It’s golf, travel, connection

FOR more than a decade, Kelly Tan has been Malaysia’s standard bearer on the global stage – an LPGA veteran, two-time Olympian and one of the region’s recognisable touring pros.

Her journey from national junior to the world’s biggest tours has made her a touchstone for aspiring golfers across Asean, especially young women who see in her a pathway that once felt distant.

Few Malaysian players have logged as many miles, played as many elite courses or carried the national flag as consistently.

It’s from that vantage point that Kelly views the Maybank Asean Golf Getaway, the region’s premier programme for golfers seeking elevated, thoughtfully curated experiences at some of Asia’s finest courses, clubs and resorts.

Designed as luxurious escapes with a strong sense of individuality – and in some cases exclusivity – the initiative blends

world-class golf with seamless travel, premium hospitality and the kind of access that turns a trip into a memory.

For Kelly, it’s more than a travel offering – it’s a catalyst for inspiration, connection and growth within the regional game.

Central Vietnam resorts are among the Maybank Asean Golf Getaway programme. — Courtesy photo

Following are excerpts of TeeUp’s interview:

Q: How do you see the Maybank Asean Golf Getaway elevating golf travel for Malaysians and beyond?

A: The Maybank Asean Golf Getaway makes golf travel much more accessible and convenient. It gives golfers the opportunity to experience first-class courses across the region. More importantly, it encourages more people to travel, play and connect through golf.

Q: You’ve played some of the top courses in the world. What stands out to you about the courses featured in the Maybank Asean Golf Getaway?

A: What stands out is diversity. Every course offers a different experience – from the mountain scenery of Alpine Chiang Mai to the championship challenge of Royale Jakarta. Golfers get to enjoy great course conditions while experiencing the unique culture and character of each destination.

Q: How important is a programme like this for inspiring more Malaysians – especially women and juniors – to travel, play and experience golf beyond our borders?

A: As someone who came through grassroots development and eventually reached the

LPGA Tour, I know how valuable it is to experience different courses, cultures, and competitive environments. Hopefully through the Maybank Asean Golf Getaway, it can inspire the next generation to dream bigger.

Q: The programme highlights seamless travel, confirmed tee times, transfers, hotel stays, and Maybank’s 25% Malaysia Airlines airfare savings. From a touring pro’s perspective, how much does that kind of convenience matter?

A: It matters a lot. As professional golfers, we spend so much time travelling, and having tee times, accommodation and transport arranged, and it allows us to focus on the job, and experience. Convenience reduces stress and makes the entire golf trip more enjoyable.

Q: If you were recommending one of the Maybank Asean Golf Getaway courses to a Malaysian golfer looking for a memorable round, which layout would you point to?

A: I would probably say Alpine Chiang Mai. The course is beautiful, challenging and surrounded by incredible scenery. It offers a wonderful experience for golfers of all skill levels and shows why golf travel can be so special. Chiang Mai is also one of my favourite places to visit in Thailand.

Q: Golf trips often create friendships and memories. What do you think Malaysian golfers gain from exploring Asean courses together?

A: Yes, travelling together creates shared experiences, friendships and memories that last long after the trip is over. Exploring different courses across Asean also helps golfers appreciate the diversity and hospitality that make our region so unique. And not forgetting all the good food around Asean too.

Q: You’ve represented Malaysia on the biggest stages. How do programmes like this help build a stronger regional golf ecosystem that supports future Malaysian pros?

A: A strong golf ecosystem starts with participation.

The more people play, travel and engage with the game, the stronger that foundation becomes. Programmes like the Maybank Asean Golf Getaway help create that interest while reinforcing Maybank’s long-term commitment to growing golf and supporting future generations of Malaysian players.

For more information, call [phone], email [e-mail] or visit maybank.my/aseangolf.