Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2010

Yes, it’s that time of the year again, when Christmas spreads its joy to everyone regardless of race and creed :-)

We at Golf Malaysia Magazine would like to take this opportunity to wish all our Christian readers a blessed Christmas and to everyone: happy holidays! For those who are travelling during this festive period, have a safe journey and a good trip. For those who are taking off till the next year (lucky you!), enjoy your days off and come back next year recharged and refreshed.

Of course, we would also want to wish everyone HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010! May the coming year be even more fantastic for each of us. Oh, and do check out our exciting Golf Malaysia January 2010 issue ya!!

Are You Game for the Champion of the Champions?

Yes, the much awaited Golf Malaysia Champion of Champions Championship will be here again, soon. At this exciting event, the nation's top amateurs vie for the title: Champion of the Champions!

Don't miss this nail-biting battle! Mark your calendar: it's happening on 26 to 27 March 2010 at the lovely Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort in Perak. See you there! :-)

Dreams Come True at Impian

Wan Kamarulzaman Wan Chik, Nordin Amat Dewan, Mohamad Rodzi Sulaiman and Jessie Teng Kim Heng all wore the champion’s crown at the second leg of the 2009 Golf Malaysia Aces of Aces Championship, held at the lush 6,254-metre Impian Golf & Country Club in Kajang, Selangor, on 11 November.

In the A Division (handicaps 0 to 12), Wan Kamarulzaman Wan Chik (6) accumulated 20 Stableford (Modified) points on the Golden Nine and another 19 points on the Negara Nine to dislodge defending champion Michael Lee Thiam Soon (8) by one point.

The elated Wan Kamarulzaman, who walked away with the champion’s trophy, a Nikon Laser Rangefinder worth RM1,588, a treatment voucher at Men’s Skin Centres, a bottle of Black ‘99’ Whisky plus an invite to attend the Extended DISC (Malaysia) workshop, declared: “Everything went well for me today – all my shots were ‘champion’ shots. I’ve been playing for 20 years now, and this is my second time in the Ace of Aces Championship. In my first outing, I was third. I came today with no practice rounds, and just played [the round]. My game was just average, with two birdies. I guess I must have the champion’s luck!”

Lee, although slightly disappointed for failing to defend his title, was satisfied with his game as his game has declined lately. “I didn’t have any practice round before coming to the tournament either, but I still got by with two birdies and a lot of pars. I really enjoyed myself today,” he shared.

The A Division winners: (from left) Hen Yet Keow (fifth), Ahad Abdul (fourth), Allan Lim (third), Michael Lee (second) and Wan Kamarulzaman Wan Chik (champion)

In the B Division (handicaps 13 to 18), Nordin Amat Dewan (18) wrestled the crown from Alex CF Kee (15) and Wan Mohd Kamal (19), on countback, when all three carded 37 points.

Nordin, who credited his win to his great tee shots and a good caddie, disclosed: “Although I have won prizes at many amateur events since I started golf in 2003, I have never become the champion. Today I get my first champion win. The feeling is great!”

Meanwhile, the third placed Wan Mohd Kamal thought he played his best golf game ever in this leg of Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship. He confirmed this with gusto: “Although it rained earlier in the morning, my game was solid from start till end. My ball never went haywire at all today – it managed to find the fairways and the greens even from the rough. This is my third time coming in third in the B Division. I am not satisfied until I am number one, so watch out: I’ll be back next year!”

The B Division winners: (from left) Perry G (fifth), Wan Mohd Kamal (third), Alex CF Kee (second) and Nordin Amat Dewan (champion)

In the C Division category, which was for golfers with a handicap of 19 to 24, Mohamad Rodzi Sulaiman (20) amassed 35 points to beat R Muralitharan Rajagopal (22) and Danial Badderon (20) by one point.

He said: “I’d rate my game today as being usual: I played par golf today but not to my handicap. For the first few holes, I played double because I couldn’t adapt to fast green speed. After that, my game was alright even though not fantastic. But then again, I am so happy to be the champion! This is my fourth outing in Ace of Aces Championship, with my last ‘podium’ finish being second at Kota Permai in 2007.”

Muralitharan, who took second on countback, felt he didn’t play that well. “I am now feeling very excited and very surprised. This is my second Ace of Aces tournament and my second time playing at Impian, and I got second! I’m really happy with this win.”

In the Ladies’ category, Jessie Teng (20) surged to the top when she returned 37 points, two points ahead of her nearest contender Thoo Lee Wah (17) and three points ahead of Ann Tan (13) and Norlida Anis (11).

