NATIONAL badminton legend Lee Chong Wei was awarded an honorary doctorate in sports science in conjunction with Universiti Sains Malaysia’s (USM) 58th convocation today.

USM chancellor Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Putra Jamalullail conferred the doctorate on Lee at the Green Room in Istana Arau, Perlis.

USM vice-chancellor Prof Dr Faisal Rafiq Mahamd Adikan said Lee was awarded the honorary degree for bringing glory to the country as a three-time Olympic silver medallist and his stature as a national sports icon.

“Besides him (Lee), four other individuals received their awards today, Dr David Lacey received the honorary degree of doctor of science, as a captain of industry who has contributed significantly towards the country’s economic development through his expertise in science.

“Former USM academic Prof Emeritus Dr Zhari Ismail received the title of professor emeritus, while the former first female USM vice-chancellor, Dr Asma Ismail, received the title of professor emerita,” he told reporters after the ceremony today.

Meanwhile, the former national shuttler said he was deeply honoured by the recognition and would always be open to working with USM in advancing the field of sports science.

“This is the first time I have received an award like this and I will see how I can use my experience in the sport to help the university (USM) in the future,” he said.

Lee also advised all national shuttlers to prepare themselves not only physically but also to improve their mental endurance as the current challenges they would face are more intense. – Bernama, December 2, 2021.