KUALA LUMPUR: The BA of Malaysia (BAM) has issued a stern warning to national shuttlers, including top players, that they must deliver results in major tournaments or face firm action.
BAM acting president Datuk V. Subramaniam said the association had agreed to increase the salaries and allowances of certain players but cautioned them against taking BAM for granted in the future.
Subramaniam confirmed that several top players had requested increased support, which the association granted.
Sources revealed that some players will now earn around RM2 million annually by remaining with BAM, excluding prize money.
"The players should not hold BAM to ransom," said Subramaniam after chairing the BAM council meeting at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil on Saturday.
"We are paying the players very well. I don't want to mention the amount, but it is substantial. We do not want our investment to go to waste.
"When there are results, the credit goes to the players, but when they fail, the blame falls on BAM and the coaches.
"We want results from them. There should be no excuses from the players."
Subramaniam added: "It has come to a point where some players think BAM is nothing without them.
"But we have our plans to continue nurturing players through development and to produce future talents.
"The 'star' players must be sincere and keep delivering results. When the day comes that they can no longer perform, they may have to retire.
"We need to be firm to ensure the players stay on track. The onus is also on us to establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and take action if there's no progress."
Subramaniam said the KPIs will be prepared by national coaching director Rexy Mainaky to monitor the players' performance.
Rexy also criticised some players who use BAM as a stepping stone to fame before leaving for better offers elsewhere.
"After making a name for themselves, some players start looking for better offers outside," said Rexy.
"They are nothing without BAM and should appreciate what the association has done for them.
"When they become famous, they only think about themselves.
"We've brought in top coaches, but it won't make a difference if the shuttlers don't put in the effort.
"They're getting everything, and I hope they start producing results."