Golf has long been more than a sport—it serves as a quiet bridge between people, ideas, and nations. In an exclusive conversation with Golf & Beyond held in Dhaka on 7 April 2026, H.E. Mohd Shuhada Othman, High Commissioner of Malaysia to Bangladesh, shared how golf supports diplomacy, strengthens professional relationships, and opens avenues for Malaysia–Bangladesh collaboration.
Golf is often called a “silent diplomat’s game.” How has golf helped you build informal yet meaningful relationships with leaders, business communities, and fellow diplomats during your tenure?
Golf is often called a silent form of diplomacy because it creates space for trust. On the course, conversations are unforced and relationships develop naturally, and with a typical round lasting four to five hours, it would be a missed opportunity not to engage in meaningful dialogue. During my tenure, golf provided an informal setting to connect with leaders, business figures, and fellow diplomats in ways that formal meetings often cannot. What matters is the shared experience—walking the course together encourages patience, mutual respect, and openness. Many of these interactions later translated into smoother official engagements and stronger professional relationships. Golf does not replace diplomacy, but it quietly reinforces it.
Malaysia has produced world-class golf courses and international tournaments. What lessons from Malaysia’s golf ecosystem could be relevant for developing golf tourism and junior golf in countries like Bangladesh?
Malaysia’s golf success is built on accessibility and long-term planning. Junior development programmes, public courses, and private-sector involvement have helped create both talent and a strong golfing culture.
Malaysia is also home to numerous golf courses set against beautiful and diverse scenery—from coastal layouts to lush highlands—making the experience both sporting and scenic. Golf is closely linked with tourism, positioning courses as lifestyle and business destinations rather than standalone facilities, and with Malaysia just one flight away, it presents an accessible and attractive option for visitors from Bangladesh to come and play.
For countries like Bangladesh, the lesson is to focus on grassroots development, manageable infrastructure, and partnerships, with golf serving not only as a sport, but also as a platform for youth development, tourism growth, and international engagement.
As 2026 is Visit Malaysia Year, I would like to warmly invite Bangladeshis not only to enjoy golf, but also to experience Malaysia’s rich culture and renowned hospitality.
When and how did golf become part of your personal life? Is there a particular golf moment—on or off the course—that you feel reflects your philosophy as a diplomat: Sports as a Bridge Between Nations?
Golf became part of my life during my early diplomatic years, when I realized how effectively it helps clear the mind and build discipline. One memorable moment was playing a friendly round with diplomats from different countries—each of us from distinct cultures, yet united by the same respect for the game. That experience reflects my philosophy as a diplomat: differences can coexist harmoniously when there is mutual respect.
Beyond competition, golf creates lifelong friendships. Do you see scope for more Malaysia–Bangladesh collaboration through golf events, friendly tournaments, or youth exchanges?
Absolutely. Golf provides an excellent platform for strengthening Malaysia–Bangladesh relations at the people-to-people level. Friendly tournaments, junior golf exchanges, and joint golf tourism initiatives could deepen understanding and friendship between our nations. Such engagements create bonds that last well beyond official assignments.
Diplomacy is a demanding profession. How does golf help you maintain balance, clarity, and perspective in your professional and personal life?
Diplomacy demands constant attention, judgment, and balance. Golf offers me a space to reflect, recharge, and maintain perspective. Walking the course teaches patience, humility, and focus—qualities that are equally essential in diplomatic service. In many ways, golf keeps me grounded, both professionally and personally.
