File pix of Wong Tat Meng talking to his former player Lee Zii Jia.
PETALING JAYA: The BA of Malaysia are relieved with the progress shown by former coach Wong Tat Meng in Australia.
On Thursday (Sept 25), Roketto Badminton, a club based in Lidcombe, Australia, where Tat Meng is attached to as head coach and programme director, made an official announcement on their Facebook page that the 58-year-old has passed the critical stage and was now in stable condition.
BA of Malaysia secretary Datuk Kenny Goh said: "We wish him quick recovery. We're happy to hear that there is progress."
"And we at the BAM will help if there is a need."
Tat Meng had served with the national body from 2003-2011 and 2013-2016 before venturing abroad. He returned last year to coach professional shuttler Lee Zii Jia.
It has been three weeks since Tat Meng was involved in a serious motorcycle accident on Sydney’s north side and was rushed to hospital, where he spent more than two weeks in intensive care after suffering multiple injuries, including fractures to his hip, lower limb, face, shoulder and neck, as well as significant head and spinal trauma.
"He has since been transferred to another hospital with specialist expertise in spinal trauma to ensure he receives the best possible care," stated the club on their Facebook.
Even more encouraging, Tat Meng has started to show positive signs by being able to communicate with those close to him.
"Despite the severity of his injuries, coach Tat Meng has shown remarkable progress. He is no longer in ICU and is now in a specialised ward.
"He is alert, responsive, and able to communicate through hand gestures, facial expressions, and voice. He recognises visitors and interacts with the medical team.
“Doctors have advised that further time is needed to fully assess the long-term impact of the head and spinal injuries on his speech and motor skills. However, there is a strong degree of confidence that he is now past the life-threatening stage."
“We extend our deepest gratitude to the Emergency Services Team, and to the doctors, nurses and hospital staff who have provided extraordinary care with professionalism and compassion. We are also truly thankful for the outpouring of support from friends, family and the broader badminton community.”
