BANGKOK — Fighting between Thai and Cambodian forces along their shared border has cast a shadow over the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, which Thailand will host from December 9 to 20.
The clashes began over the weekend after each country accused the other of firing first. Despite the tensions, Cambodia proceeded with a flag-raising ceremony Monday at Bangkok’s Indoor Stadium Huamark, signaling its delegation will compete as planned.
Thana Chaiprasit, head of the Thai national delegation, said Cambodia has sent about 170 athletes. He said Thailand has taken extra steps to protect the delegation, including placing athletes and officials in the same hotel and tightening security around them.
“I don’t anticipate problems, but I advised them to stay inside their accommodation,” Thana said. “If they go out, they should avoid wearing the Cambodian team jersey.” He urged Thai spectators to show goodwill. “If we act inappropriately, by yelling or jeering, the image will not be positive. Cheer peacefully — if you disapprove, remain silent.”
Sports Authority of Thailand governor Kongsak Yodmanee said security agencies have been ordered to increase their presence “two to three times,” with both uniformed and plainclothes police deployed at venues. X-ray machines will be installed at entry points and at hotels housing the Cambodian team.
The Games, involving 11 Southeast Asian nations, mark Thailand’s first time hosting in 18 years. The event has already faced criticism over planning delays tied to a government transition.
Opening Ceremony Highlights
Tourism and Sports Minister Attakorn Sirilatthayakon said preparations for the opening ceremony have been difficult but insisted the program on December 9 will be “commendable and worthy of the nation.”
The ceremony’s theme, “WE ARE ONE,” aims to highlight unity and mark a return to Thailand, where the first SEAP Games were held 66 years ago. Five performances led by Thai and international talent will anchor the show, which organizers say will be among the lowest-pollution ceremonies ever staged as part of the “Friendly Environmental SEA Games.”
Thai K-pop star BamBam will deliver a special performance, while a redesigned torch-lighting ceremony is expected to be one of the event’s signature moments. Attakorn said organizers worked to ensure the torch presentation is impressive yet avoids pollution affecting residents around Rajamangala National Stadium.
“We want everyone to be happy,” he said, “and to have the chance to cheer, watch, taste and enjoy all the activities we are bringing to this year’s SEA Games.”
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