CONTENTS
06 YEAR IN REVIEW: A MILESTONE YEAR FOR SINGAPORE GOLF
It’s a wrap for 2024! But memories of what has been a milestone year for Singapore golf where meaningful conversations and inspiring moments for Singapore golf will remain etched firmly in our minds.
10 TOMORROW’S STARS READY TO SHINE
From day one to number one. Achieving sporting excellence is a long and arduous journey. But partners like EFG are always ready to embark on that journey together with our next generation of golfing stars.
12 IN CONVERSATION WITH LAI MUN ONN
A recipient of the SGA’s Distinguished Service Award, Lai Mun Onn opens up about his golfing journey and restarting a new lease of life for Keppel Club as Singapore’s first hybrid golf club.
15 SINGAPOREANS ABROAD: PUNCHING ABOVE OUR WEIGHTS
IN THE WORLD OF AMATEUR AND SOCIAL
GOLF
Singapore golf has a game. And that’s not a bold statement as Catherine Kwek and Maggie Koh demonstrated that by clinching the country’s and Asia’s first victory in the history of the International Pairs World Final in Spain.
18 SGA GOLF WEEK MAKES WELCOME RETURN
From empowering persons with disabilities to hosting insightful discussions on golf, honouring Singapore’s golfing achievements, and bringing the game to the heartland, the second edition of the SGA Golf Week was back to celebrate the growing popularity of the sport in Singapore.
22 TANAH MERAH EARNS PRESTIGIOUS GEO CERTIFICATION ACHIEVEMENT
It has been a remarkable transformation from an open wasteland into a thriving ecosystem that supports a rich variety of flora and fauna for Tanah Merah Country Club. The club’s efforts to preserve biodiversity and promote sustainable practices were duly rewarded when it was awarded the prestigious GEO Certified® accreditation by the Golf Environment Organisation.
25 GOLF TIPS WITH MURRAY SMIT
SGA National coach Murray Smit imparts the finer points on how to improve your landing spot control when chipping together with National Squad member Hailey Loh.
26 GOLF RULES WITH UNCLE KEN
Learn more about the rules of golf from Uncle Ken as he shares about what counts or doesn’t as a ball marker on the green.
EDITOR CALVIN KOH
DIGITAL INTERACTIVE DESIGN TOPDOT DESIGN PTE LTD
SGA MARKETING EXECUTIVE RACHEL LEE
CONTRIBUTORS ERVIN ANG
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For Advertising enquiries, please email sga@sga.org.sg or rachel@sga.org.sg
PRESIDENT’S NOTE
It’s a wrap for 2024. But before we close out the year, we want to talk about all things golf in this issue and reflect on the milestones and memories that have shaped the golf landscape in Singapore into a vibrant and robust one.
Over the past year, we’ve continued to build an inclusive golf ecosystem that nurtures talent, fosters growth, and strives for excellence. Our strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, high-performance programs, golf carnivals, and fundraising efforts have all played a part in our progress.
There were truly several inspiring stories that uplifted the nation this year, particularly from Shannon Tan and Hiroshi Tai. They have shown that Singapore golfers can indeed punch above their weight on the international stage. Their achievements will further fuel the wider community’s interest in golf and will undoubtedly encourage more people to get involved at all levels.
The year might have come to an end. But the work continues, and we can only look ahead to an exciting 2025 where new opportunities and achievements await.
Happy holidays everyone!
Tan Chong Huat President, Singapore Golf Association Chairman, ASEAN Golf Federation
YEAR IN REVIEW: A MILESTONE YEAR FOR SINGAPORE GOLF
By Calvin Koh
December is a time for reflection - a chance to look back on a year filled with memorable moments and milestones. For Singapore's
golf community, 2024 was a remarkable year as the ecosystem became more robust with golf continuing its rise in popularity even as local stars inspired the country – both locally and abroad.
The Singapore Golf Association (SGA) continued to drive progress, forging partnerships and hosting landmark events. Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with key partners such as NTUC
A world-class golf hub
Singapore once again proved its status as a premier golf destination with its hosting of several high-profile international events. Global golfing stars arrived at the Sentosa Golf Club for the HSBC Women’s World Championship and LIV Golf. The
Club, SLGA, SPGA, and SDSC underscored a collective commitment to advancing golf in Singapore.
