It’s been 17 years since Daniel Chopra first captured the Isklander Johor Open title and now the Swede is in prime position to win again by forging his way four strokes clear of the field.

Daniel Chopra leading the 2011 Iskandar Johor Open. (Picture - www.golfbytourmiss.com)

The Swedish-born Chopra, who turns 38 two days before Christmas, returned to the cours at 7.20am local time Friday and forced his way into a share of second in ending his first round with a 64.

Chopra, who is easily recognised with his bleach-blond hair, then went straight back out to record a 65 on the rain-soaked Horizon Hills course.

“It was an early start for me this morning but I had a good feel with a few birdies to finish up my first round and then made another good birdie putt at the first hole of my second round,” he said.

“But I don’t feel fatigued given I have played 22 holes, and besides we are athletes.  It’s easy for us.”

Chopra won the first of 14 pro career wins at the Royal Johor course in 1993 so he has fond memories of playing well in Malaysia’s southernmost state.

Also having played last week in Singapore, Chopra has managed to catch-up with many friends on the Asian and European Tour given he was a member of the European Tour from 1996 to 2000.

“I love Asia and while I grew up in India, I spent all my youth travelling about Asia,” he said.

“This is my second home.  This is the one place that I can come and I feel at home.  I feel relaxed here.  I understand the people and the culture and how everything works.  So I always feel relaxed and comfortable here.”

And after regaining his PGA Tour card for the 2012 season, Chopra is looking forward to ending his second just as it had started and that is with a victory.