After an absence of a year, the 2007 Maybank Malaysian Open will return to the Saujana Golf & Country Club in Kuala Lumpur from February 8-11, 2007, featuring a total prize fund of US$1.29 million.
The 2006 event was won by Korean Charlie Wi at Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club but the tournament will return to a venue which saw Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee win in consecutive years in 2004 and 2005 and which has hosted the event four times in total since it became part of The European Tour International Schedule in 1999.
Building on the achievements of last year’s event when Maybank became sponsors for the first time, Maybank will expand on their golf programme through a host of peripheral events in the lead up to the Malaysian Open.
President and CEO of Maybank, YBhg Datuk Amirsham, said: “We look forward to another successful event and the opportunity of enhancing our commitment to this worldwide golfing event. This year, we will be increasing our involvement and incorporating a host of golf related activities which will culminate with the Malaysian Open in February 2007. It’s all about getting people excited and involved.
“The aim of this year’s pre-event program is two fold. We wish to build up involvement and create interest among all golfers, not just professionals, but at the same time, we want to go beyond the golfing fraternity and reach out to the non-golfing public.
“That’s why we have also introduced a Maybank Malaysian Open road show around Malaysia with a carnival-like atmosphere hoping to promote golf to a wider Malaysian audience. Visitors will be able try out the inflatable driving range or get some tips from a professional. It’s meant for all ages.
“We want to give everyone the opportunity to give golf a try and enjoy the game of golf, whether as a player or as a spectator. This carnival like atmosphere will be replicated at the Maybank Malaysian Open as there will be a range of other activities for the public during the event; including longest drive competitions, putting competitions, exhibitions, trick-shot shows, and stroke correction clinics.”
Keith Waters, Director of International Policy for The European Tour, said: “The return to Saujana and the sponsorship of Maybank further enhances the reputation and profile of the Malaysian Open. It was the first co-sanctioned event between The European Tour and the Asian Tour and we have enjoyed a wonderful relationship since 1999 which continues to this day.”
