KUALA LUMPUR: BAM president Tan Sri Norza Zakaria has called on all Malaysians to fully support Lee Zii Jia and his Thomas Cup teammates.
Norza emphasised his unwavering confidence in Zii Jia leading Malaysia's charge at the Thomas Cup Finals in Chengdu, China, where the country bids to reclaim the prestigious trophy after a 32-year hiatus.
Zii Jia has recently been involved in controversies, including his demand for "image rights" payment and his decision not to participate in the national team's one-week centralised training before the Finals.
"Let's set the polemics aside, come together as one, and rally behind the team, giving them the strength they need for the challenge in Chengdu," said Norza.
"There shouldn't be any more questions about Zii Jia's patriotism in the coming weeks. All the players in the squad are Malaysians, they take pride in representing the country and are eager to prove themselves to the people.
"What has always distinguished our players from their competitors is their fighting spirit. They hold our nation's flag in the highest regard and will fiercely defend its honour."
Meanwhile, Norza refrained from outrightly dismissing a recent report by a local news portal, which suggests that BAM is prepared to offer players a RM1 million bonus if they manage to reclaim the Thomas Cup.
Although he did not disclose the specific amount, Norza stated that the national body is in a position to provide a "significant" monetary incentive if the team manage to secure victory, ending the nation's 32-year wait for Thomas Cup success.
"The reward we're considering will reflect the prestige of the achievement.
"Nevertheless, I believe it's not the incentive they're playing for, but rather for the pride and glory of the nation."
