Cambodia on Monday began to celebrate its three-day Lunar New Year -- the Year of the Snake.

In a New Year message to the compatriots, Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed his best wishes to all Cambodians, reaffirming the government's commitment to further boosting economic growth and national development.

He highlighted the kingdom's significant achievements last year in the areas of economy, trade, investment, agriculture, foreign affairs, social affairs, public works and transport, energy, tourism, culture, religious affairs, and telecommunications, among others.

He vowed to continue safeguarding peace and to bring further socio-economic development to the kingdom in the new year.

"In 2025, the Royal Government of Cambodia will continue to vigorously implement its historic mission with a strong, relentless and energetic commitment to deeper and broader reforms in all areas," Hun Manet said.

The traditional New Year is the largest holiday in the Southeast Asian country.

On occasion, people prepare food, fruits, and soft drinks on altars, as well as light candles and incense sticks, in order to greet the New Year's angel.

Besides, they bring food, cash gifts, and praying stuff to offer to Buddhist monks at pagodas in order to dedicate to their ancestors and pray for longevity, good luck, happiness and prosperity in the New Year.

The traditional New Year is also the time for young girls and boys to gather and play various games, dancing and singing in the vicinity of pagodas and tourist resorts throughout the kingdom.