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Sunday, November 23, 2008, 12.09 AM

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Shuttler's focus on Japan Open

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Speaking to reporters after meeting DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng at the sidelines of the party national congress here, Chong Wei said he was surprised over the attention he received since returning home early this week.

"Even my coach has commented that I am attending too many functions. I am also worried that after all the attention, I would be criticised if I do not perform at the Japan Open. I just want to focus on my badminton training," he said.

Chong Wei met the Penang chief minister yesterday to thank him for the datukship award proposed by the state government after his triumph at the Beijing Olympic Games.

He said he did not want to be involved in political activities, but the events arranged were beyond his control.

"I am just a sportsman. I hope the people understand this. Although the datukship is an added pressure on me, I would certainly use it to work harder, knowing that there is a lot of expectation of me."

He added that he had proposed to the Penang government to build a world-class badminton venue to further develop the sport in the state.

Chong Wei said he decided to meet the Penang chief minister on the sidelines of the DAP congress because the earlier meeting scheduled for last Monday was cancelled. -- Bernama