JOHOR MALAYSIA’S Golf Paradise
1 A TREASURE JOHOR TROVE OF GOLF COURSES This special edition of publication features twenty seven golf courses in Johor Darul Ta’zim of which many are of international standard and multi-award winning that have been designed by some of the world’s foremost and renowned course architects namely Ernie Els, Vijay Singh, Max Wexler, Robert Trent Jones II, Jack Nicklaus, Jack Nicklaus II, Arnold Palmer, Rick Robbins, Hiromasa Inagawa, Akira Mamiya, Peter Dye, Ross Watson, Ronald Fream, Nigel B. Douglas, and many more. Each golf course is unique in its own class, set against a backdrop of either pristine coastline, or the serene tranquility of nature, lush greens, calm lakes, plantations or swamps, their natural beauty is mesmerising and captivating. The Clubhouses are nothing short of providing first-class services and facilities for the comfort of all visitors and golfers. Johor Golf Tourism Association, in a bid to promote Johor Darul Ta’zim as the region’s premier golfing destination, is working very closely with all the golf courses to offer and provide a “complete holiday experience” for golfers and their families. Johor Darul Ta’zim is proud to have the highest number of golf courses of varying classes in luxury and exclusiveness from the largest courses of 54 holes to the small courses of 9 holes for golfers of all skill levels. And with the twenty seven golf courses spreading out all over the state Johor Darul Ta’zim has established itself as a premier golf destination in the recent years. Each golf course offers challenging fairways amidst spectacular sights, world-class facilities and amenities for the comfort and pleasure of golfers and visitors. Each golf course provides avid golfers a unique experience that will linger in their minds for a long time. Golfers can come and play on former coconut and oil palm plantations and wetland, or by the crashing waves of the sea, or amidst frolicking greens and tranquil surroundings, or amidst the serenity and calmness of freshwater lakes, or even in the busy city of Johor Bahru. Johor Darul Ta’zim dubbed as the “Southern Gateway to Malaysia” is in close proximity to Singapore, Batam, Bintan, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Korea, and many other countries in the nearby region. The easy accessibility and strategic location of Johor Darul Ta’zim makes the state a popular golfing destination in the region. Undoubtedly, Johor Darul Ta’zim is a treasure trove of golf courses and resorts. Thus, it takes pride to lay claim to being Malaysia’s Golfer’s Paradise!
2 GOLFING The Els Club Desaru Coast – Ocean Course is one of the most renowned and prestigious courses designed by the 4-time major championship winner and former World No. 1, “The Big Easy” South African, Ernie Els. It sets to change Malaysia’s golfing landscape forever to become the country’s most revered golf course. Located in Kota Tinggi, Johor, and nestled along the pristine Desaru Coast overlooking the open South China Sea, the Ocean Course runs parallel to the coast and is one of the most beautiful golf courses in Malaysia. The Els Club Desaru Coast - Ocean Course offers 27 holes of championship golf that comprises three distinctly different 9-hole courses aptly named the Ocean, Ridge, and Lake, each providing a challenge for all skill levels. The Ocean Course naturally exudes sheer elegance and magnificence while requiring strategic play. It really poses exciting challenge for both low and high handicappers. With multiple tee boxes on each hole, the golf course meanders through natural wetlands and lakes as it makes its way through the spectacular natural rolling terrain set alongside the South China Sea. Each hole on the Ocean Course bears the Els mark of strategy, beauty, and elegance. The flow of the golf course is unique in South East Asia. Carts are permitted on the fairways and are fitted with the most recent GPS system. The signature hole is the par-5 2nd, which sits on The Coast stage of the course. THE ELS CLUB DESARU COAST – OCEAN COURSE 27 HOLES 9 HOLES PAR 3 ACADEMY COURSE Information Address: No 4, Jalan Danau, Desaru Coast, 81930 Bandar Penawar, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 878 0000 General Email: [email protected] Reservation Email: [email protected] Website: www.elsclubmalaysia.com
3 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 unique design allows the course to be played in many different directions, which is great for corporate events and team-building programs. PAR 3 ACADEMY COURSE
