KUALA LUMPUR — Three-time Olympic silver medallist, Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei expressed his complete trust in the leadership Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) president Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, stating that he is the ideal person to uphold Malaysia’s legacy in the world of badminton.
The former world No. 1, who was handpicked by Tengku Zafrul to join BAM’s council in August, said the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry had already shown his commitment despite juggling a busy cabinet portfolio.
“In recent years we have achieved some really good results, and I strongly believe Tengku Zafrul can continue the legacy and bring Malaysian badminton to greater heights,” said Chong Wei, who also sits on the Road to Gold (RTG) committee and the National Sports Council (NSC) board.
He added that what stood out was Tengku Zafrul’s professionalism and willingness to engage directly with stakeholders.
“Why I say this is because when he was elected president, he asked for 100 days to meet and speak to all stakeholders, and he has already done that. This was done despite his hectic schedule as a cabinet minister. Not only that, but he has also met all 15 state presidents to share his vision,” Chong Wei told Scoop when contacted.
Tengku Zafrul took over the BAM presidency in May from Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria, who now serves as the national body’s honorary life president.
Under Norza’s leadership, Malaysia enjoyed a golden spell, including its first-ever badminton World Championships title through men’s doubles duo Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, as well as back-to-back Olympic bronze medals from the same pair.
Norza also played a key role in the rise of newly crowned mixed doubles world champions Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei, along with women’s doubles stars Pearly Tan and M. Thinaah.
Since stepping in, Tengku Zafrul has moved quickly, increasing player allowances and brokering the deal to keep Pearly and Thinaah under BAM after they considered turning professional. He also unveiled the Tangkis 2030 blueprint, which targets victories at the Thomas Cup, Asian Games, World Championships, and Malaysia’s elusive first Olympic gold medal.
Chong Wei said the groundwork laid by Norza has given Tengku Zafrul a strong platform to build on, but Malaysian badminton fans could expect more in the months ahead.
“I’m certain that all of us are waiting in excitement to see what he will bring to the table. I’m sure more will be revealed later this month,” said Chong Wei.
With BAM aiming high under Tangkis 2030, Chong Wei believes the combination of Norza’s foundation and Tengku Zafrul’s leadership offers Malaysian badminton its best chance yet at scaling new heights on the world stage. – October 1, 2025