Chong Wei needs to maintain performance - Khairy

National top shuttler Datuk Lee Chong Wei needs to maintain his best performance in order to qualify for the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil next year, said Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

Commenting on the Chong Wei's success in defeating arch-rival China's Lin Dan in the semifinals in the China Open Super Series Premier on Saturday, Khairy said the men's single shuttler still has what it takes to compete.

"It is hoped that his challenge will not stop there, he will face Cheng Long after that. However, it shows that he still has the ability to beat Lin Dan.

"I just hope he can maintain the high level of play and improve his performance before the Olympic Games, which will be a major challenge for Chong Wei," he told a press conference after launching the official logo, mascot and theme of the 29th SEA Games at the Suria Esplanade, KLCC, here on Saturday.

The former world number one broke his losing jinx against Lin Dan with a 17-21, 21-19, 21-19 victory in 92 minutes to march into the China Open Super Series Premier final in Fuzhou.

Chong Wei, 33, who is gunning for his fourth title of the season, will face another tough task against the world number one player Chen Long in the final on Sunday.