The CIMB Classic is part of the PGA Tour's 2015-16 wrap around season and counts towards the 2016 season for which Lahiri has already secured a card.
And buoyed by Lahiri's success, SSP Chawrasia, who missed his full European Tour card by a whisker last week in Hong Kong, is hopeful of turning in a good display.
"In golf there is always a chance," said Chawrasia. "Yes, I'm very happy to be playing this week. There are a lot of great and top players here and I'm glad to be among them."
"I played many times on this course so I feel comfortable and positive here. I know where to score. My game is okay, I've been playing really well this year. I've only been struggling with my putter so I've been practicing to make it better. I have not won this year but there are many events including this one. I will try my best to win one."
American Ryan Moore is not feeling any pressure when he aims for a third straight victory here.
Moore, who won the prestigious event in 2013 and 2014, said he has nothing to prove when he defends his title against an elite field who includes Major winners Adam Scott of Australia and Ernie Els of South Africa, Spaniard Sergio Garcia and Lahiri at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club, West course.
