“Big Dul” vows never to reopen the border checkpoint until Cambodia complies with the joint statement, highlighting urgent policies to accelerate development of water, electricity, roads, and phone signals for troops along the border.
At 09:37 on 24 April 2026 at the Ministry of Defense, following the 139th anniversary celebration of the ministry and his inauguration as Minister of Defense, Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen told the media that he is deeply honored by the royal decree appointing him to this critical position for national security. He affirmed his commitment to perform his duties honestly for the benefit of the military, the institution, and the people.
He explained that the ministry's policy was already presented on 9-10 April, focusing on enhancing military readiness and protecting sovereignty against all threats. He emphasized the importance of volunteer soldiers, noting that willingness leads to effective work. He personally views voluntary enlistment as an opportunity to join the military community, not a crisis.
He elaborated that this opportunity allows individuals to strengthen their physical and mental resilience, maintain good health, and cultivate patriotism, religion, and loyalty to the monarchy. It also opens educational paths; for example, after completing high school, volunteers can enter military camps and pursue further studies at the Army Non-Commissioned Officer School. The armed forces promote open policies and are advancing domestic industries to reduce sole dependence on foreign imports such as oil, which clearly impacts the entire country during conflicts—highlighting the need for such development.
When asked about urgent policies to be implemented soon, Lieutenant General Adul said improving the quality of life for soldiers along the border is paramount. Having lived on the border himself, he prioritizes welfare for soldiers' families who have lost loved ones and has frequently visited border areas. He plans to advance water supply, electricity, roads, and phone signals—essential needs for border troops that require substantial quality-of-life improvements.
He added that since childhood, he has envisioned "flowing water, bright electricity, good roads, and phone signals". Progress has been made in these areas. For soldiers who have died, medical care rights for their parents, previously reimbursed through the Comptroller General's Department, have now been approved by the Cabinet and will be implemented soon, maintaining existing rights.
Asked about policies regarding the Thai-Cambodian border given recent Cambodian troop incursions, Lieutenant General Adul said the joint statement governs this issue. He vowed, “I will never open the checkpoint” until all agreed procedures are followed because Thailand’s sovereignty has been firmly protected. He reiterated that government policy clearly states the checkpoint will remain closed until Cambodia complies with the joint statement.
Regarding the upcoming Regional Border Committee (RBC) meeting, Lieutenant General Adul said it is a military matter handled by the regional army and the Army Commander, who have already issued orders. He believes conditions will improve thereafter.
Lieutenant General Adul also mentioned that regarding the Navy’s cancellation of the 2001 MOU on area management, this too follows the same rules—compliance with the existing joint statement.