With every drive, putt and quiet moment on the green, the Baiduri Masters has evolved into more than just a golf tournament. It has become a reflection of what’s possible when sports and purpose unite. As this year’s edition draws near, Baiduri Bank Group invites golfers of all levels to take part in an event that celebrates not just competition, but meaningful contribution.

The 2025 Baiduri Masters will take place over two weekends — from 1 to 3 August and 8 to 10 August — at Pantai Mentiri Golf Club. In what has become a much-anticipated highlight on Brunei’s golfing calendar, players will once again compete for the coveted Green Jacket and Challenge Trophy while raising funds for causes that impact lives across the country.

For Irwan Hamid, last year’s champion, the memory of his win still feels like a dream. “I didn’t expect to win. It still feels a bit surreal. But I’m incredibly grateful,” he shared. “I’ve put in a lot of work, and to see it pay off like this is just amazing.”

Irwan’s journey in golf began in childhood, and over the years, through steady progress and competition, including multiple appearances at the Baiduri Masters, he’s learned how to stay grounded. A crowd cheered him on as he approached the final hole last year. That moment, he said, “gave me a boost of confidence and reminded me of how much support I have.”

Almas Syadwanie Kamis, the 2024 Ladies’ Champion, has a similar appreciation for what the tournament represents. She first picked up a golf club at the age of eight, guided by her older siblings. It was during her student days at the Sports School that she began entering the Baiduri Masters under the junior category.

“I feel happy and grateful for the victory I achieved last year,” she said. “Alhamdulillah, luck was on my side.” Her routine, a mix of practice at the range and running to build focus and fitness, reflects the same quiet discipline that defines many of the tournament’s regulars.

But for both Irwan and Almas, the heart of the Baiduri Masters lies not just in the game, but in the good it does.

“I was especially touched by the causes supporting children with developmental needs,” said Irwan. “It’s inspiring to see how even small contributions can help make a meaningful difference.” Almas echoes this sentiment. “It’s not just about winning,” she added. “It’s about taking part in something that helps others, and that makes the experience more meaningful.”

All proceeds from this year’s tournament registration will go towards five local organisations: the Child Development Centre (CDC), SMARTER Brunei, the Brunei Darussalam National Association of the Blind (BDNAB), La Vida, and the Learning Ladders Society. Their work spans therapy, education and inclusive development, and the Baiduri Masters proudly continues to be one of their key fundraising avenues.

Players can now register online at www.maribali.com.bn/baiduri-bank, where digital registration also comes with a $5 discount, part of the tournament’s ongoing push toward sustainability and reducing paper use. For those unable to register online, in-person registration is available at Pantai Mentiri Golf Club, though slots are only confirmed upon full payment. Forms can also be downloaded from www.baiduri.com.bn/baiduri-masters.

As with every year, players will compete not just for the top honours, but also for a series of exceptional hole-in-one prizes, including a BMW iX, Porsche Macan EV, MINI Aceman, and a BND20,000 cash prize. A special appreciation dinner at the end of the tournament will also be held to celebrate the winners and present novelty and lucky draw prizes.

Asked whether they’ll be defending their titles, both champions gave the same response: a resounding yes. “Oh definitely,” Irwan said. “Can’t let them have the trophy without a fight.” Almas, too, plans to return: “Insya’Allah, I will do my best.”

Their message to new players is simple: enjoy it. “Don’t overthink it,” Irwan said. “Golf’s all about enjoying the ride.” Almas added, “Let your game be more than just a game. Let it bring hope to others.”

The Baiduri Masters 2025 is now open for registration. Whether you’re aiming for the leaderboard or playing your first round, every swing contributes to something greater. As both champions showed last year, the scorecard matters, but the impact goes far beyond the course.