With the launch of the 32nd edition of the Southeast Asian Games (also referred to as SEA Games and Cambodia 2023) approaching fast, the host nation of Cambodia reiterated its preparedness to host many visitors from around the region and ensure that the games will be memorable, according to a Khmer Times news report. Take note that this is the first time ever Cambodia will host the SEA Games and already they anticipated it to be a success and provide the best experience. Very recently, they made the food and accommodations for the delegates free.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Khmer Times news article. Some parts in boldface…
With under two weeks remaining until the 32nd SEA Games officially kick off, Cambodia is looking forward to welcoming the tournament at home, and the Kingdom has further affirmed its commitment to make the games a great experience for all involved, according to Vath Chamrouen, secretary-general of Cambodia SEA Games Organising Committee (CAMSOC).
Vath said hosting the SEA Games is an enormous task which needs strong collaboration between different stakeholders to succeed. Challenges have presented themselves from the start of preparations for the games; however, Cambodia remains determined to host the best and its first SEA Games.
“This year’s SEA Games will be different from previous ones. The entrance tickets are free, broadcasting rights are free, and even the participants’ fees have been waived,” said Vath.
“So, please come and visit Cambodia during the SEA Games. We are determined to bring you joyful moments with great hospitality.”
He said all the main venues including the Olympic National Stadium, Morodok Techo Stadium, and the Old Stadium are ready to host the competition as are the venues in Sihanouk, Kep, Kampot, and Siem Reap provinces.
“The preparation team is finalising all the details for the venues, and all the infrastructure serving the SEA Games will be ready on time,” he said.
He added that as of April 20, the sports village, an accommodation facility for athletes during the SEA Games, has been officially inaugurated. That is an important step to welcome athletes who will arrive in Cambodia in late April. The sports village can receive 3,600 athletes during the tournament.
He said that Cambodia has been waiting 64 years for the event and thanks to political stability and the government’s guidance has enable the country to host this big event.
“Thanks for the peace we have. Because without it, we probably couldn’t make this event happen,” he said.
During the inauguration of a new building at the National Pediatric Hospital on April 20, Prime Minister Hun Sen said the main aim of waiving the fees for participants and offering free entrance tickets is to let the world understand Cambodia better.
“We are hosting the SEA Games to let the world know Cambodia because before Cambodia was forgotten,” Prime Minister Hun Sen said on his official Facebook page.
There are 11,246 participants attending this year’s SEA Games including coaching staff and athletes, and 9,000 who are directly involved in training and competing will have their fees paid for by the government. A person usually has to pay $50 a day for accommodation, food and transportation. This waiving of fees has never been offered at previous tournaments, according Vath Chamrouen.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you excited right now for the SEA Games in Cambodia?
You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.
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