BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister and Minister of Culture Paetongtarn Shinawatra chaired a meeting at the Ministry of Culture, addressing key issues including the controversial topic of returning ancient artifacts to Cambodia. She reaffirmed that recent online rumors claiming Thailand had already returned 20 ancient items were false.
Paetongtarn clarified that the return of artifacts began in 2015 during the Prayut Chan-o-cha government, with 23 pieces already repatriated after expert verification confirmed their Cambodian origin. The current government under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin approved in May 2024 the return of another 20 items, which are in the process of budget allocation and shipment by the Fine Arts Department. However, due to insufficient funds and the issue not being urgent enough for emergency budget approval, the Ministry is reviewing the timing and financial planning for the return.
She emphasized that the Thai-Cambodian situation requires careful consideration, and no further artifacts have yet been sent back pending this review. Paetongtarn also warned that those spreading false information about the artifact returns would face legal action, highlighting that the misinformation started before she assumed the Culture Minister role.
Regarding the disputed Ta Muen temple group, the Ministry firmly confirmed that it remains under Thai sovereignty, officially registered as a protected archaeological site under Thai law. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is also actively working to safeguard Thai territory and sovereignty in related border areas.
Beyond these issues, Paetongtarn expressed a strong commitment to promoting Thailand’s soft power industries, including film, traditional Thai boxing (Muay Thai), and food. She announced plans to support filmmakers with up to 30% cash rebates to encourage Thai and foreign film production. The goal is to boost cultural exports, tourism, and job creation by linking related industries such as hospitality, restaurants, and tourism services under the soft power umbrella.
