Bangkok's metropolitan authority on Saturday ordered the closure of shopping malls and entertainment facilities in the capital to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The order, effective for 22 days from Sunday, exempts supermarkets, convenience stores and pharmacies, including those located in malls, according to a statement issued by city hall. Restaurants providing take-out and delivery are also allowed to stay open.

(Thai officials conduct temperature screenings at Siam Paragon Mall on Feb. 4, 2020 in Bangkok.)
[Getty/Kyodo]

Violators will face a prison sentence of up to one year or a fine of 100,000 baht ($3,070), it said.

Bangkok's governor Asawin Kwanmuang also requested people to practice social distancing and work from home if possible.

Bangkok has a population of nearly 9 million, and of the some 5,500 Japanese companies operating in Thailand, most are based in the sprawling metropolis.

The country's health authority on Saturday reported 89 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the national tally to 411.


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