4 Located in Kota Tinggi, Johor, and tucked away in the pristine Desaru Coast, it is one of the newest golf courses in the region, offering a complete golfing experience. The Els Club Desaru Coast - Valley Course is the product of a world’s first-ever collaboration between Ernie Els and his close friend and fellow Major Champion and World Golf Hall of Famer, Vijay Singh. This collaboration has put a seal to the golf development in Desaru Coast and raises the prestige and appeal of what is already one of the world’s premier golf destinations. The Valley Course, a par-72, which lies adjacent to The Els Club Desaru Coast – Ocean Course, is an 18-hole Championship layout measuring up to 7,200 yards. The course is nothing short of epic and the condition and quality is a cut above. The course has a distinct character, set by dramatic elevation changes and stunning ocean vistas. It has been crafted around a series of undulations, providing impressive views around the Desaru Coast region. The immediate impact of the undulating landscape and smattering of uniquely placed white sandy bunkers is unforgettable. The key features of the 18-hole Valley Course are golf carts having the latest state-of-the-art GPS system and are permitted on the fairways, full grassed driving range with multiple target greens, short game practice areas for chipping and putting, fully stocked golf shop, full amenity locker rooms, Valley Course Clubhouse with an open plaza concept, casual dining restaurant, and a meeting space. At Lembah Restaurant, you’ll enjoy a great dining experience while overlooking the stunning golf course and landscape. There is a wide selection of food for you to choose ranging from Malaysian to North Indian and Fijian cuisines. The Els Club Desaru Coast with 45 holes of golf (the 27-hole Ocean Course and 18-hole Valley Course) set out alongside the region’s first Els Performance Golf Academy and the Academy par-3 course, makes it as one of the most comprehensive golf destinations in the world. The Els Club Desaru Coast will elevate Desaru Coast into one of the region’s most comprehensive and exclusive golf destinations. THE ELS CLUB DESARU COAST – VALLEY COURSE GOLFING 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] Website: www.elsclubmalaysia.com 18 HOLES
5 The multi-award winning championship golf course Horizon Hills is a breathtaking and challenging 18-hole course located in the heart of Iskandar Puteri and is easily accessible via the North-South Expressway, MalaysiaSingapore Second Link, Skudai Expressway, and JB Parkway (Perling 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 pool, wading pool for kids, a fullyequipped gymnasium, tennis courts, sports activities, a pro shop, a grand ballroom and a variety of F&B outlets at its signature country clubhouse designed by Argentinean Ernesto Bedmar. Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club also offers sports & recreational lessons namely swimming, tennis, taekwondo, zumba, yoga, yogalates, aerobic, fitness, and circuit training. There are four F&B outlets to serve golfers and members of the public namely the Golfer’s Terrace, CrossOver Bar, Cathay Chinese Restaurant (overlooking the 9th hole and the practice area) and the Poolside Café (overlooking the Olympic-sized swimming pool and wading pool for kids). The Horizon Ballroom is an impressive state-of-the-art venue that can cater to any entertainment and formal events. Horizon Hills has hosted prestigious tournaments namely the Iskandar Johor Open Tournament making it as one of the popular stops on the Asian Tour. The golf legends that have played here include Colin Montgomerie, John Daly, K.J. Choi, Anthony Kim, Henrik Stenson, Louis Oosthuizen, the 3-time major championship winner Padraig Harrington, as well as the 4-time major championship winner and former World No. 1, Ernie Els. HORIZON HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 18 HOLES Information Address: No 1, Jalan Eka, Horizon Hills, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 232 3166 (+607) 235 7057 Fax: (+607) 232 3919 General Email: [email protected] Website: www.hhgcc.com.my
The Johor Golf & Country Club is the first 18-hole golf course in Johor Darul Ta’zim. Located at Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, it is only a 15-minute drive from the Johor Bahru city centre. The 159-acre golf course designed in an old-style parkland layout was built on a water catchment area with undulating terrain that is blessed with virgin tropical jungle. The natural terrain was maintained without much earth movement. The original jungle trees were retained and this makes the course very difficult especially when one misses the fairways. The golf course, originally designed by Dato’ Ahmad Adam, opened its first nine holes in 1968. The second 9-hole course was opened in 1974 making Johor Golf & Country Club the first 18- hole golf course in Johor Darul Ta’zim. Redesigned by the renowned Max Wexler in 1991, the golf course is a lot more challenging today with Bermuda Tifdwarf grass laid on the greens, new tee boxes, local cow grass on the fairways, more bunkers and additional ponds in placed giving golfers a whole new playing experience. Johor Golf & Country Club has hosted numerous prestigious and international tournaments in the past. It was the home to the Johor Amateur Open, inaugurated in 1973, for more than 25 years before it moved on to other venues. Another was the Royal Johor Invitational Amateur Open Championship initiated in 2002 which is listed in the world golf amateur ranking that had gathered