JOHOR BARU: A total of 130 participants from 39 countries will take part in the 26th Pasir Gudang World Kite Festival at Bukit Layang-Layang here from Feb 24 to March 3.
Malaysian Kite Council (MPM) president, Datuk A. Rahim Nin, said among the participating countries are Indonesia, Singapore, Germany, Japan, China, New Zealand, Thailand, England and Argentina.
He said this year's festival, themed "Dynamic Culture", would include 400 local participants and the highlight is the international kite competition, displaying creative designs to the local community
"There will also be kite performances from äcross the country which will showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of traditional Malaysian kites, made from natural materials such as bamboo and paper adorned with intricate designs, adding aesthetic appeal to the kites," he told a media briefing here Sunday (Feb 18).
He said the festival, organised jointly by the Pasir Gudang City Council (MBPG), the Johor Kite Association (PPJ) and the MPM, received cooperation from various parties and related agencies.
Besides international and local kite performances, he said PPJ, in partnership with Ibrahim Sultan Polytechnic (PIS), will introduce a "Stunt Kite" performance to encourage youth participation in kite flying.
A. Rahim said the festival would be officiated by Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi on March 2, adding that some 500,000 local and international visitors are expected to liven up the festival with various activities planned for the public.
The activities include Lighted Drone Competitions, Silat Competitions, Village Feast, guest artiste performances, colouring contests, exhibition and sales booths. -Bernama