Harry Hartono was announced as one of two new national men’s singles coaches last week.

While most fans are familiar with Yeoh Kay Bin, a former national shuttler who most recently worked with Lee Zii Jia, the profile of Harry Hartono perhaps remains a mystery.

Stadium Astro looks into some of the credentials of this individual tasked with reviving the biggest portfolio in Malaysian badminton.

Built his coaching career at PBSI

Hartono is no stranger to the national senior coaching setup, where he served at the Badminton Association of Indonesia from 2023 to 2024.

This was his first notable stint at the association where he served as assistant to Indonesia men’s singles chief Irwansyah Adi Pratama.

During this time, the duo formed a potent partnership to strengthen the men’s singles scene which saw the likes of Anthony Ginting and Jonatan Christie become a top 10 powerhouse.

Played a key role in the careers of Ginting, Christie & Farhan

Together with Irwansyah, Hartono helped elevate the careers of Ginting and Christie, also harnessing the potential of Farhan into a world beater at just 20.

Hartono helped Indonesia clinch a silver medal at the 2024 Thomas Cup, and propelled Christie to become an All-England & Asian champion that year.

As for Farhan, Hartono played a key role in helping the youngster secure his maiden World Tour title in 2024, before guiding him to the SEA Games gold in December last year.

Promoted to senior rank at BAM

Joining the Badminton Association of Malaysia will mark Hartono’s first senior appointment, having served as an assistant throughout his career in Indonesia.

This is probably one of the key reasons for Harry's departure from his homeland to Malaysia, where he will now work alongside national singles head coach Tey Seu Bock and director Kenneth Jonassen.

Under the new men’s singles coaching structure, Hartono and K.Yogendran will serve as senior coaches, with the junior coaches consisting of Yeoh, Goh Giap Chin and Alvin Chew.