Malaysia Diving: Li Brothers Join Singapore Team

PETALING JAYA, January 10, 2026 – Malaysia’s diving program is facing a talent drain, losing another key coach to Singapore. This follows the recent departure of wendy Ng Yan Yee, and now Li Junbai, a Chinese diving coach, has also accepted a position with the Singaporean team, who recently celebrated their first SEA Games male gold medallist in 60 years with Avvir Tham.

Singapore Gains as Malaysia’s Diving Program Faces Setbacks

The loss of Li Junbai and his brother Junsong represents a significant shift in the regional diving landscape.

• Li Junbai, a Chinese diving coach, has moved from Malaysia to singapore.
• His younger brother, Junsong, is also no longer with the Malaysian coaching staff.
• Singapore recently achieved a milestone, winning its first SEA Games male gold medal in diving in 60 years.
• The departures follow that of diver Wendy Ng Yan Yee.

Did you know? – Diving requires remarkable athleticism, combining gymnastics, acrobatics, and the precise physics of water entry.

What impact will these coaching changes have on Malaysia’s competitive edge in diving? The loss of experienced figures like Li Junbai could potentially hinder the growth of future talent and affect the nation’s performance in upcoming competitions.

Coaching Exodus Raises Questions

junbai and Junsong are no longer part of the Malaysian coaching setup, signaling a potential restructuring or shift in strategy within the national diving program. The timing of these departures, coupled with Ng Yan Yee’s move, raises questions about the overall health and direction of diving in Malaysia.

Singapore’s recent success at the SEA Games, securing their first male gold medal in diving in six decades, may be a contributing factor to attracting talent from neighboring countries.

Pro tip – Consistent training and meticulous technique refinement are vital for divers to minimize splash and maximize scores.

The move to Singapore comes on the heels of a historic win for the nation’s diving team. Avvir Tham’s gold medal at the SEA Games marked a turning point for Singaporean diving, demonstrating the potential for growth and success with dedicated coaching and resources.

The departures highlight the competitive nature of sports coaching, where opportunities and resources play a crucial role in attracting and retaining talent. It remains to be seen how Malaysia will respond to these changes and rebuild its diving program for future success.

Reader question – How significant are financial incentives in attracting coaches to different national programs? Share your thoughts.