Kuala Lumpur: Malaysian badminton legend Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei has made his official return to the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) as a newly appointed council member. But he’s made it clear: he’s not doing it for the money — he’s doing it to give back.
Speaking to Malaysian media, the three-time Olympic silver medalist and former world No. 1 said his decision to accept the appointment was fueled by gratitude for BAM’s role in shaping his illustrious career.
“BAM has done so much for me throughout my journey as a player. This is my way of giving back — not just to BAM, but to the country,” said the 42-year-old, who retired in 2019.
“Whatever I can contribute, I’ll share it for the benefit of our national team.”
🔁 A Selfless Return to Serve
Lee also revealed that his strong working relationship with BAM’s newly elected President Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz was a major reason for his return.
“From the start, Tengku Zafrul regularly engaged with me, always open to views from not only players, but coaches and even the media. A few weeks ago, he asked if I would join the BAM council to help raise the team’s performance,” Lee explained.
Despite already holding several roles — including as a Road to Gold (RTG) committee member, National Sports Council (MSN) board member, and Johor Sports Ambassador — Lee felt called to contribute.
“A lot of people think being on the MSN or BAM council comes with a big paycheck. But actually, it’s all voluntary. Just like the president. My goal isn’t financial — it’s about helping develop the next generation of Malaysian badminton players.”
🏸 Clear Goals and Team Spirit
Lee praised the three major goals set by Tengku Zafrul’s new leadership:
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Win the Thomas Cup in 2026
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Capture Malaysia’s first Olympic gold medal in Los Angeles 2028
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Produce at least three world No. 1 players or pairs by 2030
“This is a positive direction because everyone — from players to coaches to officials — now shares a clear vision. To succeed, we must work as one team,” Lee said.
He pledged to offer his full support in restoring Malaysia’s dominance on the world badminton stage.
🔎 Calls for Real Influence, Not Symbolic Role
Meanwhile, former Malaysian men’s doubles ace Tan Boon Heong has voiced strong support for Lee’s appointment — but with a caveat: Lee must be given real decision-making power.
“Lee Chong Wei is a three-time Olympic silver medalist and three-time World Championship finalist. He shouldn’t just be a symbolic role or ceremonial ambassador,” said Tan.
He added that BAM must clearly define Lee’s role and allow him to leverage his deep knowledge and experience to make actionable decision to help raise the overall standard of Malaysian badminton.
🎤 Minister of Youth and Sports Welcomes the Move
Minister of Youth and Sports of Malaysia Hannah Yeoh also congratulated Lee on his appointment, noting that his return to BAM had been highly anticipated since she assumed office in 2022.
“Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei has so much to offer to Malaysian badminton. He shouldn’t be sitting on the sidelines. His presence within BAM is long overdue,” she stated.
With renewed leadership, strong vision, and Lee Chong Wei back in the fold, BAM is entering a new chapter — one that fans hope will spark a revival of Malaysia’s global badminton dominance.
