The Journey of Mr. Kith Chhern – From Hardship to Business Legacy

A Humble Beginning Born on February 8, 1961, in Krang Thnong Village, Takeo Province, Mr. Kith Chhern grew up in a modest farming family. His parents, Tuy Hing and Hak Em, worked tirelessly in agriculture and trading, instilling in him the values of perseverance and hard work. As the eldest of seven siblings, he took on great responsibility from an early age, balancing his studies at Prasat Neang Khmao Primary School with assisting his family in their daily struggles. Even as a young boy, Mr. Chhern displayed an unwavering commitment to education and diligence. However, his childhood was soon overshadowed by one of the darkest periods in Cambodian history—the Khmer Rouge regime.

Surviving the Khmer Rouge Era Between 1975 and 1979, Cambodia was plunged into devastation under the Khmer Rouge. At just 16 years old, Mr. Chhern was forcibly separated from his family and assigned to a youth labor group. He endured years of grueling work in Steung Meanchey, Boeng Chheung Ek, and Trapeang Kraleung’s remote forests, where he labored under extreme conditions. Despite facing starvation, forced labor, and witnessing unimaginable suffering, he survived. The experience shaped his resilience, making him deeply aware of human endurance and the necessity of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Rebuilding After War Following Cambodia’s liberation in 1979, Mr. Chhern faced continued challenges. That same year, he was drafted into the Khmer People’s National Liberation Armed Forces, where he served until 1985. It was during this period that he met his wife, Ms. Nou Yean, with whom he later built a family. After leaving military service, he relocated to the Site 8 refugee camp on the Cambodian-Thai border, where he resumed his education. He mastered Khmer, English, and Thai, taught others at the camp, and demonstrated leadership that would later define his career. Yet, life remained uncertain, marked by financial hardship and an unclear future.

The Path to Entrepreneurship In 1992, Mr. Chhern returned to Phnom Penh and secured work as an English interpreter for UNTAC (United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia). His role ended when UNTAC’s mission concluded, and without formal education, he struggled to find stable employment. Determined to succeed, he entered Cambodia’s growing private sector in 1994, taking on small jobs in glass installation and ceiling construction. This experience introduced him to the construction industry, where he would eventually leave an indelible mark. By 2014, after years of informal business operations, he officially registered Chamroeun Sambath Construction Company (CSC Group). What started as a small-scale ceiling and house construction business grew into a multi-industry powerhouse spanning construction, real estate, agriculture, and trading, with assets approaching $100 million.

A Visionary Leader in Cambodian DevelopmentWith a deep understanding of Cambodia’s economic landscape, Mr. Chhern spearheaded large-scale residential, commercial, and industrial projects, particularly in Kampong Speu, Kampot, and Phnom Penh Under his leadership, CSC Group expanded into key sectors such as agro-processing, economic zones, and real estate, playing a crucial role in Cambodia’s development. One of his most ambitious initiatives is the Agro Processing Economic Zone in Phnom Srouch District, Kampong Speu Province—a 234-hectare industrial hub designed to enhance Cambodia’s agricultural industry, promote exports, and create thousands of jobs. His vision is not just about business growth; it is about building a self-sustaining ecosystem where agriculture, industry, and trade thrive together, contributing to Cambodia’s economic independence.

A Legacy of Resilience, Integrity, and Giving Back Despite his success, Mr. Chhern has never forgotten his roots. His leadership is defined by integrity, perseverance, and a commitment to social impact. A dedicated philanthropist, he actively supports underprivileged communities, education initiatives, and youth empowerment programs. As Director General of CSC Group, he continues to drive Cambodia’s transformation by developing infrastructure that enhances housing, industry, and agriculture. His legacy is not just one of wealth but of resilience, innovation, and national progress. From surviving war and hardship to leading one of Cambodia’s most influential business groups, Mr. Kith Chhern’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, vision, and the relentless pursuit of progress. His story inspires generations—proving that adversity is not an end, but a beginning for those determined to rise.