Despite numerous challenges, Thailand - the host of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games - is set to deliver a groundbreaking and emotionally resonant opening ceremony tonight, December 9 at 7 PM, at Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok.

A highlight of the ceremony will be the appearance of 11 world-class Thai beauty queens, each leading one of the 11 Southeast Asian delegations in the traditional athlete parade. The most anticipated appearance will be that of Opal Suchata Chuangsri, Thailand’s first Miss World, who won the global crown in May 2025.

She will be joined by Chatnalin Chotjirawarachat, the second Thai winner of Miss Intercontinental (after First Wang in 2023), and other Thai pageant royalty: Anchilee Scott-Kemmis (Miss Universe Thailand 2021), Nicha Poolpoka (2nd runner-up, Miss Universe Thailand 2023), Channigan Supitayaporn (Miss Thailand 2023), Dinsosee Panida Khuenjinda (Miss Thailand 2024), Cat Atitiya Benjapak, Saffron Maya Snook (Miss Global Thailand 2026), and Vanessa Wenk (Miss Intercontinental Thailand 2025).

According to the official program, the opening will be presided over by King Maha Vajiralongkorn and the Queen of Thailand. It will begin with a video tribute to Queen Mother Sirikit, who recently passed away. The event will feature five main performances, each portraying a part of the SEA Games journey - from its roots and the spirit of competition to cultural solidarity and friendship, under the unifying slogan: “We are one.”

Following the formal proceedings, a festive showcase will feature top-tier Thai artists. Scheduled to perform are Thai-born K-pop star Bam Bam, rappers F.Hero and Tong Twopee, and Belgian-Thai singer Violette Wautier.

Adding to the excitement will be a performance by Muay Thai legend Buakaw Banchamek, whose presence is expected to electrify the audience. The identity of the final torchbearer for the SEA Games flame remains a closely guarded secret, with organizers promising a major surprise.

High expectations for a groundbreaking night

Minister of Tourism and Sports Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn assured that the ceremony, despite obstacles, will exceed expectations and showcase Thai creativity at the highest level.

“Our opening ceremony combines modern technology with the essence of Thai culture. There will be five or six unique segments, including performances never seen before, involving both local and international artists,” the Minister said.

He also emphasized the environmental message: “We’ve prioritized reducing pollution in line with the Net Zero theme of this green SEA Games.”

“This is our opportunity to express Thai identity through performance art, music, orchestral arrangements, T-POP, visual scenes, and innovative staging. The technology used for this show is state-of-the-art, and we’re confident it will create lasting excitement for viewers.”

Thailand aims to establish a “new standard,” he added. “We believe it will be both modern and world-class while preserving our cultural roots and beauty.”

The Vietnamese sports delegation is expected to participate in tonight’s parade with around 200 members. The flag bearers will be athletes Le Thanh Thuy and Le Minh Thuan.

Vietnam is sending a total of 1,165 participants to SEA Games 33, including 842 athletes, 189 coaches, and 19 specialists, competing in 47 out of 66 sports, across 443 of 573 events. Their medal goal ranges between 90 to 110 gold medals.

Dai Nam