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Teeing Off Singapore’s Golf History
Sports
30 September 2025
Speech by Mr Baey Yam Keng, Minister of State, Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth & Ministry of Transport, at the World Amateur Team Championships, Espirito Santo Trophy Opening Ceremony on 30 September 2025
1. A very good evening to you all.
(a) A warm welcome to all our athletes, coaches, officials, sponsors and delegates – some of whom have travelled far to join us this evening.
(b) I hope all our international guests have had some time to settle down into our sunny island!
Singapore as a World-Class Sporting Destination
2. Today marks not only the start of the World Amateur Team Championships,
(a) But also, a historic moment in Singapore’s golfing journey,
(b) As this will be the very first time that Singapore is hosting the World Amateur Team Championships!
(c) And we could not be more thrilled to do this.
3. The Championships brings together the world’s best amateur golfers to compete in a format that demands focus, precision and teamwork.
(a) Over the next couple of days, we will witness the true unifying spirit of sports – whether it be celebrating remarkable breakthroughs alongside teammates and fellow competitors alike, or forging friendships that transcend borders.
(b) For our Team Singapore athletes, I know this will be quite a special milestone in your journey, as you will be able to compete with and learn from the best amateur talents in the world, right here on home turf.
4. Just like how the Championships will be a springboard for many of you to reach the highest levels in golf,
(a) I believe this event will also be Singapore’s springboard to hosting more top-tier sporting events,
(b) For our international golf community and beyond.
5. We are excited to host all of you here at the Tanah Merah Country Club over the next few days.
(a) I know that each and every one of you will bring your A-game to the Championships,
(b) And I assure you that we will match that same energy, dedication and commitment and bring our A-game in hosting all of you.
(c) So that everyone can experience the warmth, hospitality and professionalism that we are famous for.
Acknowledgement of Stakeholders
6. The Championships being held here in Singapore was not a coincidental occurrence.
(a) It was an intentional process, driven by effort, passion and sweat by many,
(b) And I would like to take a few moments to recognise them.
(c) Thanks to the team at the International Golf Federation, Singapore Golf Association, and the Tanah Merah Country Club for your unwavering dedication and tireless planning to make this Championship worthy of the world's best amateur talents.
(d) Thank you to our sponsors for believing in this event and for lending your support.
(e) And to all our athletes, both Team Singapore and those from abroad, I thank you in advance for playing with heart, competing with respect and honoring all the hard work that has brought you here to this moment.
Conclusion
7. I wish all of you a great week ahead in Singapore, both on and off the course,
(a) Whether you are driving towards your personal bests,
(b) Or witnessing some exceptional golfing moments,
(c) Or simply discovering what our sunny island has to offer and making memories with old and new friends.
8. Thank you very much and have a great evening.