Meticulous and careful upgrade by in-house agronomy team offers a more beautiful and consistent play
DESARU COAST, Johor, Malaysia – The Ridge Course at The Els Club Desaru Coast reopened on April 1 following a comprehensive 12-month enhancement programme carried out entirely by the club’s agronomy team.
The work on the Ridge Course, one of the three nines at the Ernie Els Signature Design Ocean Course, reflects the venues commitment in delivering an exceptional golf experiences while maintaining the integrity of its original design. The Els Club Desaru Coast is managed by Troon with the work supported Troon’s international division.
Fairways have been carefully re-grassed to deliver healthier and more consistent playing surfaces, while all bunkers have been fully refurbished with new sand. In addition, bunker drainage systems have been upgraded to ensure optimal performance in varying weather conditions. The work reflects a structured agronomic approach consistent with Troon International agronomy standards across its global portfolio.
“The reopening of the Ridge Course marks an important milestone for us. This improvement initiative demonstrates our ongoing dedication to elevating the golf experience, ensuring our courses remain among the finest in the region. We look forward to welcoming golfers to experience these improvements firsthand,” said The Els Club Desaru Coast General Manager Harris Abdullah.
Landscaping improvements have also been introduced to further highlight the natural coastal beauty of the course, creating a more visually striking and enjoyable experience for golfers. To complement the refreshed course conditions, a new fleet of golf carts will be introduced, offering enhanced comfort and convenience throughout the round.
“These enhancements were carried out entirely by our own team, reflecting our long-term commitment to quality and playability,” said Yong Fan Wee, the Director of Agronomy. “Our focus has been on delivering smoother fairways, well-defined bunker and overall course conditioning that enhances both playability and visual appeal.”
The project has been supported throughout by Troon International, the international division of Troon, the world’s largest golf hospitality management company. David Lunardelli, Director of Agronomy & Operations, Asia Pacific, Troon, said: “These enhancements further reinforce The Els Club Desaru Coast’s commitment to providing world-class facilities aligned with Troon’s focus on quality across our international portfolio.
The team has truly delivered measurable improvements in turf quality and infrastructure while preserving the original design, ensuring the Ridge Course performs to the expectations of both local and international golfers.”
To celebrate the reopening, golfers will have the exclusive opportunity throughout April 2026 to experience all three nines of the Ocean Course – Ridge, Coast and Lakes Course within a single month. This limited-time availability comes ahead of the Lakes Course entering its next phase of major renovation beginning May 1.
“With the reopening of the Ridge Course and the opportunity to experience all three nines this April, we are excited to offer golfers a truly unique experience at Desaru Coast. Together with our resort partners, this also presents an ideal time for travellers to plan a complete golf getaway destination,” said Director of Sales & Marketing Edwin Check.
With its enhanced conditions and breathtaking coastal setting, the reopening marks an exciting new chapter for The Els Club Desaru Coast, inviting golfers to rediscover the Ridge Course at its very best.
For more information about the club or latest news and offerings, please visit The Els Club Desaru Coast website.