Malaysia enjoyed an encouraging day at the Princess Sirivannavari Thailand Masters 2026 as several national representatives marched into the Round of 16, highlighted by strong performances in men’s doubles, women’s singles, and mixed doubles.
The HSBC BWF World Tour Super 300 event saw Malaysia’s seeded stars hold firm, while a number of hard-fought three-game battles underlined the squad’s growing depth on the international stage.
Sixth seeds Kang Khai Xing / Aaron Tai were pushed to the limit by compatriots Faiq Masawi / Lok Hong Quan in an all-Malaysian men’s doubles clash.
After dropping the opening game 12-21, Kang–Aaron responded with composure and tactical discipline to take the next two games 21-18, 21-15, sealing a comeback victory and a place in the next round.
Malaysia’s men’s singles challenge also gained momentum with two important wins.
Former top national star Lee Zii Jia looked sharp as he brushed aside Belgium’s Julien Carraggi 21-19, 21-11.
Meanwhile, sixth seed Justin Hoh continued his steady rise by defeating Taiwan’s Su Li Yang 21-17, 21-19 in straight games.
However, it was disappointment for Aidil Sholeh, who fell to India’s seventh seed Kiran George 15-21, 9-21.
While Kang–Aaron celebrated, Malaysia suffered a setback as Lau Yi Sheng / Lim Tze Jian were eliminated by China’s Hu Ke Yuan / Lin Xiang Yi, losing 20-22, 18-21 in a tightly contested encounter.
Malaysia’s women’s singles contingent produced two notable victories.
Wong Ling Ching battled past Indonesia’s Komang Ayu Cahya Dewi in a thrilling three-game match, winning 21-16, 27-29, 21-18.
National teammate Goh Jin Wei also showed resilience, overcoming Taiwan’s Huang Ching Ping 21-18, 21-23, 21-11.
Adding to Malaysia’s success, Letshanaa Karupathevan delivered a composed straight-games win over American Ishika Jaiswal 21-10, 21-15.
Seventh seeds Jimmy Wong / Lai Pei Jing survived a tense three-game battle against Korea’s Lee Jong Min / Lee Yu Lim.
After losing the first game 14-21, the Malaysians fought back strongly, edging the second 24-22 before closing out the decider 21-15.
Malaysia’s mixed doubles pairing Liew Xun / Ho Lo Ee were unable to find answers against Indonesia’s Bobby Setiabudi / Melati Daeva Oktavianti, going down 9-21, 11-21.
With multiple representatives through to the Round of 16, Malaysia’s campaign at the Thailand Masters 2026 is gathering pace, led by established names like Lee Zii Jia and supported by rising talents across disciplines.
Credit Photo : IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/THE STAR
