THE Maybank Championship Asean Qualifier is back and returns as one of the key developmental events in South-East Asian women’s golf.
Set for Tuesday and Wednesday on the West Course of Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club, the tournament has grown into the region’s premier gateway for emerging women’s talent – a tournament where dreams of competing on the LPGA Tour can be realised after 36 holes.
Now in its third year, the Asean Qualifier is the cornerstone of Maybank’s commitment to establishing opportunities for women in sport,and strengthening the region’s elite development pathway.
This year’s event will see 78 players drawn from five Asean nations – Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand – compete for five sponsor’s invitations at the Maybank Championship 2026, scheduled for Oct 1 to Nov 2, on the LPGA Tour.
Like the two previous events, this week represents the most important 36 holes of the season for these aspiring players.
The field comprises 42 professionals and 36 elite amateurs, with 33 debutants and 45 returning players, clearly illustrating its rising profile.
The five players who emerge as qualifiers this week will earn their place alongside the galaxy of LPGA stars at the Maybank Championship – a rare and invaluable opportunity for regional golfers.
Malaysia will feature 23 players, offering a mix of seasoned campaigners alongside exciting young prospects.
Among the debuts will be Foong Zi Yu, 21, fresh off her breakthrough victory at the Malaysian Ladies Amateur Open and currently competing for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
At the other end of the age spectrum is Amelia Lee, 16, one of the youngest entrants in the tournament and part of a new generation of juniors eager to test themselves against the region’s best.
Returning Malaysian contenders include Liyana Durisic, Winnie Ng, Ng Jing Xuen, Jocelyn Chee, Nur Durriyah Damian and Zulaikah Nasser – all familiar names with experience in high level regional competition.
Thailand once again arrives with the largest contingent – 42 players in all – and several of the tournament favourites.
Kritchanya Kaopattanaskul, 18, returns as the defending champion, having won the 2025 Qualifier with a seven-under-par performance that included a spectacular hole in one. Her composure and scoring ability make her a formidable threat.
Joining her is Achiraya Sriwong, 18, the field’s highest ranked amateur – 23rd on the World Amateur Golf Rankings (WAGR) – and the reigning Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation Junior Championships ladies’ champion.
She finished runner-up here last year and is widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents in all of Asia.
Another Thai standout is Marisa Tojai, 17, who arrives on the back of a breakout season featuring four WAGR wins.
Indonesia’s challenge will be spearheaded by Ida Ayu Indira Melati Putri, 29, winner of the inaugural 2024 Asean Qualifier, while Singapore’s Inez Ng, 23, a University of North Carolina scholar athlete, adds further depth to the field.
The West Course has been prepared to mirror the conditions of those in last year’s Maybank Championship.
According to Mohd Nizam Othman, director of agronomy, the greens will be fast, true and smooth, with speeds just over 11 feet on the Stimpmeter, and achieved through double cutting and rolling.
The fairways will be maintained at 13mm, while the rough will sit at 44mm, creating a premium on precision and consistent ball striking.
No changes have been made to the layout, but firmer greens and fairways are expected to provide a demanding championship test.
The setup is designed to reflect the rising competitiveness of the field and ensure that the five qualifiers earn their LPGA berths on merit and amid world-class conditions.
Running alongside the Asean Qualifier is the Maybank Championship Experience, a curated programme offering Maybank clients an immersive look into tournament week through exclusive activities with LPGA professionals and partners.
The initiative aims to deepen engagement with golfing communities and build momentum towards the Maybank Championship later this year.
With only five spots available and a field brimming with talent, the Maybank Championship Asean Qualifier 2026 promises drama, intensity and breakthrough performances.
For many of these players, this week is not just about a tournament, but rather a gateway – a chance to step onto the LPGA stage and showcase South-East Asian golf to the world.
