Desaru Coast, Johor, Malaysia: The Els Club Desaru Coast played host to Royalty at the sixth edition of the Tourism Johor Golf Tournament.

Gracing the Ernie Els-designed Ocean layout with his presence was His Highness Tunku Abdul Rahman Al-Haj ibni Sultan Ibrahim, the Tunku Panglima Johor.

Colonel Mohd Jamal Salleh, President of the Johor Golf Tourism Association (JGTA), said: “His Highness Tunku Panglima Johor’s continuous endorsement has elevated our tournament to a pinnacle of prestige, solidifying its status as one of the most sought-after golf events in Johor, gathering fervent followers with each passing year.”

Colonel Jamal also extended his gratitude to His Highness Tunku Abu Bakar Al-Haj ibni Sultan Ibrahim, Tunku Putera Johor for his presence.

He said: “With the gracious consent of our esteemed Royal Patron, His Highness Tunku Abdul Rahman ibni Sultan Ibrahim, the JGTA, in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, Majlis Sukan Negeri Johor, and Tourism Johor, orchestrated the sixth edition of the Tourism Johor Golf Tournament 2023 for the Tunku Panglima Johor Challenge Trophy.”

The event boasted a 132-strong line-up with players from eight countries: Malaysia, Korea, Singapore, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, Scotland, South Africa and Australia.

“The resonance of this Royal tournament has transcended borders, creating a melting pot of golfing talent and camaraderie that showcased Johor as a thriving hub for the sport on the world stage.

“This Royal tournament stands as a crucial player in realising the JGTA’s ambitious goal of establishing Johor as the ultimate golfing holiday destination,” added Colonel Jamal.

For next year’s seventh edition of the tournament, Colonel Jamal said the JGTA was committed to increasing female presence, ‘inspiring and empowering women to embrace the joy of golf’.

*The Els Club Desaru is a Facility member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.