Kite flying festival kicks off in Cambodia

(Xinhua) -- The 19th kite flying festival was held here here on Thursday with the participation of about 100 kite flyers from across the country.

Culture and Fine Arts Secretary of State Samraing Kamsan said the annual festival was aimed at conserving Cambodian culture and tradition and introducing a variety of kites to younger generations.

"The event not only creates a joyful atmosphere for visitors, but also promotes culture and tradition to next generations and encourages them to pay attention to the protection of national identification,"he said.

Kites have existed in Cambodia for over 2,000 years. He said that farmers and rural children play kites during a rice harvest season between December and February.

At the festival, kites, made in the shapes of various animals, birds and objects, are flown. A winning kite was judged by its beauty with high and stable flying.

Yen Sina, 38, a kite flyer from central Kampong Thom province, said it was the third time he joined the contest.

"Today, my kite was awarded the champion," he said.

"This festival is vital to preserving the culture of kite flying, which has existed in Cambodia since old times."

source: http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2015-11/12/c_134809234.htm