Former Indonesian women's doubles coach Paulus Firman who was employed by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) reported at the BAM office today but expected to start his duties on Friday.

Paulus who attended a meeting with BAM and doubles head coach Tan Kim Her today has been assigned to coach the country's top men's doubles pair Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong, plus Hoon Thein How-Tan Wee Kiong and Lutfi Zaim Abdul Khalid-Tan Wee Gieen.

"This is a big responsibility and a new challenge for as I have been given the task to coach the men's doubles teams but I hope to raise my performance. I hope to work closely with the players to raise their level of play," Paulus told reporters at the BAM office here today.

Paulus has been offered a two-year contract and fill up the spot vacated by Pang Cheh Chang who has been appointed head coach of the national junior doubles at the Bukit Jalil Sports School (SSBJ).

The Indonesian coach said there was no difference in the coaching method or regime between men or women players.

"Malaysian players have good skill and technique but a little weak in their focus and physical condition. This is one area I will have to work and I hope with the cooperation from players, we can succeed," he said.
Paulus said he has about six months to prepare the players before the first major test since the World Championships is scheduled in Guangzhou, China come August.