KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has congratulated shuttler Cheah Liek Hou for clinching Malaysia's first gold medal at the Paris Paralympics yesterday (Sep 2).
Anwar said Liek Hou had done the nation proud by retaining the men's singles SU5 (physical impairment) title he won during Tokyo 2020.
"We have secured our first gold at #Paralympic2024," said Anwar on social media today.
"Liek Hou has managed to defend the gold he won at the last Paralympics (Tokyo).
"Congratulations, you have done Malaysia proud on the world stage!"
Squash legend Datuk Nicol David also praised Liek Hou for his win.
"Dear Liek Hou, you dreamt it, you worked for it and you got it. (I am) out of words for the hard work and dedication you put in to win gold for Malaysia," said Nicol on social media.
"You have succeeded in doing it in two-straight Paralympics. You're a Legend. Congratulations on everything you have achieved, enjoy this moment, Malaysia boleh!"
Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh and track cycling great Datuk Azizulhasni Awang also congratulated Liek Hou.
Fans on social media were also elated with Liek Hou's performance.
"A brilliant performance and an amazing gift to our nation during this national month. (Becoming a) two-time Paralympic gold medalist is not an easy feat. Thank you Liek Hou," said Reese Ooi.
"Congratulations for getting the gold medal for our beloved country Malaysia. We all are proud of you. You are standing in the eyes of the world. The world sees you, the world sees Malaysia," said Juining Babia.
Malaysia has so far won one gold and one bronze at the Paris Paralympics, the latter through sprinter Eddy Bernard in the men's 100m T44 (physical impairment) on Sunday (Sep 1).