The countries from the Southeast Asian region are holding talks to stage the bi-annual event once every three years.
There are problems in raising enough financing for the Games, as the same sponsors are being approached every two years, while economic problems in the region have also made it difficult. The Games also does not generate profits for the hosts.
This year, television networks in the Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia have also limited their telecasts of the Games due to financial problems.
Vietnam will host the 2003 Games, and this is likely to go ahead. If the member countries do decide to change the regularity of the event, they are expected to start after the 2003 Games.
The Southeast Asian Games, currently being hosted by Malaysia, is set to take place less frequently as organisers try and recapture its attraction to both the public and sponsors.
