PY O C E FRE
EXCITING TRAVEL PACKAGES PAGES 16-20
XPRESS
DAILY
Friday, July 24, 2009 VOL 2, NO 382 dailyxpress.net
WEEKEND TRAVEL
Visit LAMPHUN’S community museum plus check out Good Deals Page 6
GO TO A MOVIE
DAILY XPRESS/UTHORN SRIPHANTHA
SEE ‘NEE TAM GALILEO’ PAGE 11
GO CLUBBING
FEEL FiT DON’T MISS the exciting and highly beneficial Thailand Health and Wellness fair that is guaranteed to help you stay in the pink >PAGE 2
HIT THE DANCE FLOOR AFTER DARK PAGE 9
2 TODAY
Friday, July 24, 2009
THE CITY
Chuan,Phra Prom Kunaporn ‘masters of Thai’
66.903 million THAILAND’S POPULATION as of this month; 32.876 million are men and 34.027 million women.
Motorcycle
give-away
briefly Malpractice suit dismissed
D A I LY X P R E S S
The Culture Ministry has named former prime minister Chuan Leekpai and highly respected monk Phra Prom Kunaporn (PA Payutto) the masters of the Thai language. Dictionary maker Sathienpong Wannapok and four others have also been accorded the same honour. “The awards will be handed out at the Thailand Cultural Centre next Wednesday,” Culture Minister Teera Slukpetch said yesterday. July 29 is Thai Language Day. In another category of honour, the ministry has listed TV-news anchorman Kitti Singhapat, famous columnist Roj Ngarmmaen (Pleaw Si-ngern), and TV host Thongchai Prasongsanti outstanding Thai-language users. Singer Ekkachai Sriwichai and SEA Write award-winner Charoen Malaroj (Mala Kamchan), meanwhile, have been named outstanding users of Thai dialects.
Top singers In the singing arena, the Culture Ministry has named Thanaporn Waekprayoon best female singer. There is no best male singer this year, but Sukrit Visetkaew (“Be The Star”) and Thongchai McIntyre are judged as deserving honourable mention. According to a recent survey, 48.3 per cent of children believes teenagers have distorted the Thai language. The survey was conducted among 6,625 youths aged between 15 and 18. Of the respondents, 24.5 per cent blamed actors/actresses while 12.3 per cent blamed teachers. DAILY
XPRESS
DAILY XPRESS
AP Honda will give away this unique motorcycle to a lucky Liverpool fan. Equipped with a Programmed Fuel-Injection system, this Honda Click I vehicle is special because Liverpool stars have signed on it.
LIVE HEALTHILY The Thailand Health and Wellness fair has everything for you – a free check-up, innovative equipment, advice and more By Parinyaporn Pajee D A I LY X P R E S S
W
ith type-A (H1N1) influenza spreading across the kingdom, thousands of health-concious people flocked to the Thailand Health and Wellness 2009 fair yesterday. Besides a free physical checkup at various hospital and clinic booths, many fair-goers packed the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (THPF) stall highlighting do-it-yourself exercise and wellness equipment made of recycled materials such as glass bottles, used tires and everyday objects including elastic bands. Public Health Minister
Witthaya Kaewparadai demonstrated stretching using an elastic band at the THPF booth. Nearby was innovative footmassage equipment made from dozens of empty bottles packed in a motorcycle tyre. The bottles are designed for filling either warm or cold herbal liquids. Water-tap pipes and antique bicycles were modified into new exercise bikes. “We aim to educate people to be concious of living a healthy life,” said the THPF’s Wiwat Wikrantanoros. “A healthy lifestyle means a healthy body, mind – and society,” added Assoc Prof Vichit Khanuengsukkasem of the Thai
Association for Health, Physical Education and Recreation (TAHPER). Long-time alcohol drinker Prakob Panngam checked out the “Stop Alcohol Drinking” campaign at the THPF booth. “Drinking has destroyed my health down the years, especially when I’ve been getting older. So I need to learn how to stop drinking alcohol permanently,” explained the 41-yearold engineer. Hosted by THPF, TAHPER and Nation Multimedia Group, the fair features a variety of workouts, with professionals on hand demonstrating everything from Muay Thai and tai chi to aerobics and yoga. The fair runs until Sunday at Impact Exhibition Centre’s Hall 506, Muang Thong Thani.
The Nonthaburi Provincial Court yesterday dismissed a malpractice lawsuit against the Public Health Ministry. In the case, Manoon Tinneung and his wife had demanded Bt12 million compensation from the ministry after their daughter fell into a comatose state in 2003 during her admission to a state hospital in Loei. The parents believed the hospital failed to treat the girl properly. The ministry had reportedly offered to pay Bt500,000, but Manoon refused. The court said it decided to drop the case because the girl’s comatose state came from the disease, not from malpractice. Manoon said he would approach the Court of Appeals.
It’s not a game The Family Media Watch Network yesterday called on Culture Minister Teera Slukpetch to maintain a rule that children under 18 years of age cannot stay in game cafes for longer than three hours a day. The Cabinet had recently approved a Culture Ministry proposal to lift the time limit. “We are disappointed. What has made the ministry do so? Does it get inaccurate information or is there someone reaping benefits from gaming cafes?” the network’s chairwoman Anya-orn Panichpeungrak asked. Teera said the legal limit on the number of hours allowed for children in game cafes was lifted because it was not practical. – Daily Xpress
Editor: Tulsathit Taptim / Managing Editor: Thanong Khanthong / Deputy Managing Editors: Kumar Krishnan, Jintana Panyaarvudh / Design Editor: Leroy A Sylk Web Co-editors: Marisa Chimprabha, Paisal Chuenprasaeng / The City Editor: Chularat Saengpassa / The Fun Editor: Veena Thoopkrajae / Sport Editor: Preechachan Wiriyanupappong / Group Editor in Chief: Suthichai Yoon
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4
GLOBETROT
Friday, July 24, 2009
THE WORLD
DAILY XPRESS
Italy has blocked the sale of two luxury yachts worth
12.5 million
¤
to impoverished North Korea because it suspects they are destined for reclusive leader Kim Jong-Il
British women want to be curvy A F P , London
B
ritish women hanker after a curvy hourglass body shape rather than trying to be ultra slim, preferring Kate Winslet to Kate Moss, according to a poll published on Wednesday. Sixty per cent admitted to being either an “apple” or “pear shape”, but 75 per cent said they wanted a figure like Catherine ZetaJones or Marilyn Monroe, against only 10 per cent
AP
Twin bundles of joy
Newly born giant panda cubs at the panda base in Chengdu, China’s Sichuan province. Panda Li Li gave birth to the twin female cubs at the breeding centre on Sunday, the first twin giant panda babies born this year.
