forces with former world number one men's singles player Wong Choong Hann and fellow Malaysian coaches Jeremy Gan and Loh Wei Sheng.

Subramaniam remained reserved when questioned about the potential appointment of veteran Indonesian coach Herry Iman Pierngadi, known as Herry IP, as Bin Shen's successor. He emphasized that the decision would be made collectively by the BAM team, aiming to select a coach who synergizes well with both players and management.

Speculation around Herry IP's potential move to Malaysia gained traction following a social media exchange between him and Indonesian player Mohammad Ahsan. Ahsan's comment on Herry IP's Instagram post hinted at the possibility of Herry IP's relocation, as the coach responded affirmatively to an invitation to share a meal of Musang King durians.