all the top amateur golfers from the region and afar. It also hosted the Pan West Malaysian Amateur Open 2003, the Malaysian National Inter-team Championship in August 2006, as well as other professional tournaments such as the Kosaido Malaysian Ladies Open, Royal Johor Golf Classic, and the PFP Golf Classic. It has also hosted international tournaments like the first three editions of the Iskandar Open in 2007, 2008 and 2009 with notable winners namely K.J. Choi and Retief Goosen. The Clubhouse features facilities such as a driving range, a putting green, a pro shop, a gymnasium, a swimming pool, a billiard room, a spa & sauna, tennis & squash courts, men’s & women’s changing rooms, and a reading & TV room. Being the first 18-hole golf course, the Johor Golf & Country Club still remains to be a popular venue for avid golfers. 6 JOHOR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB GOLFING 18 HOLES Information Address: Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, 80200, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 224 2098 / (+607) 223 3322 Fax: (+607) 224 0729 Email: [email protected] Website: www.johorgolfandcountryclub.com
7 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 environmentallyresponsible 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 contents. The course will challenge golfers through some difficult-to-manoeuvre holes and the freshwater ponds which are strategically placed. The greens are laid with Bermuda Tifdwarf which is among the most popular grass used while the surrounding scenery and landscape make the game a lot more satisfying and rewarding. Unlike many other golf courses, Orchard Golf & Country Club is not a mere test of strength and distance, but it is about technique, measure of accuracy and shot-making. Designed to accommodate and reward golfers of all abilities, length and power off the tee are not the most critical elements to play well. Thus, it is a great destination for golfers of all levels including the novice players to develop their golfing skills and the seasoned golfers to sharpen and improve their game. The Clubhouse provides many modern amenities and facilities. The pro shop provides a wide range of supplies needed for a game. The swimming pool is a great place to take a dip after a long and hot day and the gym is for those looking for a good workout. The sauna and spa facilities provide a rejuvenating and refreshing experience while the Golfer’s Terrace overlooking the beautiful greens is the place to go to enjoy a meal or two. The Orchard Golf & Country Club is definitely the place to be that will provide some of the best and most memorable golfing experiences at its beautiful greens and challenging holes. ORCHARD GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 18 HOLES Information Address: KM 19, Jalan Kulai 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]
8 Palm Resort Golf & Country Club spans across 800 acres of undulating hills and scenic lakes offering varying degrees of challenges that would tempt any golfer to conquer its terrains. Comprising three 18-hole award-winning golf courses designed by Hiromasa Inagawa and appropriately named after the exotic Malaysian flora – the Allamanda, Cempaka, and Melati – Palm Resort Golf & Country Club offers an awesome golfing experience. The Allamanda course which was designed as a “Resort Course” is a favourite course for play featuring breathtaking scenery of water features, daunting sand bunkers, and carefully manicured Tifdwarf greens hidden amongst verdant landscaping. Playing on the Cempaka course demands full concentration which requires skill in assessment and execution. More intimidating is the number of severe doglegs, narrow fairways, 9 holes of water and more than 60 sand bunkers together with the winding Serangoon fairways that would daunt any seasoned golfer. The wide expanse of undulating Bermuda greens, however, would provide an advantage to experienced green readers. The Melati course is a more open course and carpeted with expansive Tifdwarf greens complemented by neat Serangoon fairways. It plays as the links course with a ‘first tee only’ start and is the longest of the three courses at 7,205 yards from the black tees. To add to the golfing challenge, there are 35 sand bunkers and a total of 6 holes of water to conquer. This course has been noted to be extremely difficult and definitely will test the precision of even the most skillful golfers. Palm Resort Golf & Country Club takes pride in its integrated resort with so much to do, and so much to indulge in the indoor and outdoor sports and leisure centre as well as the hotel’s facilities. The Clubhouse is resplendent in its archetypical Malaysian architecture with ventilated high-ceilings, wooden rafters and multi-tiered roof. Among the facilities housed in the Clubhouse are the spacious and fully-equipped changing rooms, a buggy terminal, a health centre, a golf boutique, restaurants, and sports and leisure centre. For the indoor sports enthusiasts, there are the 8-lane bowling alley, a Kid’s