PETALING JAYA: Professional men’s singles shuttler Lee Zii Jia has made a sensational return for national duty.
The 27-year-old has agreed to help Malaysia in the Thomas Cup Finals in Horsens, Denmark, from April 24-May 3 without making any demands from the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).
Many had expected the Paris Olympic Games bronze medallist to seek compensation in the form of image rights fees, as he is now a professional player.
He did get the compensation when he last represented Malaysia at the 2024 Thomas Cup Finals in China.
However, in a show of commitment to ending the nation’s 34-year wait for the Thomas Cup title, Zii Jia has agreed to set those matters aside.
“It is with great pleasure to announce that Lee Zii Jia has reached an agreement with the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) to be part of the Thomas Cup squad.
“Zii Jia has also agreed to waive his image rights fee in order to represent the country at the upcoming Thomas Cup, reflecting his commitment and dedication to Malaysia,” Team LZJ said in a statement yesterday.
“We hope this marks a new dawn for Zii Jia and BAM, moving forward together in the best interest of Malaysian badminton.”
Zii Jia also expressed his appreciation to the BAM leadership – president Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and performance committee Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei for placing their trust in him to assist Malaysia’s Thomas Cup mission.
Meanwhile, the National Sports Institute (NSI) chief executive officer Dr P. Vellapandian stated that no charges would be imposed on Zii Jia should he wish to seek treatment with them.
Vellapandian explained that although Zii Jia is not under the BAM, the NSI were prepared to provide complimentary services as he would still be representing the country.
Typically, BAM players enjoy free treatment at the NSI, while professional players bear their own medical expenses as they operate independently.
“As long as he is wearing the Malaysian jersey and competing overseas, the NSI will support him,” said Vellapandian.
Previously, Chong Wei had advised Zii Jia to consult the NSI if he required assistance to better prepare for the Thomas Cup.
