A golf superapp raised USD $2M — but is the problem really big enough to justify that kind of funding? In this episode of Open For Business, we speak with David Wong, Founder and CEO of Deemples, a Malaysian-born golf-tech startup that began as a simple way to find golf buddies and has evolved into a full-fledged super app for golfers.

From tee-time bookings and group game matchmaking to bundled golf trips and community events, Deemples is building a regional golf ecosystem. David shares how the company tripled its GMV since 2023, closed a USD $2 million round in 2024, and launched in Thailand, Southeast Asia’s largest golf market.

We unpack how Deemples is driving stickiness through social features, cashback incentives, and brand engagement, and how it’s earned partnerships with 80% of Malaysia’s golf courses. David also reveals why larger platforms haven’t cracked this vertical, how offline activations are fueling growth, and why Deemples could be on track for a global acquisition.

If you’re into vertical marketplaces, super apps, or niche community platforms — this one’s for you.

Produced by: Roshan Kanesan, Kishan Sivaswamy

Presented by: Roshan Kanesan

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Categories:  markets,  sports,  entrepreneurs

Tags:  golf,  super app,  southeast asia,  startup,  fundraising,