As you look up at the hundreds of various kites flying above, your neck might get sore, but the efforts are all worth it. The Borneo International Kite Festival is held at the huge open space of the historic Bintulu Airport. It welcomes fans of kite flying from Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, and beyond who bring their own pieces of kite-making art. While the majority of the kites are typically diamond-shaped and of various colors, some resemble animals and birds. Some kite-makers even create complex kites, consisting of several parts tied together by ropes.
Kite-Flying Competition
Participants from more than 40 countries, including the USA, France, Japan, China, Singapore, Ukraine, and Italy, come to the Bintulu airport to demonstrate both their kite-maneuvering skills and creativity. From train kites to giant inflatable kite structures, the contestants are all about having fun and impressing the crowd. Every year, the festival organizers try to break their previous records. One of the latest was to simultaneously launch 2,500 diamond kites, which formed a huge arched kite tunnel.
Festival Attractions
When you get tired from sky attractions, there are plenty of things you can do on the ground. The festival program includes cultural performances, food stalls with local food, and, of course, craft corners where visitors can make their own kites themselves. The vendors at the arts & crafts market will be selling various hand-made souvenirs and artworks.
Location
Borneo Kite Festival has been taking place at the Bintulu Airport for almost twenty years. The airport serves the residents of the city of Bintulu and is located 10 miles (17 km) from the city's centre. To get to the festival grounds from Bintulu, opt for Route 1 road, which will take you straight to the venue.
