JOHORMALAYSIA’S Golf Par adise

JOHOR A TREASURE TROVE OF GOLF COURSES

This special edition of publication features Golf Tourism Association, in a bid to twenty seven golf courses in Johor Darul Ta’zim promote Johor Darul Ta’zim as the region’s premier of which many are of international standard golfing destination, is working very closely with all and multi-award winning that have been the golf courses to offer and provide a “complete designed by some of the world’s holiday experience” for golfers and their families. foremost and renowned course Johor Darul Ta’zim is proud to have the highest architects namely Ernie Els, number of golf courses of varying classes in luxury Vijay Singh, Max Wexler, and exclusiveness from the largest courses of 54 Robert Trent Jones II, holes to the small courses of 9 holes for golfers of Jack Nicklaus, Jack all skill levels. Nicklaus II, Arnold Palmer, Rick Robbins, And with the twenty seven golf courses spreading Hiromasa Inagawa, out all over the state Johor Darul Ta’zim has Akira Mamiya, established itself as a premier golf destination Peter Dye, Ross in the recent years. Each golf course offers Watson, Ronald challenging fairways amidst spectacular sights, Fream, Nigel B. world-class facilities and amenities for the comfort Douglas, and and pleasure of golfers and visitors. Each golf many more. course provides avid golfers a unique experience that will linger in their minds for a long time. Each golf Golfers can come and play on former coconut course is and oil palm plantations and wetland, or by the unique in its crashing waves of the sea, or amidst frolicking own class, greens and tranquil surroundings, or amidst the set against a serenity and calmness of freshwater lakes, or even backdrop of in the busy city of . either pristine coastline, or the Johor Darul Ta’zim dubbed as the “Southern serene tranquility Gateway to ” is in close proximity to of nature, lush Singapore, Batam, Bintan, Indonesia, Thailand, greens, calm Cambodia, Vietnam, Korea, and many other lakes, plantations or countries in the nearby region. The easy swamps, their natural accessibility and strategic location of Johor beauty is mesmerising Darul Ta’zim makes the state a popular golfing and captivating. The destination in the region. Clubhouses are nothing short of providing first-class services and Undoubtedly, Johor Darul Ta’zim is a treasure trove facilities for the comfort of all visitors of golf courses and resorts. Thus, it takes pride to and golfers. lay claim to being Malaysia’s Golfer’s Paradise!

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Information Address: No 4, Jalan Danau, Coast, 81930 , Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 878 0000 General Email: [email protected] Reservation Email: [email protected] Website: www.elsclubmalaysia.com

27 HOLES 9 HOLES PAR 3 ACADEMY COURSE THE ELS CLUB DESARU COAST – OCEAN COURSE

The Els Club Desaru Coast – Ocean parallel to the coast and is one of With multiple tee boxes on each hole, the Course is one of the most renowned the most beautiful golf courses in golf course meanders through natural and prestigious courses designed Malaysia. The Els Club Desaru Coast wetlands and lakes as it makes its way by the 4-time major championship - Ocean Course offers 27 holes of through the spectacular natural rolling winner and former World No. 1, “The championship golf that comprises terrain set alongside the South China Big Easy” South African, Ernie Els. three distinctly different 9-hole Sea. Each hole on the Ocean Course It sets to change Malaysia’s golfing courses aptly named the Ocean, bears the Els mark of strategy, beauty, landscape forever to become the Ridge, and Lake, each providing and elegance. The flow of the golf course country’s most revered golf course. a challenge for all skill levels. The is unique in South East Asia. Carts are Ocean Course naturally exudes sheer permitted on the fairways and are fitted Located in , Johor, and elegance and magnificence while with the most recent GPS system. nestled along the pristine Desaru requiring strategic play. It really poses Coast overlooking the open South exciting challenge for both low and The signature hole is the par-5 2nd, which China Sea, the Ocean Course runs high handicappers. sits on The Coast stage of the course.

2 The hole offers spectacular views of the South China Sea from start to finish and golfers are left to navigate through narrowing fairways towards the immaculate, fast green. Golfers will definitely embrace the meticulously cared-for green with pristine fairways and applaud the Clubhouse which is an architectural marvel.

The presence of the mighty Clubhouse fills the skyline with its open plan design, it sits imperiously overlooking the golf course and academy, offering guests plenty of comfortable corners to relax, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the service from the casual dining restaurant, the 261 Bar & Restaurant. This 45,000-square foot contemporary Cubhouse is also equipped with 5-star amenities and facilities such as a fully stocked pro-shop, changing rooms, and private function rooms that are ideal for entertainment and business meetings.

The Els Club Desaru Coast also boasts the first academy of its kind in Asia, The Els Performance Golf Academy (EPGA), accessible from both the Ocean and Valley Courses. The EPGA is a great fun for the whole family offering the latest in golf instruction and coaching such as private golf lessons, group clinics and/or on-course playing lessons from qualified PGA and LPGA instructors. The practice facilities are complete with a 9-Hole Par 3 Academy Course, an exclusive grassed practice tee, a contoured practice fairway, swing studios with video analysis, a putting lab, a dedicated short game practice area, and a large putting-green, providing opportunities to juniors and lady golfers.

The EPGA offers a variety of instructional programmes which are both creative and informative, offering a fun learning experience designed to suit all abilities, player development and introduction to golf programs are complimented by Ladies group coaching, corporate clinics and its unique Little Easy Young Athlete junior series. Its PAR 3 ACADEMY COURSE unique design allows the course to be played in many different directions, which is great for corporate events and team-building programs.

