Chong Wei says welcomes support for badminton, regardless of politics after teaming up with Khairy for friendly match

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 13 — Barisan Nasional’s Sungai Buloh candidate Khairy Jamaluddin teamed up with former world number one shuttler Datuk Lee Chong Wei for a friendly badminton match.

The match took place at the Yosin badminton hall in Kampung Subang which is a 15-minute drive from Sungai Buloh, where Khairy will be contesting in the 15the general election (GE15).

Hundreds sat by the sidelines to watch the three-time silver Olympic medallist in action. Lee and Khairy played two games, first teaming up to go against the event organiser Lee Tick Wah and former national player and coach Lee Winnie, then teaming up with several youth players.

Cheers and shouts erupted in the hall as the players scored points with their quick movements and techniques.

“I came here in hopes of inspiring the younger generation to play badminton and be engaged in sports. I want more of the younger generation to play badminton.

“I am willing to lend my support to badminton events, doesn’t matter if it’s organised by Barisan Nasional or Pakatan Harapan, as long as my schedule allows it,” Lee said, before being shuffled away by his admirers for signatures and photographs.

Khairy, who was donning the black and orange SEA Games tee, said he hopes Lee’s participation in the program today would continue to inspire young people to perform in the national and international sports arena.

“The two of us have been friends for a long time — since I held the portfolio as Minister of Youth and Sports. We are proud and lucky that Chong Wei was able to participate in this morning’s programme.

“I hope that Chong Wei will continue to inspire young players to work hard as an athlete. He won the title of number one player in the world not only because of his talent but also contributed through hard work,” he said.

Many fans, players and non-players alike, flocked to the hall when they heard that Lee was dropping by in the morning.