11 July 2024

The management of Bangkok’s luxury shopping mall, Siam Paragon, has ordered the closure of Paragon Cineplex for three days, after Major Group, the operator of the cinemas, held a social event there, which attracted a large crowd of teenagers.

The event, which was streamed live, featuring two popular teen stars of Series Y, Anan Wong and Wanarat Rassamerat, and took place on the 5th floor of the shopping mall on Friday.  The crowds apparently ignored the requirement for social distancing.

The event triggered widespread criticism on social media for appearing to not comply with the anti-COVID-19 safety guidelines.

Siam Paragon’s management issued a statement yesterday (Saturday), expressing regret for the incident, stating that it had ordered the Major Group to close the Cineplex for three daysand to adjust its safety measures, to bring them in line with official health guidance.

Meanwhile, Pathumwan police summoned representatives of the shopping mall this afternoon, and all parties concerned have been told to meet at the Pathumwan district office on Monday.

The Major Group, meanwhile, issued a statement, expressing regret over the event and for the breach of health and safety measures.

Lockdown restrictions on cinemas and theatres were eased by the CCSA from June 1st.