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Information Address: No 2, Jalan Pantai 2, Desaru Coast, 81930 Bandar Penawar, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 878 0000 General Email: [email protected] Reservation Email: [email protected] 18 HOLES Website: www.elsclubmalaysia.com THE ELS CLUB DESARU COAST – VALLEY COURSE

Located in Kota Tinggi, Johor, and short of epic and the condition and casual dining restaurant, and a meeting tucked away in the pristine Desaru quality is a cut above. The course has space. Coast, it is one of the newest golf a distinct character, set by dramatic courses in the region, offering a elevation changes and stunning ocean At Lembah Restaurant, you’ll enjoy a great complete golfing experience. The vistas. It has been crafted around a series dining experience while overlooking Els Club Desaru Coast - Valley Course of undulations, providing impressive the stunning golf course and landscape. is the product of a world’s first-ever views around the Desaru Coast There is a wide selection of food for you collaboration between Ernie Els and his region. The immediate impact of the to choose ranging from Malaysian to close friend and fellow Major Champion undulating landscape and smattering of North Indian and Fijian cuisines. and World Golf Hall of Famer, Vijay uniquely placed white sandy bunkers is Singh. This collaboration has put a seal unforgettable. The Els Club Desaru Coast with 45 holes to the golf development in Desaru of golf (the 27-hole Ocean Course and Coast and raises the prestige and The key features of the 18-hole Valley 18-hole Valley Course) set out alongside appeal of what is already one of the Course are golf carts having the latest the region’s first Els Performance Golf world’s premier golf destinations. state-of-the-art GPS system and are Academy and the Academy par-3 permitted on the fairways, full grassed course, makes it as one of the most The Valley Course, a par-72, which driving range with multiple target greens, comprehensive golf destinations in lies adjacent to The Els Club Desaru short game practice areas for chipping the world. The Els Club Desaru Coast Coast – Ocean Course, is an 18-hole and putting, fully stocked golf shop, full will elevate Desaru Coast into one of Championship layout measuring up amenity locker rooms, Valley Course the region’s most comprehensive and to 7,200 yards. The course is nothing Clubhouse with an open plaza concept, exclusive golf destinations.

4 18 HOLES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

The multi-award winning championship golf course Horizon Hills is a breathtaking and challenging 18-hole course located in the heart of and is easily accessible via the North-South Expressway, Malaysia- Singapore Second Link, Expressway, and JB Parkway ( Expressway). A masterpiece design by renowned Australian course architect Ross Watson, the 18-hole international championship course is highly rated as one of the topmost golf courses in Johor. Its slick and undulating greens, fairways laden with a fine carpet of paspalum grass and a superb layout will test even the most experienced golfer. The breathtaking views and dramatic elevation changes together with tricky water hazards and putting surfaces will bring out the best in any golfer.

It is not just another golf resort as it hosts a five-star amenities and facilities, including an Olympic-sized swimming Horizon Hills has hosted prestigious pool, wading pool for kids, a fully- tournaments namely the Iskandar equipped gymnasium, tennis courts, Johor Open Tournament making it as sports activities, a pro shop, a grand one of the popular stops on the Asian ballroom and a variety of F&B outlets Tour. The golf legends that have played at its signature country clubhouse here include Colin Montgomerie, John designed by Argentinean Ernesto Daly, K.J. Choi, Anthony Kim, Henrik Bedmar. Horizon Hills Golf & Country Stenson, Louis Oosthuizen, the 3-time Club also offers sports & recreational major championship winner Padraig lessons namely swimming, tennis, Harrington, as well as the 4-time major taekwondo, zumba, yoga, yogalates, championship winner and former World aerobic, fitness, and circuit training. No. 1, Ernie Els. There are four F&B outlets to serve Information golfers and members of the public namely the Golfer’s Terrace, Cross- Address: Over Bar, Cathay Chinese Restaurant No 1, Jalan Eka, Horizon Hills, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, (overlooking the 9th hole and the Johor Darul Ta’zim practice area) and the Poolside Café Tel: (+607) 232 3166 (overlooking the Olympic-sized (+607) 235 7057 swimming pool and wading pool Fax: (+607) 232 3919 for kids). The Horizon Ballroom is an General Email: impressive state-of-the-art venue that [email protected] can cater to any entertainment and Website: formal events. www.hhgcc.com.my

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18 HOLES JOHOR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

The Johor Golf & Country Club is the fairways, more bunkers and additional 2009 with notable winners namely K.J. first 18-hole golf course in Johor Darul ponds in placed giving golfers a whole Choi and Retief Goosen. Ta’zim. Located at Jalan Tun Abdul new playing experience. Razak, it is only a 15-minute drive The Clubhouse features facilities from the Johor Bahru city centre. Johor Golf & Country Club has such as a driving range, a putting The 159-acre golf course designed hosted numerous prestigious and green, a pro shop, a gymnasium, a in an old-style parkland layout was international tournaments in the past. swimming pool, a billiard room, a spa built on a water catchment area with It was the home to the Johor Amateur & sauna, tennis & squash courts, men’s undulating terrain that is blessed Open, inaugurated in 1973, for more & women’s changing rooms, and a with virgin tropical jungle. The natural than 25 years before it moved on to reading & TV room. terrain was maintained without much other venues. Another was the Royal earth movement. The original jungle Johor Invitational Amateur Open Being the first 18-hole golf course, the trees were retained and this makes the Championship initiated in 2002 which is Johor Golf & Country Club still remains course very difficult especially when listed in the world golf amateur ranking to be a popular venue for avid golfers. one misses the fairways. that had gathered all the top amateur golfers from the region and afar. The golf course, originally designed Information by Dato’ Ahmad Adam, opened its first It also hosted the Pan West Malaysian Address: nine holes in 1968. The second 9-hole Amateur Open 2003, the Malaysian Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, course was opened in 1974 making National Inter-team Championship 80200, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim Johor Golf & Country Club the first 18- in August 2006, as well as other Tel: (+607) 224 2098 / (+607) 223 3322 hole golf course in Johor Darul Ta’zim. professional tournaments such as the Fax: (+607) 224 0729 Redesigned by the renowned Max Kosaido Malaysian Ladies Open, Royal Email: Wexler in 1991, the golf course is a lot Johor Golf Classic, and the PFP Golf [email protected] more challenging today with Bermuda Classic. It has also hosted international Website: Tifdwarf grass laid on the greens, tournaments like the first three editions www.johorgolfandcountryclub.com new tee boxes, local cow grass on the of the Iskandar Open in 2007, 2008 and

