KUALA LUMPUR: Jacky Kok was once touted as the next Lee Chong Wei by BAM coach Datuk Misbun Sidek.
However, he was among 13 players dropped from the national team earlier this month.
Jacky, 22, said he has only positive memories from his time with the national body.
"Of course, there are ups and downs, but I will cherish everything that has happened to me, even the sad times," said World No. 123 Jacky after upsetting 77th ranked M. Mithun of India in the first round of the Malaysia Super 100 at Stadium Juara in Bukit Kiara today (Oct 15).
He will face Japan's world No. 48 Koo Takahashi in the second round.
Jacky was a member of the gold medal-winning squad at the Asia Championship in 2022, and he also won the Swedish Open in the same year.
When asked about his plans, Jacky said he has yet to think about it.
"I want to thank BAM for letting me participate in the Malaysia Super 100 and the Indonesia Masters II in two weeks.
"I just want to enjoy what is left of my time with the national team," the Kedahan added.
Malaysia's Eogene Ewe Eon laboured past Hein Htut of Myanmar 21-18, 21-16 in 41 minutes. He will next face sixth seed Riku Hatono.