National junior doubles coach Pang Cheh Chang has declined to comment on speculation that he may be promoted to lead Malaysia’s senior mixed doubles squad. The 52-year-old coach, who spoke briefly after a national team training session at Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara on Tuesday, said any decisions regarding coaching appointments should come from the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).

“I have no comment. Just wait for the announcement from BAM,” Pang said when approached for remarks.

Pang confirmed that he has been assisting with the senior mixed doubles squad since last week to help address a coaching shortage. This came about after newly appointed head coach Teo Kok Siang accompanied national players to compete at the China Masters tournament, leaving Lutfi Zaim to oversee other squad training sessions at ABM, with Pang stepping in to support. Pang also noted that he continues to have responsibilities with the junior team.

Pang is widely regarded as a front-runner to replace Nova Widianto, who resigned in July citing family commitments. This potential appointment would mark a return for Pang to the senior mixed doubles setup, having previously served as head coach in 2018 following Chin Eei Hui’s departure. He then transitioned back to coaching junior players in 2019.

Meanwhile, BAM emphasized that no official decisions have been made regarding the head coach position for the national mixed doubles department. In a statement, the association said it is still in the process of evaluating and vetting candidates.

“BAM wishes to clarify that no appointment has been finalised for the position of head coach of the national mixed doubles department,” the statement said. “The association will make an official announcement once the appointment has been finalised.”

For now, the national mixed doubles coaching role remains unfilled as BAM continues its selection process.