The Ladies' category winners: (from left) Jun Young Sook (fifth), Norlida Anis (fourth), Ann Tan (third), Thoo Lee Wah (second) and Jessie Teng (champion)


All participants also had a chance to win FusionExcel products in the FusionExcel Novelty events. Both Hamdan Nordin and the long-hitting Lim Bu Keong were rewarded with a FusionExcel pendant worth RM595 each for their effort on Hole No. 14, which were a distance of 2.9 metres to the bunker and a commanding 253.4-metre drive in the Nearest-to-Bunker and Longest Drive race respectively.

In the FusionExcel Nearest-to-Pin battle on Hole No. 2, Leonard Tan got his golf ball 2.3 metres to the pin to also win a FusionExcel pendant. Not to be outdone, Abdul Malek Husin also grabbed a FusionExcel pendant when he sent his ball to a distance of 3.2 metres to the pin in another Nearest-to-Pin contest on Hole No. 7.

A FusionExcel demonstration by the sifu

Lui Seng sent his ball six centimetres to the line on Hole No. 5 to win a FusionExcel bracelet worth RM625, while Khuganesh Kerisnan took home a FusionExcel flask worth RM630 for placing his ball 0.73 metres to the pond, also on Hole No. 5.

For participants who did not win in their respective categories and in the Novelty events, several rounds of lucky draws managed to put a big smile on their face, as they had another chance to win other lucrative prizes, including two Stay-and-Play packages for two at the luxurious Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort in Siem Reap, Cambodia, valued at USD540 (about RM1,890).

Let's drink Isomax for some extra hydration on the course!

Golf Malaysia Magazine thanks all the co-sponsors of this edition of Ace of Aces Championship for their generous support and contributions: ONLY Golf apparel, Heineken, Nikon Malaysia, Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars, SunPlay sunblock lotion, FusionExcel, Extended DISC (Malaysia), Black ‘99’ Whisky, Men’s Skin Centres, Svenson Hair Care, MS Golf, Isomax isotonic drink and Daisy Springs mineral water.

Nikon Laser Rangefinder makes it so easy to see where I should hit to!

Every participant in this exclusive championship organised by Golf Malaysia Magazine for hole-in-one achievers also went home with a bagful of goodies, including packs of Jasmine rice, Dolmio Pasta Sauce, Drinho’s HomeSOY, Shokubutsu Active Sports Shower Foam, Proviton softgel capsules and Sloan’s Liniment, courtesy of magnanimous championship contributors.

Snapshots from Golf Malaysia's Ace of Aces Championship (Zone 1)

Participants queuing up during registration

"Wow, it's so clear with Nikon!"
Participants checking out the all-new Nikon Laser Rangefinder 350G during the first leg of the 2009 Golf Malaysia's Ace of Aces Championship.

Yummy Nature Valley is good for our golf game!

Yam seng-ing with our favourite isotonic drink, Isomax!

A demonstration by FusionExcel...Awesome!

Get a stylish Chiro Band from these guys for your overall health!

Four Aces to the Fore at Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship 2009 (Zone 1)

The quartet of Mohd Fazly Rosli, Tan Boon Him, Rozailan Kamil Mohd Taib and Annie Yew Lee Ling beat a full field of holes-in-one participants to become champions at the first leg of the 2009 Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship on 1 November.

Mohd Fazly Rosli (12) edged out Soon Yaw Keong (11) and K Perumal (8) on countback to emerge champion of the A Division (handicaps 0 to 12). The trio each posted 38 Stableford (modified) points on the 6,154-metre Bukit Kemuning Golf & Country Resort in Kota Kemuning, Selangor.

“I am very happy to win today. I’d like to thank my friend K Perumal for this win, because he was the one who motivated and encouraged me to play well,” said the elated Mohd Fazly, who walked away with the champion’s trophy, a Nikon Laser Rangefinder worth RM1,588, a treatment voucher at Men’s Skin Centres and a bottle of Black ‘99’ Whisky. He also gained a seat to the Extended DISC (Malaysia) workshop.

Soon, who hails from Sabah, flew to Kuala Lumpur just to take part in the Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship. He shared: “There are so many good players today, so I really didn’t expect I’d be the runner-up. When it was announced that I am the runner-up, I was just so happy!”


The fun-filled Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship, which is organised auspiciously on every 1st and 11th November, is open exclusively for golfers who have achieved an ace on Malaysian courses. Between July 1986 and October 2009, there are more than 15,900 holes-in-one recorded at over 207 golf courses in the country and registered with Golf Malaysia Magazine’s Hole-in-One Club, the only known archive for ace achievers in Malaysia.

