The $60 Championship Loop: Why Kuching is the Best Kept Secret of 2026
While most Singaporean golfers are fighting for ferry tickets to Batam, a smarter move is hiding 90 minutes away. Kuching, Sarawak, is currently the highest “Value-per-Swing” destination in Southeast Asia.
In 2026, Kuching remains a time capsule where green fees are low, the seafood is fresh, and the courses are world-class. If you are looking for a DTC-style bargain for your next trip, this is it.
🛡️ 2026 Travel Logistics
- Flights: Direct 1h 30m via Scoot or AirAsia from Changi (SIN) to Kuching (KCH).
- New Requirement: All travelers must submit the MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card) online within 3 days before arrival.
⛳ The Kuching “Value” Loop: Courses & Cost
Kuching offers a unique “Rainforest vs. City” golf experience. You can play an Arnold Palmer masterpiece in the morning and be back for $4 Sarawak Laksa by noon.
| Golf Course | Rating | Distance from Hotel | Weekday (SGD) | Weekend (SGD) |
| Damai Golf & CC | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 45 mins | $55 | $85 |
| Kelab Golf Sarawak | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 15 mins | $45 | $65 |
| Prisons GC (9H) | ⭐⭐⭐ | 20 mins | $15 | $25 |
Note: Rates are 2026 estimates including green fees and sharing buggy (approx. 3.3 MYR to 1 SGD).
1. Damai Golf & Country Club (The Showstopper)
This is the first Arnold Palmer-designed course in Malaysia. It features two distinct nines: the Mountain Nine (jungle terrain) and the Ocean Nine (South China Sea views). It is widely considered one of the most scenic tracks in East Malaysia. Consequently, it is a must-play for any visiting golfer.
2. Kelab Golf Sarawak (KGS)
KGS is a massive 36-hole complex. It is the heart of Sarawakian golf. The Matang/Santubong course is the more challenging of the two. Because it is only 15 minutes from the city center, it is the perfect “Day 1” round after you land.
3. Prisons Golf Club
For the ultra-budget traveler, this 9-hole course offers the cheapest round in the region. It is basic, but it is the perfect place to test your new indoor speed training without breaking the bank.
🏨 Accommodation: Modern Luxury in the Heart of Food
Recommended Hotel: Sheraton Kuching Hotel
- Cost: ~$150 – $180 SGD per night.
- Why it wins: Opened recently, this is the premier 5-star stay in the city. It is located steps away from the waterfront and the legendary Top Spot Food Court.
✈️ The 3-Day “Kuching Laksa” Itinerary
Day 1: The City Loop
- Morning: Land at KCH and grab a $4 Sarawak Laksa at Choon Hui Cafe.
- Afternoon: Play 18 holes at Kelab Golf Sarawak.
- Evening: Walk to Top Spot Food Court. Order the Midin (jungle fern) and black pepper crab.
Day 2: The Palmer Experience
- Morning (7:30 AM): Drive out to Damai Golf & CC. Play 18 holes between the mountains and the sea.
- Afternoon: Relax at Damai Beach or visit the Sarawak Cultural Village next door.
- Evening: Head back to the city for Kolo Mee and a sunset walk along the Kuching Waterfront.
Day 3: The Quick 9 & Departure
- Morning: Squeeze in a quick 9 at Prisons GC or do some last-minute shopping for Sarawak pepper.
- Afternoon: Flight back to Singapore.
🚀 The “Budget Golfer” Verdict
Kuching is the ultimate “No-Stress” trip. The green fees are half the price of Johor, the food is legendary, and the courses are rarely crowded. It is the perfect destination for the golfer who values soul and scenery over expensive club memberships.
Check out our 2026 HDB Speed Training guide to gain 10mph before you take on the Mountain Nine at Damai.
Looking for more volcano vibes? Read our guide to Golfing under Mount Merapi in Yogyakarta.
Save on gear so you can spend on travel—here are the Best DTC Golf Balls of 2026.