Singapore: One of Asia’s best-known and most revered golfing venues, the Singapore Island Country Club (SICC) is set to celebrate its Diamond Jubilee in style.

Formed on July 1, 1963, when two of Singapore’s top clubs, the Royal Singapore Golf Club and the Royal Island Club merged, it has evolved from a golf club to an excellent country club offering a wide variety of sporting, recreational, and social activities.

“A club is much more than the bricks and mortar with which it is built. It is about its people and connections,” said Vincent Wee, President at SICC, a Facility Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.

“The club’s growth and achievements would not have been possible without the dedication and diligence of our founding members, the visionary leadership of our predecessors, friendship with industry partners and reciprocal clubs, and our long-serving employees,” added Wee.

Nine long-standing members who have been with the club for more than 60 years, dedicated employees, and industry partners were invited to attend the gala dinner.

Among them were Wilson Anthony and Senen Bin Rataim, who have been employees of the club for more than 110 years combined.

“I remember when SICC first started and how far we’ve come since then. It’s amazing to see the progress we’ve made and I’m excited to see where we’ll be in the years to come” said Anthony, an SICC employee since 1966.

“When I first joined SICC, I had no idea how much it would impact my life. It has given me so many opportunities to learn, grow, and challenge myself. I’m so grateful for every single moment,” said Tay Beng Chuan, an SICC member since 1962.

The gala dinner featured a specially curated dinner, live music performances, as well as a nostalgic look back at the club’s history. The event also saw the unveiling of a coffee table book: SICC at 60: Renewal, Revival, Rejuvenation, documenting the club’s rich heritage, major milestones and transformation plans.

In addition to the gala dinner, the club has planned a range of activities to cater to the diverse interests of its members, guests, as well as its employees for its Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

These include golf tournaments, a full-day carnival on June 17 that will spread across the entire Island Clubhouse, and the launch of limited-edition merchandise.

Formed in 1963, the SICC now has more than 7,800 members. Venue for numerous major international golf events, the club features three courses totalling 63 holes, a wide variety of F&B outlets, sports, social and leisure facilities across two locations in central Singapore.