Tensions escalated on 7/12 after Cambodian and Thai troops exchanged fire along a disputed border in northeastern Thailand. The conflict between the two sides began in July and was followed by a peace agreement signed in Malaysia, but both countries have repeatedly accused each other of violations.

The tense situation occurred just two days before the opening ceremony of the 33rd SEA Games in Bangkok. Ensuring the security of the Cambodian sports delegation has become a challenge for the host nation.

The Cambodian swimming, taekwondo, and ju-jitsu teams arrived at Techo International Airport in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on the morning of 8/12, before heading to Thailand for the 33rd SEA Games. Photo: Olympic Cambodia

Gongsak Yodmani, director general of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), stated that two scenarios have been prepared. "If Cambodian athletes and officials arrive as originally scheduled, Thailand will double, even triple, its security plan to ensure maximum safety. Should they decide not to participate, we will adjust the competition schedule accordingly," he told the Thai newspaper Thairath.

Cambodia has not indicated any further withdrawal. On the morning of 8/12, the taekwondo, ju-jitsu, and swimming teams departed Cambodia for Thailand.

Cambodia initially planned to compete in 21 sports. However, on 26/11, the country's National Olympic Committee (NOCC) sent a letter to the Southeast Asian Games Federation (SEAGF) and the 33rd SEA Games Organizing Committee, announcing its withdrawal from eight sports: football, sepaktakraw, petanque, wrestling, and martial arts including judo, karate, pencak silat, and wushu. One day later, they announced an additional withdrawal from volleyball.

Cambodia's withdrawal necessitated adjustments to the men's football schedule by the SEA Games Organizing Committee. Singapore was consequently moved from group C to group A as a replacement.

The 12 sports Cambodia confirmed its participation in include swimming, athletics, esports, fencing, gymnastics, ju-jitsu, kick boxing, taekwondo, equestrian, jetski, triathlon, and teqball, with approximately 100 athletes.

Cambodia and Thailand are currently facing border tensions. This has led to intense public debate in Cambodia, with many suggesting that the country should not attend this year's games to ensure the safety of its athletes.

Cambodia requested that Thailand take responsibility for ensuring the security and safety of all members, while also guaranteeing transparency and fairness in competitions. Meanwhile, the Cambodian sports delegation was advised to maintain caution and discipline. The delegation must assign personnel to oversee each sport and conduct daily roll calls. Athletes are required to travel in groups, avoid going alone, and maintain clear communication.

Hieu Luong