PHNOM PENH: Prime Minister Hun Sen has instructed football fans to maintain order and not to jump over the National Olympic Stadium fence to watch the football match between Cambodia and Timor-Leste on 29 April 2023. He said that those without a ticket should watch the live broadcast on big screens at designated locations throughout Phnom Penh and the provinces.

In a voice message on his official Telegram Thursday morning, he stated, "I urge you not to disrespect public order in any way."

The PM warned against rushing to watch football matches to avoid a potentially fatal stampede. He also advised people to maintain their dignity by not insulting any football team directly or on social media. He expressed that whether Cambodia wins or loses, people need to behave properly.

He said, "I stand in solidarity with athletes from other countries; whether they win or lose, we as the host country have a responsibility to be fair to our guests. This is a big deal for the honor and dignity of the nation.”

With only eight days left before the games begin, the SEA Games torch returns to Cambodia tomorrow, 28 April, where it will arrive from Laos to the Stung Treng province. On Saturday, 29 April, the torch will pass through the provinces bordering the Tonle Sap Lake and will then continue on towards Phnom Penh to make it to the Morodok Techo National Stadium in time for the opening ceremony of the SEA Games on 5 May.