Annual community centric festival for all
The Pasir Gudang International Kite Festival (PGIKF) had been successfully organised for the 24th year. The prestigious event attracted more than 1000 participants from 45 countries around the globe including newcomers; Columbia, Bulgaria, Hungary and Venezuela.
With the theme “The Beauty of Culture”, the 5-day-festival was launched by Tunku Puteri Johor, Tunku Tun Aminah Sultan Ibrahim.
The highlight was the unique LED-lit kite performance that had caught the attention of many during the launch.
Among other activities held throughout the festival include kite workshops, kite performance from local and international participants, Wau competition for local flyers as well as cultural and guest artist performances.
This year, the festival also witnessed a remarkable achievement for Pasir Gudang Municipal Council which signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Satun Provincial Administrative Organisation to build a Kite Museum in Satun, Thailand.
The festival ended with prize giving and closing ceremony for local and international participants held at Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort.
“This festival that nurtures and preserves our cultural heritage has united all races from all walks of life. We would like to thank everyone for their endless support and commitment,” said Datuk A Rahim Nin, The President of Malaysian Kite Flyers Council during his closing speech.
“Early preparation is expected for 2020 since Johor will be hosting Sukan Malaysia (SUKMA) and PGIKF will also be included into Visit Johor 2020 event calendar,” he added.
Michael Alvares who gave his speech on behalf of international participants said he had a wonderful time here in Pasir Gudang, Johor. “The festival was fantastic and well organised. We look forward to its 25th anniversary,” said Alvares.
The overall winner for 24th Pasir Gudang International Kite Festival went to Kedah which brought back trophies and cash. Kelantan and Kuala Lumpur won the second and third place, respectively.
PGIKF is one of tourism signature events hosted by Johor state government through Pasir Gudang Municipal Council in collaboration with Malaysian Kite Flyers Council and Johor Kite Flyers Association.
