Golf has long been seen as a sport of patience and precision, but in Singapore, it’s increasingly becoming a sport of privilege. The closure of public golf courses has made it harder for beginners and casual players to find affordable golf lessons Singapore learners can access.
For years, venues like Mandai Executive Golf Course provided an accessible entry into the game, but as these spaces disappear, many wonder if golf is now reserved for private club members. While outdoor options are shrinking, the good news is that alternatives still exist. From golf academies to indoor simulators, aspiring players have new ways to pick up the sport.
If you’re looking to get started, here’s what you need to know.
Summary
The impending closure of public golf courses in Singapore has raised concerns among the golfing community about the future accessibility of the sport. National junior golfer Irvyn Tan, who developed his skills at the Mandai Executive Golf Course, highlights the crucial role public courses play in nurturing new talent. With the closure of Champions Public Golf Course and the upcoming shutdown of Marina Bay’s 18-hole course, Mandai will be the last public golf facility by the end of 2024. Though granted a temporary two-year extension, its eventual closure in 2026 could significantly impact player development and deter newcomers from taking up the sport. Coaches and industry professionals fear that the reduction in public facilities will make golf an elitist pursuit, accessible only to those who can afford expensive country club memberships or overseas trips. Efforts by the Singapore Golf Association and initiatives like indoor golf training aim to sustain interest, but many argue they cannot fully replace the experience of outdoor play.
Reflection: The Future of Public Golf in Singapore
The slow disappearance of public golf courses in Singapore raises an important question: is golf becoming a sport only for the privileged? Once a game that anyone could pick up at places like Mandai Executive Golf Course, golf is now at risk of becoming an exclusive pastime, limited to those who can afford expensive country club memberships.
For years, public courses have been the entry point for beginners, offering an affordable and accessible way to learn the game. Without them, young talents like national junior golfer Irvyn Tan may never have had the chance to develop their skills. The recent closures of Champions Public Golf Course and Marina Bay’s 18-hole course only worsen the situation. While Mandai has been granted a temporary extension, it will eventually shut its doors by 2026. This leaves Keppel Club’s limited public slots as one of the few remaining options—a far cry from the 17 golf facilities available in 2006.
Golf has long struggled with the perception that it is a rich person’s game. In Singapore, that image may soon become a reality. Without accessible courses, aspiring golfers will have little choice but to travel overseas or turn to costly alternatives. Indoor golf facilities may help fill the gap, but they cannot replace the experience of playing on a real course.
If Singapore wants to keep golf open to all, it must find a way to preserve public access. The government and golfing bodies should explore solutions—whether by extending Mandai’s lease, developing new public courses, or integrating golf into school programmes. Otherwise, we risk shutting the door on future generations of golfers before they even get a chance to swing their first club.
Where to Learn Golf in Singapore: Tips and Recommendations
With the decline of public golf courses in Singapore, finding accessible and affordable golf instructions has become more challenging. However, there are still ways to pick up the sport without breaking the bank. Here are some practical tips and recommendations to help you get started.
1. Consider Public Golf Facilities While They Last
If you want to experience outdoor golf without committing to a country club membership, Mandai Executive Golf Course remains the most accessible option—at least until its lease ends in 2026. This beginner-friendly course is ideal for new players to practice on real greens. Take advantage of it while it’s still around.
2. Look for Certified Golf Academies
Several golf academies in Singapore cater to beginners and advanced players alike. Some well-known ones include Honshin Golf Academy (which trained national junior golfer Irvyn Tan), SgGolfCoach, and Star Golf Academy. These academies offer structured training programs, ensuring you develop proper techniques from the start.
3. Try Indoor Golf for Year-Round Practice
With outdoor options shrinking, indoor golf facilities provide an alternative way to learn. Places like GolfX offer high-tech simulators that allow players to practice their swing and improve accuracy without weather disruptions. While it’s not the same as playing on an actual course, it’s a great way to sharpen your skills conveniently.
4. Join Group Lessons for a More Affordable Option
Private golf instructions can be costly, but many academies and clubs offer group classes at a lower rate. This is a budget-friendly way to receive professional instruction while meeting other golfers at the same skill level. Group settings also make the learning process more enjoyable and less intimidating for beginners.
5. Explore Golf Programmes in Schools and Community Centres
The Singapore Golf Association (SGA) has been working on initiatives to introduce golf into schools and public sports programmes. If you have children interested in golf, check with their school or community clubs for beginner-friendly courses. Early exposure in school settings can be a cost-effective way to get started.
6. Consider Driving Ranges for Practice
Even if public golf courses are disappearing, Singapore still has a few driving ranges where you can practise your swings. These include Marina Bay Golf Range, Mandai Golf Range, and National Service Resort & Country Club (NSRCC). Many of these facilities offer lessons or have professionals on-site to help beginners get started.
7. Be Open to Travelling for Golf
If you’re serious about golf, you may need to consider playing overseas. Nearby destinations like Malaysia and Batam offer well-maintained courses at a fraction of the cost of Singapore’s country clubs. Some golf schools even organise weekend training trips, providing a full golfing experience without the long-term commitment of a local club membership.
Conclusion
The reality is clear—public golf spaces in Singapore are shrinking, and the sport risks becoming a luxury for the few rather than a game for all. While Mandai’s temporary extension provides some relief, the long-term outlook remains uncertain. Yet, this doesn’t mean aspiring golfers should give up. By seeking out golf academies, indoor facilities, and driving ranges, beginners can still find ways to learn and practice. And if the sport is to remain open to all, it will take a collective effort—from players, coaches, and organisations—to advocate for greater accessibility. After all, every great golfer starts somewhere, and in Singapore, that ‘somewhere’ needs to remain within reach.
