The Malaysia International Junior Open (MIJO) 2024 concluded with electrifying performances by young talents from across the globe. Held over three days from 22nd – 24th November 2024 at the Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort, the tournament witnessed an impressive showcase of skill, determination, and sportsmanship.
MIJO 2024 brought together junior golfers from 15 countries, including South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Japan, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, India, Chinese Taipei, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. This diverse participation underscores the tournament’s global appeal and its reputation as a premier event for junior golf.
In the Boy’s Overall category, South Korea’s Seunggu Kang emerged victorious with a stellar performance, carding scores of 69, 69, and 72 to finish at 210 (-6). Runner-up Teuku Husein M. Danindra from Indonesia and Malaysia’s Muhammad Afham Othman tied at 214 (-2), with Afham earning third place on countback.
In the Girl’s Overall category, South Korea’s Sieun Lee dominated the field with scores of 69, 67, and 68 for an outstanding total of 204 (-12). Malaysia’s Wang Xin Yao secured the runner-up position with 211 (-5), followed by Korea’s Bae Eunkyung in third with 212 (-4).
Malaysia’s young prodigy, Muhammad Afham Othman, stood out not only as the best local player in the Boy’s category but also as the winner in the Boy’s Group B category with a total of 214 (-2). Reflecting on his achievement, Afham said, “It’s a great honour to compete with such talented players and bring pride to Malaysia. This win motivates me to work even harder.”
In the Girl’s category, Wang Xin Yao impressed as Malaysia’s top contender, finishing second overall. Speaking after her exceptional performance, Wang remarked, “Playing in front of my home crowd was truly inspiring. This tournament has been an incredible learning experience.”
Mohd Fauzi Mesran, Chairman of the National Junior Development Programme (NJDP), expressed his pride in the Malaysian players, saying, “Our juniors have shown that they can compete with the best. This is a proud moment for Malaysian golf and a step forward in our journey to develop world-class players.
Tournament Director Bambang Sumanteri Osman lauded the participants, stating, “The MIJO 2024 was a testament to the incredible potential of junior golfers. We are thrilled to see such remarkable talent and are committed to nurturing future stars of the sport.”
The MIJO 2024 was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors, including Tourism Malaysia, Tourism Johor, QUL Holdings, F&N, Crestlink, Dama- Dingjiyanwo Sdn Bhd, Bidari Kekal Sdn Bhd, Kargoya Sdn Bhd, NFauzi Services Sdn Bhd, O Golf Academy, TPGR Sdn Bhd, J&C Travel Agencies, Aiman Adli Sdn Bhd, Colla Group, and Pescada Sdn Bhd played a significant role in ensuring the event’s success. Their contributions are vital in fostering junior golf development and showcasing Malaysia as a premier golfing destination.
With participants from across the globe, MIJO 2024 has solidified its reputation as a premier event for junior golfers. The success of this tournament highlights the global appeal of junior golf and the bright future of the sport.
