01-04-2016 by The Phuket News

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Beach water turning brown is not wastewater, say officials

overnment water experts are adamant that the beach water in Patong turning brown this past week was not related to untreated wastewater pumped directly into the bay. Instead, they say it was nothing more than a plankton bloom brought on by high temperatures. Officials from the Phuket Marine Biological Centre (PMBC) rushed

to collect water samples from four locations at Patong Beach on March 25 after receiving complaints that the water had turned brown and that bathers were complaining of itching and breaking out into skin rashes. Samples were collected from the Pakbang Canal outflow at the southern end of the beach, near the Police Box at the end of Bangla Rd and at Loma Park. “The dissolved oxygen (DO) and pH levels are totally safe,” PMBC

SPORT Chief Somkiat Khokiattiwong told The Phuket News on Wednesday (Mar 30). “The change in the colour of the water was due to a bloom in Chaetoceros plankton. This type of plankton often blooms near shore when the temperature, the air and the sun are right. When it flourishes, the area will benefit, especially small marine animals,” he said. “As for skin rashes, this kind of plankton might be itchy, but it’s not

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A water sample collected at Patong Beach shows the new Andaman hue: brown. Photo: PMBC

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poisonous. This happens every year,” he added. Mr Somkiat gave the water test results as follows: • Pak Bang Canal: Salinity 30, Temp 30ºC, pH 7.55, DO 5.98 • Ruamjai Rd: Salinity 29, Temp 32ºC, pH 7.59, DO 4.17 • Police box (Bangla Rd): Salinity 30, Temp 32ºC, pH 7.80, DO 7.42 • Chalermprakiat Rd: Salinity 30, Temp 30ºC, pH 7.67, DO 5.70 Asked whether the plankton...

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Ultraman sets off on his ‘Swim Around Phuket’

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Immigration chief assures no re-entry ban for overstays for kids > page 5

Expats’ data exposed Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

Security personnel with assault rifles accompanied officials.

Big guns help to clear way A ROA D AC RO S S private land leading to Laem Nga Beach in Rassada was opened on Tuesday (Mar 29) after military personnel with assault rifles looked on while a delegation of officials held discussions with the land owner’s legal representative. Up until Monday, the road had been blocked off by a barrier and barbed wire. The unnamed road is open temporarily while officials investigate why the Department of Rural Roads built it across 199 rai of private land, Phuket Vice Governor Khajornkiet Rakpanichmanee said. “The legal representative from Laem Nga Development Co Ltd told us that the road was closed because it crosses private land, which the owner has never granted public access. “The company has a right to block off roads across its own land. However, I asked the company to give residents temporary access until we conclude our investigation,” he added. The road was blocked off with a barrier after a land survey in 2011, V/Gov Khajornkiet noted. “But the survey that year states that the private land is beside the public road, not overlapping it,” he added. Darawan Naknakhon

he Chief of the Phuket Immigration Office in Phuket Town has assured that private information of expats and tourists on the island remains safe and secure. The assurance by Phuket Immigration Superintendent Col Sunchai Chokkajaykij follows the immigration data breach on Sunday (Mar 27) that saw personal details of thousands of foreign nationals living in Southern Thailand leaked online. The breach revealed passport details of foreigners in the South, and even maps pinpointing where foreigners lived, with flags representing the foreigners’ nationalities. “Our database is secure,” Col Sunchai told The Phuket News on Wednesday (Mar 30). “Expats need not to worry, as our system is not linked

A screenshot of the ‘test’ website exposed to the open internet Sunday (Mar 27) disclosing the personal details of thousands of foreign expats in the South. to the one used by the Immigration Office in Nakhon Sri Thammarat,” he assured. However, Col Sunchai did not elaborate on what information – if any – regarding expats and tourists in Phuket may have been kept – and exposed – by the breached database. Col Sunchai also did not elaborate on what measures his office had taken to prevent

such data breaches of private information stored by Phuket Immigration. The database breached on Sunday, in what the site’s developer admitted on Monday (Mar 28) was a data breach during a test for police, exposed online the names, addresses, professions and passport numbers of more than 2,000 foreigners living in Thailand’s southern

provinces, but mainly those residing in Nakhon Sri Thammarat province. The gaffe was spotted by social media users late on Sunday (Mar 27) when a database appeared online containing the names, addresses, professions and passport numbers of more than 2,000 foreigners living in Thailand’s southern provinces.

The website carried an immigration police seal but used a private Thai web address, not one usually associated with government sites. It was openly available without a password and some industrious users guessed the site’s less-than-secure administration password: 12345. It was taken down early Monday, but not before the site’s existence had gone viral. Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon ordered the removal of the foreigners’ data from the website, defence spokesman Khongcheep Tantravanich said on Monday. The data should not be made public and Gen Prawit ordered its removal as foreigners were now concerned about their safety because their specifics were released to the public, Maj Gen Khongcheep said. Additional reporting by the Bangkok Post.

Patong water tests in the clear Continued from page 1 ...bloom could have been triggered by wastewater released into Patong Bay, Pornsri Suthanarak, the director of the Phuket Regional Environmental Office 15, said, “I do not think wastewater will be released without passing through the Patong Municipality treatment system first.” Asked again, she said, “I have no comment about it.” However, Ms Pornsri offered, “Such algae blooms are most often caused by a combination of large amounts of nutrients in the water along with suitable temperatures for a spike in plankton growth. “We were informed of the incident at Patong Beach and we agree with the PMBC’s findings. Our office conducts water tests only twice a year, but we will step in when we receive special requests.”

A PMBC map showing the water test locations in Patong. Asked of her concerns about wastewater in tourism beach areas such as Patong, Ms Pornsri said, “I am concerned about tourist areas, because of trash, wastewater and other environmental hazards. “We really want people to realise the environment in Phuket is the main tourism attraction of the whole

island.” T he Patong plan k ton bloom follows a sea slug mass death scare at Kamala Beach earlier this month, when black water streaming from a canal across the beach infiltrated the beach water. However, that incident, also investigated by the PMBC, was also described as a “natural phenomenon”.

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Pushed or fell? Police question man after Finnish woman, 19, dies in hotel fall Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

olice are still investigating the death of a 19-year-old Finnish woman who allegedly jumped from the roof of a Patong guesthouse on Monday (Mar 28) after an argument with her boyfriend. Police have yet to rule the incident as suicide. Capt Yingyong Chuykij from Kathu Police received a call from a local resident at 2:15pm who reported that a foreign woman had jumped from the fifth f loor of the Good Dreams Guesthouse in Soi Nanai. Lt Col Ur umpor n Khoondejsumrit from the Phuket Tourist Police and Lt Col Suthichai Tienpo from Kathu Police arrived at the scene with rescue workers to find the body of Ida Maria Bexar, from Kronoby, Finland, lying face down on a neighbouring property’s roof. Capt Yingyong said, “The victim was wearing a T-shirt and short jeans and we found her purse nearby. She had been dead for more than 10 hours

Rescue workers prepare to transport Ms Bexar’s body to Patong Hospital. before her body was found. “Residents heard a noise like something had fallen onto the roof early in the morning, but didn’t pay any attention to it until later when someone spotted the body,” he said. “The body was taken to Patong Hospital for doctors to determine the cause of death. The embassy and her family have been notified,” he added. The victim’s boyfriend,

who police declined to name, said that he and Ms Bexar were staying at Darisa Apartments which is located next to the guesthouse. Capt Yingyong said, “The victim’s boyfriend told us that at around 4am (Monday) he and Ms Bexar had an argument so he left her in the room and came next door to spend the night with his friend at Good Dream Guesthouse.

Patong security guards charged with murder of French tourist THE TWO MEN THOUGHT to be responsible for the death of the French tourist during an altercation in Soi Sansabai on March 23 have both been charged with murder, police announced at the press conference last Friday (Mar 25). Somporn Kakkaew, 33, and Somkit Lemut, 30, were presented to the media at the press conference held at Phuket Provincial Police Station at 11am along with items seized from them by the police including the knife used in the attack and the clothing they wore during the incident. The two were arrested on an arrest warrant issued by Phuket Court two days earlier and along with being charged with murder, they have also been charged with attempted murder and carrying weapon into a public place without a permit. The incident occurred after Somporn allegedly rode his motorcycle into the 24-year-old Frenchman Akim Boukheddouma and his Moroccan friend Said Missoury, 23. @thephuketnews

Somporn Kakkaew (left), 33, and Somkit Lemut, 30, have both been charged with murder. Somporn confessed that after he got off from work, he got into an altercation with the two tourists and the fight broke out between them. Upon seeing the fight going on, his co-worker, Somkit joined him but Somporn decided to use his knife to stab the tourists. Mr Missoury, who also suffered a stab wound, said that Somporn drove his motorbike into him and Mr Boukheddouma while they were walking down the street to go back to their resort. “The three got into an argument and a fight broke out.

Somporn pulled out a knife and stabbed Mr Missoury one time,” said Lt Sineenart Cherdchootrakulthong from Kathu Police. Mr Missoury told police that he ran inside the hotel and heard his friend calling for help. “I turned around and saw him collapse in the road,” he said. Somporn later told police: “Even though Somkit came to help me, I realised I was not going to win the fight because both tourists were stronger than us so I decided to use the weapon.” Eakkapop Thongtub

“He said that he thinks she came to look for him at the guesthouse, then went up to the roof and jumped. He said that maybe she felt he had hurt her feelings so decided to take her own life,” he said. “However, we are investigating to find the truth and will wait for doctors to confirm the cause of death. We have yet to rule this case as suicide,” Capt Yingyong concluded.

PHUKET NEWS

Tsunami drill plays anthem, not sirens ALL 19 TSUNAMI-WARNING towers in Phuket underwent a live test on Wednesday (Mar 30), but instead of the multilanguage tsunami warning and siren, the towers played the national anthem. The “sound check” came as officials carried out a twoday annual emergency drill in Phuket Town, which began on Tuesday. The exercise was a collaborative effort by Phuket Provincial Office, Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), Phuket City Municipality and the Royal Phuket City Hotel. The simulated emergency response and disaster-management drill was based on the scenario of an 8.3-magnitude earthquake striking south of the Nicobar Islands – specifically at Latitude 6.23885 and Longitude 94.59228 – at a depth of 30 kilometres. According to the simulation brief, the underwater earthquake creates a tsunami and building collapse at Royal Phuket City Hotel in Phuket Town. The exercise also included a simulation of a tour boat sinking at Manoh Pier on Koh

Officials urged residents not to panic when the warning towers sounded. Yao Yai island, east of Phuket. “The drill aims to provide extensive emergency evacuation, communication knowledge and skills to officials, rescue workers and volunteers and test all 19 emergency warning towers across the island,” the DDPM Regional Centre 18 reported on Tuesday. “Officials urge residents not to panic when the warning towers sound,” said the notice. As part of the drill, participants this morning attended a natural disaster exhibition and discussed plans for emergency preparedness and this afternoon underwent training. The actual drill was held from 1:30pm to 5pm with the car park at the Royal Phuket City Hotel as the centre of activities.

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Man receives electricity bill for over B400,000

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WICHIT R ESIDENT Boonlerd Nokbanjong was left in disbelief on Monday (Mar 28), after receiving an electricity bill for more than B400,000. “I usually pay between B800 to B1,000 maximum each month, but this month my bill was for B468,182.82. This is insane and impossible,” Mr Boonlerd said. “I had no extra income for the last four to five months so I didn’t turn on the air-con and used only a fan.

“Luckily, when I notified officials at the Phuket Electricity Authority (PEA) they noticed there had been a mistake and agreed to change the amount I owed,” he added. Chief of accounting and processing at the PEA, Chonsorn Chetawan, on Tuesday (Mar 29) presented Mr Boonlerd with a revised bill with a due amount of just over B800. He also apologised for the error made. Mr Chonsorn explained: “Officials who do the meter

reading read an old damaged meter. We were notified by Mr Boonlerd’s relatives that they thought there had been some kind of mistake on the bill so we examined the bill and our records,” he said. “We have rectified the error made and given him the correct bill. He certainly doesn’t have to pay B400,000. “We have also set up a committee to investigate the official responsible for this error to prevent a problem like this in the future,” Mr Chonsorn said. Mr Boonlerd said that he understands that human error does happen, but he has asked officials to pay extra attention to these numeral details before sending a bill to residents. “I don’t want to see anyone have a heart attack if they receive a high monthly bill like this. “Others may not handle the situation well, and I would not have known what to do if my friends and relatives had not helped me,” he said. Eakkapop Thongtub thephuketnews

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No bans for kids

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Immigration chief clarifies rules for minors on overstays Darawan Naknakhon editor@classactmedia.co.th

Sermsakul Klaikaew, Governor of the nationwide Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), inspects the Karon substation. Photo: PEA

he Thailand Immigration Bureau Chief visited Phuket last week to explain the new immigration overstay rules and stressed that officers will strictly enforce the rules to keep bad guys out in a bid to stabilise the country. Immigration Bureau chief Lt Gen Nathathorn Prousoontorn arrived at Boat Lagoon in Koh Kaew on March 25, where he presided over an immigration meeting to promote the stricter punishments rules applying to those who overstay their visas which came into effect March 20. Also in attendance at the meeting were Chief of Immigration Division 6 Maj Gen Nitipong Niemnoy, Phuket Immigration Chief Col Sunchai Chokkajaykij, hotel operators, tour guides, educational institution operators and others. Lt Gen Nathathorn said that the main objective of the meeting was to make sure that everyone understood the new immigration overstay rules, which were issued by the Prime Minister and Interior Ministry on November 27, 2015.

Power-supply boost for southern Phuket

Immigration Bureau Chief Lt Gen Nathathorn Prousoontorn at Boat Lagoon in Koh Kaew. During the meeting Lt Gen Nathathorn said, “After we announced the new rules our records showed that the number of foreigners overstaying in Thailand significantly decreased. “The stats show that in October 2015 we had 810,522 people overstaying their visas, but recent records from this month show that we had 486,947 overstayers. “That’s a 323,575 decrease or 39.92 per cent which is proof that the new rules are effec-

tive and keep the number of overstayers in control.” “As a result, crimes involving foreign criminals also decreased. We are able to separate good guys from bad guys this way and foreigners that come to the Kingdom will always be legal and have the right documents. The rules also promote safety to life and property,” he said. “Officers will strictly enforce the rules and crack down on all overstayers in the Kingdom. However, I must reiterate

Police hunt lone street gunman POLICE ARE HUNTING FOR a gunman who shot dead a 23year-old man in Wichit early on March 24 before speeding away on a motorbike. Wichit Police received a call from Vachira Hospital staff at 4am stating that a man, named as 23-year-old Wisan Khunmanit, who had been admitted to the hospital with a gunshot wound to his chest had died of his injury while being treated in the emergency room. Wichit Police Chief Col Kittipong Klaikaew explained, “We were told that Wisan went

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Police investigate the scene of the street slaying in Moo 3, Wichit. to visit his friend at a home in Moo 9 Wichit at around 3:20am, when he came out of the house a gunman who was

waiting on a Yamaha Fino with no licence plate shot him one time before speeding away. “All we know is that the suspect was wearing a plaid shirt and jeans and that he was wearing a helmet,” he said. “We are investigating into the incident and will question people around the area, maybe someone saw the gunman and can give us a better description. “We believe the victim knew the suspect and may have had an altercation with him prior to the shooting,” added Col Kittipong. Darawan Naknakhon

that these rules do not apply to children under the age of 18. “I encourage all to help us enforce these rules and let foreigners know the rules and regulations including the penalties for overstaying. “I would like to add that the rules will not effect foreigners who reside in Thailand legally, and only focuses on those foreigners that come and stay in the country illegally. This is to prevent international criminals and crime in the country,” he concluded.

THE LONG-AWAITED power substation under construction on the west side of Kata Hill is target to come on stream in June, providing a more stable electrical supply to the high-growth Phuket areas of Kata and Karon, on the west coast. Sermsakul Klaikaew, Governor of the nationwide Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), inspected the Karon substation last Saturday (Mar 26). “Tourism and business growth in this area has been very quick,” he said. “This new substation will help prevent power outages and allow more growth by providing stable power supply.” Construction began in November 2013 with a budget of about B280 million.

