Chong Wei: Tun Dr Siti Hasmah treated us as her own kids

The passing of Tun Dr Siti Hasmah today at the age of 100 has left a huge void in the hearts of Malaysians, none more so than Lee Chong Wei.

The centurian was the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) for more than two decades, and played a significant role behind Malaysia's 1992 Thomas Cup success.

A true lover of the game, Lee revealed the former patron wanted to attend the Malaysia Open earlier this year.

"Tun treated us all of us (players) like her own kids. When there was a misunderstanding in the team, Tun resolved it using kindness and intelligence. Her love is what united us to become the strongest force for Malaysian badminton.

"When I last spoke to her during the Malaysia Open this year, she wanted to come to the stadium to support our players. Tun's passion and love for badminton has never faded," said Lee, who shared the wife of former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad even played the game until the grand age of 75.

A well respected figure in the country and Malaysian badminton, the tributes has continued to pour in since her passing early Monday morning. 

Former national players Cheah Soon Kit and Razif Sidek were among those who were full of praise for Tun, echoing Lee's sentiment as her being the 'mother of Malaysian badminton.'