Prime Minister Hun Sen has given hope and confidence to Team Cambodian, saying that he fervently believes they will be able to double their medal count at the upcoming 32nd SEA Games and 12th ASEAN Para Games.
He assured them that the government has made in-depth preparations to ensure that the events go as smoothly as possible, so they need only focus on their training regimes, ahead of the historic event.
While addressing 4,264 members of the Cambodian sports family at an April 3 solidarity meal in Phnom Penh, he acknowledged that the athletes must be tired but that they need to shoulder their enormous responsibility.
“Each of you is competing for the chance to further the Kingdom’s image on the international stage, so no matter how weary you may feel, you need to train hard to ensure success. Victories will not come from anything else, even drugs,” he told the assembled coaches, trainers and athletes.
“Whether you are competing at the SEA Games or the Para Games, I am looking forward to a record haul. Our para athletes have a long history of success, and Yi Veasna has assured me that we might double our victories at the Para games. I look forward to seeing your results,” he said, referring to the secretary-general of the National Paralympic Committee of Cambodia.
In addition, he spoke of his high expectations for the athletes who will contest the SEA Games.
“The fact that we are competing on our home soil should provide extra motivation – I hope we double our medal tally at the SEA Games events as well,” he added.
The 32nd SEA Games, which will be held from May 5-17, will feature 581 events in 37 sports. The 12th ASEAN Para Games will be held from June 3-9 with 431 events in 13 sports.
According to Minister of Tourism Thong Khon, who is also permanent vice-chair of the organising committees of both games, Cambodia expects up to 12,404 sporting delegates from all competing countries.
“Organising their transport and accommodation will be a huge challenge on its own. This will be the largest-scale reception we have ever hosted,” said Hun Sen.
He stressed that Cambodia, as the host country, must maintain optimal conditions for the athletes as they make their ways to various events. He requested the patience and understanding of the residents of Phnom Penh.
“It is clear that there is likely to be some measure of congestion in the capital, especially before and after events. Therefore, I ask for understanding from Phnom Penh residents. As hosts, we are responsible for ensuring that our more than 12,000 guests are safe and comfortable. We should also bear in mind that we expect many fans from around the world to attend the events as well,” he said.
“I look forward to some excellent results and believe that we will all increase the honour of the Kingdom through the quality of our hosting. In addition, I am optimistic that Team Cambodia will set records on the field, and we will all recall the 2023 SEA Games-ASEAN Para Games with pride,” he said.
