KUCHING: J-Pro Academy Kuching plans to increase its number of badminton players in 2026, with head coach Kong Chee Kiet planning to add more classes and evening training to build a stronger youth pipeline.
Kong said the academy will extend training hours at its centres mainly in Stapok Badminton Court and gradually to Tabuan Laru Family Club, both in Kuching.
This is to meet growing demand from parents who want their kids to have proper sports training.
J-Pro also has a branch in Miri, led by Kong’s partner and academy founder, James Liaw.
This expansion is part of the academy’s goal to develop more players under 10 and under 12 years old.
Kong said these age groups need more support in order to compete with West Malaysia.
“We are developing some players now, those aged seven to 10 years old. That’s the main vision we are pursuing for the future. It’s my vision for this year. We hope to build some Under-10 and Under-12 players who can compete in West Malaysia,” he told Sarawak Tribune during a training session.
To support this, the academy plans to expand training sessions, add coaching resources, and increase tournament participation to give young shuttlers valuable competitive experience.
“We are working on adding more classes and centres. Since some players can’t join afternoon sessions, we plan to introduce evening classes,” Kong added.
“Classes will mostly be on Tuesday and Friday, from 6.00 pm to 8.00 pm at Stapok Badminton Court.”
Kong shared that interest in J-Pro Academy is growing steadily, driven largely by word of mouth and social media.
“Most new players come through social media, where parents share information and recommendations,” he said.
“Some parents learn about us through tuition centres and schools, where we collaborate to identify young talents.”
He noted that parents have become increasingly health-conscious post-COVID and want their children to be active beyond academics.
“Many send their kids for training once a week. After one or two months, some parents notice their children’s interest growing. We also scout for talented kids,” Kong added.
Assisting Kong is Rajeev Bijoy, who is also passionate about coaching the next generation of players.
Meanwhile, sponsorship remains a challenge for private clubs, especially for tournament travel, but more junior tournaments are now being organised within Sarawak.
“As a private club, sponsoring players to tournaments is our biggest challenge, but it’s improving,” Kong said.
He hopes these grassroots efforts will inspire more children to take badminton seriously and help Sarawak produce the next generation of national players.
