The Economic and Strategic Value of Golf Mega-Events as Catalysts for Tourism and Local Business Growth

Golf mega-events have emerged as powerful engines for regional economic transformation, particularly in destinations like Hainan, Thailand, and Malaysia. By attracting high-net-worth tourists, fostering infrastructure development, and creating strategic partnerships between governments and private stakeholders, these events catalyze tourism-linked investments that extend far beyond the greens. This analysis explores how golf tourism, when strategically leveraged, can drive sustainable growth and position regions as global leisure hubs.

Economic Impact: From Tourism to Long-Term Development

Golf mega-events generate direct and indirect economic benefits by boosting tourism revenue, creating jobs, and stimulating infrastructure investments. In Hainan, China, the island’s branding as the “Hawaii of Asia” has been instrumental in attracting international golfers, particularly from Australia, South Korea, and Japan. A 2021 study of 519 golf tourists in Hainan revealed that destination personality (DP) significantly enhances destination image (DI) and behavioral intention (BI), which are critical for sustaining tourism growth [1]. This psychological and experiential impact translates into repeat visits and long-term loyalty, driving consistent revenue for local businesses.

Similarly, in Thailand and Malaysia, golf tourism has been strategically integrated with luxury hospitality and experiential travel. Research highlights that high-quality courses, world-class facilities, and exceptional service quality are key differentiators that attract high-value tourists [2]. For instance, Malaysia’s focus on golf tourism has positioned destinations like Penang and Terengganu as premier leisure spots, with studies showing that Malaysian golfers perceive Thailand and Indonesia as competitive alternatives due to their superior course offerings [3]. While specific revenue figures for recent golf events remain elusive, the broader golf tourism market is projected to grow substantially, driven by demand for premium hospitality services and international tournaments [4].

Infrastructure development is another critical area of economic impact. Hainan’s government has invested heavily in expanding airports, railways, and high-end resorts to accommodate the influx of tourists. These projects not only support immediate event needs but also lay the groundwork for long-term tourism resilience. In Thailand, similar investments in transportation and resort infrastructure have been tied to the success of golf mega-events, which act as magnets for both leisure and business travelers [5].

Strategic Partnerships: Government and Business Synergy

The success of golf mega-events hinges on robust government-business partnerships. In Malaysia, Bernama (the national news agency) has collaborated with Hainan’s International Media Center (HIMC) to promote tourism and highlight key destinations like Penang and Terengganu [6]. This partnership underscores the importance of media cooperation in shaping destination branding and attracting international visitors, particularly from China.

Hainan’s government has also adopted a proactive approach by integrating golf tourism with broader sport tourism initiatives. Cities like Sanya and Wanning are being positioned as global sport tourism hubs through investments in infrastructure and event hosting capabilities [7]. Industrialists emphasize that such efforts require coordinated strategies, including improved transportation, specialized management, and sustainable development practices [8].

In Thailand, the alignment of golf tourism with medical tourism has further diversified revenue streams. While medical tourism has traditionally driven infrastructure and job creation, the integration of golf events adds a layer of leisure value, enhancing the overall appeal of the destination [9].

Sustainability and Inclusive Growth

While the economic benefits of golf mega-events are substantial, challenges such as environmental degradation and community displacement necessitate a balanced approach. In Hainan, studies have highlighted the need for inclusive tourism strategies that involve local communities in planning and decision-making [10]. Sustainable practices—such as energy-efficient resorts, waste reduction programs, and community engagement initiatives—are increasingly seen as essential for long-term economic resilience [11].

The pandemic has further underscored the importance of adaptability. Research on Hainan’s golf tourism during the crisis revealed that destination image and self-congruity (the alignment between a tourist’s self-identity and the destination) were critical in maintaining visitor loyalty [12]. This insight suggests that sustainability and experiential quality must remain central to post-pandemic recovery strategies.

Conclusion: A Strategic Investment in the Future

Golf mega-events are more than sporting spectacles—they are strategic investments in regional development. By attracting high-value tourists, fostering infrastructure growth, and creating public-private partnerships, these events position destinations like Hainan, Thailand, and Malaysia as global tourism powerhouses. However, their long-term success depends on balancing economic gains with sustainability and inclusivity. For investors, the key lies in aligning with regions that prioritize both growth and responsible development, ensuring that the legacy of these events extends far beyond the final scorecard.

Source:
[1] Mediating Role of Destination Image and Self-Congruity [https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/14/11/6528]
[2] A cross-country comparison of Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia golf tourism experience [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/375889278_A_cross-country_comparison_of_Malaysia_Thailand_and_Indonesia_golf_tourism_experience_a_perceptual_experience_of_Malaysian_golfers]
[3] Golf Tourism Market Size, Growth, Share and Forecast 2032 [https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/golf-tourism-market]
[4] An analysis of golf tourism in Thailand [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/387523947_An_analysis_of_golf_tourism_in_Thailand]
[5] Hainan: the Hawai'i of the East [https://dean-and-associates.com/blog/hainan-the-hawaii-of-the-east]
[6] Bernama inks collaboration with HIMC to promote tourism [https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/08/01/bernama-inks-collaboration-with-himc-to-promote-tourism-drive-economic-growth]
[7] A Perspective from Industrialists [https://bioone.org/journalArticle/Download?urlid=10.5814%2Fj.issn.1674-764x.2025.04.017]
[8] Sharing the Benefits of Tourism: A Case Study in Hainan China [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/265483919_Sharing_the_Benefits_of_Tourism_A_Case_Study_in_Hainan_China]
[9] Global Medical Tourism - Dubai, Hainan, Iran, Malaysia and ... [https://finance.yahoo.com/news/global-medical-tourism-dubai-hainan-090900080.html]
[10] Mediating and moderating effects in golf tourism [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1354816620902331]
[11] Emerging Sustainability Trends in Tourist Facilities [https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/16/9/3536]
[12] Destination Personality and Behavioral Intention in Hainan's Golf Tourism during COVID-19 Pandemic [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/360968785_Destination_Personality_and_Behavioral_Intention_in_Hainan's_Golf_Tourism_during_COVID-19_Pandemic_Mediating_Role_of_Destination_Image_and_Self-Congruity]