Bangkok: A spokesperson for the Senate Tourism Committee has expressed concerns over Thailand’s preparations for the 33rd SEA Games, scheduled for December 9-20.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chamlong Anantasuk, Senator and spokesman for the Senate Committee on Tourism and Sports, highlighted several issues, including the lack of publicity and incomplete preparations with less than two months remaining. He emphasized that the stadium must be fully prepared to accommodate athletes arriving early for practice.
Mr. Chamlong also pointed out that the live broadcast arrangements are still pending due to budgetary delays and unresolved procurement and contracting procedures. He noted that while Chonburi and Songkhla provinces are actively preparing, Bangkok has yet to undergo landscaping to showcase its role as the host city. Additionally, the event’s logo has not been officially launched due to debates over its design, and the mascot’s use of national flag colors has sparked controversy.
The senator expressed his belief that using the national flag’s colors for the mascot is inappropriate, stating that no other country has done so. He urged responsible agencies to better publicize the event and finalize the logo and mascot to promote the SEA Games effectively. Mr. Chamlong concluded by hoping that the current government will ensure a successful event, boosting Thailand’s tourism industry in the long run.