Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is encouraging Thais to wear traditional costumes during Friday's Loy Krathong festival, according to a government spokesman.
Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said the prime minister will lead cabinet ministers and their spouses in wearing traditional Thai costumes during a festival event at the Klong Phadung Krung Kasem canal near Government House today.
He said Gen Prayut is also encouraging participants to use krathong made from natural, biodegradable materials, while each family and state agency should only float one krathong.
Participants in Loy Krathong festivities are required to follow Covid-19 guidelines that call for social distancing, mask-wearing, hand-washing, temperature-checking and the use of the Thai Chana app, Mr Thanakorn said.
"The prime minister expects many more people to take part in the festivities in several areas," he said. "He wants revellers to enjoy themselves at the festival while taking precautions against [Covid-19]."
"After the festival, the prime minister will instruct agencies to make an assessment and come up with better disease control guidelines for New Year celebrations."
Maj Gen Thirapong Pattamasing na Ayutthaya, spokesman for the Royal Thai Armed Forces headquarters, said Gen Chalermpol Srisawat, chief of the defence forces, in his capacity as the person responsible for security emergencies, is concerned about the spread of Covid-19.
The chief has instructed organisers of Loy Krathong festivities in the provinces to follow the "Covid-Free Setting and Universal Prevention" guidelines, he said.
The release of hot-air lanterns, fireworks and firecracker shows, and the sale of alcoholic drinks will be banned.