This marked a major milestone for both the club and the country as it was the first time a Malaysian yacht club won the award since it was first held in 2005.

Among the 10 contenders were Dubai International Marine Club, Mina Seyahi (UAE), Gold Coast Yacht and Country Club, Hong Kong Marina, China's Suzhou Mercury Marina, Republic of Singapore Yacht Club and Thailand's Yacht Haven Marina.

Another Malaysian yacht club included in the list was Heritage Bay Club Marina, also in Langkawi.

Club commodore Tunku Datuk Ya'acob Tunku Tan Sri Abdullah was thrilled at the win.

"The hard work and dedication of the staff has made this possible," he said.

Its rear commodore Tunku Soraya Dakhlah Tunku Tan Sri Abdullah added: "It has always been the intention of RLYC to promote sailing throughout South East Asia and this award further cements Langkawi's reputation as the premier sailing destination in Asia."

The Christofle Asia Boating Awards is the region's premier event in recognising the efforts of boat builders, marinas, clubs and individuals in creating a diverse and exciting boating community.

The Royal Langkawi Yacht Club is five minutes' walk from the Jetty Point ferry terminal and 10 minutes by taxi from Kuah town. It has 200 world class berths and can accommodate mega yachts of up to 60m in length.