The first leg of this championship, which is played under the Stableford System 36 (modified) scoring format, took place on 1 November at Bukit Kemuning Golf & Country Resort in Kota Kemuning, Selangor. The second leg will be held at Impian Golf & Country Club in Kajang on 11 November.

Winners of the first leg of the 2009 Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship, held at Bukit Kemuning Golf & Country Resort on 1 November 2009

In the B Division (handicaps 13 to 18), Tan Boon Him (16) wrestled the crown from Ariff Mitik when they both carded 37 points. The visibly joyous Tan, who has played in three editions of Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship, said: “Although this is only my second time playing in Bukit Kemuning, I birdied my first hole! I am really happy I won the B Division. As I am from Johor, I made this trip to KL just to play in this championship. I guess my win is well worth the journey!”

Ten other golfers jostled for prizes in the B Division when they each managed 36 points. Upon countback, Mohd Afrizan Husain (16), Dato’ Shamsuar Mahmood (18) and Chan Kam Choon (14) were placed third, fourth and fifth respectively.

“I am happy with my game today, as I used the Nikon Laser Rangefinder [on loan from Nikon Malaysia] during my round. It was very effective! I could see clearly where I should hit to, and I’m getting my own Nikon Laser Rangefinder right after this tournament!” the excited Dato’ Shamsuar revealed.

In the C Division category, which was for golfers with a handicap of 19 to 24, Rozailan Kamil Mohd Taib (20) amazed himself when he grabbed the top spot after amassing 37 points.

“I didn’t expect that I’d win today as I didn’t have any practice before coming to this event today. In fact, I just checked out from the hospital two weeks ago after undergoing treatment for my back pain,” shared Rozailan.

Thum Choy Cheen (23), who battled See Joo Hock (19) for the runner-up spot in the C Division after both accumulated 36 points, thought that the putting green at Bukit Kemuning GCR was very fast. “My flight mate, Alex Chuah, and I kept encouraging each other to think positive throughout the round. This paid off, as I am second while he is fifth in the C Division!”

In the Ladies’ category, another countback was needed to break the tie when Annie Yew Lee Ling (21) and Ashvin Kaur A/P Harbaksh Singh (12) both returned 35 points. Upon countback, Yew was awarded the crown.

MS Golf is the official ladies' apparel sponsor for the 2009 Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship.

“I am a bit frustrated to get second. Last year I was also the runner-up in this event [held at SSG Beringin Golf Club in Lembah Beringin]. I guess it’s just my luck!” lamented Ashvin.

All participants also had a chance to win FusionExcel pendants worth RM595 each in the Novelty events. Rosdi Haron won the FusionExcel Nearest-to-Bunker prize when he sent his golf ball 2.35 metres to the bunker, while Ong Chee Chang’s powerful 227 metres on the 375-metre Hole No. 4 gave him the FusionExcel Longest Drive honour. Ong also won the FusionExcel Nearest-to-Pond prize when he sent his ball 11 metres to the pond on Hole No. 10.

The FusionExcel Nearest-to-Pin race was won by Ariff Mitik when his golf ball landed 11 feet 2 inches from the pin on Hole No. 6. Next, the FusionExcel Nearest-to-Line honour was taken by Mohd Khairi, who swung to victory when he sent his tee shot 0.4 centimetres to the line on Hole No. 10. Amidst all the fun, however, no one managed to shoot an ace to bring home the all-new Panasonic Panaboard.

Participants who did not manage any wins in their respective categories and in the Novelty events had another chance of winning other lucrative prizes during the lucky draws. Prizes include two Stay-and-Play packages for two at the luxurious Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort in Siem Reap, Cambodia, valued at USD540 (about RM1,890).

Golf Malaysia Magazine thanks all the co-sponsors of this edition of Ace of Aces Championship for their generous support and contributions: ONLY Golf apparel, Heineken, Nikon Malaysia, Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars, SunPlay sunblock lotion, FusionExcel, Extended DISC (Malaysia), Black ‘99’ Whisky, Men’s Skin Centres, Svenson Hair Care, MS Golf, Isomax isotonic drink and Daisy Springs mineral water.

Every participant in this exclusive championship organised by Golf Malaysia Magazine for hole-in-one achievers also went home with a bagful of goodies, including packs of Jasmine rice, Dolmio Pasta Sauce, Drinho’s HomeSOY, Shokubutsu Active Sports Shower Foam, Proviton softgel capsules and Sloan’s Liniment, courtesy of magnanimous championship contributors.

