"Big Lek" urged the armed forces to fully support the frontline, affirming that food and weapons must remain ready for continuous combat. He also thanked Chulalongkorn University for granting special quotas to children of brave soldiers to pursue education.
On 18 Dec 2025 GMT+7, General Natthapon Nakpanich, Minister of Defense, announced the outcome of the Defense Council meeting. The council prioritized closely monitoring the welfare and morale of personnel serving along the Thai-Cambodian border. He instructed all military branches that logistics—including food, ammunition, and weapons—must be uninterrupted and fully prepared to ensure continuous and effective combat operations.
Regarding fallen personnel, the Defense Minister affirmed that families and heirs will be cared for to the highest standard. He pledged that if a funeral for personnel in the central region is held, he will personally attend as chairman to honor the deceased and their families. Additionally, a memorandum of understanding has been signed with Chulalongkorn University to develop knowledge for personnel at all levels, from privates to commanders, through diverse courses.
The Defense Minister also highlighted that Chulalongkorn University has generously provided special quotas for families and heirs of personnel who died serving at the Thai-Cambodian border, granting them access to education. He expressed deep gratitude to the university for recognizing this sacrifice.
Furthermore, for the upcoming New Year festival, he instructed the military to set up service units across various areas to assist the public, safeguard important sites, and secure countdown event venues. Coordination with all security agencies has been ordered, with increased vigilance to ensure the public can enjoy their holiday safely.