Dr. Taweesin Visanuyothin, the spokesperson for the Center for Covid-19 Situation Administration in Bangkok, also known as the CCSA, confirmed the announcements made by the Thai Government for reopening closed businesses in Thailand affected by the Covid19 Coronavirus.
Dr. Taweesin stated that nearly 95 percent of restrictions were now unlocked with only a few exceptions still closed, notably bars, pubs, karaoke lounges, nightclub, massage parlours (soapies) and nightlife related venues. He did not specifically state when these venues would be considered for opening or state if there would be a Phase Five in the immediate future for these venues.
The venues that will be allowed to reopen effective from Monday, June 15, most with strict new rules on social distancing and hygiene:
-Schools with less than 120 students, school buildings for activities and informal learning. Most Government schools scheduled to open on July First.
-Government buildings for trainings, learning, conferences, etc. With social distancing rules in effect
Activities like conferences, training, seminars, exhibitions, ceremonies, banquets, music, dance, concerts and various other activities held in hotels, convention centers, exhibition centers, cinemas and other locations that use the criteria of 24 square meters per person. Also, catering events, product launches, competitions and sporting events can be done, but must sit at least 1 meter apart.
For concerts, must have five meters of space per person and not allow a dense or packed area.
Restaurants, Hotels, food courts, markets, etc may sell alcohol. However, bars, pubs, night clubs, karaoke lounges, soapie massages and nightlife specific entertainment venues must remain closed. Social distancing rules must be followed and no special promotions or events. Beer girl style hostesses are prohibited at restaurants, and other similar promotions.
Playgrounds, water parks, amusement parks may open except for ball pits and inflatable houses.
Arcades can open in malls but not stand alone locations. He added these could actually open from today.
Airplanes are not required to social distance and all seats can be used if everyone is wearing masks.
Bus transport can be full up to 70 percent of capacity now.
Sports stadiums and all sporting event fields can open, can be broadcast on tv, but no audiences at this time. Competitive events are ok.
Dr. Taweesin noted that all this would go into a final official order and the Government Gazette “soon”. He also stressed that governors of provinces may release individual orders and to keep an eye out for them.