Bukit Jawi Golf Resort

Bukit Jawi Golf Resort in Sungai Bakap, on the southern mainland side of Penang, is a 36-hole venue with two very different personalities. Both par-72 parkland courses opened in 1992 and were designed by Khor Kheng Teik and Wong Yew Kuan, and the resort sits about 45 minutes from Penang International Airport and around 20 kilometres from Penang Island.

The Hill Course is all about elevation. Long, undulating fairways define it, and six to seven holes call for blind, uphill tee shots, so local knowledge helps. From the blue tees it measures 6,385 metres (about 6,950 yards), with a course rating of 73.3 and a slope of 137. Standout holes include the par-3 12th, guarded by a lake in front, and the demanding par-4 17th with its steeply sloped green. Fairways are Japanese Zoysia and the greens are Bermuda grass.

The Lakes Course is about water, which comes into play on more than half the holes, so it rewards accuracy over length. Its signature is the par-3 15th, an island green surrounded by water and bunkers, and the par-4 18th finishes with an island section of fairway that demands a well-placed drive. From the blue tees it plays to roughly 6,700 yards, with a course rating of 72.9 and a slope of 132.

Practice facilities are strong: a 48-bay driving range, chipping and putting areas and a golf academy with teaching professionals. Caddies, carts and rental clubs are available, and credit cards are accepted. The clubhouse has restaurants and banquet space, along with a fitness centre, sauna and swimming pool.

Playing both courses over a weekend is a popular plan for visiting groups. With CoGolfers you can host golf games at Bukit Jawi and fill the tee sheet with members of the CoGolfers community, or join golf games others have created. Meet golfers in Penang and Seberang Perai, find golf partners and connect with golfers near you who enjoy strategic target golf.