Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak on Tuesday congratulated the Malaysian contingent for the country's best ever achievement in the Rio de Janeiro Olympics in Brazil.

In his latest posting on NajibRazak.com, the prime minister said Malaysia's four silvers and one bronze medal feat and the determination shown by the athletes must be emulated by the people in their daily endeavours.

"The Rio Olympics registered Malaysia's best ever performance and achievement in the most prestigious games in the world.

"The five medals won by Datuk Lee Chong Wei, Goh V Shem, Tan Wee Kiong, Chan Peng Soon, Goh Liu Ying, Pandelela Rinong, Cheong Jun Hoong and Azizulhasni Awang reflects their true grit and determination to achieve success at the highest level.

"The journey was not an easy one. Azizulhasni and Goh Liu Ying recovered from physical injuries not long ago and showed tremendous fighting spirit.

"The partnership of Tan Wee Kiong/Goh V Shem shocked the entire nation as they fought and won against big names in the sport," he said.

The Prime Minister said though Malaysia had sent only a small contingent (32 athletes), the fighting spirit and determination shown by the athletes to hoist the name of the country on the global stage was amazing.

Najib said Malaysian athletes should not feel sad or disappointed with their achievement in Rio because they have not only managed to hoist the name of the country but were able to unite the nation of 30 million people.

"Come back with your heads held high. You are all our heroes and we are proud of you!" he said.

Najib said the time has come for young athletes in the country to double their efforts and focus on expanding their potential.

"The backup athletes must be ready to train hard, be focused and disciplined to achieve success at the highest level. Use the achievements of athletes in the Rio Olympics as an inspiration and motivation to excel," he said.