6 18 HOLES ORCHARD GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Information Address: KM 19, Jalan Kota Tinggi, KB 510, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 897 6470 (+607) 897 7934 Fax: (+607) 897 7980 Email: [email protected]

Orchard Golf & Country Club, designed by DL Golf Development, is a buggy course that is part of a 297-acre land which covers the Clubhouse as well. Located about 15 minutes away from Kulai in Johor, Orchard Golf & Country Club is an 18-hole, par-72 international golf course designed as an environmentally- responsible course that blends with its natural surroundings. Thus, allowing golfers to play through a landscape of swaying coconut trees and local fruit trees over a gently rolling terrain and around strategically placed freshwater ponds and sand bunkers.

Orchard Golf & Country Club offers players of all levels of skill an enjoyable day out on the course and soak up the natural environment that is lush and green and air is crisp and clean. To live up to its name “Orchard”, during the fruits season, golfers will be feasted with an array of local fruits to their hearts of strength and distance, but it is about needed for a game. The swimming contents. technique, measure of accuracy and pool is a great place to take a dip after shot-making. Designed to accommodate a long and hot day and the gym is for The course will challenge golfers through and reward golfers of all abilities, length those looking for a good workout. some difficult-to-manoeuvre holes and power off the tee are not the most The sauna and spa facilities provide a and the freshwater ponds which are critical elements to play well. Thus, it is a rejuvenating and refreshing experience strategically placed. The greens are laid great destination for golfers of all levels while the Golfer’s Terrace overlooking with Bermuda Tifdwarf which is among including the novice players to develop the beautiful greens is the place to go the most popular grass used while the their golfing skills and the seasoned to enjoy a meal or two. surrounding scenery and landscape golfers to sharpen and improve their make the game a lot more satisfying and game. The Orchard Golf & Country Club is rewarding. definitely the place to be that will The Clubhouse provides many modern provide some of the best and most Unlike many other golf courses, Orchard amenities and facilities. The pro shop memorable golfing experiences at its Golf & Country Club is not a mere test provides a wide range of supplies beautiful greens and challenging holes.

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Information Address: Jalan Persiaran Golf, Off Jalan Jumbo, 81250 , Johor Darul Ta’zim HOLES Tel: (+607) 599 2000 / (+607) 599 6222 18 Fax: (+607) 599 1370 Reservation Email: [email protected] General Enquiry Email: PALM RESORT GOLF [email protected] Website: & COUNTRY CLUB www.palmresort.com

Palm Resort Golf & Country Club spans doglegs, narrow fairways, 9 holes of water indoor and outdoor sports and leisure across 800 acres of undulating hills and and more than 60 sand bunkers together centre as well as the hotel’s facilities. scenic lakes offering varying degrees with the winding Serangoon fairways The Clubhouse is resplendent in its of challenges that would tempt any that would daunt any seasoned golfer. archetypical Malaysian architecture with golfer to conquer its terrains. Comprising The wide expanse of undulating Bermuda ventilated high-ceilings, wooden rafters three 18-hole award-winning golf greens, however, would provide an and multi-tiered roof. Among the facilities courses designed by Hiromasa Inagawa advantage to experienced green readers. housed in the Clubhouse are the spacious and appropriately named after the and fully-equipped changing rooms, a exotic Malaysian flora – the Allamanda, The Melati course is a more open buggy terminal, a health centre, a golf Cempaka, and Melati – Palm Resort Golf & course and carpeted with expansive boutique, restaurants, and sports and Country Club offers an awesome golfing Tifdwarf greens complemented by neat leisure centre. experience. Serangoon fairways. It plays as the links course with a ‘first tee only’ start and is For the indoor sports enthusiasts, there The Allamanda course which was the longest of the three courses at 7,205 are the 8-lane bowling alley, a Kid’s World designed as a “Resort Course” is a yards from the black tees. To add to the playground, squash courts, dartboards, favourite course for play featuring golfing challenge, there are 35 sand billiards & snooker, table tennis, board breathtaking scenery of water features, bunkers and a total of 6 holes of water to games and a mahjong room. For the daunting sand bunkers, and carefully conquer. This course has been noted to outdoor sports enthusiasts, there are the manicured Tifdwarf greens hidden be extremely difficult and definitely will Olympic-sized swimming pool, 4 tennis amongst verdant landscaping. test the precision of even the most skillful courts and a lawn court for sports such golfers. as futsal, volleyball, netball, athletics, Playing on the Cempaka course demands team-building activities, telematches, full concentration which requires skill Palm Resort Golf & Country Club takes and outdoor aerobics, which can be in assessment and execution. More pride in its integrated resort with so much conducted by the Club’s sports and intimidating is the number of severe to do, and so much to indulge in the leisure team.

