In an announcement poised to invigorate both the spirit of the nation and its burgeoning tourism industry, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has declared plans for a grand celebration of the Water Festival in 2024. The decision, which emerged from the outcomes of a recent weekly cabinet meeting, was shared with the public through a press release disseminated by Fresh News on Friday, September 27.
This festival, a cornerstone of Cambodia’s rich cultural tapestry, has historically drawn crowds from across the country and around the globe, basking in its vibrant displays, traditional boat races, and communal festivities. Set against the backdrop of Cambodia’s scenic waterways, the event symbolizes the reversal of the flow of the Tonle Sap River and pays homage to the country’s deep-rooted agricultural and riverine life.
In an ambitious move to extend the festival’s impact and reach, Prime Minister Hun Manet has called upon the National Committee for Organizing National-International Festivals, various government ministries, and the private sector to collaboratively work towards enhancing the event’s scale and splendor. Furthermore, with a special emphasis on the role of the Ministry of Tourism, there’s a strategic push to entice both national and international tourists, aiming to further position Cambodia as a premier destination for cultural tourism.
The Prime Minister also encouraged other provinces and cities to create and host complementary events parallel to the main festivities. This initiative is intended to distribute the economic and cultural benefits more widely across the country, offering a multifaceted tourism experience to visitors. Through such diversification, the government hopes to showcase the wealth of Cambodian culture, heritage, and natural beauty, beyond the main event locales.
Looking ahead, Prime Minister Hun Manet has laid out a vision for the celebration of Angkor Sankranti and provincial Sankranti in 2025, calling for coordination among the Ministry of Tourism, the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC), local authorities, and the private sector. This forward-thinking approach not only underscores the commitment to cultural preservation but also to sustained tourism and economic growth.
Scheduled to take place over three days, from November 14 to 16, 2024, the Water Festival promises an immersive experience with lantern displays that will illuminate the night skies, an array of fireworks that will dazzle attendees, and a blend of classical and contemporary concerts set to entertain and engage attendees of all ages. Additionally, the event is expected to spotlight various arts performances, further enriching the festival’s cultural offerings.
As the country prepares for this significant undertaking, the collective efforts of multiple stakeholders are set to transform the 2024 Water Festival into a showcase of Cambodia’s unity, resilience, and cultural vibrancy. Through expanded participation and enhanced programing, the festival is not merely an event but a reflection of Cambodia’s aspirations for the future—a future where tradition and progress go hand in hand for the enrichment of society and the global community at large.
Source: Fresh News
