KUALA LUMPUR – Although Malaysian golfing great M. Ramayah represented the country at 13 World Cups, many are unaware of the role the late golfer had in sports’ development in Malaysia.
Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) general manager Nik Mustapha Nik Mohamad told The Vibes this is due to Ramayah’s humble nature, even though the golfer has brushed shoulders with the likes of Tiger Woods and Vijay Singh.
“It is in his nature to not brag or talk about his accomplishments. He was soft-spoken, never loud on the course.
“But one thing he did do was make his point on the golf course,” Nik Mustapha said.
Ramayah was a PGM board member and was a founding director of PGM after being selected by its then chairman, the late Tun Ahmad Sarji Abdul Hamid to represent the players on the board.
“Ramayah was on the board from the beginning. He helps other members plan the tour and has contributed so much to the tour’s development.
“Not many people know this, but he worked with the chairman to help design the Kota Seriemas Golf and Country Club in Nilai.
“Ramayah worked closely to design and plan the layout for the course, so in his own quiet way, he helped to develop the new golf course,” he said.
Running the PGM Tour, Nik said he often visits Ramayah for guidance, as the 1981 Marcos International winner had the experience playing all over the world.
“Now and then I used to touch base with him to get his advice. He has always been helpful and positive to talk to.
“Very humble person, there is no boastfulness about him,” he said.
Nik added that Ramayah’s disciplined mentality led him to become Malaysia’s top golfer from 1976 to 1997.
“That is why he became our top player back in the day. He really is an icon for golf in our country.
“It is a sad day for us…he was such a friendly guy. I am really going to miss him,” he added.
Meanwhile, Professional Golfers Association of Malaysia president Chong Chee Ming said Ramayah’s passing has dampened the moods of golfers all around.
Chong said he will always remember Ramayah as a soft-spoken gentleman.
“After working with him closely the last few years, he always came across as a caring person who was always willing to share.
“He never hesitated to share his experiences in the game and would often speak of betterment for the game and for the pros in the country, referring to them as ‘the boys’ in his veteran tone.
“Ramayah will be missed as a great player, a coach, and a fine gentleman. May his soul rest in peace,” he said.
PGM, together with the National Athletes’ Welfare Foundation (Yakeb) and Malaysian Golf Association (MGA), had announced a charity golf event for Ramayah later this month, but the donations will instead be given to underprivileged children who dream of playing golf, as Ramayah desired.
MGA honorary secretary Datuk Zulkifli Ismail said given Ramayah’s passing, the charity event would be cancelled.
“We mourn the loss of a true golfing icon, but we also celebrate the many wonderful memories and achievements that Ramayah brought to the Malaysian golf scene.
“MGA together with PGM Tour, The Mines Resort and Yakeb planned for a charity game on March 18, but after Ramayah’s passing, we felt it was prudent to cancel the event.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to Ramayah’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of golfers for years to come,” he told The Vibes.
Ramayah passed away at Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz UKM, Cheras yesterday morning after being diagnosed with stage four spinal cancer last month. – The Vibes, March 7, 2023
