PHNOM PENH: King Norodom Sihamoni took his seat as the highest presidency at the Royal Water Festival on the evening of November 26.

Accompanying the King were Honorary Chairman of the Supreme Council of the King, Heng Samrin, President of the Supreme Council of the King, Hun Sen, and two Vice-Chairmen. The President of the Senate, the President of the National Assembly and the Prime Minister also attended along with ministers and officials of the new administration.

This is the first time the Water Festival has been held in Phnom Penh since before Covid and millions have come to the capital city to celebrate.

The Royal Water Festival is held every year in the Kingdom of Cambodia for three days, in late October or November. It often corresponds with the lunar Mid-Autumn Festival and marks the end of the monsoon season.

This festival is popular across the country and is celebrated every year with dragon boat races for men and women, floating lanterns, and prayers to the moon, reflecting strong religious beliefs. Those propelling boats in the race often do so to bring glory to their home province.