In the latest display of competent policy-crafting, the actual regulations enacted last night contradicted last week’s announcement that vaccinations would be required to eat at restaurants in the 29 hardest-hit provinces, including Bangkok.
According to what was made formal last night, those eateries need only cap capacity at 75% or 50% for indoor, air-conditioned venues.
What was published in the Royal Gazette made no mention of a vaccination requirement.
Responding to the confusion, Suwanchai Wattanayingcharoenchai, director of the Disease Control Department, said that the public should stick with the Royal Gazette’s version for now.
Only a small portion of the population is fully vaccinated, and it was never clear Bangkok’s tens of thousands of eateries, large and small, were supposed to police health documents.
Some restaurants in Bangkok have announced they will reopen tomorrow without a vaccination requirement. Hot pot spot Penguin Eat Shabu said it will limit tables to only two diners, who must book in advance.
Buffet chain Copper Buffet said diners would only need to book in advance when it reopens.
“Finally, the wait is over. See you this Sept. 1. Diners can reserve a spot from 1pm,” reads Copper Buffet’s post on Facebook. “No need to show proof of two-dose vaccinations nor COVID-19 test from antigen test kit.”
Bars remain shut until further notice.
