KUALA LUMPUR: Former World No 1 Lee Chong Wei has urged all Malaysian shuttlers, both national and professional, to band together and form one big family for the greater good of badminton.
According to Chong Wei, the recent impressive showing at the Malaysia Masters should inspire the local shuttlers to strike fear into the rest of the world.
"I am extremely happy with the positive showing of our players in the Malaysia Masters. It's a great start for our team in this new year.
"I hope all players, seniors and juniors alike, independent or national, could come together as one.
"We need to work and fight together to make sure this year is better than before.
"Teamwork and support are important. I want to see the players do more in future tournaments. Use the Malaysia Masters as an inspiration," said Chong Wei.
In the Malaysia Masters, there were eight representatives in the quarter-finals, six in the last-four and one finalist.
Chong Wei, who has been out of action since his battle with nose cancer last year, lit up the final day of the competition when he made a special cameo to present the tournament souvenirs to both the men's singles finalist, South Korea's Son Wan Ho and China's Chen Long.
In the final, Wan Ho edged the reigning Olympic champion 21-17, 21-19 to bag his first title on Malaysian soil.
Chong Wei, 37, who completed treatment in Taiwan late last year, is hoping to make a comeback at the Malaysia Open in April.
The 37-year-old admitted he is itching to get back on court but will do so upon his doctor’s advice.
Chong Wei revealed that Chen Long had asked the Malaysian ace to make a swift return to competitive action.
"Chen Long wants me to come back as soon as I can. I told him I'm doing my best. I am eager but what's more important now is my health. I have to heed my doctor's advice.
"I have started training, so let's hope everything goes well for me," added Chong Wei.