10 Best Golf Courses in Malaysia for 2024/25, golfers should try!
In 2024/2025, Malaysia continues to establish itself as a premier golfing destination in Southeast Asia. Known for its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the country offers an array of golf courses that cater to every golfer’s fantasy. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best golf courses in Malaysia, each promising an unforgettable experience for the coming years. These Malaysia golf courses are not just about the game; they are a journey through Malaysia’s stunning natural backdrops, from the lush highlands to the sun-kissed coastal regions.
Must-Play Golf Courses in Malaysia
1. TPC Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club
TPC Kuala Lumpur Golf Course & Country Club
TPC Kuala Lumpur Golf Club stands as one of the most prestigious golf courses in Malaysia. Situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, this club is a beacon of golfing excellence, blending luxury, exclusivity, and challenging play. The club boasts two courses: the East Course and the more renowned West Course, which has hosted numerous high-profile tournaments, including the Malaysian Open and the CIMB Classic.
The West Course, redesigned by Ted Parslow, is known for its meticulous landscaping, strategic bunkering, and challenging water hazards. Its fairways are lined with lush, mature trees, and the greens are impeccably maintained, offering true rolls and a variety of pin positions. The course is a true test of golf, demanding precision and strategic thinking. Meanwhile, the East Course offers a different yet equally enjoyable challenge, with its distinct character. It is known for its scenic beauty and playability, making it popular among members and guests alike.
2. Saujana Golf Country Club – Palm Course
Saujana Golf Country Club – Palm Course
Saujana Golf & Country Club’s Palm Course, often referred to as “The Cobra” is famous for its challenging layout and has solidified its reputation as one of the toughest golf courses in Malaysia. Designed by Ronald Fream, the Palm Course is a true golfer’s challenge, known for its tight, palm-lined fairways and undulating terrain. The course demands both accuracy and strategy, with numerous doglegs, sand traps, and water hazards strategically placed to challenge even the most skilled players. The 2nd hole, a long par-3, is particularly notable for its difficulty and beauty. The greens are fast and well-maintained, adding to the overall challenge.
Playing at the Palm Course is not just a round of golf; it’s an experience that tests your skills and mental toughness. The course’s beauty and the natural surroundings provide a serene backdrop, making it a favorite among golfers seeking a challenging and scenic golf experience in Malaysia.
3. Kota Permai Golf & Country Club
Kota Permai Golf Country Club
Kota Permai Golf Country Club is a beautiful and tranquil escape. Offering arguably the best golfing experience in Malaysia, it has achieved success in its professionalism with exquisite landscaping and breathtaking views of the surrounding lush jungles. You will be overwhelmed by the fast greens, challenging international 18-hole course, numerous sporting facilities, food and beverage facilities, and backed by the most friendly staff you’ll ever meet.
This course has played host to numerous tournaments, including the Maybank Malaysian Open which is sanctioned by both the European and Asian Tours, the World Cup Qualifying round, the Volvo Masters, and most recently, the Selangor Worldwide Masters which is another Asian Tour event.
Aside from its well-groomed greens, Kota Permai Golf Country Club offers a 60-bay, two-tier, all-weather driving range that allows golfers to practice their swing or share tips with friends. A practice area that has green for putting, a chip-wood area, and a bunker are available to complete your practice.
4. Els Club Teluk Datai
The Els Club Teluk Datai
The Els Club Teluk Datai in Langkawi, Malaysia is a masterpiece that embodies the essence of golf in Malaysia. This course, designed by the legendary Ernie Els, is not just a golfing venue; it’s a journey through some of Malaysia’s most breathtaking scenery. As you play the 18-hole, 6,750-yard championship course, you are surrounded by the awe-inspiring views of marbled mountain peaks, unspoiled rainforests, and the shimmering waters of the Andaman Sea.
Playing at Els Club Teluk Datai is an experience that resonates with golfers long after they’ve left the course. The layout seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape, providing a serene yet challenging game. The course’s location in Datai Bay adds to its allure, making it a must-play destination for any golfer seeking to play at Malaysia golf courses.
Access to this golfing paradise is part of the adventure – a scenic road trip from Kuala Lumpur, a short flight to Langkawi followed by a picturesque drive, or a ferry ride that offers stunning views of the Malaysian coastline. Each route to Els Club Teluk Datai offers a unique glimpse into the beauty of Malaysia, setting the stage for an unforgettable golfing experience.
5. Royal Selangor Golf Club
Royal Selangor Golf Club
The Royal Selangor Golf Club – Old Course is the founding ground of golf in Malaysia and a premier Malaysia golf club. Superbly a sanctuary amid the city center, the beautifully landscaped parkland courses command a panoramic view of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline and are always a joy to play with.
Home to the inaugural Malaysian Open, the historic Old Course, at 6,742 yards and playing to par 72, provides a memorable journey from the first tee to the 18th green. The Malaysian Open continued to be held at The Royal Selangor Golf Club Old Course between 1962 and 1986, and then again in 2002.
