KUALA LUMPUR: Last month marked the record-breaking sixth edition of the Tourism Johor Golf Tournament for the Tunku Panglima Johor Challenge Trophy.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of The Els Club Desaru Coast — Ocean, the tournament attracted 132 golfers from eight countries: Malaysia, South Korea, Singapore, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, Scotland, South Africa, and Australia.
The participation of Tunku Abdul Rahman Al-Haj Ibni Sultan Ibrahim this year, the Tunku Panglima Johor, after a prolonged absence, added a touch of regal charm to the event.
In his welcoming speech during the royal luncheon and prize-giving ceremony, Johor Golf Tourism Association (JGTA) president Col Mohd Jamal Salleh, 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.
"Every year the registration for this tournament surpasses our initial target of 120 participants. This year, the final count revealed a remarkable assembly of 132 golfers, constituting a diverse and dynamic field.
"The level of international representation not only underscores the tournament's growing acclaim but also solidifies its status as a must attend event on the yearly calendar.
"The resonance of this royal tournament has transcended borders, creating a melting pot of golfing talent and camaraderie that showcases Johor as a thriving hub for the sport on the world stage."
Also in attendance was Tunku Abu Bakar Al-Haj Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, the Tunku Putera of Johor.
Since its inception in 2017, the Tourism Johor Golf Tournament for Tunku Panglima Johor Challenge Trophy has been an annual spectacle, delivering a unique golfing experience to participants.
Beyond the greens, the event serves as a nexus for building and strengthening networks and camaraderie among golf enthusiasts in Johor, neighbouring states, and nearby countries.
The tournament not only showcased a diverse attendance but also embraced the growing influence of women in golf.
Among the participants, five talented ladies from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore added a touch of grace and skill to the competition.
The excitement soared with hole-in-one prizes, featuring not just four coveted cars – Maxus T60, Toyota Corolla GR Sport, Perodua Aruz X, and Mitsubishi Triton – but also an opulent assortment of beauty products worth RM10,000 each at all par 3s and a prestigious Titoni watch.
Beyond the main prizes, the tournament also boasted an array of novelties, including awards for the Nearest to the Line (NTL), Nearest to the Pin (NTP), and the Longest Drive.
Adding an extra dash of thrill for the participants, there was also an "On-the-Green" challenge at hole No 6 that brought an additional layer of excitement.
RESULTS
Overall champions Gross: Raja Amin bin Raja Azhar,
Nett: Zulkifli Azahari.
Division A champions Gross: Mohd Sukhri Alias,
Nett: Nazarodin Razak.
Division B champions Gross: Saiful Supar,
Nett: Mohd Ekhwan.
Division C champions Gross: Datuk Rizal Mansor,
Nett: Mohd Nor Lingan.
Ladies Division
Champion (Nett): Datin Sri Norhidayah.
The novelties Nearest-to-the-Pin:
Lakes Hole No 2: Khairy Kalai
Coast Hole No 3: Muhammad Aqashah Kamarudin
The novelties Nearest-to-the-Line:
Lakes Hole No 7: Wu Bin
Coast Hole No 7: Mohd Azizul Mohd Salim
The novelties Longest Drive: Lakes Hole No 9: Ahmad Afif Faris Ahmad Murad
Coast Hole No 8: YM Raja Rafi