Goodies from our generous championship contributors

Test the Nikon Laser Rangefinder at Ace of Aces 2009!

Ten (10) units of Nikon Laser Rangefinders will be available for loan during the upcoming Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship 2009 on 1st November at Bukit Kemuning Golf & Country Resort in Shah Alam and on 11th November at Impian Golf & Country Club. This will be available on a first come, first served basis.

If you are one of those who have signed up for Ace of Aces 2009, be sure to enquire about this during registration.

See you there!

Good News for Ace of Aces 2009 Participants!

The Rule Committee has approved the use of distance-measuring devices, such as the Nikon Laser Rangefinder 350G, in the upcoming 2009 Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship.


However, distance-measuring devices that also gauge gradient, wind speed, temperature etc., are not allowed. The player will be in breach of Rule 14-3, and subject to disqualification, regardless of whether any such additional function is actually used.

Calling All Hole-in-One Golfers

Come Join the Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship!

The euphoria of achieving a hole-in-one can only be rivalled by a tournament specially dedicated to ace makers: Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship!

This unique championship is the world’s only event where the entry requirement is having scored an ace. The first leg of this exciting event will be held on 1 November 2009 at Bukit Kemuning Golf & Country Resort in Kota Kemuning, while the next leg is at Impian Golf & Country Club in Kajang on 11 November 2009. Among the current 15,800 ace golfers registered with Golf Malaysia’s Hole-in-One Club, only 280 will make the field on a first come, first served basis.



The tournament, currently into its 20th year, is played under the Stableford System 36 (Modified) format of competition in four categories. For men, they will fight for the crown in A Division (handicaps 0 to 12), B Division (handicaps 13 to 18) or C Division (handicaps 19 to 24). The fourth category is for the ladies with handicaps 0 to 30.

Bukit Kemuning Golf & Country Resort, the host for the first leg, has taken a major approach in making their facility a haven for golfers. “My team and I are excited to show the Ace of Aces participants how grand our facility is. The greens are rolling smooth and true and in tip top condition,” offers Steven Eng, the club manager.

Coveted trophies, along with attractive prizes such as Nikon Laser Rangefinders, Nature Valley hampers, FusionExcel accessories, luxury time pieces and others, will go to each victorious golfer. And to make sure no one goes home empty-handed, a lucky draw will be conducted, with many delightful prizes awaiting those lucky golfers. All participants can also look forward to an impressive goody bags loaded with ONLY Golf fashionable attire, nutritious Jasmine rice, soothing Eagle muscular balm, energising Proviton, refreshing Shokubutsu body wash, sumptuous Dolmio pasta sauce, healthy Drinho soya milk, tantalising Black ‘99’ Whisky, Sloan’s, Nature Valley crunchy granola bars and many more.

The Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship first began in 1989, with 380 ace achievers participating in three legs. With each passing year, the event kept snowballing with each legs being fully subscribed. This year’s tournament will be even more special, as the use of electronic measuring device such as a handheld rangefinder is allowed for the first time in the competition to measure distances between various points.

“Thanks to modern technology, essential distance to the green can be measured using the basic rangefinders. We will loan ten units of the Nikon Laser Rangefinder 350G to the participants, based on a first come, first served basis and on per flight basis,” says Juliana Cheah, the organiser and CEO of Golf (Malaysia) Publications Sdn Bhd, the company that publishes the renowned Golf Malaysia Magazine.


Among the official sponsors of this year’s edition of Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces Championship are ONLY Golf, Heineken, Nature Valley, SunPlay, FusionExcel, Extended DISC (Malaysia), Black ‘99’ Whisky, Men’s Skin Centres, Svenson Hair Care, MS Golf, Nikon, Isomax and Daisy Springs.


If you would like to participate and be a part of this exciting event, do call Golf Malaysia at 603-7880 5060/13 or fax your entry form to 603-7880 5171. You can also send an e-mail to golfmsia@golfmalaysia.com.my!


About Golf Malaysia’s Hole-in-One Club

Golfers who shoot a hole-in-one in any of the Malaysian or Brunei golf courses are eligible to register with Golf Malaysia’s Hole-in-One Club. Their names, once registered, will appear in Golf Malaysia’s Hole-in-One Roll of Honour, which is the only known systematic list of hole-in-one achievements in Malaysia.

These ace golfers will also receive a bagful of sponsored gifts and a Hole-in-One Certificate to commemorate their achievement. The best part of being a Golf Malaysia’s Hole-in-One Club member is they are also automatically eligible to play in the annual Golf Malaysia Ace of Aces championship.

