Petronas becomes BAM’s largest sponsor

Malaysia – The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) signed a three-year sponsorship arrangement with Petronas and its subsidiary Petronas Dagangan Berhad today, making it the largest sponsorship deal in the sport’s history.

The cooperation with the country’s two most well-known businesses aims to improve Malaysian badminton’s performance by improving the training and preparation of national shuttlers, particularly ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The agreement will also assist BAM’s overall development programs.

Petronas’ emblem will be prominently displayed on national team shirts beginning with the 2022 All England Championships, which will be held from March 16 to 20.

In June, Petronas will become the title sponsor of the Malaysia Open, and the Akademi Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara will be renamed Petronas ABM.

At a news conference following the Partnership Agreement Signing Ceremony at ABM, BAM president Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria remarked, “This is the biggest sponsorship since the creation of BAM.” He did not reveal the value of the sponsorship.

“This day marks the beginning of a new era. It’s shocking news, but in a positive manner, for us (BAM). Petronas is a wonderful addition to our team. This funding will allow us to stay focused on our preparations for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris,” he continued.

PDB managing director and chief executive officer Azrul Osman Rani and Mohamad Norza signed the sponsorship deal.

Petronas and PDB, according to Azrul, are happy to be involved with BAM and to be part of their mission to elevate Malaysian badminton to new heights at all levels.

“As a firm dedicated to energizing Malaysia, we share the association’s commitment to the sport’s long-term development in accordance with their aim of continually triumphing on the global stage,” he added.

BAM struck a five-year sponsorship arrangement with Yonex, a well-known worldwide badminton brand, for RM55 million (excluding incentives) in April of last year.

BAM and Taiwan sports goods company Victor announced a six-year sponsorship contract for RM60 million in 2015.