ISKANDAR PUTERI: Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor Sdn Bhd (KPRJ) is strategically positioning itself to capitalise on the growing demand in golf venues and the golfing industry, as clubs in Singapore are closing down.
Its chief operating officer, Zainal Abidin Zakaria, said KPRJ aimed to tap into the void as Singapore golfers seek alternative venues.
"There are 28 golf courses, including several boasting world-class facilities here, so naturally the untapped potential is in Johor," he said at the Johor Golf Expo 2024 (JGE 2024) closing ceremony in the Senibong Golf Resort here on Sunday.
"Many of the republic's golf clubs are shutting their doors. When this happens, golfers will need new venues, and Johor is the closest option. We aim to fill this void and create business opportunities for KPRJ," he said, adding that it was a wasted opportunity if the void was not filled.
Sports tourism, particularly golf, is a portfolio KPRJ is seriously looking into while positioning Johor as a global sports destination.
KPRJ, an established key player in infrastructure, is one of the state government's investment arms. It is also a major stakeholder in the Iskandar Malaysia development.
Zainal said the state government was committed to positioning the state as a leading sports tourism destination by organising internationally recognised events.
It would further boost the state's attractiveness to tourists globally with the upcoming Visit Johor Year 2026, he added.
For the professional part of the golf industry, revenue is made through ticket sales, event attendance, sponsorship and prize money.
But it can also generate revenue for individuals wanting to play golf through local club courses, fees and equipment purchases.
"Through golf and e-sports, KPRJ is gaining significant visibility, which boost our social media presence and introduce KPRJ to the world," said Zainal.
"KPRJ is taking a step-by-step approach, expanding its wings in golf as a business venture to introduce the company to a wider audience."
KPRJ plans to participate in a golfing event in Korea and is considering bringing the Johor Golf Expo to other districts beyond the state capital. The expo may also be held at alternative venues, such as shopping complexes, while the golf tournaments will remain at the Senibong Golf Resort.
The JGE 2024 concluded on a high note with an evening of celebration at the closing dinner.
Champions Golf managing director Matthew A. Murray praised participants and partners for their dedication, making the event a success.
He said the display of camaraderie, teamwork and integrity, both on and off the course, throughout the three-day expo, was outstanding.
Addressing the attendees, Murray reflected on the success of the tournament, calling it a journey that went beyond mere competition.
"Golf teaches us resilience, strategy and integrity. These values were on full display throughout JGE 2024," he said.
The event was a collaborative effort between Champions Golf and KPRJ Sports Sdn Bhd.
"From the first tee to the final putt, your efforts have not gone unnoticed," Murray said.
Looking ahead, he hoped that the Johor Golf Expo would continue to grow, becoming an annual tradition that strengthened community ties, and promoted sports in Johor and beyond.
Johor Baru City Council mayor Datuk Noorazam Osman said sports, particularly golf, played an important role in boosting tourism and promoting the state as a premier destination for international events.
He said Johor's extensive golf facilities positioned the state as a golf haven.