“Construction is 95.04% complete and the facility is expected to be online and operational in June this year,” Mr Sermsakul said. “The substation will be able to provide up to 80MW of power to areas including Rawai, Saiyuan, Nai Harn, Kata and Karon,” he added. According to their own records, the Phuket PEA has a total of 196,867 users in the province. By breakdown according to PEA “service areas”, there are 95,269 users in Phuket Town; 52,438 users in Thalang; 17,202 users in Patong; 27,502 users in Chalong; and 4,456 users on Koh Yao, to which the Phuket PEA also provides mains power supply. The Phuket News

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By the numbers

Auction of lucky licence plates to raise B20m The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

Wasinee Isolbusor, 24, and Jutharat Jitnaree, 18, pictured with just some of their seized stash.

Women arrested with kratom, bullets and gun T WO WOM E N W E R E arrested with kratom, bullets and a gun on Monday night (Mar 28) when officials raided a hut where locals allegedly gathered to cook kratom juice to sell to local teens. Siripong Leeprasit, a senior official from Thalang District Office led his team and civil defence volunteers to arrest Ms Wasinee Isolbusor, 24, and Ms Jutharat Jitnaree, 18, at Wasinee’s home next to a klong in Soi Mak Prok Anusorn in Moo 1 Mai Khao. The two were found to be in possession of 1.25 litres of kratom juice, one unregistered .38mm Smith & Wesson pistol, 15 .38mm bullets, 41 .45mm bullets, 857 bundles of fresh kratom leaves in nine bags weighing a total of 43.3 kilos, 62 bottles of cough

syrup among other items. Mr Siripong explained: “The arrests came after we received a tip-off from undercover officers that the suspects were selling drugs to teenagers from a hut next to the klong in the soi next to the Mak Prok branch of 7-Eleven. “We were told that the suspects stocked a lot of fresh kratom leaves at the hut.” Wasinee and Jutharat were taken to Tha Chatchai Police Station where they were to be charged with avoiding arrest, producing a Category 5 drug (kratom), possession of a Category 5 drug with intent to sell, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition and selling modern medicine illegally. Darawan Naknakhon

fficials have set their sights on raising more than B20 million from the Land Transport Department’s 11th Licence Plate Auction, to be held over two days at the Phuket Merlin Hotel in May. This year’s edition will see bids for 301 sets of licence plates beginning with the Thai alphabet letters KorRor (กร), explained Manop Suthipong, who is currently the acting chief of the Phuket Land Transport Office. The auction will get underway at 9am on May 21-22, and the licence plates to be auctioned can be used only for non-commercial vehicles rated to carry no more than seven people, he added. “Anyone interested in bidding can register at the Phuket Land Transport Office during office hours from April 1 to May 20. People can also register at the Merlin Hotel on the auction days,” Mr Manop told the press on March 22. “The person with the high-

Vice Governor Prajiad Aksornthammakul (left) and Manop Suthipong, who is currently the acting chief of the Phuket Land Transport Office, hold up some of the license plates up for auction. Photo: PR Dept est bid will have the chance to pick whatever licence plate number they want from the 301 sets of plates reserved for the auction, and money raised from the auction will go towards road-safety campaigns and a charity for victims of road accidents.” The event last year event raised B20,552,000, said Mr Manop. “The auction was for licence plates with the letters

KorYor, with 413 people attending the event and the highest bid was B700,000, plate number 9999, followed by B500,000 for plate number 8888,” he said. Vice Governor Prajiad Aksornthammakul said, “I expect more people will take part in the auction this year and generate more than B20 million. “Last year, Phuket received B1,191,100 to promote roadsafety campaigns, which we

used to promote the use of helmets and accident prevention seminars. “We also donated B1, 114,000 to charity to assist 22 road accident victims and paid for wheelchairs and artificial legs for those injured in road accidents.” For more information about the auction, call the Phuket Land Transport Office at 076-211019 ext 101, 203, 205 or 206.

Batteries blamed as boat explodes POLICE ARE INVESTIGAting a cargo boat exploding into flames at Bang Rong Pier in Pah Khlok at 11pm on Monday (Mar 28). The explosion caused a fire which consumed the cargo boat causing close to B1 million in damage officials have said. By the time Capt Suchart Luecha of Thalang Police and rescue workers arrived, the fire had consumed the wooden, 20-metre long Chokmaha 9 cargo boat, moored in Klong Bang Rong. Capt Suchart explained,

The fire had totally consumed the Chokmaha 9 by the time police arrived at the scene. “We were told at 11:30pm that the boat was moored near the mangroves when the batteries exploded, apparently causing the fire. “There were no injuries

reported, and officers were able to save other nearby boats from the fire. Only one other boat sustained small damage from the fire,” he added. He continued, “We were told that the boat was used for transporting cargo and tourists from Phuket to Koh Yao in Phang Nga province. “We are questioning the boat captain and others including the owner to find the out what actually caused the explosion and the fire,” Capt Suchart concluded. Eakkapop Thongtub

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Wheel of fortune

Businessmen aim to build world’s largest Ferris wheel in Phuket Tanyaluk Sakoot reportor2@classactmedia.co.th

consortium of businessmen have applied to the Phuket Provincial Office for permission to build the world’s largest Ferris wheel in Phuket amid a “hightech amusement park”. The consortium, which includes Igor Protasov, CEO of Thai Business Development Group, is led by the PAX Group, which has built large-scale amusement rides around the world and the huge, complex mobile gantry used to handle SOYUZ space vehicles in Kourous, French Guiana. Mr Protasov, speaking at a press launch on Tuesday (Mar 29), declined to estimate the cost of the project or set a target height of the wheel to be created. He also noted that a location had yet to be selected. “The entire project site will occupy 30-40 rai, and the location will be co-ordinated with the Anuphas Group. We would not buy the land, but

SKY HIGH: The consortium (from left) are Naphet Phetklang, Representative of Phuket businesses group; Vladimir Gnezdilov, founder of PAX Group; Igor Protasov, CEO of Thai Business Development Group; and Maj Gen Apithai Swarngpob, Consultant to Thai Business Development Group. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot instead occupy it through a long-term lease,” he told The Phuket News. The Anuphas Group of companies is the business conglomerate of Phuket’s well-known Hongsyok family, who operate Honda dealerships across the island, headed by patriarch former Phuket Town

Mayor and former Phuket Senator Phummisak Hongsyok. Mr Protasov said he expects the world’s largest Ferris wheel to take only “about 18 months” to build, despite the famed Singapore Flyer “observation wheel” taking about 2.5 years to complete. T he Si ngapore Flyer

Five dead in building collapse FIVE FEMALE CONSTRuction workers died when they were crushed in a partial building collapse in Krabi on March 25. Krabi District Chief Suriyan Narongkul and Krabi Police Chief Col Sompong Thiparpakul led officials including rescue workers and an emergency unit to investigate the building collapse at the Institute of Physical Education - Krabi Campus Muang district at 2:30pm. Officials were told that many workers were missing when the second floor slab that

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T h e f i ve wo m e n we r e crushed when the secondfloor slab was being poured. was being poured collapsed on top of a number of construction workers working below. After 20 minutes of searching, rescue workers found five bodies under the debris of wet cement and concrete

fragments. The victims were named as Jitranon Saikaew, 26, Kathleeya Jandeewan, 22,Yad Codon, 42, Warin Rachabuth, 31, Linthong Promsuwan, 37, all Thai nationals. Mr Suriyan said, “Krabi rescue workers sprayed water onto the ready mix cement to prevent it from hardening and used a backhoe to move debris from the site to enable them to find the missing victims. “We were hoping to find them alive, but all five had already died by the time we found them,” he said. Darawan Naknakhon

opened in 2008 and stands 165 metres tall. The world’s largest Ferris wheel, the “High Roller” in Las Vegas, is only three metres taller and also took more than two years to build. The mega-project aims to put Phuket in the forefront of world tourism while attracting

European investment, specifically from United Kingdom, producers, representatives and distributors of space technology and renowned hi-tech theme park attractions, said a press release issued at the launch. “It will be a landmark project, enhancing tourism to the province, and heralding a new era of choice for those wanting to see more on their holiday than the island’s many natural wonders,” Mr Protasov said in the release. “They’ll come just to say they took a ride on the world’s highest Ferris wheel,” he said, adding that the new attraction will add jobs and income to the nation’s balance sheet. “What’s lacking here (in Phuket),” he explains, “is a modern work of architecture, something of a landmark nature, that transcends eras and acts as a magnet to attract tourists in increasing numbers.” The release noted that the PAX Group could build Ferris wheels up to 200 metres high.

As for the design, Mr Protasov said visitors will ride in clear “capsules” with “a full range of facilities” and seating in each for 20 or more: “Appropriate for groups of friends, families, or people on field trips,” he said. Materials will be of the highest quality and durability, said the release. The PAX Group is presently in talks with government agencies regarding construction, preparatory to selecting a site – one that will not result in adverse effects for the environment or local communities. “As soon as it’s clear where building is to take place, it can begin immediately,” Mr Protasov said. He added, “If Phuket people want to see this giant Ferris wheel built, they should show their support for the project. “This is something amazing that will make Phuket even more famous, at the same time benefitting tourism by providing a new experience, one that, when construction is complete, people here can see with their own eyes.”

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OPINION

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CHRIS HUSTED Executive Editor 084 307 7408 execeditor@classactmedia.co.th Fifteen years working in news and covering local issues and events in Phuket, with 18-month hiatus spent working for the Brunei Times on Borneo. From Queensland, Australia; 10 years living in the UK before moving to Phuket in 2000. Degree in business management. Spare time spent sailing or with family.

MATTHEW POND

EDITORIAL

As easy as 1, 2, 3… News involving the Immigration Bureau over the past two weeks could have fooled anybody that April 1 had come early. First, we should praise the bureau for finally clarifying that overstay blacklist re-entry bans do not apply to children. Though, with the bureau having so many native English speakers on hand, it remains dumbfounding that the regulation maintains the wording that “3. These rules are not applied to:… 3.1 An alien who departs the country before the age of 18.” Many foreigners will have figured out by now that this actually means that the rules do not apply to foreign children under 18 still within the country. Yet the icing on the gaffe cake was the data breach of the Nakhon Sri Thammarat

Immigration Office that exposed private information of thousands of expats and tourists in the South (see news pages). To be fair, the Immigration Bureau is not alone in having its data exposed, as dozens of government websites’ insufficient security has been made public mockery by hackers in recent months. In respect to the re-entry ban not affecting minors, it is pitiful that Phuket Immigration was unable to provide a single officer who could respond on the record to clarify the rules. After all, the Immigration Bureau is, as they will very quickly remind when enforcing the law, an entire division of the Royal Thai Police. The sad irony linking the two incidents, however, is that all this has happened in a country whose Prime Minister repeatedly vows to fight cor-

ruption. At the same time, the powers that be have introduced the Computer Crimes Act, which allows up to 15 years jail be imposed on people who post on the internet any information “likely” to cause harm to another and willing to use this law even on Facebook “Likes”. In case people aren’t aware of the definition, corruption requires an official to be involved. Yet, holding officials responsible for the consequences of their actions, or inactions, remains rare – like trying to sue the Highways Dept for an accident caused by a pothole in the road. It seems that for the time being, expats and tourists will just have to take it for granted that the “law” is exactly whatever the officer standing in front of them says it is… unless of course a superior officer says something different.

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Frenchman killed in early morning Patong brawl Patong pub security guards arrested for fatal stabbing of Frenchman Two Patong security guards charged with murder of Frenchman Fallout with boyfriend possible cause of Finnish woman’s alleged leap from Phuket guesthouse

Floating body found on Surin Beach matches description of 66-yearold Brit Immigration data breach puts southern expats’ personal details online Phuket officials test Patong’s brown beach water for pollution Thai police smash Malaysian drugs train gang

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HAVE YOUR SAY American policing advice not needed

not claim any damage your premium will be lowered, but you have to ask attention for that. When I sold my “old” car and the buyer took over my car insurance, I was even able to transfer my no claim built up to my new car. Much is possible, but you have to handle it nice and respectful with the T hai insurance. When your car becomes older than four years you also can consider to take that cheap car insurance at Transport Bureau. Damage repair at your car is after all mostly at a affordable amount. Forget claiming privately money from a Thai car owner who is at fault when hitting your car. Save your energy, you never get it. The other way around works the same if you play the Thai way. Just make sure you have that yearly to renewed, updated sticker on your car window, same counts for your motorbike. Kurt

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Re: PM says he won’t take more jibes The US wanting freedom of expression??? America is the biggest police state on Earth. If you say something wrong in the US you are put an a terror suspect list or arrested or worse. Unless you follow what the local militia tells you to the letter, an armed swat team turns up and you are arrested for some rubbish. America has no right to tell Thailand how to run their country as America is unable to run their own country. Even then they have no right to tell Thailand what to do. The Thai people can decide for themselves and most say the Army are doing well as the politicians do nothing but bicker between themselves. As an expat I see a big difference now to what it was 2-3 years ago. Simon01

Wasteful water Insure the Thai way woes

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Re: What does compulsory road insurance cover? When you buy a new car on Phuket, you can get a fine all in car insurance for about B17,000 per year. Everything covered. Yearly, when you

Re: Phuket water supplies enough for four more months if rainy season delayed: Provincial Waterworks All around us we see people wasting water.. including one house with a pipe fixed to the roof and always tap on to cool

the house.. and where we had lunch they had 3 or for large water pipes for washing plates but 90 % of the time the water still flowing down the drain.... really.. should cost more... Erik Johansen Re: Phuket Opinion: A trillion litres of ignorance Whether it is being directly discharged via blue pipes (the first element of all construction projects...blue lines to the creek/sea) or whether it’s in the tidal zone where each tide swing draws more untreated wastewater from septic systems that are saturated and poorly (if ever) maintained. All of the tidal area/klongs essentially serve as large toilet systems, being flushed with each cycle of the tide. Phuket water is fou l a nd get t i ng wor se. Take a walk along any klong or developed beach front and look at all the pipes and blue lines feeding into every waterway. Everything goes – household wastewater, industrial wastewater, and sewage … Yes, this is what happens in the absence of planning and land use management. Thais can’t sell it off fast enough, and developers can’t cover it with develoments fast enough. Absolutely no consideration for watershed management and groundwater replenishment,

let alone any infrastr uctural improvements to accommodate the increase in trash and sewage...etc. This is all part of greed and mismanagement as Phuket continues it’s break-neck race to the bottom. Anyone been through Kamala lately? Drove through there last week...nothing but mega developments on every piece of land available. This place already has some of the worst ocean water quality on the island...the south end of the bay being all but untouchable. But brace yourselves, it’s going to get worse. Richard Vickers

Raise the bar to prevent more fatal falls Re: Finnish woman, 19, dies in Patong hotel fall How do these accidents happen? There are just so many over the last two years all over Thailand. Should tourist accommodations, from resorts to guesthouses, with balconies be compelled by new laws to raise the height of balcony walls or put additional rails onto the concrete ones? Are the balconies too low, slippery tiles on balconies? Surely alcohol does not play a part in all of them? Yvonne

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Benz travelling up to 257kph before crash

THAILAND NEWS

AYUTTHAYA

Police examine the plantation where the body of the French diving instructor was found in Muang Surat Thani district. Photo: Supapong Chaolan

he Mercedes-Benz involved in the March 13 crash in Ayutthaya that killed two post-graduate students was travelling at a speed of between 215-257kph, police said. Deputy national police chief Pongsapat Pongcharoen said during a briefing on Tuesday (Mar 29) that it took the Mercedes only 25 minutes to travel from the toll booth of the expressway on Rama IV Road to where the crash happened, a distance of 52.1km. T he car was seen on CCTV crashing through the toll gate, and 25 minutes later was in Bang Pa-in district where the accident took place. The speed of the vehicle, therefore, would have been between 215-257kph, he said. The Mercedes sports car, driven by Janepob Veeraporn, 37, rear-ended the Ford Fiesta which was carrying Thanthaphat Horsaengchai, 34, and Kritsana Thaworn, 32, both of whom were post-graduate

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Missing French dive instructor found dead SURAT THANI

The Mercedes-Benz driven by Janepob Veeraporn, 37, turned upside-down in the Ayutthaya crash that killed two students. Photo: Bangkok Post file photo students at Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Faculty of Buddhism. The Ford caught fire, killing the students in the car. Janepob sustained a knee injury during the crash and was sent to Bang Pa-in Hospital where he reportedly refused to give a blood sample for drug and alcohol tests. Police said if a driver refuses to take a test for alcohol, he or she is presumed to have been drinking.

