Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin
GOLF is a sport often engaged in for several purposes, including exercising, networking with business associates and just having a jolly time with family and friends.
For professionals, it’s about making and earning a living – in the case of successful players, a lucrative one at that.
Indeed, this is what the sport has become known for across the globe.
It remains a popular mainstream sport and an enjoyable pastime for many elderly people, those on holiday or those with some time to while away.
But it goes beyond even this, says Perodua chairman Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin during the launch of the tournament series that bears the automaker’s name.
“Golf has many attributes that can help people, or players, become better people, or better players,” said Asmat as he spoke about Perodua’s involvement in sport – not only golf but badminton too, among others.
“In the case of golf, it is a sport that is built on one’s integrity, in that there are no referees or umpires watching your every move during play.
“A lot of the time, you will police your own game, write down your scores, and tell the story of your game from your point of view only, with no input from anyone else.
“That is why they say golf is about integrity, honesty and total fairness.
“That is why this game can teach a person to build good characteristics in adhering to sound ethics and strong moral values.”
Asmat’s speech on upholding the integrity of the sport and one’s own standing came at an opportune time, given that Perodua National Golf Series gets underway with the first leg at Mines Golf Club today.
Asmat’s insights were echoed by Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, who added that good sportsmanship and honesty in the game should be the cornerstone of all players’ approach to sport.
The highlight of the event will be the national final hosted at Forest City Golf Resort in Johor from Sept 8 to 10.
Champions from five handicap categories at the national final will get the opportunity to represent Malaysia at the World Amateur Golfers Championship in Phuket, Thailand, from Oct 26 to Nov 3.
