The clarification follows the Thai government calling for cooperation from entertainment venues and service establishments nationwide to “refrain from or reduce” entertainment activities for a period of 30 days, following the passing of Queen Sirikit last Friday (Oct 24).
Deputy Government Spokesperson Airin Phanrit announced last Saturday (Oct 25) that the Cabinet had approved an official statement from the Office of the Prime Minister expressing profound sorrow at the passing of Queen Sirikit.
The government said it was “deeply saddened” by the news and outlined a series of national mourning measures and preparations for the royal funeral ceremony to be conducted in accordance with ancient royal tradition.
Under the Cabinet resolution, all government offices, state enterprises, government agencies and educational institutions are to fly national flags at half-mast for 30 days, starting from Oct 25.
Government officials, state enterprise employees and government officials are to observe a mourning period of one year, while members of the public are requested to dress and conduct themselves appropriately during the mourning period.
Ms Airin specifically noted that entertainment and service venues are requested to show respect during this time of national mourning by reducing or suspending entertainment activities for 30 days, as deemed appropriate.
The announcement spurred panic among many nightlife operators throughout the country, spurring Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul himself to clarify to the media that the government had not imposed any ban on private celebrations or entertainment events.
He said while festivities were not prohibited, organisers were encouraged to exercise discretion and adjust the tone of their events to reflect the national atmosphere of mourning.
"There is no ban on concerts or festive gatherings," Mr Anutin told the press at Government House. "The prime minister’s secretary general [Traisuree Taisaranakul] has clarified the matter,’’ he said.
When asked whether traditional ceremonies such as weddings or ordinations could proceed, Mr Anutin said cultural and religious events may continue as usual, subject to the organisers’ judgement. Alcohol sales and venue operating hours remain unchanged but he urged business owners to avoid excessive revelry.
PHUKET TAKE
Patong Council President Weerawit Kreuasombat, who has for decades also served as the President of the Patong Entertainment Business Association (PEBA), which represents more than 800 nightlife businesses in Patong, said entertainment venues can continue business as usual, but must do so respectfully.
“Businesses in Patong can still hold events, but they must operate appropriately. Live music should be held in moderation and with appropriateness,” Mr Weerawit said.
“For outdoor events, if there are limited light and sound shows, that’s fine. Each case will be considered individually. Private sector events can still be held, but they should include a moment of silence to show respect,” he added.
Phuket Provincial Police Chief Pol Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum also confirmed that guidelines had been issued to all nightlife operators, in line with the government’s request for cooperation during the mourning period.
Pol Maj Gen Sinlert clarified three key measures are: reduce noise levels, limit lighting and decorative displays and maintain service in a manner that is not overly festive or joyful.
“Loy Krathong [to be observed Wednesday next week, Nov 5] and other private sector events may still proceed, provided they are moderate and not excessively extravagant,” he added.
Meanwhile, Kongsak Koophongsakorn, President of the Phuket Chamber of Commerce, noted that while mourning is essential, the economy must continue to function.
“If the scale of events is reduced too much, this will have an economic impact. The government understands the grief shared by the people, but the national economy must continue uninterrupted,” he said.
He added that events could still be held in a subdued format, incorporating respectful gestures such as moments of silence or speeches in honour of Queen Sirikit’s contributions, while avoiding overly festive or inappropriate elements.