In the heart of Cambodia, a monumental eco-tourism celebration transformed Kampong Phluk, in Siem Reap province, with an astonishing 10,000 attendees.

The event marked the anticipated arrival of the Tonle Sap Lake’s rainy season and attracted national and international participants with its vibrant programme.

The two-day extravaganza, organised by the NGO2 Bamboo Shoot Foundation, local authorities, and the Kampong Phluk community, echoed with the spirit of World and National Environment Day. It also recognised the symbiotic relationship between the world’s oceans and Cambodia’s “inland ocean”, culminating in a grand spectacle on June 17 and 18.

Mam Pisey, a youth representative, spoke with enthusiasm about the occasion, saying: “I feel so thrilled as this is the first time such a grand event has occurred in my community with nearly 10,000 national and international guests”.

Sea Sophal, director of foundation, highlighted the centrepiece of the event – a parade of 120 giant puppets representing the Tonle Sap Lake’s diverse avian and aquatic life. Additional festivities included a significant tree planting initiative, symbolising the 1,000 households of Kampong Phluk, as well as a collective effort to remove plastic waste.

Deputy provincial governor Khim Finan commended the community’s dedication to preserving natural resources. “I greatly admire the Kampong Phluk community’s initiative for the common good. Their optimism fills me with high hopes for this community’s promising future”.

The event showcased an intricate blend of tradition, religion and entertainment, including the inauguration of a Sala Chhortean, or almshouse, which represents the worship and religious practices of the ancient Khmer, river blessings, Tonle Sap prayer ceremonies, puppet shows and folk games.

Kampong Phluk, with its stilted houses, floating villages and flooded forests, has become a beacon for eco-tourism, providing a glimpse into the expansive beauty of the Tonle Sap Lake.