Johor’s south-east coast is about to welcome a very international crowd. Desaru Coast has been named the host of the World Amateur Golfers Championship (WAGC) World Final 2026, bringing one of amateur golf’s biggest global gatherings to Malaysia.
The championship runs from 23 to 31 October 2026 and is expected to bring together around 650 amateur golfers and delegates from more than 50 countries. For Johor, it is another marker of the state’s growing reputation as a golf tourism destination.
Part of a bigger sporting calendar
Desaru Coast has been building this reputation for a while. It has previously hosted internationally recognised events such as IRONMAN 70.3 Desaru Coast and L’Etape Malaysia by Tour de France, alongside a regular calendar of cycling gatherings, automotive club drives and fitness bootcamps. Coming up in July is the Desaru Coast Multisports Festival presented by IRONMAN, which is expected to draw more than 1,000 participants and supporters.
Izrin Hashim, Chief Executive Officer of Desaru Development Holdings One Sdn Bhd, said hosting the final reflects the confidence international organisers have in the destination. “It is a privilege to host a championship of this calibre and showcase the best of what Johor has to offer to a global audience,” he said. The event also supports Visit Johor Year 2026 by drawing international attention to the state.
More than a tournament
Players and their guests will not be short of things to do. Desaru Coast spans luxury beachfront resorts, more than 20 restaurants and dining venues, pristine beaches, wellness experiences and family-friendly attractions. A Festival Village will run through the championship period with local markets, cultural performances and creative workshops built around Johor and Malaysian hospitality.
Championship-ready greens
The golf sits at The Els Club Desaru Coast, home to 45 holes across the Ocean Course by Ernie Els and the Valley Course designed in collaboration with Vijay Singh. The final also follows the recent reopening of the club’s Ridge Course after an enhancement programme that improved fairways, refurbished bunkers, upgraded drainage and refreshed landscaping.
Good to know
Event: WAGC World Final 2026
Dates: 23 to 31 October 2026
Location: Desaru Coast, Johor