People who wish to use loudspeakers or sound systems in wards and villages across Mon State must apply for permission from their local ward or village administrator at least three days in advance, according to an announcement issued on June 20.
The announcement states that applicants must provide details about the purpose of the event, as well as the date and time they intend to use the sound system.
After reviewing the application, ward or village administrators will generally permit the use of loudspeakers only between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
“Those who want to use a loudspeaker must apply at least three days in advance, stating the reason, date, and time. After reviewing the application, permission is usually granted only for use between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.,” said a person who rents out sound systems.
The notice also states that sound systems must be used only at the approved volume, during the permitted hours, and for the approved purpose to avoid disturbing the public.
Under Section 14(c)(1) of the Ward and Village Tract Administration Rules, anyone who uses a loudspeaker without permission may be fined up to 10,000 kyats under Section 27 of the law.
The statement adds that those who fail to pay the fine may face a prison sentence of up to seven days.
“Administrators have recently been visiting homes that use loudspeakers, advising residents to lower the volume and stop using them by 9:00 p.m. However, we have not yet seen any enforcement action,” a resident said.
The regulation was introduced to ensure systematic oversight of loudspeaker use in wards and villages across Mon State and to prevent disruptions to public peace.
According to the announcement, loudspeakers may be used only for approved purposes, and administrators have the authority to revoke permission if deemed necessary.
A proposal to take action against the use of loudspeakers and sound systems was submitted during the first day of the Third Mon State Parliament’s Second Session on June 9 and was approved on the second day of the session on June 12.
The proposal was introduced in response to complaints that excessively loud sound systems commonly used at donation ceremonies and celebrations in Mon State were causing health problems and significant disturbances to nearby residents.
