James Selvaraj Appointed BAM High Performance Director

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 20 (Bernama) -- Former national shuttler and coach Datuk James Selvaraj has been appointed Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) High Performance Director, announced BAM president Datuk Mohd Nadzmi Mohd Salleh.

Mohd Nadzmi said Selvaraj, who is also Senior Manager of Bata Marketing Sdn Bhd, was the best candidate for the post, not only because of his background in the sport but also for his vast experience in management.

"Datuk James brings together with him a wealth of experience in the sport of badminton.

"He has represented the country as a player and coach. He also has vast experience in management and thus making him the most suitable candidate for this very important post," said Mohd Nadzmi in a statement here Friday.

He said Selvaraj would begin his work on Sept 1, working with BAM Coaching and Training Committee, coaches and players, in all aspects of the national team's high performance programme, including national training and coaching programmes.

"In view of this, BAM hopes to produce success as demonstrated by podium performances at World Championship and Major Games and the development of a strong, sustainable feeder system through which the next generation of champions will be produced," he said.

Selvaraj was a former national shuttler during the late 1970s. Among his achievements were a bronze medal in the 1977 Sea Games in Kuala Lumpur, runner-up in the 1976 Thomas Cup in Bangkok and a bronze medal at the 1978 Commonwealth Games in Edmonton.

Meanwhile, in the same statement, Nadzmi said BAM had decided to increase incentives for players or pairs who emerged champion in the BWF World Championships in Paris, held from Aug 23-29, from RM30,000 to RM50,000.

"This is to give additional encouragement and also to serve as a reminder to all players that BAM is always ready to motivate and provide increased incentives for winning major events," he said.

-- BERNAMA