AKP Phnom Penh, December 10, 2025 --

The National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC) has announced the early withdrawal of the Cambodian delegation from the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand due to safety concerns.

In a letter addressed to H.E. Dato' Seri Chaiyapak Siriwat, Chief Executive Officer of the Southeast Asian Games Federation, NOCC Secretary General H.E. Vath Chamroeun stated that the decision follows serious concerns raised by the families of the athletes, who requested that their relatives return home immediately.

“Due to these concerns and for the safety of our athletes, the NOCC must withdraw all members of the delegation and arrange for their prompt return to Cambodia,” he wrote in the letter dated Dec. 10.

H.E. Vath Chamroeun stressed that the decision “was not made lightly,” expressing appreciation for the hospitality, warmth, and spirit of sportsmanship extended to the Cambodian athletes by THASOC and the National Olympic Committee of Thailand (NOCT) throughout their stay.

He also apologised for any inconvenience the early departure may cause, and conveyed gratitude for H.E. Dato' Seri Chaiyapak Siriwat’s understanding and support.

By C. Nika