12/29/2025
Official Statement from Sabaidee Fest
We want to address a video that recently surfaced involving Big Yai, an artist who previously performed at our festival. We want to be absolutely clear: Sabaidee Fest does not condone racism, hate speech, or any calls for violence especially toward the Cambodian community or any community. We reject this behavior entirely and no longer associate him.
Our hearts are heavy as we witness violence once again at the border of Cambodia and Thailand, and now extending beyond the border into populated Cambodian cities and provinces where innocent civilians reside. For many in our community, this pain is deeply personal, reopening wounds that never fully healed.
It is important to remember and recognize history. Cambodia carries a legacy marked by unimaginable loss. During the Khmer Rouge genocide, nearly two million lives were taken. Families were torn apart. Culture, language, music, and knowledge were nearly erased. The echoes of that trauma continue to live on in survivors, in their children, and across generations of Cambodians around the world.
That is why this moment hurts deeply. When violence resurfaces, it is not only a present day tragedy - it is a reminder of a past that the Cambodian people fought so hard to survive and move beyond. No community should ever be forced to relive its darkest history.
Sabaidee Fest was created to uplift Southeast Asian communities through culture, music, and unity. While we have historically welcomed Southeast Asian artists based on creativity and talent, our platform will never support or excuse actions or beliefs rooted in hatred or violence. We are grounded in accountability and care for our people. We only support artists who align with our values and our mission. Any behavior that contradicts those values will not be tolerated.
We ask the Artists, fans and community not to respond with retaliation or violence—online or in person. We are allies across borders, cultures, and differences, even when political agendas attempt to divide us. Fighting one another is not the solution. Supporting innocent families impacted by conflict and holding leaders accountable to end the violence is where our collective energy should be directed.
We are more alike than we are different.
Our thoughts, prayers, and unwavering support are with Cambodia and Thailand. May we honor the lives lost by choosing love over hatred, unity over division, and humanity over violence. We pray for lasting and permanent peace.
