Defending champion Anthony Kang of the United States is ready to face the challenges of a strong international field at the 49th edition of the Maybank Malaysian Open, with K.J. Choi, Daniel Chopra, Darren Clarke, Thongchai Jaidee and Shingo Katayama among the headline names in Kuala Lumpur.

Kang’s win last season earned him full playing rights on The European Tour and he believes  his experiences of The Race to Dubai have made him a better player ahead of his title defence at the refurbished Kula Lumpur Golf and Country Club (KLGCC).

“I’ve learnt a lot from playing in Europe and I’m beginning to see the positive signs,” said Kang. “My game is better than last year so I’m really excited.