Malaysia has been named the 2008 Asia and Australasian Golf Destination of the Year by those who truly know – the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO).

The award, presented at the association’s annual conference in Cancun, Mexico, is a significant acknowledgement of Malaysia’s achievement in promoting Malaysia as one of the world’s premier golfing destinations.

Malaysia features well over 200 different premium golf courses around the country, in settings as diverse as the lush green highlands and on the coast of the South China Sea.

Importantly, the country is regarded by golfing enthusiasts around the world as a year-round venue for their game.

IAGTO is the global trade organisation for the golfing industry, comprising 1,040 companies from 73 countries, including 320 specialist golf tour operators in 45 countries.

Last year Malaysia played host to more than 350,000 golfers in the country, generating RM723.5 million in associated revenue (USD212.8 million).