Tradition: Tens of thousands of people at the biggest traditional fishing festival in Boeung Trapeang Krom

This weekend, as in previous years, the provincial administration of Thbong Khmum organised the annual traditional fishing festival, an age-old custom handed down from generation to generation.

The event took place on 1 February in Satum village, Choam Kravean commune, Memut district, with the aim of preserving this ancient tradition while encouraging joy and unity among local communities.

According to the Memut district authorities, the festival began at 7.30am at the Boeung Trapeang Krom, where traditional fishing tools such as angrut (braided fish traps), Chhneang (basket traps) and trok (cast nets), among others, were displayed.

The ceremony was presided over by H.E. Pen Kosal, Governor of Thbong Khmum province, and his wife, Lok Chumteav Heng Sam An Pen Kosal, as well as by H.E. Long Theam, Chairman of the Provincial Council. The event was also attended by provincial leaders, local authorities and a massive crowd of tens of thousands of residents and visitors from all over the province and beyond.

Boeung Trapeang Krom covers 30 hectares of wetland, with 20 smaller, branching ponds and rich aquatic vegetation.

Every year in early February, the local community gathers to celebrate this traditional fishing festival, preparing and sharing the catch as part of an age-old cultural practice.

In recent years, the Thbong Khmum provincial administration has expanded the event, attracting increasing participation thanks to extensive media coverage from the Ministry of Information, the Thbong Khmum provincial information department and the media.

The growing popularity of the festival has attracted not only local residents but also foreign tourists, making it one of the most eagerly awaited cultural events in Cambodia.