Without women & booze, not the same Karaoke...

This has upset many local business people who rely on the drinks and companions to help customers loosen up after a stressful day.

A Thai owner of a karaoke in Pattaya who asked not to be identified said, "Under Thaksin we were free of government interference in business matters. Who is the government to tell us how to operate our businesses? I doubt they are going to give my staff jobs or help my family make up the loss of revenue in some other way."

The new regulation threatens owners with revoking their business licenses being if they are caught providing drinks and singing partners for guests.

A Californian casino owner who frequents Pattaya to relax said, "Pattaya is known for its tourism and nightlife and has always offered the best of all entertainment. That is why we come here. It is amazing that an activity like singing can be government regulated. In casinos in California, we are no longer allowed to offer free drinks to gamblers to entice them to bet more. How does stopping singers from drinking and having fun with staff help morals or prevent them losing of money? I doubt anyone has ever complained about spending too much money on singing at karaoke clubs like they have about gambling in casinos,"

"Doesn't the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have any power in influence such regulations? It is their job to promote tourism. This law sends a bad message. What is next? Bar, massage, disco regulations?" he added.

TAT has been without a Governor for many months. The Minister of Tourism and Sports oversees TAT among many other important duties.

Deputy Communications Officer Phumin Leetheeraprasert said the Cabinet also assigned the Office of the Council of State to adjust some of the wording before the regulations are implemented leaving some wiggle room for law interpretation if the Minister of Tourism and Sports and other ministers will take action to overturn or soften this regulation.