TV and radio channels can resume normal programming from Jan 22, says the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), following the suspension of entertainment programmes after the passing of His Majesty the King on Oct 13.
The NBTC has released its new content broadcast guidelines for TV broadcasters covering digital, cable and satellite television, as well as radio stations. From Nov 13, they will be able to resume limited broadcasting of entertainment programmes.
Col Natee Sukonrat, chairman of the NBTC's broadcasting committee, said TV channels and radio stations could resume the broadcast of entertainment content from Nov 13, but some programmes will not be allowed to accommodate the mourning period. All programming, however, can resume as normal on Jan 22.
"TV and radio broadcasters have to consider the content as people are still in mourning," he said.
Under the new guidelines, TV operators can broadcast programmes rated for general, children and audiences aged from 13 during Nov 13-18. But they must not broadcast vulgar, humorous, violent or risque content during the mourning period.
TV operators can broadcast programmes rated for general audiences, children, teenagers, and those aged from 18 during Nov 19-Jan 21, but they must not broadcast content of an explicitly sexual, violent or vulgar nature during that time.
Col Natee said that more explicit content intended for adults could once again be broadcast from Jan 22 onward.
Meanwhile, all TV channels must be ready to link their signals to TV Pool when broadcasting content related to the royal funeral.