Scenic Seaside Golf at Phokeethra Krabi

Text and Photos by Lee Lai Heng

When I stepped onto the tee of the first hole, a vista of lush greenery and sparkling azure sea opened up before my eyes. I closed my eyes for a second, drinking in the fresh breeze from the Andaman Sea that playfully twirled my hair, while the applause of waves when they meet the white sandy beach greeted my ears…Fantabulous: I must be in paradise... :-)


Actually, I was at Phokeethra Golf Krabi, a stunning nine-hole layout located adjacent to the luxurious Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort. Situated on the edge of the beautiful Klong Muang beach and extending towards the foot of the Naga Head Mountain, Phokeethra Golf Krabi offers not only exciting golf but also breathtaking mountain and sea views. This par-28, 1,367-yard walking course winds its way through lakes and streams as it climbs along a hillside slope, becoming progressively complex and interesting. Along the way, you’ll find lots of water hazards, ambushing bunkers and tough putting surfaces. Although this is a nine-hole challenge, believe me, it really does test your accuracy and skills!

HOLE 1: par-3, 120 yards (white), 113 yards (red)

The opening hole, according to the scorecard, is the easiest with an index rating of 9. From the tee box, it’s a pretty straight journey to the green, but after that you will face a real challenge, as the whole putting surface contains hard-to-read, tricky amounts of break. You will definitely need accuracy here.

HOLE 2: par-3, 89 yards (white), 83 yards (red)

The tee box of Hole 2, the shortest hole of the layout, is the nearest to the beach. If you are also a sea person, like yours truly, you’ll definitely get distracted by the inviting sights and sounds of the Andaman Sea. My advice: forget the sea for a while and concentrate, since wind is a factor here and you will need accurate approach shots, as the crowned green causes ‘fractionally off’ approaches to fall away from their target.

Hole 3: par-3, 135 yards (white), 110 yards (red)

The picturesque Hole 3 presents a formidable test, as a shiny lake sits in front of its charming green. Choose your club wisely on this index-3 hole, as you not only need to carry the water, but also keep the ball on the putting surface. Three bunkers stood at attention, ready to catch those who overshot. Once on the green, however, take some time to admire the view: it’s certainly worth it!

HOLE 4: par-4, 265 yards (white), 245 yards (red)

The longest hole on the course gives you a chance to show off your driving power. Also the second toughest, this dogleg-right challenges you to cross a stream before you can arrive at its elevated green, with the Naga Head Mountain as its backdrop. Do watch out for its gradual elevation, which can make you feel as if you’re putting for the first time.

HOLE 5: par-3, 152 yards (white), 142 yards (red)

After battling Hole 4, you’ll arrive at this beautiful uphill test. Water crosses the front of its fairway, while the lush Naga Head Mountain presents an impressive ‘wall’ on your left. Go straight forth and you should land safely on the green. If you go slightly left, a bunker catches you. If you go slightly right, another bunker awaits! If you’re on and you think you’re safe…well, think again. The contoured and rolling surface of this uphill green requires a large amount of accuracy, guaranteeing you a real putting challenge.

A delightful flight of stone steps will lead you down from the green of Hole 5 to the tee of the sixth.

HOLE 6: par-3, 157 yards (white), 151 yards (red)

Enjoy the view as you descend the stone steps connecting the two holes, but do start planning for carefully evaluated ball placement – you will need that in order to succeed on this downhill hole. A vertical drop of more than twenty feet can trick the eye, so choose your club carefully. And remember to be wary of the three majestic bunkers guarding the green on each of the three sides.

HOLE 7: par 3, 149 yards (white), 132 yards (red)

Before you tee off from the seventh hole, look up and behold the magnificent seaside view before you. Then, with this splendid image still in your mind, swing away and keep up that happy mood. Why? Well, water and bunkers protect half of its green so this is a real ‘risk and reward’ challenge: it’s your gamble! And you should know that the pin is on the right of this green…that makes life more interesting, doesn’t it?

HOLE 8: par-3, 130 yards (white), 120 yards (red)

Bunkers aplenty here on Hole 8! These sandy contraptions and the swaying trees combine to present yet another optical challenge, as your approach shot may seem shorter than it really is.

Once you’re through to Hole 8’s slightly downhill green, you’ll be faced with another interesting putting test. Good putters should have an added advantage here.

