Just last week, it was revealed that former national doubles player James Gan Teik Chai (颜德财) had passed away. Many, including Dato Lee Chong Wei (李宗偉), his good friend and fellow badminton player, were left mourning his loss.
Dato Lee Chong Wei and his family were seen attending Gan Teik Chai’s wake yesterday (8th August) at the Nirvana Centre KL. The former badminton star had been overcome with grief while paying his last respects and as he later shared a glimpse of the relationship he had with Teik Chai, we can understand why.
As most may know, Gan Teik Chai’s wake was held earlier this week to allow those who knew him to pay their last respects. Chong Wei, his wife Wong Mew Choo and Koo Kien Keat were seen at the wake, standing respectfully before Teik Chai’s casket. Although both Mew Choo and Kien Keat kept their composure, Chong Wei was seen wiping away tears as he said his last goodbyes to his friend.
Chong Wei later shared why Teik Chai’s passing had left him so shaken. The duo had known each other since they were 12, when they both participated in a badminton tournament, reportedly hosted by Milo. At the time, Teik Chai had represented Kedah while Chong Wei was representing Penang. However, their rivalry evolved into friendship over the years.
Chong Wei wasn’t the only one who had formed a firm friendship with Teik Chai. His wife, Mew Choo too had been close with Teik Chai as they had teamed up to play mixed doubles together. It was no surprise to learn that, after everything, both Chong Wei and Mew Choo had regarded Teik Chai as their family.
“Previously, whenever Teik Chai returned from abroad, he would bring chocolate to my house for my children to eat,” Chong Wei reportedly told the media. “I recently saw his figure had changed after retirement, so I invited him to join (us) in our weekly sports gatherings, but unfortunately, I was either busy or he didn’t have time. So, it fell through.”
Chong Wei added Teik Chai had agreed to join them last week, unfortunately, they couldn’t make it happen as something else came up. “Who knew I would receive (such) bad news then. I was angry at the time, and scolded, (saying) don’t make such jokes, but everything was true, I just couldn’t accept it,” he said.
Chong Wei also confirmed he had not known Teik Chai was ill. He had merely thought his friend had gained weight and so, asked Teik Chai to exercise with him. The badminton legend has offered to assist Teik Chai’s family in whatever way he can.
Media took the opportunity to ask Chong Wei about BAM’s current situation. He stated he hopes the issue will not affect preparations for Paris 2024 Olympics as the county is aiming for gold in badminton. When asked if he would be taking over as BAM’s president, he merely smiled and shook the reporter’s hand vigorously.
Our hearts and prayers go out to those who knew Gan Teik Chai. We sincerely hope they will be able to find peace in his passing. Teik Chai will be cremated later today (9th August) at 11am after his funeral. We pray he finds peace in the afterlife.
