Battambang province will hold a two-day exhibition of Khmer food on New Year’s to attract domestic and international tourists, said a provincial Department of Tourism official.
Tourism department deputy director Nou Tha explained that holding the food fair made perfect sense, as the province is rich in history, culture and traditions.
“There is a famous song about our province by the most famous Khmer singer of all time, Sinn Sisamouth, that often comes to mind when Khmer hear the name ‘Battambang’. Throughout the song Battambang, the golden voiced emperor describes the delicious food that the province is famous for. He mentions fish amok, salted fish, oranges, and even Battambang wax coconut,” he said.
He said the New Year’s event would reflect the culinary identity of the people of the province, and would be a great chance for visitors to get to know them.
“We want to show off the Khmer food that our ancestors left to us. We hope to lure many tourists to Battambang with our delicious meals,” added Tha.
He added that the presentation of Khmer food was organised by members of the public, as well as the tourism community and state institutions.
In addition to the food fair, there are also plans to thrill the crowds with circus performances from Phare Ponleu Selpak, traditional dances and a fireworks display. Product exhibitions will also be organised to educate guests to the province about some of its most famous goods.
Provincial governor Sok Lou said that the authorities had inspected the venue for the fair, and were looking forward welcoming visitors from all over the world to the province.
The Khmer food fair and live performances are scheduled to take place on December 30 and 31 in front of the provincial hall in Ratanak commune, Battambang town.