Gen Pongsapat said police have pressed charges of reckless driving causing death and drink-driving causing death against Janepob. Police also are set to file additional charges of speeding and driving without regard to safety causing death, the deputy police chief said. The investigation report involving the charges is expected to be sent to prosecutors by next month, he said. He said police have confidence in

the evidence, while relatives of the dead students want police to proceed with the case swiftly. Ayutthaya police chief Suthi Puangpikul said officers had interviewed 29 out of 41 witnesses. On March 18, police took Janepob to Ayutthaya Provincial Court to begin 12 days of detention. But his lawyer requesed bail on the grounds his client needs further hospital treatment. Bangkok Post

A FRENCH SCUBA DIVing instructor who had been reported missing from Koh Tao on March 18 has been found dead in a plantation in Surat Thani. Police were informed of the body of Jean-Francois Louet, 46, in a banana grove behind Thidamaepra School in Tambon Talard of Muang Surat Thani district at about noon on Tuesday (Mar 29). Mr Louet was found lying face up and dressed in shorts and a T-shirt and had with him a blue rucksack. Police assume he had been dead for 10-15 days. Surat Thani police commander Apichart Boonsriroj

said Mr Louet had travelled to Indonesia with his girlfriend. They returned to Surat Thani on March 14 and bought ferry tickets to Koh Tao. The departure was set at 11pm on the same day. Both already boarded their ferry, but just before departing, Louet got off the boat, presumably to buy something. Local media confirmed he had asked for directions to a 7-Eleven. He never returned and his girlfriend did not report his disappearance to police until March 18. Pol Maj Gen Apichart said police were checking surveillance-camera footage at locations between the pier and the plantation, a distance of about two kilometres. Bangkok Post

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FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

Bullying at its worst

Two girls die after being kicked into Bangkok canal by boy, 12 BANGKOK

rade-school bullying turned to tragedy in Bangkok last week when two young Cambodian girls drowned after being kicked off a Suan Luang district pier by a 12-year-old boy. Piyapat “Nong May” Perdpong, 11, and Supawadee “Nong Waen” Varathum, 12, both died around 2:30pm last Thursday (Mar 24) at the Khlong Prawet Burirom in front of Altiatisom mosque near Soi On Nut 43 and Sukhumvit Road 77. Phra Khanong police and rescue workers joined local residents in searching for the girls, whose lifeless bodies were pulled from the canal a short time later. Their bodies were transferred to Chulalongkorn Hospital for forensic examinations.

Piyasawat, quoting his 9-yearold son as saying. Neither girl could swim. The two girls managed to grab the bank of the khlong, but the boy stomped on their fingers, causing them to slip under the surface. His youngest son cried when seeing his sisters fight for life and residents came running to help, but it was too late. “My daughter could not swim. I asked the boy why he kicked his friends, he said he was just teasing and did not foresee the consequences,” said the tearful father, who cared for three children after separating from his wife two years ago. Col Nipon Charoensil, suRescuers try in vain to revive two young Cambodian girls who drowned after being kicked into a Bangkok canal by a classmate last Thursday (Mar 24). Photo: Vajira Hospital Facebook page perintendent of Phra Khaong police, said investigators would Parents of the two SulaoPiyapat’s father, security victim were playing at the pier kicked Piyapat into the canal. call the boy and his parents in mai School fifth graders burst guard Piyapawat Perdpong, near their school when a male Supawadee tried to help for questioning in the presence into the tears when they saw 45, said his daughter, her two classmate arrived on a bicycle, Piyawat, but the boy kicked of social workers. the bodies of their loved ones. younger brothers and the other walked towards the girls and her into the water too, said Mr Bangkok Post

Prayut wants antics of motorshow ‘pretties’ regulated BANGKOK

This show by bikini-clad Ladapha “Sherry Samkhok” Rachata-amornchot and partner Aphisit Sae-ueng proved too hot for the prime minister. Photo: YouTube video grab

PRIME MINISTER PRAYUT Chan-o-cha has requested the Culture Ministry and the police to impose a limit on provocative shows by “pretties” at motor shows. The prime minister reacted on Tuesday (Mar 29) to a social media outcry over a video clip featuring a lewd performance by a male and female model at the Bangkok International Motor Show, that began last Wednesday (Mar 23) and ends on Sunday (Apr 3). If necessary, the law may be amended to allow stricter controls on scantily clad models and provocative performances at auto shows, said Gen Prayut. “This is a matter of individual conscience and one should never claim she has to do such an immorally wrong act for money,” said Gen Prayut. Gen Prayut’s comment

came after the Nonthaburi district court fined Ladapha Rachata-amornchot, better known as Sherry Samkhok, and Aphisit Sae-ueng, the performers in the clip, B1,500 each for their performance at the motor show fair. Pranaya Pliankim, organiser of the performance, and Kritathach Piyawuthiphoch, the sound controller at the show, were also ordered to pay the fine for their involvement in the incident. In the video clip which circulated on social media, Ms Ladapha was wearing a bikini when she performed a lewd dance with Mr Aphisit. The pair appear to be mimicking a sex act with the male model taking off his shirt and the female moaning at him. They were hired to perform for a car stereo company at the fair. After hearing the ruling on Monday (Mar 28), Ms Ladapha said she did not regret being captured on video performing

at the event but she apologised if society viewed what she had done as being inappropriate. Culture Minister Vira Rojpojchanarat said the ministry has received complaints in the past about motor shows featuring scantily dressed models and provocative performances.

Following the latest incident, the ministry’s culture watch team wrote to Grand Prix International Plc, organiser of the motor show, asking it to tone down sexy outfits of models hired to perform there, Mr Vira said. Bangkok Post

Orange-flavoured ya bah emerges to lure youths KHON KAEN A NEW VARIETY OF SPEED pills (ya bah) has emerged in the Northeast with an orange flavour to lure teenagers into taking the illicit drug, police warned last weekend. The warning came after police arrested a couple and seized from them some ya bah pills with a fruity smell. Nopporn Wapisor, 37, and his wife Mayulee Nunthaisong, 23, of Maha Sarakham’s Na Chuak district, were apprehended in front of a shopping mall in Na Chuak district. A total of 138 pills in orange colour, B8,000 cash, a motorcycle and a mobile phone were seized from them. Maj Gen Yanyong Vetosod, commander of Provincial Police Region 4’s forward command, said last Saturday (Mar 26) that the new form of ya bah with an

orange flavour has become popular among teenage addicts in the Northeast. He has ordered police to drastically crack down on the illicit drugs in their areas. During the interrogation, the couple confessed to having brought 2,000 orange-flavoured pills in Maha Sarakham and most of them had been sold before they were caught, said Maj Gen Yanyong. The suspects said they had bought the new form of pills from a friend in Bangkok’s Phra Khanong area who was part of the network of a drug inmate in a northeastern prison. They also implicated other gang members in selling the orange-flavoured pills in Maha Sakhakham and nearby Khon Kaen. Police were extending the investigation to arrest more members of the drug gang. Bangkok Post thephuketnews

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ASIA NEWS 11

Religious duel in Japan Pastor rock versus Buddhist monk blues JAPAN

ost days, Lutheran pastor Kazuhiro Sekino preaches to his congregation in a soft voice with religious hymns playing in the background of a Tokyo church. But as night falls, he hits a smoky stage criss-crossed with whizzing strobe lights, shedding his pious day job in a battle of the bands against a group of Buddhist monks. “We are rock, pastors are rock!” Sekino, 36, shouts into a microphone to stir up the several hundred concert-goers. The band, “Boxi Rocks” – the name is a play on the Japanese word for pastor – features Sekino and three other pastors, who don church robes during their raucous performances, sometimes with a leather jacket thrown over top. “I like Slipknot, a real hard rock band that has nine masked members. I also like Metallica and Megadeth,” a

Lutheran pastor Kazuhiro Sekino, leader of heavy rock group “Boxi Rocks”, performs in Tokyo. Photo: Yoshikazu Tsuno/AFP soft-spoken Sekino said. “They may look demonic from the Christian church’s point of view, but they are actually shouting to fight the world’s injustice. They talk about truth, no hypocrisy.” Monk Yoshinobu Fujioka – head shaved and wearing a dark blue kimono – hits back with an acoustic guitar

offering as head of the Bozu (monk) band. “I love the Blues. I love Bob Dylan and Sixties’ music,” said the 39-year-old. “Living a worldly life, we always get hurt by pains and suffering which make us feel small. I like to sing about that pain in a tender way.” The unlikely pair hope

their musical duels help them reach more people in a country where Buddhists far outnumber Christians. Figures released by the government based on data supplied by temples, churches and shrines show that Buddhism accounts for about 46 per cent of religious followers, while Christians make up less than 2%.

About 4%, meanwhile, follow Japan’s native Shinto religion. But for many Japanese, religion of any sort is more of a seasonal formality, paying homage at a shrine or celebrating Christmas. “We’re actually performing secular music. We have feelings just like other people and use the same language,

sometimes even more crass,” said Sekino, who turned to heavenly work after his sister became critically ill. “But I want people to know that God lives there [in people’s lives]. I want to share this.” Fujioka and his fellow monk-cum-rockers also opened a bar in Tokyo, where they offer another outlet for troubled visitors seeking a better life – over cocktails. “There are many people who want to talk about their problems and go home with a lighter heart. It’s our responsibility to meet with people like that,” he said. Sekino initially contacted the monk about his quirky idea for musical evangelism and now they perform several times a year – with backing from above. “I don’t know if I should call this heaven or nirvana, but I think this is what the God would want to see – this is something the church or a temple couldn’t do.” AFP

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Saving the sea turtles UNITED STATES

h e yo u n g p a t ie nt writhes on the operating table, kicking its flippers. A team of medical attendants turns it over, revealing an underbelly cluttered with tumours, some as big as golf balls. This endangered green sea turtle, about two years old and too young for the staff to know yet whether it is male or female, is infected with fibropapillomatosis, a potentially deadly disease caused by a type of herpes virus. Experts still don’t understand quite how the virus spreads, or what causes it, though some research has pointed to agricultural run-off, pollution and global warming. As the population of green sea turtles rebounds in and around the Florida Keys, cases of fibropapillomatosis have exploded too, filling the corridors of the United States’ oldest rescue and rehab facility, known simply as the Turtle Hospital. “When I first started here 20 years ago, I would do six to

eight of these a month,” says veterinarian Doug Mader, as he injects a local anaesthetic, then cuts off the cauliflowerlike growths with a carbon dioxide laser. “Now we are doing six to eight a week,” he says as the air fills with the smell of saltwater, alcohol wipes and burning flesh. Each turtle can require several operations to remove all the tumours, which cover their necks, underbellies, and eyes, blinding them and making it hard for them to find food. Green sea turtles were first listed as endangered species in 1976, but are now nesting in record numbers – 28,000 nests counted last year in Florida, up from fewer than 500 decades ago. T hei r st at u s may be changed from “endangered” to merely “threatened” soon. While conservationists celebrate these successes, they also lament that the animals’ environment is increasingly polluted and hot, as the oceans absorb most of the warmth from human-driven climate change. The evidence lays before

Mader every day in the clinic. “I have this horrible feeling that as the oceans warm we are going to see more and more disease,” he says. Nestled in a bright green motel complex connected by pebble strewn pathways, the Turtle Hospital opened its doors in 1986, taking in 12 patients in its inaugural year. Last year, it treated 173 sea turtles – 119 of them with fibropapillomatosis – according to manager Bette Zirkelbach. These days, the hospital has never been busier. Its staff of 18 and fleet of orangeand-white ambulances can be dispatched around the clock to fetch injured turtles. Fibropapillomatosis was first documented in sea turtles in the 1930s, and is pervasive in warm waters around the world. Zirkelbach says about half the green sea turtles in the area are infected, and the cases are getting worse. “In 2012 it was rare to have a turtle coming in with tumours on both eyes. By fall of 2013 almost every turtle that came in with this virus had both eyes covered with

Bette Zirkelbach holds a green sea turtle afflicted by a kind of herpes virus that causes fibropapillomatosis at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, Florida. Photo: Pablo Cozzaglio/AFP tumours.” After spending a year in the hospital’s pools, tumourfree, the turtles are usually released. But if the lesions get into the kidneys and lungs, there is no way to save them. These days, just one in five green sea turtles with fibropapillomatosis will make it back out to the wild, says Zirkelbach. “They are just too sick.” On a typical Tuesday, Mader sees patient after patient, most of them rescued after boat strikes, swallowed hooks, entanglements with fishing gear, and disease. It’s a spectacle that tourists pay to see. A visit to the Turtle Hospital costs as much as an afternoon at the movie theatre, but offers a glimpse of real veterinary teams as they operate on sick turtles behind a plate glass window. And while the US Fish and Wildlife Service Conserva-

tion Commission issues the hospital’s permit and is supportive of the work they do, visitor cash is what pays for all the services, according to owner Richie Moretti. He says 75,000 people visited last year alone, fully funding a hospital which currently hosts more than 60 turtles and costs about $1.5 million a year to operate. Some tumours are mysterious, like the one Mader sees on a female 36 kilogram adult Kemp’s Ridley, who has a bulbous growth the size of an avocado seed near her back right flipper. She is not an eager patient. A young male attendant leans over the operating table, presses his belly against her shell and hugs her still. “Sshhh,” he whispers, as he waits for the anaesthetic to kick in. Moments later, the reptile relaxes. Mader cuts off the tumour with a radio scalpel, then expertly stitches her back up.

Next, the biggest patient of the day – a 87-kilo male loggerhead turtle that may be as old as 70, has been hit by a boat and hasn’t been eating. He shows symptoms of lockjaw, perhaps from a fishing hook stuck in his hard palate and visible on an X-ray. The team works for 45 minutes, reaching in the turtle’s mouth to extract the hook, but it’s been pushed too deeply into the soft tissue near the back of the throat. “Someday, I hope all fishing gear is biodegradable,” sighs Mader. Eventually, he decides the hook will have to stay where it is. The staff will try physical therapy for the turtle’s jaw, and try to get him to eat again before releasing him. “It’s frustrating,” Mader says, as the attendants roll the turtle out of the operating room. “You want to fix every one of them.” AFP

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BUSINESS NEWS 13

Chasing Singapore Marine tourism to lure B5.8bn in revenue, predicts think tank MARINE THE PHUKET NEWS editor@classactmedia.co.th

conomic think-tank Kasikorn Research Center has estimated that Thailand’s yachting tourism industry will generate up to B5.8 billion in revenue this year. Of that, domestic yachts are expected to generate B3.2 billion, mostly in marina services, while foreign visiting yachts are estimated to spend B2.6 billion, also on marina services, as well as related businesses, such as tours and retail commerce. “Yachting tourists are a high-potential market segment that the government aims to promote since they are highend spenders with four times the spending power of other segments,” noted the report. “Thus, the government and private sector are cooperating to boost such business; the government provides marketing support and eases

The Asian debut of the MCY86 by Monte Carlo Yachts by Simpson Marine at PIMEX 2016 in January marked Phuket’s surge to lure yachts from the Singapore market. regulatory controls, e.g., extended visas for yacht owners, captains and crews, plus an accelerated fast track on a new law to allow superyachts to enter Thailand’s waters for leisure and commercial activities, as well as financial support to related businesses, e.g., marinas, to elevate service and competitiveness,” it added. However, the key recom-

mendation of the report was that Thailand should pursue the standards set by Singapore in developing the Kingdom’s marine industry. “Looking ahead, we should enhance our capacity to match that of Singapore, which has an outstanding reputation towards private investments in marinas and other facilities, as well as for personnel

development and dry docks for yacht maintenance,” said the report. “Despite being a regional yacht trading hub, Singapore still has some limitations, e.g., geographic location, high service costs, etc. Therefore, Thailand may take this as an opportunity to attract large leisure yachts from Singapore by promoting our strengths in

service quality that comes at lower costs. “Such efforts may attract more yachting tourists and help Thailand to reach target of becoming the ‘Marina Hub’ of Asean in the near future,” it added. “Moreover, tourism-related businesses could attract offseason Thai tourists with high purchasing power when foreign yachts wane. “Furthermore, marina operators should give priority to retaining skilled personnel in various areas of hospitality service since clients in this segment are high-end visitors with generally much greater purchasing power than those in other segments.” noted the report. Andy Dowden, Managing Director of Andaman Marine Consultants and organiser of the Phuket International Boat Show (PIMEX), welcomed the drive to expand Thailand’s marine industry. “The industry as a whole welcomes the initiatives to-

wards charter licences for foreign-flagged vessels over 30 metres,” he told The Phuket News. “This will enhance the scope for a large number of foreign superyachts to visit and ultimately base themselves in Asia during the northern winter when the Mediterranean is out of season,” he said. “In tandem with these efforts two other areas would benefit the progress: 1) Further marina development in both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand with capacity for all kinds of yachting; and 2) Encouragement for a first-class refit facility capable of handling superyachts in or near Phuket and/or Pattaya. The skill base is already there and needs to be utilised,” he added. “The Andaman Sea is already a destination of choice for many superyachts from November to April and only a limited number base themselves here year-round,” Mr Dowden said.

