The theme of the Games is "Rising Together", signifying the coming of age for Southeast Asia as a community. The region has come a long way in making its mark on the global stage and this is a time for us to come together to write the next chapter in our collective journey of peace, progress, and prosperity.

Kuala Lumpur 2017 will be an important milestone in the ASEAN region as it will be the first SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games to be held after the formation of the ASEAN Community in 2015.

It will be a further proof that sports will not only play a big role in bringing all the citizens of Southeast Asia together in celebrating our achievements and commitment towards sportsmanship, but it will also uplift and inspire the entire region.