8 54 HOLES TANJONG PUTERI GOLF RESORT

The multi-award winning Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort comprising three 18-hole championship golf courses, 20 cosy guestrooms, 34 units of luxurious double storey villas, 30 exclusive double storey bungalows, 5 Food & Beverage outlets, 7 meeting and banquet rooms, a two tier 52-bay driving range, a Clubhouse and a comprehensive Sports & Recreation Department, is the ultimate resort destination.

It is located only within a 30-minute drive from the JB-Singapore Causeway via the new Eastern Disposal Link (EDL) and the /Kota Tinggi Exit from the North-South Expressway (NSE) and a mere 1 ½ hour’s drive from the Tuas-Second Link.

Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort offers an excellent golfing challenge for amateurs and professionals alike with three options of different yet similarly breathtaking championship golf courses namely Plantation, Village, and Straits that are carved from the rolling hills of oil palm plantations. Designed by internationally known architects Max Wexler and Akira Mamiya, the emphasis was to preserve nature and protect the environment. The articulately landscaped and manicured courses blend with natural forests, mangroves and waterways provide an ambience of closeness to nature. The undulating fairways turfed with Zoysia Matrella and emerald greens of Bermuda Tifdwarf promise golfers a dramatic and challenging game.

The 6,454-metre “Plantation” course was once a thriving oil palm plantation with fruit orchards and coconut groves and golfers can enjoy the lush views of the oil palm fringing the fairways as well as fruit trees. The 6,414-metre “Village” course was originally part of the oil palm estate with human settlement or “kampongs” and is considered as a professional’s challenge course. The 6,163-metre “Straits” course, constructed following closely to the coastline of the Straits of Johor was designed for a more accurate playing strategy as some of the fairways, greens and tee boxes have mangrove swamp as a backdrop.

The Sports & Recreational Centre offers a comprehensive range of activities, facilities and services to cater to the whole family and sports enthusiasts such as an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a children’s pool, a gymnasium, a learner’s pool, a water slide, 4 tennis courts, 2 squash courts, table tennis, an 8-lane bowling alley, games room & kiddies room, a children’s playground, snooker, dart & board games, Amigos horse riding, a kiddie putting trail, kiddies bicycle ride, sand volleyball, broadband services, as well as sauna and Balinese spa.

Information Address: Jalan Tanjong Puteri 1, Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort, 81700, Pasir Gudang, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 271 1888 Fax: (+607) 271 1333 Email: [email protected] Website: www.tpgr.com

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27 HOLES IOI PALM VILLA GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT IOI Palm Villa Golf & Country Resort a wonderful golfing experience. The 2-storey Clubhouse has spacious is a prestigious development by IOI The Palm Course is built to 3,012 function rooms, ample changing Group, located just 20 minutes’ drive meters and is full of water hazard room & locker, a golfer’s terrace, a from Singapore via the Second Link cross playing, dogleg and hilly layout. golf registration centre and a pro Expressway and 28 km from Johor Bahru There are beautiful ponds located shop. Other amenities and facilities city centre. The 27-hole golf course is on the Palm Course and they create include a driving range, putting strategically situated within an exclusive a natural panoramic view for the greens, restaurants, a swimming pool, high-end residential township of enjoyment of golfing. The Putra badminton courts, squash courts, Bandar Putra (IOI) in the vicinity of Senai Course is the second longest nine tennis courts, a sauna, a gymnasium, International Airport and 1km from the built to a distance of 3,097 meters table tennis and snooker tables for IOI Shopping Mall. surrounded by high-end bungalows. both outdoor and indoor sports. Each hole is narrow and covered by IOI Palm Villa is not only a perfect Designed by Rick Robbins, the three rough on both sides of the fairway destination for leisure, it is also a 9-hole courses (Palm Course, Putra making it difficult to estimate the perfect venue for meetings, seminars, Course & IOI Course) with breathtaking distance to landing area. The IOI talks, team-building, exhibitions, landscapes dotted by native palm Course is the longest course built to corporate events, and social events trees and magnificent view of the Pulai a distance of 3,253 meters and is the with friends and family. Mountain will definitely provide you with most challenging course.

Information Address: PTD 44500, Jalan Indah Utama, Bandar Putra, 81000 Kulai, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 599 9099 General Email: [email protected] Reservation Call: Tel: (+6019) 766 4358 (from 7am – 7pm daily) Website: www.palmvilla.com.my

10 18 HOLES PONDEROSA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Information Address: No 3, Jalan Ponderosa 1, Taman Ponderosa, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 354 9999 Fax: (+607) 355 7400 Mobile: (+6019) 790 0501 (from 7am – 8pm daily) Email: [email protected] Website: www.ponderosagolf.com

Tucked away in a sublime suburb of Johor Bahru Ponderosa Golf & Country Club is located just 15 minutes from the city centre and 8 km from the Singapore causeway. Originally designed by Max Wexler, Ponderosa Golf & Country Club blends the natural terrain and tropical foliage to create a natural golf environment that is lush and green. The course was designed as a natural course offering both physical challenges as well as visual treats of panoramic sweeping hills. The 18-hole par-72 golf course was later remodeled by Ronald Fream in 1996 and measures 6,467 and 6,005 metres from the black and blue tees, respectively.

