A rehearsal for the opening ceremony of the 31st SEA Games is held at My Dinh National Stadium, Hanoi, on the evening of May 10. Photo: VOV

Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam asked Games’ Opening and Closing Subcommittee to review all stages and procedures to be performed in the opening ceremony to ensure solemnity, brevity, compliance with common practice, and entertainment, spreading the message of SEA Games 31 "For a stronger Southeast Asia".

After a parade and a hoisting ceremony of the national flag of Vietnam and the flags of ASEAN and SEA Games, outstanding Vietnamese athletes will carry the torch and light the Games cauldron, followed by a three-chapter show.

The first chapter, themed “Friendly Vietnam” will feature the unique cultural identity of Vietnam as well as the hospitality and friendliness that the country offers to people from all countries in the region and the world.

The second chapter will highlight a “Strong Southeast Asia”, with the message that the strength of a connected ASEAN community will bring the bloc a strong position in the world.

The third and last chapter will have the theme of “Shining Southeast Asia,” reflecting the strength from the solidarity and friendship between Vietnam and other ASEAN member countries for a strong community and rising role of the association globally.