Q: How does golf tourism fit Cambodia’s growth story? 

Oknha Chetna Chhun, managing director: Golf in Cambodia is new. It’s coming out of the shadows, and golf is still pretty new here. So, we’re trying to make golf as popular as possible, and in the future, we aim to be on par with other nearby countries. What we’re trying to do is build a world-class golf course—not just for the Cambodian market, but for the region and the world. We want to leave a footprint, to show the world that Cambodia can build something of this caliber. We have the ability to create a world-class golf course, and we’re trying to promote this by hosting events and educating the local population.   

The challenge, though, is that many Cambodians don’t even know what golf is, so we’re working hard to educate and show them what it’s all about, and what other countries have been doing with golf. 

Q: What makes Chhun On Golf Resort stand out? 

OCC: We are the first in Cambodia to have the 19th hole, which is on an island shaped like Cambodia. We’ve mimicked the geography of the country, with green areas on the island, coastal sand bunkers and even mountain rain formations. The landscape is inspired by places like the Mekong River and the deepest lake in Mondulkiri province.   

We’ve also incorporated the national flower of Cambodia, the rumdul, into the design of the clubhouse, which has a unique shape based on the rumdul flower. It’s one of the biggest clubhouses in the country, and visitors have never seen anything like it.   

We have two separate courses: the Lake Course and the Palm Course. Each has its own unique layout and atmosphere. The Palm Course, for example, is dominated by sugar palms, while the Lake Course is more of a challenge with its contours and sand bunkers.   

The two courses offer golfers a unique experience—they can choose between a more challenging course or one that’s more about scenic beauty. The Palm Course has large waste bunkers, while the Lake Course features a variety of green designs and more challenging layouts.   

We also use white sand—the first course in Cambodia to do so—which gives the course a distinct look, contrasting beautifully with the green landscape. 

Q: How are you expanding the golf experience? 

OCC: We want to build a community where golf and wellness can coexist. In the future, we plan to have more facilities like a wellness spa and luxury villas around the golf course. The idea is to create a destination that not only offers a top-tier golf experience but also a tranquil environment where people can relax in nature. The goal is to build a community where visitors and residents can enjoy lush gardens, a calm atmosphere and stay connected with nature. 

Q: How do you support Cambodia as a golf destination? 

OCC: We are actively working with local authorities and tourism boards to position Cambodia as a golf destination. Our efforts include hosting events, promoting golf education and showcasing the country’s potential to international audiences. We aim to align with national tourism strategies to attract global golfers and investors.

Q: What are your plans for the next five years? 

OCC: We want the world to know about our course and to establish a reputation as a world-class golf destination. Our ultimate goal is to put Cambodia on the map as a top destination for golf, to show that we can create something that attracts global golfers. We aim to change perceptions about Cambodia and show that we’re doing something innovative and world-class.   

We also plan to preserve Cambodia’s natural flora by introducing native trees and plants from different provinces, creating a truly unique environment. The Palm Course, for example, is full of sugar palms, which is our national tree. 

Q: How open are you to global partners? 

OCC: We have several hundred hectares of land available for development. Our vision is to create a community with social infrastructure, including schools, hospitals and residential areas. As Cambodia’s economy grows, this area is well positioned to become a hub for both residents and tourists.   

We’re also looking for international partnerships—whether from Japan, the U.S. or Europe—who want to bring expertise, build facilities or create more luxury services for tourists.   

We are open to all kinds of ideas, from Western companies or Japanese investors, to create something that not only attracts people to the golf course but also enriches the local community. We want to work with investors who are committed to sustainable development and improving local skills. 

Q: Why should global investors consider Cambodia? 

OCC: Come and experience it for yourself. Cambodia has so much to offer—its peaceful nature, friendly people and world-class golf. People often have misconceptions about Cambodia, but once they visit, they realize how welcoming and safe it is. We want to show the world that Cambodia is a great place to visit, especially for golfers.   

Once people come and experience it, they realize it’s not what they heard abroad. Cambodia is a beautiful country with so much to offer.