KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 — The new title sponsor of the Malaysia Open Superseries Premier will be announced on Monday with BA of Malaysia (BAM) general manager Lawrence Chew without changes to its budget.

The tournament is from April 5 to 10 at Malawati Stadium and the world’s top players are expected to play as it is the final month of the Olympic qualifying period.

“The new sponsors have given the green light to RM4 million budget,” said Lawrence.

“We have set aside US$605,000 (RM2.4 million) for prize money (US$550,000 or RM2.28 million) plus a 10 per cent of that amount as a fee to Badminton World Federation, leaving BAM with RM1.6 million to organise the tournament,” said Lawrence.

“Malawati is not a new stadium and many upgrades and cosmetic changes are needed to have the look and feel of a premier event. If investments are not made wisely we would lose spectators’ interest.”

Lawrence, who was a director with Swiss BA from 2007 to 2014, said RM1.4 million was not huge compared to other events around the world.

“We do not have a huge budget but the spending is not important. It is what returns you get that matter. We hope to make a profit through ticket sales, sponsorships and other stuff,” he said.

“The Malaysia Open is an entertainment business that benefits BAM. I look at it as a showcase for legends as we have players like Lee Chong Wei, Lin Dan and Chen Long among others competing for the top prize.”

Lawrence said BAM have been liaising with Shah Alam City Council regarding repairs to Malawati Stadium and had been assured necessary works are being carried out.

Earlier this month, the World Team Table Tennis Championships were held at the venue and there were problems with leaks, holes in ceilings, dimly lit walkways and power-cuts.

“We’ve been informed the holes in the roof have been patched up but problems like leaks can only be addressed if it rains heavily. They have done their best to minimise the problems.

“The stadium is large and they have repaired what they could. If any situation arises, they will be dealt with promptly,” said Lawrence.