One of the world’s oldest and most respected amateur golf tournaments, the Malaysian Amateur Open (MAO), will celebrate its 120th edition at the Sabah Golf & Country Club (SGCC) in Kota Kinabalu from 12 to 15 December 2024. Co-organised by the Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) and Sabah Golf Association (SGA), the tournament will bring together top male and female amateur players from 18 countries, including Malaysia, all competing for the prestigious Challenge Trophy. This year’s tournament will also be a ranking event for the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR), cementing its standing on the international amateur golf stage.
The MAO, held annually with alternating locations between East and West Malaysia, has long served as a prime platform for the region’s rising talent to gain world-class experience. The 120th edition promises a fierce competition with representatives from Australia, China, Chinese Taipei, Guam, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Korea, Mongolia, Nepal, Philippines, Pakistan, Thailand, USA, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Vietnam, Myanmar, and host nation Malaysia
Tan Sri Mohd Anwar Mohd Nor, President of the Malaysian Golf Association, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming tournament: “The Malaysian Amateur Open has long been a stepping stone for young, ambitious golfers from around the world, and we are proud to see it continue to thrive. Hosting this event at the Sabah Golf & Country Club reflects our commitment to inclusivity within Malaysian golf, as we showcase Sabah’s outstanding golfing facilities to the world. We look forward to seeing some incredible talent and camaraderie among these emerging stars in the game.”
The Sabah Golf & Country Club, established in 1976 and celebrated for its lush, challenging layout and scenic vistas, will provide an exhilarating test for competitors. Known for its dramatic bunkers and strategic hazards, SGCC is a fitting backdrop for this elite amateur event.
Mr. Nash Hon, President of SGA, expressed his excitement, saying, “Hosting the 120th Malaysian Amateur Open is an immense honour for Sabah Golf & Country Club and the Sabah Golf Association. We are thrilled to bring the region’s best amateur players to Sabah and to showcase our club, which promises to provide a challenging and memorable experience for all competitors.”
The venue’s location in the vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Sabah’s natural beauty and attractions, including the beaches of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and the UNESCO World Heritage site Mount Kinabalu.
The Sabah Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Environment shared its excitement about welcoming participants and visitors: “We are delighted to welcome participants, officials, and visitors to experience Sabah’s natural beauty and warm hospitality. Sabah is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant cultures, from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mount Kinabalu to the crystal-clear waters of our islands. We hope all who visit for the Malaysian Amateur Open will also take time to explore the many wonders of Sabah.”
Dato’ Zulkifli Ismail, Chairman of the MGA Competition Subcommittee, emphasised the MGA’s commitment to the sport, stating, “The return of the Malaysian Amateur Open to Sabah signifies MGA’s dedication to growing the sport across the country. We are eager to see how the players tackle the dynamic course at SGCC and encourage spectators to join us in witnessing what promises to be an exciting tournament.”
Andrew Yap, President of Sabah Golf & Country Club, added, “We are thrilled to bring the region’s best amateur players to Sabah and to showcase our club, which promises to provide a challenging and memorable experience for all competitors. We look forward to welcoming everyone to our beautiful course and city, where both the competition and the scenery will leave a lasting impression.”
The 120th MAO is expected to attract golf enthusiasts and supporters from across the region and beyond, as Malaysia continues its mission to nurture young talent and raise the profile of amateur golf within Asia and internationally.