The return of the second edition of the SGA Golf Week highlighted the continued appeal of golf. Strategic discussions, professional recognition, and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities – including a strong focus on disability golf were championed during the week-long fiesta.
Hana Financial Group Singapore Women’s Open welcomed some of the best players from Asia to Tanah Merah Country Club, while the South East Asian Amateur Golf Team Championship showcased the stars of tomorrow at Seletar Country Club.
Building Regional Alliances
Beyond the shores of Singapore, SGA strengthened its regional ties, signing MOUs with the golf associations of Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. These partnerships aim to collectively elevate the sport across Southeast
Inspiring
A Nation Singaporean golfers made waves on the international stage, led by Shannon Tan and Hiroshi Tai. Tan
became Singapore’s first golfer to compete at the Paris Olympic Games, while Tai secured his place in history as the first Singaporean golfer to compete at the Masters Tournament next April following his NCAA triumph.
National squad member Inez Ng made her collegiate golf
Asia. Study trips to Japan and South Korea, along with training camps in Vietnam, ensured that SGA continued to adopt best practices from leading golf nations.
breakthrough when she captured the individual title at the Cavalier Regional Preview with a commanding eight-shot victory. Meanwhile, Brayden Lee brought further glory to Singapore by clinching the boys' individual title at the Asia Junior Team Championships in South Korea.
Triumphs Closer to Home
In regional competitions, Ryan Ang and Aloysa Atienza emerged victorious at the 15th Kuala Lumpur Amateur Open. The Lion City Cup saw Singapore dethrone powerhouse Thailand, with Lee, Troy Storm, and Aaron Wee delivering a standout performance in front of the home
Nurturing the Next Generation
The future of Singapore golf remains to shine brightly with grassroots initiatives gaining momentum. The Junior InterClub League and the inaugural SGA-BFG Junior Golf Series provided young talents with
crowd at Seletar Country Club.
Chen Xingtong, once again underlined her growing credentials by becoming the youngest player to win the 76th Singapore Open Amateur Championship with her wire-to-wire victory at Orchid Country Club.
platforms to hone their skills and showcase their potential.
Recognition and Governance
SGA’s efforts were not confined to the greens. The association’s exemplary standards of governance were acknowledged for the second consecutive year with the 2024 Charity Transparency Awards. This
A Vision for the Future
As we celebrate the achievements of 2024, we look forward to an even brighter future. Golf in Singapore continues to thrive, not just as a sport but as a source of inspiration for generations to come.
accolade reflects the dedication and integrity that underpin SGA's mission.
These are indeed exciting times for Singapore golf - a year to remember and a foundation for a future filled with promise.
TOMORROW’S STARS READY TO SHINE
By Calvin Koh
They are touted as the golf stars of the future and early glimpses of their golfing talent were seen at the EFG International Golf Challenge in August.
More than just a competition, the two-day challenge at Tanah Merah Country Club provided a meaningful experience for all participants. Friendships and sportsmanship were fostered, while values of perseverance and teamwork were promoted.
Team Asia may have emerged as the champion. However, the biggest winner was still the priceless opportunity for top junior golfers from across Asia and Europe as they could sharpen their game in a competitive environment featuring foursomes, fourball, and singles matches.
Achieving sporting excellence is a long and arduous journey. But it’s a ride that Albert Chiu, Executive Chairman Asia Pacific of EFG Bank, one of the leading Swiss banks in Asia Pacific, is ready to embark with his ‘next generation of golfing stars’.
“Sports play a vital role in creating a positive mindset
and resilience, and EFG is proud to support the next generation of talents in realising their potential and positively influencing their peers,” says Chiu.
“We were thrilled to witness the remarkable talent and sportsmanship displayed by these young golfers. The second EFG International Golf Challenge has once again showcased the incredible potential of the next generation of golfing stars.”
“EFG is proud to journey with these athletes from the very beginning. I have seen first-hand the sacrifices these young athletes make to bring sporting glory to their countries and cities.”
