Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei has maintained his firm stance on discipline within the national badminton setup despite reports that several players have raised concerns over stricter regulations introduced by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).
The BAM performance committee chairman revealed that some national players have expressed dissatisfaction with the tighter rules and even brought their concerns directly to BAM president Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
However, Chong Wei stressed that the complaints will not change the direction of the current management, saying the stricter approach is necessary to address ongoing disciplinary issues within the squad.
He explained that the new framework has been introduced following repeated feedback from coaches and officials regarding player discipline, and added that adjustments were needed to improve standards inside the national camp.
According to Chong Wei, the situation reflects a period of transition under new leadership, where higher expectations and stricter enforcement have naturally led to discomfort among some players.
He acknowledged that recent months have not been easy for those involved, but reiterated that the BAM leadership remains fully supportive of the measures being implemented.
While he did not name any individuals, he confirmed that some players had gone as far as meeting the BAM president to air their grievances.
Chong Wei, however, made it clear that the organisation will continue to uphold its disciplinary direction, suggesting that consistency and accountability are key priorities moving forward.
The stricter regulations are part of broader efforts to tighten standards within the national setup, where discipline-related concerns have been repeatedly highlighted in recent months.
Despite the tension, BAM leadership appears committed to maintaining the current course, with Chong Wei emphasising that the changes are aimed at strengthening long-term performance rather than restricting players unnecessarily.
