All hail our badminton champions

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians were exhilarated, to say the least, by the historic feat of Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik who became the first Malaysian men’s doubles world champions at the Badminton World Championships in Tokyo.

From the King to the ordinary citizen, the delight was obvious.

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In a message posted on Istana Negara’s Facebook page, Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah commended the duo and expressed hopes that others could emulate their example.

“The outstanding achievements of Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik have once again proved that Malaysia can produce quality and international athletes.

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“It also proves that with commitment, fighting spirit and hard work, Malaysians are able to compete and succeed at the world level,” Their Majesties said.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob also congratulated the pair on their historic win, adding that their memorable success had been etched into the annals of the country’s badminton story.

“This is a very meaningful gift for the country in conjunction with National Day 2022,” he said in a Facebook post yesterday.

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MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong praised the two players as well.

“Malaysia is the 2022 Badminton World Championships Men’s Doubles champion! Congratulations Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik for successfully defeating Indonesian doubles pair Mohamed Ahsan-Hendra Setiawan 21-19 and 21-14.

“Well done for making the country proud.

“This is the first time that Malaysian representatives have won the world badminton championship and it is a big gift to the people in conjunction with the Independence Day. #DemiMalaysia,” he posted on Facebook.

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MIC president Tan Sri SA Vigneswaran tweeted:

“History is made! Malaysia has its first #badminton world champions! Tahniah, Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik! Malaysia Boleh!”

Other Malaysians also shared their joy.

“Crazy wehh ... first time win in history ... this is Malaysia’s first in the world badminton championship!” tweeted nasrul (@nashsmart).

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Lee Seng Foo (@sengfoo88) posted, “The perfect gift for the country ahead of Hari Kebangsaan. Terima kasih.”

While the praises poured in, some Malaysians cheekily expressed hope for a public holiday to celebrate the achievement.

“I miss the old days where if badminton wins, it must be a holiday,” tweeted pak salam joko erwin anuar (@jabitmustafar).

jonathan (@johnnythin_) asked: “Can get public holiday or not?”