Govt moves against subprime in low-cost mortgage scheme HOUSING THE BANK OF THAILAND has asked the Government Savings Bank (GSB), GH Bank and Krungthai Bank (KTB) to jointly set approval criteria for pre-financing loans for the government’s low-cost housing scheme under the Pracha Rat (People’s State) initiative to prevent loans turning sour in the future.

@thephuketnews

“The central bank wants the three banks to jointly set the lending criteria for property developers participating in the cheap-housing scheme because these banks don’t have expertise in pre-financing for real estate projects,” said GH Bank senior executive vice-president Chatchai Sirilai. Under the scheme, the three banks will lend B10 billion each to project devel-

opers. The banks will charge 4 per cent for the first two years, followed by the average minimum lending rate minus one percentage point for the remainder of the term. Apart from the B30 billion in pre-financing to developers, GH Bank and the GSB will lend another B20 billion each for mortgages to firsttime home owners entering the low-cost housing scheme. Both banks will charge no

interest for the first year, 2% for the second and third years, 5% for the fourth to sixth years and floating rates for the remainder. With the special rate and relaxed debt-servicing limit, those who buy or lease homes priced B700,000 or less will pay a monthly rate of B3,000 for the first three years, B4,000 from the fourth to the sixth years and B4,500 for the remainder. The scheme

A woman walks past an ad board at GH Bank’s headquarters promoting loans for the Pracha Rat low-cost housing project. Photo: Bangkok Post / Somchai Poomlard is aimed at helping eligible participants afford a 30-year lease or mortgage on a home. First-time buyers, including

state officials, who are selfemployed or otherwise earn a low or uncertain income. Bangkok Post

14 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

The Easter surprise A changing landscape for British expats – The Latest UK Budget FINANCE PHUKET EXPAT FINANCE editor@classactmedia.co.th

very year around this time, while British children are concerning themselves with what goodies the Easter Bunny left for them, their expatriate parents are fretting over what new surprises the Chancellor will have in store when he delivers his annual address to Parliament. While the recent budget offered no major changes for British expatriates, the past few years have heralded so many transmogrifications of the UK tax code that many people have found it difficult to keep up. Will we be better off or worse off? But even though there were no surprises offered up in this year’s budget, there are several areas under review which could have a lasting effect on anyone who is no longer classed as a UK resident.

UK Pensions To most retirees, pension legislation is the main concern. For those have relied primarily on their UK state pensions, it has been suggested that the additional pension credit – which helps to guarantee a minimum income – may be in jeopardy. If a struggling pensioner now decides to spend time abroad, new proposals suggest that they could lose this pension

British Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne holds up the ominous briefcase containing his taxation and spending plans for 2016 and beyond. Photo: AFP credit. Currently, pensioners may spend 13 weeks overseas, but there are proposals to reduce it to just four weeks. For someone not yet retired, it will now take more years to qualify for a full state pension. The required number of years to pay National Insurance Contributions is set to rise from 30 to 35 years, which will likely play havoc with many people’s retirement plans. Yet another proposal suggests eliminating the personal allowances for British expatriates. For someone already finding it hard to make ends meet, removing the current £11,000 (B55,000) allowance would generate an immediate tax bill.

Furthermore, if you have a state pension, rent out your home in the UK and have a small company pension, you could find that you have moved up into the 40% tax band. Whilst many retirees live in a country where pensions are taxed locally, this is not the case for Thailand, so losing the personal allowance will negatively impact retirement income. Retiring expatriates will have to wait until 2017 to find out if this proposal becomes law.

The Pain But the removal of the personal allowance is not the only concern for expatriates owning UK property. As of April 2015, the sale of UK property by an expat is sub-

ject to capital gains tax. So, for anyone renting out their property to generate extra income, and who planned to sell at a future date for extra cash, the new law means incurring a tax bill of 28% on any increase in property value between April 2015 and the date of sale. Unfortunately, these new rules do not just apply to property, but also extend to other assets, such as large share portfolios. Incredibly, the complete elimination of the Pension Commencement Lump Sum (PCLS) – the tax-free lump sum that pensioners may withdraw from their private pension pot upon retiring – is also being mooted. There is

likely to be great opposition to a move like this, but the move is expected to generate a much needed GB£4 billion (B200.24 billion) per annum, and more than once the current Chancellor has shown a readiness to use pensions to fund his budget. One change to pensions which did take effect on April 6 was to the Lifetime Allowance (LTA). The LTA is the total value of pension savings that can be accumulated in a lifetime without a tax charge, and this sum has been reduced from £1.25 million (B62.57 million) to £1 million (just over B50 million). This has steadily been reduced from a peak of £1.8 million (B90.1 million) since 2010, and further reductions are expected in the future. Some experts fear that all of these moves could be counterproductive for the UK in the long term. Expatriates who no longer find any advantage to keeping their “toe in UK waters” may decide to sever ties altogether. Imagine the impact of all British expatriates simultaneously abandoning the UK property sector, share markets and the pension industry…

The Gain But not all changes in legislation are for the worse. For example, until recently, British private pension holders were forced to annuitise their pension after age 75. But pension

overhauls now mean that no one, expatriate or UK resident, is forced into an annuity. Furthermore, if an individual today has pensions totalling less than GB£30,000 (just over B1.5 million), they may withdraw the full amount whenever they wish. If they have not exceeded their personal allowance, they will then be able to take the monies over three years, completely free of tax, providing their allowance isn’t used elsewhere. And of course, since 2006, UK expatriates have the ability to transfer their private pensions overseas into a QROPS, an HMRC-recognised pension scheme domiciled in one of the world’s premier tax-free centres. If UK expats decide to do that, then much of the above becomes moot. For example, if a pension is transferred to Gibraltar – before any benefits have been taken – the tax-free lump sum would never be in danger, and all income would be subject to only a 2.5% tax rate. As the UK government shows no sign of cooling in their efforts to shift more of a tax burden onto expatriates, anyone with a UK pension may want to consider striking while the iron is hot. If you would like to learn more about investing, contact us at: chatwithus@phuketexpatfinance.com

Thai Lion Air spreads its wings AIRLINES Thai Lion Air recently took delivery of its 19th Boeing 737 in line with the expansion.

THAI LION AIR (TLA), the no-frills subsidiary of Indonesia’s Lion Air Group, is zeroing in on spreading its

wings internationally and enlarging its domestic network. Myanmar, Vietnam and China are on TLA’s radar screen for launch this year with a resumption of flights to Indonesia from its Bang-

kok base forming part of the international expansion, said TLA chief executive Aswin Yangkirativorn. The airline, now in its third year, plans to add Trang, Khon Kaen and Phitsanulok while considering connecting Hat Yai with Chiang Mai. The expansion is consistent with TLA’s increased aircraft capacity as five more jets, a combination of Boeing B737900ERs and 737-800s, are due to join the fleet this year. Regular services from Don Mueang in Bangkok to Trang and Jakarta will see a more definite timing for a launch next month. That would be followed by an inaugural flight to Yangon from Don Mueang in May. Vietnamese services, to Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, could commence in the third quarter of this year. Bangkok Post thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

What you get when you mix batik, art

JOURNEY

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

Robin Schulz to play XANA show on Apr 4

5,000 kilometres in 10 days on a 110-cc motorbike, and all for a good cause > Page 18

Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation English Teacher Hamandt Manjit Singh and his students.

@thephuketnews

16 ART

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

What do you get when you cross Art with Batik? Artik, of course! Oasis ed Phuket kez@oasisedphuket.com

Prasert Pensook.

huket is well known for its vibrant batik craft, with bright colours seen everywhere from the uniforms of government staff on a Friday, to flamboyant sarongs being sold on our streets. Most often the designs are centered around ocean scenes, teeming with bright fish and coral, on an equally bright background. But about 4 years ago a new kid appeared on the block to take batik down a whole new path, one that dared to include obscure shapes, darker tones and deeper concepts. In this evolved; Artik.

Each piece takes a number of weeks to complete.

And what an amazing fusion it is to behold. Inspired to explore the relationships of Universal Truth, Earth & Spirit, and Family, Khun Prasert Pensook of Artik’s artworks are a journey through outer-space & inner-self, passing solar systems of creation, crossroads where worlds overlap, travelling beyond that which is seen and known. After training and working in the traditional style of batik for over 10 years, Khun Prasert began to experiment and add his own personal concepts to the batik style. Taking the foundation techniques of batik, Khun Prasert stretched & pushed them in a direction that is now distinctly his own. Based in Phang Nga Road, Phuket Town, Khun Prasert shares the Drawing Room Gallery with fellow artists Khun Isara and Khun Jek, where he both creates and displays his works for sale. If you time your visit right, you can even catch him in the creation process, applying either wax designs or colours. Each piece, often at least one metre square, takes him a number of weeks to complete, with the even larger ones taking months of development. In viewing his artworks, you’ll be astonished, and impressed, by the amount of details, layers and time that goes into each and every artwork he creates. Although already stunning, his

The batiks are backlit with flourescent lights. Batik artworks are given a greater depth of colour, light and life as Khun Prasert carefully displays them backlit with fluorescent lights. The artworks draw you in, to examine the finer details, to question “why & how?”, to stand back and take in the whole. As a very friendly and approachable person, with a laugh in his eyes, Khun Prasert will happily show you around the Drawing Room, discussing the “how’s and why’s” of his artworks. Khun Prasert also plans to teach an Artik style Batik workshop in conjunction with Oasis ed. Phuket in May this year. For further information about this contact Kez via kez@oasisedphuket.com or visit www. negarta.com to view Khun Prasert’s artworks online.

The ignorance of cocky Bangkokians

mateur cartographer, Bangkokian and uni student Rackchart Wongarthichart rose to Thailand social media fame earlier this month when he posted his “Politically Incorrect” map on Facebook, which enjoyed thousands of shares and likes. The map, which highlights how many Bangkokians tend to stereotype the rest of Thailand and its neighbours, received much praise and criticism. If anything, it demonstrates how arrogant and ignorant the Bangkok-centric class of people in Central Thailand can be. In his initial version, he labelled the geographical region covering Phuket and Phang Nga provinces simply as “Phuket” but later changed this region to be “Pattaya 2”. Meanwhile, Krabi was labled as “PP” presumably in reference to the neighbouring Phi Phi islands. A retort to Mr Rackchart: the disregard in Phuket for ethnocentric Bangkok is mutual, but let us remind you that, economically speaking, you depend on us much more than we depend on you!

thephuketnews

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EDUCATION 17

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

Ultimate outdoor experiences Steven Layne editor@classactmedia.co.th

They get to learn new things and experience nature first hand, away from their TVs, iPhones and iPads.”

ome 35 students and five of their teachers from Kajonkiet International School’s (KIS) Years 5 and 6 classes from March 16-18 embarked on the school’s annual camp upcountry. The three-day, two-night interdisciplinary, overnight outdoor education experience traversed the lush lakes, jungle hillsides and pristine coastal waters of Phang Nga, north of

Phuket. The trip was organised and co-chaperoned by Sea Canoe Eco Tours, and led on behalf of KIS by Mr Koko (Classroom teaching assistant); Mrs Carter (Year 6 Class teacher and Key Stage 2 phase leader); Mr Singh (Year 6 classroom teacher); Ms Fennema (Year 5 Class teacher) and Mr Cairncross (Sports and swimming teacher). Mrs Carter explained the purpose of the trip. “As part of the British curriculum, at the end of Key Stage 2, Year 6 students are asked to take part in a residential trip, which is an opportunity for the children to go away to experience being away from home and learn to be responsible for themselves. We also invite the Year 5 students, so the idea is that students can get this experience two years in a row before continuing on to Key Stage 3.” For many of the students, it’s the first opportunity they’ll get to travel away from home so it’s quite a big deal, notes Mrs Carter. “They get to learn new things and experience nature first hand, away from their TVs, iPhones and iPads, and above all, it’s an opportunity for them to have a good time and bond with their teachers and classmates.” On Day 1, the troop headed to the Ratchaprapa Dam at the stunning Chiew Lan Lake in the Khao Sok National Park, where they split into groups of four and checked into their floating, lakeside cabins. On the first night, students learned a quick and valuable lesson about the boundaries between nature and humankind, when some students forgot to shut off the lights, prompting an infestation of light-hungry insects, and a forced light-out remedy. The next morning, everyone woke up at 4.30am to prepare for the day ahead, starting with breakfast and a morning swim. “The students got to experience various sounds, noises and sights. It’s quite a contrast from the comfy air-conditioned rooms that they’re used to,” said Ms Carter. After packing up, the troop set out for Phu Ta Jor National Park, a massive hill located 13 kilometres

Youth Summit, on Phu Ta Jor. off-road in Phang Nga’s lush Kapong district, where they got the conventional camping experience. “After a bumpy off-road trek up the hill in four-by-fours, we arrived at the camp site, where students began to prep for the evening before winding down to a breathtaking sunset. Students paired up and helped to put up their tents. Some helped get the campfire going, and under the watchful eye of staff, helped with the barbecue. After dinner everyone got to roast marshmallows.” But the highlight of Phu Ta Jor came in the morning. “Everyone woke up before dawn, about 5am, to pack everything down before hiking up to the summit of Phu Ta Jor. It was a little scary hiking up in the pitch dark, and then sitting in silence, which was finally rewarded by an amazing sunrise,” recalled Mrs Carter. The final day comprised of a trip by speedboat to the Surin Islands National Park. Along the way students visited a few Moken sea gypsy villages, went snorkeling and witnessed a memorable encounter with a black hornbill during lunch, before finally making the unwanted return home to Phuket. But the experience didn’t end with the travels, as students were then asked to recount their trip through journaling, poetry, art and presentation. “In the week following the trip, the children worked really hard to put together a PowerPoint presentation, in which they recalled the highlights,

The camp included trips to Khao Sok National Park and the Surin Islands. Learning team skills was among the students’ life experiences.

Students were encouraged to enjoy learning outside the classroom. @thephuketnews

Rise and shine at Phu Ta Jor. sights, memories, photos and sketches from the trip. We completed a collective art piece from their sketches during the trip to recreate a photograph, and the students acted out some skits from some of their experiences,” said Mrs Carter. Indeed, such an interdisciplinary trip proved to be much more than just camping, facilitating rich, outdoor and team-building opportunities to apply observation, learning and knowledge in life sciences, geology, geography, technology and art. Year 6 student Nellie Alicia reports on a first encounter, “It was my first time seeing a sea snake for real, I can’t describe how it made me feel – it was, ‘Wow!’” Year 6 student Dylan Felton was asked to sum up the camp in three words, “Exciting; fun; memorable” Year 6 student Holly Maitland Smith concludes that, “It is important to experience camp so we can be more independent and be with nature, not just stuck in a classroom or at home watching TV.” Can’t wait for next year’s trip.

18 COMMUNITY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

Going that extra mile for charity

amant Manjit Singh, English Teacher and Coconut Club Coordinator with the Phuket Has Been Good To Us (PHBGTU) Foundation will be taking on a special trip and challenge this April during the Thai school holidays. He is going to ride 5,000km in 10 days along the border of Thailand in order to raise money for PHBGTU. He already has over B70,000 pledged from friends in Singapore, and hopes to spread news about his journey and raise even more. The Phuket News spoke with Hamant about the trip. Tell us about yourself and how you got involved with PHBGTU I am a Singaporean English teacher with PHBGTU in Kamala. I’ve been teaching overseas since I graduated and I love engaging with new cultures and people. I have now been teaching for close to five years in Southeast Asia. I love exploring the region and I find that I learn more with each passing year. My other interests include film, hiking and swimming. I first came across PHBGTU when I returned home from Vietnam. I had spent some time in Singapore before discovering the foundation on the internet. Through the modern communicative conveniences that the internet

The Honda Click Hamant will be riding. the ride. Costs consist mostly of hotels, gas refills, food and on-the-road maintenance, for both my vehicle and the safety car that will follow. The estimated costs of the ride are about B25,000 for the entire 10 days.

