ABA Bank and SEA Games 2023 heartfelt journey of unity with historic event
21/Nov/2023
In a historic moment that will resonate for generations, Cambodia, for the first time in 64 years, played host this year to the 32nd SEA Games and the 12th ASEAN Para Games. ABA Bank, as the Exclusive Bank Sponsor and Payment Service Provider, not only witnessed this milestone but played a pivotal role in ensuring its resounding success.
On 17 November 2023, the Morodok Techo Stadium reverberated with heartfelt acclaim as ABA Bank CEO Askhat Azhikhanov received Certificate of Appreciation from Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, honoring the nation's successful hosting of these historic events.
"The 32nd SEA Games and 12th ASEAN Para Games were a huge success for Cambodia. Even though the competition has ended, the success of this tournament will last forever for every Cambodian," remarked Prime Minister. The sentiment echoed the collective pride that swept across the nation, marking this event as not only a sporting triumph but a testament to Cambodia's capability and resilience.
ABA Bank committed itself wholeheartedly to the spirit of sportsmanship and unity among ASEAN nations. In early 2023, the bank inked a monumental sponsorship agreement with the Cambodia SEA Games Organizing Committee (CAMSOC) as the Exclusive Bank Sponsor and Exclusive Cashless Payment Sponsor of the Games.
ABA Bank pledged a generous $1,500,000 in cash and in-kind sponsorships, showcasing its unwavering dedication to supporting the Cambodian national team and facilitating marketing campaigns to spread the Games' spirit among its customers and general public.
Adding a touch of commemoration to the historic occasion, ABA released the SEA Games 2023 Limited Edition cards. These exclusive cards served as not just a means of payment but as a symbol of national pride and support for Cambodian athletes. ABA Bank ensured accessibility by allowing its mobile banking users to issue the special edition cards in less than two minutes with just a few taps on their smartphones. The Bank appreciates more than 100,000 valued customers who demonstrated unwavering love and support throughout the Games and issued the ABA SEA Games 2023 Special Edition plastic cards, contributing to the success and legacy of the event.
In a heartwarming initiative, ABA Bank also demonstrated its commitment to inclusivity by participating in the BeyondTheGames’ Folding Heart Campaign. The campaign aimed to raise funds for Cambodian para athletes and promote awareness of the historic SEA Games and Para Games 2023. As part of this initiative, people across Cambodia were invited to fold one million origami paper hearts, setting a new world record. ABA Bank contributed USD 30,000 to the project, while the bank staff also folded origami paper hearts to join thousands of other people in unity.
Through this journey, ABA became more than just a financial institution – it emerged as a cornerstone of the Games, extending its sincere gratitude to the Royal Government of Cambodia for entrusting the Bank with this monumental responsibility. ABA expressed profound gratitude to all the athletes who competed and, in doing so, gave every Cambodian a reason to swell with pride.
As the curtain falls on the 32nd SEA Games and 12th Para Games, ABA Bank stands tall, symbolizing pride, unity with the Cambodian people, and respect to the enduring spirit of sportsmanship.
