BANGKOK — Cambodia’s sudden decision to withdraw its entire athlete delegation from the 2025 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games surprised the ASEAN sporting community just hours after the event’s opening. The Cambodian contingent of 110 athletes had registered for 13 sports following an earlier reduction from 22 to 13 disciplines, with planned participation in swimming, gymnastics, and martial arts events on December 10. However, all Cambodian athletes and officials, including National Olympic Committee secretary-general Vath Chamroeun, departed Bangkok on December 10.
In a letter to the SEA Games Federation, Chamroeun cited “serious concerns” and family requests for athletes’ immediate return to Cambodia due to safety reasons. He expressed gratitude toward the Thailand SEA Games Organising Committee for their hospitality. The move prompted muted reactions from other ASEAN participants, with many declining to comment. Filipino ju-jitsu athlete Elijah Philippe Claravall voiced understanding and hoped for safety and peace, emphasizing sport’s role in fostering unity. The Singapore National Olympic Council reaffirmed its commitment to the Games as a platform for regional friendship and sport.
Cambodia’s withdrawal marks a rare interruption in its SEA Games participation history. The country had previously skipped multiple editions amid political issues but had participated consistently since 1995, including hosting the 2023 Games in Phnom Penh. With Cambodia’s exit, 10 ASEAN nations continue the Games, which launched on December 9 with a colorful ceremony celebrating regional unity under the theme “We are one, connected by the sea.”