PETALING JAYA: Former shuttler Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin (pic) is returning to his roots - wiser and ready to give back.

Iskandar will leave his current position as Ireland’s coach and join Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) as the women’s singles head coach on Oct 1.

The 34-year-old will fill the vacancy left behind by Indonesian Jeffer Rosobin, who resigned at the end of February.

Iskandar is keen to use his experience gained in Ireland to improve the fortunes of the women’s singles.

“It feels great to return to BAM – not as a player this time, but as a coach ready to give back,” said Iskandar, who played for Malaysia from 2007-2021 before venturing into coaching.

“My journey in Ireland taught me so much, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to apply those lessons here.

“I see potential in the women’s singles players and my focus will be on building their confidence, sharpening their tactical and physical awareness, and supporting them to break through at the international level.

“I would like to thank BAM for the trust and opportunity – it means a lot to contribute to the sport I love, in the place where it all began for me.”

Iskandar impressed singles coaching director Kenneth Jonassen after making a name for himself in Europe.

Iskandar was instrumental in the rise of men’s singles player Nhat Nguyen, who is now ranked 31 in the world, and has helped elevate the profile of Irish badminton.

Under his guidance, Ireland qualified two players for the Paris Olympics last August, namely Nguyen and women’s singles shuttler Rachael Darragh, marking a major milestone for the country.

Jonassen is confident that Iskandar can help to elevate the levels of the women’s singles players.

“We are pleased to welcome Iskandar back to BAM in this important role. His international coaching stint, combined with his background as a national player, brings a valuable blend of experience and perspective,” said Jonassen.

“Our women’s singles squad is in a crucial phase of transition, and we believe Iskandar is the right person to guide the players, helping them build belief and resilience while pushing for consistent performances on the world stage.”

Malaysia have long struggled to produce world class women’s singles players since the good old days of Woon Sze Mei, Ng Mee Fen, the Wong sisters - Mew Choo and Miew Kheng, Cheah sisters - Soniia and Lydia, Tee Jing Yi, and Ho Yen Mei to mention a few.

Currently, the top two players in BAM are K. Letshanaa (No. 45) and Wong Ling Ching (No. 87).