PETALING JAYA — Former Singaporean shuttler Indra Wijaya has been appointed the new men’s singles coach of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).

The former world No 4, who moved to Singapore after representing Indonesia from 1995 to 2000, will join the BAM next month.

Former world No 1 Lee Chong Wei, who is gunning for gold at the 2016 Olympic Games, believes Indra is the best man for the job.

“Actually, he’s one of my choices,” said Lee, who won silver in the men’s singles at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. “All of us, including the coaches, have given ideas, but it was up to BAM to pick and accept the candidate. Indra is definitely the right choice, not just for me but the whole team.”

Last month, Lee requested two coaches be assigned to him and the team so as to maintain his end-of-season momentum, which saw him win the French, China and Hong Kong Opens to finish the year as world No 5.

“When I go abroad to compete, I observe the coaches as well,” he said. “Indra was with South Korea and they’re catching up (to us), especially in men’s and women’s singles. It shows his worth.”

Lee said he needs coaches Hendrawan and Tey Seu Bock to travel with him to tournaments for five to eight months’ preparation for the Rio Olympics and Indra can stay in Malaysia and “look after” the younger players.

BAM expect to have Indra settled into his new role by next month after the Indonesian’s contract with the Badminton Korea Association (BKA) expires.

Indra will specifically mentor youngsters Iskandar Zulkarnain, Goh Soon Huat, Soong Joo Ven, Soo Teck Zhi, Chong Yee Han, Cheam June Wei and R Satheishtharan.

Hendrawan and Tey will solely focus on Lee’s Olympics programme.

Indra had a decorated playing career for Indonesia, winning the Thomas Cup in 1996 and 1998 with the national team. He is also the elder brother of 2000 Sydney Olympics gold medallist Candra Wijaya, and is the brother-in-law of former Singaporean player Ronald Susilo.

In his position with BKA, Indra worked closely with the likes of Son Wan-ho, Lee Dong-keun and Jeon Hyeok-jin, with 20-year-old Jeon claiming victory at the Macau Open in November.

Lee also stressed that having a new coach was in the best interest of badminton. “The nation can’t always pin hopes on me. I might only be around for another year after the Olympics,” he added.

“It’s important for us to seek potential players soon and for that we need good coaches.” AGENCIES