Shuttler still a hero in eyes of Penangites

GEORGE TOWN: Thousands applauded and shoutedMalaysia boleh during the tense match between Datuk Lee Chong Wei and Chen Long of China in the men’s singles badminton finals in the Rio Olympics.

Penangites then united to sing Negaraku with great fervour at the open air festive square in Gurney Paragon Mall as they were overwhelmed by the emotions they had felt throughout the match last night.

Housewife Adel Yeap, 40, who came out to support Chong Wei, brought her three children aged between three and 11 and a banner decorated with gold glitter reading, “We love (a heart shape) U Datuk Lee Chong Wei”.

“He is our country’s hero no matter what the results read. We admire his fighting spirit and are are so proud of him,” she said, adding he was still a winner to her family.

Student Oei Liang Zhi, 18, said he was still going to celebrate as Chong Wei was his idol and the best player in his eyes.

“I look up to him and he has shown such dedication throughout the whole Olympics,” he said.

They had earlier been glued to the 2.13m by 4.88m LED screen set up for the screening which was organised by the mall and the state government.

Over at mamak stalls near Kompleks Bukit Jambul, Chong Wei still won the hearts of many patrons.

Some were seen shouting in anxiety whenever Chong Wei missed a shuttle or made a mistake while others sighed heavily whenever he missed a shot.

Civil servant Ibrahim Wahab, 46, said no matter what, they are still proud of Chong Wei.

“I’m sure every Malaysian will be proud of him,” he said when met at a mamak stall.

Friends K. Navindran and S. Vasudas, both 19, said Chong Wei would always be their hero no matter what.

“We all know that he had gave his best and played his best,” they said.

Sources: The Star

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