Khmer New Year is a festival of great significance in cultivating the spirit of national unity and preservation, protection and love for traditions and customs, and in promoting the Khmer civilisation. The remarks were made by His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia, in a royal message to his compatriots ahead of the Khmer Traditional New Year. Khmer New Year is celebrated in April every year since ancient times because it is the time when Cambodians end their harvest season and gather with their family members and friends to welcome the new year as well as to play Khmer folk games, which is a beautiful culture left by Khmer ancestors. His Majesty the King also took the opportunity to wish all his compatriots with the four gems of Buddha blessings - Longevity, Nobility, Health, and Strength. This year, the Year of Dragon, will begin at 22:24 on April 13 and will last until April 16. The New Year's angel is Mohortorea Devy, the seventh daughter of Kabel Moha Prum. Source: Agence Kampuchea Presse