Astro Kem Badminton (AKB) 2026 concludes its nationwide tour this week with a final stop at Arena Sukan Kuala Lumpur, bringing together more than 1,800 young players from across Malaysia. Organised by Astro together with support from the Ministry of Education (KPM), the three-day finale marks the culmination of the AKB 2026 Tour, which began with its launch at SJKC Yuk Chai before continuing to Penang, Johor, and Miri.
Participants aged 10 to 12 moved through multiple stations, which involved techniques such as drop, smash, lob, amongst other. They were then put into short match scenarios where they had to apply what they had just practised under pressure.
Since its launch in 2012, AKB has trained more than 25,000 children nationwide, strengthening its role in grassroots badminton development and providing equal training opportunities for boys and girls across Malaysia under professional coaching. Group Chief Executive Officer of Astro, Euan Smith, said, “Grassroots development is where the future begins. As the ‘Home of Sports’, we believe inspiration starts early, when children are given the opportunity, coaching, and belief that they can go further.
At the grassroots level, we’re not just developing athletes, we’re nurturing confidence, discipline, and resilience that these young people can carry for life. While talent identification is important, elevating the children is the heart of Astro Kem Badminton. Our aim is to ensure that even those who don’t pursue badminton professionally walk away with experiences that shape them to becoming more well-rounded people.”
Adding to the excitement, Astro Ceria’s Tangkis cast members Imran Aqil and Wanie Kayrie joined the players at the KL stop, alongside Astro Group CEO Euan Smith, engaging with participants through interactive sessions and on-ground activities throughout the event. Support systems have remained a strong and consistent presence throughout the programme. Parents, and even teachers have been coming in droves, supporting participants throughout the Tour, with many travelling across states to accompany their children and observe training sessions.
Many were seen recording videos of their children during matches and drills. During breaks between sessions, several participants ran back to their parents for quick moments of rest and encouragement before returning to the courts. While the AKB Tour 2026 concludes in Kuala Lumpur, the programme does not end here. Standout performers from the finale will be selected to attend the AKB KL Selection Camp in July, where they will undergo further evaluation and advanced training as part of the programme’s development pathway.
From there, top talents will progress to the AKB Regional Training in Thailand in December 2026, offering selected participants exposure to a higher level of training and international development experience. As AKB enters its 13th year, the programme continues to serve as a structured pathway for young Malaysian badminton players to develop their skills, gain competitive exposure, and progress beyond the grassroots level through high-level training, while ensuring that players who come through the programme are ready for a future where their careers may lie off the court.
