KUALA LUMPUR – While Lee Zii Jia and his professional outfit, Team LZJ, have remained silent on Wong Tat Meng’s condition, the former shuttler’s physical trainer, Lim Joe Heang, has stepped forward with fresh updates on the coach.
Tat Meng, 58, was critically injured in a motorcycle crash on Putty Road, Hunter Valley, Australia, last Sunday, which also claimed the life of another rider in his 50s. He has been in intensive care since.
In an Instagram post on Monday (Sept 15), Joe Heang said Tat Meng is “responsive” despite sustaining multiple injuries.
“Coach Tat Meng is responsive. Despite a lot of injuries everywhere, his brain is ok, his spine is ok. Strong man with crazy fighting spirit!!” he wrote.
Joe Heang also urged the badminton fraternity to avoid speculation.
“Let’s put our energy and strength together for his speedy recovery and stop spreading rumours,” he added.
The update will come as some relief to Malaysian fans who have been anxiously awaiting news about Tat Meng, who guided Zii Jia to a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics before parting ways with Team LZJ shortly after.
Tat Meng, himself a former national player, later moved to Australia where he continued coaching while pursuing his passion for motorcycling. — September 16, 2025