Lee Chong Wei may not be able to head to Tokyo as the country’s chef-de-mission, but the three-time Olympic silver medalist is looking to play an equally important role from Malaysia.

Chong Wei had to pull out from joining the national contingent for the upcoming Olympics due to health reasons but still retained his chef de mission role.

“I am confident of helping the contingent through online interactions with athletes and officials in Tokyo. We know the Olympics will be totally different this year due to the pandemic.

“I will still rally my support and encourage the athletes from here to ensure their success. No pressure for me to do the job, I’m doing this for my love for Malaysia,” he said.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Datuk Wira Lee Chong Wei (@leechongweiofficial)

Minister of Youth and Sports Reezal Merican Naina Merican said Chong Wei would monitor the athletes’ performances online, while the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) secretary-general Nazifuddin Najib would manage the athletes in Tokyo.

Meanwhile, men’s singles ace Lee Zii Jia was confirmed to lead the 30-strong athlete contingent as one of the flagbearers alongside Goh Liu Ying.

Zii Jia replaces national archer Khairul Anuar Mohamad, who asked to be replaced as he would be in action the next day.

The OCM made the decision to combine a veteran and a newcomer as flagbearers.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lee Zii Jia 李梓嘉 (@leeziijia)