Youth golfers at the EFG International Golf Challenge
Team Singapore
The ride to reach the pinnacle of the sport includes several other initiatives EFG Bank does to champion youth golf too. As a long-standing partner of the Singapore Golf Association (SGA), EFG rolled out the EFG-SGA Elite Young Golfers Scholarship, where squad members Inez Ng, Chen Xingtong, Ryan Ang, Troy Storm and Brayden Lee – recognised for their outstanding sporting ability and leadership qualities – were selected for their 2024 program.
Shannon Tan, Singapore’s first Olympian in golf who turned professional at the start of the year, was also named as a new EFG Singapore Sports Ambassador
“We have a strong track record in nurturing young athletes, and we are convinced that with their exceptional skills, determination and passion for the sport, Shannon, Inez, Ryan, Xingtong, Troy and Brayden are all set to achieve great success in the future,” said Chiu.
EFG Bank’s commitment to nurturing young athletes from their formative years has not been lost on these young talents who are ready to repay the bank's faith in recognising their potential.
“Their unwavering support has been crucial in helping me grow and develop as a golfer and helping the growth of golf in Singapore.
“I’ve been able to play in major events such as the Women's Amateur Team Championship and the Women's Amateur Asia Pacific. Such events have helped me to grow both in experience and have been great memories for me,” says 15-year-old Chen.
Albert Chiu
Albert Chiu with Mr. Alvin Tan, Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth & Trade and Industry
IN CONVERSION WITH LAI MUN ONN
By Calvin Koh
LaiMun Onn is a well-known figure in the golfing community, especially at Keppel Club where, he is seen and respectfully heard over the last three decades. Interestingly, it was not the sport of golf that first brought the 75-year-old to the storied club, where he presides over as its President today.
Lai was recently honoured with the Distinguished Service Award by the Singapore Golf Association (SGA) and we caught up with the semi-retired lawyer, who now enjoys golf as much as his time with his wife, two daughters and four grandchildren.
Q. Your name is synonymous within the golfing circle. But to the uninitiated, tell us who is Lai Mun Onn?
A. I played many sports in my younger days, including table tennis, badminton, volleyball and eventually tennis. I joined Keppel Club in the late 1980s for its five beautiful tennis courts, not for golf. I was the Club Tennis Convenor for the years 1991 to 1994. At Keppel Club, I made many friends who
introduced me to golf and by 1995, when I was first elected by members to be the Vice President, I was totally hooked onto golf.
Then, I played golf about three to four times a week, and my lowest score was 73, never achieving the elusive 72. I was so much into golf that I joined other clubs like Tanah Merah Country Club and Sentosa Golf Club.
Q. The golf landscape in Singapore has certainly evolved over the last three decades. What was it like when you first started at the Keppel Club back then?
A. The golf landscape in Singapore has certainly evolved over the years and I am honoured to bear witness to the changes as Vice President of Keppel Club from 1995 to 2011 (with a year break in 2004).
In the early years, golf clubs catered mainly to the needs of its members, except for the mini golf course, fondly known as “Royal Tanglin” along
Napier Road. The public had very limited access to play golf, except when introduced as guests by their member friends or as “walk-in” players where they have coughed up a rather hefty sum.
Q. How has Keppel Club evolved to make golf more accessible to the public?
A. The writings on the wall became clearer sometime around 2015 when the Government made it known that the lease for the Keppel Club land would not be extended as there were plans for it to be redeveloped for housing needs in land-scarce Singapore. The Government were concerned with maximising the utilisation of the golf courses and also making them more accessible to the public at affordable rates.
Thereafter, an opportunity arose for Keppel Club to take over the Sime Golf course on the basis that it is to be operated as a hybrid course, catering for the needs of its members and the public on a 40: 60 ratio respectively.
By year 2012, I was appointed as President of Keppel Club and am still serving My Committee and I, while we were very excited by this new lease of life for Keppel Club, yet it was a daunting challenge, as this is the first-born hybrid golf club in Singapore.
Q. How daunting was the challenge?
A. We would be threading through unchartered waters with little visibility on the financials and utilisation data. Nevertheless, Keppel Club pressed on and I am proud to say that Keppel Club is able to present a respectable report card to-date.
