IN conjunction with the Penang Badminton Association (PBA) 100th-anniversary celebration at the end of this year, Malaysian badminton icon Datuk Lee Chong Wei has officially been appointed as the ambassador for the upcoming centennial event.
PBA president Datuk Kah Kau Kiak revealed that the Penang-born legend accepted the role after signing an official appointment letter in Kuala Lumpur last night.
“Chong Wei received his early training from PBA at a very young age. He has made countless contributions to Penang’s badminton scene and played a significant role in the state’s badminton development.
“Even after achieving international fame, Chong Wei has never forgotten the training and support he received from PBA. He has always engaged with Penang’s badminton community.
“His gratitude and appreciation for his roots are truly heartwarming and serve as a great example for future generations of players,” he said.
Kah said that Chong Wei immediately agreed to the ambassadorial role when PBA extended the invitation.
“On behalf of PBA, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Chong Wei. His involvement is a huge morale booster for the centennial celebration, and with his encouragement, we are even more confident in making this event a success,” he said.
The signing event was witnessed by Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) secretary-general Datuk Kenny Goh, BAM vice president Datuk Ng Chin Chai, who is also the president of the Negeri Sembilan Badminton Association, and PBA secretary Leong Kin Yew.
PBA will host a grand banquet on Nov 22 at the SPICE Arena in Penang to commemorate its 100th anniversary.
All former national and state players who have contributed to Penang badminton are invited to celebrate this historic milestone together.
Founded in 1925, PBA is Malaysia’s oldest badminton organization, established even before the Badminton World Federation (BWF). Over the past century, the association has nurtured numerous world-class badminton stars while also playing a crucial role in promoting the sport.
Story by Edmund Lee