“Have fun, but stay within limits” – The debate over loud molam concerts and events continues as many are left with no choice but to “endure the noise. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya is famous for its electric nightlife, pulsating festivals, and round-the-clock energy. For some, the sound of music pounding through the streets is a sign of life, fun, and tourism. But for many others, it’s a relentless assault on peace, turning what should be a relaxing holiday or a quiet evening at home into a battle of endurance. Recently, a mor lam concert near Soi Khao Talo became a flashpoint in the long-simmering debate over noise control in the city. After complaints flooded social media channels like the Pattaya Mayor’s Direct Line page and hotline 1337 Max, Pattaya authorities stepped in. Officials from the Public Health and Environment Division measured the noise and ordered that volume levels be kept under 90 decibels—an attempt to reduce disturbance to nearby residents. “You can have fun, but it must be within the boundaries of the law and not infringe on the rights of others.” While this sounds reasonable in theory, the reality on the ground is far more divisive. Voices from the Public: A City Divided Many residents welcomed the move. “That area is residential, with many homes—agree completely.” “At least now I can sleep. My windows were shaking before!” “Good step forward. Just don’t let the noise go past 2 a.m.” Others, however, questioned the selective enforcement: “Why do Chinese pubs on Pattaya Third Road get to blast music until 5-6 in the morning and no one checks?” “How about the fireworks shows by the city itself? Dogs, cats, people—everyone suffers, and the city never limits those.” “Noise from big bikes, emergency sirens, and waterparks—will those get controlled too?” “Whose rights matter?” – In a tourist city like Pattaya, loud events bring joy to some and sleepless nights to others. A significant number of commenters expressed frustration with double standards, where private organizers face scrutiny, but city-run events or Chinese-owned businesses seem to operate above the rules. “If you’re going to enforce the law, make it fair. Same rule for all—pubs, bars, fireworks, city concerts.” “When the city hosts events, no one talks about decibel levels. But when it’s a cultural show like mor lam, suddenly it’s a problem?” Cultural Clash or Class Divide? Some see the controversy as a deeper issue—a clash of values between modern entertainment and traditional culture. “Mor lam isn’t just loud music—it’s culture, it’s heritage. But we need proper venues, like stadiums or theaters, away from homes.” “I’m Isaan. I love mor lam and heavy bass, but I also understand people need sleep. We need compromise.” Yet others feel cultural respect is lacking: “People complain like mor lam happens every day. It’s just one night! But bars disturb every night!” “It’s not fair. You say you support tourism, but you kill the culture.” Real Solutions or Empty Promises? In a city that markets itself as an international tourism hub, the noise issue is complex. Tourism brings money, energy, and diversity—but without regulation, it can destroy the very communities it’s meant to uplift. “One person’s entertainment can be another’s nightmare” – Concert noise exceeding 90 decibels sparks complaints from nearby residents. Suggestions from the public include: -Establishing regulated performance zones for outdoor events -Creating a uniform city-wide noise policy that applies to public and private events alike -Transparency in enforcement, especially in nightlife hotspots -Limiting fireworks and sirens in residential zones -Involving communities in event planning, especially in cultural showcases like mor lam A Bigger Question One comment captured the core of the issue: “Why must we always ‘tolerate’? Why not find balance?” Pattaya’s noise problem isn’t just about decibels. It’s about fairness, respect, and a vision for a city that can celebrate life without deafening it. As one resident put it: “People who came to enjoy the music were a few dozen. Those who suffered from the noise? More than a thousand.” If Pattaya wants to be a truly inclusive tourist city, it must learn how to turn down the volume—without turning off the soul. “Can we have one standard for all?” – Locals question fairness in noise control across concerts, fireworks, clubs, and emergency sirens.