BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Government Spokesperson Anukool Pruksanusak has urged the public not to believe or share false reports claiming the Fine Arts Department approved the demolition of temples for military purposes. The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES) identified this as the most widely circulated fake news item of the week.
Anukool said another fabricated story gaining attention alleged that Cambodian spies were caught infiltrating Pong Nam Ron beach in Chanthaburi province with drones and electronic equipment to target Wing 5. He warned that spreading unverified information can create public anxiety, confusion, and harm Thailand’s international reputation.
The Fine Arts Department has confirmed it has never authorized or considered destroying historic sites for military use. Anukool stressed that the notion that ancient monuments can be demolished simply because they can be restored is without basis.
According to the department, such monuments are part of both national and global cultural heritage, and restoration cannot replace their original historical, artistic, and spiritual value. Any deliberate destruction would breach international conservation principles and damage Thailand’s credibility abroad.
Anukool called on the public to verify information with credible sources before sharing it. MDES and other agencies continue to monitor and address the spread of false news to prevent misunderstandings and safeguard the nation’s image. (NNT)
