PETALING JAYA: It was an exciting day for Malaysia as national No. 1 men’s singles shuttler Lee Zii Jia won the Asia Badminton Championships in Manila.

Social media was flooded with congratulatory messages to Zii Jia over his victory against Indonesia’s Jonatan Christie 21-17, 23-21.

They wished the 24-year-old the best in his upcoming matches and conveyed a similar “You make Malaysia proud” message in their comments.

One user, @theone_xyz, posted a tweet saying, “LEE ZII JIA DID IT! CHAMPION!!! He beat Jonatan Christie in an epic match just now. Good fight by Jojo though. We are so so proud! Congratulations Lee Zii Jia!”

Another user, @HelloBWJr26, congratulated the shuttler with, “Ladies and gentlemen, presenting you the Champion of Asia, World No 6 LEE ZII JIA!!! congratulations, truly deserved one of his best ever achievement!!”

@shahrazadsani tweeted: “All hail the reigning defending King of Asian badminton Lee Zii Jia.”

This was Zii Jia’s first title as an independent player.

During a media conference, Zii Jia said Christie was a tough opponent and that his main strategy against the Indonesian shuttler was to focus on the match.

He said this win meant a lot to him.

“This is just a start. Hopefully there is more to come,” he added.

When asked about his future plans, Zii Jia said he will be competing for the Thomas Cup and the Thailand Open.