Hamant seen here with some of the kids from PHBGTU in Kamala. allows, the interview process was both smooth and successful! I have been teaching in Phuket for 10 months now and I am proud and happy to say that I will be here for another year at least. What inspired you to do this motorbike ride? Charity was never really my sort of thing to be honest and I mostly just wanted to focus on teaching. Being with the foundation and experiencing the backgrounds that the children come from has opened

my eyes to want to do more. I now understand how important giving back is especially if the gift you’re giving is education; no one can take that away from them. If the children can go the extra mile for education, then so can I! Can you tell us your specific route, and how you determined it? The initial idea was to do a border ride around Thailand and after several weeks of streamlining and re-configuring plans, I settled on the following route. It will be a tenday journey that begins at the school where the children live and ends at Phuket Bike Week on Patong Beach: Day 1 - 36th Rajaprajanugroh School to Prachuap Khiri Khan

Hamant will ride 5,000km along the border of Thailand.

Day 2 - Prachuap Khiri Khan to Nakhon Sawan Day 3 - Nakhon Sawan to Mae Hong Son Day 4 - Mae Hong Son to Chiang Rai Day 5 - Chiang Rai to Loei Day 6 - Loei to Ubon Ratchathani Day 7 - Ubon to Chanthaburi Day 8 - Chanthaburi to Samut Songkhram Day 9 - Samut Songkhram to Prachuap Khiri Khan Day 10 - Prachuap Khiri Khan to Phuket, with the ride ending at Phuket Bike Week 2016 (See map) What kind of motorbike will you use, how much do you anticipate your costs to be? I will be using a Honda Click 110-cc Scooter (fuelinjection) for the duration of

Anything else you want to share with readers before your trip? I’d like to urge everyone to be part of this ride by contributing an amount, however small through the various avenues for donations: a) Online at https://fundrazr.com/campaigns/a13qe7 b) Through our Paypal account, info@phukethasbeengoodtous.org c) Via cheque by mail or in person addressed to 80/14 Moo 3, T.Kamala, A. Katu, Phuket, 83150 Thailand Together, we can give the underprivileged children of Kamala a chance for a better tomorrow. The Phuket News wishes Hamant a safe journey and looks forward to catching up upon his return.

Getting some pratice in before the journey begins.

thephuketnews

ENVIRONMENT 19

So happy together THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

Hotels, government unite in Mai Khao turtle nesting, rehabilitation project

he Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, in collaboration with the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources and business partners, hosted “The Marine Turtle Nesting Site Conservation and Rehabilitation Project” and the grand opening of “The Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation”, an on-site Turtle Shelter and Education Centre located at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, on March 23. On this occasion, the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, Gen Surasak Kanjanarat, participated in the event along with Phuket Vice Governor Dr Prajiad Aksornthammakul and parties. The event welcomed the Honorary Chairperson of The Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, Mrs Katherine Heinecke, and the executive management team of Marriott International, Mr Carl Hudson, Area Vice President of Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia and Japan and Mr Oriol Montal, General Manager of JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa. The successful event was a great opportunity to officially launch the grand opening of The Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, also known as the turtle shelter and education centre, opening its doors to the public as well as marking the special occasion of the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Conservation Declaration

The event celebrated a reinvigorated drive to protect Phuket’s sea turtle population signing ceremony among 10 hospitality operators, and three government sectors including Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, Anantara Vacation Club Phuket Mai Khao, Dvaree Mai Khao Beach, Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Mai Khao, JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, Maikhao Dream Villa Resort and Spa Phuket, Marriott Vacation Club Resort, Renaissance Phuket Resort and Spa, Sala Phuket Resort & Spa, Baan Maikhao Phuket by Sansiri, Mai Khao Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, Phuket Marine Biological Centre, Sirinath National Park and Mai Khao

Hotel, IUCN staff restore Phuket mangroves for CSR

taff from four hotels under the Marriott International brand in Phuket recently got together in Thap Pla Village of Phang Nga province to plant at least 2,700 mangrove pods as part of their year-long plan CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) project. The four hotels under who took part in this initiative include JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa; Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa; JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort and Spa; and the upcoming Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach. Forming a team of more than 250 associates, the volunteer staff did their part to make our little corner of paradise a little greener, seeing through 2,700 mangrove pods planted, including 300 young white bean trees to add to the approximately 57,280 square kilometres of mangroves. Leading the initiative was Ms Kanokwan Homcha-aim, a representative @thephuketnews

More than 2,700 mangrove pods were planted during the event. from IUCN (International Union for Conversation of Nature), who affirmed that the CSR initiative will be taking place on

every quarter of the year and by the end of 2016 they plan to plant at least 10,000 more mangrove pods throughout Phuket.

Marine Turtle Foundation. A total of 19 turtle were released back to the Andaman Sea as a significant gesture of the special occasion. “I am very honoured to be here today to represent the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation at the Turtle Shelter and Education Center Grand Opening. I was personally involved with this project when it started 14 years ago when we had a very large leatherback come and lay her eggs in front of the hotel during the hotel opening time, I am very happy to report that she was back again last year laying more eggs. Together with the PMBC, IUCN, our partners and local community we have spent 14 years protecting the turtles of Mai Khao and educating people about their plight. “We are very excited to have signed a new ‘Turtle Declaration for Mai Khao’ and will be working with all of the hotels in Mai Khao in a strategic manner to further positively impact the conservation of turtle and the amazing beauty of this natural area we call Mai Khao. “The private sector partners are working closely together to sustain this project financially long term so that we can continue to welcome nesting turtles back to Mai Khao. “We are hugely proud and excited about the opening of our on-site turtle and education center where we can share our resident turtles with the community, guests and schools,” said Ms Heinecke.

Declaration of Marine Turtle Conservation at Mai Khao Beach 1) The association realises the state of the threatened marine turtles at Mai Khao Beach and is also aware of how important turtle conservation is. Thus, it initiates a joint action for the restoration of Mai Khao Beach as marine turtles’ habitat and nesting site in Thailand and the region. 2) The association will abide by an ecofriendly strategic effort for the marine turtle and its environment upon the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources’ code of conduct of turtle nesting ground management and also the Indian Ocean South East Asia’s MoU. 3) Hospitality operators will promote and create the economic mechanism to support marine turtle conservation activity at Mai Khao Beach. 4) Local authorities will promote and support the participation of the public for the preservation of relevant local traditional culture regarding the marine turtles at Mai Khao Beach. 5) Sirinath National Park performs an effective protection for the marine turtle’s nesting site and habitat and promotes the participation of owners for turtle conservation and management in its own property. 6) Phuket Marine Biological Centre (PMBC) is doing scientific research, monitoring and assessing the status of marine turtles at Mai Khao Beach as well as providing technical advice to the association. 7) Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation is acting as a coordinator in promoting and supporting collaboration among the associations. Under this declaration, the association will conduct an annual meeting to stimulate Mai Khao turtle conservation programme into an evident success.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

Robin Schulz set to make ‘Waves’ at Xana

n what could possibly be one of the biggest performances to grace the shores of Phuket this year, German electronic DJ and producer, Robin Schulz is coming to Phuket for a one-off performance, which will start off a week-long music fest. Having topped the charts across Europe and boasting numerous top10 hits in the US, Asia and Australia including Prayer in C, Sugar, Headlights, Waves and Sun Goes Down, Grammy nominated Schulz will be taking his sounds to Bang Tao Beach’s XANA with Attica Beach Club this coming Monday (Apr 4). The event promotor Aaron Zoanetti was excited about the performance. “We’re incredibly thrilled that an artist the calibre of Robin Schulz will be performing in Phuket – his iconic sounds suit the beaches of Phuket perfectly”, he says. For his part, Schulz is looking forward to performing in such an idyllic setting. “One of the perks of my job is playing in some really fantastic venues and locations, and the beaches of Thailand are going to be a really electrifying place to perform.” General Admission tickets can be pre-purchased for B690. A strictly limited number of tickets will be available on the door for B750. Doors Open at 8pm.

The Robin Schulz Beach Party will mark the opening of the TropOut Festival. @thephuketnews

Also to note, the Robin Schulz Beach Party will mark the opening of the TropOut Festival, which is a week-long festival oriented toward – but certainly not exclusive to – the gay community, and which will be held from April 3 to 9. The festival will host gay travellers coming from all over the world. That said, the Robin Schulz party is open to everybody, irregardless of sexual orientation. Nonetheless, there will be a VIP area reserved for TropOut guests, while the remainder of Xana Beach Club will be open to the general public. Members of Phuket’s gay community can buy passes to the week-long TropOut festival at the door. The TropOut packages for travellers includes six nights, seven days accommodation at the brand new Cassia Phuket or idyllic 5 star Angsana Laguna Phuket, complimentary daily access to Xana Beach Club and Dream Beach Club; premier parties and entertainment every night; daily yoga and meditation classes; daily breakfasts; a TropOut Welcome Pack, including plush TropOut beach towel; complimentary access to TropOut water taxis to transport you between TropOut hotels and beach clubs, and so much more. Live 89.5 and The Phuket News are proud sponsors of this event.

ENTERTAINMENT 21

22 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

From left: Mr. Pisai Sukwan, from the Third Naval Command Phuket; Mrs. Katherine Heinecke, Honourary Chairperson of The Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation; General Surasak Kanjanarat, The Minister of environment and Natural Resources; and Dr. Prachiad Aksornthamakul, Vice Phuket Governor

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

Mr. Oriol Montal (4th from right), General Manager, JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa posed with Dr. Prachiad Aksornthamakul (3rd from left), Vice Phuket Governor, Mr. Pisai Sukwan (4th from left), the Third Naval Command Phuket, Mr. Kittipan Sabkhoon (2nd from right), Manager of Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation and Kanokwan Homchaaim (1st left), Field Coordinator South (Marriott project) Thailand Programme IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Asia Regional Office and parties.

HOTELS, LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITE FOR TURTLES Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation (Turtle Shelter and Education Centre) in collaboration with the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources and business partners hosted “The Marine Turtle Nesting Site Conservation and Rehabilitation project and grand opening of ‘The Turtle Shelter & Education Centre” on Wednesday March 23 at the on-site Turtle Shelter and Education Centre, located at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa. The Minister of environment and Natural Resources, General Surasak Kanjanarat presided over the ceremony along with the Director General of Department of Marine and Coastal Resources Suthiluck Raviwan and guests, national and local media. For more information, see story on Environment, page 19.

19 Turtles were released back to the Andaman Sea as a significant sign of the special occasion.

From left: MC Pannaphak Takrue; Busaya Jaipiam, Director, Public Relations Dept Phuket Office; Dr Kritsada Tonsakul, President, Thai Hotels Association (Southern Chapter); Pakpoom Intarasuwan, Chief Admin Officer (Palad), Phuket Provincial Office; Santi Pawai, Director, Tourism and Sports Phuket Office; Anoma Vonyai, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand Phuket Office; and Kritpanat Patwarasit, Managing Director, Chor Creative and Organizer Co Ltd.

Lovely ladies were on hand to welcome guests to the Phuket press launch of the Thailand Music Balloon Festival, to be held in Thalang April 14-17.

READY FOR LIFT OFF The Thailand Music Balloon Festival received a welcome liftoff last Saturday (Mar 26) when a variety of VIPs took to the stage at the Tablespoon Cafe at Central festival Phuket to voice support for the inaugural event. Passers-by couldn't resist but take photos - and selfies - with the impressive "mini-balloons" set up on site.

All age category winners proudly show off their winning trophies.

Wout Bakker of balloon festival organiser Ballonbeek Co Ltd is all smiles as the show balloons are inflated at the offiial event launch sponsor Tablespoon Cafe at Central Festival Phuket.

From left: Suracha ‘Pro Punk’ Singkajorn and Kridchai Pawonrsit.

2ND LAGUNA PHUKET JUNIOR GOLF TOURNAMENT Laguna Golf Phuket and the British International School, Phuket teamed to organise the 2nd Laguna Phuket Junior Golf Tournament! Aimed at getting juniors to have fun while enjoying the game of golf, the event was held last Sunday (Mar 27) and included an exciting 18 hole golf competition around the award winning golf course, plus goodie bags, on-course refreshments and prize giving presentation following play.

From left: Ms YiYue Crystal Zhong, Assistant Marketing Communications Manager Laguna Phuket Golf Club; Oliver Bates, Head Coach BISP Golf Academy and Paul Wilson, Director of Golf, Laguna Phuket Golf Club thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ISLAND SCENE 23

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

BREAKING DOWN BILLY William Shakespeare’s legacy lived on last Monday, March 21, as funny, exciting and spell-binding performance was put on to the delight of the audience. Presented by Theatrix and HeadStart, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) was put on at HeadStart, taking the audience through all 37 plays in 97 minutes. The initial Outta the Box Classics series was proudly sponsored by The Phuket News, Live 89.5, Two Chefs, Oasis ed and The Green Man.

Paul Poole (2nd right), Tommy Corley of The Irish Times Pub (centre) and his partner joined the Class Act Media crew on the sunset cruise. Wade Leathem of Lofty Phuket and his partner enjoying the cruise.

SAYIN’ THANKS AT SUNSET Class Act Media together with Wahoo Phuket Luxury Yacht Charter invited several friends and clients out on a Sunset Cruise last Saturday (March 26) with Wahoo Phuket Luxury Yacht Charter. The party left Chalong Pier and ventured out to Koh Racha before coming around Phuket’s west coast to witness a spectacular sunset climax before returning everyone safely and happily to Chalong.

The sun sinks into the ocean at Laem Phromthep.

Earth Hour 2016 on March 19.

World Sleep Day on March 18.

WORLD SLEEP DAY & EARTH HOUR @ THE WESTIN The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Phuket recently celebrated World Sleep Day in partnership with World Sleep Society on March 18, followed by Earth Hour 2016 on March 19. The resort organised a Heavenly® Bed pop-up event located near EEST restaurant on March 18 from 8am-6pm. Guests enjoyed taking photos of the set up and participating in a photo contest. The next day, the hotel’s associates and guests came together to shine a light on climate action by switching off lights at the resort from 8.30-9.30pm. During the hour, live acoustic music was enjoyed to candlight with the complement of good snacks and company. @thephuketnews

11TH THAILAND PROPERTY AWARDS ANNOUNCED The Thailand Property Awards presented by Hansgrohe returns for a successful 11th edition to reward the finest developers and current developments in the country’s resilient real estate sector. The annual event was launched to the media on March 29 at the Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaphrasong Hotel.

24 EVENTS

FRI

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

1 APR

your choice, your style: nature, mariniere, provencale, garlic & cream or Thai style reservations recommended B295 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

BBQ at Expat Hotel Weekends Special Lunch Menu at Café & Restaurant Friday BBQ Buffet at SKYE Beach Club

Price at 799++, RSVP, SKYE Beach Club at Naiyang Beach, 093 582 7700.

Bollywood Phuket’s Weekend Special Indian Lunch Set

Indian Curry Night on Fridays

BISP Art exhibition - The Mad Artists Tea Party British artist Goldie MBE will open ‘The Mad Artists Tea Party’ on Monday 21 March at 3pm in the main lobby at BISP. The Grand Opening is open to the general public, and the exhibition runs until 27 May 2016. For more information about visual art at BISP, please visit bisphuket. ac.th/visual-arts.

SAT

Pool Competition at Expat Sports Bar

Lazy Sunday Brunch Indulge yourself in a culinary experience like no other at DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Phuket Surin Beach; a wide selection of Thai delicacies alongside sushi platter, pasta, pizza, meat carving station and a variety of desserts you can’t miss! It also includes free flow of soft drinks! Only THB 399++ per person. Children aged 4-12 receive 50% discount off. This includes free access to our swimming pools, water slides and Kids Club.” RSVP 076 303 300.

Asialife Radio Music Festival

Come and enjoy the authentic flavour of India by indulging in our weekend ‘s special lunch set for only B399++ per person between 11am-3pm. Menu includes 3 staters, 4 main course and dessert served with Gulab Jamun/Phirni Vanilla Custard/Ice Cream (choose 1). All for just B399++ per person. For more info please call 076 304 034.

Come to Navrang Mahal in Karon Sea Sands Resort & Spa for an authentic Indian Feast First Week Friday and the Third Week Friday, in Karon Beach. Try out our delicious Aloo Tikki, Samosas, Chicken Tandoori, Aloo Gobi, Navrang Korma, Butter Chicken, Lamb Vindaloo, Naan, Rice, Salads, Chutneys / Achars, Pistachio Ice Cream, Gulah Jamun, Fruits. And extra dishes on the menu:ONIONBHAJI, BOMBAY ALOO, DAL MAKHINI, VANILLA ICE-CREAM. For only 499/- nett and special reduced prices on drinks.

