Malaysian developer Destination Resorts and Hotels has unveiled the plans for two new golf resorts it is building along with South African golfing legend Ernie Els.

DRH, which is the leisure development arm of the Malaysian government's sovereign wealth fund, is working with Els's firm to create the two resorts, which will be billed at Asia's first Els Clubs, at Teluk Datai on the island of Langkawi and at Desaru Coast, on the South China Sea in south eastern Johor.

The eighteen hole Teluk Detai project is set for an official opening in October 2013, with the 27-hole Desaru resort following the year after. Both golf courses have been created by Ernie Els Design, the firm's first projects in the region.

The properties will be managed by Troon Golf. The Troon team will be led by Ken Kosak, who recently relocated following a nine year stint in the Middle East, overseeing Abu Dhabi Golf Club and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club.

DRH managing director Nadziruddin Basri said: “A project as high profile as this requires expertise of the highest order. We have undertaken much due diligence in identifying our partners. Ernie and his design team share our vision in creating one of the world's most distinct golf experiences. Troon will bring their industry leading services and expertise to ensure the product and experience fall in line with our vision.”

Kosak added: “This is one of the most exciting golf projects in the world. We have an owner with great ambition and vision and a course design team that has proven to be one of the finest in the world of golf.”