Discover The Malaysia That Suits Your Game, Part Two

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway and also a golf fan, Malaysia is an ideal destination. Situated close to the Equator, the country’s golf experiences can be enjoyed year-round, from the highlands and the jungle, to the beaches and the city. The courses are also easily accessible, allowing for an exploration of the fascinating country. The country can be experienced through its golf courses in the Highlands, by sun-drenched beaches, surrounded by tropical rain forests in an eco-friendly environment, or simply “down town” close to all the action. The après-golf scene is just as memorable, combining sophisticated living, romance, and exquisite food fused with cultural diversity that lies at the heart of this multi-cultural country. 

Malaysia’s Highland Golf Experience 

Malaysia’s lineup of top-drawer golf courses include many which have created by notable designers, and enjoy locations ranging from the tropical resort islands of Penang and Langkawi to the suburbs of capital Kuala Lumpur and other cities; from the mountains of the Genting Highlands to the rainforests of Sabah and Sarawak. Just 45 minutes from Kuala Lumpur, Awana Genting Highlands Golf & Country Resort is one. A tranquil escape 3,000 feet high on Malaysia’s longest mountain range, besides its 18-hole golf course, you can take a ride on Asia’s longest cable car system or explore the surrounding, ancient rainforest. 

Malaysia’s Tropical Island Golf Experience 

Ernie Els came to Malaysia for the first time with the opening of the Els Club in Datai, Langkawi in late 2013, and drew attention to the island as a wonderful tropical island golfing experience. On Penang, Bukit Jawi Golf Resort features two 18-hole layouts – the Lake and Hill courses – as well as a 48-bay driving range and practice putting green, leisure facilities including swimming pool, tennis and badminton courts, and an on-site 66-room hotel. 

Golfing in Borneo is also just as exotic as it sounds. Nestled within Karambunai Resorts on Sabah is Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai’s 18-hole course, set alongside the South China Sea; the course is player-friendly, with wide landing areas and contoured fairways while water provides the element of risk and reward. In contrast, Sabah Golf & Country Club is the oldest in the East Malaysian state. Originally opened in 1976 with a design by Robert Muir Graves, it was remodelled in 2004 by Nelson and Haworth, and is reputed to be one of the toughest golf courses in South East Asia. The course is set amidst a residential development, featuring hilly terrain and undulating fairways with hazards including lakes and hidden bunkers. 

Also in Sabah is the 27-hole Sutera Harbour Marina, Golf & Country Club. Its three nine-hole courses were designed by Graham Marsh and built on undulating, reclaimed land; they vary in difficulty, and are open for play by members or guests of the Pacific Sutera Hotel and Magellan Sutera Resort. Night golf is also available on 20 holes, while other facilities include a 104-berth, deep-water marina, 14 restaurants and bars, and a secluded island getaway. The resort also operates the heritage North Borneo Railway steam train into the heart of Borneo. 

Malaysia’s Jungle Golf Experience 

Ayer Keroh Country Club (AKCC), in Malacca, is one of Malaysia’s oldest country clubs. The 27-hole golf course is cut out of virgin jungle yet is close to the North-South Highway with hotels nearby. Golfers share the course with wildlife including birds, monkeys, squirrels and monitor lizards that live in the jungle lining the fairways. Wayward shots are punished not only by the jungle but also by Ayer Keroh Lake, which comes into play on several holes. 

Encompassing over 1,000 acres and sculptured from former tin-mining land, the 27-hole Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort is acclaimed as one of the region’s most beautiful golf courses. With its pristine fairways and luscious greens lined with majestic raintrees, meandering round vast lakes, this golfing retreat is also sanctuary to a rich variety of wildlife. It is among the few golf resorts in South East Asia to join the Audubon International Programme, which promotes ecologically-sound land management, conservation of natural surroundings and the protection and enhancement of flora, fauna and water resources. The championship course comprises the Raintree Nine and Lakes Nine. The Wetlands Nine is a boutique par 3 course. 

To read part one of this story click here, and for part three click here. 

And if you fancy your chance to win a luxury golf holiday to Malaysia for two, click here!