What do Thai people expect from SEA Games 33?

On the morning of December 5, walking around Chonburi - one of the main competition venues of the 33rd SEA Games, it is not difficult to see the excitement and anticipation of the people of the host country, Thailand.

Ms. Puri Mai said the atmosphere of SEA Games 33 is still gloomy due to many sad news in Thailand recently - Photo: NAM TRAN

Different from the usual excitement seen in international media, the atmosphere of the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand in the first days was somewhat quieter than expected.

The atmosphere was quite gloomy.

Speaking with Tuoi Tre Online , Ms. Puri Mai (a resident of Chonburi) said that people's attention has recently been distracted by news about natural disasters.

"The atmosphere of the SEA Games in Thailand this time is actually quite quiet. The reason is that there has been too much bad news recently, especially the news about the flood situation that just ended. Therefore, most people still do not have a clear understanding of the specific information," said Ms. Puri Mai.

“People only started to know and feel excited yesterday, when the news about the floodwaters had subsided,” she added.

Expected economic "boost" for Chonburi

Although information arrived late due to the impact of natural disasters, the expectations of local people for this sports event are very high. The economy of Chonburi in particular and neighboring areas in general has gone through a rather gloomy period.

"I think this event will help stimulate Chonburi's economy. Hopefully it will be better, because business here has been very quiet for a while," Puri Mai expressed her confidence when she saw international tourists starting to arrive.

Mr. Sreang Phai warmly welcomed the group of Vietnamese reporters - Photo: NAM TRAN

Putting aside economic worries, the Thai people’s inherent spirit of sportsmanship and hospitality is still evident. Sreang Phai, a cheerful vendor here, could not hide his enthusiasm when seeing Vietnamese reporters working.

He sent a warm welcome to tourists and sports fans across Southeast Asia: "I hope everyone will enjoy and admire the SEA Games competitions taking place in Chonburi. Welcome everyone to Thailand."

As a sports fan, Mr. Phai also did not forget to send his support to the national team: "I want to send my love and support to the Thai volleyball team."

The 33rd SEA Games in Thailand may have started in a context where people were struggling to cope with natural disasters, but it was in the midst of difficulties that expectations for a successful Games became even stronger.

Back to topic

THANH DINH

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/nguoi-dan-thai-lan-ky-vong-gi-ve-sea-games-33-20251205134453032.htm