World playground, squash courts, dartboards, billiards & snooker, table tennis, board games and a mahjong room. For the outdoor sports enthusiasts, there are the Olympic-sized swimming pool, 4 tennis courts and a lawn court for sports such as futsal, volleyball, netball, athletics, team-building activities, telematches, and outdoor aerobics, which can be conducted by the Club’s sports and leisure team. PALM RESORT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB GOLFING 18 HOLES Information Address: Jalan Persiaran Golf, Off Jalan Jumbo, 81250 Senai, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 599 2000 / (+607) 599 6222 Fax: (+607) 599 1370 Reservation Email: [email protected] General Enquiry Email: [email protected] Website: www.palmresort.com
9 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 Pasir Gudang/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. TANJONG PUTERI GOLF RESORT 54 HOLES 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
10 IOI Palm Villa Golf & Country Resort is a prestigious development by IOI Group, located just 20 minutes’ drive from Singapore via the Second Link Expressway and 28 km from Johor Bahru city centre. The 27-hole golf course is strategically situated within an exclusive high-end residential township of Bandar Putra (IOI) in the vicinity of Senai International Airport and 1km from the IOI Shopping Mall. Designed by Rick Robbins, the three 9-hole courses (Palm Course, Putra Course & IOI Course) with breathtaking landscapes dotted by native palm trees and magnificent view of the Pulai Mountain will definitely provide you with a wonderful golfing experience. The Palm Course is built to 3,012 meters and is full of water hazard cross playing, dogleg and hilly layout. There are beautiful ponds located on the Palm Course and they create a natural panoramic view for the enjoyment of golfing. The Putra Course is the second longest nine built to a distance of 3,097 meters surrounded by high-end bungalows. Each hole is narrow and covered by rough on both sides of the fairway making it difficult to estimate the distance to landing area. The IOI Course is the longest course built to a distance of 3,253 meters and is the most challenging course. The 2-storey Clubhouse has spacious function rooms, ample changing room & locker, a golfer’s terrace, a golf registration centre and a pro shop. Other amenities and facilities include a driving range, putting greens, restaurants, a swimming pool, badminton courts, squash courts, tennis courts, a sauna, a gymnasium, table tennis and snooker tables for both outdoor and indoor sports. IOI Palm Villa is not only a perfect destination for leisure, it is also a perfect venue for meetings, seminars, talks, team-building, exhibitions, corporate events, and social events with friends and family. IOI PALM VILLA GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT GOLFING 27 HOLES 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
11 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 SpanishMediterranean 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. PONDEROSA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 18 HOLES 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
12 The Legends Golf & Country Resort was brought together by two of the world’s golf legends - Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer – to design two international standard golf courses at the resort. The par-72, 6,710-meter 18-hole Jack Nicklaus championship course was fully open for play in June 1997. The layout is an enjoyable design with many elevation changes and sprawling bunkering, occupying relatively open terrain. The spectacular 3,326-meter 9-hole Arnold Palmer course was built purposely to complement the 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Course and is of the highest international standard. The fairways, tees, and greens are classic Palmer style. Based on an eco-friendly design blending in with the rolling hills, matured oil palm trees, and meandering streams, Palmer provided a “matured” golf course with generous landing areas from the tees for the golfers. Located in Sedenak, Johor, it is only 25 km from Johor Bahru and 40 minutes from the Second Causeway via the North-South Expressway. The Legends Golf & Country Club is a master planned resort comprising a 27-hole golf course, a superb equestrian centre, as well as a complete range of sporting, leisure, entertainment, and resort facilities. Apart from the usual amenities found in most Resorts and Clubs such as swimming pools, driving range, restaurants, pro shops, changing rooms, and function rooms, The Legends Golf & Country Resort offers unique family activities like mountain biking, a children playground, horse-riding, lake fishing, jacuzzi, sauna & steam rooms. Guests can come and enjoy the indoor and outdoor activities and stay at The Legends Guestrooms that are built and furnished in contemporary Asian style. THE LEGENDS GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT GOLFING 27 HOLES 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
