CURTAINS COME DOWN ON APG 2025, MALAYSIA SET FOR 2027 EDITION

From Farah Najihah Zuraimi

NAKHON RATCHASIMA, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- The ASEAN Para Games (APG) Thailand 2025, which returned to Nakhon Ratchasima after 18 years, officially drew to a close tonight in a ceremony rich in symbolism and appreciation, before the Games’ torch was handed over to Malaysia as host of the next edition in 2027.

The closing ceremony was attended by athletes and contingents from across Southeast Asia and was enlivened by musical performances by the host nation, reflecting appreciation for the struggle and resilience of para athletes throughout the Games.

The ceremony continued with the raising of the Thai national flag and an opening performance that enlivened the stadium atmosphere, while also recalling the history of APG being hosted here, with the last edition held in 2008.

The parade of national flags and athletes followed in the order of Brunei, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Timor-Leste, Vietnam and host Thailand, symbolising the spirit of unity and regional friendship that lies at the heart of the Games.

The event then featured a highlights video of the 13th APG, capturing various proud achievements of para athletes while underscoring the role of the Games in strengthening the development and inclusivity of para sports in the Southeast Asian region.

Speeches were delivered by the Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand, followed by the closing address by the President of the ASEAN Para Sports Federation (APSF) and the Chairman of the Organising Committee of the 13th APG.

The transition of hosting duties was then formalised through the Host Handover Ceremony from Thailand to Malaysia, including the raising of the Malaysian flag as the official signal marking the start of the journey towards APG 2027.

Malaysian Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari, in his speech, expressed appreciation to Thailand for what he described as an excellent and meaningful hosting, while also affirming Malaysia’s commitment to continuing the legacy of the prestigious Games.

The ceremony concluded with a special performance from Malaysia, followed by the athletes’ exit parade, before the curtain fell with a closing performance titled “E-SAN JOYFUL” accompanied by a fireworks display that lit up the stadium sky.

Malaysia ended its APG 2025 campaign with a haul of 64 gold, 64 silver and 73 bronze medals (201 medals) to finish third overall, improving on its fourth-place finish at the Cambodia 2023 edition.

— BERNAMA