In 2006, our founder, Melita Koulmandas bought the tiny Cambodian island of Koh Ouen and later, the neighbouring island of Koh Bong. As the first developer in the Koh Rong Archipelago, when constructing Song Saa Private Island, she felt a deep sense of responsibility to lead by example and set the benchmark for sustainable tourism in the region, demonstrating first-hand how investor interests can be aligned with those of the environment and local communities.
We launched the Song Saa Marine Reserve – Cambodia’s first ever government recognised private marine reserve. Our team also pioneered a Solid Waste Management (SWM) Centre with an easy-to-use system for local residents, in addition to farming projects for the nearby village of Prek Svay. Such developments culminated in our founding of the Song Saa Foundation in 2013, paving the way for further projects on environmental protection, medical campaigns and cultural recognition. Song Saa Private Island continues to act as a driving force for the foundation through CSR donations.