Battambang holds food fair to mark UNESCO status

To commemorate the province’s inclusion as the first in Cambodia under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, the Battambang Provincial Administration organized a food fair to show off Khmer cuisine and desserts last Friday.

The food fair concluded successfully yesterday.

On October 31 last year, UNESCO listed Battambang City in the Food Innovation Cities Network (UCCN). It was designated as a creative city of gastronomy.

“The recognition of Battambang as a Creative City of Gastronomy is a tribute to the city’s cultural assets and will be instrumental to promote culture, creativity and enhance the economic growth and tourism income of the communities,” UNESCO Representative to Cambodia Sardar Umar Alam said when Battambang joined UCCN.

Uy Ry, Chairman of the Battambang Provincial Council and Sok Lou, Governor of Battambang province, presided over opening ceremony of the Khmer Food and Dessert Fair on Friday.

“The food sector is sure to attract many national and international tourists to visit Battambang province,” he said.

Ouch Ophinissara, director of the Battambang Provincial Department of Tourism, said the food fair was the second food event organised by the Battambang provincial administration.

He said: “Many local and international tourism players participated in this food expo. Battambang is a lovely and appealing province that is ideal for living, working, and tourism. It is also rich in food.

“Under the direction of the Ministry of Tourism, all these significant potentials draw both domestic and foreign visitors, resulting in an annual growth in the number of tourists visiting Battambang,” he said

Stressing that food is essential to sustaining people’s daily lives, he said “Food is not only a livelihood; it also reflects the culture and traditions of Cambodian society. The abundance of food proves civility and is a testament to the identity of the people.”

“The most important and valuable flavour for travel is food. Tourists in Battambang are interested in the province’s culinary delights and many visitors are keen on learning how to cook.

“Many of Battambang’s food dishes are sold in Phnom Penh, as well as other provinces. This is making a name for Battambang,” he said.

Ophinissara said, “Being added to UNESCO’s cutting-edge food city network is a significant honour for Battambang. This accomplishment is what has piqued attention in Battambang around the world.”