Zahid Hamidi Praises Aaron Chia–Soh Wooi Yik After Runner-Up Finish at Malaysia Open

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 11: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has commended national men’s doubles pair Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik for their fighting spirit and professionalism following their strong performance at the 2026 Petronas Malaysia Open.

Despite narrowly missing out on the title, Zahid said the duo’s journey to the final reflected unwavering determination, discipline, and growing maturity at the highest level of international badminton.

Reaching the final, he added, was evidence of their resilience and competitive mindset against elite global opponents.

“This is not just about a single result but a reflection of continuous effort and progress at the world stage,” Zahid said in a Facebook post on Sunday night. “Every step taken today forms the foundation for greater achievements tomorrow.”

Encouraging the pair to remain focused, the Deputy Prime Minister urged them to move forward with confidence, learn from the experience, and return stronger in future tournaments.

He also expressed the nation’s pride in their achievements, stressing that Malaysians remain firmly behind the world champions in both victory and defeat.

Aaron and Wooi Yik were edged out in a closely contested final, losing 15-21, 21-12, and 18-21 to defending champions Kim Won Ho and Seo Seung Jae of South Korea at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil.

The Malaysian duo’s performance at the season-opening tournament has been widely praised, with fans and officials alike viewing it as a positive sign ahead of the upcoming international badminton calendar.