This article offers an in-depth update on the current state and future prospects of golf courses across Southeast Asia, covering countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Discover the latest trends and developments in Southeast Asia's golf industry for 2024!
Southeast Asia's golf course scene is vibrant and evolving, with approximately 1,000 golf courses distributed across these eight countries. This spread reflects the varied approaches to sports tourism and leisure facility investments in the region. Thailand leads with a significant 306 courses, representing about one-third of the region’s total. Malaysia and Indonesia follow, with 200 and 150 courses respectively. Together, these three countries account for over 70% of the golf courses in Southeast Asia, highlighting their dominant role in golf tourism and infrastructure.
More detailed insights and specific numbers regarding the golf landscape in each country, continue reading the article to explore the latest developments and projections.
Number of Golf Courses across ASEAN Countries
Thailand
Thailand stands out as a golf powerhouse in Southeast Asia, boasting an impressive 306 courses. The Central region leads with 210 courses, while the North, Northeast, and South offer 39, 31, and 26 courses, respectively. This extensive network provides golfers with a wide range of playing experiences throughout the country.
Malaysia
Malaysia holds the second position with 252 golf courses. Although it trails behind Thailand in numbers, Malaysia has experienced remarkable growth, with a 25% increase in golfers. This surge indicates that Malaysia is rapidly emerging as a key player in the Southeast Asian golf market.
Indonesia
Indonesia ranks third with 181 courses and is poised for further expansion. As Singapore closes its public courses, Indonesia is strategically positioning itself to attract golf enthusiasts seeking international destinations. The country aims to capitalize on this opportunity and strengthen its presence in the regional golf scene.
Philippines
The Philippines offers a rich historical dimension to the regional golf landscape. With 118 courses, it may not lead in numbers, but it is home to Southeast Asia's oldest course—the Santa Barbara Golf Course in Iloilo province, established in 1907.
Vietnam
Vietnam is rapidly expanding its golf offerings, with 86 courses currently in operation. The country plans to more than double this number to 200 by 2025, signaling its ambition to compete with leading golf destinations. Vietnam's golf tourism is already thriving, with 30-40% of international tourists choosing golf-related trips in early 2023.
Singapore
Singapore presents a unique scenario in Southeast Asia's golf landscape. Despite having only 20 golf courses, the city-state has experienced notable growth in its golfing population, rising from 80,000 golfers in 2018 to 120,000 in 2022, according to the R&A Global Golf Participation Report 2023. This surge in interest, despite limited facilities, underscores golf's increasing appeal in Singapore and may explain why neighboring countries are keen to attract Singaporean golf tourists.
However, Singapore's rapid rise in golf participation contrasts sharply with its land use policies. To address housing and other land needs, the government is closing golf courses, including the Champions Public Golf Course last year and the Marina Bay Golf Course, the city's last public 18-hole course, scheduled for closure in June 2024. Additionally, the Mandai Executive Golf Course, originally set to close in December 2024, has been granted a two-year extension until December 2026, as announced in April 2024. This unusual situation may drive Singaporean golfers to seek opportunities across borders.
Cambodia
Cambodia, with just 10 golf courses currently, is beginning to make its mark in the golf tourism sector. City Golf is set to elevate the country's profile with two new 18-hole courses designed by Brian Curley. The East course is scheduled to open in January 2024, followed by the West course in 2025.
Laos
Laos is also positioning itself for growth in the golf industry, currently hosting 10 courses. The government, in collaboration with Korean investors, plans to build a new golf course and resort named "DreamLand Lao" on Don Kangkhong Island in the Mekong River. The project aims to attract 500 to 1,000 visitors per month during its initial phase.
The golf course landscape of a country often reflects its golf business growth. This information helps managers evaluate how different nations compare, identify emerging markets, and explore expansion opportunities.
Stay connected with Asia Golf Journey for more insights into the golf market and the latest trends and developments in Southeast Asia's vibrant golfing scene.
Note: All data pertains to 9 hole & 18-hole courses.
Sources: Asia Golf Journey, GolfLux, GolfPass, AleGolf, Club Managers' Association, Golf in Cambodia, Golf in Malaysia
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