RIO DE JANEIRO: The Rio de Janeiro Olympics were officially launched on Friday with national shuttler Lee Chong Wei leading the Malaysian contingent out at the iconic Maracana Stadium.
Lee, appearing in his fourth Olympics, was the Malaysian flagbearer as he was followed out by Chef-de-Mission Tan Sri Tan Sri Mohamed Al Amin Abdul Majid and a delegation of athletes and other officials.
It was Chong Wei's first involvement in the opening ceremony as he had skipped previous editions to focus on competition.
Malaysia was the 119th of 207 contingents to march out following a colourful buildup before a packed Maracana Stadium.
Malaysia is targeting a first ever Olympic gold with hopes placed squarely on Chong Wei coming good in the men's singles after having settled for silver in the last two editions.
Malaysian officials are also confident of winning medals from men's badminton pair Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong and mixed doubles Chan Peng Soon-Goh Liu Ying.
The divers, led by London 2012 bronze medallist Pandelela Rinong, have a bright chance of medals while cyclist Azizulhasni Awang is among the favourites in the men's keirin.
A total 28 sports will be contested in the Olympics with some 11,000 athletes competing.
The Games will end on Aug 21 with Tokyo, Japan to host the 2020 edition.