Vijian Paramasivam
Cambodia is basking in the glow of triumph following the extraordinary achievements of its para-athletes at the recently concluded 2023 ASEAN Para Games. The athletes, undeterred by their physical disabilities, defied the odds to bring glory to their nation, opening up an essential discourse on the broader significance of inclusivity in society and the economy.
A commemoration ceremony hosted by the Cambodian Wheelchair Basketball Federation brought into focus the sterling performance of these athletes. The women’s team bagged the gold medal in the 3X3 category and a silver medal in the 5X5 event, making history in the games held in Phnom Penh.
These victories hold economic implications
Team leader An Sinet, during her address at the event, emphasized that physical disability was not a roadblock to achieving sporting glory. “The relentless support we received from our community, family, and friends has been instrumental in inspiring us to reach these heights,” she said.
At the same event, held at the National Centre of Disabled Persons in Khan Sen Sok, the men’s team was also given due recognition. Cambodia’s victory in the women’s wheelchair basketball event against Thailand marked another significant milestone in the nation’s sporting achievements. By the end of the games, Cambodian para-athletes had earned a total of 71 medals – nine gold, 18 silver, and 44 bronze – securing the eighth position among the eleven nations participating in the biennial games.
Her Highness Princess Sisowath Kanthireth, the Honoury president of the Cambodian Wheelchair Basketball Federation, and Senior Minister Ly Thuch, the Federation’s President, lauded the team’s success, achieved despite limited resources and financial constraints.
These victories hold economic implications that go beyond the realm of sports. They underline the untapped potential of persons with disabilities in driving Cambodia’s economic growth, provided they are given equal opportunities and the necessary resources. The landmark achievements of these athletes spotlight the need for a more inclusive society, especially in terms of economic participation, to ensure a brighter and more prosperous future for all Cambodian citizens.
Acknowledging and utilizing the potential of all citizens
An inclusive economy, which acknowledges and utilizes the potential of all citizens, is key to sustainable development. The ASEAN Para Games provide a testament to the contribution that disabled individuals can make when given the right opportunities and resources. The para-athletes’ determination and commitment can inspire other sectors of society and the economy to foster an environment of inclusivity, promoting diverse talent, and providing equal opportunities for all.
Read more: Cambodia’s Wheelchair Basketball Squads for 12th ASEAN Para Games 2023 Take Centre Stage
Increased visibility and participation of disabled individuals in high-profile events such as these can stimulate cultural shifts toward more inclusive practices in workplaces, schools, and public spaces. As more individuals with disabilities are included in various sectors of the economy, they can contribute their unique skills and perspectives, leading to a more dynamic and resilient economic landscape.
Cambodia’s achievements in the ASEAN Para Games highlight the importance of an inclusive society that respects diversity and recognizes the potential in every citizen. Under the leadership of Senior Minister Ly Thuch and Her Highness Princess Sisowath Kanthireth, with contributions from the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Prince Foundation led by philanthropist Neak Oknha Chen Zhi, Cambodia continues to make strides in promoting inclusivity in sports and the wider socio-economic arena.
