Malaysian badminton received a stroke of luck this weekend as a second contingent of players arrived safely in Birmingham ahead of the prestigious All England Open. The squad’s timely Saturday arrival followed a critical transit through Dubai International Airport, which faced major flight suspensions just hours later amid escalating regional tensions.
The proactive planning ensured top players, including women’s doubles stars Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah and mixed doubles pair Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei, avoided the disruption that affected others, such as India’s P.V. Sindhu, who was reportedly stranded at the airport.
National doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky confirmed the transit went smoothly and praised the players’ timely arrival, emphasizing that careful planning was key to avoiding potential travel bottlenecks.
The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) has now turned its attention to the players’ return journey. Secretary-General Datuk Kenny Goh reassured fans that the team remains in constant communication with players and is actively monitoring the volatile situation in the Middle East. Alternative flight routes are being considered to ensure the squad’s safety after the All England Open.
Players scheduled for immediate return include men’s doubles duo Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik, alongside Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah and Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei. Independent pairs such as Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani and Ong Ye Sin-Teo Ee Yi will also return directly from Birmingham.
Meanwhile, other members of the national squad will continue their European campaign, heading to the Swiss Open in Basel from March 10-15 and the Orleans Masters in France from March 17-22, keeping their focus on strong performances following the Birmingham showpiece.
