KUALA LUMPUR: Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky is still finding it hard to accept the death of his former charge, Gan Teik Chai.
Teik Chai, fondly known as Gan, died of a heart attack on Saturday at the age of 40.
Rexy, who coached the former international during his time as national doubles coach, told Timesport on Sunday that Teik Chai was a gem of a person, both on and off the court.
"I'm still in shock. It's so hard to accept that Gan is no longer around.
"I remember coaching Gan and his former partner, Zakry Latif when I first moved to Malaysia from England. They were a formidable pair who could have gone on to win an All England title.
"I knew of Gan when he was still partnering Koo Kien Keat. He was a gifted player.
"He was 'one of the nicest individuals'. Always there to land a hand to any of his teammates, a live wire in the national setup.
"As a player, he was a joy to coach, and as a person, a truly wonderful friend.
"My heart goes out to his young family. I pray to God that they be given the strength and comfort to endure this very difficult time.
"Rest in peace dear brother, until we meet again," said Rexy.
The wake is held at the Kuala Lumpur Nirvana Centre in Bukit Seputeh.
The cortege leaves for cremation at the Nirvana Crematorium in Shah Alam on Wednesday at 11am.