Singapore is known for its wealth, ranking third in the world for per capita GDP. Despite its affluent population, golf is not as popular in the country as one might expect. There are fewer than a dozen private golf clubs remaining in the region, and as of July 1, 2024, Singapore no longer has an 18-hole public golf course as Marina Bay Golf Course has permanently closed. Even with a boost in golf due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the facility was unable to stay open as the value of land in the area continued to rise.
Golfers in Singapore expressed regret at the closure of Marina Bay Golf Course, a Phil Jacobs-designed course renowned for its unique features such as a par-3 island hole and a par-6 hole. The course also offered night golf, allowing players to enjoy the game in relief from the tropical heat. Despite the popularity of the facility during the pandemic, the government announced in 2014 that it would not be renewing the club’s lease when it expired in 2024.
While an executive 9-hole course remains in the northern part of Singapore, playing golf in the region has become extremely expensive. For example, membership at Sentosa Golf Club, which has 36 holes, starts at over $350,000. Foreigners looking to join these private clubs may face membership fees closer to $1 million. Limited membership availability is expected to drive up prices further, as the government may repurpose golf course land for other facilities in demand.
For many expatriates and locals in Singapore, the closure of Marina Bay Golf Course means fewer options for playing golf locally. Many are choosing to travel overseas for a game instead of justifying the high costs of joining a private club in Singapore. Lee Langdale, owner of Singolf, believes that the closure of the public golf course will not make Singapore any less attractive for foreigners, as most expats do not have much time to play golf anyway.
Despite the challenges faced by golfers in Singapore, the closure of Marina Bay Golf Course signifies a shift in the availability and affordability of playing golf in the country. While the golfing community mourns the loss of a well-loved course, players are adapting by exploring other options and considering alternatives such as playing abroad. The future of golf in Singapore remains uncertain, but the passion for the sport among residents and expatriates continues to drive them to seek out new experiences and opportunities to play.