Alleged fraudster promised love, took money A man who allegedly tricked lovestruck women into parting with more than ¤100,000 (Bt4.8 million) has been caught by German police. The 41-year-old alleged fraudster is thought to have swindled at least four women across Germany by promising them a shared future whilst also asking them for help with financial problems. Investigators said the unemployed man had presented himself as a successful businessman to women he met through personal ads. “As soon as there was talk of great love, the requests came to lend him money for a variety of reasons,” the police report said. When the man allegedly tried to blackmail a woman for ¤10,000 with a secretly filmed video, she contacted the police, who arrested him when they met for the money handover. – D P A
Police raid offices of Jackson’s doctor King of Pop’s death being treated as possible manslaughter A F P , Los Angeles
F
ederal agents and detectives swooped on the offices of Michael Jackson’s doctor as lawyers for the physician revealed police are treating the star’s death as possible manslaughter. A spokeswoman for the Drug Enforcement Administration confirmed that a search with the Los Angeles police took place at the offices of the Armstrong medical clinic in Houston, Texas, where doctor Conrad Murray practises. Murray has emerged as the central figure in the mystery
surrounding Jackson’s death in Los Angeles on June 25 and was the last person to have seen the pop star alive at his mansion.
Suspicion The official coroner’s report into the 50-year-old singer’s demise has deferred the cause of death amid speculation that powerful prescription drugs he was believed to be taking may have been to blame. Suspicion has also focused on a dangerous sedative – propofol, known by the trade name Diprivan – used to induce unconsciousness in hos-
pital patients ahead of major surgery. Reports say it was also found at Jackson’s home. Television reports showed several law enforcement agents entering Murray’s Houston offices in a dramatic new twist to the four-week-old investigation. Los Angeles police had previously refused to rule out homicide in the case but had shied away from making any formal announcement that the pop icon’s death could lead to criminal charges. “Dr Murray is frustrated by negative and often erroneous media reports. He has to walk around 24-7 with a bodyguard. He can’t operate his practice,” said his lawyers.
75% SAY THEY WANT A FIGURE LIKE CATHERINE ZETA-JONES OR MARILYN MONROE; ONLY 10% PER CENT WANT TO SQUEEZE INTO A SLIM SIZE 10 DRESS. who wanted to squeeze into a slim size 10 dress. The findings reflect changing attitudes in Britain – where obesity is a growing problem – among women tired of the socalled Size Zero culture long fuelled by advertising and the fashion industry. The findings might raise eyebrows in neighbouring France, which has the highest proportion of clinically underweight women in Europe, according to a study published in April.
6 ENTERTAINMENT
Friday, July 24, 2009
THE FUN. good deal Golfers’ delight All this year golfers get a deal
with the Grand Millennium Sukhumvit’s “Tee-Off Indulgence”. The rate of Bt8,500 includes a deluxe room, breakfast, a pair of massages – 45 minutes “preswing” and 90 minutes “postswing” – access to the gym and pool and a round of golf, including caddy, greens fees and transport to the course. Tee up at www.Grand MilenniumSkv.com.
DAILY XPRESS
TRAVEL & ENTERTAINMENT
D AY O U T
Walls that speak XTRA H I S T O R Y B E C KO N S >> If you have antiques or memorabilia of northern or Lanna origin, the museum would love to have them. DAILY XPRESS/ WANCHAI KRAISORNKHAJIT
>> The museum, located behind the Haripunchai National Museum, is open daily from 9 to 4. There’s no admission fee. >> Call (053) 511 500 or (084) 808 4016 or visit www. Haripoonchai.com.
Lamphun’s Community Museum has been a royal residence, school, restaurant and radio station
When you’re in love Couples can bask in beachside romance at the Anantara Phuket Resort and Spa starting at Bt32,300 for a pool villa or Bt39,300 for a sala pool villa. The lodging comes with daily breakfast in your room, a bottle of champagne at lunch, a personalised candlelit dinner and an in-villa spa bath. The details are at www.Anantara.com.
Log in to Luxury The Luxury Collection Hotels and Resorts offers a portal to exceptional destinations on its new website, www.Luxury Collection.com. Up to 70 resorts and spas worldwide will be posting information on promotions, activities and booking deals.
By Pattarasuda Prajittanond S P E C I A L T O D A I LY X P R E S S
T
here’s nothing tedious or typical about Kum Sumpantawong, the Community Museum in Lamphun that’s a time machine with the keys left in the ignition. Rubber toys, stamps, matchboxes, typewriters, kitchenware and photos furnish the former residence. Built in a U-shape with an upstairs of mostly teak and stucco everywhere beneath, it has the lovely gables of Lamphun’s old houses and a ceiling held together without nails. It was the residence of Prince Raj and Princess Songlah Sampantawong during King Rama VI’s reign. Vassal Prince Chakrakum Khajornsak, who ruled the town, gave it to his sister as a wedding present in 1912. Kum Sumpantawong was the original name of the house built for Lamphun’s vassal Lanna
prince during the reign of King Rama I.
The next chapter In 1946 Chinese traders bought the building for Bt58,000 and opened the province’s first Chinese school, Wun Zheng, which means “development and justice”. The school was shut down three years later in the midst of the government’s anti-Chinese fervour, but soon reopened as Mongkhol Wittaya School. The building subsequently became the home of a restaurant called Kum Ton Keaw and Modern Radio Lamphun. All of this history – and that of the province – is celebrated in photos around the museum. Out back is a mock-up of a long-gone local cinema, the Haripunchai Rama. The bedrooms upstairs now host lessons in traditional music, amid an array of folk instruments.
Kum Sampantawong is full of memorabilia, such as photos of 1953’s Miss Thailand first runner-up, top, a Lamphun native. Displays of old stationery, below, recall the building’s days as a school.
Friday, July 24, 2009
4
ENTERTAINMENT 7
DAILY XPRESS
THE 98TH BAYREUTH FESTIVAL, dedicated to the music of Richard Wagner, opens tomorrow in Vienna with new directors – Wagner’s greatgranddaughters, Katharina Wagner, 31, and Eva Wagner-Pasquier, 64, daughters of 90-year-old Wolfgang Wagner, who led the festival for 57 years.
MONTHS after he escaped from prison, bank robber John Dillinger was gunned down by FBI agents on July 22, 1934. The Johnny Depp movie “Public Enemies” shot that historic scene on the same spot in front of the Biograph Theatre in Chicago.
Woof
and poof
briefly Get your free tickets here
DAILY XPRESS/SOMCHAI KHUMKUN
Jazz guitarist Changton Kunchorn na Ayutthaya will perform in the 33rd Judprakai Concert at 8 next Friday at the Thailand Cultural Centre’s Small Hall. Changton will demonstrate “The Art of Jazz Guitar” with guests Ball of Apartment Khunpa and vocalist Namfon Pakdee. After studying economics at Chulalongkorn, Changton got his chops studying at Berklee College of Music in Boston. He’s a former member of Denny and Friends. Tickets are Bt500 to Bt1,000 at Thaiticketmajor, but Daily Xpress has two pairs to give away. Just be the first to send an e-mail to ntlife@nationgroup.com, subject: Judprakai #33. You have until noon on Monday.
‘Fantasia’ winners Oodles of poodles await at the Pet Expo Thailand 2009 at the Queen Sirikit Convention Centre until Sunday. “Creativity with Love” is this year’s theme. Highlights include artworks, pet fashions and boutique designer accessories. Find out where you can take a vacation with your four-legged friends in the “Travel with Pets” zone. Feline friends are welcome too, in the Cat Zone. The fair is open daily from 10 to 8. Admission is free. Call (02) 203 4281 or click www.PetExpoThailand.net.