HOLE 9: par-3, 170 yards (white), 162 yards (red)

The expression ‘save the best for last’ rings true here. The last hole of the layout, which is also the course’s longest par-3, is branded with an index rating of 1. With the Andaman Sea behind you as you tee off, wind might help carry your shot over the water guarding the right side of the green and the bunker sitting right in front of the green. If you manage to clear these major hazards, don’t get too excited. The complex deck green also ensures a tricky putt if you finish on the wrong level!



And the Bottom Line is...
Play this relatively short layout once and I’ll bet you’ll return to the resort with a shake of the head, a smile across your face and a burning desire to replay it. Even writing this review made this writer want to hop on a plane and fly to Krabi right away, just for another go on this course! :-P

A magnificent view of the Sofitel Krabi Golf & Spa Resort from the green of the 9th

Clubs Demo (Titleist & Cobra)

The entire range of Titleist and Cobra clubs can be tested during demo events, to be held across Malaysia at the following dates and venues:


EAST MALAYSIA
1st to 4th Oct - Likas Driving Range, KK @ 10.00 am to 10.00 pm

NORTHERN
8th to 11th Oct - Royal Perak Driving Range @ 10.00 am to 9.00 pm

CENTRAL
13th Oct - Sunway Driving Range @ 6.00 pm - 9.00 pm
15th Oct - Bukit Jalil Driving Range @ 5.30 pm - 8.30 pm

SOUTHERN
20th Oct - Permas Jaya @ 5.30 pm - 8.30 pm
21st Oct - Starhill GCC @ 5.00 pm - 8.00 pm
22nd Oct - Impian Emas Driving Range @ 5.00 pm - 7.00 pm

EAST COAST
21st Oct - KDRP, Rantau Petronas @ 5.00 pm - 7.00 pm
22nd Oct - Royal Kuantan GCC @ 6.00 pm - 8.00 pm
27th Oct - KT Golf Resort @ 5.30 pm - 8.30 pm

See you there!

Sofitel Krabi: Pearl of the Andaman Sea

Text and Photos by Lee Lai Heng

If you are looking for a serene, relaxing stay at a seaside resort with your family for the upcoming year-end holiday, yes, complete with a golf course to relieve that golfing itch of yours, then Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort in Krabi, Thailand, should be at the top of your list.

Tucked away along the relatively quiet Klong Muang Beach, which is only a short distance from the bustling Ao Nang Beach, the lavish Sofitel Krabi exudes opulence and warmth with ease. Its 276 luxurious rooms, most with a large balcony affording stunning views of the limestone islands Krabi is so famous for, have natural wooden teak floors and adorned with lush exotic Thai furnishings. And everywhere you go, the friendly and helpful Sofitel staff greet you with ‘Sawadee ka’ and a pleasant smile.

This elegant resort certainly has everything you’d ever want for a tranquil holiday: great rooms, excellent service, exciting seaside golf and a relaxing ambience.

Views of the inviting room, in which posh and simplicity blended tastefully for a luxurious, exotic Thai feel

Breathtaking views of the sparkling Andaman Sea right from your balcony



Looking for some oceanic adventures? Make your way to the Hong Islands or venture further to Phi Phi Islands for an exquisite snorkelling experience or an invigorating kayak ride, or simply take a refreshing walk on the beach with soft, fine white sand.



A return trip to Hong Islands on this delightful private Sofitel speed boat is complimentary for all resort guests :-)



Take a dip in this fantastic pool that boasts 7,000 square metres of swimming space. Yup, it is the largest swimming pool in the Kingdom of Thailand!



For a variety of cocktails, juices and refreshments while chilling out at the marvellous pool, just swim up to the Koh Poda pool bar.



Do stop by the Sala Thai for some awesome views of the resort and its outstanding swimming pool.



The Maya Restaurant offers not only a wide variety of mouth-watering contemporary and international cuisine, but also friendly staff with great smiles!



Delight in scrumptious gastronomic offerings from all over the Kingdom at the White Lotus, complete with a plush Thai ambience.



A soothing spa or a traditional Thai massage at Le Spa is the perfect way to end your day.



Need to answer an urgent business e-mail or send an important proposal in the middle of your holidays? No worries, the Business Centre boasts broadband connectivity plus other office necessities, such as photocopying, printing and fax facilities.



Don’t forget to head over to the Health Club for a workout at the Sofitel Gym, after which you can immerse in rejuvenating sessions at the steam and sauna rooms in the club. You can also catch complimentary yoga, pilates, fitball and tai qi classes here on a daily basis.



The charming Hemingway Club is Sofitel’s concept library: a place to enjoy a good book, a game of Scrabble and, yup, exclusive Cuban Cigars, premium whisky, cognac or brandy.



