Malaysians remember Punch Gunalan

PETALING JAYA: Sixty-eight-year-old badminton legend Datuk Punch Gunalan's death on Wednesday morning was met with grief from Malaysian fans.

Here are some of the responses and tributes for the late shuttler which were received at [e-mail]:

Sooi Yew: Not only Malaysians are in grief but the entire global community in the world of badminton. We lost such a great man who is part of the great history of badminton. RIP Punch.

Mohinder Singh: Badminton as a sport would have been dead in Malaysia without the tremendous effort and stamina put in by Datuk Punch Gunalan to promote it. This game has matured now as we can see the fruit of the hard earned lessons which Datuk and his fellow players have gone through in the early years.

KW Wong: In the 1970s, Punch, even after finding fame, used to drop by unannounced at our school hall in KGV Seremban to check out the latest crop of badminton players. He always brought along some game-related gifts to spur the players on. He showed no airs. To him, it's just a visit to his former hunting ground.

Vijay Nowuram: Thank you Datuk for the punch' you gave to Malaysian badminton. Thank you for your contribution to the world of badminton. Thank you for the medals and accolades which made the Malaysian flag fly high and mighty. Thank you for your passion and commitment. Thank you for the golden memories. Now, rest in peace.

Rudran SB: Hail to the man who was known as “Mr. Badminton” in Malaysia. A true legend whose name was spoken in the same breath as Rudy Hartono and whose passion was unrivalled for the game. A 21 gun-salute for a great man who put the sport above monetary gains or fame and fought for every point. RIP.

Adrian KPK: You inspired many. You have given up you whole life for badminton. You serve the country and put us on the world map. Many have forgotten but the glory of 1992 will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, my badminton brother.

Sarasivathy Eddiah: May God bless his soul. You will always be remembered as long as badminton is played. My condolences to his family and friends, be strong.

Devendran Muthusamy: Our deepest condolences to Datuk Gunalan's family. It is a sad Wednesday indeed. He has left an everlasting impression in badminton world with his accomplishment. It was not an easy ride for Datuk (who hailed from Sepang) as he needed to prove to himself and also to the world that we Malaysians have abudance of talent in badminton. I would proudly say that without Datuk, there would not be great badminton players - from the Sidek brothers up to our Datuk Lee Chong Wei. May his soul rest in peace.

Kwong Yee Choo: It sad to see the passing away of a dedicated sportsman. You don't come across someone so dedicated to the game nowadays. The nation should honour such sportsmen during their lifetime.