As the SEA Games volunteers collected their uniforms and accreditation passes starting from Friday, preparations for Asean's biennial sports meet entered its final phase as more than 17,000 volunteers prepare to make the event a resounding success.

More than 220 training sessions have been organised for them across all 29 areas of games operations since last September.

The volunteers, who form Team Nila, started collecting their uniforms and accreditation passes at the Formula One Pit Building on Friday and have until Monday to do so.

Those present on Saturday were greeted by Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Lawrence Wong, who was on hand to show his support.

Minister Wong handed out accreditation passes to some of those present, with Zaher bin Wahab, a doping control officer one of them.

"Being part of the Games is a huge thrill, and seeing everyone in Team NILA's purple, pumped up and ready to go is a clear sign that we're ready," Zaher said.

Singapore South-east Asian Games Organising Committee (Singsoc) chief of games and manpower engagement Muhammad Rostam Umar said that volunteer training will enter its final phase next week when volunteers will be at the various Games venues for familiarisation.

He also added that the 17,000-strong volunteer contingent will have free entry to support Team Singapore at all venues during their free time using their accreditation passes, subject to seat availability.