The 13th ASEAN Para Games concluded with dignity and left a strong impression, as the Thai para team dominated the gold medal standings.
Mr. Attakorn Sirilakthyagorn, Minister of Tourism and Sports, presided over the closing ceremony of the 13th ASEAN Para Games. The event was attended by Dr. Kongsak Yodmanee, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), the organizing committee, executives from the ASEAN Para Sports Federation, athletes, officials, media representatives, and the public at the 80th Birthday Anniversary Stadium in Nakhon Ratchasima on 26 January 2026.
The closing ceremony officially began at 6:00 p.m. with a tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, expressing deep gratitude for her royal benevolence. This was followed by the raising of the Thai national flag amidst an atmosphere of pride, alongside a parade of national flags and athletes from the 10 ASEAN member countries. Then, Mr. Attakorn Sirilakthyagorn, Minister of Tourism and Sports and chairman of the organizing committee, formally declared the competition closed.
“On behalf of the Thai government, it is a great honor to host the 13th ASEAN Para Games, a significant platform showcasing the strength, determination, and outstanding potential of para athletes from ASEAN countries. This event is not only a regional sports competition but also a symbol of cooperation, friendship, and mutual support within the ASEAN community. It highlights the power of sport to connect people, especially in promoting equality and coexistence amid diversity. On behalf of the government, I congratulate all athletes from every nation who triumphed in this competition and commend the organizing committee and all involved parties, especially Nakhon Ratchasima province and its people, who demonstrated excellent hosting and united in making this event a successful and memorable experience for all member nations. I sincerely thank everyone involved.”
Next, a video montage summarized the memorable moments throughout the competition, followed by the extinguishing of the flame, symbolizing the official conclusion of the Games. This was succeeded by the lowering of the ASEAN Para Sports Federation and event flags from the flagpole, the handover ceremony to the next host, and the raising of the Malaysian national flag. Malaysia then presented a performance titled "SUARA JIWA: VOICE OF THE SOUL," reflecting the identity, creative energy, and readiness of the next host in an impressive manner.
The ceremony concluded with the "Isan Muan" performance by the Mor Lam troupe "Prathom Bantheng Sin," conveying pride, spirit, and unity born from the competition through artistic expressions embodying the athletes' spirit. This performance inspired all hearts toward future endeavors, marking a complete, dignified, and memorable closing of the 13th ASEAN Para Games hosted by Thailand.
The 13th ASEAN Para Games, hosted by Thailand from 20 to 26 January 2026 in Nakhon Ratchasima province, saw the Thai para athletes deliver an outstanding performance by topping the gold medal tally with 175 gold, 155 silver, and 158 bronze medals, totaling 488 medals. This achievement is a source of pride for Thai sports fans and reflects the strength and capability of Thai para athletes on the ASEAN regional stage.
