Johor Bahru, 26 June 2026 – Malaysia today officially launched the World Amateur Golfers Championship (WAGC) World Final 2026, marking another significant milestone in the nation’s golf tourism journey and reinforcing Johor’s position as one of Asia’s leading golf destinations.

Held at the Johor Tourism Information Centre (JOTIC), the media launch brought together representatives from Tourism Malaysia, Tourism Johor, the Johor Golf Tourism Association (JGTA), Delta World, Perodua, Desaru Coast, industry partners, sponsors and members of the media in a collective show of support for one of the world’s most prestigious amateur golf championships.

Returning to Johor for the second time and to Malaysia for the fifth time, the WAGC World Final 2026 will take place from 23 to 31 October 2026 at Desaru Coast, Johor.

The championship is expected to welcome more than 650 amateur golfers and delegates from over 50 countries, generating substantial economic spillovers across the tourism value chain, including accommodation, transportation, food and beverage, retail, recreation and local services.

The event aligns closely with the aspirations of Visit Johor 2026 and Visit Malaysia 2026, serving as a strategic platform to drive international visitor arrivals, increase tourism receipts and elevate Malaysia’s global profile as a premier golf tourism destination.

The launch programme featured a vibrant cultural showcase celebrating Johor’s rich heritage, followed by a multimedia presentation unveiling the theme “WAGC World Final 2026 – The Race to Desaru Coast, Johor, Malaysia.”

 The championship will be hosted at Desaru Coast, one of Southeast Asia’s premier integrated destination resorts, with official accommodation provided by Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast and The Westin Desaru Coast Resort.

Tournament play will be held across three internationally acclaimed golf courses especially The Els Club Desaru Coast, Forest City Golf Resort, and Tanjung Puteri Golf Resort highlighting Johor’s exceptional golf infrastructure and world-class

The WAGC World Final 2026 also welcomes new participating countries, including Austria, Azerbaijan, Cyprus, El Salvador, Georgia, Ireland, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Thailand and Ukraine, further expanding the championship’s global footprint and reinforcing its role as a platform for international friendship, cultural exchange and business networking through sport.

The official launch concluded with the symbolic WAGC Wall of Support Signing Ceremony, reflecting the collective commitment of stakeholders towards delivering a successful championship.

Speaking at the launch, WAGC President, Mr Isac Saminathan, said:”The WAGC World Final is more than a golf tournament; it is a global platform that brings people, cultures and opportunities together through sport. We are delighted to return to Johor, a destination that offers outstanding golf facilities, exceptional hospitality and memorable visitor experiences. The timing of this championship is particularly significant as it supports both Visit Johor and Visit Malaysia 2026.”

President of the Johor Golf Tourism Association (JGTA), Col. (R) Mohd Jamal Salleh, said: “Johor is honoured to host the WAGC World Final for the second time, reflecting the confidence of the international golf community in our ability to deliver world-class events. With our diverse portfolio of championship golf courses, integrated resorts and strong industry collaboration, Johor is uniquely positioned to offer an exceptional experience for golfers and visitors alike.”

“This championship is not only about golf; it is about showcasing Johor’s strengths as a vibrant tourism destination and creating meaningful economic opportunities for local communities and businesses.”

Director of Tourism Johor, En Mohammad Nazrul Abd Rahim, said: “The WAGC World Final 2026 demonstrates the power of strategic collaboration between government agencies, tourism stakeholders and industry partners in positioning Johor as a leading golf tourism hub in the region.”

“Beyond the fairways, this championship invites visitors to discover the best of Johor – from our pristine beaches and islands to our cultural heritage, culinary experiences, nature attractions, shopping destinations, educational institutions and world-class healthcare facilities. We are confident that every participant will leave Johor with lasting memories and a desire to return.”

Tourism Malaysia Chairman, YBhg. Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, said: “The WAGC World Final 2026 presents a significant opportunity to further strengthen Malaysia’s position as a premier sports tourism destination, particularly in the golf segment. Events of this scale deliver substantial economic benefits, stimulate tourism-related spending and contribute meaningfully towards the objectives of Visit Malaysia 2026.”

“Through the collective efforts of Tourism Malaysia, Tourism Johor, JGTA and our industry partners, we look forward to welcoming participants and visitors from around the world to experience Malaysia’s renowned hospitality, world-class golfing facilities and diverse tourism offerings. This prestigious championship will not only showcase Malaysia’s excellence as a golfing destination but also reinforce the country’s appeal as a vibrant and competitive tourism hub in the region.”

The Johor Golf Tourism Association and Delta World extend their appreciation to all strategic partners and sponsors, including Tourism Malaysia, Tourism Johor, Perodua (Presenting Partner), The Els Club Desaru Coast, Forest City Golf Resort, Tg Puteri Golf Resort, Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, and other supporting partners for their invaluable contributions towards the success of WAGC World Final 2026.

About the World Amateur Golfers Championship (WAGC)

Founded by Swedish sporting legend Sven Tumba, the World Amateur Golfers Championship (WAGC) is the world’s largest and most prestigious amateur golf tournament.

Guided by its mission, “Sport Promotes Friendship and Business,” WAGC provides amateur golfers from around the world with an opportunity to compete at an international level while fostering cultural exchange, friendship and business networking.

The 30th edition of the WAGC World Final will be held at Desaru Coast, Johor, Malaysia, from 23 to 31 October 2026, bringing together more than 650 golfers and delegates from over 50 countries.