13 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 fairways, fewer trees, and less water. The slopping terrains of the hills result in many uneven lies and there are also other obstacles such as ponds, fairways and green bunkers. Measuring 7,135 yards in length this par-72 course layout will still offer many challenges to any golfer. Members and guests can also enjoy the facilities and activities on the premises and in the Clubhouse. The Starhill Golf & Country Club Water Park is definitely a place to be for endless hours of soaking fun – perfect for families with children. The Clubhouse offers facilities such as restaurants, changing rooms, a Japanese jacuzzi (for males only), function rooms, a pro shop, a driving range, Starhill VIP House (for members only), and Starhill Junior Academy. STARHILL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 36 HOLES Information Address: KM 6.5, Jalan Kampong Maju Jaya, Kempas 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
14 Built on a very hilly terrain, Austin Heights Golf & Hotel Resort is a difficult course as the natural undulations and contouring will definitely challenge any golfer of all skill levels. Designed by the renowned international golf course designer, Nigel B. Douglas, it is an 18-hole championship golf course featuring the natural beauty of the terrain and vegetation offering varying degrees of challenges that will provide a true test to each golfer. The greens are difficult because the course is built among the hills and it is Austin Heights’ trademark of a 3-tier green. The undulations and contouring that the course adds in make it very challenging indeed. To inject a little test to the game, there are many undulating fairways and each hole is sculptured from the natural land of the original hilly terrain. With its tight fairways and smallish greens good course management is essential in order to score well. A majestic Clubhouse perching strategically over the hilltop overlooking a 360 degrees panoramic view of the Austin Heights township offers clubhouse amenities and facilities namely a driving range, a sauna, a jacuzzi, AUSTIN HEIGHTS GOLF & HOTEL RESORT GOLFING 18 HOLES 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 a steam bath, a gymnasium, a swimming pool, a bowling alley, a tennis court, a cinema room, karaoke rooms, banquet and seminar rooms, cafes for casual and formal dining and a golfer’s terrace. Additionally, the 65 spacious suites with a scenic view of the golf course complete the resort as a perfect getaway for not just golfing, but weddings, celebrations, entertainment, recreation, team-building programmes and meetings as well. Austin Heights is truly an ideal golf vacation destination for the entire family.
15 Situated in Pontian, Kukup Golf Resort provides an 18-hole course spreading over 312 acres with a 20-bay driving range. Kukup Golf Resort is only 45 minutes’ drive from Singapore via the Second Link and 4 hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur. This par-72 course measuring 6,225 meters was designed by Japan’s premier golf course designer named Atsumi Kawase. The golf course is beautifully carved on undulating rolling terrain with many well-positioned bunkers and challenging water hazards making it a challenging course that will test your golfing skills. Kukup Golf Resort hosts 18 villas comprising 60 rooms, 5 ballrooms to cater to various functions, restaurants, a VIP lounge with music, karaoke and pool tables, a pro shop, and a jacuzzi & spa. The Sports & Recreational Centre offers facilities such as a lap pool, a lagoon pool, table tennis, tennis, squash & badminton courts, and a gymnasium. Kukup Golf Resort takes pride in its immaculately kept condition. Carefully laid to present a mild challenge but a thoroughly rejuvenating trip around the undulating hills and trees, the course is memorable because it leaves golfers refreshed after each round. It is a great retreat for those seeking golf, relaxation and seafood at the famous Kukup fishing village to savour the scrumptious seafood. Seafood lovers will be spoiled for choice of restaurants at Kukup sea front and at Pontian town. Tanjung Piai National Park (Taman Negara), Kukup Island, Kukup Fishing Village, Kelong Fish Farming, Bee Farm and Pineapple Farm and the tree-top houses are some of the local attractions awaiting visitors. KUKUP GOLF RESORT 18 HOLES 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