FILM REVIEW
Shooting blanks In the drama on gangster John Dillinger, director Michael Mann dazzles the eye, but ‘Public Enemies’ feels empty By Christy Lemire A S S O C I AT E D P R E S S
W
ith “Public Enemies”, all the pieces would seem to be in place for an epic gangster drama: director Michael Mann, who has an affinity for complicated criminals; stars Johnny Depp and Christian Bale, who are famous for immersing themselves in their roles; and a thrilling true story of brazen bank robbers on the run. Trouble is, “Public Enemies’’ feels rather stagnant. It looks terrific with its period details and costumes, rich production values and striking high-definition cinematography from frequent Mann collaborator Dante Spinotti. Crisp, blue skies pop
off the screen and nighttime chases and shootouts have an eerie theatricality about them. But until the final third, the film maintains a low-key, steady pace when it should be percolating with unbearable suspense. It makes you wonder why Mann would hold back. Dramatic restraint is certainly preferable to a gratuitous onslaught, but “Public Enemies’’ often borders on boring.
All the glamour The director of “Heat’’ and “The Insider’’ has said he was fascinated by bank robber John Dillinger – played by Johnny Depp – not just as a daring criminal but as the hero he be-
came for regular people, folks who blamed the banks for their financial troubles during the Depression. Dillinger robbed those very institutions, which felt to them like an act of vigilante justice. But nowhere in “Public Enemies’’ will you find that sentiment explored or even hinted at. Mann doesn’t depict the poverty or desperation of the time; Dillinger spends his time in cars, banks and glamorous haunts with slick cohorts. Mann romanticises him, rather than presenting a complete picture including whatever wildness or darkness might have existed inside him and driven him. > > AT T H E C I N E M A “Public Enemies” opened in theatres yesterday.
Pongsak “Aof” Rattanapong leads “Academy Fantasia” winners in the “Friendship Concert” on Sunday at 7 at the Swan Theatre opposite Town In Town on Rama IX Road. Winners from the previous five seasons will include Jumjim, Namtal, Jean, Mam and Zee-nam. Tickets are Bt1,000 at www.WeBooking.com. Call (02) 900 9999.
End of the world Drought, wildfires, floods and cyclones are frightening artist Yuree Kensaku, who thinks global warming is the cause of these ever-so-fierce natural disasters. “Sweet with Mr Fan”, until August 23 at the 100 Tonson Gallery, reflects on seemingly unavoidable climate change. Call (02) 684 1527, (081) 910 9440 or visit www.100Tonson Gallery.com.
Face with no name Australian artist Godwin Bradbeer makes his Thailand debut with “Portraits in Exile” at the Ardel Gallery of Modern Art in Thonburi’s Talingchan district until August 20. The drawings are inspired by the artist’s preoccupation with the frontal gaze of an anonymous person, ambiguous in its description in terms of sex, race, age and character. Call (02) 422 2092 or click www.ArdelGallery.com.
Yuree Kensaku offers her frightening reflections on climate change in ‘Sweet with Mr Fan’ at the 100 Tonson Gallery.
8
ENTERTAINMENT
Friday, July 24, 2009
DAILY XPRESS
T H E AT R E P R E V I E W
Buddies to the bitter end A new comedy examines the friendship that develops between two women wanting to end it all By Pawit Mahasarinand S P E C I A L T O D A I LY X P R E S S
ctress, playwright, director, producer and co-founder of the physical theatre troupe BFloor Jarunun “Jaa” Phantachat took leave from the group to work on a play, “Suicide Buddy”. It tells the tale of two women, Vijan and Jane, both of them contemplating suicide and who meet by chance at a restaurant. An extraordinary relationship develops, which gives them a chance to reconsider their decisions. “With the present economic situation, I feel many people would see suicide as a good way out of their problems,” says Jaa. “Yet, the more I work on this play, the less it has to do with the economy. “Vijan’s view is that she has the right to end her life, just like she has the right to live any way she wants. Jane believes Bangkok will soon be completely flooded, so whether she dies now or later doesn’t make much difference.
COURTESY OF JARUNUN PHANTACHAT
A
“Does this sound absurd to you?” Jaa asks, her voice full of laughter. “By the way, the audience will laugh: This play is a not
a tragedy.” Jaa has been working with two relatively new faces on her comedy. She wrote a rough draft of the script and then the three worked through it scene by scene, with the actresses making suggestions and Jaa scribbling the adjustments. “It’s more like a record of our collaborative work, so my role as of the director is not conventional in the sense of interpreting the play then suggesting what they should do on stage.” Jane is performed by Suwanna Promtangtrakul, who attended Naked Masks Group’s workshops, and worked with Jaa last year on B-Floor’s “The Other Land”. Portraying Vijan is Minta Bhanaparin, who was trained by Theatre 8X8’s Embryo Programme. The venue is the second floor of a restaurant on Phra Athit Road where a few plays were staged last November as part of the Bangkok Theatre Festival. The owner, stage actor Kriengkrai Fookasem, hopes to make it another small venue for plays all year round, not just in November, and without any group affiliation.
XTRA >> “Suicide Buddy” is at Sangkhom Niyom on Phra Athit Road, across from Phra Sumen Fort, from tomorrow to next Friday. >> Showtime is 8pm. >> Tickets are Bt200 inclusive of one drink. Call (086) 900 2036 or (081) 413 7558 for reservation.
Friday, July 24, 2009
AFTER DARK
DAILY XPRESS
9
clubscene Hed Kandi Tonight Q Bar Sukhumvit Soi 11 (BTS: Nana) (02) 252 3274; www.QBarBangkok.com Dress code; ID
Hed Kandi’s Thailand tour ends tonight with house DJ Dean Rigg and percussionist Dean Oram bidding farewell to the fans. Entry with two drinks is Bt800.
Crank’d Tonight Old Skool Ekamai, between Sois 12 and 14 www.oldskoolbangkok.com
Special Friday freestyle night includes music from The Prodigy, Chemical Brothers, Propellerheads and The Crystal Method. Buy one, get one free all night.
Deep into D’Void One of the geniuses of European house brings ‘Diabla’ and more to Club 808
Of which of your creations are you most proud?
By Manta Klangboonkrong D A I LY X P R E S S
F
or those who breathe, eat and poop house music, Funk D’Void is definitely one of the most respected house DJs and producers on the European scene. Since his breakthrough album in the mid-’90s, D’Void has still remained at the forefront of the global electronic scene. From basements to festivals, he’s provided the soundtracks to the nights of a thousand dances. Coming to Bangkok for the first time, the DJ found a few minutes to chat with us.
I think “Diabla”: I felt I’d crafted it well.
Is it necessary to take a DJ class to become a professional? Not at all – I taught myself through the love of music, and these days software can help you achieve the required mixing skills. But for me, it’s always been about the selection of the tracks.
What inspired you to become a DJ? I loved the ’80s synth-pop sound as a kid, like the Eurythmics and Human League.
Tomorrow 808 RCA, Zone C, (02) 203 1043; www.808Bangkok.com
Dress up and party like a rock star from the ’80s to the sounds of Run DMC, Beastie Boys, Kool & The Gang and more. Entry with a drink is Bt300; proceeds go to charity.
