In Siem Reap, tens of thousands of local and international visitors have been gathering during the Water Festival, thanks to new infrastructure achievements in the province, including the Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI).

Provincial governor Prak Sophorn stated that the first day of the November 26-27 festival proceeded peacefully, with good public order and safety. He emphasised the event's contribution to revitalising the tourism industry in the province.

He noted that the event, held on the Siem Reap river, had been postponed for two years due to the pandemic. The festival is dedicated to the souls of ancestors and the spirits that protect Cambodia and is aimed at blessing the country with happiness and prosperity.

The governor noted the increase in the number of people compared to the previous year and attributed it to new infrastructure developments such as 38 new roads and the SAI.

He stated that the province has seen an improvement in its beauty and become a more visitor-friendly town due to the upgrades. 

"We are proud that Siem Reap is a popular tourism destination globally," he commented.

He also encouraged visitors to maintain good hygiene, particularly in the Angkor areas.

The boat racing event in the province featured 32 boats with 821 athletes participating, some from the neighbouring Preah Vihear province.

On the first day of the festival, the Ministry of Tourism reported that over 84,000 people visited Siem Reap, which also hosted the World Kun Khmer boxing event.