“This is my way of giving back” – Lee Chong Wei Joins Badminton Association of Malaysia Council

Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei has accepted an invitation to join the council of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), driven by gratitude toward the organisation that helped shape his career, loyalty, and his friendship with newly appointed BAM president, Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

“I agreed to be in the council because this is my way of giving back to the organisation that made me who I am today,” said Chong Wei.

Lee cited his long-standing relationship with Tengku Zafrul, dating back to his playing days when BAM was sponsored by Maybank—as a key factor in his decision. When Tengku Zafrul assumed the presidency on May 10, he reached out to Lee, emphasising how valuable his experience could be for the sport.

“Many don’t know this, but I’ve known Tengku Zafrul since my playing days when BAM was sponsored by Maybank. Later, he moved to CIMB, and we continued to stay in touch. Even when he became Finance Minister, we remained close friends,” Lee explained.

Although initially hesitant due to his many responsibilities including roles as a sports ambassador for Johor, a member of the Road to Gold committee, and a position on the National Sports Council board Lee ultimately felt that contributing meaningfully to BAM was worthwhile.

“He contacted me and asked me to be part of the council. He said I could contribute to the sport given my vast experience. It took me a while to say yes because I had to think carefully before committing. I wear a lot of hats.”

Lee praised Tengku Zafrul’s leadership style, noting his proactive and inclusive approach during his first 100 days in office, which included engaging with stakeholders and the media.

Lee Chong Wei is one of four new independent council members, alongside Tan Sri Gooi Hoe Soon, Datuk Sunil Abraham, and Datuk Seri Shazalli Ramly. While his specific responsibilities such as possibly heading a high-performance committee have yet to be confirmed, they will be finalised following the council’s meeting in October.

For Chong Wei, the mission is clear and collective.

“I hope together, we will bring back the glory days of Malaysian badminton.”

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Also Read: “Oyenball?” – Lee Chong Wei Plays Pickleball With Tengku Zafrul, Jokes About Origins of Its Name