With the 12th ASEAN Para Games fast approaching, Prime Minister Hun Sen advised the athletes who are due to compete in the biennial multi-sports event to respect their sporting ethics and remain disciplined, whether they win or lose.
He met with several athletes on May 26 at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh.
He said that as with the recently concluded 32nd SEA Games, the Para Games must be recorded for posterity.
“I suggest we make videos of each event, and edit them into a compilation. We should also engrave the proudest moments into the Win-Win Monument,” he said.
“Our ancestors engraved their achievements for the generations that followed, so we must do the same. This way, our descendants will be able to see what we have accomplished, and share our pride in this work,” he explained.
The premier said Cambodia had done an excellent job hosting the SEA Games, and dedicated the successes to all compatriots who provided support, although he noted that a small number of people appeared to have overlooked the Kingdom’s accomplishments.
“The majority of the people are proud of their nation. Even though certain opposition groups do not support the government, they acknowledge the nation’s achievements,” he said.
He also urged the athletes to strive to earn gold medals at the Para Games, as it is their first time to compete on home soil.
“With that in mind, I also remind them to remember to adhere to the highest standards of sportsmanship. We are the hosts, and we want to be remembered fondly by our guests,” he added.
He also congratulated previous medal winners and expressed hopes that those who have not yet tasted victory will try their utmost to win glory for the Kingdom.
“I have high hopes. We have sent many athletes abroad and won a lot of gold medals. The gold medallists should maintain their winning ways. Those who previously won silver or bronze should strive for gold. Those who have never claimed a medal should be training hard and aiming for a podium finish,” he said.
He noted that the government is funding the athlete’s training within the framework of Team Cambodia, the wider national team.
The 12th ASEAN Para Games are set to take place from June 3-9.