Time 8pm, Expat Sports Bar, Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www.expatsportsbar.com

We are a Western & fusion café & restaurant in the heart of Old Phuket Town, offering fine dining experiences in the relaxing contemporary Peranakan café atmosphere. The restaurant opens daily from 4:00–11:00 pm, closed every Wednesday. From we are open for lunch during weekends from 11:00 am–11:00 pm with variety of new mouthwatering lunch menu. info@ texturephuket.com, 081 916 1430.

Half Moon Festival ‘Glow In Paradise’ PARADISE BEACH PHUKET presents the Biggest and Coolest Half Moon Paradise on the island with the Professional open air beach SUPER PARTY production VS the International famous DJs.

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

In the park at the Royal Phuket Marina, Phuket. Earli-bird tickets B800 per adult or B1,200 at the gate. Students with ID get in at half price, Kids under 12 get in FREE. From 1pm. The Bands: The Pjae Stanley Band, Legends of Siam, Black & Blue, The Moody Band, Dtach, Curious Itch, The Fuzztones, Cotton Mouth, The Bangkok Travelers, Go Bai Bai, Happy Snappers. For more information visit AsiaLifeRadio.Com

SUN

3 APR

Phuket FC vs Yala United Sunday 3 April Phuket FC vs Yala United at Surakul Stadium. Kick-off 7pm. Admission B50 adults, Free for children with school ID Card.Proudly supported by The Phuket News.Khun Maann, Maann@ works-international.com

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet

Beef, Pork & Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, Fried mushrooms, Grilled Tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding – Roasted Potatoes, Mashed Potatoes – Gravey, Mushroom sauce, Mint Sauce. Reservation Recommended 350 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

Sunday roast at Gallery Cafe By Pinky @ new Chalong branch Every Sunday from 12pm and all-day brunch and dinner every day from 7am-10pm. 0891037000 FB : Gallerycafe by Pinky, thegallerycafe@yahoo.com, 089 103 7000.

2 APR

The competition at 9pm Expat Sports Bar at the Expat Hotel Soi Taipan Patong. See map at www.expathotel.com.

Miss Hooters Swimsuit Pageant - 2016 Light House Market at Boat Lagoon Mussels night @ Shakers 1.2kg

mussels

served

with

french

fries

Phukets best Chefs, live cooking shows, free tastings and Fireworks. For more info visit www.facebook.com/lighthousemarketphuket

Hooters Asia invites all to this FREE ENTRY event, to discover which one of the beautiful Hooters girls will win the opportunity to represent Thailand at the Miss Hooters International Pageant. For more information please call Hooters on 076 349 850.

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice of either roast beef, chicken, loin of pork or leg of lamb served with roast and boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Only B350 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See otools-phuket.com.

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EVENTS 25

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

MON

4 APR

to tap into a market segment (Oil and Gas Executives) not really catered for in Phuket. Now that this is a yearly fixture it is intended that a Phuket based Charity will be supported on an annual basis, for 2016 the children’s charity chosen is Barnhem. If you want to participate in this year’s event, please visit asiangolfevents. com. Proudly supported by The Phuket News, Live 89.5 and Phuket News TV.

FRI

8 APR

All you can eat BBQ night

6pm – 11pm: beef, pork, chicken, burgers, sausages, prawns & squids, salad buffet, choice of potatoes & sauces, bread, buns & garlic bread Reservation recommended 350 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

Beach Party with ROBIN SCHULZ

Pre-purchase tickets for THB 690 @ robinschulz.com or tickets at the door for THB 750 (cash only)..

WED

6 APR

PHUKET BIKE WEEK 2016 ‘ASEAN RIDE TOGETHER

PHUKET BIKE WEEK 2016 “ASEAN RIDE TOGETHER” The biggest motorcycle event in Asia. Celebrating the 22nd anniversary. This event expects to gather over 10,000 motorcyclists and 50,000 visitors from 30 countries. Which will be held on 8-10 April 2016 at Loma Park in Patong and 15 -16 April 2016 at Anuphas courtyard, Phuket Town, Phuket province. Visit our website http://www.phuketbikeweek.com/ or call 076 352 069.Proudly supported by The Phuket News Khun Wittaya Singkalah, ridethailandtour@hotmail.com

FRI

15 APR

out any wrong notes..” - Hamburger MorgenpostAward-winning romance released in SF Cinema City Jungceylon from 21 April. Proudly supported by Phuket News TV

PIWC April luncheon Not to be missed. April 21, 2016 – Phuket International Women’s Club Monthly lunch at Bampot Kitchen & Bar in Cherngtalay. Limited seating, only 30 people will be accepted. Registration starts at 11.30 am. Members 600 baht, non-members 750 baht. Reservation essential: please contact Maggy Wigman at info@piwcphuket.com Proudly supported by The Phuket News.Maggy Wigman, info@piwc-phuket.com

FRI

29 APR

Romeo and Juliet The world’s most famous love story by the world’s most popular author! Theatrix and HeadStart will present William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet on the HeadStart stage on April 29 at 6 p.m. Outta the Box Classics part two is not to be missed! Romance! Action! and even comedy! It’s got everything! Proudly sponsored by Phuket News and Live 89.5, Two Chefs, Green Man, and Oasis Ed.Joel Adams, theatrixphuket@gmail.com

Every Wednesday! All-you-caneat Pasta and Pizza Every Wednesday Eat all you can for Pizza and Pasta only for 500 Baht. Drink all you can Peroni & Belleville only for 450 Baht or Both EAT DRINK ALL YOU CAN ONLY FOR 890 Bath with DOUBLE EXPRESSIONS LIVE! Wednesdays 6pm to 11pm. info@pastabellini.com. Located at Chalong Circle, Chao-Fa East.

Phuket’s biggest Songkarn Festival! 10 international & Local DJs. Mermaid water show, sensual sea creatures, seafood love-bite menu, giveaways, water gunz, ciroc balls, pool floats, swim ring & more madness.

6pm – 11pm: All you can eat BBQ ribs served with salad buffet, potato salad & choice of sauces. Reservations recommended THB295 P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

THU

This is an ideal opportunity for local companies

@thephuketnews

THU

21 APR

7 APR

8th Phuket Oilfield Classic Charity Golf Tournament

The 5th Edition of Phuket UNESCO International Jazz Day. On behalf of Phuket City Municipality. MMC presents the 5th edition of Phuket UNESCO International Jazz Day. Open to the public at 7 PM at Chanacharoen Road ,Phuket City. Main events featuring Phuket local,Int’l jazz and guest. For more info please call 089 588 2347.Proundly Supported by The Phuket News and Live 89.5 radio

Thailand Balloon Music Festival 2016 Underwater Love xx

All you can eat BBQ Ribs night

SUN

30 APR

Coming to Phuket this April is the Thailand Balloon Music Festival! Hot off the celebrations of Songkran 2016, this years festival will be taking place between April 14th and 17th in Paradise Park near the British Internal School Phuket. Featuring some of the Kingdom’s most prolific musicians, nightly DJ sets and some of the most eye-popping Hot Air Balloon displays in SE Asia. Festivities begin April 14th for VIP guests, and the following day for the general public. Don’t miss the party, book your tickets now at www. chortickets.com Proundly supported by The Phuket News

Free Football Trials This is your chance to join The HeadStart Football Academy. Saturday, March 19th 10:30 - 12:00 pm. Open to player from 12-15 years of age.JR, jr@headstartphuket.com, 076 612 875-6

EVERY DAY

InterBike Hash #4

Patong Girl In Thailand, Felix falls in love with the mysterious Fai. He follows his heart…but things get complicated.“A touching intercultural story with-

Phuket Mountain Bike Hash will be hosting the InterBike Hash #4 between 29 April & 1 May, drawing Hashers from all over SEA and beyond. Enjoy the lush tropics of the Andaman Sea, with 3 days of guided off-road rides for strong-willed and meeker hearts. Indulge in Phuket’s history, folklore, and hash festivities. We promise COLD drinks, wet water, and hot weather….along with your favorite ‘forget-me-not’ souvenirs. Registration required and limited to 200. Special lodging arrangements, find all details on our website - http://phuketinterbikehash.com.

Great Mexican, Thai and Flamegrilled Burgers in a beautiful setting! If you have time this month get down to Sea Breeze located in Royal Phuket Marina. Open 9am to 10pm everyday serving home-made mexican specialties, flame grilled burgers and Thai specials! All sport available shown live, Contact: Reservations, info@seabreezerpm.com, 076 360 806.

26 TIME OUT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York Across

1. How many squares are there on a chessboard? 2. Duxelle are what vegetables, finely chopped, cooked in butter with shallots and wine? 3. What is a semiconductor device used to amplify and switch electronic signals and electrical power? 4. Which television family lived at 1313 Mockingbird Lane? 5. In 2002, which country became the first FIFA Football World Cup semi-finalists from outside Europe and the Americas? Answers below, centre.

SUDOKU

61. “Love ___” (soul ballad) 1. Wharton degree 66. Dam 4. Arable lands 67. Big citrus fruit 10. Blockhead 68. Crack 14. Televise 69. Pool agitation 15. Fuss 70. Dormitory 16. Clickable image annoyance 17. Community events 71. Disfigure 20. Augury 21. Store Down convenience, for short 1. Some fraternity 22. Greek H members 23. It was founded in 2. Electronic image 1909 3. Unpaid debt 25. Given a term 4. Sentence starter 30. Twist 5. Itty-bitty bit 32. American ___ 6. Attics 33. Forum greeting 7. English 34. Address assignment 37. Gush 8. Experiences 38. Local map 9. “Fiddler on the 43. Bowls over Roof” setting 44. Certain shark 10. Couch 45. Relations 11. Wood sorrel 46. “Monty Python” 12. Campaigner, for airer short 48. Smooth 13. Lt.’s subordinate 52. Blank folio 18. Boxes 56. Secondary school 19. News bit in France 24. Water carrier 57. Prefix with natal 26. Kind of jacket 27. Family head 58. Neckpiece 28. Continuously 60. Greyish brown 29. Wet, as morning eagles

grass 31. Bring home 35. Draw forth 36. U.S.S.R. successor 37. Dogie, e.g. 38. “The Open Window” writer 39. Identical 40. Landlord’s due 41. A little work 42. Lockup 46. Suds 47. Hits just beyond the infield 49. Riot 50. “What fools these mortals be” writer 51. Prefix with day or year 53. Contest effort 54. Texas battle 55. More elfin 59. Wight, for one 61. Be in arrears 62. Nancy Drew’s boyfriend 63. A hand 64. Came in first 65. Craggy peak

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) 64; 2) Mushrooms; 3) Transistor; 4) The Munsters; 5) South Korea

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

■■ April 1, 1867

2.5

Singapore becomes a British crown colony. ■■ April 2, 1513

days is how long a rose’s life can be extended by placing it in sugar water.

Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León first sights land in what is now Florida.

■■ April 3, 1888

Jack The Ripper: The first of 11 unsolved brutal murders of women committed in or near the impoverished Whitechapel district in the East End of London, occurs.

newborn babies are given to the wrong parents every day.

4,900

metres is how far Edward Michael “Bear” Grylls plummeted in 1996 when his parachute failed to open properly. He broke his back, but two years later climbed Mt Everest.

From left: Mao Zedong, Peng Zhen, Norodom Sihanouk and Liu Shaoqi. Photo: US Center of Military History

■■ April 4, 1976

50,000

Prince Norodom Sihanouk resigns as leader of Cambodia and is placed under house arrest. ■■ April 5, 1614

land mines have been defused and removed by Cambodian Aki Ra, with only a pocket knife, a hoe, a stick and his bare hands.

2.8 million

US dollars and two years is what it took to get a bacon sandwich to ISS astronaut Tim Peake. Source: Uberfacts

This week in history

In Virginia, Native American Pocahontas marries English colonist John Rolfe. ■■ April 6, 1896

In Athens, the opening of the first modern Olympic Games is celebrated, 1,500 years after the original games are banned by Roman emperor Theodosius I.

Tyre swing through the ages. Photo by Gülçehre Güzel Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket? Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

■■ April 7, 451 AD

Attila the Hun sacks the town of Metz and attacks other cities in Gaul. Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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MARINE SERVICES

MOVING SERVICES

PROPERTY SERVICES

STORAGE Reserve Your Storage Space

Call 076 29 29 09

or visit mystorageasia.com

 Sizes to Suit all Budgets  Personal & Business Storage  Motorcycle Storage  Left Luggage Service  We Sell Boxes  Storage Insurance Inclusive

Secure, Clean & Cost Effective Self Storage Jungceylon Shopping Center, Patong, Phuket

TRAINING

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

TRAVEL GUIDE

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CONSTRUCTION SERVICES Building Renovation Engineering Maintenance

T: 094-546 0422 (Eng-Thai)

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Buy&Sell BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE Dive boat for sale Dive boat Asian Adventure, Length–18m, Width– 4.6m, Depth–1.7m, 1 Eng–315 H.P. capasity 40 passengers +3 crew. Located in Chalong, sales@ joydive.asia, 084 182 8685.

1 engine speedboat for sale Honda 250 H.P. 15 passengers+3 crew, Length–8.10m, Width–2.40, Depth-1.6. Excellent conditions, sound system Located in Chalong. Vladimir, sales@joydive.asia, 0841828685.

Boston Whaler conquest 255 Immaculate condition, Mercury 150hp x 2 very low hours, Thai registered. This boat comes with full inventory. Lying AoPo marina Phuket. mikehigh1@gmail. com Mike, mikehigh1@gmail.com, 088 768 4701.

Yacht Chartering and Resort Big A Swan 55 Yacht Chartering and Resort in Phuket Thailand Sailing : Big A Swan 55, Accommodation: Big A Resort 076-383080 Email: bigasail@samart.co.th.

ACTIVITIES, GROUPS Roof top Patong Mini Golf

The best sea view 18 Holes, roof top Mini Golf. Located on the 4th floor of Banana Walk Plaza in Patong, 091 762 2628, http:// patongminigolf.com

Free Tiya’s Hammocks campaign Win Free hammock from Tiya’s Hammocks Phuket. Winner will get V Weave hammock, handmade from North of Thailand, weight capacity 250 kgs. Value 5,200 THB. More details visit Facebook: Tiya’s hammocks, Contact: Tiya, tiya@ tiyashammocks.com, 089 600 0041.

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PETS

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Bangla agogo club for sale

A newly refurbished bar/club with great returns is for sale. Fully fitted out over 2 floors. Very cheap and very low rent. Reliable landlord. Steve, stevepearcergj@hotmail.co.uk, 089 587 0819.

Unique Stretch Limo Business Only available Stretch Limo in Thailand. 9 meters long 8 pax, in good condition with all documents and green plates. Turn key business incl. website just to take over and start to make money! 2,500,000.-, Patitta Apichotjarus, Patong, phuketstretchlimo@gmail.com, 080 145 0082.

Horse and Dog Vet Hospital Open from 10am. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8pm.*Service all types of animals. * Experienced professionals.Contact: 076 620 136 /084 210 6868 and contact@horsedogvet.com www.horsedogvet.com

Pets Magic Planet

Business for Sale

Open from 9am. - 7pm. *The best international brands. * The ultimate choice. * Luxury accessries & jewels. Contact: 076 620 106 / 091 040 4000 and contact@petsmagicplanet.com

Non tourist/bar related business for sale, yearly turnover of 15MB. Call 087 276 0529 or 081 968 6051 for more details.

Newly renovated hotel for rent Newly renovated hotel/guest house in Patongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart for rent from owner. 12 rooms, 2 shops to busy street, many facilities. More details check thephuketnews.com, search Listing ID 55398 or call +66(0)81 538 1399.

Restaurant on Main Street Large, tastefully decorated restaurant in Cherngtalay. Fully fitted and equipped kitchen, 100 seats, bar. Walk in and start business. Now only B790,000, 089 400 5907.

German bakery & deli & snack Main road, 8 years clientele, take over + incl. training complete equipment, staff room, 3 or 5 years leasing contract. Yearly volume 4 mio. hansibakery@gmail.com, Price: 3.5 million, Contact Mr. Stark.

