The Teluk Datai golf course is nestled between the tropical forest of Langkawi and the sea. – Naturally Langkawi
THERE are many ways you can enjoy your holiday, but did you know that you can travel to indulge in a sport you love?
Golf tourism sees holidaymakers making trips both domestically and globally just for the sport. For leisure, business or even tournaments, golf tourists plan their itinerary around their next putt and in search of the most pristine courses.
With over 150 golf courses, golf tourists are spoiled for choice with the different types of amazing golf experiences Malaysia has to offer. You could climb up in the highlands, go down by the beaches, be surrounded by tropical rainforests or even enjoy the sport in the bustling city.
Here are some hole-in-one golf tourism sites Malaysia has to offer:
The ELS Club, Langkawi
Els Club Teluk Datai in Langkawi has gained a reputation for offering one of the most scenic and breathtaking golfing venues.
Set amongst some of the most unspoilt rainforest and natural beaches, the Rainforest course boasts flawlessly manicured playing surfaces and is in true tribute to the design that carries its creator’s name.
Dubbed the Ernie Els championship design – a masterpiece by the four-time major champion – it has a stunning backdrop of a million-year-old rainforest, with the surrounding appeal of the crystal-clear blue waters of the Andaman Sea.
Be enthralled by the 100ft high trees, the tranquillity of the coastline, as well as being surrounded by the golf course, while soaking in the sounds of wildlife and nature.
With no bunkers on the course, golfers are able to challenge their prowess based on strategically placed tree-lines and the existing sublime nature of the rainforest, which is touted to provide enough natural hazards to make each putt and swing more exhilarating.
What’s more, the Rainforest course comes with two luxury resorts for you to choose from. The Datai and The Andaman provide patrons with a relaxing weekend getaway or a place to disconnect completely, with your family and your favourite sport.
Palm Garden Golf Club is open to the public seven days a week and welcomes corporate golfing events, too. – File pic
Palm Garden Golf Club, Putrajaya
This golf course is open to the public every day of the week and also hosts corporate golf events and functions, which has led it to be named the "Best Corporate Tournament Events Venue" by the ParGolf People's Choice Awards.
It is also touted to be the first course in the country to feature ‘Big Hole Golf’ – which promotes faster rounds with lesser putts – that is available for play every first Wednesday of each month.
Located at IOI Resort City, Putrajaya, Palm Garden Golf Club is set to be one of Malaysia’s premier public golf courses, as this 18-hole course was designed by renowned Australian course architect Ted Parslow.
For those interested in taking on its 18-hole course, Palm Garden offers a stellar golfing experience with its undulating fairways, high-lipped bunkers, and a challenging course – all this and more at just 20 minutes from Kuala Lumpur city.
Golfers can treat themselves to the Mediterranean-style clubhouse at R5ve Café after their rounds for great food overlooking one of the best views in Putrajaya.
Moreover, there is a two-storey driving range, which houses a golfing academy, practice bunkers, and putting green for those who would like to practise their game.
Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club gives golf enthusiasts a run for their money with a challenging golf course. – File pic
Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club, Johor Bahru
Touted as a piece of art within a 1197.52ha (1,200-acre) freehold township development in the heart of Nusajaya, Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club offers a challenging course in Johor Bahru.
Besides that, it is also a stellar recreation and community centre for Horizon Hills residents, which is wholly owned and operated by Horizon Hills Resort, a subsidiary of a joint venture between Gamuda Land and UEM Sunrise.
Golf enthusiasts are able to enjoy the 18-hole international championship course, designed by renowned Australian course architect Ross Watson, which is kept in mint condition all year round.
Established in 2008, Horizon Hills has already clinched the honour to host the prestigious Iskandar Johor Open tournament, which is fast growing into one of the most popular stops on the Asian Tour.
Not your ordinary resort, the clubhouse itself was designed by Argentinean Ernesto Bedmar. It also offers a slew of five-star amenities and facilities including an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a fully-equipped gymnasium, tennis courts, a pro shop, a grand ballroom and a variety of food and beverage outlets.
For more information, visit www.tourism.gov.my/niche/golfing
