BANGKOK: With water, light and technology, Thailand re-imagined how the SEA Games can be ignited, as the 33rd edition kicked off last night at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok.
A symbolic "stage of water", holding more than 800,000 litres of water transformed the stadium into a sea – the acronym for South-East Asia – befitting the theme, "We Are One – Connected by the SEA".
The stage of water was the centrepiece of a spectacular and sustainable ceremony that combined innovation, artistry and environmental consciousness.
Performances flowed seamlessly – from a drone countdown in the night sky to LED and projection mapping displays, martial arts showcases, underwater ballet, jetski and flyboard stunts, and electrifying music performances from Thai talents.
Each act celebrated creativity and athleticism while keeping sustainability at the core.
The torch relay began with the Deputy Governor of Bangkok Sanon Wangsrangboon presenting the flame and concluded with final torchbearer, two-time Olympic taekwondo champion, Panipak Wongpattanakit lighting the digital Grand Cauldron, which rose in a column of radiant energy.
Laser beams, projection mapping and drone choreography carried the flame across the stadium and expanded it into a symbol of unity for all 11 Asean nations.
The Thai King and Queen opened the Games to grand celebration.
Malaysia were represented by 59 national athletes from athletics, waterski and ice skating led by flag bearers triple jumper Andre Anura Anuar and waterski star Aaliyah Yoong Hanifah.
The contingent wore traditional-inspired costumes in white, red, blue and red, reflecting the national flag.
White symbolises purity of intention, discipline and focus, blue represents the flow of energy, mental and physical resilience, yellow signifies hope and national aspirations and red embodies courage and fighting spirit.
