KUALA LUMPUR – The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) and the Malaysia Stadium Board (PSM) have clarified that the water droplets seen on the courts at the ongoing Malaysia Masters were not due to a leaking roof.
Instead, the droplets were caused by condensation forming on the metal sprinkler pipes that run across all four courts at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil.
PSM confirmed to Scoop today that there are no leaks in the roof, which underwent renovation works completed in April.
Despite heavy rain during the first two days of the tournament, there were no signs of leakage. However, today, during the second round of the tournament, droplets were seen falling onto the courts, even though it was sunny outside. Match officials were forced to wipe down the affected areas.
Fans, drawing parallels to the Malaysia Open in January – where roof leaks disrupted early matches – quickly took to social media to tag BAM and Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, demanding answers.
PSM chief executive officer Iliyas Jamil stressed that the situation is different this time.
“We must clarify that the roof is not leaking. The droplets on the courts are due to condensation from the metal sprinkler pipes running above all four courts,” he said.
“Previously, the Axiata Arena’s roof included window hoppers that allowed hot air to escape. But the new roofing design traps heat inside, which leads to condensation forming on the pipes.”
Iliyas added that several solutions have been discussed, although organisers are mindful not to disrupt play, particularly on Court One where live broadcasts are ongoing.
“One solution, agreed upon with BAM, BWF and the tournament referee, is to allocate five to ten minutes between matches to wipe down the pipes. Wrapping the pipes isn’t possible at the moment due to the ongoing tournament.
“Additionally, we’ll be keeping the air-conditioning running non-stop until the final day on Sunday in hopes of reducing the heat and minimising condensation.”
BAM deputy president and tournament chairman Datuk V. Subramaniam also reiterated the clarification.
“This is not a leak. It’s a technical issue, and we’re working closely with PSM to resolve it,” he said. – May 22, 2025