On July 4, 2015, Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, spokesman for the Prime Minister's Office, clarified the case of ill-wishers releasing news that the government, through the Ministry of Culture, would deliver 20 antiques to Cambodia, saying that the matter was an old story from 2000, or 25 years ago. At that time, the Customs Department seized 43 antiques that looked like Cambodian antiques that were illegally imported from Singapore

Later, the Fine Arts Department inspected and at that time, 23 items were returned as verified. The Cambodian government then submitted a request to return the remaining 20 antiques, along with documents and evidence to confirm the claim to the antiques.

The government spokesman added that from the investigation by the Fine Arts Department by several committees, it was concluded that all 20 antiques were originated in Cambodia. The Ministry of Culture therefore returned the 20 antiques to Cambodia in accordance with international law.

This is an issue that happened 25 years ago. I don’t understand why keyboard warriors would use this to attack the Ministry of Culture, when Thailand has asked for many Thai antiques to be returned from Europe and other countries

“If anything can be taken lightly, take it lightly. Think about the benefits of the country first. Importantly, it is an old story from 25 years ago, but they are still digging it up to bully without knowing the origin of the story. In the end, Thailand will be damaged. Many Thai antiques abroad may definitely become a problem,” said Mr. Jirayu