Club AMFAB #001 Tomorrow Diva Sukhumvit Soi 11 (BTS: Nana) (02) 255 1005; www.DivaBangkok.net
Move it indoors and pump it up with DJs Luko and Rory Breaker’s electro and hip-hop sets. Free entry, but it’s Bt100 after 11pm.
Niteshift: Why study?
What’s up? I’m working on the new Francois Dubois collaboration with Paulo Boghosian and Pedro Galante from Brazil, a new remix for the Teardrop label, a new release on Urbantorque Records and a couple of remixes.
Fourplay Party
Then I moved on to early hip-hop and Chicago house, but it really was Detroit techno from the late ’80s that made me want to become a DJ. I have Derrick May to thank for that.
Who’s your idol? Laurent Garnier: He has stayed true to his roots and is the perfect gentleman. I also respect Danny Howells the same way.
How has the scene evolved since you started out? It’s had its ups and downs over the years, and the music genres always repeat themselves every five to 10 years or so. The sound of 2001 is coming back – the house sound – and the new generation is discovering it. There’s no musical revolution anymore, unfortunately, like the acid house scene in the late ’80s.
XTRA S I M P LY D ’ V I N E >> Funk D’Void is performing
at 808 tonight. >> The club is on RCA in Zone C and is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9pm to 2am. Call (02) 203 1043 or hi-hop over to www.808Bangkok. com.
Wednesday, July 29 Club Culture Sri Ayutthaya Road (BTS: Phya Thai) (02) 642 5499 www.Club-Culture-Bkk.com Dress code; ID
DJs NokAir and Notekadia are setting the roof on fire at Niteshift’s latest party. Free entry. A group of 5 with student ID gets a bottle. Dress code: vulgar whore.
10
ALTERNATIVE / SOHO
Breaking bread The Bangkok chapter of the Long Yang Club holds its monthly dinner with friends tomorrow night at Sphinx Restaurant, Silom Soi 4 from 8. For more details about the group, visit www.LYThailand. com.
The northeastern province of Ubon Ratchathani sets an example in acceptance By Paisarn Likhitpreechakul SPECIAL TO D A I LY X P R E S S
AP
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Bruno’s peace pacts Sasha Baron Cohen’s latest character Bruno is an over-thetop gay fashionista whose goal is to become the biggest Austrian celebrity since Hitler. He decides to find a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Among the lines that won’t appear on screen are “Your conflict is not so bad. Jennifer-Angelina is worse” and “Vy don’t you Jews and Arabs settle the conflict with a time-share on the land?”
Pakistan’s Supreme Court last Tuesday ordered that transvestites should also benefit from the federal and provincial governments’ financial support schemes. “They are citizens of Pakistan and enjoy the same protection guaranteed under Article 4 (rights of individuals to be dealt with in accordance of law) and Article 9 (security of person) of the Constitution,” the judges ruled.
DAILY XPRESS
A tribute to tolerance
so-ho-t
Pakistan for equality
Friday, July 24, 2009
hat’s the difference between a katoey and the Asean Inter-Governmental Commission on Human Rights? The answer, as every katoey already knows, is that katoeys have teeth but the proposed commission doesn’t. As one of the most oppressed groups throughout Asean, a transgender needs all the teeth she has in order to fight the world’s prejudices and discrimination. Yet, as a body to guarantee equality and non-discrimination for them and everyone else, the commission has no mechanism to address rights violations, as its terms of reference only mention rights promotion but not protection. Of course, katoeys also have backbones and actually believe in who they are, while the commission can
only pay lip service to rights. Civil societies, already light-years ahead, do not need cheerleading but solid commitment from the government, backed up by real actions not mere words, because more often than not rights violations are committed by the government. Our country Thailand is no different. Although our outgoing National Human Rights Commission, and especially commissioner Naiyana Supapeung, has lent support to LGBT groups, governments have continued to ignore, or worse oppress, sexual minorities. The Administrative Court, after 30 months, has yet to rule on the case involving the Defence Ministry’s insulting practice of branding transgenders as “mentally ill” and “psychotic” on their military exemption papers. In the meantime, supreme courts in Nepal and, last week, conservative Pakistan have overtak-
en ours by ruling in favour of equal rights for their “third sex” citizens. That’s why the regional body was considered as a new hope. But despite being late in coming, this commission has a far lower standard than its counterparts around the world. Even the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights has taken up LGBT issues as one of its
concerns. None of that can be foreseen for Asean. In the UN General Assembly last year, no Asean country supported the landmark statement to condemn criminalisation of homosexuality – a disgrace for the region that gave birth to the Yogyakarta Principles. That’s unlikely to change anytime soon. As long as Asean’s infamous principle of non-interference is still in place, Asean will hardly amount to anything other than business as usual, while its rights body – until it’s independent, accountable and effective – risks being seen not as protection mechanism for its people but collusion to shield governments from international scrutiny. Being toothless may be appropriate for human babies, but it’s not a virtue of a human-rights watchdog. Share idea on gay issues at asiantrekker@yahoo.com.
Friday, July 24, 2009
THE SCREEN 11
DAILY XPRESS
“HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCE” earned US$158 million last week, open-
TO SEE
ing as the No 1 movie in North America.
don’t miss!
April Bride hnny emies Public En cts this glamourised tale weritJoh hJon Dillinger. nn dire nk robb Michael Ma as the charismatic ba him. Marion g h catching in it rr w d e sk ta Depp sta n a ale is the m Christian B ★★ ★ . rs a st o Cotillard als
Week of Siam “Way Back Into Love” is the theme of what’s now the closing programme of the Week of Siam series at House cinema on RCA. Today’s movies are 1996’s “Koo Kam 2” (“Sunset at Chao Praya 2” by Ajaan Banjong Kosanwat at 1, 1982’s “Taeng Gaap Ngaan” (“Work and Marriage”) by Pairat Kasiwat at 4, and 1980’s “Roi Tai” (“Plough In”) by Amnuay Kalasnimi at 7. Visit www.HouseRama.com.
Kikujiro Takeshi Kitano directs and stars in this 1999 comedy about a shiftless man who is tasked by townspeople with accompanying a boy on an epic journey.At
6.30 tonight with Thai subtitles only at the Japan Foundation. Call (02) 260 8560-4 or visit www.JFBKK.or.th.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince The evil Lord Voldemort tightens his grip, escalating the peril for Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) and his best pals, Hermione (Emma Watson) and Ron (Rupert Grint) who are all dabbling in romance. Opening scenes in 3-D at IMAX. ★★★
Cape No 7 This hit Taiwanese romantic comedy is about a failed rock singer turned mailman and a
A young woman (N cancer diagnosis ana Eikura) conceals her fatal breastfrom her boyfrie nd (Eita Nagay when he finds ou ama). But t, he plans an el aborate wedding ny, even though she has just on ceremoe month to live. with English an In Japanese d Thai su btitles at Ape x.
Japanese model who form a ragtag band of townspeople for a beach resort’s pop concert. In Mandarin with English and Thai subtitles at House.
