Golf is Getting Younger

How Malaysia is Catching Up With the Global Youth Golf Movement

Golf is no longer just a game for retirees or business executives. Across the globe, a youthful wave is revitalizing the sport. From teenage pros making headlines on the PGA and LPGA tours, to social media influencers turning driving ranges into viral content hubs, golf is having a youth moment. The question is: how is Malaysia riding this global wave?

The Global Youth Golf Boom

Over the past decade, global golf bodies like the PGA Tour, R&A, and USGA have invested heavily in youth development. Junior golf programs, interactive apps, and social media content have reshaped the image of golf from stiff and exclusive to fresh, fun, and inclusive. Platforms like YouTube and TikTok now feature creators like Good Good Golf and Paige Spiranac who are making golf approachable and entertaining for younger audiences.

Golf apparel, too, has undergone a transformation. Brands now highlight style, comfort, and individuality, moving away from traditional polos and khakis. Gen Z is embracing golf not just as a sport but a lifestyle.

Malaysia's Junior Golf Scene: Gaining Momentum

Malaysia, while traditionally slower to adapt, is beginning to catch up. Junior golf tournaments like the PGM Junior Series and the SportExcel circuit are growing in popularity. Many golf clubs now offer weekend programs for children, with coaches trained to make learning fun and interactive.

School-based golf programs under MSSM (Majlis Sukan Sekolah-Sekolah Malaysia) have been instrumental in introducing golf to younger students. Private academies such as MST Golf Academy and Kids Golf World are also nurturing talents with world-class training.

Rising stars like Jeneath Wong and Ervin Chang are becoming role models, showing that Malaysians can succeed internationally if given the right exposure and support from an early age.

Challenges: Access and Affordability

Despite these positive strides, several challenges remain. Golf in Malaysia is still perceived as expensive and exclusive. Club memberships, green fees, and equipment can be a barrier for many families. Public golf courses are limited, and school-level infrastructure varies across states.

There’s also a gap in sponsorships and media visibility for junior players. While the PGM Tour offers a platform, more needs to be done to spotlight youth events and nurture homegrown talent.

Culture Shift: Golf is Fun, Fashionable and Social

A major factor in the youth golf boom is the cultural shift—golf is becoming cool. Social golf events, Instagrammable golf outfits, and content creators are making the sport feel more accessible and enjoyable.

In Malaysia, brands like Caerus are redefining golf fashion with bold designs and locally-inspired collections. Social golf groups and events are making golf more inclusive and community-driven.

TikTok and Instagram are also changing how golf is consumed. Malaysian golf creators are beginning to emerge, sharing tips, challenges, and lifestyle content that appeal to a younger crowd.

What’s Next for Youth Golf in Malaysia?

Malaysia has the talent and the passion. What’s needed is a more unified approach—public-private partnerships to make golf affordable, government support for school programs, and brands investing in the next generation.

Opportunities abound for:

~ Brands to sponsor junior tours or fashion collaborations

~ Golf clubs to open up short courses and beginner-friendly formats

~ Media to cover youth tournaments and highlight young golfers

~ Influencers to promote golf culture with local flavor

The youth golf movement is not a trend—it’s the future. With the right push, Malaysia can become a regional leader in developing young golfing talent and reshaping the sport’s image for generations to come.