SINGAPORE: The Asian Tour added a new event to its schedule on Wednesday with the Handa Singapore Classic making its debut in September.

The tournament will offer 400,000 US dollars in prize money with the winner gaining a two-year exemption to the Asian Tour.

It is the first time the Asian Tour has co-sanctioned an event with the Singapore PGA.

"The Handa Singapore Classic is one of three new tournaments already on our calendar this year, with more to come," said the tour's executive chairman Kyi Hla Han.

"Our talented players are excited with this development which reinforces the strength and appeal of the Asian Tour."

The event, which will be played at the Orchid Country Club from September 9-12, is sponsored by Japanese philanthropist and businessman Haruhisa Handa.

The Asian Tour, which is battling the emergence of the rival OneAsia Tour, will host at least 26 touraments this year. OneAsia has 11 planned.