Thailand approves budget to host SEA Games 33 and ASEAN Para Games 13

Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok will be the venue for the opening ceremony of the 33rd SEA Games. (Photo: MINH THANG)

Spokesperson of the Thai Prime Minister's Office Siripong Angkasakulkiat stated that the budget for the 33rd SEA Games and 13th ASEAN Para Games will be allocated specifically as follows: 166.28 million baht for the opening and closing ceremonies and torch relay; 30 million baht for public relations and television broadcasting; 259.68 million baht for accommodation, meals, travel and services for athletes and staff from participating countries.

The Thai government expects the two events to generate an estimated economic value of 5.286 billion baht, while also enhancing Thailand’s image as a leading sports and tourism nation in the region. The host country is targeting 252 gold medals at the 33rd SEA Games and 233 gold medals at the 13th ASEAN Para Games.

Also related to the issue of funding for organizing the 33rd SEA Games and the 13th ASEAN Para Games, the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) was assigned to seek sponsorship from the private sector to cover the arising costs.

Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (center) informs about preparations for the 33rd SEA Games and the 13th ASEAN Para Games. (Photo: XUAN SON)

Previously, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand Kongsak Yodmanee affirmed that preparations for the 33rd SEA Games and 13th ASEAN Para Games are being carried out in Thailand according to plan. The SAT Governor emphasized that Thailand will continue to affirm its capacity in organizing regional sporting events.

In early September, Thailand held the first video conference and press conference to introduce the 33rd SEA Games and 13th ASEAN Para Games, such as the organization, list of sports, schedule, competition and training venues, etc. Along with that, the conference informed about broadcasting-related content and the working process of reporters at sports events such as facilities, technical equipment, copyright, etc.

According to the plan, Thailand will host the 33rd SEA Games from December 9 to 20 in Bangkok, Chonburi and Songkhla. The 33rd SEA Games will include 54 sports, including football, badminton, archery, swimming, etc.

The 13th ASEAN Para Games is scheduled to take place from January 20 to 26, 2026 in Nakhon Ratchasima. The 13th ASEAN Para Games will feature 19 events such as cycling, wheelchair fencing, archery, etc.

According to the Spokesperson of the Thai Prime Minister's Office, the above allocation is part of the 720.31 million baht budget package approved by the Thai Government to support the tourism and sports industry.

In addition, the Thai cabinet recently approved a budget of 264.35 million baht to organize major marathon events called “Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok” for a period of three years (2025-2027). The majority of this budget will be used to pay for licensing and event organization fees, as well as taxes related to the marathon’s international hosting rights.

The marathon events are estimated to bring in about 3.297 billion baht in direct spending from Thai and international athletes, support teams and spectators, a spokesman for the Prime Minister's Office said.

Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat added that these events are expected to create about 21,000 jobs, contributing 4.377 billion baht to the economy within three years.

XUAN SON-MINH THANG

Nhan Dan Newspaper reporter based in Thailand

Source: https://nhandan.vn/thai-lan-phe-duyet-ngan-sach-dang-cai-sea-games-33-va-asean-para-games-13-post915495.html