Cempedak Private Island
Bintan, Indonesia
Cempedak Private Island
Marine Eco Lodges
Since May 2018
Vernacular bamboo architecture, the establishment of a 138,500-ha Marine Protected Area, combating plastic pollution, innovative solutions reducing energy, water use, and waste, and support for the education of over 3,000 local students are just some reasons why Cempedak has become renowned regionally for delivering a responsible yet bespoke private island experience.
Cempedak, a 42-acre private island 9 km off Bintan's east coast and 2.5 hours from Singapore, is the owner-managed, adults-only sister property of nearby Nikoi Island. Disenchanted with standard holiday offerings near Singapore, the owners sought cultural sensitivity, vernacular design, good service, and simple luxuries when developing the properties. After a decade of success at Nikoi Island, they were prompted to search for another island, leading to Cempedak. After learning from Nikoi and being driven by their commitment to environmental sensitivity, local culture, and community engagement, they were inspired to use bamboo as the primary building material for Cempedak.
CONSERVATION
Cempedak Private Island partnered with Conservation International and created a local NGO to help establish a 138,500-ha Marine Protected Area.
Zero-waste operations through responsible sourcing and innovative waste management solutions.
COMMUNITY
An estimated 16,000 people in Bintan and surrounding islands have been positively impacted by the operations of the business.
Through the Island Foundation, over 3,000 children have been impacted, and 1,500 local teachers have been trained.
CULTURE
Preservation of traditional stories through various guest experiences, including a phone booth installation and visiting local elders.
Preservation of Indonesian culinary heritage through the use of local ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and a cookbook that showcases authentic recipes.
COMMERCE
Establishment of an internally managed staff savings and loan scheme which offers a lower-cost solution than local banks.
Financially supporting local charities through the Island Club membership program and the organization of fundraising events.
Cempedak Private Island’s Highlights
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Private island - ringed with white sandy beaches and studded with magnificent white granite boulders. Rising to a height of 40m, the island boasts a protected rainforest that provides sanctuary to a diverse population of local birds and animals including hornbills, eagles, kingfishers, otters and pangolins.
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Guest accommodation - handcrafted from bamboo with vernacular ‘alang alang’ grass roofs all 20 villas have private plunge pools with either direct access to the beach or glorious sea views.
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Local cuisine - daily set menus are prepared according to the seasonal availability of ingredients from the markets to minimize food waste, support local suppliers and promote traditional cuisine.
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Community impact - An estimated 16,000 local community members positively impacted by the business and the foundations it set up.