Best Deal Rawai business for sale. Area approx 2Rai, can do restaurant or other business.Five mins from beach. Long term lease, yearly rent B200,000. 4 bedrooms house included. Reduce from B980,000 to B520,000. Contact Khun Asoke at 089 646 7176 / big_redchili@yahoo.com

CAR FOR SALE TOYOTA CORALLA ALTIS TRD Sept. 2011. 57000 km. 1 farang owner no accident. Toyota service. Top condition. Tel: 086 043 4315 (English and German). 440,000, Per Dompert, Phuket, perdompert@hotmail.com, 086 043 4315.

TOYOTA ALTIS 1.6G AT

2008. 62K kms. White. Usual G refinements. Insurance, FSH, Lady driver 395K baht ono 395K, Clive Roberts, crob58@gmail.com, 081 087 9237 or 086 270 8727.

Chevy Captiva LT 2008 Chevrolet Captiva LT 2008, 499,000 Baht, 62.000 KM, 1 Owner, 2.0L Turbo Diesel, Full Chevy Service History, No Accidents, 1st Class Insurance. Tel. 082 804 1742.

TOYOTA Fortuner 2009 7 seats, Silver, GPS video, Family car Diesel 2,694cc, Blue book Service history Toyota Pearl 78,000kms. AUTOMATIC transmission, golfguru2005@yahoo.co.uk, 076 615 827.

Nissan Teana 2.5Lt Model 2014 17,000km. New price 1.7Mln NOW 1,050,000Baht Eng: 081 788 8280 Thai: 090 163 2140, Contact Maurice, maurice.phuket@gmail. com , 090 163 2140.

n r ge

t sa

Honda Jazz 2009 1500cc Auto

57,000kms. One owner since new. Regularly U serviced by Honda. Tax and Insurance until the end of June and available now at right offer. Reduced by 40,000bht, REDUCED to 330,000bht o.n.o, Andy +66846909144, andysmalster@gmail.com.

CARS WANTED

CAR WASH DELIVERY

MEMBERSHIPS Blue Canyon Membership

Tired Of Waiting? We clean your car at your place - at your time. No.1 car wash delivery in Phuket. Call 076-355-042 or go to CleanCar.me for more details.

Blue Canyon Membership for sale. 1 corporate nominee for sale THB 630,000 inc transfer fee. grahamhaslam@hotmail.com.

PUBLIC NOTICES Notice In June 2016, Bangkok Hospital Phuket will have to destroy patient records being inactive for over 10 years. For assistance & information, call 1719 or e-mail us at info@phukethospital.com.

PERSONAL SERVICES De Laguna By Dr.JaQ International Clinic English Speaking Doctor By Appointment 095 0851188 FB: DrJaq Warnnissorn Providing Anti-Aging (Botox, Filler, Live Cell Therapy, Alternative Cancer Treatment, Chelation Medical, House Call). Integrative and Advancement in Medicine for individualized treatment programs for patients of all ages and with various disorders, Email: tosawcute@gmail.com.

FURNITURE FOR SALE Swinging Sun Loungers For Sale Swinging, sun loungers, brand new, excellent quality- 6,000 baht only, Contact: Eddy, eddyelan@ yahoo.com, 0899710278.

MOVING SERVICES Looking for Moving Company? With over 15 years of experience Bigmove Phuket is the number 1 provider of moving and shipping in and out of Phuket Thailand. We provide storage in a state of the art clean, secure, storage facility located centrally in Phuket. www.bigmovephuket.com, 081-797-5377.

PETS FOR ADOPTION Two cute Poodles We are 2 cute Poodles, both under 5kgs & the best of friends & wish to find a new loving home together, both of us are sterilized, vaccinated & healthy. Please contact Sherin.peace@gmail. com for adoption enquires.

COMMUNITY

OTHER For Sale Industrial over locker. Whitehouse Brand. 3 Thread. Brand new never used. Full tool kit. Bargain at 12,000 Baht. Call Sandi 087 264 0778.

RESORT FOR SALE/LEASE

Resort for sale lease any offer consider! I want go sailing again!!, Address : 67/18 Soi Sermsuk Rawai Phuket, bigasail@samart.co.th, Contact +66 (0)86 9401860.

Office Space Laguna

Office Space Laguna - Plaza del Mar Fully Furnished offices 4 Office Suite plus boardroom Rent entire unit or individual office 080 045 4474.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

2 New Resale Condos 3.9 MB. 7%net ROI

1 bed condos on the market 7%net ROI for 14 years! Rare Pool access modern hilltop unit. Panoramic views of Andaman Bay & city lights of Patong. Also 1 bed city & ocean views, fully furnished & professionally managed. You just collect 7% net/year hassle free. Contact phuketjon@gmail.com, 084 842 2262.

Sea View Land 265 Met. Pub.Rd. Great investment. 3/5 Rai Plots. NS3G Titles. Price start 4 M/Rai. Full infra. 265 Met. Pub. Rd. Frontage. Located on Koh Yao Yai resort area, just 25 min. speed boat from Phuket. We can make easy half day trip 10am-2pm. Call Charlie /more info, charlesaraines@hotmail.com, 062 069 1965.

Laguna - Luxury 1 Bed & Golf Membership For Sale

Totally renovated: new kitchen, wood floors, furnished, sound system. Price includes Laguna Golf Membership and Privilege Card. THB 6.9M. Owner 084 247 1632 - E-Mail: phuket3203@gmail.com.

Patong Tower and Andaman Beach suite for sale Mountains and Sea Views, Call David 080 692 6114, email: patongrealestate@gmail.com.

Urgent need Toyota hilux vigo

Luxury Apartment hotel in Kata

Want to sell your Toyota hilux vigo Champ ? vigo4u is the best palace to sell your Toyota. Vigo4u now in Phuket, Pataya and Bangkok also. 084 344 3444, 02 810 8117.

Luxury Apartment hotel for sale in Kata beach. 356sqm, 3 floors. 12 rooms, all have sea view, kitchen, Thai chanote or 90 years lease. 30 MB., Noi (Thai & EN), Kata Beach, t_senrum@live. com.au, 083 391 5525.

MOTORBIKES FOR SALE Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS 2012

Karon Beach New House For Sale/Rent

Showroom condition, new from Kawasaki Phuket May 2012, 2,000km, Hepco & Becker Engine Bars & Rear-rack, Kawasaki Handguards and Pyramid Hugger., 220,000 THB, Paul, 084 1 303 234, Plongmore@hotmail.com.

80 Sqm. 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom, Terrace carport. Nice Sea view. Sale 5.8 MB. Rent long term 18,000 per month. Gunter Kraus, Phuket, naruchai@gmx.de, 091 040 2471.

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Buy&Sell

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PROPERTY FOR SALE Villa For Sale / Rent Located at Naiharn beach Soi Naya 3, Mountain view, Swimming pool, Balcony, 2 floor, 4 bed room. Total 92 sq.m. Thai 081 958 0542 ENG 081 956 6813.

Owner Sales Appartment “ The Pearl of Naithon “ Leasehold Total area 226,66 SQM including terrace 41,25 Sqm. 3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms Price THB 13.5 million. MP: 089 814 1458.

House for sale Private pool villa with lovely garden half a rai. Quite and safe area. 3 bedroom 2 bathroom open kitchen. 160 m2 Situated in Ban Pahra. 12 minutes to PIA, Phuket Airport, Nay Yang beach, and Blue Canyon Golf course. 2 min to Mission Hill Golf course.Price 8 million baht, 225 000 euro, bergsstigen@ telia.com, 090 701 4204.

Chalong Villa for sale

Living area 450 sq.m, Land 800 sq.m. 1st floor: Living room, Master bdr with en-suite bth, Kitchen, Seaview terrace, Pool, Carpark. 2nd floor: 4 bdr with bth, 2nd living room, Office. 19.5M, oliver@thurmanngroup.com, 087 877 2320.

SPACIOUS 4-BED RAWAI VILLA Beautiful home in 1,038sqm gardens.Three en suite beds, guest house, 9x4m pool, maid’s room. Living space 320sqm. Private access. Reduced to 12,000,000THB, alangath@ gmail.com, 087 273 0141.

PROPERTY FOR SALE New Sea View Villa Premium villa 8B in the prestiques Sunrise Ocean Villas developement is now for sale. Being built on the highest point in the estate, only 80 meters from the ocean and located 3 mins away from Grand AoPor Marina, 10 mins from golf course, 20 mins from the airport,, shopping centers, schools and hospitals, this villa is a perfect place to live with no traffic, no pollution and no mass tourism..., Over than 600 Sqm usable building area, 3 bedrooms, guest apartment, maid quarters, games room, 10 meter infinity swimming pool, roof terrace and breath taking views. Can be ready to move in within 8 weeks and still can be customized to the wishes of new owner. For sale at only 24.9 mill Baht. For viewing or more information please contact our sales director, Khun Montha 081 343 0777 Email : montha_phuket@yahoo.com.

Two-story house in Phuket City Land 400 sq. m, living area 344 sq.m, 6 rooms, 3 bathrooms, maid’s room with bath. Fully furnished. Very good for living and business. 15,000,000.-, Pauline Haldemann, haldemwa@ hotmail.com, 081 895 0038.

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Land for sale - Mission Height NICE LAND FOR SALE AT MISSION HEIGHT, JUST OVER ONE RAI. Phone 093 629 4400 English, 082 421 4842 Thai.

Alexander Kolesnikov 3 Bedroom Villa for sale. Building 320 s.m. Land 900 s.m. Nice garden, 2 cars garage, study. Just 3 minutes from BIS. 15 MB, Contact Alexander, alexkolinz@gmail.com, 089 651 3250.

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PROPERTY FOR SALE

For Sale or Rent 4 bedroom 3 bath room excellent view Chalong bay 3 storage,Fully furnished all new swimming pool in quiet area Rawai beach. All inquires. Tidarat, 087 466 5635.

House For Rent at tennis club

Partner for resort wanted

5 Rai. hillside Maikhao beach. Main buiding finished. Nice sunset seaview, 087 267 1192, Julius_schuster2001@yahoo.de

2 bedrooms,1 en suite bedroom,2 bathroom, living area and big veranda. Idea for tennis Coach. Prefer long term rent. Viewing by appointment only. Patra, patbittersweet@gmail.com , 081 607 2805.

House For Sale

Alexander Kolesnikov

Land & 4 storey Commercial building for sell.Patong. Just 60 m from the beach. Guesthouse 6 luxury rooms + restaurant 40 seats. 17 MB, Contact Alexander, alexkolinz@gmail.com, 089 651 3250.

PROPERTY FOR RENT

D Condo Creek Short term offer

Located in Rawai soi Samaki3 2 bedroom 2 bathroom 1 Laundry room 1 storage room Living area 160 sq.m, Chanot title 280 sq.m. 3.2 MB., Rico9963@hotmail.com, 083 640 9041

1-6 months offer. Free stay 2 week on conditions. Fully furnished w washing machine. Mountains view, 5th fl. Bike rental. See room from Mar 12, move in from 15 Mar. Tiya, lodchong77th@yahoo. com, 089 600 0041.

SMALL RESORT BY LAGUNA

4 Luxury villas, office, 2 pools, 1 Rai - Chanote. Secure investment, price below replacement cost, money maker. Owner 82 retiring. 30 Mil Baht. Lets talk. Owner, 089 594 4067.

Phuket Beach Front Land 14 RAI Beach front Phuket,Phungnga Close 5-7*hote,Chanode title,90 meters of water frontage More than 100 m wide beach&small piece of land close to the beach 25MB/RAI, Ms.Pam, phuketmyhouse@gmail.com, 089 868 8668.

Fire sale 7 shop houses for sale, 20 meters from Chalong round about. On the way to pier for Sale. 25 Million, kieranpmadden@hotmail.com, 096 924 4661.

Brand new 3 bed villa Onyx Living area 160 sq.m. Land 200 sq.m. Fully luxury furnished. Open plan living room with kitchen, Private & Peaceful area, Security gate estate, Gym. 8.9M, oliver@thurmanngroup. com, 087 877 2320.

Villa for sale

Exclusive Villa with Pool and Garden In Phuket, Rawai/Nai Harn, Land size: 1’700 m2, build up area 400m2. Private sale, no agents please. 36 MB, JasminConsulting@gmx.net.

The Base Downtown - Sale/Rent 1 Bed (35sqm) & 2 Bed (60sqm), fully furnished, pool view. Near Central, BIS, Big C, Lotus, Siriroj hospital, Darasamut School, Thai Hua School (Close to new Central Embassy- good investment). Swimming pool, fitness & library. Rent:15,000-25,000 THB/month and 35,000-45,000 THB/month. Panattaporn.c@gmail.com, 093 639 4654.

Make money NOW - Kata Beach House for sale

West coast Phuket Great Location, Spa, 7 Bedroom, 7 Bathroom, all with kitchens. Rent or live with good income. 5 minutes walk to Kata beach. ขายของได้ 9 MB or Offer, Khun Arreerat, kataari@ yahoo.com, 086 595 8512, 081 970 4638.

Sale. Semi detached house

Living room 2 double bedrooms 1 fitted furniture and en-suite fitted kitchen office bathroom carport garden Land 188sqm, house 75sqm. 2,000,000, Khun Peter, Baan Pleunjan 2, Paklok, Talang, lowprofile@mail.com, 086 905 1406.

Anuphas Golfville House- Kathu

Land 162 sqwa. Large Pool/Jacuzzi-3 Bed-4 Bath-Office-2 Storage Building-Alarm System and much more. Reduced 22MB to 18 MB for Quick Sale. mrgeoffcurry@yahoo.com, Si +6681 970 8896 TH/ENG, Geoff+6681 854 0061 ENG.

Waterfront Condominium The Cleat Condo, residence project in Krabi Boat Lagoon Marina. Price 3-9MB, size 37119 Sq.M., 1 or 2 bedroom, marina view. For rent/sale. marketing@phuketpropertytrip.com

Ocean View Land Kamala Half rai 797sq.m. cleared and leveled, power connected, sealed road, MUST SELL 6.75million. For ENG 090 492 3101 THA 093 768 6694.

Vassana Residence. Rawai Fully furnished 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom. Swimming pool on ground. WiFi and cable TV included in price. 160M.S. in size. long term only. 35,000, Art, Rawai / NaiHarn, vassana.residence@gmail. com, Eng.087 882 9604.

For Sale/Rent (5 Days - 6 Months)

Land For Sale 3 Mil Baht

4 Floors, 6 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms. Fully furnished. Kuku, Phuket Town. Contact Joy, 093 596 2757, joyfulphuket@gmail.com.

In Thalang area 2.5 Rai beautiful, flat land with access road, Chanote title, only 5 minutes from Thanyapura (PIA International school). sk.thanya@ gmail.com, 081 737 8624.

LUXURY POOL VILLA BY LAGUNA

Kata Seaview Condo For Sale New 1 bedroom with great sea and sunset views! 44sqm. Leasehold with foriegn freehold available. Swimming pool, sauna and clubhouse. Flexible furniture options. Great management and rental program, 082 254 0760.

Townhouse for sale. Chalong. Townhouse 150sq.m, 2 storey, 2 bedroom, living room, kitchen, 2 balcony, 2 bathroom, office, parking. Fully furnitured. Chalong circle, Price: 3700000, Contact: Mariya, mvs97@yandex.ru, 0822751146, Fax: 0918053725.

House in Karon for Sale. Hard

to find 3 bed room , 3 bath room house for sale in the perfect location near Kata & Karon beach, well maintained with a salt water pool, Price : 16,000,000, Narrisara (Tic), 7/8 Patak Soi 10, Karon, g-a-coates@ hotmail.com, 0991642991.

Sea view land in Patong The Last Piece of Sea View Land on Prime Location in Patong, just 500 m. from Patong beach, 1.3 KM. to Jungceylon Shopping Mall, Contact: Karuna, kpattarawalee@

Beachfront House 4-Bedroom house on semiprivate beach available for sale and rent. Can easily be divided into two separate and identical properties. The rental/sale can also include a self-contained 1-bedroom bungalow, Price: 18.2 MB, Rent 110,000 THB, Alex Seago, home@thaivillaboutique.com, 087-8923876.

Office/Shop for Rent

Ground Floor space with excellent positioning on Chalong Pier Road. For more information, please call 081 416 4177 or 076 381 341.

gmail.com, 089 967 5373.

Outstanding Villa for sale

Has everything, comfort, security, live in a small resort - lush tropical garden. 35,000 Baht per month. Long lease. Owner, 089 594 4067.

Retail space for rent

Retail space available in the Ocean Plaza Patong for massage, beauty, coffee, souvenir shops etc. Low rent contracts for up to 12 yrs. For info call Natty at 086 281 8883 or 076 343 506. 3632, Nattida Thaboondee, g.cummings@hotmail.com, 086 281 8883.

