Indonesia one of best golfing destinations in SE Asia

Indonesia is regarded as one of the best golfing destination in Southeast Asia with over 180 golf courses spreading across its many islands, Indonesian officials said.

John Eu, chief executive officer of GlobalOne, praised that Indonesia has one of the best golfing destinations in Southeast Asia. Every golf course is designed with special features useful for increasing golfers' experiences, he said.

Japanese golfer Singho Katayama, Chinese Liang Wenchong and Singaporean Mardan Mamat, all said during the Indonesia Open held from Jul.2 to Jul.4, that they liked the golf course design but the course also posed tough challenges for them.

Arifin Panigoro, chairman of Indonesian Golf Association, said that he believed the country is able to provide outstanding experiences to all golfers from all over the world to enjoy golf.

"Besides, many world-class golf courses in Jakarta are within an hour's drive from the city center, and they are really beautiful with different views," said Arie Budhiman, head of Jakarta City Government of Tourism and Culture Office.

Most important is that the city has a growing pool of playing talent, said Fauzie Bowo, governor of Jakarta.

"Golf has always been a popular sport for many people in Indonesia, particularly in Jakarta," he said.