Q. Receiving the Distinguished Service Award from the SGA surely ranks as another career milestone for you. How special and what does this award mean to you?
A. I’ve never expected to receive any award for my services to the sport of golf. Keppel Club have always been closest to my heart as my kids grew up there. We spent very many hours bonding over tennis, swimming, arcade games and simply having meals together.
After tennis, golf became my main sports passion. I was privileged to sit on the Governing Council of the SGA, where I gained insight into the sport at the national level and participated in the decisionmaking process which defined the development of golf in Singapore.
While I am pleased and honoured to receive this Award, I am at the same time deeply humbled as I am sure there are others who have contributed very much to the sport of golf in Singapore. My appreciation to Keppel Club, the other golf clubs in Singapore and the Singapore Golf Association for their staunch support through the years.
DYNAMIC DUO KWEK AND KOH SHINE SPOTLIGHT ON SINGAPORE GOLF AT INTERNATIONAL PAIRS IN SPAIN
By Calvin Koh
Singapore golf has a game. This is not a bold statement by any stretch of the imagination. But in the world of social and amateur golf, Singapore’s Catherine Kwek and Maggie Koh – representing Warren Golf and Country Club –have indeed punched above their weight when they secured the country’s and Asia’s first victory in the history of the International Pairs World Final in October.
It took 26 years of waiting for Singapore to send their first team of six to compete in the International Pairs golf tournament and when it finally did happen, our ladies certainly made our tiny red dot shine at the World Final held at Golf del Sur, Tenerife, Spain.
The formidable partnership of Kwek and Koh, who are used to matchplay competitions and compete regularly in Singapore Golf Association (SGA) Inter-Club League competition for Warren Golf and Country Club, saw them dominate the tournament with a total net stableford score of 93 points.
The duo emerged triumphant after two rounds of competition where they cruised to a 24-point lead over the Italian duo of Giulia Martinelli and Lorella Campi, who came in runners-up.
Speaking after their final round where they scored 47 points, following their opening 46, Kwek said, “I didn’t start well but Maggie saved us in the first few holes. At the turn, we were going for broke, attacking every fairway and green; I played my usual consistent game and she went for every drive. At the 17th hole, she even drove the green.”
“On this day, we proved to the world that Singapore is capable of achieving success in international amateur golf despite our size, and I hope our win will inspire more women back home to play golf and participate in future events of the International Pairs,” added Koh.
Benny Teo, Official Licensee of the International Pairs Singapore responsible for bringing the event to the country for the first time in 26 years said: “The girls stole the show at the National Finals at Laguna National topping all division scores, and they proved their mettle by doing it again in front of the entire world. What bigger statement of intent can we send not only for the strength of golf in Singapore, but also the growth and development of the women’s game in our country.”
In this first year of entry, Singapore competed in all three divisions of
Open, Women’s and Mixed pairs. The Open division pair of Clinton Ang and Stephen King returned with an admirable net score of 79 points (38, 41) after two days and finished at a commendable 11th place.
The mixed pair of Antonio Jo and Nina Um scored 41 and 36 points respectively for a total of
77 points and a 4th place finish at the Mixed Pairs division.
“This first International Pairs outing is a resounding success in terms of what I want to achieve. My intention was to bring Singapore to the world map in amateur golf and by performing so well, the entire team well exceeded my expectations.
Singapore Team in high spirits at the Opening Flag Ceremony.
“I can only thank the comprehensive and diverse development of the sport across the golf clubs and the SGA,” said Teo.
In 2025, International Pairs Singapore will aim to conduct club qualifiers across all eight golf clubs across the country, and include non-estate golf
clubs such as NTUC Club’s MyGolfKaki, Keppel Sime golfers and even the new breed of golfers who play regularly at the burgeoning indoor simulated version of the game.
Across Southeast Asia, International Pairs will also be conducted in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam,
each with their own club qualifiers and National Finals, and players representing their nations at the 2025 World Final to be held in Sun City, South Africa.
“2024 is the dream start to bringing Singapore and the region to the world map. In 2025, we will actualise it, and send a contingent that represents the diverse and colourful mix of Southeast Asia to the global event, so watch out world, we are coming,” added Teo.