The Secret of Moonacre A 13-year-old girl (Dakota Blue Richards ) discovers that she is the only hope for banishing an ancient curse from a magical kingdom. ★★
Cheri Michelle Pfeiffer stars in this romance set in 1920s Paris as a courtesan who educates a young man in the ways of love. Rupert Friend and Kathy Bates also star. At the Lido. ★★★
Wongkamlao Petchtai “Mum Jokmok” Wongkamlao directs and stars in this parody of soap operas and high society. With English subtitles in some cinemas. ★★★★
Departures An unemployed musician finds a new calling in a taboo profession. In Japanese with English and Thai subtitles at Apex and House. ★★★★
Nymph
Laz Diaz Retrospective The two-hour rough cut of “Heremias Book II” starts “Death in the Land of Melancholia: Lav Diaz Retrospective inThailand”. next Friday at 4 at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. Diaz himself will be in town for a talk afterward. At noon on August 1 at BACC it’s one of Diaz’s characteristically lengthy works – the seven-and-ahalf-hour “Melancholia”. On August 2 at Bangkok Code on South Sathorn Road, it’s the nine-hour “Death in the Land of Encantos”. Visit Bit.ly/diazretro or e-mail filmsick@gmail.com.
on tv
A dysfunctional marriage completely pulls apart when the husband falls in love with a tree. At House with English subtitles. ★★★★
Apex Lido: (02) 252 6498 Siam: (02) 251 3508 Scala: (02) 251 2861
The Mutant Chronicles
Century – The Movie Plaza (02) 247 9940
Thomas Jane stars in this dystopian sci-fi war drama, leading a team of soldiers in a fight against fearsome mutant warriors.
House (02) 641 5177-8
Major Cineplex/EGV Bangkok: (02) 515 5555
Star Movies (TrueVisions), 8pm
Major Hollywood Bangkok: (02) 718 7999
Channel links Paragon Cineplex Bangkok: (02) 129 4635 IMAX: (02) 129 4631
SF cinemas Bangkok: (02) 268 8888
UMG RCA: (02) 641 5913-14
Nee Tam Galileo (Dear Galileo) Cherry (Chutima Theepanat) and Noon (Jarinporn Junkiat) backpack around Europe for a year after one is suspended from university and another is heartbroken. Nithiwat Tharatorn (“Seasons Change”) directs. Ray MacDonald also stars. With English subtitles at some cinemas.
www.NationChannel.com Channel 3 – www.ThaiTV3.com Channel 5 – www.TV5.co.th Channel 7 – www.CH7.com Modernine – www.MCOT.net NBT – TV11.prd.go.th TV Thai – www.ThaiPBS.or.th True – www.TrueVisionsTV.com
12
Close to Home By John McPherson
LEISURE
Pooch Cafe
The Buckets
Adam
Calvin and Hobbes
By Brian Basset
By Paul Gilligan
By Scott Stantis
By Bryan Basset
By Bill Watterson
Comics&Games
Red and Rover
Friday, July 24, 2009 DAILY XPRESS
Friday, July 24, 2009
LEISURE
DAILY XPRESS
Games&YourStars SUDOKU
The last word in
ASTROLOGY
By Eugenia Last
Today’s Birthday: Don’t let your emotions get the better of you. Impatience will be your downfall and positive thoughts and actions your saving grace. Take note of what everyone around you is doing and you will gauge your own performance and possibilities with clarity.
Yesterday’s Puzzle Answer Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.
ARIES *** March 21-April 19 Take charge of your life and follow your dreams. As long as you take action, things will happen. Put time aside for the one you love or, if single, socialise and you will meet someone special. TAURUS ***** April 20-May 20 You can be nice without letting someone walk all over you. Protect your heart and your assets. Your ability to say no will make the difference in how people treat you. Stick to your decision. GEMINI ** May 21-June 20 You cannot give in to emotional blackmail. If someone is giving you an ultimatum, walk away. Don’t let your sensitivity get in the way of an important decision. Put yourself first.
DIFFICULTY RATING ★★★★★
CANCER **** June 21-July 22 Changes at home can make you feel better. Surprise your friends and family by doing things differently. You may like to keep everything the same but sometimes a change can be as good as a rest. LEO *** July 23-Aug. 22 Don’t overreact or you will be considered too hard to deal with. Your finances must be sorted out, debts paid and money owed collected. Keep things simple and don’t overspend.
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY
VIRGO *** Aug. 23-Sept. 22 Sort out any perplexing matter on your own. Sharing your thoughts or personal dilemmas will put you in a vulnerable position. Focus on you and what you can do to rejuvenate yourself. LIBRA *** Sept. 23-Oct. 22 Travel plans should be in the works even if it is just a short trip to visit someone you miss. A hobby or creative project that interests you should get a boost. Your mood will be romantic. SCORPIO **** Oct. 23-Nov. 21 You’ll be your own worst enemy if you pick a fight or are difficult to get along with. Don’t push your plans on others. You must more accommodating if you want to keep things running smoothly. SAGITTARIUS ** Nov. 22-Dec. 21 Avoid money deals with friends or family. The advice from someone with experience may save you losing out on something you want. Problems with love can be expected.
Jennifer Lopez
Jazz pianist Billy Taylor is 88 Actor John Aniston is 76. Actor Chris Sarandon is 67. Actor Michael Richards is 60. Actress Lynda Carter is 58. Actress-singer Jennifer Lopez is 40. Actor Eric Szmanda is 34. Actress Rose Byrne is 30. Actress Summer Glau is 28. Actress Elisabeth Moss is 27. Actress Anna Paquin is 27. TV personality Bindi Irwin is 11.
CAPRICORN ***** Dec. 22-Jan. 19 Focus on home and family. You don’t need to form a partnership to get things done. Keep things simple and you will come out on top. Say no if someone asks for financial help. AQUARIUS *** Jan. 20-Feb. 18 Re-evaluate a partnership you are involved in. You have to strive for equality or move on. Discuss your plans and you will soon find out who is with you. This is not the time to show uncertainty. PISCES *** Feb. 19-March 20 Take a very direct and determined approach and follow through with your plans. Someone who doesn’t like what you are will confront you. Make sure you have thought matters through.
