Border villagers near Chong Chom oppose Japan's suggestion to open the checkpoint. "Thailand-Cambodia" They express resignation and believe a third round of clashes is inevitable.
On 4 Feb 2026 GMT+7, reporters noted that Japanese government demands for Thailand and Cambodia to promptly reopen their border checkpoint have arisen after its closure severely impacted several Japanese companies.
Field visits to villages and border communities, especially the Chong Chom border market area, Dan Subdistrict, Kap Choeng District, Surin Province, were conducted to gather opinions on the issue due to the proximity of the permanent Chong Chom border crossing point.
Mrs. Wilaiphon Suwanhong, a resident of Kap Choeng District, Surin Province, said, "What does Japan have to do with us? Their issues don't affect us, so why get involved? It's best for each to stay separate. There's no need to open the checkpoint; this concerns only Thailand and Cambodia, not Japan. Border villagers don't want it opened because Cambodia keeps provoking us. They are heavily armed and won't back down; we shouldn't consider them relatives at all. Cambodia incites trouble daily and clearly wants to start another war, or else why provoke? I believe a third round of fighting is certain. We've already packed our clothes and belongings and have never taken them out of the sacks. We used the compensation money to buy food and pay debts from when we evacuated, and we are saving some for future evacuations. With elections approaching, confidence is low; I firmly believe conflict will happen. Everyone in the community is mentally preparing."