AKP Siem Reap, February 23, 2026 --

The Siem Reap provincial administration organised the second “Khmer Ek” and Freestyle Kite Festival from Feb. 20-22 at the former Siem Reap International Airport, aiming to preserve Cambodia’s cultural heritage and promote tourism.

The festival showcased a long-standing Khmer tradition practiced during the harvest season, when favourable winds allow communities to fly kites across fields and villages. The event attracted public participation and highlighted the cultural significance of the “Khlaeng Ek” (traditional Khmer kite), which has roots dating back thousands of years and is depicted in inscriptions from the 9th century.

Mr. Muon Sopheap, Director of the Siem Reap Department of Culture and Fine Arts, said kite flying traditionally symbolises prayers for dry weather during the rice harvest. He noted that traditional Khmer kites, especially the “Khlaeng Ek”, had declined in recent years, prompting authorities to organise cultural events to revive and safeguard the practice. He added that the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts plans to propose the “Khlaeng Ek” for UNESCO World Heritage listing.

This year’s festival featured 138 kites, including 93 traditional kites and 45 free-style kites, from several provinces and Phnom Penh. Participation declined slightly compared to last year due to the Cambodia-Thailand border situation, he said.

Mr. An Kunrath, Director of Wat Bo Primary School, said his students built and flew traditional kites for the first time to learn about national heritage and cultural values.

Deputy Governor of Siem Reap, Mr. Ly Sary, said the festival not only created a joyful public atmosphere but also helped transfer traditional knowledge to younger generations and strengthen Cambodia’s intangible cultural identity. He added that the event plays an important role in attracting both domestic and international tourists to Siem Reap.

He called on government institutions, the private sector, local communities, and tourists to continue supporting cultural events to sustain tourism growth and preserve Cambodian traditions in the years ahead.

“Khlaeng Ek” is a traditional musical kite featuring a bow-shaped attachment that produces a unique humming sound when flown.

Beyond the competitive kite flying displays, the 2026 programme featured exhibitions on the intricate craftsmanship required to build the Khmer Ek; traditional Lakhon Bassac (theatrical folk opera) stages; and educational displays on the evolution of Khmer kites.

Article in Khmer by Khuth Sao
Article in English by C. Nika