PHNOM PENH: The 2023 SEA Games torch relay returned to Cambodia on Thursday, 27 April 2023, after a successful tour across nine southeast asian countries.

The torch relay procession in Laos made its way to the Trapeang Kriel-Nong Nok Khean International Border Crossing in Stung Treng province, led by the Special Envoy of the Ministry of Tourism, Hor Sarun, the Cambodian Ambassador to Laos, Thong Sokuntheary, senior officials of the Lao National Olympic Committee, and five Lao athletes.

Upon re-entering Cambodia, the torch relay processesion was welcomed by the Minister of Public Works and Transport and Vice Chairman of the Cambodia SEA Games Organizing Committee (CAMSOC), Senior Minister Sun Chanthol, the leadership of the provincial administration and thousands of citizens in Stung Treng province.

The torch relay moved towards Stung Treng Provincial Town, from the Trapeang Kriel International Border Gate, along National Road No. 7 (Asian Highway 11), Pheadong Kralor, Village No. 8 and up to the base of Sekong Bridge.

Afterwards, CAMSOC Representative, Ny Phally, handed the torch over to Senior Minister Sun Chanthol, who led the relay procession along the river from the base of Sekong Bridge to the Mekong Bridge. The procession was accompanied by Ny Phally, athletes from Stung Treng as well as athletes from the National Swimming Federation, who continued on towards the podium in front of Stung Treng Provincial Hall.

From there, the torch was handed over to Stung Treng Provincial Governor, Svay Sam Eang, to kick off the relay in Stung Treng City. The torch was then brought to Wat Srah Keo Monivann (Wat Leu) where a religious ceremony was performed for the protection of the SEA Games torch, and fireworks were set off to celebrate the successful event.