KUALA LUMPUR, July 14 — Tan Kian Meng may still be finding his feet in mixed doubles but the 21-year-old has welcomed the challenge and is eager to carve a new chapter in his career.

“I’m getting used to playing with someone besides me. Initially it was difficult to make the transition but after two training sessions, I’m getting the hang of it,” said Tan, who was moved to the department by Morten Frost in a bid to rejuvenate his career.

The lanky shuttler, who was partnered with Peck Yen Mei by the BA of Malaysia technical director, will get the chance to put their new combination to test at the Perak Open (July 25-30).

“I want to make at least the last eight, if not the semifinals,” said Tan.

“My partnership with Yen Mei is getting better but I need to improve on my defence and court coverage. I need to think faster on court as well as doubles exchanges are quicker,” said Tan, who was in just warned by Lee Chong Wei to steer clear of his path in the mixed doubles.

“He will also be playing in the mixed doubles and joked I can go far provided I don’t come up against him,” said Tan of Lee, who will partner Vivian Hoo at the Perak Open as a final warm-up before the World Championships.

Tan’s coach Chin Ee Hui sees plenty of encouraging signs in her new understudy, whom she says has plenty of potential.

“Kian Meng has good height and his smashes are potent. In mixed doubles, these traits are a big advantage and he could strike fear in opponents if he keeps refining them,” said Chin.

“He has improved a lot since coming on board but I can only evaluate the pair after the Perak Open.”