Dear Members, As part of our efforts to enhance facilities for golfers at the Club, we will soon be introducing two indoor golf simulators. These will be located in one of the existing air-conditioned squash courts, close to the bag storage and trolley area. The project has been evaluated by the Greens Subcommittee, with input from members who are familiar with simulator technology.
Our objectives are twofold. First, the simulators will serve as training and learning tools, giving members access to detailed swing and ball data that can support game improvement. Second, they will provide entertainment by allowing members to play virtual versions of well-known courses indoors. This reflects RSGC’s role as a golf club where many Members seek accurate feedback on their game while also enjoying alternative ways to play.
Three leading systems were considered: Trackman iO from Denmark, Uneekor XR from Korea, and Foresight GC Quad from the United States. GC Quad requires multiple stickers to be put on the clubhead for data to be captured, which is inconvenient. Thus, GC Quad was not subsequently considered.
The evaluation of the remaining two systems included site visits to commercial venues in Kuala Lumpur where these products are installed, discussions with professional golfers who have used them, and an assessment of support and service arrangements available in Malaysia. Based on this evaluation, Trackman iO was found to be the best fit for RSGC in terms of data reliability, ease of use, after-sales support provided directly by its Malaysian team, and strong brand recognition.
The facility will consist of two simulator bays within a padded structure. Each bay will feature an impact screen, high-quality hitting mats to reduce injury risk, HD projectors, TV displays, and a high-performance desktop computer. The system will capture a wide range of data, including clubhead speed, ball speed, spin rates, launch angles, club path, and angle of attack. Virtual course play will also be available for those who wish to use it.
Operational details are being finalised and are subject to change. For now, access will be unmanned, controlled by QR code entry, with bookings managed at the front desk. Bookings may also be done online at some stage. Security cameras will be installed to protect Members and equipment. Seating will be kept to a minimum to allow sufficient swing room, and at the outset, F&B support will likely be limited to vending machines, though the Club is exploring how more options could be added in the future.
Procurement will take place in two parts. The Trackman launch monitors will be supplied directly from Trackman, while the construction and fit-out— including the steel frame, padding, lighting, wiring, projectors, mats, and IT equipment—will follow RSGC’s purchasing procedures. Responsibility for execution has now been handed to the Projects Convenor and Facilities team, who are working with the supplier to finalise specifications.
If the simulators are well received, the Club may also look into converting two bays at the driving range into hitting bays with similar equipment. Whilst this will never replace playing on our courses, some Members may welcome the comfort of an enclosed setting with air-conditioning, particularly in the heat and humidity, during the wet season, or when lightning sirens make outdoor play impossible. This will simply give Members more choice in how they enjoy the game we all love at RSGC.
Best regards,
David Mah
Greens Convenor and Vice Captain
