Badminton legend Sylvia finally receives incentives for 1975 and 1978 national honours

 

BAM president Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz (right) with handing over the incentive to former national shuttler Sylvia Ng (centre) at her home in Kuala Lumpur today (Dec 22). With them is BAM vice-president Datuk Ng Chin Chai - Tengku Zafrul Instagram pic.

KUALA LUMPUR: The BA of Malaysia (BAM) has presented former great Sylvia Ng with RM10,000 in unpaid incentives for her twice being named National Sportswoman of the Year.

Sylvia, the first Malaysian women's singles player to win a Commonwealth Games gold in 1978, received the national award in 1975 and 1978.

The 76-year-old revealed a few months ago, alongside several other recipients, that the incentives had never been paid.

BAM president Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and vice-president Datuk Ng Chin Chai visited Sylvia at her home in Kuala Lumpur today (Dec 22) to personally hand over the contribution.

Tengku Zafrul said on Instagram that Malaysian badminton would not have progressed to its current state without the sacrifices of legends like Sylvia.

"This visit was made in the context of recent media reports concerning the issue of National Sportsman and Sportswoman awards incentives that were not received by several athletes from various sports, including those for 1975 and 1978," said Tengku Zafrul.

"Although this matter falls outside BAM's jurisdiction, as a mark of recognition for Sylvia's service and legacy to the nation, BAM presented her with a special contribution as a gesture of respect and appreciation."

Tengku Zafrul added that he and Chin Chai were honoured to spend time with the legend, who also won the mixed doubles gold with the late Datuk Ng Boon Bee at the 1970 Asian Games.

A young Sylvia Ng standing next to her collection of medals won in badminton on March 6 1979. - NSTP FILE PIC

"Many in the younger generation today may not be familiar with her, but Sylvia was among the pioneers of Malaysian women's badminton success during the 1960s and 1970s," he said.

"We hope the legacy of Sylvia will continue to inspire younger generations to appreciate history, honour pioneers, and carry on the mission of bringing glory to Malaysia.

"A legacy is not measured by medals alone, but by the path paved for those who follow."

Sylvia's 1970 success with Boon Bee remains Malaysia's last Asian Games gold in mixed doubles.

Current world champions Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei will be aiming to emulate that feat at the 2026 edition in Aichi-Nagoya. - NST