Though considered short by some golfers but with the sand, water hazards, and tricky undulating greens that Fream had so cleverly integrated into the varied contours and undulations of the greens, golfers will need more than just skill. The plethora of water and sand traps, coupled with the testing undulating greens, make Ponderosa a good test for players of all abilities. Moreover, long par-3’s, fairways built around the hills, and strong wind will all further add to the challenge.

Its Clubhouse’s design is inspired by the Spanish- Mediterranean influence and is the first point of welcome for visitors. A resplendent double-storey mansion with high truss-roof ceilings it allows for plenty of natural air and ventilation for a cooling effect. The upper level houses the ballroom and function rooms, administrative offices, and a Chinese restaurant. The lower ground houses the Golfer’s Terrace where visitors will be greeted by the first breathtaking glimpse of the sweeping golf course and can enjoy a scrumptious meal. Other facilities include the Cantina Café, a Lounge, a pro shop, a driving range, tennis courts, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a children fun pool, a gymnasium and a spa.

Adjacent to the clubhouse is the double storey western country-style 16-room Lodge that offers a variation of rooms and suites that readily caters to those wishing to derive more out of their visit to Ponderosa. The Lodge is ideal for a stay-over after a round of golf, mini tournaments, weddings, seminars, team-building, corporate meetings or simply a vacation with friends and family.

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27 HOLES THE LEGENDS GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT

The Legends Golf & Country Resort was highest international standard. The a complete range of sporting, leisure, brought together by two of the world’s fairways, tees, and greens are classic entertainment, and resort facilities. golf legends - Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer style. Based on an eco-friendly Palmer – to design two international design blending in with the rolling hills, Apart from the usual amenities found standard golf courses at the resort. matured oil palm trees, and meandering in most Resorts and Clubs such as The par-72, 6,710-meter 18-hole Jack streams, Palmer provided a “matured” swimming pools, driving range, Nicklaus championship course was fully golf course with generous landing areas restaurants, pro shops, changing rooms, open for play in June 1997. The layout is from the tees for the golfers. and function rooms, The Legends Golf an enjoyable design with many elevation & Country Resort offers unique family changes and sprawling bunkering, Located in , Johor, it is only 25 activities like mountain biking, a children occupying relatively open terrain. km from Johor Bahru and 40 minutes playground, horse-riding, lake fishing, from the Second Causeway via the jacuzzi, sauna & steam rooms. Guests can The spectacular 3,326-meter 9-hole North-South Expressway. The Legends come and enjoy the indoor and outdoor Arnold Palmer course was built Golf & Country Club is a master planned activities and stay at The Legends purposely to complement the 18-hole resort comprising a 27-hole golf course, Guestrooms that are built and furnished Jack Nicklaus Course and is of the a superb equestrian centre, as well as in contemporary Asian style.

Information Address: Lot 1302, Kebun Sedenak, P.O. Box 11, 81000 Kulai, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 652 4388 Fax: (+607) 652 5516 General Email: [email protected] Website: www.legends-resort.com

12 36 HOLES STARHILL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Information Address: KM 6.5, Jalan Kampong Maju Jaya, Lama, 81330 Skudai, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 558 8111 / (+607) 556 6325 Fax: (+607) 556 7327 Email: [email protected] Website: www.starhill-golf.com

Located in Kemas Lama, Skudai on the northwestern part of Johor Bahru, Starhill Golf & Country Club was built on a plantation and swampland and is divided into two 18-hole courses namely the Bintang Course and Bukit Course.

The Bintang Course (lightly tree-lined, parkland layout) was built largely over riverine and swamp areas. At a length of 6,834 yards from the tips, the par-72 layout poses an interesting range of difficulties to any golfer. Water serves as the primary obstacle for this course although the fairways are wide and generous. Each hole on this course has been designed to provide a new and exciting challenge to the golfer. The fairways are turfed with Zoysia Matrella while Tifdwarf carpets the greens.

The Bukit Course’s main feature is its undulating hills but with wider fairways and large greens. Unlike its sister course “Bintang” the Bukit is considered the easier of the two courses with wider offer many challenges to any golfer. fun – perfect for families with children. fairways, fewer trees, and less water. The The Clubhouse offers facilities such as slopping terrains of the hills result in Members and guests can also enjoy the restaurants, changing rooms, a Japanese many uneven lies and there are also other facilities and activities on the premises jacuzzi (for males only), function rooms, obstacles such as ponds, fairways and and in the Clubhouse. The Starhill Golf a pro shop, a driving range, Starhill VIP green bunkers. Measuring 7,135 yards in & Country Club Water Park is definitely a House (for members only), and Starhill length this par-72 course layout will still place to be for endless hours of soaking Junior Academy.

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18 HOLES AUSTIN HEIGHTS GOLF & HOTEL RESORT Information Address: Lot PTD 58061, Jalan Mutiara Emas 8, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 352 4300 Fax: (+607) 353 8500 Reservation Email: [email protected] Website: www.austingolfresort.com Built on a very hilly terrain, Austin Heights that the course adds in make it very Golf & Hotel Resort is a difficult course as challenging indeed. To inject a little test the natural undulations and contouring to the game, there are many undulating a steam bath, a gymnasium, a swimming will definitely challenge any golfer of all fairways and each hole is sculptured pool, a bowling alley, a tennis court, a skill levels. Designed by the renowned from the natural land of the original cinema room, karaoke rooms, banquet international golf course designer, Nigel hilly terrain. With its tight fairways and seminar rooms, cafes for casual and B. Douglas, it is an 18-hole championship and smallish greens good course formal dining and a golfer’s terrace. golf course featuring the natural beauty management is essential in order to of the terrain and vegetation offering score well. Additionally, the 65 spacious suites with varying degrees of challenges that will a scenic view of the golf course complete provide a true test to each golfer. A majestic Clubhouse perching the resort as a perfect getaway for not strategically over the hilltop overlooking just golfing, but weddings, celebrations, The greens are difficult because the a 360 degrees panoramic view of entertainment, recreation, team-building course is built among the hills and it the Austin Heights township offers programmes and meetings as well. is Austin Heights’ trademark of a 3-tier clubhouse amenities and facilities Austin Heights is truly an ideal golf green. The undulations and contouring namely a driving range, a sauna, a jacuzzi, vacation destination for the entire family.

