Desaru Coast is set to host the World Amateur Golfers Championship (WAGC) World Final 2026, strengthening its position as one of Asia’s leading sports tourism destinations. The championship is scheduled to take place from October 23 to October 31, 2026.
The prestigious championship is expected to welcome approximately 650 amateur golfers and delegates from more than 50 countries, placing Johor in the international spotlight as a premier golf tourism destination while supporting the aspirations of Visit Johor Year 2026.
A Milestone for Sports Tourism in Johor
Chief Executive Officer of Desaru Development Holdings One Sdn Bhd, Izrin Hashim, said the achievement reflects Desaru Coast’s long-term vision of becoming a world-class destination for tourism, lifestyle and international sporting events.
He said hosting the WAGC World Final 2026 demonstrates the confidence that international organisers have in Desaru Coast’s facilities, hospitality offerings and ability to deliver memorable experiences for participants from around the world.
According to him, Desaru Coast has steadily built its reputation through internationally recognised events such as the IRONMAN 70.3 Desaru Coast and L’Étape Malaysia by Tour de France, alongside a year-round calendar of cycling events, fitness programmes and active lifestyle experiences.
Supporting Visit Johor Year 2026
CEO of Desaru Development Holdings One Sdn Bhd, said the championship will play an important role in promoting Johor to a global audience while generating economic opportunities for local businesses and communities.
He added that the event complements the growing list of international sporting events taking place at Desaru Coast, including the upcoming Desaru Coast Multisports Festival presented by IRONMAN, which is expected to attract more than 1,000 participants and supporters from across the region.
Together, these events reinforce Desaru Coast’s ambition to become one of Asia’s premier destinations for international sporting competitions.
Beyond The Championship
Throughout the championship period, participants and accompanying guests will have the opportunity to experience Desaru Coast’s award-winning hospitality, luxury beachfront resorts and championship golf facilities.
Visitors can also enjoy more than 20 restaurants and dining venues, pristine beaches, wellness experiences, family-friendly attractions and curated excursions across Johor before and after the tournament.
Adding to the excitement, a Festival Village will be organised during the event, featuring local markets, cultural performances, creative workshops, premium food and beverage offerings, and other lifestyle activities that showcase Johor’s rich culture and Malaysian hospitality.
The tournament follows the recent reopening of the Ridge Course at The Els Club Desaru Coast after undergoing a comprehensive enhancement programme. The upgrades include improved fairways, refurbished bunkers, enhanced drainage systems and refreshed landscaping, ensuring exceptional playing conditions while preserving the course’s original character.
These enhancements further strengthen The Els Club Desaru Coast’s reputation as one of the region’s premier golf destinations and reflect Desaru Coast’s continued investment in world-class sporting infrastructure.
