BAM Refuses Pearly Tan/Thinaah Muralitharan’s Wish to Become Independent Players

The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) has refused to release world number 5 women’s doubles pair — Pearly Tan and Thinaah Muralitharan — who are planning to become independent players.

BAM’s interim chairman, Datuk V Subramaniam, emphasized that the association has invested substantial funds in developing both athletes since their junior level — including when Pearly Tan partnered with Toh Ee Wei and won silver at the World Junior Championships seven years ago.

Although their contract with BAM expired earlier this year—the governing body has issued a deadline for Tan/Thinaah to decide their future following reports that the pair had requested a salary increase prior to their intention to leave.

This standoff highlights the increasing tension between national badminton bodies and top-ranked players—seeking greater autonomy and control over their careers.

The final decision by BAM could significantly impact Malaysia’s doubles prospects heading into future international tournaments.