16 The Forest City Golf Resort is poised to be another prestigious championship golf course in Johor, making the state a premier golfing destination. Set to redefine golf tourism to embrace the “complete golf holiday experience” it is scheduled to open in July 2018. Being only a stone’s throw away from the Tuas Second Link, this golf resort is easily accessible by the international golfers, residents as well as visitors. The Forest City Golf Resort will be the new golf tourism icon in Johor comprising a 5-star hotel with a spectacular golf view, three stunning golf courses and a mix of low density residences comprising apartments and villas. The Forest City Golf Resort, offering a tri-course, with the first 18 holes jointlydesigned by the golfing legend Jack Nicklaus and his son Jack Nicklaus II as well as the renowned golf course designer Mr. Liang Guokun, is expected to further be a part of the bigger players in Johor to add more value to the state as a golf paradise. The first golf course, named Forest City Legacy Golf Course, would give golfers the experience and affordability that are not found in other golf courses. Jack Nicklaus worked the 9th and 18th greens around a hill and the golf course has beautiful views of the Pulai River. From a “playerbility’s” standpoint, the design of the golf course is unique as golfers would not be able to find anything like it in Singapore or Malaysia. Although the terrains are challenging, the golf course is built with the amateur golfer in mind, as well as for handicappers and professional golfers. The designs of the golf courses are meant to be challenging yet fun for all level of golf players. Large sandy waste and dune areas populated with native grasses and coconut palms offering a striking contrast from the platinum paspalum greens, trees and fairways will pose many challenges to the golfers. Facilities and amenities available include a dual-ended driving range with grass and trees, numerous target greens and practice bunkers, a comprehensive short game area, and a large putting green. FOREST CITY GOLF RESORT GOLFING 18 HOLES Information Address: Forest City Golf Hotel, Jalan Persiaran Golf 5, Forest City Golf Resort, 81550, Gelang Patah, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 535 2338
17 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. 9 HOLES 9 HOLES 9 HOLES 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. IMPIAN EMAS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB S.T. RHODES CLUB GUTHRIE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 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. 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 Address: Johore Labis Estate, P.O. Box 101, Chaah, 85400 Segamat, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 926 1209 / (+607) 926 3857 Mobile: (+6012) 711 3656 Email: [email protected] Address: Ladang Ulu Remis, P.O. Box 103, 81850 Layang-Layang, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+6017) 207 1671 Email: [email protected]
18 Daiman 18 Golf Club is located in Taman Johor Raya, Plentong, on the eastern part of Johor Bahru, and just a short drive away from the city centre. It is surrounded by housing estates with Giant Hypermart Plentong across the Pasir Gudang Highway. The golf course was built on former rubber and oil palm estates. Some of the rubber and oil palm trees were left on the landscape to provide a natural environmental setting to the golf course. Now a par-72 course measuring 5,837 metres from the back tees, the layout provides a good test of golf with oil palm tree-lined fairways trapped by numerous ponds and bunkers. This scenic golfing haven offers an ideal location for your rest and recreation. Both local and visiting golfers from abroad can truly gather and unwind within the serene surrounds and comfortable countryside settings of this reasonablypriced sporting destination. Daiman 18 currently does more than 3,000 rounds a month and boasts of having one of the best greens among the courses in Johor Bahru. The newlyrenovated clubhouse offers facilities that include a driving range, changing rooms, function rooms, a 1000-pax capacity banquet hall, and one of the best Chinese restaurants in Johor Bahru. The greens have been upgraded which now can reach up to 10.5 on the Stimpmeter and the bunker sands and drainage have also been improved for a much better golfing experience. One of the major changes made was the lengthening of Hole 7, which now plays as a par 4 instead of a par 3; thus bringing total par of 72. One of the unique features of the Clubhouse is the open area overlooking the golf course that is converted to a 16 –bay driving range at night with golfers hitting out to the 18th hole. The range has become a popular rendezvous for golfers living in the vicinity. DAIMAN 18 GOLF CLUB 18 HOLES GOLFING Information Address: No 18, Jalan Pesona, Taman Johor Jaya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 364 9770 / (+607) 364 9707 Fax: (+607) 364 9970 General Email: [email protected] Website: www.daiman.com.my
Address: Jalan Mengkibol, 86000 Kluang, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 771 8840 Fax: (+607) 772 1503 Email: [email protected] Address: KM 4, Jalan Genuang, P.O. Box C22 85007 Segamat, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 943 5968 Fax: (+607) 943 2301 Email: [email protected] 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] 19 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. 9 HOLES 9 HOLES 9 HOLES 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. KLUANG COUNTRY CLUB SEGAMAT COUNTRY CLUB BATU PAHAT GOLF CLUB 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.