Life is certainly magnifique at Sofitel Krabi!

P/S: A peek at the Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf Course will be coming soon, so do watch this space! For reservations at the resort, e-mail to rsvn@sofitelphokeethrakrabi.com or call +66 75 627800 for more information.

Play FREE Golf!!

Take advantage of our special 'Golf for FREE' programme that allows you to play four (4) rounds of FREE Golf at some of the great Malaysian courses, simply by subscribing to Golf Malaysia Magazine.

Call us at 03-7880 5060 or 03-7880 5013 to subscribe. You can also send us an e-mail at golfmsia@golfmalaysia.com.my, subscribe online at: www.golfmalaysia.com.my or get your form HERE! Please state 'Free Golf Programme' as your e-mail subject :)

The FREE golf vouchers are set as follows:

OFFER 1
Palm Resort GC (Johor)
Bukit Jawi GR (Penang)
SSG Beringin GC (Selangor)
Seremban 3 Paradise Valley GR (Negeri Sembilan)

OFFER 2
Daiman 18 GC (Johor)
Nexus Resort Karambunai GC (Kota Kinabalu, Sabah)
Port Klang GR (Selangor)
Kluang GC (Johor)

OFFER 3
Orchard GR (Johor)
Dalit Bay GR (Kota Kinabalu, Sabah)
Perangsang Templer GC (Selangor)
Lanjut GC (Pahang)

OFFER 4
Tawau Hot Spring GC (Tawau, Sabah)
Bukit Kemuning GR (Selangor)
Tanjong Puteri GR (Johor)
Sigalong GC (Sabah)

OFFER 5
Eastwood Valley GR (Miri, Sarawak)
Sandakan GC (Sandakan, Sabah)
Royal Johor CC (Johor)
Kajang Hill GC (Selangor)


Terms & Conditions:

• Reservations required within 72 hours of requested play
• Buggy required (fee not included)
  
• Each of these vouchers cannot be swapped for vouchers for another course and are not exchangeable for cash.
• The validity of these vouchers cannot be extended upon expiry.
• These vouchers are subject to changes in the event of any unforeseen circumstances.
• Whilst all care is taken for delivery of the vouchers to the subscribers, Golf (Malaysia) Publications Sdn Bhd is NOT responsible for any loss and damages.

Golf for FREE* at These Courses!

Subscribe to Golf Malaysia magazine and get four (4) FREE* vouchers to golf at these lovely courses!

How to go about it? Just download the subscription form here, fill it up and return it to Golf Malaysia (together with your payment ya!) and wait for your vouchers to arrive at your doorstep! This limited offer is on a first come, first served basis, so do hurry


JOHOR
Daiman 18 Golf Course
Looking for a round of enjoyable golf in Johor? Look no further than the Daiman 18 Golf Course. This layout is situated in the sprawling township of Johor Jaya along the Pasir Gudang-Johor Bahru Highway. It offers an ideal location for both local and visiting golfers from across the causeway, in a comfortable countryside setting.
Its two-level clubhouse offers facilities such as changing rooms, function rooms, swimming pool and a Chinese restaurant.

Kluang Country Club
One of the pioneer nine-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.

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Orchard Golf & Country Resort
Located 15 minutes from the township of Kulai, Orchard Golf & Country Resort features a par-72 course designed to allow players to play through a landscape of swaying coconut trees and local fruit trees that add beauty to its gentle rolling terrains.
For challenge, golfers face strategically placed fresh-water ponds and sand bunkers.

Palm Resort Golf & Country Club
Great golf in the form of 54 holes awaits golfers who visit Palm Resort Golf & Country Club. And, since it takes at least two days to play the 18-hole Allamanda, Cempaka and Melati tracts, the resort is ready to have you stay in comfortable, restful accommodation.
Conveniently located adjacent to Johor’s Senai Airport, Palm Resort is considered to have some of the best par-threes in the region, with one having what may be the largest sand bunker in Malaysia.

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Royal Johor Country Club
Royal Johor Country Club was constructed in the 60s after much persuasion by some enthusiastic government servants. Today, this private club has become the ideal place to test one’s skill, both physically and mentally.
Combining the traditions and features of both old and new, RJCC presents players with a distinctly different golfing experience that is centred on wide open fairways, mature trees and undulating greens. You can now enjoy a round at this restricted-to-member-play course, which is one of Malaysia’s most difficult and challenging golf courses.

Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort
If you like magical routing, Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort is a must for you. Just minutes from Johor city, the resort offers outstanding accommodation plus three different, yet similarly breathtaking championship golf courses.
Each of the par-72 layouts – the Valley, the Plantation and the Straits – snakes through rolling hills that were once an oil palm plantation to test the golfing skills of both amateurs and pros alike.

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PAHANG
Lanjut Golden Beach Golf Club
Located along 3.5 kilometres of the sandy beaches of Kuala Rompin, Lanjut Golden Beach Golf Club poses a challenging test of golf in an aesthetically pleasing setting. Its 18-hole layout is routed over gentle, undulating terrain without disturbing the natural beauty of the surrounding land and nearby water.


PENANG
Bukit Jawi Golf Resort
Bukit Jawi Golf Resort has 36 holes of championship golf that can mesmerise golfers, as its mix of holes dogleg through lines of palm trees and scenic water hazards.
It is also known for its well-kept putting surfaces. This superb golf paradise is a mere 45 minutes from Penang International Airport.

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SELANGOR
Bukit Kemuning Golf & Country Resort
From the first tee to the 18th green, Bukit Kemuning Golf & Country Resort presents a challenging yet player-friendly experience.
Sprawled over 150 acres of lush greenery, its generous fairways are well-defined stripes bordered by heavy rough. It is a course not to be taken lightly.

Perangsang Templer Golf Club
Perangsang Templer Golf Club sits on magnificent terrains surrounded by a beautiful landscape filled with towering hills that includes the striking, gigantic Bukit Takun. Its putting greens can be a tricky test as the nearby towering terrain plays tricks with your green reading ability.
Lush common Bermuda carpets the fairways and rough with Tifdwarf Bermuda hybrid for the greens and tee boxes.

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Port Klang Golf Resort
This seaside golf course is located near the North Port in Klang. Built on 150 acres of reclaimed land, the 18-hole tract offers view of the nearby sea. Being so close to the sea, its fairways are generally flat, thus plenty of sand bunkers, ponds and the winds off the water combine to increase its challenge. This is one of those courses that reward strategy play over sheer power.

SSG Beringin Golf Club
This course, which sprawls over 145 acres of Lembah Beringin, is a traditional links design with natural terrain and signature mounding that has all the challenges to make golfers work extra hard when it comes to keeping their golf ball in play.

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NEGERI SEMBILAN
Seremban 3 Paradise Valley Golf Resort
This 18-hole layout is easily accessible from the Seremban-Port Dickson Highway. Seremban 3 Paradise Valley is divided into “The Valley Nine” and “The Paradise Nine”.
Both of the tests rise and fall over natural undulations as they afford golfers incredible views of scenic ridges and sweeping valleys.


SABAH
Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club
Winding its way through the many lakes, wetlands, mangrove swamps and the meandering Tambalang River, the 18 holes at Dalit Bay provide a supreme test for all golfers who play here.
Strategic bunkering, well-contoured fairways and subtle greens further emphasise the need for sensible play during your round!

Sandakan Golf & Country Club
Sandakan’s 18-hole course is all about blending beauty and challenge.
It is a classic-styled tract that features small, undulating greens that are well bunkered, so bring your A-game.

Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai
One of the finest courses in Malaysia, Nexus Karambunai sits on the scenic Karambunai Peninsula that is just a short drive from Kota Kinabalu and about half an hour from the Kota Kinabalu International Airport.
This award-winning resort has much to offer when one is not enjoying the fairways and greens of this well-designed and modern 18-hole, par-72 layout set between mountain and the sea.

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Sigalong Golf & Country Club
Located in the district of Semporna, about 47 kilometres from the airport, this 18-hole layout and its country-style clubhouse is surrounded by an oil palm plantation.
The rustic setting of this golf course and the scenic views that abound make it a must-play when in Tawau.

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Tawau Golf Club – Hot Spring
This course literally sits on an unspoiled mountain slope and is one of the highest golf courses found in this region.
Since it opened for play in 2007, the par-72 Hot Spring Golf Course has won rave reviews from everyone who has played it. The challenging tract definitely offers eighteen unique holes that is, perhaps, the toughest test in all of Malaysia.


SARAWAK
Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club
This course is one of Sarawak’s hidden gems when it comes to golf, so discover it and you will not be disappointed. While it is located only five minutes from the Miri Airport and approximately five kilometres from Miri’s township, it is still a part of a secondary forest.
Eastwood Valley, which is grassed with Seasaw Paspalium, features several areas of open terrain that are complemented by an abundance of wooded areas, shallow sand bunkers and generous-sized lakes.

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