Malaysia's men's doubles players have been urged to embrace recent partnership changes as part of a long-term plan to strengthen the country's bid for Olympic gold at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky believes the reshuffle presents an opportunity for players to prove themselves and develop the mentality needed to compete for the sport's biggest prize.
According to Rexy, the changes are not meant to disrupt established partnerships but to identify the combinations with the greatest potential before the Olympic qualification period begins next year.
"When partnerships change, everyone starts from zero again. The players must see it as a new opportunity and show what they can do," said Rexy.
The decision comes after several Malaysian pairs struggled to maintain consistency in recent tournaments despite having spent years playing together. With multiple international events still available before Olympic qualification starts, Rexy believes now is the right time to experiment.
He stressed that the coaching team cannot afford to wait until the qualification race begins before assessing alternative combinations.
Source: Free Malaysia Today
The reshuffle has resulted in several high-profile changes within the national setup. Former world champions Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik have been separated for the time being, while another established pair, Man Wei Chong and Tee Kai Wun, have also been split.
Under the new arrangement, Aaron Chia will partner Aaron Tai, while Soh Wooi Yik will team up with Man Wei Chong. Tee Kai Wun has been paired with Yap Roy King, and Wan Arif Junaidi will join forces with Kang Khai Xing.
Rexy said the objective is to increase competition within the squad and discover partnerships that may otherwise never have been explored. Strong performances could lead to the new combinations being retained beyond the trial period.
The coaching team, including men's doubles head coach Herry Iman Pierngadi, has also been working closely with Performance Committee chairman Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei to reshape the players' Olympic mindset.
For Rexy, Malaysia's ambitions must now go beyond simply reaching the podium.
"We have already won silver and bronze medals. The target now is gold," he said.
He believes players must begin preparing mentally for that challenge long before Olympic qualification starts. Rather than viewing participation or a medal finish as success, the focus should be on becoming champions.
The new pairings are expected to be tested on the international circuit over the coming months, giving the coaching staff valuable insight into which combinations can form the foundation of Malaysia's campaign for Los Angeles 2028.
While the changes may initially create uncertainty, Rexy is convinced they are necessary if Malaysia hopes to finally achieve its long-standing dream of winning an Olympic badminton gold medal.
