National coaching director Kenneth Jonassen has sent a stern warning to Malaysia’s men’s singles shuttlers following a 3-0 loss to Indonesia in the SEA Games men’s team final. He urged the players to raise their standards immediately with the Thomas Cup just months away.
Malaysia were outclassed by an Indonesian squad that did not even field its strongest lineup, further exposing weaknesses in the singles department.
Leong Jun Hao fell 21-12, 21-19 to Alwi Farhan, while Justin Hoh struggled under pressure in a 21-12, 21-14 loss to Moh Zaki Ubaidillah. In doubles, Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik also went down 21-12, 21-12 to Sabar Gutama-Moh Reza Pahlevi.
Jonassen said the defeat should serve as a daily reminder for players to commit fully to training and follow the plans set by the coaching team. He emphasised that performances like these should not happen at this level.
Malaysia have now lost four of their last five SEA Games men’s team finals, with their last gold medal dating back to 2005 in Manila.
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