Damai Golf & Country Club

• Designer: Arnold Palmer
• Golf Cart: USD 70
• Holes / Par / Yardage: 18 holes, par 72 (6,950 yards)
• Established: 1996
• Golf Set: USD 50
• Location: 20 minutes from Kuching on the South China Sea
• Golf Shoes: USD 20
• Distance: 30 kilometers from Kuching Airport
• Umbrella: USD 10
• Closed on: Open every day
• Driving Range: None
• Max. golfers per group: Weekday: 4, Weekend: 4
• Facilities: Restaurants

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Damai Golf & Country Club Description

The Damai Golf & Country Club in Sarawak is a remarkable golfing destination, featuring the first Arnold Palmer-designed golf course in Malaysia. Opened in 1996, this course is set against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Santubong and stretches along the beaches, rocky outcrops, and mangrove forests on a peninsula extending into the South China Sea. Over the years, Damai Golf & Country Club has hosted several prestigious golf events, including the Damai Challenge, World Golf Amateur Challenge, and Carlsberg Golf Classic.

The course is divided into two distinct nines: the Mountain Nine and the Ocean Nine. The Mountain Nine offers a challenging golfing experience in a rugged, natural rainforest setting, following the contours of the mountain foothills. In contrast, the Ocean Nine hugs the South China Sea, featuring scenic fairways, beautiful beaches, and coastal ranges in the distance. The greens at Damai are generally small, rewarding accurate approach shots.

Notable Holes

• 3rd Hole: A short 147-yard par-3 that plays to an elevated green. Two deep bunkers in front and on both sides of the green, along with a stream running on the right, make this hole a true test of precision.

• 8th Hole: The longest par-5 on the course at 556 yards. This dogleg right has a wide landing area for the tee shot, but the fairway narrows significantly as it approaches the green. A lake on the left side of the fairway adds to the challenge, particularly on the second shot. This hole was recognized as the third most difficult in Malaysia by Golf Malaysia readers in 2004.

• 15th Hole: A stunning 335-yard par-4 with mangrove swamps and the ocean on the left and OB on the right. The narrow fairway is guarded by bunkers on both sides, and longer drives must contend with a tight landing area squeezed by the ocean on the left and trees on the right.

• 17th Hole: The signature hole, a 168-yard par-3, plays slightly downhill with the South China Sea covering three sides of the green. Club selection is crucial as the prevailing winds can significantly affect play.

• 18th Hole: The closing par-5 is a magnificent dogleg right. The entire left side is bordered by the ocean, while the right is lined with trees. Tight landing areas require precise shot-making to secure a par. With mountains in the backdrop and beaches and ocean on the sides, it’s no wonder this hole was once chosen as the second most scenic hole in Malaysia.

Facilities

The Damai Golf & Country Club offers a range of facilities, including a grass driving range, practice areas, golfer’s cafe, pro shop, and locker rooms. While the clubhouse is somewhat dated, it remains adequate for the needs of most golfers in Sarawak.

This Arnold Palmer-designed course, with its stunning views and challenging