SIEM REAP: King Norodom Sihamoni lit a torch to kick off the 32nd Southeast Asian Games and the 12th ASEAN Para Games at Angkor Wat temple.

A spring equinox event was held at Angkor Wat on the morning of 21 March 2023, at which the King held a torch lighting ceremony for the SEA Games.

The torch is a symbol of peace and symbolizes the power of sacred objects that preserve Cambodia overall. The flame is considered a blessing for the two sporting events being held in Phnom Penh later this year.

The torch, lit in harmony with the rising sun at Angkor Wat, will be kept in a special lamp and carried to other countries in Southeast Asia, inspiring support and enthusiasm for Cambodia's hosting of the 2023 SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games.