While Thailand and Vietnam currently stand out as Southeast Asia’s premier golf destinations, Malaysia is emerging as a compelling alternative, primarily due to its affordability and diverse range of courses. Kuala Lumpur, the capital, is particularly noteworthy for its abundance of greens, setting it apart from other major Asian cities where golf courses tend to be more distant.
Here are four outstanding golf facilities in Kuala Lumpur:
Saujana Golf & Country Club
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Kuala Lumpur’s western outskirts, Saujana features two challenging 18-hole golf courses – the Palm Course and Bunga Raya Course. Designed by renowned American golf architect Ronald Fream, these courses have hosted the Malaysia Open nine times. The Palm Course, in particular, offers a tropical beauty with meticulously maintained fairways and slick greens. The 300-yard driving range and practice facilities enhance the overall golfing experience. Weekday rates are $120 per person, including a shared buggy, and $150 on weekends.
Sungai Long Golf & Country Club: Designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, Sungai Long is an 18-hole course situated in the serene southern outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. With lush jungled hills framing its layout, the course provides a tranquil and enjoyable round. The course demands a variety of skills, from powerful drives over lakes to delicate touches on layered greens. The clubhouse, overlooking the course, offers pristine amenities, including change rooms, a swimming pool, and the Golfer Terrace restaurant and bar. Affordable green fees start from $55 on weekdays.
Royal Selangor Golf Club: A distinctive downtown course dating back to 1893, the Royal Selangor Golf Club boasts 45 holes surrounded by skyscrapers. The course, with its intricate design and lush greenery, provides a unique inner-city golfing experience. The clubhouse, featuring a pro shop, change rooms, barber, sauna, and massage facilities, is a spacious retreat after a round. Visitors can play by invitation or through reciprocal arrangements with affiliated clubs.
Impact Golf: Located about 15 minutes east of downtown Kuala Lumpur, Impact Golf serves as a comprehensive facility for golfers to prepare and equip themselves. With a two-storey driving range, modern coaching spaces, and an impressive club fitting studio, it offers a holistic approach to improving one’s game. Chief fitter and golf coach Eric Chong, utilizing high-tech video systems, provides personalized recommendations for club specifications. Golf lessons, starting from $57 per hour, are also available with Impact Golf’s team of experienced teachers, including renowned mentor Steven Giuliano.
Kuala Lumpur’s golf scene is not only about challenging courses but also encompasses top-notch amenities and instructional resources, making it an increasingly attractive destination for golf enthusiasts.
