by BERNAMA

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has distributed funds of about US$500,000 (about RM2 million) under its Membership Grants Programme to over 100 member associations so far.

The world badminton governing body believes the programme, which was activated this year, provides opportunities for member associations to access tailored support to assist them in developing badminton in their respective countries.

“Given the uncertain nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is vital that we reach out and support our member associations. The BWF Membership Grants Programme provides us with a necessary platform to achieve this in 2020.

“Long-term, we see the Grants Programme facilitating continued and consistent assistance for members in helping them deliver key badminton activities in their countries,” BWF president Poul-Erik Hoyer said in a statement.

BWF said it decided to adjust the grants programme for 2020 in order to meet the current needs of member associations, particularly those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including restrictions on international travel and activities.

The released funds are tied to a ‘Back to Badminton’ theme, aimed at stimulating a return of badminton activities in the current environment.

Meanwhile, Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) secretary-general Datuk Kenny Goh confirmed that the national body was not among the recipients as the grant is only for developing member associations.