August 23, 2022
PHNOM PENH – Minister of National Defence General Tea Banh, who also chairs the organising committees for next year’s SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games, announced that 5,270 soldiers will participate in the opening and closing ceremonies of the biennial multi-sports event.
“In his role as president of the Cambodian SEA Games Organising Committee (CAMSOC), Tea Banh decided to utilise the troops to support the committee’s work, especially the opening and closing ceremonies,” said CAMSOC secretary-general Vath Chamroeun.
Minister of Tourism and CAMSOC permanent vice-president Thong Khon instructed Chamroeun to meet with stakeholders led by CAMSOC deputy secretary-general Khieu Chhen, as well as Hab Touch and Hi Vireak – both secretaries of state at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts – to coordinate this work on August 19.
“After the plans were carefully examined, it was determined that this was the correct number of personnel required. They will be assigned specific roles and will undergo training to ensure they are able to do their parts in making both games a spectacular experience,” said Chamroeun.
At the meeting, precise programmes were laid out. They outlined the responsibilities and technical requirements which each of the assigned personnel would take on.
“The work was coordinated smoothly. The members of the armed forces are renowned for their mental strength and physical health, and these will be real strengths as we prepare for our performances,” he added.
Khon agreed that in order for the ceremonies to be successful, members of the army were needed.
“We not only need in excess of 5,000 military personnel but also artists from the culture ministry as well as volunteers from the Cambodian Boxing Federation. Together, we can guarantee a spectacular performance,” said Chamroeun.
“We are employing all of the resources at our disposal, including the latest technology. We will build the honour of Cambodia, as the Kingdom is hosting both the 32nd SEA Games and the 2023 ASEAN Para Games. The ceremonies will be attended by senior leaders, heads of state and government officials from all Southeast Asian countries. The ceremonies will gave them a chance to bear witness to the national potential of the Kingdom,” he added.