New year countdown events proceeded smoothly in major cities nationwide as organisers and revellers took precautions against Covid-19, government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said.
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, he said, commended all sectors for their cooperation when holding new year activities under the "Universal Prevention" and "Covid-Free Setting" measures, which required organisers, staff and participants to be fully vaccinated for the events.
"Overall, countdown activities went smoothly nationwide, such as the events at CentralWorld, Siam Paragon and Iconsiam. "There, participants wore masks and organisers set up health screening checkpoints and conducted antigen tests and verified vaccination information before participants were allowed to take part," he said.
Few incidents were reported where revellers failed to observe safeguards.
Many business operators also had also adopted the SHA (Safety and Health Administration) Plus hygiene and safety standards, which helps boost tourism and the confidence of revellers during the festive period, the spokesman said.
In Chiang Mai, a fireworks display was held under the theme of "Lanna Celebration" at the Royal Park Rajapruek, Mr Thanakorn said.
It was held under a health safety protocol and in line with the country's reopening plans.
Meanwhile, army chief Gen Narongphan Jitkaewtae issued a message wishing soldiers nationwide a happy new year to give them moral support and encourage them to do more work for the public's good this year, assistant army spokeswoman Lt Col Patcharin Busayukol said.
The army had carried out a range of tasks over the past year, including protecting the monarchy, safeguarding the country from threats and supporting government efforts to improve the plight of people affected by Covid-19.
"Every one of you was instrumental in bringing about success in the operations in the past year, which helped the army gain recognition," Lt Col Patcharin quoted the army chief as saying.
"For 2022, the army will maintain such continuity and remain steadfast in working for the common good as well as improving all aspects of the army's capabilities," Gen Narongphan was quoted as saying.