FORMER world No. 1 and Malaysian badminton icon Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei has been conferred one of Penang’s highest state honours, the Darjah Gemilang Pangkuan Negeri (DGPN), which carries the prestigious title “Datuk Seri.”
The Penang native received the award from Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib in a grand investiture ceremony held at Dewan Sri Pinang in conjunction with the state ruler’s 84th birthday celebration.
Clearly moved by the recognition, Lee expressed his gratitude and said the honour serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility that comes with it.
“I received the ‘Datukship’ title in 2008, and now the ‘Datuk Seri’ title this year.
“My heartfelt thanks to the state government for this recognition, as well as to the Penang Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib.
“This recognition is not just an honour but a call to continue giving back to the community in ways that are meaningful and beneficial for all,” Lee said when met with reporters earlier at Dewan Sri Pinang.
Lee, who held the world No.1 ranking for a total of 349 weeks, an astonishing 199 of them consecutively from August 2008 to June 2012, remains one of the most revered athletes Malaysia has ever produced.
A three-time Olympic silver medalist, Lee retired from professional badminton in 2019 following medical advice to avoid high-intensity training after his recovery from cancer.
Now, with renewed purpose, he hopes to contribute to the sport that shaped his life.
“Badminton gave me everything. It is time for me to give back, especially to the young talents and to my beloved Penang,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Penang Badminton Association (PBA), under which Lee began his career, extended its heartfelt congratulations to the Bukit Mertajam-born athlete, describing the honour as a testament to his decades of excellence and dedication to badminton.
PBA president Datuk Kah Kau Kiak said the association is proud to see one of its own receiving such a distinguished accolade.
“Even after rising to international fame, Lee has always acknowledged PBA’s role in shaping his early career,” Kah said.
“His sense of gratitude and continued support for grassroots development in Penang are deeply inspiring and set a powerful example for future generations.”
Lee, who is also the official ambassador for PBA’s 100th anniversary celebration, will play a central role in the upcoming centennial event on Nov 22 at the Setia SPICE Arena.
According to Kah, the association invited Lee to take on the ambassadorial role during planning stages last year, and the three-time Olympic silver medalist accepted the appointment.
As part of the celebration, Lee will contribute a personal exhibition featuring his Olympic medals, trophies, and rackets — many of which will be displayed to the public for the first time.
“This rare collection will offer fans a glimpse into his journey and legacy, and will be among the most anticipated highlights of the event,” Kah added.
Lee was among 1,530 individuals recognised for their contributions to the state in this year’s honours list, yet his story continues to shine as a beacon of resilience, gratitude, and dedication to community.
From his towering achievements on the court to his ongoing legacy off it, Lee proves that greatness lies not only in winning but in giving back.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En