From Tiger Woods to global dreams: Danny Millis on growing golf in Malaysia

Malaysia needs companies willing to invest in sponsorships, endorsements and grassroots programmes, he said.

WAN AHMAD  ATARMIZI
WAN AHMAD ATARMIZI
02 Feb 2025 02:00pm
Danny Millis.
Danny Millis.

MALAYSIAN professional golfer Danny Millis reflects on his journey from a young boy discovering golf to becoming a pro, overcoming personal challenges along the way.

Now, he is advocating for better golf infrastructure, media coverage and funding in Malaysia to ensure the sport’s growth and inspire the next generation.

Danny revealed that his passion for golf was deeply influenced by his parents, who frequently played and practiced at local golf clubs and driving ranges, giving him early exposure to the sport.

"I vividly remember watching Tiger Woods DVDs, which chronicled his extraordinary career and inspired me to pursue a similar path. By the time I was 13, I was determined to take golf seriously and set my sights on becoming a professional.

"However, the journey was not without its challenges. My biggest obstacle was my attitude, particularly my dislike for practice and my temper on the course during my early years.

"Overcoming this required tremendous effort, guidance from my parents and coaches and self-reflection," he said in an interview with Sinar Daily.

Danny's journey took a pivotal turn when he played college golf in the US. Immersed in an environment of driven athletes sharing the same aspirations, he gained a deeper insight into what it truly takes to achieve success.

Now, he embraces hard work with purpose, focusing on making his efforts both effective and fulfilling.

"Golf in Malaysia faces significant challenges, particularly in terms of perception and accessibility. The sport is often seen as expensive due to costly equipment and club memberships. To address this, Malaysia could learn from the examples set by Thailand and the US.

"Thailand has exceptional infrastructure for nurturing young talent, coupled with better access to the sport than most countries in Asia. In the US, public golf courses are plentiful, affordable and supported by the city’s government.

"For Malaysia to follow suit, local organisations need to establish affordable golf programmes and improve existing infrastructure, fostering grassroots participation," he added.

Danny Millis.
Danny Millis.

Danny highlighted the importance of media representation as another crucial issue.

He pointed out that while Malaysians can effortlessly identify icons like Datuk Lee Chong Wei or Datuk Nicol Ann David, the names of the nation's top golfers remain largely unfamiliar to the public.

"For instance, Gavin Green, currently Malaysia’s best golfer, does not receive the recognition he deserves. Initiatives like social media coverage, TV updates and promotional campaigns spotlighting local and international players could create role models for Malaysians to admire.

"For golf to thrive, we need to make these players visible and relatable. Beyond media, funding and infrastructure remain pivotal. Thailand benefits from corporate backing, such as Singha, which has helped propel their golf scene.

"Similarly, Malaysia needs companies willing to invest in sponsorships, endorsements and grassroots programmes. Building a strong foundation will take time, but with strategic planning and commitment, foundations can be built and seeds can be planted," he said.

Danny shared that his goals for this year include winning at least one Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Tour event and securing his Tour card.

Looking ahead to the next two years, he plans to broaden his career by taking it overseas.

"My long-term aspirations include playing regularly on the European Tour, competing in the four majors and winning at least one of them.

"Representing Malaysia in the Olympics and the International team at the Presidents Cup is also a dream I cherish. Although these are lofty ambitions, I believe in dreaming big.

"Beyond my playing career, I aspire to become a golf coach, sharing my knowledge and experiences to nurture the next generation of Malaysian golfers," he said.

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