The Malaysian, who lost in the last four of the British Open in May, also went out in the semi-final in Alexandria to Egypt's Omneya Abdel Kawy.
However, David said her enthusiasm was still strong as she goes for a ninth world title at the end of the year.
"It certainly feels special and I can't believe that I have been World No. 1 for nine years - the time has flown by," the 31-year-old said in a statement following her 108th consecutive month at the top.
"I think I might only fully comprehend the magnitude of everything when I step out of the game, but that's not going to be happening anytime soon.
"I think it's going to be an exciting year with everyone pushing the competition on but I'm really looking forward to the challenge."
(Writing by Patrick Johnston in Singapore; Editing by Peter Rutherford)
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