As the 12th ASEAN Para Games draws to a close, senior organizers have heaped praise on Cambodia for pulling off an impressive five days of sporting action.

At a closing press conference attended by local and international media, Wandee Tosuwan, Secretary General of the ASEAN Para Sports Federation (APSF), said, “Over the last week, we have witnessed many inspiring actions, new records, and the competitive nature of our young athletes.

“The Games here provides them with great opportunities to prepare for the upcoming Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, next year’s Paralympic Games, and in 30 months’ time, the 13th ASEAN Para Games in Korat.”

He added that APSF and Cambodia ASEAN Para Games Organising Committee (CAMAPGOC) have been collaborating since August last year to organize the event, held for the first time in Cambodia.

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“Although there have been hiccups, we have managed to overcome all challenges in the true spirit of ASEAN friendship,” Tosuwan said. “We have witnessed a wonderful opening ceremony and expect the closing [ceremony] to be even better.”

Tosuwan noted that the event has been covered by more than 1,000 local and international media outlets, who have helped make this “a great Games with unique legacies”.

He noted that organizing the multi-sporting event requires more planning than other Games. For example, classifying each athlete correctly and the inclusion of multiple events. “The issue of accessibility remains the most important aspect in our preparation,” Tosuwan said.

He added that APSF noted that Cambodia has “successfully delivered the Games”. “[Cambodia] has even surpassed our expectations in many organizational areas, despite hosting the Games for the first time,” he said.

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He went on to cite the preparation of sports facilities and venues, the Games Village, as well as food, accommodation, transportation, media, and broadcast facilities, human resources, and para-sports education.

“Our hope is for Cambodia to build on the momentum and success of the 12th ASEAN Para Games towards the hosting of many more international multi-sport Para Games and championships in the future.”

Maj Gen Osoth Bhavilai, APSF President, said at tonight’s closing ceremony, the baton will be handed over to Thailand, who will host the 13th ASEAN Para Games in Korat in January 2026.

“The 13th ASEAN Para Games in 2026 will mark the return of the Games to Thailand, specifically to Korat, after 17 years,” he said.

“Thailand last hosted the Games in 2008 in Korat, where 14 sports were contested. With its vast experience in hosting many international events, I believe Thailand is capable of delivering a smooth Games.”

Bhavilai also thanked Cambodia for hosting the Games. “It has been an exciting one week, with lots of inspiring sporting action,” he said.

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marissa.carruthers@kiripost.com