Liew Daren’s return to Team LZJ is built on something deeper than tactics and training — trust. A long-time friend of Lee Zii Jia, Daren has now stepped into a new role as the men’s singles star’s coach, with the main mission of helping him rediscover confidence after a difficult, injury-hit year.
The appointment, announced by Team LZJ earlier this week, came as a surprise to many. Daren replaces Yeoh Kay Bin, who has chosen not to extend his contract. Kay Bin will still complete his final assignment at the Malaysian Open, while Daren is set to officially begin his coaching duties at the Indian Open the following week.
At 38, Daren understands the magnitude of the task ahead. Zii Jia, the former Asian champion and Paris Olympics bronze medallist, has struggled for momentum due to recurring injuries and limited match play.
“We’ve been communicating all this while, and we’re friends,” said Daren. “I know what he has gone through this year with injuries. Everything happened naturally. Next year will be challenging, and I hope I can help him return to his best form.”
This marks a fresh chapter for Daren, who completed a 12-month suspension imposed by the Badminton World Federation in 2024 over betting-related issues from 2018. With that period now behind him, his full focus is on supporting Zii Jia’s comeback.
Daren is no stranger to Team LZJ. When Zii Jia first turned independent in 2022, Daren was part of the early backroom setup, serving as an assistant coach and sparring partner. During that time, he gained valuable experience working under Indra Wijaya and Wong Tat Meng — knowledge he now hopes to apply in his new role.
“I learned a lot under Indra and Tat Meng,” Daren said. “I hope what I picked up from them can now help Zii Jia move forward.”
With friendship as the foundation and experience on his side, Daren’s return could prove vital as Zii Jia looks to rebuild confidence and consistency in the next phase of his career.
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