’Atthakorn‘ says SEA Games will ensure equal treatment for Cambodian athletes, Keeping border conflicts separate from sports

On November 18, 2025, Mr. Atthakorn Sirilathayakorn, Minister of Tourism and Sports, looked over Cambodia's preparations to care for athletes in the 33rd SEA Games, which will be held in Thailand. He added that he had spoken with executives from Thailand's Sports Authority and saw no bias between Cambodian athletes and athletes from other countries. We treated them as athletes and visitors and gave the greatest possible support, both in terms of convenience and security.

Concerned that Cambodian athletes would disrupt the competition, similar to beauty pageant competitions, Mr. Atthakorn claimed that it was his responsibility to determine whether they were athletes and shown good sportsmanship. He believed it was their position to compete. Thailand was responsible for ensuring security for all countries, not just one.

Furthermore, 300 athletes and staff withdrew from the competition, a decision that was made after the fact. Mr. Atthakorn stated that he would not criticize the preparedness of other countries and confirmed that all countries were equally protected. He stated that coordination had already been made with both the police and the Sports Authority of Thailand.

Regarding the request for Cambodian athletes to refrain from making symbolic gestures regarding the border issues, Mr. Atthakorn stated that this is a matter of concern, but one that should not be confused with politics or other conflicts.

The 33rd SEA Games (SEA Games 2025), hosted by Thailand under the theme "Bringing Southeast Asia Together," will take place from 9-20 December, 2025. The competition will be held in 10 provinces to encourage participation from the public, including Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Prakan, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Prakan, Chonburi, Rayong, Ratchaburi, Songkhla, and Chiang Mai.

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