Kristy Tel, deputy head of the Singaporean military volleyball delegation, was among those enjoying the performances. As “We Are Singapore” played, she joined the rhythm and applauded enthusiastically. Speaking with reporters of the People’s Army Newspaper, she said the opening ceremony successfully highlighted the cultural identities of the participating nations.
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An artistic performance at the opening ceremony |
“I especially enjoyed “We Are Singapore” because of its lively spirit,” she said. “It showed how thoughtful the Vietnamese hosts were and the effort they made to learn about the cultures of the countries taking part in the tournament.”
Tel noted that “We Are Singapore” is a classic patriotic song and the official theme song of Singapore’s National Day Parade 1987. Celebrating unity, patriotism, and the shared identity of the Singaporean people, the song is widely known and sung with pride. Hearing it performed in Viet Nam during a volleyball tournament centered on unity made the experience even more meaningful.
A major highlight of the opening ceremony was the artistic program representing the cultural identities of the participating countries. Singapore was represented by “We Are Singapore,” Laos by “Sieng Khaen Lao,” Cambodia by the well-known folk song “Arapiya,” and Viet Nam by the northern folk song “Cay da quan doc.”
Rather than being performed separately, the cultural performances were brought together in a unified program. As each representative performance began, the national flag of the respective country was brought to center court, accompanied by its characteristic music and dance, while the other performers joined in. The program reflected ASEAN solidarity under the motto, “One Vision, One Identity, One Community.”
The performance of Sieng Khaen Lao particularly moved Khonesevanh Keokhamphone, head of the Lao military volleyball delegation. With tears in his eyes, he said, “You sang very well, just like Lao people do. This is a distinctive opening ceremony where the spirit of unity blends with cultural identity.”
Held from August 18 to 28 under the spirit of “Sport for solidarity, honesty and sportsmanship,” the ASEAN Armies' Open Volleyball Tournament 2026 brings together not only determination, fair play, and exciting volleyball action, but also opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
During the event, participants also visit the Viet Nam Military History Museum and the Trang An World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site, and take part in activities, such as “Cultural Day.” Lieutenant General Nguyen Ba Luc, Deputy Chief of the General Staff and head of the organizing committee, said the tournament is “a beautiful expression of military sports culture and a symbol of friendship, cooperation for development.”
Translated by Tran Hoai