The aftermath of the recently concluded "SEA Games 2025," which ended less than a week ago, still leaves some things I want to write about.
Because from start to finish, there were only negative "drama" stories that never stopped.
Writing about them just dampened the mood and frustrated me, especially since we were hosting again after 18 years.
Instead of focusing on being the best host, the "political nonsense" ended up ruining this major ASEAN regional sporting event completely.
But since it's all over now, I’ll choose not to discuss it any further today.
Let’s instead talk about the positive aspects of the 33rd SEA Games to lift our spirits a bit.
With permission, I will reference the latest survey results from Thailand’s sole sports poll, KBU SPORT POLL.
This poll was conducted by the Human Capital Development Innovation Center at Kasem Bundit University (CIHCD KBU), directed by Professor Ratpong Boonyanuwat, whom I respect.
In collaboration with the Institute of Sports Management for Sports Organizations (WISDOM) and the page B Bangpakong - Bebangpakong on the topic "SEA Games 2025 Phenomenon."
The poll results from sports fans showed most were satisfied with the progress of Thailand’s national athletes, who emerged as the gold medal champions.
They won a total of 233 gold, 154 silver, and 112 bronze medals.
This reclaimed the SEA Games number one spot for Thailand after 10 years since the 2015 Games in Singapore.
It also impressively broke the previous record of 205 gold medals set by Vietnam in 2022.
The sports that impressed Thai fans the most were ranked: first, weightlifting with 88.60% approval.
Second was athletics with 85.20%, third sailing with 84.90%, fourth men’s and women’s volleyball at 82.00%.
Fifth was boxing at 80.10%, sixth taekwondo at 78.30%, and seventh badminton at 74.50%.
Eighth was ju-jitsu at 72.00%, ninth swimming at 68.70%, and tenth cycling at 66.00%.
As for moments that left a strong impression nationwide,
the top was Her Majesty the Queen winning the gold medal in the SSL 47 sailing category, with 34.00% of fans impressed.
Following that, 32.80% were impressed by Her Majesty leading the Thai national athletes’ parade at the opening ceremony, and 25.20% for other highlights.
These are the positive aspects from this SEA Games that help offset the disappointment caused by the poor organization throughout the tournament.
There is another matter I want to mention and sincerely praise.
It concerns the generosity of the 24 sponsor organizations, both domestic and international.
They kindly served as official sponsors for the 33rd SEA Games and the 13th ASEAN Para Games hosted in Thailand.
They united under the concept "TOGETHER WE RISE."
When we join forces, we can always achieve great success together.
These include Ajinomoto (Thailand) Co., Ltd., Daikin Industries Co., Ltd., TikTok (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Roojai Insurance Public Company Limited, Major Cineplex Group Public Company Limited, Central Pattana Public Company Limited,
the CP Group, CP All Public Company Limited, Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited,
True Money, Thai Namthip Corporation Public Company Limited, Thai Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., Krungthai Bank Public Company Limited,
TrueVisions Group Co., Ltd., and Thai Beverage Public Company Limited.
Especially the sponsors from Japan, who were very generous.
They fully supported our sports without any conditions or demanding issues.
For example, Ajinomoto alone contributed a hefty 40 million baht.
Along with Daikin Air and Yamaha, all deserve high praise.
Despite many flaws in our SEA Games organization affecting the image,
all sponsors knew well how they were treated and accommodated according to their rightful privileges.
Yet none complained or criticized publicly, avoiding further damage to the country’s reputation.
If I were the Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand or part of the organizing committee, after this event,
I would send a letter of gratitude to these sponsors because the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand would not have happened without these dependable private supporters.
Meanwhile, Thailand still has the responsibility to host the 13th ASEAN Para Games.
Scheduled from 20 to 26 January 2026 in Ya Mo City, Korat.
We should take all the mistakes made during the just-finished SEA Games,
learn from them to fix all minor issues and leaks,
and showcase our hosting capability to the ASEAN community with pride.
At least the very generous sponsors supporting us...
...will feel proud and happy!!!
B Bangpakong
joggingboy_be@yahoo.com