Datuk Punch Gunalan Passes Away

Badminton legend Datuk Punch Gunalan passed away peacefully at 6am Wednesday. He was 68.

Gunalan had been battling with liver cancer for some time.

He had put Malaysia in the world’s map in the 1970s with his immaculate performances in both the singles and doubles events as a distinguished player – representing the country in the Thomas Cup, All-England and Asian Games.

He had also served with the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) and Badminton World Federation (BWF), earning the respect of the world for his excellent administrative and communication skills and also for his warmth, kindness and passion for the sport.

Born in 1944 in Sepang, Selangor, Gunalan was one of the finest combination doubles and singles players for Malaysia.

He was inducted into the Olympic Council of Malaysia Hall of Fame in 2004.

Source – TheStar >>