Phnom Penh (FN), May 18 – Cambodian prime minister Hun Sen said that making the 32nd SEA Games free is a wise decision for Cambodia as the kingdom’s reputation will remain for hundreds of years.

The premier spoke at a graduation of more than 1,000 medical students, held on Thursday morning (May 18) at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel.

"I think I made a wise decision to have Cambodia, as a responsible host, to cover all the expenses and starts participating in the ASEAN Integration Initiative. We can run out of money, but the country’s honor and reputation will always remain," the premier underscored.

As one of the ASEAN leaders, it is necessary to take the initiative on various issues, including sport-related initiatives, the premier added.

Samdech continued, Cambodia spent only an additional USD7 million to cover accommodations, meals, and other aspects for athletes, but the kingdom has gained friendship among ASEAN members.

On 1 April 2023, the Secretariat of the Cambodian Southeast Asia (SEA) Games Organizing Committee of the 32nd SEA Games and the Cambodian ASEAN Para Games Organizing Committee of the 12th ASEAN Para Games 2023 issued an official announcement of free entry for national and international spectators and cancellation of exclusive broadcasting rights fee for the events.
=FRESH NEWS