Cambodia's Ministry of Culture criticized Thailand on 13/5, demanding its neighbor "revoke the illegal registration decision" concerning sites in the disputed border area between the two countries. This strong reaction came after Bangkok listed temples, including Tamone, Ta Krabey, and K'nar (Cambodia's names for Ta Muen, Ta Kwai, and Nong Khana), as national ancient monuments.
"Cambodia considers Thailand's registration an illegal attempt to create a false legal cover for cultural heritage located within the sovereign territory of the Kingdom of Cambodia," the ministry stated.
Thailand's Royal Gazette announced on 12/5 that the country's Fine Arts Department had officially listed 9 historical sites in Surin province as national ancient monuments. These include the Ta Muen, Ta Kwai, and Nong Khana temple complexes, located in the border area with Cambodia.
According to Thailand's Fine Arts Department, the move aims to establish a clearer legal basis for protecting ancient monuments under its heritage preservation law. Phanomboot Chanthachot, the department's head, approved the decision on 9/4.
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Thai officials held a ceremony at the Ta Kwai temple site (called Ta Krabey by Cambodia) on 22/4. *Photo: AFP*
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Location of some disputed Thai and Cambodian temples on the border. *Graphic: Guardian*
Thailand and Cambodia have long disagreed on the demarcation of their 800-kilometer border, leading to repeated conflicts over several centuries-old ancient temples. Tensions escalated into clashes in July and December 2025, resulting in dozens of deaths and the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of people on both sides.
Before the July 2025 conflict, both Thai and Cambodian soldiers were present at Ta Krabey and Tamone temples, while Phnom Penh controlled K'nar temple. However, after the December 2025 conflict, Bangkok gained control of all three temples, along with several villages in the disputed area.
Thai officials held a ceremony at Ta Krabey last month, a move that drew opposition from Cambodia.
Nhu Tam (According to AFP, Khaosod)