International Pairs is the world's largest amateur pairs golf competition, bringing together golfers from over 27 countries to compete in a friendly yet competitive environment. The tournament fosters international camaraderie and provides amateur golfers with the opportunity to play on a world stage, representing their golf clubs and countries.
SINGAPOREANS RENEW AFFINITY WITH GOLF AS SGA GOLF WEEK RETURNS
The love for golf swung back into full gear as Singaporeans from all walks of life teed off to celebrate the growing popularity of the sport in Singapore. From empowering persons with disabilities (PWDs) to hosting insightful discussions on golf, honouring Singapore’s golfing achievements, and bringing the game to the heartland, the second edition of the SGA Golf Week was a vibrant celebration of the sport in December.
By Calvin Koh
Empowering Disability Golf
The week began on a meaningful note with a significant boost for disability golf. A tripartite agreement between the Singapore Golf Association (SGA), Singapore Disability Sports Council, and Keppel Club was announced, creating more opportunities for PWDs to participate in golf.
Asia Golf Convention
The Asia Golf Convention, held at the Singapore Island Country Club, brought together industry experts and enthusiasts to share valuable insights. From women’s participation in golf to advancements in technology, anti-doping measures, and health, the convention covered a broad spectrum of topics. Participants also enjoyed excellent networking opportunities, strengthening the local and regional golf community.
As part of the agreement, Keppel Club will host monthly golf sessions over three years, offering training, practice, and game experiences tailored to PWDs. This initiative underscores the inclusive nature of golf and its ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds.
President’s Cup, Gala & Awards Night – Celebrating excellence and giving back
The President’s Cup —a golf fundraiser to support SGA’s various initiatives and programmes – followed by the Annual Gala and Awards Dinner, where players and stakeholders were honoured for their contributions to Singapore's golf ecosystem anchored the week. It was also an evening of revelry and celebrations with Mr. Seah Kian Peng, Speaker of the Parliament of Singapore gracing the occasion as the guest of honour.
Golf Fiesta – Bringing golf back to the heartland
Partnering with NTUC Club, the Golf Fiesta at Orchid Country Club on December 7-8 was a fun-filled extravaganza aimed at introducing and promoting golf to the wider community to cap . With interactive golf-themed activities, the event highlighted the accessibility and inclusiveness of the sport.
A sport for all
Golf is truly a sport for life, enjoyed by people of all ages, genders, backgrounds, and abilities. Aligned with SGA’s vision of getting more Singaporeans to play the sport, the SGA Golf Week has again provided a platform for more Singaporeans to experience and embrace this timeless game.
TANAH MERAH’S COURSES EARN PRESTIGIOUS GEO CERTIFICATION ACHIEVEMENT BY SCOTTISH GLOBAL BODY
Strategically located along Singapore’s East Coast, Tanah Merah Country Club (TMCC) has undergone a remarkable transformation—from an open wasteland into a thriving ecosystem that supports a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Today, TMCC is home to a diverse array of animal species and boasts two environmentally friendly courses – the Garden and Tampines Courses, where sustainable practices are part of daily operations.
In recognition of its efforts
to preserve biodiversity and promote sustainable practices, TMCC has been awarded the prestigious GEO Certified® accreditation by the Golf
Environment Organisation (GEO), a prominent Scotland-based body that evaluates golf courses worldwide for their commitment to sustainability.
Garden Course
Tampines Course
In his assessment for certification, Brad Revill, the GEO accredited independent verifier, said of the Tampines Course: “An impressively well-maintained facility with excellent turf quality, surrounding nature and a modern here and I look forward to seeing the tree-planting plan and wetland habitat
projects progress.”
As for the Garden Course, he added: “As the name suggests, the Garden course is a beautiful property surrounded by nature with tropical landscaping throughout the course. The golf course has huge potential for the creation of large natural habitats,
and I look forward to seeing the initiatives the club has planned.”
With this recognition, TMCC joins an elite group of golf clubs globally acknowledged for advancing sustainable practices and earning credibility for their environmental stewardship in golf.
