Ever seen a hot air balloon in the shape of a turtle or a coffee mug?

Expect to see many more such unusual hot air balloons from 20 countries at the inaugural Putrajaya Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, to be held at Precinct 2 near the Alaf Baru Monument next month.

The four-day event, which begins on March 19, will feature 25 top balloonists from France, Germany, Japan and the US, among others.

The event, supported by Tourism Malaysia, is co-organised by the Malaysian Sport Aviation Federation and AKA Balloon Sdn Bhd.

Displays of motorised paragliders and remote control flying aircraft will also be featured.

Balloonists from 20 countries will be participating in the Putrajaya Hot Air Balloon Fiesta.

Malaysian Sport Aviation Federation vice president Khairudin Abdul Rani said the event would propel Malaysia into the international hot air balloon arena.

"This event is on par with other established annual events like the ones held in Albuquerque (US), Bristol (UK) and Saga (Japan), which attract more than a million spectators yearly," he said.

The flying of hot air balloons depends on good weather with calm and clear skies, and the weather forecast for Putrajaya in March bodes well for it.

Tethered hot air balloon rides will also be offered to visitors. Other activities include the professional flying of kites, remote control planes and helicopters, as well as a food bazaar and car and bike show.

Entrepreneurs are encouraged to promote their products and services at the exhibitions and auto fairs to be held in conjunction with the event.

The fiesta is open from 7am to 7pm. Admission is free.