20 Located 6 km from Batu Pahat, Johor, Bukit Banang Golf & Country Club is less than two and a half hours’ drive from Singapore and three and a half hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur. The 18-hole golf course is sprawled over a 165- acre site amidst lush tropical greenery offering a resplendent and scenic view which is an ideal recreational getaway for the avid golfers. Designed by Micheal Coates and Associates the course is suitable for golfers with different skills, offering them challenging yet not imposing golf experiences. The fairways are turfed with Bermuda Greenless Park and the greens with Tifdwarf to create a true putting surface. This course was truly designed to blend well with nature and the green freshness of the undulating fairways. The front nine, called the Valley Nine, plays into the hilly undulating terrains of Banang Mountain with scenic, winding fairways, and sloping greens. Scoring a par on the second hole par 5 is a satisfying feat because one has to conquer a large pond dissecting the fairway in the second shot. The eighth hole par 3 is memorable to many golfers for its sheer distance at 215 meters with the sloping green that is shielded by two strategically placed bunkers. The returning nine is referred to as the Lake Nine because of the presence of four lakes linked by a stream that cuts across most of the fairways. To handle the more demanding nature of Lake Nine, one has to possess accuracy and good course management. Amenities and facilities at the clubhouse include an Olympic-sized swimming pool, squash, badminton, tennis, and basketball courts, a gymnasium, sauna for both male and female, a 26-bay driving range, banquet rooms, restaurants, and more. BUKIT BANANG GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 18 HOLES GOLFING 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
Address: JKR 202, Jalan Timbalan, 84000 Muar, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+606) 952 1550 Fax: (+606) 952 1550 Email: [email protected] 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 21 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 Permas Jaya Bridge. 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. 9 HOLES 9 HOLES 9 HOLES 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. NAM HENG COUNTRY CLUB TANJONG EMAS GOLF CLUB PERMAS JAYA GOLF CLUB 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. Address: Nam Heng Estate, KB 502, 81909 Kota Tinggi, Johor Darul Ta’zim
22 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 portraying the richness of Johor’s natural beauty. Four interchangeable 9-hole loops which are the Hibiscus, Orchid, Sakura, and Bougainvillea all make up the 36 championship holes laid out on this former oil palm plantation. The Orchid Course is arguably the best of the four; challenging from start to finish, but likely to be toughgoing for high-handicappers. As for the Sakura Course, the terrains are constantly undulating and are lightly lined up with palm trees. The generally good-width fairways are sometimes flanked by large bunkers built from railway sleepers. A meandering creek ensures plenty of water hazards lie in wait in Sakura’s middle section. A few holes have creeks crossing the fairways twice, setting up some excellent risk-reward opportunities for longer hitters. Although Orchid / Hibiscus are the strongest combination the Orchid / Sakura will provide low and midhandicappers with an excellent and testing outing. Poresia Country Club is a full service golfing facility featuring a swimming pool, a pro shop, restaurants, a driving range and other amenities. PORESIA GOLF CLUB & RESORT 36 HOLES GOLFING Information Address: KM 36, Mukim Tanjong Kupang, 81550 Gelang Patah, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 558 1733 / (+607) 557 8812 Fax: (+607) 559 1813 General Email: [email protected] Website: www.poresia.com.sg
23 Located at the southern-most tip of Johor, at the source of the tranquil Santi River, Sebana Golf & Marina 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 golf course built by retaining as much as possible the natural terrain of the site, it also has natural greenery of lush trees resembling a secondary forest to create a challenging golfing leisure. SEBANA GOLF & MARINA RESORT 18 HOLES Information Address: Lot PTD 2940, Mukim Pengerang, 81600 Pengerang, Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: (+607) 826 6655 / (+607) 826 6688 Fax: (+607) 826 6622 Email: [email protected] Website: www.sebanacove.com
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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
www.jgta.org.my JOHOR MALAYSIA’S Golf Paradise