PHNOM PENH: The Ministry of Tourism has issued a memo on the suspension of the sale and consumption of alcohol from July 22-23: the day of and the day before the 7th National Assembly Election.

The Ministry of Tourism disseminated the information on May 16, saying that the measures are meant to ensure that the election process is free, fair and just without violence, threats, intimidation or any other unpleasantness that may occur due to alcohol consumption.

without any phenomena may occur due to alcohol consumption as well as compliance with laws, regulations and procedures for parliamentary elections.

The Ministry has instructed the owners and managers of karaoke businesses (KTV), entertainment clubs, bars, discos, teak and beer gardens throughout the provinces and the capital close for two days, July 22 and 23, 2023. Restaurants will be allowed to stay open, but must suspend the serving of alcohol. All tourism services that provide catering must also suspend the sale of alcohol for the same two days.

The Director of the Capital and Provincial Department of Tourism is required to disseminate information and educate the owners and managers of the tourism services business to implement the policy effectively and responsibly to contribute to the prevention of violence, threats and intimidation in addition to drunk driving and social upheaval that can be caused by drinking alcohol.

Cambodia has set the date for the 7th National Assembly Election 2023 for July 23, 2023.