COMMENT | It is challenging to fathom the thinking behind the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM)’s suspension of Lee Zii Jia and Goh Jin Wei from competing for two years because of a decision to turn professional.

First, such a ruling is a glaring example of bad parenting when proven evidence regarding progressive nurturing and parenting abounds.

Secondly, there are multiple international examples to the contrary, in which athletes who have left their national “institutional nest” to become professionals are able to continue to represent their respective countries.

There is no disguising the tone in BAM’s action that Lee (above) has shown no gratitude to the Association for nurturing him for 11 years or so. This is the sort of guilt trip some parents give their children when it is time for them to fly the nest.

Watching children spread their wings and develop an independent path into the future can be hard for parents, and wise parents support this essential stage of their children’s growth as they mature into adults themselves.

It's perfectly understandable to...