Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: Deborah Wong will mark a new milestone for Southeast Asian golf at The 153rd Open Championship in Northern Ireland, as the first female referee from the region to officiate at the world’s oldest Major.
The Malaysian will be part of a 50-strong rules committee at Royal Portrush Golf Club from July 17-20, when the world’s leading male golfers will compete for the coveted Claret Jug in the fourth and final Major of the year.
“I was thrilled, honoured and absolutely delighted when I receive the invitation from The R&A,” said Wong. “It took me a moment to process the wonderful news before I could even share it with my husband!
“I’ll be celebrating my birthday in Belfast during Open week – a truly unforgettable way to mark the occasion and the best birthday gift ever!”
Since her rules journey began in 2005 when she passed The R&A rules exam in Singapore, Wong has amassed an impressive portfolio in golf rules education and event officiating. Her commitment and efforts were recognised in 2023 when she became the first woman to be appointed as the Rules & Amateur Status Sub-Committee Chairman of the Malaysian Golf Association (MGA).
“From officiating to teaching the Rules and becoming the Rules Chairman, I’ve been honoured to grow alongside the MGA while contributing to the sport I love,” said Wong, who has been Lady Captain at Kota Permai Golf & Country Club for the past 25 years.
Her selection to The Open rules team, Wong stressed, is not just a personal milestone.
“This honour is not just a personal triumph but a celebration of Malaysian golf and the progress of women in sports officiating. I hope my journey inspires the next generation of referees, proving that passion, perseverance, and hard work can open doors to the world’s greatest stages,” she noted.
For Wong, refereeing is something she enjoys as it requires a 'unique blend of precision and camaraderie'.
“Every decision requires a deep understanding of the Rules, but it’s also about fairness, problem-solving, and ensuring the spirit of the game shines through. Whether it’s helping players navigate complex situations or witnessing their respect for the Rules grow, there’s immense satisfaction in contributing to the integrity of golf,” she elaborated.
“And after 20 years, I still love that moment when a ruling sparks clarity – not frustration – because it reminds me how the Rules unite us all in fairness.”
Wong’s selection also aligns with The R&A’s Women in Golf Charter, which aims to increase the number of women playing golf and working in the golf industry. The MGA is one of more than 1,300 signatories to the charter.
MGA President Tan Sri Mohd Anwar Mohd Nor lauded Wong’s achievement. He said: “Deborah’s journey is a story of personal growth, vision, and leadership. She has not only broken barriers in her own career but has also lifted others along the way. Her appointment to The Open is a proud moment for Malaysia, and a beacon of inspiration for women across the region who aspire to lead in sports governance.”
