Phnom Penh will not see boat racing during the occasion of Water Festival Celebration this year, although the traditional event can still be organised in provinces across the country, according to a decision made during the Council of Ministers meeting on September 9.

No reason was offered for the cancellation, but celebrations in Phnom Penh have been canceled for the past two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. For the provinces, the government greenlighted the celebration so that it bring can entertainment to the people.

“In each province across the country, celebrations are permitted, based on conditions on the ground. The November festivities will bring joy to the people, promote tourism, and generate income for local people,” said a press statement about the result of the Council of Ministers’ meeting.