Polo in South East Asia

Southeast Asia has become increasingly popular among polo enthusiasts, offering diverse clubs and facilities suitable for both experienced players and newcomers. From Malaysia and the Philippines to Indonesia, the region has built welcoming and dedicated communities around the sport.

Polo Clubs & Polo Schools in Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur Polo Club (Malaysia)

Polo Clubs & Polo Schools in the Philippines 

Manila Polo Club (Philippines)

North Polo Club (Philippines)

Polo Clubs & Polo Schools in the Indonesia 

Nusantara Polo Club (Jakarta)

Editor's Note:
Due to the numerous facilities available in Singapore and Thailand, we have dedicated articles focusing on polo in those locations. Please click on the respective links to access those articles.

Polo Clubs in Thailand | Polo Clubs & Schools in Singapore

Kuala Lumpur Polo Club (Malaysia)

Founded in 1902, the Kuala Lumpur Polo Club (KLPC) is renowned as one of Malaysia's oldest and most prestigious clubs. Uniquely, it is the only member's polo club globally situated in a major metropolitan downtown area. 

The club features a regulation-sized polo field, an indoor arena, two outdoor arenas, and a clubhouse with their well-loved restaurant, "stick and bar," overlooking the field. The Polo Club also hosts a school dedicated to developing polo players (KL Academy of Polo, KLAP) and an equestrian school, with stabling for over 320 horses.

The playing season typically runs from February to November, featuring both local low-goal tournaments and international high-goal competitions. The riding school offers instruction in jumping and dressage, hosting numerous international Showjumping, Dressage, and Tent-Pegging events, bringing top-tier equestrian competition to Malaysia.

To access the club's livery services, membership is required, but non-members can still participate in polo lessons and activities at KLAP.

Manila Polo Club (Philippines)

Established in 1909, the Manila Polo Club (MPC) stands as one of the Philippines' most historic and esteemed polo institutions. It houses a six-hectare polo field for major events and a smaller practice field for stick and ball activities. The club also includes an equestrian academy offering training in disciplines like dressage and jumping, with a large covered riding arena and an additional outdoor arena. Stabling facilities are available for members.

The club provides an extensive range of sports and fitness facilities, such as a gym, swimming pools, tennis and badminton courts, squash courts, a softball field, and a golf driving range. With more than eight dining venues, the club offers a diverse selection of cuisines, from Italian to Japanese. The club also boasts several function rooms, ideal for hosting events from small private dinners to large wedding celebrations.

Membership is exclusive, requiring sponsorship from existing members, and non-members can only use the facilities if sponsored.

Manila Polo Club, 35 McKinley Rd, Makati, 1220 Metro Manila, Philippines

Nusantara Polo Club (Indonesia)

Located just 45 minutes from Jakarta’s Central Business District, the club has recently transitioned from being semi-private to open to the public. It now boasts over 30 members, a national team, and around 80 horses. The clubhouse offers members and guests picturesque views of the field. The club is family-friendly and welcomes both beginners and advanced players. It features a polo field, training arena, and stables.

Nusantara Polo Club, No, Jl. Kp. Kranji No.44, Ciriung, Kec. Cibinong, Kabupaten Bogor, Jawa Barat 16918, Indonesia

North Polo Club (Philippines)

North Polo Club is a privately owned estate with polo facilities situated in Pulilan, just an hour's drive from Metro Manila. It describes itself not as a membership club, but as a friendship club. There are no monthly membership fees; players bring their own horses and play at no cost. Regular players who stable their horses at NPC pay a reasonable fee, and expatriates have the option to lease horses.

North Polo Club, Big Ben Farm, Tabon, Pulilan, Philippines

What to Know

• As with any polo club or school, it is advisable to contact them in advance if you intend to visit or utilise their facilities.

Conclusion

Southeast Asia has a vibrant polo scene with clubs for both experienced players and beginners. From the Kuala Lumpur Polo Club in Malaysia to the North Polo Club in the Philippines, each venue offers unique facilities. Whether you're interested in competitive play or the sport's social aspects, these clubs provide many opportunities to immerse yourself in one of the most breathtaking and prestigious sports.