14 18 HOLES GOLF RESORT

Situated in Pontian, Kukup Golf Resort VIP lounge with music, karaoke and pool front and at Pontian town. provides an 18-hole course spreading tables, a pro shop, and a jacuzzi & spa. National Park (Taman Negara), Kukup over 312 acres with a 20-bay driving The Sports & Recreational Centre offers Island, Kukup Fishing Village, Kelong Fish range. Kukup Golf Resort is only 45 facilities such as a lap pool, a lagoon pool, Farming, Bee Farm and Pineapple Farm minutes’ drive from Singapore via the table tennis, tennis, squash & badminton and the tree-top houses are some of the Second Link and 4 hours’ drive from courts, and a gymnasium. local attractions awaiting visitors. Kuala Lumpur. This par-72 course measuring 6,225 meters was designed Kukup Golf Resort takes pride in its by Japan’s premier golf course designer immaculately kept condition. Carefully named Atsumi Kawase. The golf course laid to present a mild challenge but a is beautifully carved on undulating thoroughly rejuvenating trip around the rolling terrain with many well-positioned undulating hills and trees, the course bunkers and challenging water hazards is memorable because it leaves golfers making it a challenging course that will refreshed after each round. It is a great test your golfing skills. retreat for those seeking golf, relaxation and seafood at the famous Kukup Kukup Golf Resort hosts 18 villas fishing village to savour the scrumptious comprising 60 rooms, 5 ballrooms to seafood. Seafood lovers will be spoiled cater to various functions, restaurants, a for choice of restaurants at Kukup sea

Information Address: Pekan Penerok, 82300 Pontian, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 696 0950 Fax: (+607) 696 0963 Email: [email protected] Website: www.kukupgolfresort.com.my

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18 HOLES GOLF RESORT

The Forest City Golf Resort is poised to as well as the renowned golf course meant to be challenging yet fun for all be another prestigious championship designer Mr. Liang Guokun, is expected level of golf players. Large sandy waste golf course in Johor, making the state to further be a part of the bigger players and dune areas populated with native a premier golfing destination. Set to in Johor to add more value to the state grasses and coconut palms offering redefine golf tourism to embrace the as a golf paradise. The first golf course, a striking contrast from the platinum “complete golf holiday experience” named Forest City Legacy Golf Course, paspalum greens, trees and fairways will it is scheduled to open in July 2018. would give golfers the experience and pose many challenges to the golfers. Being only a stone’s throw away from affordability that are not found in other the Tuas Second Link, this golf resort golf courses. Facilities and amenities available include is easily accessible by the international a dual-ended driving range with grass golfers, residents as well as visitors. The Jack Nicklaus worked the 9th and 18th and trees, numerous target greens and Forest City Golf Resort will be the new greens around a hill and the golf course practice bunkers, a comprehensive short golf tourism icon in Johor comprising a has beautiful views of the . game area, and a large putting green. 5-star hotel with a spectacular golf view, From a “playerbility’s” standpoint, the three stunning golf courses and a mix design of the golf course is unique of low density residences comprising as golfers would not be able to find Information apartments and villas. anything like it in Singapore or Malaysia. Although the terrains are challenging, Address: The Forest City Golf Resort, offering a the golf course is built with the Forest City Golf Hotel, Jalan Persiaran Golf 5, Forest City Golf Resort, 81550, tri-course, with the first 18 holes jointly- amateur golfer in mind, as well as for , Johor Darul Ta’zim designed by the golfing legend Jack handicappers and professional golfers. Tel: (+607) 535 2338 Nicklaus and his son Jack Nicklaus II The designs of the golf courses are

16 9 HOLES IMPIAN EMAS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Address: No 1, Persiaran Seri Impian, Taman Impian Emas, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 552 2202 Email: [email protected] Website: www.ponderosagolf.com

Managed by Ponderosa Golf & Country Resort Bhd, Impian Emas Golf & Country Club is one of the best 9-hole public golf courses in the country. Designed by Ronald Fream, this golf course is strategically located in Taman Impian Emas, one of the largest housing estates in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. This 9-hole public golf course may seem short but is extremely challenging with a superb variety of holes, a clubhouse equipped with changing rooms, an impressive Golfers Terrace to unwind after golf and flood-lit nine-bay driving range.

9 HOLES S.T. RHODES CLUB Address: Johore Estate, P.O. Box 101, , 85400 , Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 926 1209 / (+607) 926 3857 Mobile: (+6012) 711 3656 Email: [email protected]

A marble plaque proclaims that R.M.E. Michaux opened the club on 26 March 1955, in honour of S.T. Rhodes. Situated next to the Segamat-Johor Bahru Road, this is a 9-hole, relatively long par-36 course measuring 2,660 metres. Like all golf courses of the British era, it is characterised by undulating fairways. The club provides other recreational facilities, including two tennis courts, a 25-metre lap pool with diving platform, a wading pool, a billiard room and a putting green. It is located on the Johor Labis Estate in Cha’ah, Segamat.

