SEA Games contingent reminded to stay healthy during haze, hot weather

KUALA LUMPUR – With the scorching heat over the Hari Raya Aidilfitri weekend, athletes heading for the 32nd SEA Games in Cambodia next month are reminded to take precautions and stay healthy. 

SEA Games chef de mission Datuk Mohd Nasir Ali advised the 914 athletes and officials headed to Phnom Penh from May 5 to 17 to be wary of the hot weather and haze. 

“The weather in Cambodia is currently very hot, averaging around 40°C.

“I want to remind our contingent to stay healthy and safe during this time as we will be heading to the games in a few days’ time,” he told The Vibes. 

The Health Ministry had recently advised the public to avoid direct exposure to the hot weather and haze, as well as strenuous activities to prevent illness during the current weather conditions. 

Nasir, who is also Olympic Council of Malaysia assistant treasurer, said the Cambodian capital is expected to be crowded as the country had announced that schools will be closed for the SEA Games. 

The Cambodian Education, Youth, and Sport Ministry had declared a 29-day public and private school break from April 20 to May 18 during the games period. 

“Cambodia has given a holiday for its schools and colleges due to the huge number of athletes and officials from 11 countries that will be there. 

“I’m sure that the venues will be packed as people will want to watch the athletes compete, and traffic conditions could also be affected due to the school holidays. 

“I am confident that the athletes will be well taken care of by their managers, team officials, and medical teams,” he said. 

Nasir added that preparations have been going well with the contingent geared up to depart soon, but they remain wary of last-minute issues.

Meanwhile, Nasir also wished the Malaysian athletes Selamat Hari Raya as many will be in the midst of their training during the festive period. – The Vibes, April 24, 2023