Sabida emphasized that restoration of border castles damaged from the Thai-Cambodian fighting is possible, awaiting the green light to conduct inspections. She affirmed that statements will be issued through all channels, noting Cambodia's use of the castles as military bases, which necessitates Thailand exercising its rights to self-defense and protecting its sovereignty. Protect Thailand's sovereignty.
On 17 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Ms. Sabida Thaiset, Minister of Culture, spoke about restoring historical sites damaged during clashes between Thai and Cambodian troops. She confirmed that Thailand did not initiate attacks but acted according to international principles of self-defense and national security.
Regarding the destruction of the historical sites, it is initially unclear whether damage occurred before the clashes. As everyone knows, Thailand recently regained control of these sites only a few days ago. Since these sites are now within Thailand's sovereignty, plans will be made to budget for restoration and repairs. She emphasized that Thailand did not use the historical sites as bunkers or for military purposes but intends to preserve them as genuine heritage sites requiring restoration.
As for the estimated restoration period, Ms. Sabida said the Fine Arts Department has yet to access the area, but the repair techniques are not complex. The department has sufficient capability to restore the sites and expects the process will not take long.
Reporters asked how safety will be ensured for officials inspecting the sites, given the presence of landmines in the vicinity. "We must wait for confirmation from security forces that we can enter to inspect and restore. It is essential that the area be cleared and peaceful before inspections can proceed," she said. Regarding whether restoration will use the original ruins or new materials, "There are new repair techniques available, but the appearance will remain the same. This has already been studied thoroughly. However, inspection will definitely precede any restoration work," Ms. Sabida stated. Ms. Sabida added.
Concerning Cambodia's military use of the castles as bases and their accusations that Cambodia destroyed the historical sites during clashes, Ms. Sabida said that Thailand must act according to international principles and consider all facts carefully. Currently, discussion seems focused on the aftermath, overlooking the root cause of the damage, which was Cambodia's military use of the sites, forcing Thailand to defend itself and protect its sovereignty.
Asked if Thailand would issue protests through all possible channels, Ms. Sabida confirmed that all forums would be used for responses, including the recent UNESCO platform, responding with reasoned statements.