McIlroy recorded a hole-in-one on the way to a nine-under 63 at Kota Permai Golf and Country Club but it was young nine-handicapper Galvin Green who left a lasting impression on the 18-year-old from Northern Ireland.

"He (Green) is absolutely awesome," McIlroy told the European Tour’s official Web site (www.europeantour.com). "I really can’t get over how good he is and that really made the day.

"He is an incredibly talented prospect for the future. It was nice to play with him and even though I played pretty well, he made me look pretty average."

The 4-foot-7 Green, who romped to a 14-shot victory in the world under-eight championship, was carrying the ball about 170 yards on Wednesday.

McIlroy, who first made headlines with a flawless opening 68 in last year’s British Open at Carnoustie, said the stocky Malaysian was a better golfer than he was at the same age.

"I got (my handicap) down to single figures when I was 11 so he is three years ahead of me," said the teenager.

Green’s golfing talents run in the family as his older brother Gavin is also the world under-14 champion.

"Galvin is a strong kid," said McIlroy. "He has solid legs and quite big forearms for a kid of that age.

"He is probably a little short in height but his dad seemed tall and if he can grow to his dad’s height and have a swing like that he could go very far.

"He came off the course today and had lunch and you could see he was so bored, he just wanted to go out and play. He absolutely loves it."

McIlroy’s fellow countryman Darren Clarke also had a day to remember, partnered by the King of Malaysia, a 12-handicapper.

"It was a privilege to play with the King," said Clarke. "He played well and the team played well so it was a fun morning."