SEA Games 33 Organizing Committee speaks out to reassure after series of incidents, affirms opening ceremony 'is not inferior to anyone'

In the context of the 33rd SEA Games continuously facing problems, the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and Governor Gongsak Yodmani have spoken up to explain and reassure public opinion and partially reveal the upcoming opening ceremony.

SAT welcomes constructive comments.

In the first days of the 33rd SEA Games, a series of problems arose that made fans in the region worried: the lights at Rajamangala Stadium went out en masse but there were no replacement bulbs, forcing them to borrow from another stadium; the national anthem played during the U.23 Vietnam - U.23 Laos match, forcing players to sing a cappella; the ticket booking system did not match seat locations; the promotional images for the Virtual Run race used AI but were not meticulous; and many other controversies surrounding coordination and operation.

Under pressure from public opinion, Mr. Gongsak Yodmani said that SAT has fully received feedback from the media and the people. He said: “We are trying to adjust and improve. But with false information, we also have to clarify so that everyone understands correctly.”

SAT Governor Gongsak Yodmani

PHOTO: SEA GAMES 33 Organizing Committee

He emphasized that the organization of the SEA Games is not carried out by SAT alone but involves the organizing committee and sports federations. Therefore, if there are any mistakes in the assigned process, SAT and the committee will take joint responsibility.

On the same day, December 5, 2025, SAT issued a statement emphasizing that there had been a lot of information distorting the role and responsibilities of this agency in preparing for the SEA Games.

“SAT welcomes all constructive criticism,” the statement said. “But if the criticism is based on false information, slander or is harmful to SAT’s reputation, we will take legal action.”

SAT's announcement on handling false information surrounding the 33rd SEA Games

PHOTO: SAT

The agency confirmed that it could handle the matter in a disciplinary, civil or criminal manner depending on the nature of the case. SAT emphasized that this was to “protect the honor and reputation of the organization” and avoid affecting the working spirit of employees.

The opening ceremony of SEA Games 33 will be "second to none"

Amid concerns that the incidents would affect the opening ceremony on December 9, Mr. Gongsak said the entire process was being carefully prepared.

He shared that he attended the rehearsal himself: “We used more than 500 students for the performance. They are talented and the performance was combined with the sports theme, showing the potential of Thailand."

He refused to reveal further details to keep the excitement alive but affirmed: “I have watched the opening ceremonies in many countries. I believe our opening ceremony is not inferior to anyone else,” he said.

Despite the series of incidents that have worried many fans, the host country Thailand has still shown its determination to overcome them and ensure the Games are held according to international standards. The opening ceremony is considered an important moment for the host country to regain confidence, before entering the busy official competition days.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/btc-sea-games-33-len-tieng-tran-an-sau-loat-su-co-khang-dinh-le-khai-mac-khong-thua-kem-ai-185251205162406881.htm