On May 20, 2026, Dr. Lertluck Leelaruangsang, Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), announced the launch of the “Alcohol and Tobacco-Free Shops During Buddhist Lent 2026” campaign. Organized through the BMA Health Department, the initiative encourages local shop owners, restaurants, and network partners to actively participate in reducing, abstaining from, and quitting alcohol and tobacco consumption during the three-month Buddhist Lent period. The campaign invites Bangkok businesses that normally sell alcoholic beverages to voluntarily pause alcohol sales for three months, contributing to a healthier society, reducing public health risks, and fostering positive community values.
To support participating businesses, the BMA will provide promotional materials, including custom aprons and shop signs, alongside online publicity through official BMA media channels and certificates of appreciation. Furthermore, businesses that maintain their participation continuously for three years will be honored with a special plaque of appreciation from the BMA. Dr. Lertluck emphasized that alcohol consumption and smoking heavily impact public health, acting as leading causes of severe illnesses like cirrhosis, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, while also serving as major risk factors for traffic accidents, domestic violence, and broader social issues.
By inviting business owners to join, the BMA aims to co-create a safer, healthier urban environment during this spiritually significant period. Interested shop and restaurant owners can easily register for the campaign online through the official registration link at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfXC3QMZ41yYxixq_0j0X-x26FIQt5Pq0_ffnmHrAv-l-SA6A/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=100395241709794666020 or by scanning the QR codes provided on promotional materials. For more comprehensive details regarding the initiative, the public can contact the Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Office under the BMA Health Department directly at Tel. 0 2354 4236.
—————————
#BMA