Garden Course
Sustainability
Milestones
Akey highlight of TMCC’s sustainability journey was the completion of its Solar Panel Installation Project at the Tampines Course in 2023. This project represents a major step towards reducing the club’s carbon footprint by integrating clean energy solutions into its operations.
The Garden Course’s solar panel installation is also underway, with completion expected soon, further cementing the club’s commitment to renewable energy and environmental conservation.
In land-scarce cities like Singapore, golf courses hold immense potential as a force for good. Beyond offering recreational spaces, they provide valuable ecosystem services, support wildlife conservation, and enhance the health and well-being of members and
guests. Additionally, golf courses create jobs and contribute to economic growth through local supply chains.
“We will continue to prioritise eco-friendly initiatives, such as our solar panel projects, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on both our operations and the environment.”
TMCC General Manager Elliott Gray echoed Ong’s sentiments: “TMCC takes great pride in leading the way in renewable energy and environmental stewardship. Building on this success, we are now devising ways to further engaging with our stakeholders to identify and deliver additional sustainable benefits for our community.”
“Attaining this international accreditation underscores the exceptional team effort behind the wide range of practical, social, and environmental initiatives that are being implemented across our club operations and beyond.”
TMCC Tampines Course Solar Panels
MASTER YOUR LANDING SPOT CONTROL
SGA National Coach Murray Smit and National Squad member Hailey Loh demonstrate a fun short game drill to improve your landing spot control when chipping.
Chipping with Murray Smit & Hailey Loh
WHAT COUNTS AS A BALL MARKER UNDER THE RULES OF GOLF?
Resident guru Uncle Ken breaks down what counts (and doesn’t count) as a ball marker on the green.
Golf Rules with Uncle Ken
2024 has been a year filled with memorable conversations and wonderful achievements. And it would not have been possible without the support of our valued sponsors and partners.
EVENTS CALENDAR
Sentosa Golf Club, The Tanjong Course
Sembawang Country Club
Mandai Executive Golf Course
Orchid Country Club (TBA)
Mandai Executive Golf Course
NSRCC (Kranji) & Seletar Country Club
VENUE
DIRECTORY
Changi Golf Club
Address: 20 Netheravon Road (S) 508505
Phone: 6545 5133 changigolfclub.org.sg
Keppel Club
Address: 239 Sime Road, (S) 289685
Phone: 6375 5567 keppelclub.com.sg
Laguna National Golf Resort Club
Address: 111 Laguna Golf Green (S) 488047
Phone: 6542 6888 lagunanational.com
National Service Resort & Country Club
Changi
Address: 10 Changi Coast Walk (S) 499739 Phone: 6542 8288
Kranji Sanctuary Course
Address: 150 Neo Tiew Lane 3 (S) 718828
Phone: 6795 2300 nsrcc.com.sg
Orchid Country Club
Address: 1 Orchid Club Road (S) 769162
Phone: 6755 9811 orchidclub.com
Seletar Country Club
Address: 101 Seletar Club Road (S) 798273
Phone: 6481 4812 seletarclub.com.sg
Keppel Club
Address: 239 Sime Road, (S)289685
Phone: 6375 5567 keppelclub.com.sg
Sembawang Country Club
Address: Sembawang Road (S) 758352
Phone: 6257 0642 sembawanggolf.org.sg
Sentosa Golf Club
Address: 127 Bukit Manis Road (S) 099892
Phone: 6275 0022 sentosagolf.com
Singapore Island Country Club
Bukit Location
Address: 240 Sime Road (S) 288303
Phone: 6466 2244
Island Location
Address: 180 Island Club Road (S) 578774
Phone: 6459 2222 sicc.org.sg
Tanah Merah Country Club
Garden Course
Address: 1 Tanah Merah Coast Road (S) 498722
Phone: 6542 3040
Tampines Course
Address: 151 Xilin Avenue (S) 486798
Phone: 6513 7818 tmcc.org.sg
Warren Golf & Country Club
Address: 81 Choa Chu Kang Way (S) 688263
Phone: 6586 1245 warren.org.sg
Mandai Executive Golf Course
Address: Upper Seletar Reservoir, Mandai Road Track 7 (S) 779384
Phone: 6456 6533
