Stormy weather earlier in the day had threatened to spoil the spectacle, but the show was able to proceed as planned.

"Through the results and achievements of this historic event Cambodia has emerged on the international stage," South East Asian Games Organising Committee (CAMSOC) President and Deputy Prime Minister Teah Bahn said.

"The 32nd SEA Games although momentary, have created lasting and meaningful memories for all delegates, athletes and the Cambodian people in particular," declared Cambodian National Olympic Committee President Thong Khon.

"It has been an opportunity to exemplify excellence, friendship and solidarity, amongst the South East Asian sports family.

"You are all exceptional role models you have competed fairly and with respect for your South East Asian neighbours." 

Thong singled out the exploits of Cambodian distance runner Bou Samnang whose determination to complete the women's 5000m had caused a sensation on international social media.

"The Games have also provided a platform for the athletes to display every emotion and feeling from joy and elation to disappointment and tears," Thong continued.

"Bou Samnang showed resilience and Olympic spirit when she persevered to complete the 5000 metres in heavy rain."

As hosts, Cambodia won 282 medals of which 81 were gold, although Vietnam proved the most successful nation with 136 gold, 105 silver and 114 bronze.

Singaporean Swimmer Quah Ting Wen won six gold medals in the pool and was named one of the athletes of the Games.

It was an award her brother and sister had both won previously.

"I am thankful for the opportunity to have done well for Singapore and my sport, tt feels like a nice way to close the circle," Quah said. 

She had first competed at the SEA Games in 2005.

Cambodia’s Pal Choraksmey who won four golds, a silver and a bronze in Vovonam, was also presented with an award to reflect her achievements in a home Games.

The SEA Games flag with 11 interlocking gold rings on a blue background to reflect the participating nations was then ceremonially lowered.

It was entrusted to Thailand who are to host the 2025 Games in Bangkok, Chonburi and Songkhla.

In many ways it will be a return home, because Bangkok was the host city of the South East Asia Peninsula Games which inaugurated the series in 1959.

The night had included a farewell song "See You Again", punctuated by light shows and a stylised performance of the martial art Kun Bokator with lights projected above the arena.

Spectators were invited to join in with the final number "Cambodian Pride" as the mascots, a male rabbit named "Borey" and a female called "Rumduol" floated away into the night sky.

The next SEA Games in Thailand are set to open on December 7 2025.