13
Vichitbhan Palmoil Group is one of leading Palmoil Crushing Mills in Thailand. Now we are Expanding into green energy sector. We invite you to join the industry leader in the following position:
Assistance Finance and Accounting Manager
Assistance Human Resources Manager
Environmental Engineer / Supervisor
• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Accounting, Finance or related, with CPA a strong plus • Experience in a management role with complex financial environment, specifically in manufacturing and consolidation accounting, financial accounting, foreign currency transactions, internal and external reporting, cash management, inventory accounting and financial systems • Ability to meet multi task and tight deadlines • Outgoing personality with excellent command of spoken and written English • Experience with BOI projects and familiar with import/export transactions will be an advantage
• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Political Science, Business Administration, Human Resource Management or related • Minimum of 3 years of progressive, generalist HR related positions that includes start up with a medium to large manufacturing corporation • Experiences in setting up HR programs compliant with Thai Labor requirements • Must have at least 1 year in a supervisory capacity and demonstrate proficiency in computer utilization • Excellent in English communication skills, both written and spoken
• Bachelor’s Degree or Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering or other related field of sciences • Minimum 2 years experiences in Waste water management, Biogas production plant or biogas designing consultant firm or Environmental engineer. Experience in biogas operation will be an advantage • Strong problem solving and analytical skills • Able to work full time in Chumporn province • Well developed interpersonal skill, good relationship, highly responsible and ability to work under pressure and ability to lead and manage a team • Knowledge with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint and AutoCAD would be advantage • Good command of spoken and written English and computer literacy are more advantage
Production Engineer
• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical / Industrial Engineering or other related engineering field. Or Master’s Degree in Thermal Engineering. • Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Accounting, High Technical Vocational Diploma in the field of Finance or related mechanical with continues on Bachelor Degree also • 0-3 years experience with complex financial acceptable environment, financial accounting, foreign currency • Minimum 2 years experiences in Industrial transactions, cash management, financial systems PC literate submit your application letter, resume with Engineering, Production processes control, • Strong analytical and technical skills with Productivity improvement or Productivity maintenance your salary history to: demonstrated experience in the area of budget control in manufacturing processes. Experience in palm oil and reporting process will be an advantage Vichitbhan Palmoil Company Limited • Ability to meet multi task and tight deadlines • Strong problem solving and analytical skills 2044 Phetburi Extention Road, Bangkapi, • Outgoing personality with excellent command of • Able to work full time in Chumporn province Huaykwang, Bangkok 10320, Thailand. spoken and written English • Well developed interpersonal skill, good relationship, Tel. +66(0) 23144101-5 ext. 411, 419 highly responsible and ability to work under pressure and ability to lead and manage a team Fax. +66(0) 23184276 or • «ÿ≤‘ª√‘≠≠“µ√’ “¢“°“√‡ß‘π À√◊Õ°ÆÀ¡“¬ À√◊Õ “¢“Õ◊Ëπ∑’ˇ°’ˬ«¢âÕß • Knowledge with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint E-mail: vithaya@vcbgroup.com or • ¡’ª√– ∫°“√≥å¥â“π°“√‡ß‘π 0-1 ªï and AutoCAD would be advantage E-mail: apicha@vcbpalmoil.com • ¡’§«“¡√Ÿ‡â °’¬Ë «°—∫ —≠≠“∑“ߥâ“π°“√‡ß‘π • Good command of spoken and written English • “¡“√∂ ◊ÕË “√¿“…“Õ—ß°ƒ…‰¥â¥’ and computer literacy are more advantage
Finance Officer
µ”·Àπàß : ‡®â“Àπâ“∑’æË ∏‘ °’ “√°“√‡ß‘π
JTC Insight Ltd. Preferred candidate are expected to be : Multibax Public Co., Ltd. (MBAX), a listed company in SET/MAI, is a world class producer and exporter of HDPE and LDPE bags and other premium polymer bags good for biodegradable, reclosable zip, food, fruits and vegetables, trash and other applications. Our facilities locate in Lam Chabang Industrial Estate (Export Zone) and we are now looking for competent persons to join our team to support the growth and expansion of the business. Applications are invited for the following positions:
Overseas Account Manager ● ● ● ● ● ●
Bachelor's degree in business related field, MBA is a plus. At least 3-5 year experience in international market. Good command of English, both written and spoken, other language is a plus. Able to work and travel independently with least supervision. Strong leadership and hands on. Male/Female, 28-35 years of age. Working location is in Bangkok Sales office.
Quality Assurance Manager ● ● ● ● ● ●
Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Food Science or related field. 5-8 years experience in quality management. Strong leadership, hard working personality. Able to work in Sriracha, Chonburi. English communication skill is a must. Computer literate. Working location is in Lam Chabang, Sriracha plant.
Deputy Chief Production Engineer ● ● ● ● ●
Bachelor's degree in Engineering Science. 5 years experience in managerial level with proven record. Strong leadership, analytical and problem solving skills. Computer literate. Workable English communication skill. Working location is in Lam Chabang, Sriracha plant.
We offer attractive remuneration package, commensurate with the experiences and qualifications. For those who are interested, please submit your application letter stating your experience and achievement so far, your CV in detail with recent photo, within June 30, 2009, to:
1. Audit Supervisor 2. Auditor Assistant The candidates should be : - Thai national, female, age 23-30 - Bachelor's degree in Accounting - At lease 2 year work experience in audit work
- Good command of English and computer literate - Able to work independently with initiative and high team spirit
Interested candidates please sendyour application, resume and recent Photo to :
JTC Insight Ltd. 191 Silom Complex Building, 20 thfl.,Silom Rd, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel : 02-6321241 E-mail : jtc_aal@ksc.th.com
1. Senior Engineer • Male, age over 25 years • Fluent in English speaking and writing • At least 2 years experience in manufacturing of transformers • Experience in AutoCAD and also conducting of engineering documentation work • ESL or TOEFL score at least 550 required
2. Engineer
• Male, age over 25 years • English reading and writing • At least 1 year experience in manufacturing of transformers • Experience in AutoCAD and also conducting of engineering documentation work
HR Department
Multibax Public Company Limited 211 Moo3, Toong Sukhla, Sriracha, Chonburi 20230 Or e-mail to: info@multibax.com Visit our website for further info at: www.multibax.com Only short listed candidates will be contacted.
KOHSEL (Thailand) Co., Ltd. 1/1 Moo 1, Petkasem Rd., T. Donkrabueng A. Photharam, Ratchaburi 70120 Phone: 02 3914011-2, 032 351805-7 Fax: 032-389231
Forbest Properties Co., Ltd.
Tel. 02-287-4568-70, 677-5550 / www.fbprop.com nd
Expert in 2 hand houses in the city. Property investment consulting service.
No.28512-025/041
Nichdathani, Samakki Rd. Chaengwattana, 2-storey house 800 sq.w., 4 brs., 5 bths., European kit., pool, full facilities,
Sell@69.9 MB. d! nte
Muban Panya, Pattanakarn 30 439 sq.w. detached house 6 brs., 10 bths., pool Bavarian style, ready to move in, good atmosphere
Sell@60 MB.
Taksin 41 Rd.
cou
Dis
No.29006-058/027
No.28714-001/191
Theparak Rd. km.7 6-storey apartment, 116 rooms 205 sq.w., keycard system, CCTV, cable, good income 2-300K/month from 32 MB.
Sell@29 MB.
No.29054-004
Laddarom Rama V Rd. Nakorn In 2-storey house 166 sq.w.
No.28272-001/191
Õ —ßÀ“√‘¡∑√—æ¬å
No.29029-006
Discounted!
Rama II km.12 Bangkradi
3 brs., 3 bths., 4 a/c, brand 2-storey house, 99 sq.w., 3 brs., new, w/ guest quarter, 3 bths. w/ 3-storey, 18-room dormitory convenient transport fully occupied, good condition Sell@13.8 MB. Sell@8.5 MB.
Prachacheun Rd. Soi Nomjit
3-storey townhouse, Land 205 sq.w. 20 sq.w., 3 brs., 2 bths. 20 m. wide, 39 m. deep fully furnished, located in w/ factory license, near city's heart, convenient Lotus, Bansue Dist. Office, brown zone, can build transport high-rise building
Sell@3.5 MB.
