Up to Zii Jia whether to train with national squad, says BAM

The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is awaiting input from independent singles player Lee Zii Jia regarding his interest in resuming training with the national team, according to BAM president Tengku Zafrul Aziz. There are currently no plans for a special meeting to address this matter, and BAM has not received any feedback from Zii Jia's team about the suggestion made by former national legend Lee Chong Wei to utilize BAM's training facilities.

BAM is focused on supporting its current singles players and junior players. The BAM council has decided to permit all independent players to engage in joint training sessions at the Akademi Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in the country's best interest, without necessitating a reintegration into BAM. This invitation extends to Zii Jia as well as all other independent shuttlers.

Former national team player Lee Chong Wei trains twice a week at BAM during the Thomas Cup. However, BAM cannot compel any professional player to train with the national squad, out of consideration for their independent status. Zii Jia, currently ranked world No 58, was eliminated in the first round of the 2026 Vietnam Open after losing 8-21, 21-13, 14-21 to Taiwan's Wu Zhe Ying.

Chong Wei has expressed optimism that Zii Jia can regain his form through a more structured training program, more effective sparring sessions, and a robust support system at ABM.