Bangkok: The torch relay for the 33rd SEA Games and the ASEAN Para Games took place in a vibrant event involving sports and entertainment figures across four host provinces. Mr. Atthakorn Sirilathayakorn, the Minister of Tourism and Sports, led the ceremony to bring the royal flame for the relay, attended by diplomats from ASEAN countries, Bangkok Governor Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Sports Authority of Thailand Governor Dr. Kongsak Yodmanee, and national athletes. The event occurred at the Indoor Stadium Huamark.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Atthakorn expressed gratitude to His Majesty the King for bestowing the "Royal Flame" on November 6th, highlighting its significance as a symbol of purity and a morale booster for organizers and athletes. The torch relay began with Bangkok lighting the first torch, with Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt running the initial leg from the Huamark Indoor Stadium. The relay featured 73 torchbearers, including notable figures like Balang Taptimdaeng and Sombat "Buakaw" Banchamek, concluding back at the stadium at 8:00 PM.
Mr. Atthakorn, alongside Mr. Noraphol Tantimontri and Dr. Kongsak Yodmanee, inspected renovations at the Sports Authority of Thailand's Aquatics Center, ensuring its readiness for the SEA Games. Mr. Atthakorn confirmed the swimming pool's completion by November 28th, with the ASEAN Masters Swimming Championships testing the facilities from November 29th to 30th, followed by a training camp beginning December 1st.
The 33rd SEA Games is scheduled from December 9-20, 2025, in Bangkok, Chonburi, and Songkhla, with the opening ceremony on December 9 at Rajamangala National Stadium. The 13th ASEAN Para Games will occur from January 20-26, 2026, in Nakhon Ratchasima Province.