BROKER ¡“™‘° ¡“§¡π“¬Àπâ“
Sell@16 No.27224-011 MB.
Phetkasem 69 Land+building 13 rai 175 sq.w. 57 m. wide, 300 m. deep, only 500 m. from main road, near community, easy access to Ekachai Rd., suitable for allotted house project
from 21,000 Baht/sq.w.
Sell@19,000 Baht/sq.w.
No.27301-006
COURSE MEMBERSHIP EXCHANGE CENTRE THE FIRST IN THAILAND Tel: 081-5555888, 081-5555999 02-259-0980-5 www.thaigolfcentre.com
BUY 1.Bangpra International 2.Krungthep Kreetha 1,700,000 3.Muang Ake 1 350,000 4.Bangpakong Riverside 5.Tanya Thanee 140,000 6.Spring Field -
SELL 145,000 185,000 150,000 370,000
∫®°.∑äÕª‚∫√°‡°Õ√å
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24 GAMES
Friday, July 24, 2009
THE SPORT briefly
DAILY XPRESS
6-2 Manny Ramirez hits a tie-breaking pinch-hit grand slam to give Los Angeles a win over Cincinnati.
FOOTBALL
Thaworn in joint lead Thai star Thaworn Wiratchant, Finland’s Pasi Purhonen and Australians Marcus Both and Darren Beck fired six-under-par 66s to share the first-round lead at the Indonesia President Invitational yesterday. The evergreen Thaworn sank three birdies from close range to extend a recent revival in form which has seen him win three smaller tournaments across the region. “During the first six months of the year, I was doing everything the same as before but nothing happened for me. But recently, the putts started to roll in and things began to happen again,” said the 10-time Asian Tour winner. – AFP
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson, left, and Wayne Rooney during a training session in Seoul yesterday.
Samuel Eto’o has agreed terms for a move to Inter Milan, according to his agent Jose Maria Mesalles. Mesalles emerged from two hours of meetings with Inter representatives to tell the waiting press that a deal had been agreed, which was later confirmed by Inter’s transfer specialist Marco Branca. “The only problem is his loyalty bonus with Barcelona,” said Mesalles. Eto’o is to arrive in Milan on either Monday or Tuesday to put pen to paper. - AFP
Real offer Heinze to Marseille Real Madrid are trying to offload Argentine defender Gabriel Heinze to Marseille. The clubs had essentially reached agreement “but the most difficult bit remains – to convince the player, who wants more salary.” Meanwhile, Real Madrid are annoyed at unwanted striker Klaas Jan Huntelaar finally turning down a lucrative offer from VfB Stuttgart.
AP
Eto’o signs Inter Milan deal
JUST GO AHEAD Manager Ferguson can splash the cash, says Manchester United chiefs AFP, London
M
anchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been told he can spend up to £60 million on new players. Ferguson has been relatively quiet in the transfer market since the end of the last season despite losing Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez. The Scot paid £16 million for Wigan’s Antonio Valencia, £3 million for Bordeaux starlet Gabriel Obertan and landed Michael Owen on a free transfer from Newcastle before insisting he wouldn’t be making any more signings. That angered some United fans, who claim United’s owners, the Glazer family, have
weakened the club’s financial position by amassing huge debts when they bought the Premier League champions. Glazer family spokesman Tehsin Nayani conceded that United have to fund interest payments of £43.3 million a year to service the £750 million loan used to buy the club. But he insists their financial position remains healthy enough for Ferguson to spend big on players if he wants. “We do have debt service and carry a significant amount of debt,” Nayani told the Sun. “But our interest payments are around £43.3 million a year while our operating profit was £80 million topped by an extra
£25 million from transfer profits. “So we are talking about a net amount of about £60 million. That’s cash that can be reinvested in the squad, doing up the toilets or new carpets. “The point is there is money coming into United. One thing that is certain, because of globalisation and the growing middle classes in India and the Far East, the appeal of football is set to grow. We are part of that story.” United have been criticised over their failure to make a big signing while neighbours rivals Manchester City have been splashing the cash with a host of expensive new arrivals. Yet Nayani claims Ferguson is selective regarding his transfer policy and that he will not pay over-the-odds or fund excessive salaries.
England mull game in Thailand Fabio Capello may bring England to Thailand to play a game in the build-up to next year’s World Cup in South Africa, officials said yesterday. Andy Anson, the chief executive of England’s bid team for the 2018 World Cup, said Thailand – coached by former Everton and England midfielder Peter Reid – had extended an invitation and it was being considered. “Ultimately that is Fabio Capello’s decision – he is the one who decides what type of teams England need to play against. But I think it would be fantastic to see England here.”
Friday, July 24, 2009
THE SPORT 25
DAILY XPRESS
FOOTBALL
CRISIS IN RED ARMY Manager Benitez facing difficult period at Liverpool AFP, Singapore
R
afael Benitez is facing a mini crisis at Liverpool with no wins in three pre-season games, a captain on trial for affray and his top midfield duo looking to leave the club. It is not ideal preparation for a team that senses its best chance to win the League title in 20 years. They arrived in Singapore yesterday after a disappointing 1-1 draw against Thailand on Wednesday evening following a 0-0 draw with St Gallen of Switzerland and a 1-0 loss to Rapid Vienna. In the Thailand match a second-half strike by Sutee Suksomkit cancelled out an early opener from Ryan Babel but there was little goalmouth action to excite the crowd, with Liverpool looking decidedly rusty. They are clearly missing the talismanic Steven Gerrard, who is in court back home on charges of affray stemming from a nightclub incident last December. It didn’t get any better for manager Benitez, with defender Martin Skrtel (hamstring) and young Moroccan forward Nabil El Zhar (knee) injured in the Thailand match, with medical staff assessing how badly they have been hurt. “They were not the best conditions in Bangkok and the worst thing was to lose Skrtel and El Zhar,” said Benitez. “The idea of the game was to improve match fitness. So to
,,
Rafa Benitez has unsettled players in Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano, who want to get out. lose two players is bad news.” The unsettled Xabi Alonso sat out the game with an ankle injury. The Spanish international has not failed to hide his desire to join Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka at Real Madrid while Chelsea have also expressed an interest in signing him. Meanwhile, Javier Mascherano’s agent has been quoted by South American media as saying the player was fed up with life in England and wanted to move to Barcelona. Benitez has made clear he wants both to stay but it is unsettling for the team. Vice-captain Jamie Carragher is hoping Rafa Benitez for a swift end to the Alonso saga at least. is that he is a top player and you “The feeling within the squad do not want to lose your top
THEY WERE NOT THE BEST CONDITIONS IN BANGKOK AND THE WORST THING WAS TO LOSE SKRTEL AND EL ZHAR.
players, and hopefully it can be sorted out as soon as possible,” said Carragher. “If the club thinks it is in their best interests [for him to move] sometimes you have to do what they think is best. “We all go through these situations – well, hopefully not me – and as I said, I just hope it gets sorted out.” A consolation for Benitez is that striker Fernando Torres is settled. Torres enjoyed the experience in Bangkok. “It was fantastic to hear them singing and chanting for me when I came on,” he said. “It is a wonderful experience to come away to places like Asia with Liverpool and see the fans so pleased to see us.”
