Hun Sen Clarifies SEA Games 2023 Issues, Rejects Misinterpretations and Defends Cambodia’s Dignity

Samdech Techo Hun Sen, former Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia

Phnom Penh, 6 December 2025 — Samdech Techo Hun Sen, former Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, issued a public clarification addressing misunderstandings arising from a video recently posted on his official Facebook page concerning the closing ceremony of the 32nd SEA Games 2023, hosted in Cambodia.

The statement, prompted by misinterpretations from some social media users in Thailand, firmly dismissed claims that the video was intended to disparage Thailand—host of the 2025 SEA Games. Samdech Techo stressed that he had no intention of comparing Cambodia with any other country, noting that every nation manages its affairs differently. He expressed regret that certain individuals had responded with derogatory remarks, belittling Cambodia and its people.

Of particular concern were comments alleging that Cambodia hosted the 2023 SEA Games “using Chinese money.” Samdech Techo Hun Sen described these claims as irresponsible and reflective of a mindset that seeks to demean others without regard for fact. He clarified that while China, through President Xi Jinping, generously supported the construction of the Morodok Techo National Stadium, Cambodia independently financed the overall hosting of the Games.

Samdech Techo extended his gratitude to China for its support in building a sports complex that will serve Cambodia for generations, but emphasized that the SEA Games’ operating expenses, competitions, and accommodations were funded through Cambodia’s own national budget, without any foreign financial contributions.

He elaborated on the long-term preparation process, explaining that Cambodia budgeted for the Games across five years (2018–2022), allocating approximately USD 10 million annually, with an additional USD 150 million programmed into the 2023 budget law—amounting to nearly USD 200 million. However, due to efficient financial management led by Samdech Tea Banh, Cambodia ultimately spent only USD 118 million, which covered all hosting costs, including accommodation and meals for foreign athletes. Cambodia’s initiative to waive all participation fees was, he noted, a deliberate act of solidarity to strengthen ASEAN unity.

Highlighting Cambodia’s prudent fiscal discipline, Samdech Techo recalled that under his leadership, the Royal Government maintained strong cash reserves—peaking at nearly USD 4 billion before the COVID-19 pandemic—thanks to the stewardship of successive “housekeepers,” former Deputy Prime Ministers Keat Chhon and Aun Pornmoniroth. This financial prudence allowed the country to safeguard public salaries and direct substantial resources toward pandemic response without compromising national stability.

Addressing additional misinformation, Samdech Techo recalled that many sports venues used in 2023—including the iconic Olympic Stadium—were Cambodian-built legacies, some dating back to the 1960s. He also reminded that Cambodia, as host, had intervened professionally to prevent conflict during a match in which Thailand lost to Indonesia.

He voiced disappointment that some Thai commentators had used the SEA Games issue to insult Cambodia, asserting that such remarks not only disrespect Cambodia but also “amount to an insult directed at China, a major global power.”

Samdech Techo concluded by urging restraint and mutual respect, expressing hope that Thailand will successfully host the 2025 SEA Games and effectively manage its current flood challenges. He reaffirmed his right to defend Cambodia’s dignity and to provide clear explanations to both Cambodian and Thai audiences when necessary.