9 HOLES GUTHRIE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Address: Ladang Ulu Remis, P.O. Box 103, 81850 Layang-Layang, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+6017) 207 1671 Email: [email protected]

The 9-hole (par 36) Guthrie Golf & Country Club situated on Ladang Ulu Remis at Layang-Layang, Johor features 3,350 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 36. This public course was designed by the British planters based on a parkland course to preserve its natural environment and setting of lush greens and matured trees. Golf amenities provided include a putting green and trolley rental. Its Clubhouse also provides other facilities such as a café and lockers.

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Information Address: No 18, Jalan Pesona, , 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 364 9770 / (+607) 364 9707 Fax: (+607) 364 9970 General Email: [email protected] Website: 18 HOLES www.daiman.com.my DAIMAN 18 GOLF CLUB

Daiman 18 Golf Club is located in This scenic golfing haven offers an ideal The greens have been upgraded Taman Johor Raya, , on the location for your rest and recreation. Both which now can reach up to 10.5 on eastern part of Johor Bahru, and just a local and visiting golfers from abroad the Stimpmeter and the bunker sands short drive away from the city centre. It can truly gather and unwind within and drainage have also been improved is surrounded by housing estates with the serene surrounds and comfortable for a much better golfing experience. Giant Hypermart Plentong across the countryside settings of this reasonably- One of the major changes made was . The golf course priced sporting destination. the lengthening of Hole 7, which now was built on former rubber and oil palm plays as a par 4 instead of a par 3; thus estates. Some of the rubber and oil Daiman 18 currently does more than bringing total par of 72. palm trees were left on the landscape to 3,000 rounds a month and boasts of provide a natural environmental setting having one of the best greens among One of the unique features of the to the golf course. Now a par-72 course the courses in Johor Bahru. The newly- Clubhouse is the open area overlooking measuring 5,837 metres from the back renovated clubhouse offers facilities that the golf course that is converted to a 16 tees, the layout provides a good test of include a driving range, changing rooms, –bay driving range at night with golfers golf with oil palm tree-lined fairways function rooms, a 1000-pax capacity hitting out to the 18th hole. The range trapped by numerous ponds and banquet hall, and one of the best Chinese has become a popular rendezvous for bunkers. restaurants in Johor Bahru. golfers living in the vicinity.

18 9 HOLES COUNTRY CLUB Address: Jalan , 86000 Kluang, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 771 8840 Fax: (+607) 772 1503 Email: [email protected]

One of the pioneer 9-hole golf courses in Johor, Kluang Country Club features fairways spread out over a hilly terrain. It is a membership club, which, at its inception, traditionally catered to the early British planters and local elite. Today, this walking course welcomes visitors. An in-house restaurant serves food and refreshments. While members enjoy its other facilities, guests can have a game at the billiard table. This 9-hole (par 36) golf course is located at Jalan Mengkibol, Kluang in Johor.

9 HOLES SEGAMAT COUNTRY CLUB Address: KM 4, Jalan , P.O. Box C22 85007 Segamat, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 943 5968 Fax: (+607) 943 2301 Email: [email protected]

Located at Jalan Genuang, Taman Seri Wajar in Segamat, Segamat Country Club is another legacy of the colonial era. It sprawls over a slightly hilly terrain with ponds to entrap wayward or sliced shots. This 9-hole par-36 golf course offers a relaxed and fun environment to play golf. Its Clubhouse offers extensive facilities as well which include a driving range, a practice putting green, golf club rental, a swimming pool, restaurant & lounge, a pro shop, badminton & tennis courts, among others. The walk-in rates are very affordable and this course is a popular golf destination for locals, tourists, as well as Japanese and Taiwanese expatriates.

9 HOLES GOLF CLUB Address: No 678, Jalan Dato’ Mohd Shah, 83000 Batu Pahat, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 432 9221 Fax: (+607) 434 2221 Email: [email protected]

Batu Pahat Golf Club is a public 9-hole golf course (par 36). The course has many undulating terrains with tight fairways and plenty of OBs. Founded in 1962 it is a walking golf course with amenities namely putting green, golf clubs rental, pull cart for hire, and caddies. Its Clubhouse offers facilities like a pro shop, and restaurant. Batu Pahat Golf Club is located at Jalan Dato’ Mohd Shah in Batu Pahat, Johor.

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18 HOLES BUKIT BANANG GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Located 6 km from Batu Pahat, Johor, with Tifdwarf to create a true putting placed bunkers. Bukit Banang Golf & Country Club is less surface. This course was truly designed than two and a half hours’ drive from to blend well with nature and the green The returning nine is referred to as the Singapore and three and a half hours’ freshness of the undulating fairways. Lake Nine because of the presence of drive from Kuala Lumpur. The 18-hole four lakes linked by a stream that cuts golf course is sprawled over a 165- The front nine, called the Valley Nine, across most of the fairways. To handle acre site amidst lush tropical greenery plays into the hilly undulating terrains the more demanding nature of Lake offering a resplendent and scenic view of Banang Mountain with scenic, Nine, one has to possess accuracy and which is an ideal recreational getaway winding fairways, and sloping greens. good course management. for the avid golfers. Scoring a par on the second hole par 5 is a satisfying feat because one has Amenities and facilities at the Designed by Micheal Coates and to conquer a large pond dissecting clubhouse include an Olympic-sized Associates the course is suitable for the fairway in the second shot. The swimming pool, squash, badminton, golfers with different skills, offering eighth hole par 3 is memorable to tennis, and basketball courts, a them challenging yet not imposing golf many golfers for its sheer distance at gymnasium, sauna for both male and experiences. The fairways are turfed with 215 meters with the sloping green female, a 26-bay driving range, banquet Bermuda Greenless Park and the greens that is shielded by two strategically rooms, restaurants, and more.

