Olympic badminton gold medalist Lee Yong-dae and participants in the OCI-hosted badminton class pose at the Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Campus in Malaysia, Sept. 29. Courtesy of OCI Holdings

OCI Holdings, the Korean polysilicon maker's holding firm, has stepped up efforts to strengthen ties with Malaysia by hosting a badminton class and running event.

The company has been actively conducting environmental, social and governance (ESG) activities in the Southeast Asian country, which serves as the production base of its solar photovoltaic (PV) polysilicon. These efforts aim to support its subsidiary, OCIM, while addressing challenges posed by global economic uncertainties, including the potential impact of the U.S. presidential election, U.S. tariffs on China and a possible slowdown in solar PV demand.

On Sept. 29, it hosted a one-day badminton class at the Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Campus, featuring Olympic gold medalist Lee Yong-dae.

During the event, Lee gave one-on-one lessons to 30 young players selected by the Bintulu Badminton Association, focusing on various match strategies and fundamental techniques. He also engaged in friendlies with members of the badminton club and local residents.

Recognizing the widespread popularity of badminton in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and India, OCI Holdings partnered with the Olympian to leverage his influence and expertise in the sport.

OCI Holdings also co-hosted the Kuching Green Run 2024 in the Malaysian city of Kuching on Sept. 28.

The inaugural eco-friendly cultural event aimed to raise community awareness about sustainable renewable energy and climate protection, with participation from several sponsors, including Malaysia's national petroleum company, PETRONAS, and the China Communications Construction Company.

The opening ceremony was attended by OCI Holdings Chairman Lee Woo-hyun, OCIM President Choi Seong-gil and more than 20 key figures from Sarawak, including Sarawak Economic Development Corporation Chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abdul Aziz Husain and State Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts of Sarawak Datuk Sebastian Ting Yew.

"It is meaningful for us to promote a healthy lifestyle with sports and engage with the local community. In line with our motto, 'Envisioning a healthier future through life science and clean energy,' OCIM, as a prominent company in Sarawak, will actively participate in various ESG initiatives, including cultural events and scholarship programs," Chairman Lee said.