The government is setting up standard operating procedures (SOPs) for wedding ceremonies and other traditional events nationwide to maintain safety and prevent coronairus transmission.

The ministries of Culture and Fine Arts and Health set up the SOPs after Prime Minister Hun Sen allowed weddings to resume after a long hiatus but required that people invite only a maximum of 200 guests.

According to the SOPs, masters of ceremonies (MCs) shall require guests to show vaccination cards or scan the health ministry’s QR Code, with exemptions granted to people who have not been vaccinated due to health reasons.

Culture minister Phoeurng Sackona said on November 9 that the SOPs would require organisers to ask permission from local authorities to hold any type of ceremony and sign a letter promising to implement appropriate health measures to prevent Covid-19 transmission.

Proper ventilation and lighting are needed with doors and windows at the ceremony kept open, Sackona advised, adding that air conditioning should be avoided. Organisers are encouraged to hold ceremonies outsides of their houses and in open spaces such as shops, restaurants and convention centres. However, holding a ceremony in a marquee on the pavement or roadside is strictly forbidden.

“All participants have to present Covid-19 vaccination cards or scan the QR Code, while the MC or person in charge is responsible for checking the cards or scanning,” she said.

The minister added that the person in charge has to take guests’ temperature and make guests use hand sanitiser when they enter and exit the venue. All participants are required to wear masks, except for the bride and groom. Guests are also required to take a rapid test for Covid-19 before the ceremony commences.

“The MC or person in charge has to take responsibility for conducting the rapid test, and guests are encouraged to take it before attending the event,” she said.

If a guest is suspected of carrying the coronavirus, she or he must be isolated immediately and referred to health officials.

All participants are advised to maintain social distancing of at least 1.5m, except among the groom, bride, their parents and those who need to accompany them at the event. Face-to-face interaction – such as the handling of invitations and wedding gifts – should be avoided and should instead be made by phone, social media or other digital means.

The ministry said western-style traditions at weddings such as cake cutting and bouquet toss, among others, should be curtailed.

Sackona said the number of people sitting at a table shall be reduced and buffet pre-packed food is highly recommended. And although chefs and waiting staff have taken the rapid test, they still need to adhere to full hygiene standards.

She added that event organisers must fully cooperate with relevant authorities, especially local authorities, to implement the SOPs and all necessary measures effectively.