It’s been a remarkable few years for Singapore golf, world-class tournaments, a vibrant calendar, and growing fan engagement. From your perspective, what’s driving this momentum, and where do you see the biggest opportunities for further growth?
Tan Chong Huat: I believe the momentum comes from a shared commitment across the entire golf ecosystem. It is not the work of any single organisation, but the collective efforts of our stakeholders, government agencies, commercial partners, sponsors, volunteers, and golf clubs within the golfing ecosystem in Singapore.
Over the past few years, Singapore has successfully hosted prestigious events such as the World Amateur Team Championships, we started the inaugural Singapore Women’s Open, revived the Singapore Open along with several international amateur tournaments, including the South East Asian Amateur Golf Team Championship. These events have strengthened Singapore’s reputation as a trusted host while creating valuable opportunities for our local players to compete against world-class fields.
Equally encouraging is the growth in participation. We have witnessed a 17% growth from 120,000 golfers in 2022 to 140,000 in 2025. More Singaporeans are discovering golf through schools, community programmes, indoor facilities and technology-driven formats that make the game more accessible than ever before.
Looking ahead, our greatest opportunity lies in continuing to broaden participation while strengthening player pathways. We want more people to see golf as a lifelong sport, while ensuring our talented juniors have clear opportunities to progress from grassroots participation to elite competitions.
As Chairman of the ASEAN Golf Federation, you have a unique vantage point on the region’s golfing landscape. What are the most exciting trends or emerging opportunities you currently see for golf development across Southeast Asia?
Tan Chong Huat: Southeast Asia is one of the most exciting regions for golf today. We have young populations, growing economies and an increasing interest in sport and wellness.
Our flagship event Southeast Asian Amateur Team Golf Championship (also known as Putra Cup), has over 60 years of history in providing a platform for top young talents to compete and also forge friendships that will last a lifetime. This event is rotated amongst the Southeast Asian nations.
One trend I find particularly encouraging is the willingness of our member federations to work more closely together. Rather than operating independently, we are seeing greater collaboration in organising championships, sharing expertise and creating more opportunities for our athletes.
Another positive development is the growing investment in junior golf. Many countries are placing greater emphasis on long-term athlete development, recognising that today’s juniors will become tomorrow’s professionals and ambassadors for the sport.
At the ASEAN Golf Federation, we hope to continue strengthening these partnerships by creating more opportunities for competition, coach education and knowledge exchange. By working together, we can collectively raise the standard of golf throughout the region.
The golf industry globally is talking a lot about sustainability, from water management to course design. and the ASEAN region faces unique climate challenges. What trends do you see shaping the future of golf in this region, and what innovations and local distinctiveness are you most excited about?
Tan Chong Huat: Sustainability is no longer an option. It is a responsibility.
Golf courses today are becoming increasingly conscious of their environmental impact through better water management, improved turf practices, renewable energy initiatives and responsible biodiversity management.
In Southeast Asia, where climate conditions are unique, innovation will be essential. We have an opportunity to develop solutions that are specifically suited to our environment rather than simply adopting models from elsewhere.
At the same time, sustainability extends beyond environmental considerations. It is also about ensuring the long-term sustainability of our clubs, our talent pathways and our golfing communities.
Hosting world-class international events also provide the opportunity to learn from international experts and showcase sustainability initiatives.
The future of golf will depend on balancing environmental stewardship with economic viability and meaningful community engagement.
Golf is increasingly recognized not just as a sport, but as a powerful platform for business networking and lifestyle. From your perspective, how can regional golf federations better collaborate with corporate stakeholders to build a sustainable and thriving golf ecosystem?
Tan Chong Huat: Golf has always been about relationships. It brings together people from different industries, cultures and backgrounds in a unique environment built on trust, integrity and respect.
Corporate partnerships today are no longer simply about sponsorship. Increasingly, companies are looking to align themselves with organisations that share their values and create meaningful social impact.
This presents an opportunity for golf federations to build deeper, long-term partnerships that support youth development, community programmes, sustainability initiatives and high-performance sport.
When businesses see that their investment is creating lasting value, not only for elite athletes but also for communities and future generations, it becomes a genuine partnership rather than a commercial transaction.
Mr. Tan, please tell us about yourself, especially your distinguished career spanning law, business, and sports governance at the highest level in the region. What are the most profound philosophies and lessons you’ve learned along the way that have shaped your vision?
Tan Chong Huat: I have been fortunate to have had opportunities to serve in different sectors throughout my career, whether in law, business or sports administration. While they may appear different, they all have one thing in common – they are ultimately about people.
One lesson I have learned is that leadership is not about individual success. It is about bringing people together around a common purpose and enabling others to succeed.
In sports governance, this means listening carefully, building consensus and always making decisions with the long-term interests of the sport in mind.
Golf has taught me many valuable lessons—integrity, patience, humility and resilience. Those values continue to guide me both professionally and personally.
My vision has always been to leave the sport in a stronger position than when I first became involved. If we can build stronger institutions, create more opportunities for young people and inspire more individuals to enjoy golf, then I believe we have fulfilled our responsibility to the next generation.