Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: Zainal Mohammad Shah, a veteran figure in golf in Southeast Asia, has been appointed as a Senior Advisor to the Asian Golf Industry Federation (AGIF).

In his role, Zainal will represent the AGIF, the region’s umbrella golfing body, in Malaysia.

During more than 40 years in the golf industry, Zainal has been involved in a variety of high-profile roles from managing five courses in West Malaysia to consulting and acting as a distributor for reputable local and international companies associated with golf buggies, turf maintenance equipment and chemicals and fertilisers.

As an Advisor to the AGIF in Malaysia, Zainal will seek to recruit new members and work on expanding the educational programmes currently offered by the Federation in club management and turfgrass management. He will also assist the AGIF in conducting research on the golf market in Malaysia.

Eric Lynge, the AGIF’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “Zainal is widely respected in Southeast Asian golfing circles. We’re grateful for the ad hoc support he’s been able to give us in recent years. Now that we’ve formalised our relationship, we look forward to his increased involvement in the development and operation of our Certificate in Greenkeeping and Certified Club Manager education programmes.

“With Zainal’s support, we’re certain we can establish a stronger base for the AGIF in Malaysia and bring a wealth of knowledge and educational programmes to support Malaysia’s expanding golf market.”

Zainal said: “Golf course superintendents and those in club management in Malaysia and around the region are now able to grow their careers through the educational programmes that the Asian Golf Industry Federation organises.

“I gained my knowledge about turfgrass and the golf industry by attending courses and networking. Education is crucial for individuals to progress and through my role with the AGIF I hope I can make a contribution to the betterment of the industry.”

Zainal is the second individual to be appointed as a Senior Advisor to the AGIF. Late last year, Seoul-based Oh Sang-jun was confirmed as a Senior Advisor in Korea.

Lynge said the appointment of Senior Advisors in key markets around the region is part of the Federation’s expansion strategy.

He said: “The Asian Golf Industry Federation has much to offer for companies and individuals in the golf field around the region. We believe there’s an increasing demand for us to deliver more education for those in club management and turfgrass management.

“By working with our Senior Advisors to grow the Federation’s presence, we aim to be able to offer greater educational opportunities and the potential for networking. We’re excited to see what can be achieved.”