Strategic Appointment to Combat False Narratives
Panadda Takes on Information Warfare
On August 8, 2025, Thailand appointed Panadda Wongphudee, a former Miss Thailand, as the volunteer spokesperson for the Ad Hoc Centre for the Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation. The decision, announced by Deputy Defence Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit, aims to counter what Thai authorities describe as misleading information spread by Cambodia’s National Defence Ministry spokesperson, Lt Gen Maly Socheata. Panadda’s role is to provide accurate updates to both domestic and international audiences, addressing the ongoing war of words following recent border tensions.
Responding to Cambodian Claims
A Direct Counter to Lt Gen Maly
Thai officials have expressed frustration over Lt Gen Maly Socheata’s statements, which they claim are designed to garner international support for Cambodia while undermining Thailand’s reputation. The appointment of Panadda, a well-known actress and social activist, is a deliberate move to challenge these narratives with clarity and credibility. Backed by Thai security forces, she will leverage her online platforms to share factual information, aiming to restore trust and counter disinformation campaigns that have intensified since the border clashes began on July 24, 2025.
Panadda’s Commitment to Truth
Leveraging Experience and Influence
Panadda, crowned Miss Thailand in 2000, brings her experience as an influencer and social activist to the role, motivated by the hardships faced by communities and soldiers during the conflict. She accepted the position after military officials identified her as the ideal candidate to confront Cambodia’s spokesperson. Her commitment to transparency and firsthand knowledge of the affected border regions, including four key provinces, positions her to effectively communicate Thailand’s perspective, fostering understanding amid a fragile ceasefire agreement reached on July 28, 2025.
Ongoing Tensions Despite Ceasefire
Public and Diplomatic Challenges Persist
The appointment, announced a day after the General Border Committee meeting in Kuala Lumpur, underscores the persistent verbal sparring between Thailand and Cambodia despite the ceasefire. Nattaphon’s controversial remark about Panadda’s appearance compared to Maly’s sparked mixed reactions, with some Thai netizens criticizing the decision’s framing. Nevertheless, Panadda’s role is pivotal in addressing the conflict’s impact, which has resulted in significant civilian and military injuries, highlighting the need for accurate communication to stabilize bilateral relations and public perception.
