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• Former world No.1 opens first Asian project
• Big Easy describes layout as ‘truly breathtaking’
• Course joins Els’ ever-expanding design portfolio

ERNIE ELS | NEW COURSE

Ernie Els has described his first-ever Asian golf course as ‘truly breathtaking’ following its official launch yesterday.

The Els Club Teluk Datai in Langkawi, Malaysia, joins developments in South Africa, Dubai and the USA in the four-time major winner’s expanding golf course portfolio – and the 45-year-old is justifiably very proud of the finished article.

“This is, without doubt, the most spectacular golf course setting I have had the pleasure of working on and I am incredibly excited about the prospect of inviting the first visitors to come and enjoy The Els Club Teluk Datai,” said Els, who was joined at the opening by dignitaries, including Her Majesty Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Hajjah Haminah, The Queen of Malaysia.

“The course is truly breathtaking and I am delighted with what we have achieved here. I endeavoured to make the most of this unique location and I believe that we have done just that.

“This is one of the world’s most visually stunning golf courses.”

“It was an honour to hit the opening tee shot alongside Her Majesty and I would personally like to thank all of those in attendance for their support in what we are confident is set to become one of the world’s most revered golf course designs.”

Having already been voted the region’s ‘Best Golf Course’ at the 2014 Asia-Pacific Property Awards, The Els Club Teluk Datai has gained unprecedented interest among the world’s golfing media and industry officials.

Nestled between ancient rainforest and the Andaman Sea on the iconic island location of Langkawi, the 18-holes championship course will serve as a focal point for the award-winning Datai Langkawi resort, which is a favourite amongst international travellers.

The Els Club Teluk Datai, operated by Troon Golf, will now play an integral role in realising the vision of resort owners Destination Resorts and Hotels Sdn Bhd (DRH) in developing golf and bespoke tourism experiences in Malaysia.

Senior Vice President of The Els Club Malaysia, David Townend, spoke of his excitement at officially opening to the public.

“This is one of the world’s most visually stunning golf courses, so the early feedback we have achieved and the tremendous reaction we have experienced here today is really no surprise,” he said.

“Over the coming months, we expect to welcome golfers from all over the world, who are eager to test themselves against Ernie’s masterpiece and take advantage of the incredible experience that can be had as a tourist in Langkawi.”

Ernie Els’ new course :: find out more

For more information on Ernie Els new Malaysian golf course, click here or follow @ErnieElsDesign.

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Michael McEwan is the Deputy Editor of bunkered and has been part of the team since 2004. In that time, he has interviewed almost every major figure within the sport, from Jack Nicklaus, to Rory McIlroy, to Donald Trump. The host of the multi award-winning bunkered Podcast and a member of Balfron Golfing Society, Michael is the author of three books and is the 2023 PPA Scotland 'Writer of the Year' and 'Columnist of the Year'. Dislikes white belts, yellow balls and iron headcovers. Likes being drawn out of the media ballot to play Augusta National.

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