Penang’s rising shuttler Kong Wei Xiang delivered a timely statement ahead of the Asia Team Championships by clinching his maiden boys’ singles title at the National Under-21 Championships.
The 17-year-old, the youngest member of Malaysia’s squad for the Asia Team meet in Qingdao from Feb 3–8, defeated BAM teammate Mohd Haziq Najib 15-13, 16-14 in the final at the Perak Badminton Association Hall in Ipoh. The victory added to the Under-18 national crown he won last year and further justified his selection for the continental team event.
Hailing from Bukit Mertajam, Wei Xiang credited his success to the guidance of BAM coaches and the competitive training environment with his teammates. He described the title as a reward for years of hard work and a shared achievement for everyone involved in his development.
Determined to build on the breakthrough, Wei Xiang said the win has boosted his confidence and strengthened his resolve to contribute to the rebuilding of Malaysia’s men’s singles. He now looks forward to making his debut at the Asia Team Championships, which also serve as qualifiers for the Thomas Cup Finals in Denmark later this year.
Wei Xiang will line up alongside Justin Hoh, Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin and Eogene Ewe in the men’s singles. In the women’s singles final, Oo Shan Zi claimed her first national title after defeating defending champion Lim Zhi Shin.
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