On Feb 6, Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew said the new Bill, which bans the recreational use of cannabis, will be proposed at the Cabinet meeting next week.
“The new Bill will be amended from the existing one to only allow the use of cannabis for health and medicinal purposes,” he told reporters. “The use for fun is considered wrong.”
There was fresh pressure from the public earlier in February after attendees of British rock band Coldplay’s shows in Bangkok complained on social media, saying “the entire concert smelled like marijuana”. AFP
Coldplay concert buzz dampened by cannabis fumes in Bangkok
Imagine yourself in the midst of a Coldplay concert at Rajamangala National Stadium in the heart of Bangkok. As anticipation builds, an unexpected guest appears in the crowd – the unmistakable scent of marijuana. Despite the international recognition and excitement of live music, a controversy over the smell of cannabis is in the air, causing mixed reactions among the audience. This Saturday was more than just a music festival, it was a catalyst for a broader debate about cannabis regulation in Thailand.
Health Minister Chornan Shrikeu appeared on stage promising to review the law. Bright Tuesday morning, he announced plans to introduce a revised version of the Cannabis and Hemp Regulation Bill. The new bill emphasizes the medical use of cannabis, but clearly prohibits recreational use.
