World amateur golfers head for Malaysia in 2026

JEJU, 11 November 2025 – Tourism Malaysia showcased the country’s strengths in tourism and golf during the World Amateur Golfers Championship (WAGC) 2025 Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation, held on 7 November at the Landing Convention Centre, Jeju Shinhwa World.

The prestigious gala gathered over 600 attendees from more than 39 countries to honour top-performing amateur golfers from around the globe.

From left: WAGC President Isac Saminathan and Tourism Malaysia Seoul Director Kamilia Hani Abd Halim join Team China, the WAGC 2025 Team Champion, who outplayed teams from 39 nations. On the far right is WAGC Vice President Johan Tumba, son of tournament founder and Swedish ice hockey legend Sven Tumba.

A key highlight of the evening was the official handover of the host nation flag to Malaysia, which will stage the WAGC World Final 2026 in Johor.

The 2025 tournament concluded with Team China crowned as Team Champion, Team Indonesia taking second place, and Team Philippines finishing third.

Speaking on behalf of Malaysia, Tourism Malaysia Seoul Director Kamilia Hani Abd Halim underscored the country’s readiness to welcome international participants to next year’s championship.

The gala functioned not only as the closing ceremony but also as a global platform to promote Malaysia as the next host destination.

Tourism Malaysia’s involvement included a cultural performance, the screening of the Visit Malaysia 2026 promotional video, and an informative presentation on Malaysia’s premier golf courses.

These efforts gave guests a preview of Malaysia’s rich tourism offerings and signature hospitality ahead of the 2026 event.

The upcoming WAGC World Final 2026 will coincide with Visit Malaysia 2026, a worldwide campaign celebrating the nation’s multicultural heritage and outstanding travel experiences.

Malaysia is widely regarded as one of Asia’s leading golf tourism hubs, with a wide variety of courses located by tropical beaches, in cool highland retreats, and across picturesque countryside. Modern infrastructure, year-round golfing conditions, and strong connectivity make Malaysia an attractive choice for golf enthusiasts and leisure travellers alike.

Tourism Malaysia sees its role in the WAGC as a chance to further elevate Malaysia as a top destination for golf and other high-value niche tourism segments.

The 2026 championship is anticipated to draw over 700 participants from 40 countries, offering extensive global visibility and encouraging lasting collaboration within the international golf community.

The Tourism Malaysia Seoul Director praised the WAGC organisers and players for a successful event in Jeju and expressed gratitude for the strong ties between Malaysia and the WAGC community.

“Golf is more than a game. Beyond competition and camaraderie, it promotes cultural exchange and helps build stronger connections between nations. The World Amateur Golfers Championship truly reflects these values of unity and global friendship through sport,” she said.