JOHOR BARU: Omar Abdul Manap, a member of Malaysia’s victorious Thomas Cup team in 1967, passed away at 10.20pm yesterday. He was 85.
Omar, who had been battling lung infection for the past two years, died at his house at Flat Sri Stulang. He was laid to rest at Tanah Perkuburan Islam Kebun Teh at 10am this morning.
Omar featured as a reserve player in the national badminton squad that won the Thomas Cup in 1967. Among his teammates were Tan Aik Huang, Yew Cheng Hoe, Teh Kew San, Ng Boon Bee, Tan Yee Khan and Datuk Billy Ng.
Omar’s son, Abdul Rahim Omar, 59, said he was a strict yet caring person who was liked by both friends and fans.
"Winning (the 1967 Thomas Cup) without taking to the court (due to unruly crowd) at the Istora Senayan is something none of us will forget," said Rahim.
Omar's struggles in recent years had gained the attention of the Johor government, who recognised his contributions to the country.
Translated from Berita Harian