Bangkok: The Royal Thai Army has confirmed that Cambodia’s recent alteration of the “Ta Muen Thom” marker on Google Maps carries no legal significance. This adjustment, reported to have shifted the marker from Thai to Cambodian territory on the platform, does not affect legal standings either domestically or internationally.

According to Thai News Agency, Army spokesman Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvari addressed concerns circulating on social media about the marker’s movement and the hypothetical border lines at Ta Muen Thom Temple. The changes on Google Maps have raised fears of potential misuse as false evidence in lawsuits with foreign media and the International Court of Justice. Additionally, there are concerns that the adjustment could lead to misunderstandings regarding the temple’s territorial status, suggesting it is in Cambodia and that Thailand might have intentions to infringe upon Cambodian territory.

Maj. Gen. Suvari explained that Google Earth and Google Maps derive their data from the private sector, primarily for public navigation services, and often contain discrepancies from actual locations, particularly when it comes to border lines. He emphasized that the data from these applications does not hold any legal authority at either the national or international level.

In cases of inaccuracies within the application, users are encouraged to report these to the company for correction. It is affirmed that Thailand has consistently maintained sovereignty over the Ta Muen Thom temple area, supported by geographical evidence and the continuous governance by Thai authorities.