Spectators packed out Morodok Techo Stadium as the host nation of the 32nd SEA Games wowed crowds with a three-hour Opening Ceremony. Think incredible firework displays, laser shows, projection mapping and impressive cultural performances.
Despite the official ceremony starting at 6pm, crowds flocked to the new purpose-built 60,000 seater stadium hours early to secure themselves a seat for the official opening ceremony of the South East Asian Games (SEA Games). As they waited, the audience was treated to lively performances from Cambodian comedians and singers.
The Official Opening of the 32nd SEA Games
The crowd went wild when the official ceremony kick-started with a laser show depicting a clock counting down from 10 to one on the pitch. This was followed by a spectacular display of light and colour that sparked ripples of excitement from the audience. Cheers accompanied the explosion of fireworks that lit up the sky.
The event was attended by a host of high-ranking officials and dignitaries from the 11 ASEAN nations. This included Laotian president Thongloun Sisoulith, and Tan Chuan-Jin, chairman of Singapore National Olympic Council and Speaker of Parliament. Prime Minister Hun Sen presided over the event and watched on in amazement alongside his wife Bun Rany.
A cultural journey into Cambodia’s past
Cambodia’s rich history and cultural heritage was celebrated with a colourful 45-minute performance that saw hundreds of dancers delve back in time. Starting from the birth of the Khmer kingdom, through to modern day Cambodia, apsara dancing, shadow puppet and mask theatre, bokator and other prized traditional Khmer art forms were woven into the performances.
This was followed by a parade of nations, where each participating nation’s flag bearers, athletes, officials, and dignitaries took to the stadium to a roaring crowd. The audience was whipped into a frenzy when the Cambodian team entered the stadium, proudly waving the national flag.
This is the first time in history that Cambodia has hosted the SEA Games, with events running across the country until May 17.
