Cambodia Investment Review
As Cambodia revels in the successful hosting of the 32nd SEA Games and the 12th ASEAN Para Games for the first time in 2023, a visionary initiative, #BeyondTheGames, emerges, transcending the realm of sports. H.E. Sok Sabayna, in his keynote speech at the Leadership for Good Summit, articulated the profound impact and far-reaching objectives of this campaign, embodying the aspirations of a nation on the rise.
The flagship event hosted by Sequoia Group and Asian Vision Institute was attended by over 200 participants, themed “Imagine Cambodia – Co-creating a Shared Vision for 2050,” aimed to bring together stakeholders from the Public, Private, and People sectors to co-articulate collective aspirations for Cambodia and work towards achieving collective impact.
Cambodia’s journey to hosting these significant games is not merely a tale of organizing a sporting event. It’s a story of national resurgence, unity, and pride. The #BeyondTheGames campaign, launched by the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC) in collaboration with the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC), marks a pivotal moment in this narrative. “This is a historic milestone for Cambodia, a testament to our capabilities and the unwavering spirit of the Khmer people,” remarked H.E. Sok Sabayna during the summit.
#BeyondTheGames Vision: Uniting Hearts and Ambitions
The campaign, themed “Hearts Beat in Sync,” represents a unification of Cambodia’s aspirations and values. “Our goal is to leverage the global platform provided by the SEA Games to showcase our rich cultural heritage, peace-loving spirit, and the warm hospitality of the Khmer people,” said Sok Sabayna. The campaign aims to elevate Cambodia’s global stature, highlighting its cultural uniqueness and developmental strides.
Central to the #BeyondTheGames campaign is the focus on youth empowerment. The UYFC, known for its commitment to vocational training, healthcare education, and youth participation in development, sees this campaign as a catalyst for engaging young Cambodians in nation-building. “We are investing in our youth, for they are the architects of our future,” stated Sar Sokha, Secretary-General of MoEYS and President of FBPC, underscoring the alignment with national strategies focused on human capacity development.
H.E. Sok Sabayna emphasized the campaign’s role in promoting diversity and inclusivity, ensuring representation of all segments of Cambodian society. The initiative also aligns with the nation’s Pentagonal Strategy Phase I, focusing on nurturing human capital. “Through #BeyondTheGames, we aspire to inspire resilience, determination, and a sense of belonging among our youth, which are essential for our journey towards Vision 2050,” he articulated.
A Future Carved by Youth Leadership
The #BeyondTheGames campaign is not just about celebrating a historic event but about laying the groundwork for a vibrant future. “Our youth are not just participants; they are leaders who will drive Cambodia towards a dynamic and prosperous future. This campaign is a stepping stone towards realizing that potential,” remarked Sok Sabayna.
Read more: Opinion: SEA Games 2023 & Cambodia’s Resurgence on the Global Stage
The #BeyondTheGames campaign, as envisioned by H.E. Sok Sabayna, is a multifaceted initiative aimed at harnessing the power of a major sporting event to foster national pride, engage and empower youth, and position Cambodia prominently on the international stage. It is a testament to the nation’s commitment to its youth, culture, and future, embodying the spirit of unity, resilience, and aspiration that defines the modern Cambodian identity.
