A Seamless Yacht Journey, Championship Golf, and Luxury Resorts
4–5 January 2026 marked more than just the first weekend of the year. It was a landmark trial voyage that may shape a new chapter in Malaysia–Bintan tourism.
This special journey brought together 26 participants across two groups:
- 15 associates from the FOCUS Adventure Group ecosystem, including CAMP CHALLENGE, Outdoor Adventures, and FOCUS Adventure Malaysia
- 11 Malaysian golfers eager to experience Bintan’s championship golf courses
The objectives were clear:
- Trial the Pengelih CIQP sea route from Johor to Bintan and back
- Evaluate Bintan as a “Stay & Play” golf destination for Malaysian travellers
- Experience the hospitality of Mövenpick Resort & Spa Bintan Lagoon during its soft-launch phase
- Conduct a FOCUS Adventure Group retreat
Within hours of leaving the marina, participants were watching the sunrise over open waters, checking into a beachfront resort, and teeing off on a championship golf course designed by one of the world’s most respected names.
A Private Sea Journey That Sets the Tone
The journey began early morning at the Johor Yacht & Recreation Club (JYRC), departing aboard President R&F.
Within two hours, the yacht arrived at Tanjung Pengelih for CIQP clearance before sailing onward to Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) in Bintan.
By sunrise, the yacht was already gliding across calm waters toward the island.
For many participants, it was their first yacht experience. What stood out was not just the comfort, but the sense of exclusivity. The sea breeze, uninterrupted horizon, and golden sunrise created a natural transition — from routine to retreat.
By late morning, the group arrived at Bandar Bentan Telani and proceeded to the island’s premier resorts.
Luxury Stay: Mövenpick and Club Med
The first highlight was a site visit and hosted lunch at Mövenpick Resort & Spa Bintan Lagoon.
Guests were impressed by the resort’s scale, elegant design and sweeping sea views. The quality of the rooms and the breakfast offering were particularly well received, positioning the property as a strong option for corporate retreats, executive groups and golf travellers.
The group later checked into Club Med Bintan, where the atmosphere shifted to vibrant leisure and activity.
Participants enjoyed a wide range of experiences including
- Flying Trapeze
- Archery
- Racquet sports
- Beginner golf sessions
Club Med’s all-inclusive concept—featuring gourmet dining, free-flow beverages, diverse activities and theatre performances—created an environment that encouraged both relaxation and social connection.
The resort’s GO (Gentle Organizers) team also hosted an Indonesian cultural night, featuring bamboo dance, henna painting, shoulder massages and local snacks.
Championship Golf: The Centrepiece of the Experience
Golf was a defining highlight of the trip.
Players teed off at:
- Ria Bintan Golf Club
- Bintan’s Jack Nicklaus Signature Course
The Jack Nicklaus course stood out for its immaculate maintenance and strategic layout. From tee box to green, playing conditions met the expectations of serious Malaysian golfers.
For golf enthusiasts, Bintan offers a compelling “Stay & Play” proposition:
- World-class golf courses
- Minimal travel time from Malaysia
- Luxury resorts located nearby
- An island setting that enhances the overall experience
It is golf — elevated.
A Strategic Tourism Opportunity
As Colonel Jamal aptly observed, Bintan should become “the destination not to miss” in upcoming travel packages combining stay, play, and vacation experiences.
This trip did more than test a route.
It tested belief.
And belief, when supported by systems, collaboration, and refinement, becomes opportunity.
Bintan is no longer just an island getaway.
It offers a rare combination of adventure, luxury, championship golf and meaningful connection—all within easy reach.
Bintan is a strategic tourism play — ready to scale.
