The ceremony featured colorful artistic performances, parades of national delegations, and the official handover of the SEA Games flag to Malaysia, which will host the 34th edition in 2027.

Brilliant fireworks lit up the night sky, capping off 11 intense days of official competition. Athletes from across Southeast Asia gathered on the pitch to take photos and share final moments together, preserving their memories of the Games.

A celebration of champions and unity

The artistic program was divided into several segments, with standout performances titled “Echoes of the Whistle” and “The Sound of Champions,” showcasing Thai singers Daou Pittaya and Kratae R-Siam.

These segments combined live music with stunning laser projections, visually recreating scenes from the sporting competitions.

As the festivities continued, national delegations paraded around the stadium. Vietnam’s delegation made a brief appearance with fewer athletes, as many had already returned home.

Official handover to Malaysia

The ceremony also included the solemn lowering of Thailand’s national flag, followed by the symbolic handover of the SEA Games flag to Malaysian officials  -  confirming Malaysia as the host of SEA Games 34 in 2027.

This year’s Games concluded with Thailand topping the medal table with 233 gold medals, followed by Indonesia with 91, and Vietnam in third with 87 golds.

Triumphs and takeaways from SEA Games 33

Despite some ongoing concerns over event organization and refereeing, SEA Games 33 ultimately stood out for the spirit of unity, passion, and sportsmanship that defines Southeast Asian athletics.

Vietnam’s final gold medal  -  won in the mixed-gender open water relay (4x1500m)  -  sealed a strong finish and helped the delegation edge out Singapore and other competitors in key events.

Song Ngu (from Bangkok, Thailand)