The first Borneo International Kite Festival, was held in Bintulu Sarawak in the year 2005. The idea of organizing this event was first muted by the Honorable Chief Minister of Sarawak.  Bintulu was chosen as a venue after considering its great potential after the old airport was closed down and making the basic infrastructure left behind an ideal and perfect site for the event.  Its location that is not far from the seaside contributes a perfect wind blowing direction enabling kites to be flown consistently.  Since then, it has become an annual event and successfully attracted large crowd witnessing and participating in this event.  It has also attracted more kite enthusiasts locally and from all over the world to come to Bintulu.

This major event is organized by Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) in collaboration with the Malaysian Kite Council (MPM), Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), Ministry of Urban Development and Tourism Sarawak, Ministry of Tourism Malaysia, Sarawak Tourism Board, Ministry of Culture, Art and Heritage Malaysia,The Resident and District Office Bintulu and all government department in Bintulu.

The Borneo International Kite Festival, Bintulu promises great thrill and excitement along with its spectacular showcase of kite creativity put together by all the international kite flyers from all over the world and it is also a catalyst for the legendary local kiting tradition kite making competition and flying championship.  Spectators can witness the skills where hand laboured over bamboo and paper to create a winning kite traditional design and also swirling performances from local and international kite flyers displaying their skill.  Watch the sky for multitude of kite in various form, colours and shapes roaming Bintulu airspace.

In addition, a week long trade and expo is also held during this festival next to the site.  It provides opportunity for local businessman and traders selling and promoting various products and nightly cultural performances had been scheduled to spice up the stay at night during this week long festival