Nakhon ratchasima: The 13th ASEAN Para Games Thailand 2025 was officially closed after a vibrant ceremony filled with music, color, and celebration at the 80th Birthday Anniversary Stadium in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) Monday night. Thailand topped the medal tally board with 175 gold, 155 silver, and 158 bronze medals.
According to Philippines News Agency, Indonesia placed second with 135 gold, 144 silver, and 114 bronze medals, while Malaysia was third with 64 gold medals, an improved showing that underlined its growing stature ahead of hosting the next Games. As fireworks lit up the Korat skyline, athletes and officials reflected on Games that delivered high-quality competition and rising regional depth.
In total, 1,473 medals were awarded across 19 sports, with para athletics and swimming once again forming the backbone of medal success for leading nations. The closing ceremony also featured the symbolic handover to Malaysia, which will host the 14th ASEAN Para Games in October 2027, with 18 sports expected to be contested.
As the ASEAN Para Games flag was lowered in Nakhon Ratchasima and raised for the next host nation, the focus shifted from celebration to preparation and the next chapter in the region's para sports journey. It was also the first time since 2015 that Thailand was back as the overall champion. Indonesia won in 2017, 2022, and 2023.
Thai Minister of Tourism and Sports Attakorn Sirilatthayakorn declared the Games closed, followed by the customary handing over of the Games flag to the next host. Malaysian Minister of Sports Malaysia Dr. Mohammad Taufiq Johari received the flag from ASEAN Para Sports Federation (APSF) President Maj. Gen Osoth Bhavilai, signaling the formal acceptance as host of the 14th ASEAN Para Games.
Minister Attakorn, in his speech, thanked all 11 contingents for their participation in the Korat Games, proof of the strong bond and solidarity amongst ASEAN member nations. 'Congratulations Thailand! For the past week, we have witnessed an exciting show of courage and great determination. To athletes, you are all winners!' Bhavilai said in a news release Tuesday. He praised Thailand and Nakhon Ratchasima for the successful hosting and achieving a seventh overall crown.
