Golf in Malaysia
Including Awana Genting Highlands Golf & Country Resort, Forest City Golf Resort, and Kelab Golf Sarawak. On the map.
The vibe
Playing a round on a coastal course here feels like navigating a fairway that kisses the sea, with salty breezes and palm shadows shaping every shot, a setting you rarely get inland. The cooler months from November to February keep the greens firm and the humidity tolerable. The clubs welcome a mix of resort guests and local enthusiasts, so the atmosphere is friendly and comfortably busy.
Awana Genting Highlands Golf & Country Resort, Pahang
Pahang
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Perched 3,000 feet above sea level, this course offers a cool, misty mountain climate that provides a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. The layout features tight fairways and steep elevation changes, making it a challenging test for golfers seeking a unique highland experience.
Access. Located about an hour from Kuala Lumpur, visitors can reach the resort by car or bus. Stay-and-play packages are available at the connected resort hotel.
Notes. The cooler climate is a major draw, but be prepared for frequent afternoon mist and potential rain.
Forest City Golf Resort, Johor
Johor
Slleong / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)
This expansive golf destination features multiple 18-hole courses designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Liang Guo Kun. It is a modern resort destination known for its massive scale and meticulously maintained fairways.
Access. Located in Gelang Patah, Johor, near the Singapore border; accessible by car from Johor Bahru or Singapore.
Notes. Ideal for stay-and-play packages; high-quality practice facilities available.
Kelab Golf Sarawak, Kuching
Sarawak
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This expansive 27-hole championship facility is the premier golf destination in Sarawak, featuring a challenging layout that weaves through mature tropical forests. It is highly regarded for its well-maintained greens and the serene, natural environment that characterizes Borneo golf.
Access. Located in Petra Jaya, a short drive from central Kuching. Visitors can book tee times directly through the club's website or local golf tour operators.
Notes. Dress code is strictly enforced; caddies are available and recommended for navigating the complex layout.
TPC Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur
龍崎 Jeffrey / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
As the premier golf destination in Malaysia's capital, TPC Kuala Lumpur features two championship-caliber courses that have hosted multiple international professional tournaments. The lush, undulating terrain provides a challenging parkland experience in the heart of the city.
Access. Situated in the Bukit Kiara area of Kuala Lumpur, easily accessible by taxi or ride-share from city center hotels.
Notes. Strict dress code; advanced booking recommended for weekends. Best played early morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
The Els Club Teluk Datai, Langkawi
Kedah
alhafis / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Designed by Ernie Els, this stunning course is carved directly into a 10-million-year-old rainforest with dramatic views of the Andaman Sea. It is a bucket-list destination for golfers seeking a rare blend of dense jungle terrain and coastal beauty.
Access. Located on the northern tip of Langkawi island; guests typically stay at the adjacent luxury resorts for seamless access to the course.
Notes. Tropical climate with high humidity; cart-only play is standard. Proper golf attire required.