Volunteers for the upcoming 32nd SEA Games and 12th ASEAN Para Games, which will be held in May and June respectively, attended an opening ceremony for the commencement of the volunteer training programme on March 25 at the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC).
Vath Chamroeun, secretary-general of both SEA Games and Para Games organising committees (CAMSOC-CAMAPGOC), said Cambodia needs about 7,000 volunteers to fill all of the required roles at the two biennial multi-sports events.
He said volunteers are as important blood vessels in the human body. He noted that the volunteer jobs on offer include very enjoyable duties such as welcoming the international sporting delegations to Cambodia.
“In sports, volunteers energise the entire games hosting process so that it all goes smoothly and successfully. The volunteers can add a touch of personal warmth to the experience for sports delegations and their person-to-person interactions will enable the games to run smoothly.
“All we request of our volunteers is that they work hard to serve the sports delegations they come into contact with and we will succeed as hosts of the very first and historic international sports event ever in Cambodia,” he said.
Chamroeun encouraged all volunteers working with Para Games athletes to be aware of their disabilities and any special needs they may have during their stay in the Kingdom. The Para Games will take place from June 3-9.
“Volunteers can take pride in their work because they are doing their patriotic duty in service to their nation. These events will be attended by nearly all of our 16 million Cambodians and particularly by His Majesty the King, in addition to the thousands of foreign visitors and athletes,” he said.
Sok Sabayna, chairman of CAMSOC-CAMAPGOC’s Volunteer Commission, said the SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games belong to every Cambodian and therefore need help from the entire nation.
“As hosts, we have to treat our guests perfectly. In case of any problems or shortcomings, whether it is due to a volunteer or whomever, we must all solve it together. Everyone must take ownership of this event as a Cambodian and give their warmest welcome to our guests,” he said.
