As an independent shuttler, one of the first few things Lee Zii Jia will need to look into is to build his own team and scour for a training base.

The world number seven, in an exclusive interview with Astro Arena, also shed some light to his decision to break away from the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) .

"I feel as a young shuttler, it is time for me to have my own standing. The world is changing and everyone is evolving. I felt like it was time for me to do the same, and why not try outside?

"I think I did my best in BAM, and even they did their best for me. But I can tell you that I am a product of BAM. If they call me for duty for the country, I will be there. For now, the immediate plan is to build my own team and find for a training base," Lee said.

The All-England champion also revealed he made the decision to go independent after the BWF World Championships in December, where he had to retire in the quarter-finals due to a huge foot blister.

His family was initially apprehensive of him leaving the comforts of the national association.

"At first they didn't agree. They asked me 'Why do you want to leave your comfort zone? It's not so easy to find sponsors out there'. But when I explained the situation to them they eventually supported me. I have to thank them, because I wouldn't have made this decision without their support," he said.

Lee added there were offers from potential sponsors after he won the All-England last year, but he still wanted to continue with the BAM at that time.

The Kedah-born's next assignment should come at the Asia Team Championships scheduled in Shah Alam from February 15-20.