Information Address: No 1, Persiaran Gemilang, Bandar Banang Jaya, 83000 Batu Pahat, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 428 5431 Fax: (+607) 428 6801 General Email: [email protected] Website: www.berjayaclubs.com

20 9 HOLES NAM HENG COUNTRY CLUB Address: Nam Heng Estate, KB 502, 81909 Kota Tinggi, Johor Darul Ta’zim

Nam Heng Country Club is situated on Nam Heng Estate in Kota Tinggi, Johor. It takes about 45 minutes from the Johor Bahru city centre, 1 hour from the Second Link, and 50 minutes from Senai Airport by road. This 9-hole public golf course was designed by G. M. Price. The facilities provided by its Clubhouse include tennis courts, swimming pool, driving range, putting green, golf clubs rental, restaurant, among others.

9 HOLES TANJONG EMAS GOLF CLUB Address: JKR 202, Jalan Timbalan, 84000 , Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+606) 952 1550 Fax: (+606) 952 1550 Email: [email protected]

Tanjong Emas Golf Club is one of the British Army-designed golf clubs and definitely a legacy of the colonial era. Now turned public, the 9-hole course allows golfers to play to their hearts’ content. The par-36, 2,919-meter fairways stretch over a flat terrain by a river and golfers should watch out for the ponds. Tanjung Emas Golf Club is located at Jalan Timbalan in Muar, Johor.

9 HOLES GOLF CLUB Address: No 6, Jalan Permas Selatan, Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, 81750 Masai, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+6016) 880 4087 Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.facebook.com/permasjayagolf/ Instagram: permasjaya_golf

Built in 1994 Permas Jaya Golf Club is a 9-hole public golf course in Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, in Masai, Johor Bahru. It is located right after the . The par-36, 3,131-meter fairway stretch will provide golfers with a fulfilling play experience. To add, the green fees, caddy and buggy fees are affordable.

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36 HOLES PORESIA GOLF CLUB & RESORT

The Poresia Golf Club and Resort that sets on a 1,700-acre of a greater golf resort complex comes with a 36-hole par-72 course. Located 25 km south of Johor Bahru, Poresia Golf Club and Resort is the nearest golfing resort to Singapore. It takes only 15 minutes from the Tuas checkpoint and 45 minutes from Johor Bahru city centre. The club was designed for both golf professionals and amateurs alike by the renowned international golf course architect, Pete Dye.

Golfers playing at Poresia will enjoy the rich and natural vegetation of the surroundings as well as the flower garden along the course. The landscapes are lush and green The generally good-width fairways golfing facility featuring a swimming portraying the richness of Johor’s are sometimes flanked by large pool, a pro shop, restaurants, a driving natural beauty. Four interchangeable bunkers built from railway sleepers. A range and other amenities. 9-hole loops which are the Hibiscus, meandering creek ensures plenty of Orchid, Sakura, and Bougainvillea water hazards lie in wait in Sakura’s Information all make up the 36 championship middle section. A few holes have holes laid out on this former oil palm creeks crossing the fairways twice, Address: KM 36, Mukim Tanjong Kupang, plantation. setting up some excellent risk-reward opportunities for longer hitters. 81550 Gelang Patah, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim Although Orchid / Hibiscus are the The Orchid Course is arguably the Tel: (+607) 558 1733 / (+607) 557 8812 strongest combination the Orchid best of the four; challenging from Fax: (+607) 559 1813 / Sakura will provide low and mid- start to finish, but likely to be tough- General Email: going for high-handicappers. As handicappers with an excellent and [email protected] for the Sakura Course, the terrains testing outing. Website: are constantly undulating and are www.poresia.com.sg lightly lined up with palm trees. Poresia Country Club is a full service

22 18 HOLES SEBANA GOLF & MARINA RESORT

Located at the southern-most tip of golf course built by retaining as much lush trees resembling a secondary Johor, at the source of the tranquil as possible the natural terrain of the forest to create a challenging golfing Santi River, Sebana Golf & Marina site, it also has natural greenery of leisure. Resort is a truly integrated golf, marina, residential and holiday resort all within a superb eco-setting. Nestled against pristine natural greenery, Sebana Golf & Marina Resort is a 1,200- acre resort township where residential and commercial components are cohesively planned alongside an exclusive private marina and an 18- hole golf course. The excitement of Sebana Golf & Marina Resort begins as you enter, either on your own boat or by its ferry direct from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, Singapore.

The 18-hole golf course was designed by Ted Parslow, an internationally renowned golf architect. A unique

Information Address: Lot PTD 2940, Mukim , 81600 Pengerang, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 826 6655 / (+607) 826 6688 Fax: (+607) 826 6622 Email: [email protected] Website: www.sebanacove.com

23 24 This is a special edition published by Johor Golf Tourism Association in promoting golf tourism in Johor Darul Ta’zim.

DISCLAIMER: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, Johor Golf Tourism Association accept no liability and responsibility for any usage rights, errors and/or omissions. All images used within this publication are supplied and courtesy of the golf clubs and resorts in Johor Darul Ta’zim and belong to the respective owners.

Norlin Nor Editor MALAYSIA’S JOHOR Golf Par adise

www.jgta.org.my