KUCHING: Sarawak’s presence on the international badminton stage continues to grow as Isyraf Hafizin and Genevie Lim have secured places in Malaysia’s squad for the Badminton Asia Junior Championships 2026 in Japan.
The duo are among 20 players selected to represent the country at the tournament in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto, from June 26 to July 5.
Malaysia will compete in the Mixed Team Championship from June 26 to 30 before turning its attention to the Individual Championships from July 1 to 5.
The national contingent is led by team manager Datuk Dr Wan Khalik Wan Muhammad, supported by a team of experienced coaches and sports science personnel.
Another Sarawakian, Wafa Shahmina, was initially selected for the championships but withdrew from the tournament to focus on her upcoming school examinations.
Genevie will partner Low Zi Yu in both the Mixed Team and Individual Championships, with the duo set to compete in the women’s doubles event.
The pairing is expected to be among Malaysia’s key combinations, with Low regarded as one of the country’s most promising young talents while Genevie has continued to impress with her consistent performances at the national junior level.
Wan Khalik said the team is well prepared and eager to take on the challenge against Asia’s best junior players.
“The Badminton Asia Junior Championships is one of the most prestigious junior tournaments in Asia and provides an important platform for young players to gain international exposure.
“The team has prepared well and we are confident that every player will give their best for Malaysia.
“We are proud to see Sarawak represented in the national team through Isyraf Hafizin and Genevie Lim. Their selection reflects the continued development of young badminton talent in the state,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
The Badminton Asia Junior Championships regularly features many of Asia’s top emerging talents, with numerous former participants progressing to become world-class players and Olympians.
Team Malaysia departed for Japan today (June 23) aiming to deliver a strong performance while proudly representing the nation on and off the court.
