Ernie Els Hosts Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at His First Golf Course Creation in Southeast Asia
(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – Troon, the leader in upscale golf course management, development, and marketing announced that Ernie Els, World Golf Hall-of-Famer and founder of Els Design, cut the ribbon just days ago on The Els Club Teluk Datai – marking the official grand opening of the first Els-designed golf course in Southeast Asia.
Situated in Malaysia’s tropical Langkawi archipelago, the four-time Major Champion’s design is one of the world’s most highly-anticipated golf course openings in recent times. Attending the unveiling with Ernie Els were representatives from both resort owner and developer Destinations Resorts and Hotels Sdn Bhd (DRH) and Troon, along with a number of dignitaries and VIP guests.
Ahead of the official opening, Els commented, “We’re thrilled to be officially opening our new course, The Els Club Teluk Datai in Malaysia. The setting is unique and the golf course looks breath-taking.”
The Els-designed facility, which was recently named the region’s “Best Golf Course” at the 2014 Asia-Pacific Property Awards, nestles between ancient rainforest and the Andaman Sea on this iconic island destination, which is a favorite amongst local and international travelers.
Along with the award-winning luxury resort, The Datai Langkawi, the 18-hole championship course will play an integral role in realizing DRH’s vision for the development of golf and bespoke tourism experiences in Malaysia.
Early feedback amongst those who received a sneak preview has been universally positive, giving great encouragement to senior vice president of The Els Club Malaysia, David Townend.
“The response that we have been receiving from golfers and non-golfers who have set foot on The Els Club Teluk Datai ahead of its official launch has been unanimous; this is one of the world’s most visually stunning golf courses, and a true gift of nature,” said Townend. “To my mind, the location, layout, quality of course conditioning and its first-class service standards that Troon is world-renowned for set it apart from all others in the region. In addition to promoting the destination to tourists worldwide, it is my responsibility to ensure the golf course and service set new benchmarks for golf courses in Asia. “We look forward to welcome golfers from far and wide to experience this unique challenge and thank Ernie and his team for their continued input and expertise.”
Els, whose course portfolio includes designs in his native South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, China and United States, was selected by DRH as the lead designer for the golf course development in Teluk Datai just off Malaysia’s north west coast, given his experience and revered standing in the game.
Charged with developing strategic tourism in Malaysia, DRH selected The Els Club brand as the ideal fit for Langkawi, as well as two new golf projects in Desaru, the southernmost state of Johor, which are scheduled for completion in the near future.
“Ernie brings something unique to Malaysian golf,” commented Hanley Chew, chief executive officer of DRH. “His accolades as a golfer speak for themselves, but his vision for The Els Club brand attracted us to how this may benefit Malaysia and attract visitors to our assets. The official launch marks a significant date in history for Langkawi and the first of many steps for DRH.”
The course is managed and operated by Troon, the global leader in upscale golf management, which oversees operations at some of world's pre-eminent golf resorts.
As the winner of more than 60 professional golf tournaments worldwide, Els’ success on the golf course is mirrored in his achievements as a designer. The Els Club brand has become renowned for its ambition of creating attractive, welcoming and luxurious destinations that adhere to the principles of sustainable development and sound environmental practice.
"Ernie has been excited about the Malaysian projects for some time and we are expecting the golf course will attract golfers from all over Asia and internationally,” remarked Thomas Rubi, president Ernie Els Design. "We have been blessed with a strong partner in DRH, who have shown unwavering commitment in delivering an iconic vision for Malaysia. This really is a proud day for all involved.”
For more information on The Els Club Teluk Datai, visit www.elsclubmalaysia.com.
For more information on Destination Resorts and Hotels and Troon Golf, visit www.drh.com.my or www.TroonGolf.com.
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