Pattaya —
A group of business operators in Pattaya met with law enforcement officials to discuss extending the legal operating hours of nighttime businesses to 4 AM in a bid to boost tourism revenue.
A video version of this story can be found here on our YouTube.
The meeting, which took place on November 1st, was attended by Pol. Maj. Gen. Nanthawut Suwanlaong, Deputy Commander of Region 2 Police, Pol. Col. Thanapong Phothiti, Superintendent of Pattaya Police Station, Mr. Pharadon Chainaporn, Banglamung District Secretary and relevant officers from nearby police stations including Banglamung, Nongprue, and Sri Racha; and business operators in the Pattaya area.
The meeting was held to discuss the Thai Government proposal to extend the service hours of nighttime businesses in Pattaya until 4:00 AM. Some police were against the extension, but nightlife business operators were united in believing it should take place to boost tourism.
According to Maj. Gen. Nanthawut, he mentioned that the extension could contribute positively to the economy, but it could also lead to an increase in criminal activities and drinking-related accidents.
The officer also expressed concerns about potential hikes in pollution such as loud noises and the negative impact the extension could have on daytime businesses.
On the other hand, nightlife business operators expressed their support for the proposal to extend the operating hour. They also proposed the extension of legal entertainment zones into Jomtien and Naklua and emphasized the importance of training staff of all venues to ensure consistent service quality.
The observations and meeting notes would be provided to the Thai Government for further deliberation.
Meanwhile, on October 30th, 2023, Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced plans to extend the opening hours of entertainment venues in select tourist areas to boost tourism during the peak season.
The proposal will undergo further discussion by the Thai Cabinet and Ministry of the Interior, with a final decision expected by December 15th, 2023.
Anutin emphasized that strict adherence to the laws must be upheld by all entertainment venues. The pilot program will initially focus on Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Bangkok, with additional areas considered in the future. The inclusion of Pattaya, however, remains uncertain, pending final deliberations before December 15th.
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