BATTAMBANG: The 2023 SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games torch arrived in Battambang and was greeted by more than 5,000 government officials, athletes and sports fans on May 1, 2023.

Members of the public, including teachers, students, and members of the Armed Forces, lined the streets waving flags and waiting to welcome the procession with great enthusiasm.

Governor of Battambang Province, Sok Lou, expressed his happiness about and pride in the historic occasion and warmly welcomed the delegates of the SEA Games torch relay to Battambang with a smile.

The Secretary of State of the Ministry of Tourism said that the torch relay through ASEAN member countries sends a message of peace and stability in the region. He said it represents unity, solidarity, and mutual development; for without peace, there can be no progress or sporting events.

He added that Prime Minister Hun Sen made SEA Games history by hosting the event free of charge for attendees and athletes alike, showing the world that despite its small size, Cambodia has a big heart.

The torch relay in Battambang began at the intersection of Street 1 and Street 3 in Battambang city, where it continued on to Wat Po Veal in Romchek 5 village, to celebrate according to Buddhist tradition on the morning of May 2, 2023. The torch relay will continue from Battambang to Banteay Meanchey, Siem Reap, and Kampong Thom before finally arriving in Phnom Penh to inaugurate the games.