PETALING JAYA: World champions Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei are grateful for the recognition that has come their way but remain determined to stay grounded despite their historic feat.
The mixed doubles pair received RM50,000 from snack and beverage company Mamee in a simple ceremony in Subang Jaya on Thursday (Aug 4).
It was their second reward after the government announced an incentive of RM20,000 under the Shakam scheme on Tuesday (Sept 2).
The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) are also set to reward the duo, with president Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz expected to make the announcement personally in honour of their achievement as Malaysia’s first-ever mixed doubles world champions.
But the pair insist that the rewards will not distract them from their pursuit of greater success.
Tang Jie-Ee Wei created history at the World Championships in Paris last week after overcoming China’s world No. 2 duo Jiang Zhenbang-Wei Yaxin in the final.
“As athletes, everyone faces their own pressure. For us, nothing has changed — we will start again from zero and remain humble.
“Our next step is to set new targets. Training will continue as usual, and we must maintain discipline because it is badminton that has given us this success,” said Tang Jie.
Ee Wei, meanwhile, believes the rewards will serve as extra motivation for them to perform even better on the international stage.
“Of course it motivates us because we have worked so hard for so long. Now we want to enjoy this moment. Thank you to Mamee and to all Malaysians who have always supported us,” she said.