The RSGC Old Course is strictly walking only. The clubhouse facilities include a restaurant, locker rooms, swimming pool, gymnasium, billiard room, and squash courts. Royal Selangor Golf Club Old Course is clearly amongst the elite of golfing in Kuala Lumpur, as well as being the oldest but must-play golf course in Malaysia.
6. The Mines Resort Golf Club
The Mines Resort Golf Club
The Mines Resort Golf Club was officially opened in 1994 by former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Bin Mohamed and quickly became a symbol of golfing excellence in Malaysia. The course, affectionately divided into the Crane Nine and Eagle Nine, presents a delightful blend of challenge and accessibility.
Stretching 6,966 yards from the championship tees, this parkland-style course is a testament to thoughtful design. With golfer-friendly features such as wide, tree-lined fairways and well-contoured greens, it offers a pleasant experience for golfers of all skill levels. The layout not only tests one’s golfing prowess but also provides a scenic journey through a serene, natural landscape.
Playing at The Mines Resort Golf Club is more than a golf round; it’s a walk through a part of Malaysia’s golfing heritage. The course’s blend of historical significance, stunning design, and welcoming playability make it a standout destination for golfers visiting Malaysia.
7. Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club
Horizon Hill Golf Course
Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club, within such a short time since its opening in 2008, has become a household name in the golf industry in this region. The course is a breathtaking, challenging piece of art within a 1,200-acre freehold township development in the heart of Nusajaya which itself is a key flagship zone within the Iskandar Development Region.
Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club is not only a golf resort but also an important center for leisure and entertainment and offers a golf course that is no child’s play. Within such a short time, Horizon Hills was awarded to host the prestigious Iskandar Johor Open tournament which is fast growing into one of the popular stops on the Asian Tour.
The clubhouse is a US$17 million architectural dream, designed by Argentinean Ernesto Bedmar. Five-star amenities, great facilities, and a variety of F&B are available to you: from the spectacular Olympic-sized pool to the fully equipped gymnasium, outdoor tennis court, pro shop, etc. This is a dream place to spend your holiday and one of the must-play golf courses in Malaysia.
8. Tiara Melaka Golf & Country Club
Tiara Melaka Golf & Country Club
Tiara Melaka Golf & Country Club is one of the most captivating 27-hole golf courses in Malaysia, divided into three distinct nines: the Lake, the Meadow, and the Woodlands courses. Each brings its charm and challenges, creating a diverse and enjoyable golfing journey.
The Woodlands course is particularly notable for its stunning rainforest setting. As you navigate this nine, the dense jungle that lines the fairways and the occasional curious monkey add to the immersive experience. This course is characterized by its undulating terrain and picturesque holes, making it a favorite among golfers who appreciate natural beauty and a tranquil environment.
The Meadow course provides a contrasting experience with a layout that, while well-designed, offers a different kind of challenge. The final three holes are particularly memorable, featuring water hazards, tall trees, and a lake that closely follows the 18th fairway, demanding strategic play and precision.
9. Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort
Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort
The list of best golf courses in Malaysia cannot miss out on the Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort. This 27-hole course is impressively designed with a lot of surrounding natural elements. It has a beautiful backdrop of several large, lily-fringed lakes and these are the key ingredients that make Clearwater Sanctuary rank as one of Asia’s best golf courses.
In addition to the main 18 holes, the Wetlands Nine, a unique Par-3 course, is the ideal challenge for those seeking a short but satisfactory game. The course has an interesting selection of 135 to 210-meter holes that start and finish by the water on either side of the course.
Besides challenging golf, Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort also offers other facilities including a driving range, tropical, fishing, pro shop, restaurant, and activities that range from nature walks to bird watching. A basic cluster of 30 chalets is available for golf groups wishing to stay on-site at the resort.
10. Els Club Desaru Coast – Valley Course
The Els Club Desaru Coast – Valley Course
The Els Club Desaru Coast – Valley Course in Malaysia, co-designed by golf legends Vijay Singh and Ernie Els, is an exceptional 18-hole golf course that offers a thrilling challenge for players of all skill levels. Nestled in the scenic Desaru area, this course is distinguished by its captivating layout, which gracefully meanders across streams and valleys, providing a diverse and engaging golfing experience.
The Valley Course, a creation of three-time major champion Vijay Singh, stands apart from its counterpart, the Ocean Course, with its unique challenges and design. It features smaller greens and pronounced undulations, demanding precise approach play from golfers. Singh’s expert use of the natural slopes crafts a course that is as visually dramatic as it is to play on. The layout combines challenging shots with stunning vistas, creating an unforgettable golfing journey.
Above, we have introduced to you the top 10 best out of nearly 200 golf courses in Malaysia for your 2024 golf tours. Don’t know how to plan your Malaysia golf tours effectively, don’t hesitate to contact us for a private consultation. Also, share with us your experience if you have played in these courses. Thank you so much for your reading!
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