LEE Zii Jia is unperturbed by negative comments from critics, who questioned him for skipping the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.

The world No 5 cited fatigue and injury for deciding not to play in Birmingham next month.

He also wants to use the break after the Malaysia Masters to prepare for the World Championships in August.

When met today at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil ahead of this week’s Malaysia Open, Zii Jia made it clear that he does not want to get drawn into a spat with his critics.

Former international Datuk James Selvaraj had questioned Zii Jia’s ‘national spirit’ last week, while Commonwealth Games deputy chef de mission Gerard Monteiro also expressed his disappointment with the player’s decision.

“I think some of you expect me to fight back over this issue. However, I am sorry to disappoint you,” said Zii Jia when met at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil today.

“I am not going to respond to these comments. I am not going to fight back.

“All I want is to focus on badminton.

“This is why I am here as a professional player. I want to distance myself from these things and just focus on playing.”

Zii Jia added that he is looking forward to competing at the Malaysia Open this week, which is making a comeback after a two-year absence due to Covid-19.

The fifth seed will face Frenchman Toma Junior Popov in the first round.

Meanwhile, independent coach Chin Eei Hui could return to the BA of Malaysia (BAM) soon.

Eei Hui confirmed that BAM coaching director Rexy Mainaky has contacted her regarding a possible role in the mixed doubles department.

Eei Hui, who is contracted to Li Ning, however, said she is still some way from reaching an agreement with the national body.

“I was quite happy when coach Rexy called. However, there is not really much I can comment on for now,” said Ee Hui.

“We talked more about the big picture and did not get into the finer details.

“There is still more to discuss, and I have yet to properly think about returning to BAM.

“Currently, I am on a contract with Li Ning, which is renewed yearly.”

The mixed doubles department is without a head coach following the departure of Paulus Firman last month.