SEA GAMES 2025: PREPARATIONS ON TRACK, SAYS SAT, AS THAILAND TARGETS 241 GOLDS

BANGKOK, Nov 18 (Bernama) -- Host nation Thailand has set a target of 241 gold medals for the 33rd SEA Games next month, as preparations for the biennial sporting event remain on track despite some hiccups, according to Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT).

SAT Governor Gongsak Yodmani said the agency had met with all 50 national sports associations, each of which presented its medal projections.

“Collectively, they have set a target of 241 gold medals, reflecting their strong determination to deliver outstanding performances and enhance the capabilities of Thai athletes on the regional stage,” he told reporters during a press conference at the Rajamangala National Stadium here, Tuesday.

SAT is the national sports governing body for Thailand, operating as a state enterprise under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

On preparations for the games, Gongsak said there is progress, although there have been some delays stemming from budget allocation issues.

“Many projects required new funding, which was only approved in October, resulting in certain tasks having to be expedited during the final stages of preparation,” he said.

Nevertheless, the SAT remains confident that all preparations will be completed as planned.

“Thailand will be fully ready to host the 33rd SEA Games with honour and in accordance with international standards,” Gongsak said, adding that preparations are also under way to ensure the broadcast of the games would reach Thai audiences as widely as possible.

The 2025 SEA Games will take place from Dec 9 to 20, with events to be held across Bangkok, Chonburi, and Songkhla.

Malaysia is sending a contingent of 1,688 members including 1,166 athletes – the largest ever participation in the nation’s history of the event.

-- BERNAMA