The crown is an essential aspect of golf, a visual reference on the club to help align the clubface with its intended target – influencing its trajectory and destination. Since its inception, the crown of the Baiduri Masters has been charity.
Proceeds from the 25th edition of the tournament will go to charitable organisations which include Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training , Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei, Learning Ladders Society and Children’s Cancer Foundation (YASKA).
These organisations provide welfare support and raise awareness for people with different abilities and needs, relying on donations to cover operating expenses – such as rent and salaries – or the expansion of facilities so they can serve more students and patients.
“COVID-19 was particularly hard for organisations like SMARTER Brunei as we were not able to carry out our usual fundraising initiatives,” said SMARTER Brunei Chief Executive Officer Sharifah Adila Surya binti Malai Haji Abdullah.
“Fundraising is important for non-profits as it allows us to invest in our facilities and programmes – in more learning materials and therapists for our students.”
The sentiments were echoed by Learning Ladders Society President Dr Sharina binti Yunus.
“Our ABA programme focuses on helping children with autism and other related disorders, learn new skills, improve their relationships and their quality of life,” she said.
“These require a lot of resources, hence we are grateful for the support from the Baiduri Masters and other donations we receive as it allows us to continue the work we do for the community.”
YASKA Vice Chair Tsara’Nawwarah binti Abdullah Chen added, “The work we do at YASKA to help our children throughout their treatment is made possible by our wonderful volunteers and donations from initiatives such as the Baiduri Masters.”
The Baiduri Masters tees off today at Pantai Mentiri Golf Club, where it will be held over the next two weekends from July 28 to 30 and August 4 to 6.
Registration for the Baiduri Masters is still open. Interested players can confirm their participation in this year’s tournament by submitting forms and making payment in full at the registration counter of the Pantai Mentiri Golf Club.
Participants are vying for the new Challenge Trophy, introduced to celebrate the silver jubilee of the Baiduri Masters, and the coveted Green Jacket. The hole-in-one prizes include a BMW iX3, Mini Cooper 3 Door Brick Lane Edition or BND20,000.