Johor to Welcome Over 650 Golfers from 50 Countries for WAGC World Final 2026
PETALING JAYA: Johor is preparing to host one of the world’s largest amateur golf tournaments after more than 650 golfers and international delegates from over 50 countries confirmed participation in the World Amateur Golfers Championship (WAGC) World Final 2026.
Scheduled to take place from October 23 to 31, the championship is expected to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a leading golf tourism destination while supporting both Visit Johor Year 2026 and Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
The event marks Malaysia’s fifth opportunity to host the prestigious world final, while Johor becomes the host venue for the second time, reflecting growing international confidence in the state’s capability to stage major sporting events.
The official launch was held at the Johor Tourism Information Centre (JOTIC), attended by representatives from Tourism Malaysia, Tourism Johor, the Johor Golf Tourism Association (JGTA), corporate sponsors, industry partners and members of the media.
Beyond the sporting competition, organisers expect the tournament to generate substantial economic benefits for accommodation providers, transportation operators, food and beverage businesses, retailers and other tourism-related industries.
The championship is also expected to boost international visitor arrivals while further promoting Malaysia as a premier destination for golf tourism.
The launch ceremony featured cultural performances highlighting Johor’s heritage alongside a multimedia presentation themed “WAGC World Final 2026 – The Race to Desaru Coast, Johor, Malaysia.”
Participants will stay at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast and The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, while tournament rounds will be contested at The Els Club Desaru Coast, Forest City Golf Resort and Tanjung Puteri Golf Resort.
The 2026 edition will also welcome first-time participating nations including Austria, Azerbaijan, Cyprus, El Salvador, Georgia, Ireland, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Thailand and Ukraine.
WAGC President Isac Saminathan said the championship extends beyond golf by creating opportunities to strengthen international friendships, cultural exchange and tourism through sport.
He added that Johor offers world-class golf facilities, outstanding hospitality and memorable visitor experiences that make it an ideal destination for the global event.
JGTA President Col. (Rtd.) Mohd. Jamal Salleh said Johor’s selection as host for a second time demonstrates the international golfing community’s confidence in the state’s ability to organise world-class tournaments.
Tourism Malaysia chairman Datuk Manoharan Periasamy added that the championship represents another important platform to reinforce Malaysia’s reputation as a leading destination for sports tourism, particularly in the global golf segment.
