Britain's Simon Dyson always feels confident in Asian tournaments and this week will be no exception when he defends his Indonesian Open title.

After gaining his tour card in January 2000, Dyson won three times in the region to finish the season top of their order of merit.

"Because of the year I had in Asia I feel like I am the one to beat whenever I come back," the 29-year-old Englishman told the European Tour's official Web site (www.europeantour.com).

"The confidence is up and even when I am not playing great I go there and get results." 

Dyson warmed up in style for his title defence in Jakarta by finishing joint third at the Malaysian Open on Sunday.

"I remember the emotions I felt in Indonesia last year when I won my first European Tour title, it felt so good," he said.

"A couple of years ago I thought it might never happen. I'm happy with my game at the moment and can't wait to begin."

A closing five-under-par 67 helped Dyson beat Australian Andrew Buckle at the Emeralda Golf and Country Club last March.

The Englishman also went on to win the Dutch Open in August, defeating Australian Richard Green in a playoff.

The third edition of the Indonesian Open switches to the Damai Indah Golf and Country Club.

Situated near the coast at Pantai Indah Kapuk, the course escaped the floods that have hit parts of the city recently and is ready to welcome a mix of European and Asian tour talent.

Thaworn Wiratchant won at Cengkareng Golf Club in 2005 and will lead the Asian lineup alongside fellow Thai and double European Tour winner Thongchai Jaidee.

American Notah Begay III, a close friend of world No 1 Tiger Woods and a four-time winner on the PGA Tour, also takes part in the $1.05 million tournament which starts tomorrow.

(China Daily via Agencies February 14, 2007)