Phnom Penh, Cambodia – As the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand approaches in 2025, Cambodia is intensifying its preparations, with a significant focus on enhancing athlete discipline and ethics. Mr. Vath Chamroeun, Secretary of State for the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport, has emphasized the critical importance of these values, alongside technical proficiency and comprehensive physical and mental well-being, for all Cambodian athletes selected to represent the nation.
During a recent seminar, Mr. Chamroeun delivered a powerful message to the prospective participants, highlighting three core principles. First, athletes are reminded that their participation is a matter of national honor, representing the pride and image of Cambodia on an international stage. Second, ensuring their safe return from the Games is paramount. Lastly, and crucially, each athlete is urged to compete with their utmost capability, striving for peak performance in every event.
In a collaborative effort, the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport partnered with the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC) to organize a specialized seminar focused on discipline and competition ethics. This vital training session, held at the National Training Center from November 1st to 2nd, was designed for Cambodian sports delegates heading to the 33rd SEA Games. According to the NOCC Secretary General, the seminar’s primary objective was to bolster athletes’ understanding of stringent discipline, refine their technical skills, and prepare them mentally and physically for the demands of international competition in Thailand. The initiative also aimed to establish robust protocols to ensure the safety and smooth operation of athlete activities throughout their participation in the Games.
The foundational message reiterated throughout the training underscored that athletes are competing not just for personal glory but as ambassadors showcasing Cambodia’s spirit and determination. Maintaining the highest standards of safety for all delegates was also a key theme. Ultimately, the emphasis was placed on competing fiercely and professionally to secure national honor through medal wins, record-breaking performances, and outstanding sportsmanship across all disciplines.
For the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in 2025, Cambodia plans to field a delegation across 12 distinct sports categories. These include: Athletics, Swimming, Equestrian, Fencing, Jujitsu, Table Football, Esports, Jet Ski, Gymnastics, Kickboxing, Triathlon, and Taekwondo.
It is noteworthy that Cambodia had previously made the strategic decision to withdraw eight other sports categories from its participation roster for the Thailand Games. This measure was taken due to pressing concerns regarding athlete safety and security, particularly as many of these events were scheduled to take place in Songkhla province, an area currently grappling with severe flooding. The sports affected by this withdrawal include: Judo, Karate, Pencak Silat, Petanque, Boxing, Wushu, Football, and Sepak Takraw. This careful consideration underscores Cambodia’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of its athletes above all else.
