-NSTP/FATHIL ASRI
KUALA LUMPUR: The late Datuk Punch Gunalan, a gifted player, revered coach and manager, and respected administrator, will forever remain a legendary figure in the world of badminton.
Unfortunately, many players today may not fully grasp the immense contributions he made to the sport.
Speaking to the press on Sunday after a moving tribute in honour of her late husband, Datin Vijeya Gunalan said many players today will need help before they can come close to living Punch's legacy.
"True, many of them don't know about him, but I also believe that many need a lot of help from those who can help them develop as players," said Vijeya.
"There are numerous players in the sport, but are they all receiving the necessary exposure and guidance to improve their game? Somebody needs to do it, that's what I feel," said Vijeya, who was moved to tears when a touching video showcasing Punch's remarkable achievements and contributions was shown at the Titiwangsa Stadium, just ahead of the Super 100 KL Masters finals.
Also present at the tribute were KL Badminton Association (KLBA) president Datuk Seri Jahaberdeen Yunoos, Punch's son Roshan and grandson Neeraj Madhav.
Jahaberdeen, who also serves as BAM deputy president, said Punch was not only a legendary player but also the former president of KLBA.
"As a former player and president of KLBA, it's only fitting that we pay tribute to this true legend. If not KLBA, then who else should do it?
"We want to show our appreciation for his numerous contributions, not just as a player, but as a coach and administrator," added Jahaberdeen.
Among Punch's numerous accolades, he will forever be remembered as the coach and team manager for the Malaysian men's team that won the prestigious Thomas Cup in 1992.
In addition to his role as the former secretary of BAM, Punch was the brains behind relocating the Badminton World Federation headquarters from England to Kuala Lumpur.
As a player, Punch achieved remarkable success, including gold medals in both men's singles and doubles at the 1970 Bangkok Asian Games, two gold medals at the Commonwealth Games, one Asian Championships title in 1969, five gold medals at the Sea Games, and a silver medal at the 1970 Thomas Cup in Kuala Lumpur.