Rafa plays down stars move threats Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez played down reports yesterday that Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano are on the verge of leaving the club. Alonso has been tipped to join new signings Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka at Real Madrid and Spanish media on Thursday said the move was imminent with a new offer on the table. Mascherano has been linked with a move to Barcelona. But Benitez, who has refused to budge on his asking price of US$50 million for Alonso, said the player was still part of the team. “Alonso is here and he will enjoy the weather and the fans and the journalists,” he said after their arrival in Singapore on their pre-season tour of Asia. He is ready and can play.” The 27-year-old was expected to have talks with Benitez. Reports have also surfaced over the past few days suggesting midfielder Mascherano, from Argentina, was fed up with life in England and wanted to move to Barcelona. South American websites quoted his agent Walter Tamer as saying: “Barcelona is the easiest deal to set up as Javier wants to go to Spain. He is tired of life in England.” Benitez said there had been no developments. “It’s much the same situation, he knows our ideas. He’s been working very hard and he’s a very important player for us.” Liverpool take on the Singapore national team on Sunday.
26
THE SPORT
Friday, July 24, 2009
CRICKET
LANKA FACE DEFEAT Pakistan eye face-saving victory in the final Test A F P , Colombo
akistan remained on course to win the third and final cricket Test against Sri Lanka after denting the home team’s chase of a world record target yesterday. Sri Lanka, set an improbable 492 to sweep the series 3-0 after they had won the first two Tests, were 183-3 in their second knock at stumps on the fourth day at the Sinhalese sports club. When play begins on the fifth day for the first time in the series – the first Test ended in four days and the second in three – Pakistan will need seven wickets and Sri Lanka a further 309 runs in 90 overs. No team has scored 492 runs in the fourth innings to win a Test match. The highest successful chase so far is 418-7 by the West Indies against Australia in Antigua in 2003.
EPA
P
Sri Lankan cricketer Tharanga Paranavitana plays a shot yesterday. Sri Lanka were given a minimum of 150 overs to get the runs after Pakistan declared their second innings at 425-9 soon after lunch with former captain Shoaib Malik making 134. Sri Lankan openers Malinda Warnapura and Tharanga Paranavitana put on 83 for the first wicket in 25 overs, their best partnership of the series, to raise visions of a history-defying feat.
But the fall of three wickets in the final session set Sri Lanka back even as skipper Kumar Sangakkara returned unbeaten on 50, having surpassed the 7,000-run mark in his 83rd Test on the way. Thilan Samaraweera was the other batsman at the crease on 20.
Langer overtakes Bradman Justin Langer became the highest scoring Australian of all
time in first-class cricket yesterday playing for Somerset against Worcester. The 38-year-old former Test opener, unbeaten on 89 overnight, needed six runs to pass Don Bradman’s career total of 28,067 and reached the new mark with a boundary off countryman Matt Mason at New Road. Mason finally got him out for 107, meaning the new record is 28,080. In his 18th year, the former Western Australia opener reached the milestone in his 615th innings. Bradman, considered the greatest batsman of all time, made his in 338 between 1927 and ‘49. Meanwhile, Andrew Flintoff fears Kevin Pietersen’s absence for the remaining three Tests against Australia could wreck England’s chances of regaining the Ashes. “He’s a massive influence on our team so it’s going to make it tougher for us – but he’s been in pain,” Flintoff said. “He will be greatly missed and we wish him well.”
DAILY XPRESS
Brazil blast Thailand D A I LY X P R E S S
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hailand opened their FIBA Women’s Under19 World Championship campaign with a comprehensive 104-45 defeat to Brazil in the Group B fixture yesterday at the ThaiJapan Youth Welfare Centre. Thailand, who are in the top-flight tournament for the first time by virtue of being the hosts, were handed a basketball lesson by the Brazilians. The South America champions were better than the home girls, tactically and technically, by a mile. The Thais appeared relieved when the final whistle went off as it meant their torment had ended. “Our girls tried their best. But we were no match for them. We’re inferior to them, physically and technically. We also have less experience of competing in the world-class tournament. We looked nervous,” said Thai coach Thongchai Vatanasakdakul.
Friday, July 24, 2009
THE SPORT 27
DAILY XPRESS
BADMINTON
BRILLIANT BOONSAK
Kitinan Sanguansak
Thai overcomes flu to defeat South Korean Lerpong Amsa-ngiam DAILY XPRESS
DAILY XPRESS
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half-fit Boonsak Ponsana had to rely on his experience to move past an inspired Han Ki Hoon of South Korea 21-9 20-22 21-10 in the third round of the SCG Thailand Grand Prix Gold at the Nimibutr Gymnasium yesterday. The third seed, who got out of hospital on Friday after suffering from flu for four days, wasted two match points at 20-18 in the second game before improving his concentration to dominate the decider and advanced to the quarter-finals. He admitted that he almost withdrew from the tournament because of lack of preparations. “I just made up my mind to give it a try on Wednesday. I almost fainted during training on Tuesday and tried to eat and
Ratchapol ill with flu
Boonsak Ponsana serves during his match yesterday. sleep well from then on. I felt so much better the next day and didn’t want to miss a home tournament,’’ said the 2004 champion. “The doctor said it was a good sign that I could last three games. Actually I was trying to end it in two but I was
in a great hurry and I missed some shots,’’ said Thailand’s main hope who next faces Hong Kong’s Chan Yun Lung. With the victory, Boonsak joined compatriots Thanongsak Saensomboonsuk and Pakkawat Vilailak in the final eight. Top seed Wong Choong
Hann of Malaysia had no problem tackling Rho Ye Wook of South Korea 21-12 21-18 while sixth seed Yun Hu of Hong Kong needed three games to dismiss South Korean Wan HoPark 19-21 21-19 21-8. In the women’s singles second round, third seed Salakjit Ponsana was extended to three games before advancing past Japan’s Mizuho Muramatsu 21-14 13-21 21-11. Local Sapsiree Taerattanachai upset eighth seed Soo Young-jang of South Korea 21-19 21-9 while another Thai Nitchaon Jindapol advanced with a straight-game 21-12 21-11 win over Hong Kong’s Kwan Yi-mong. But local sixth seed Porntip Buranaprasertsuk crashed out at the hands of South Korea’s Seung Hee-bae, who prevailed 21-16 21-15. In the mixed doubles second round, top duo Sudket Prapakamol and Saralee Thoungthongkam easily picked off Ni pitphon Phuangphuapet and Artima Serithammarak 21-15 21-16.
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nooker star Ratchapol Pu-Ob-Orm, better known as James Wattana, is suspected to be suffering from type-A (H1N1) flu after showing symptoms of the illness. On Wednesday, the 39-year-old Ratchapol was due to have a check-up at Phyathai 3 hospital before travelling to England to play in the World Snooker Main Tour. However, he failed to show up after suddenly falling sick. Billiards Sports Association of Thailand vice-president Sakda Rattanasuban said Ratchapol became ill with symptoms of the deadly flu. “I have to apologise for Ratchapol’s absence. He phoned and told me that he was suffering from a sore throat and had fever, which kept him in his bed. It might be because of a change in the weather over the past few days that made him ill.”