In a groundbreaking achievement for private golf in Bangladesh, Arunima Resort Golf Club has officially secured affiliation with the Bangladesh Golf Federation—marking a historic first in the country’s golfing landscape. At the helm of this transformative milestone is Mr. Khabir Uddin Ahmed, Chairman of the Arunima Golf Club Committee, whose visionary leadership and unwavering passion for the sport continue to inspire a new generation of golfers. In this exclusive interview, Mr. Ahmed reflects on his journey, the club’s evolution, and his enduring commitment to making golf more inclusive and accessible across the nation.
Arunima Resort Golf Club has become a unique name in Bangladesh’s golfing landscape. What inspired you to establish this golf course?
After inheriting a piece of land from my paternal property, I felt it could be transformed into something meaningful for the community. My exposure to golf began years ago during my involvement with youth leadership programs, both nationally and globally. At that time, I served as the Vice President of Junior Chamber International and had the opportunity to travel to several countries. That is when I discovered golf and I was instantly captivated by the beauty and tranquility of golf courses.
Golf fascinated me because it is a game where you don’t necessarily need a team; you compete with yourself, constantly challenging your own abilities. I noticed that most golf clubs in Bangladesh were run by the military, and I believed that civilians, too, could successfully operate such facilities. This belief led to the creation of Arunima Resort Golf Club, which today proudly stands as the country’s only private golf club affiliated with the Bangladesh Golf Federation.
Arunima Resort Golf Club is known for its free golf training initiatives. Could you tell us more about this?
From the very beginning, I have dedicated myself to teaching golf to local boys, girls, and children completely free of cost. I am proud to announce that Arunima Resort Golf Club will provide free golf training to students and underprivileged people across Bangladesh.
Throughout my life, I have engaged in various social activities, and this initiative is a continuation of that commitment. I strongly believe golf can be a powerful tool to engage youth in positive activities, steering them away from drugs and other harmful influences.
You mentioned your background in youth leadership. How has that shaped your vision for golf?
My journey in youth leadership has been instrumental in shaping my philosophy. Leading national and international youth programs taught me the importance of mentorship and creating opportunities for the next generation. Golf, to me, is not just a sport but a platform for personal growth, discipline, and excellence.
I had the privilege of attending an executive committee meeting with our Honorable Army Chief, General Wakar-Uz-Zaman, where he emphasized the need to engage youth in constructive activities. Inspired by this vision, I have been using golf as a medium to positively transform the lives of young people in Khulna and Narail.
Arunima Resort Golf Club is already recognized by the Bangladesh Golf Federation. What are your future plans for the club?
My dream is to promote Arunima Resort Golf Club on a larger scale through seminars, well-branded tournaments, and community-driven activities. If necessary, I am more than willing to seek guidance from the Bangladesh Golf Federation to further elevate the club.
Recently, the Federation asked me to recommend four players from our club for advanced training. If they pass the selection process, the Federation will bear all their training expenses. This is a positive sign that the future of Bangladeshi golf is already taking shape.
How has your family contributed to this golfing journey?
Golf has become a family affair for us. My son, who is also the CEO of Arunima Resort Golf Club, is an active golfer. My son-in-law, Marshwal, also plays golf regularly. Beyond family, many of my friends and acquaintances are closely involved in golf, which has strengthened our collective commitment to the sport.
You also speak passionately about green tourism. How does golf tie into that vision?
Globally, green tourism is becoming increasingly important. Golf courses, when developed sustainably, can serve as major attractions for both local and international tourists. If Bangladesh can expand and promote golf effectively, we can attract tourist golfers, thereby boosting both tourism and the sport itself.
What message do you want to share with senior golfers and the golfing community at large?
Senior golfers play a vital role in shaping the future of golf. By guiding and mentoring juniors with affection and patience, they can pass down not just techniques, but also the values of the game. At Arunima Resort Golf Club, I make it a point to personally mentor young golfers.
My hope is that this culture of guidance and mentorship continues, enabling more Bangladeshi golfers to flourish and make the country proud on the global stage.
What is your ultimate dream for Arunima Resort Golf Club?
I want Arunima Resort Golf Club to become a model for civilian-led golf initiatives in Bangladesh. My vision is to see golf become more accessible, inclusive, and widely appreciated not just as a sport, but as a catalyst for youth development, tourism, and national pride.
