The 18-hole golf course at Borneo Highlands is poised to open a significant new chapter for Sarawak’s sports tourism industry once its redevelopment is complete.
Situated at an elevation of 1,000 metres above sea level on the Penrissen Range, which straddles the Sarawak-Kalimantan border, the course offers a rare highland golfing experience often described as “playing in the clouds.” Only a handful of courses in Malaysia share this distinctive setting. The resort itself spans 5,000 acres within one of the world’s oldest rainforests, combining golf with luxury wellness facilities, hotel accommodation and a pristine natural backdrop.
This unique location gives Sarawak a competitive advantage in attracting high-value golf tourists. With effective development and promotion, Borneo Highlands could emerge as one of the state’s leading sports tourism attractions, comparable in draw to established events such as marathons, triathlons and the traditional Sarawak Regatta.
Golf Tourism Opportunity
Golf tourism is a fast-growing, high-value segment driven by global demand for distinctive courses and destinations. Sarawak has long relied primarily on Kelab Golf Kuching, established in the 1990s, and the Arnold Palmer-designed Damai Santubong Golf Resort near the coast. While the state has successfully leveraged its natural landscapes for activities such as rafting and hosted major sporting events including marathons, triathlons, veterans’ competitions and the World Badminton Masters, golf tourism has yet to reach its full potential.
Neighbouring Sabah has developed a stronger golf resort offering, with properties such as Magellan Sutera Resort, Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort and Spa, Nexus Resort and Spa Karambunai, and The Pacific Sutera. Peninsular Malaysia also features an extensive network of premium golf resorts across multiple states. Completing and promoting the Borneo Highlands project would allow Sarawak to capture a greater share of this market.
Redevelopment Plans
Originally opened in 1999, the Borneo Highlands resort closed following the COVID-19 pandemic. The golf course has remained largely idle for years while awaiting redevelopment. One longstanding challenge has been the difficult access road to the highland plateau, which deterred many visitors.
The Sarawak government, through the Sarawak Land Custody Development Authority (LCDA) and private investors, has prioritised improvements to road access and connectivity. The redevelopment, now targeted for completion in mid-2029 after a 36-month construction period, includes upgrading the golf course and clubhouse, developing a wellness centre and hotels, and enhancing overall accessibility.
A key focus will be improving the fairways to meet the standards required for international events. Developers must also address the challenges of the equatorial climate, particularly heavy rainfall, to ensure the course remains playable and competitive. Additional amenities such as hotels and a theme park are expected to broaden the resort’s appeal beyond golfers to include families and leisure travellers.
Wider Regional Development
Located in the Padawan district, Borneo Highlands forms part of a larger government-led initiative to create an integrated economic zone centred on culture, adventure and nature. Nearby attractions, including the Annah Rais and Benuk longhouses, offer strong potential for community-based ecotourism and cultural experiences that can complement the golf and wellness offerings.
Once completed, the redeveloped Borneo Highlands resort is positioned to become a distinctive highland destination that strengthens Sarawak’s profile in the regional golf tourism market.
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