Nakhon pathom: Thammanat and Attakon energized the 2025 SEA Games by inspecting the readiness of the sepak takraw arena in Nakhon Pathom Province, emphasizing that all seats will be free to watch, and expressed confidence that the Thai team will win all 11 gold medals, bringing joy to Thai people nationwide.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister Thammanat Prompao, overseeing the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, along with Minister of Tourism and Sports Atthakorn Sirilathayakorn, inspected the readiness of the Nakhon Pathom Municipality Sports Center in Huai Chorakhe Subdistrict, Mueang Nakhon Pathom District, which will serve as the venue for the sepak takraw competition at the 33rd SEA Games, scheduled for December 9-20. The 4,000-seat gymnasium will serve as a key venue for the Thai national team's 11 gold medals.
Lt. Col. Thammanat stated that the people of Nakhon Pathom are eagerly anticipating this hosting opportunity. He confirmed that the Sepak Takraw competition will be free to the public, allowing Thais to fully participate in cheering on the athletes. He added that if Nakhon Pathom Province needs additional support in any way, they can immediately submit proposals. The sports fund accounts for billions of baht annually, and if it can help the province, he is prepared to provide full support.
Lt. Col. Thammanat also offered encouragement to the Thai national sepak takraw team and expressed his confidence that the Thai sepak takraw team will be successful in the competition and win several gold medals.
Mr. Atthakorn stated that he had discussed with the Sports Authority of Thailand several times regarding the sepak takraw competition at the 33rd SEA Games, with the possibility of hosting either Rangsit or Nakhon Pathom. Upon questioning the president of the Nakhon Pathom Provincial Sports Association, he confirmed that the sepak takraw competition was 100% ready. Rangsit already hosts several other sports events, and with the venues ready, and the association's shared understanding, it was decided that the sepak takraw competition for this SEA Games would be held in Nakhon Pathom Province.
Mr. Atthakorn also stated that Thailand has not hosted the SEA Games in 18 years, making this event particularly meaningful and requiring cooperation from all parties, particularly the people of Nakhon Pathom, who will be a face for the country. He urged everyone to work together to show the world that Thais are ready for the competition and welcomed as hosts.
"11 gold medals, there's no pressure. I'm really hoping for all 11 medals because we have the potential, and this is the hope of all Thai people," said Mr. Atthakorn.
After the field inspection, Lt. Col. Thammanat led the group in a friendly greeting, discussing training, and taking photos with the team's executives and athletes. The atmosphere was lively.