SEAG organizer worries about ticket sales

SEAG organizer worries about ticket sales

KUALA LUMPUR (AP): With the 10-nation Southeast Asian Games less than two weeks away, organizers are reportedly having problems selling tickets to the various events including the opening and closing ceremonies.

The Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, Ong Tee Keat was quoted by the national news agency Bernama as saying that only 135,000 of the 600,000 have been sold so far.

He said that with the rather slow sale of tickets, efforts would be intensified to promote the Games especially at public places like supermarkets and shopping complexes.

"However bookings (for tickets) including from overseas are picking up ... we hope to reach the 600,000 mark," he said.

Ong urged all Malaysians from all walks of life to come out and give their full support for the Games, the first in its series in the new millennium

"As hosts we want the people to show their commitment to the event," he said.

The ten countries taking part are Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia, Brunei and Malaysia.

About 3,500 athletes are taking part in 32 events. Meanwhile, the yachting teams have begun to arrive in Malaysia to prepare for practice runs before the games begin on Sept. 8.

Teams from Singapore, Myanmar and Thailand taking part have already arrived for the 10-day event.

The assistant manager for the national yachting team, Lawrence Yeow, said the 20-member Singapore contingent, including officials and coach, had arrived here earlier this month.

"The Myanmar contingent, comprising 16 officials and yachtsmen, arrived last week while the 32-member contingent from Thailand have also arrived" he said.

The Indonesian contingent of more than 30 officials and yachtsmen were expected to arrive Monday.

A total of 115 yachtsmen and yatchtswomen from six countries - Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Myanmar and the Philippines - are expected to compete in the 13 yachting events.