Cambodia Withdraws from 13th ASEAN Para Games Amid Diplomatic Tensions

Cambodia has officially withdrawn from the 13th ASEAN Para Games scheduled to take place from January 20 to 26 in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, disrupting plans for the regional multi-sport event. In a letter dated January 8, the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Cambodia informed the ASEAN Para Sports Federation (APSF) of its decision to abstain from this year's Games due to unforeseen circumstances. The letter, signed by NPC Cambodia secretary-general Yi Veasna and addressed to APSF president Maj. Gen. Osoth Bhavilai, confirmed that no Cambodian athletes or officials would participate.

The APSF acknowledged the notification and expressed regret over Cambodia's absence but affirmed respect for the decision. Maj. Gen. Bhavilai stated, "While we regret Cambodia’s absence from the 13th ASEAN Para Games, APSF fully respects the decision conveyed by NPC Cambodia under its prevailing circumstances."

Cambodia's withdrawal comes amid ongoing diplomatic tensions with the host nation, Thailand. Notably, the country also pulled out of last month's Southeast Asian Games, raising concerns about the broader impact of political issues on regional sporting events.

Despite this setback, APSF emphasized Cambodia's continued importance within the ASEAN Para sports community, recalling its role as host of the 12th ASEAN Para Games in Phnom Penh in 2023. Bhavilai remarked, "Cambodia remains a valued member of the ASEAN Para sports family, and its contributions to the movement will always be recognized."

Prior to the withdrawal, Cambodia had planned to send a delegation consisting of 103 athletes competing across 12 sports, supported by 41 officials. APSF also conveyed NPC Cambodia's gratitude to organizers, including the APSF, the National Paralympic Committee of Thailand, and the Thailand ASEAN Para Games Organizing Committee for their preparation efforts.

Organizers have reported that the event preparations in Nakhon Ratchasima—also known as Korat—are nearing completion. The city is hosting the ASEAN Para Games for the second time since 2008 and will feature competitions in 19 sports across various venues.

Meanwhile, the Philippines is set to participate with a 216-member athlete delegation in 16 sports, excluding blind football, wheelchair tennis, and wheelchair shooting. Veteran wheelchair racer Jerrold Pete Mangliwan, a three-time Paralympian with appearances in Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024, will serve as the Philippine flagbearer during the opening ceremony.

As the Games approach, organizers are committed to ensuring an inclusive and smoothly run event despite the notable absence of Cambodia, signaling continued regional support for para-athletes and sportsmanship.