After months of speculation, national women’s doubles stalwarts Pearly Tan and M. Thinaah have agreed to sign lucrative new contracts with the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), reportedly worth RM1 million (around 235,000 US dollars) each per year. This significant deal puts an end to rumors that the world No. 3 pair might opt for independent status.
Sources close to BAM indicate that the bumper offer was approved at a recent BAM council meeting, despite initial reports suggesting the duo had sought an even higher package, which temporarily delayed the agreement. However, BAM is believed to be open to further increasing the package if Pearly-Thinaah achieve their performance targets at three crucial upcoming tournaments: the Japan Open (July 15-20), China Open (July 22-27), and the World Championships in Paris (August 25-31).
The pair are expected to put pen to paper this weekend before departing for Tokyo, signaling a renewed commitment to the national setup until at least the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. Their previous contracts had expired in December last year, leading to widespread speculation about their future.
BAM President Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz had previously assured that the contract issue would be resolved before the pair headed to Japan, a promise he has now delivered on.
Pearly and Thinaah have been in formidable form recently, demonstrating their prowess on the international stage. Their impressive run includes winning the Thailand Open, securing a runner-up finish at the Indonesia Open, reaching the semi-finals of the Malaysia Masters, and making it to the quarter-finals of the Singapore Open.
When approached for comment at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) on Tuesday, BAM secretary-general Datuk Kenny Goh remained tight-lipped but hinted at the positive outcome. “Just wait… the president already said it’ll be sorted before the Japan Open, and there are still a few days to go,” he remarked. “As he mentioned, the discussions have been very positive. That’s all I can say. Of course, we want what’s best so let’s wait and see.”
This new agreement not only solidifies Pearly and Thinaah’s place within the national team but also underscores BAM’s commitment to investing in its top talents as they strive for more international glory.