SUKMA 2024: Johor, Perak Fire Warning Shots In Badminton

By Ahmad Syabil Sultan Noordin Ahmad

SIBU, Aug 16 (Bernama) — Johor and Perak's badminton squads are making their intentions clear, signalling their bid for dominance at the 2024 Malaysian Games (SUKMA), set to officially begin tomorrow at the Sibu Indoor Stadium here.

Johor team manager, Azuan Mohd Ali, is confident that his mix of BAM development players and state athletes is ready to shine, with expectations high for several categories.

“We’re banking on strong performances in the mixed doubles and men’s doubles, where we believe our players have the edge. For the men’s singles, we’re hopeful of a podium finish, though which medal exactly we can't say for sure yet. 

“Our preparations have been two years in the making, and I’m proud to say the team is primed and ready to compete,” Azuan told Bernama after a training session here today. 

In SUKMA 2022, Johor’s Ng Tze Yong lived up to his billing to clinch the men’s singles badminton gold by defeating Federal Territory’s Leong Jun Hao. 

Perak team manager, Mohamed Zambri Bahari, meanwhile was equally optimistic, citing his squad’s valuable experience from SUKMA 2022 as a potential game-changer.

“Our focus is on the men’s singles and women’s doubles categories. The introduction of the mixed team event this year adds an exciting twist, and I think it’s anyone’s game.

“Our main hope lies with Eogene Ewe Eon in the men’s singles. As a member of the BAM development squad, he’s got the skills to bring home a medal for Perak,” he said. 

At SUKMA 2022, the Perak badminton squad missed out on the medals, but they’re determined to change that this time.

Six gold medals are up for grabs in badminton in this edition of the games. 

-- BERNAMA