KUALA LUMPUR – National men’s doubles shuttlers Man Wei Chong and Tee Kai Wun have pledged to elevate their game under the guidance of newly appointed head coach Herry Iman Pierngadi, as they aim to achieve greater heights in their badminton careers.
The duo made this commitment after being knocked out in the semi-finals of the Malaysia Open last night, losing 24-26, 21-16, 21-15 to China’s Chen Boyang and Liu Yi in 76 minutes at the Axiata Arena.
“It was a tough match, and we couldn’t stay composed during crucial moments,” admitted Kai Wun.
“But we’re determined to improve and learn as much as we can from coach Herry. Our goal is to elevate our game and work towards competing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.”
The match also marked their final tournament under outgoing coach Tan Bin Shen, who will join the Hong Kong national team next month.
Both players expressed gratitude for his contributions to their growth over the past two years.
“What hurts the most is not being able to give coach Bin Shen the perfect farewell he deserves,” said Kai Wun. “He has been instrumental in helping us develop as players.”
Bin Shen, who would be stepping down on Monday to end his four-year service, reflected on his bittersweet departure.
“I’m heading to Hong Kong to gain more experience, but I will definitely miss home,” he said.
“I hope to see the players I’ve nurtured succeed. I’m sad that I couldn’t produce a Malaysia Open champion in my final tournament in charge, but I hope coach Herry can finish what I started and bring out the best in these players.”
Wei Chong and Kai Wun’s defeat means Malaysia’s wait for a home Open finalist continues.
Datuk Lee Chong Wei remains the last Malaysian to reach the final, winning the men’s singles title in 2018.
For the men’s doubles, the last finalists were 2014 champions Goh V Shem and Lim Khim Wah.
Bin Shen’s tenure with the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) has seen him nurture budding players like Wei Chong and Kai Wun, guiding them from International Series hopefuls to Super 300 champions.
He also played a pivotal role in the success of Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, who won medals at the World Championships, Asian Games, and two Olympics.
With Herry’s arrival, Wei Chong and Kai Wun hope to build on these foundations and deliver stronger performances in upcoming tournaments. – January 12, 2025