The Interior Ministry is determining suitable locations as test areas for the government's plan to allow night entertainment venues to stay open until 4am.
Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said on Thursday that the Interior Ministry is willing to follow the new regulation set by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin that would extend night entertainment venue operating hours from 2am to 4am.
Pilot locations will be revealed after each related party, including the police and business owners, prepare safety protocols and operating procedures, said Mr Anutin.
When asked how the authorities would ensure tourist safety, Mr Anutin said night entertainment venue operators must strictly screen their customers and cooperate with officers.
Although finalised details have yet to be released, national police chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol said the police are willing to enforce the new regulation.
Sanga Ruangwattanakul, president of the Khao San Road Business Association, said he agrees with the extension for selling alcohol and venue-operating hours. The association will meet next week before submitting an open letter to the PM to end the restriction on alcohol-selling hours.