Chalong Villa for rent Living area 450 sq.m, Land: 800 sq.m. 1st floor: Living room, Master bdr with en-suite bth, Kitchen, Sea view terrace, Pool, 2nd floor: 4 bdr with bth, 2nd living room, Office. 90,000/month/ year., oliver@thurmanngroup.com, 087 877 2320.

Amazing Sea view Penthouse in Rawai FOR RENT Amazing Sea view Penthouse in Rawai. 360 p ํ anoramic breathtaking views of Chalong bay, mountain view and big Buddha. Two bedrooms, 310 sq.m of spacious living area and balconies. Please contact Izzy 086278 8300 or Danai 090 170 0429. propertysales@serenityphuket.com.

Surin Andaman Apt - 2 beds

100 sqm w 2 beds, close to Surin & Bangtao beaches. Common Pool. Fully furnished with AC, fans, internet, cable TV. Short term possible. 24,000 THB, 081 273 1740.

3 bed/3 bath, Living area 370 sq.m, Land 600 sq.m. Located at the 4 Star Residence. Spacious living quarters, open plan living, dining areas, gourmet kitchen, private pool. 14.9M, oliver@thurmanngroup.com, +66 (0)87 877 2320.

Long term, quality furnishings, near Heroines Monument, 3 bed, 2 baths plus office. Good garden. THB35,000 per month. Call 087 878 5804.

PROPERTY FOR RENT

2-Bed/2-Bath & Studio for rent. Balcony. Full A/C. Western Kitchen. Modern furnished. All Extras. Fast WIFI free. Ouiet Location & well maintained. Email : khunrei@gmail.com, 084 185 8536.

Rawai Sea View Condominium For Rent

Short/long-term rental. 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, Stunning sea view, Fully furnished, Large swimming pool, Lift. reservation@ almaliresidence.com, 0935742533

House for rent - Near Pah-klok

PATONG: 1 and 2 Bed Apartments

CHALONG BEACH FRONT LAND Direct beach front land for rent. Long and short term. Area 2400 sq meter with beach front of 40 meter, Contact: Mr. Narin, narinpga@ gmail.com, 081 826 9390.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

SPORT 35

Phuket downed by Red Eagles FOOTBALL

was going to be a tough game against a young team hungry for success, but despite taking the lead in only the fifth minute of the game, Phuket’s own lack of communication within the team cost them two goals and the first loss of the season. It was Phuket’s Thai centre forward Sukree Etae (13) who gave the hosts an early lead after Dosso Mamoudou skillfully got past two Hatyai defenders to put a nice cross into the host’s box, and an unmarked Sukree made no

Matt Pond editor3@classactmedia.co.th

n own goal and mistake by Phuket FC’s second-choice goalkeeper handed Hatyai FC a 2-1 win over the Andaman Dragon in their first home league game of the 2016 AIS Southern Region Division 2 season at Surakul Stadium last Sunday (Mar 27). Phuket’s Coach Pittaya ‘Odd’ Phimarnman knew it

AIS SOUTHERN REGION DIVISION 2 Team

MP W

GD Pts

Hatyai FC

Nara Utd

Phangnga FC

Phatthalung FC

Pattani FC

Ranong Utd

Satun Utd

Trang FC

-1

Phuket FC

-1

Nakhorn Si Heritage

-2

Yala Utd

-1

Suratthani FC

-2

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mistake when slotting the ball home. However, a lack of communication between Phuket’s reserve goalkeeper Witsanu Arjhan and Korean centre back Baek Yongsun saw Baek put the ball into his own net later in the first half. Hatyai had put a cross into the box, and despite there being no attacking player to even threaten scoring a goal, Witsanu failed to shout to Baek that he was coming for the ball, and Baek thinking he would be safely putting the ball behind, knocked it into his own goal. T his did n’t deter the Dragon, and they still had plenty of possession in the remaining time of the first half, and the introduction of leading scorer Sarod Jitsanor further enhanced their attacking force. But at half time the score remained at 1-1. However, it was Hatyai who came out the stronger side in the second 45, and about midway through, Phuket’s Witsanu made a decision to make a quick throw out to a Phuket defender with the defender not realising a Hatyai player was right

Phuket FC’s Sukree Etae scored the opening goal in the fifth minute of the game. Photo: Phuket FC 2016 Facebook behind him. Once again, a lack of communication saw Hatyai’s Mansrod (19) snatch the ball from Phuket and he put the ball home to give the hosts the lead. Phuket did come close on a couple of occasions late in the closing stages of the game, but were unable to level the score. Speaking to The Phuket News after the game, Coach Odd said, “Today’s game was like a tennis match, and we lost because of unforced errors.

“We started very well, but I don’t know what happened, especially with Hatyai’s first goal. “And when we suffer a goal like that we have to pick ourselves up quickly and not think about what has happened, it weakens the team,” he said. “I told you in the week that Hatyai were a good team and that they had younger players who are hungry for success, and today showed that. “Sadly our first choice goalkeeper was injured and

could not play, and we had to replace him with Witsanu who made some mistakes. “But we will fight and continue to fight, we cannot let one loss knock us down,” he added. Next up for Phuket FC is another league game where they will take on Yala FC on Sunday (Apr 3) again at Surakul Stadium. Kick-off for the game is set for 7pm and admission is B50 and free for kids with student ID card. The Phuket News is proud media sponsor of Phuket FC.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

SPORT 37

El Nino takes its toll Climate circle affects PGFC Classic fishing comp, along with oil prices FISHING

hoy me hearties and welcome to another month of Pirate Jimmy’s ramblings. A couple of months ago I wrote about the El Nino affect, which unfortunately for the PGFC’s (Phuket Game Fishing Club) annual competition was still causing unseasonal weather, which seemed to have lured all the billfish down here to Chalong rather than their usual Similan’s habitat, for as we continued on our “Billfish Bonanza”, which has now lasted since November, while this very popular annual event, although seeing the beasties

caught none. The trials and tribulations of fishing, or: - “It’s better to sit in a boat and think of God, than it is to sit in church and think of fishing.” As the competitors will have found, wind does not necessarily mean swell, but it does create chop, white caps or white horses as they are known as back in my “pirate” homeland, Aarrr, Scotland, where the infamous Blackbeard came from. Ow Aarrr. White caps make trolling much more luck dependant as you need to steam right over the fish for them to see your lures amid the surface commotions caused by the “chop”.

Trolling multiple lines also needs a lot of expertise, as the slightest mistake or lack of attention can lead to an abundance of “knitting” (fishing expression for tangled lines) and the inexperienced can spend most of their time untangling lines, and if they are really raw and using “braid”, would spend their time cutting and destroying lots of this much more expensive line, which in my view was not designed for multiple trolls, especially in weather, when no one volunteers for Crow’s Nest duty. This year’s competition was also adversely affected by the fall in the price of oil, as many of the PGFC’s members

Aussie and Brit take Champions League BOWLS A TOTAL OF 16 INTERNAtional bowlers braved the searing Phuket heat to challenge for this year’s Champions League finals at Kamala Lawn Bowls Club. In a change to previous year’s format, this year’s pairs were drawn at random. In League 1, coming through undefeated, were American Larry Fitpatrick and Swede Ulf Egerstad, second were Welshman Rich Tuck and Br it Dean Sy m monds. In League two, winning on points difference, were Aussie Dean Lambert and Brit Bernie Rodgers, second were new boys David Nicholl and Ned Symons from News Zealand who came back from an horrific 1-19 loss in their first round league match to qualify. After two pulsating semifinals, winning through to the final by scores of 7-5 and 7-4 respectively were Bernie and Dean and David and Ned. In the final, having now mastered the conditions and speed of the lanes, yet still being definite underdogs, David and Ned were looking for revenge from that first game pasting by Bernie and Dean. Bernie and Dean somehow raced into a 9-0 lead after 5 ends, however, the quality of bowling from David and Ned did not warrant a deficit that large, but perhaps also demonstrating the quality of bowls, end after end, that Bernie and Dean produced. In fading light, the stan@thephuketnews

dard of bowls remained high, particularly from Dean and Bernie, the latter who by now was suffering severely from cramp. And though David and Ned tried valiantly to reduce the deficit, Bernie and Dean used all their guile to run out comprehensive winners 11-0. The scoreline was particularly unfair on such a competitive effort by David and Ned. It was a tough competition that required a high standard over 40 ends of bowling, and Bernie and Dean proved in the end that quality and experience

Dean (left) and Bernie are presented with the Champions League trophy by club owner Nid. usually prevails. For further information on Lawn Bowls in Kamala (all equipment provided) contact the club on 087 708 1792.

Jimmy and another famous “maddie” with a nice Sailfish. are in the industry and had been “laid-off”, which in turn led to a few cancellations. So it’s fingers crossed for next year, best of luck guys. I am often asked about the dangers of fishing, and forgetting normal boating hazards, it’s knowing your fish and knowing how to land them. For example, the Queen Fish, a very innocent looking fish, but this nasty has a set of extremely sharp barbs along its dorsal which sting like the

cat-o-nine tails. And there’s also a method for pulling in a billfish which will help you avoid getting skewered like a kebab. This involves handling the bill from above as opposed to the more natural way, from underneath. As from above your elbow will break away from your body if the fish decided to kick. Best advice, leave it to the pros. Basically, it’s mostly common sense, and really there is

nothing out there as dangerous as a Chinese guy riding a rented motorbike, on the wrong side of the road, taking a “selfie” at Nai Harn view-point. And this month’s Hot News. Trish is now speaking to me again. I ask you, “what was wrong with ‘his & hers’ spinning rods and reels for Valentine’s Day?” Tight lines Jimmy fishinginphuket.com

38 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

‘Swim around Phuket’ SWIMMING

continued from page 40 ...and ecosystems for the wellbeing of the sea turtles that nest in the Sirinath National Marine Park and the surrounding areas. “I’ve known Jonas my entire racing career,” said McCormack, who is also Thanyapura’s executive chairman. “I believe he’s the perfect athlete with the endurance engine and the will to be the first person [on record] ever to swim around Phuket. “When he took on this challenge, we decided to put our full organisational support behind him, hosting him and his team from Apollo Travel Group as they prepared for the swim.” Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada presided over the swim launch. He said, “We support the campaign for Jonas Colting to be the first man to swim around the island, which is a great way to promote Phuket’s beautiful beaches and clean water. It is

also in line with promoting sports and tourism on the island of Phuket.” This event would not be possible without the support of Phuket Province, Thanyapura Phuket, Apollo Travel Group, Lee Marine, Oceanline Sunscreen, Yaowawit School, JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa Mai Khao, The Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, Tourism and Sports Phuket Office, and The Marine Police and Marine Department in Phuket.

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS

Jonas is hoping to achieve the swim around the island over the course of eight days.

“Swim Around Phuket” Itinerary 30 March – 6 April 2016 (Daily 7am to 1pm) 30 March - Day 1

JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, Mai Khao – Trisara (14 km)

31 March - Day 2

Trisara – Merlin Beach Resort Patong (16 km )

1 April - Day 3

Merlin Beach Resort Patong – The Nai Harn (15 km)

2 April - Day 4

The Nai Harn – Sri Panwa Resort (14 km)

3 April - Day 5

Sri Panwa Resort – Phuket Villa Resort, Coconut Island (15 km)

4 April - Day 6

Phuket Villa Resort, Coconut Island – Ao Por Grand Marina (15 km)

5 April - Day 7

Ao Por Grand Marina – Phuket Yacht Haven (15 km)

6 April - Day 8

Phuket Yacht Haven - JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, Mai Khao (15 km)

Run #1574: Saturday April 2, 2016 Run Start Time: 4PM Hares: Tiger, Cobbler, Pawn Shop, Top Off, Minnie Mouse Location: Heroines Monument - 350 Metres West Directions: From Hero ines Monument travel west [4025] toward Cherng Talay approximately 350 metres and turn left through the rubber plantation, continue about 450m to laager site behind Honda service center. From Cherng Talay approximately 350m before Heroines Monument turn right and follow as above. B u s p i c k- u p : Patong @ Expat Hotel: 2:30pm Kamala @ Black Cat’s Bar: 3pm More info: phuket-hhh. com

Stars shine at 2nd Laguna Phuket Junior Golf tourney Dirty Nellies join GOLF CLOSE TO 50 J U NIOR golfers from around Phuket competed at the 2nd Laguna Phuket Junior Golf Tournament held in partnership with the British International School Phuket last Sunday (Mar 27). Played over the awardwinning Laguna Golf Phuket’s 18-hole golf course, the juniors were thrilled with the fun yet challenging windy conditions. Aimed at growing the game of golf, Laguna Golf Phuket has created this event to nurture junior golfing talents coming from the Southern regions of Thailand. “Having successfully hosted our 1st Laguna Phuket Junior Golf Tournament last

Overall Boys Champion Kittiphong Phaithuncharoensuk, 15, tees off from the first hole. June, it is fantastic to see so many young golfers continuing to play and practice at our golf course to improve their game”, said Director of Golf Paul Wilson. Chanisara Kruakaew, 16, won the Overall Girls Championship, whilst 15-year-old

Kittiphong Phaithuncharoensuk scored a remarkable gross 69 (2-under par) to become the Overall Boys Champion for 2016. In an effort to inspire and develop the youth, Laguna Golf Phuket awarded both Overall Champions a junior golf membership until the end

of 2016. Wilson enthused, “Our event provides a real tournament experience for junior golfers aged 6-18 years old. Creating a “Tour Event” with divisional prizes and trophies, topped with goodie bags, oncourse branding and F&B stations, the juniors have a platform to gain valuable experience under tournament conditions and make new friends coming from other schools. “They also learn about the physical, mental and technical aspects of their game - thriving at their best always. This event is achievable through the joint efforts of Laguna Golf Phuket team, British International School Phuket and all the wonderful event sponsors,” he said.

Natalie at top of PPL POOL LAST WEEK IN THE PATONG Pool League (PPL), Natalie Bar failed to win for a second week running going down 5-6 away to Champs, and missing out on a chance to go clear at the top of the PPL table. Gilles made his return after over a months absence, and despite being ill played very well. He potted the black in the final doubles game giving Champs the 6 points. Dirty Nellies played away at Genius but were unable to take advantage of Natalie losing and lost 7-4 with Bam Bam winning the killer.

Ting Tong played at home against Old Sailor and won comfortably with a comfortable 8-3 win. However, the biggest win of the night came with Martin Swiss beating Andaman Sea 9-2 win. Sports Bar were due to take on Simon & Oils, but the game had to be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances and the game was rescheduled to be played on Wednesday (when The Phuket News goes to print). The results mean that Dirty Nellies and Natalies are now equal leaders at the top of the PPL table on 72 point. However, Natalie have a one game one game in hand.

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

SPORT 39

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Cruyff ‘belongs to whole world’ - son FOOTBALL

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MONTHLY SPONSOR

The overall competition winner receives 1 voucher staying 2 nights in a Prestige Suite including breakfast for 2 persons and a 30-minute spa treatment at Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, overall value THB 90,000. The monthly competition winner for April will receive a B5,000 voucher to spend at any Two Chefs outlet on the island.

EPL PREDICTIONS

utch football great Johan Cruyff “belongs to the whole world”, his son Jordi Cruyff said on Tuesday (Mar 29) as he visited a memorial in honour of the former Barcelona player and manager at Camp Nou. Cruyff, who is credited with reinvigorating the club and helping to launch its winning era, died last Thursday (Mar 24) in his adopted city of Barcelona aged 68 after a five-month battle with lung cancer. He chose to live his final days in privacy and his funeral was last Friday (Mar 25) with just a few family and friends invited, his son Jordi Cruyff, dressed in mourning black, said. “We understood that Johan is not only ours, he belongs to the whole world,” he said. “As a family we are incredibly proud of how people have reacted and we are very touched and impressed,” he added. “Barca, Ajax and the Dutch national team were his footballing loves and so it’s great that these three entities have shown such respect and support.” Barcelona said that since last Saturday (Mar 26) more than 50,000 mourners had filed past the spot where a banner hangs saying “Thanks Johan” to pay their respects to the club’s legendary former player and coach. Tuesday was the last day that the stadium was open for fans to pay their respects. It was also the first day that members of the Cruyff family were present. Cruyff, who first moved to Barcelona from Ajax Amsterdam in 1973, is often listed among the greatest players ever, alongside Pele, Alfredo

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1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

MONTHLY STANDINGS phils64 Aays celticpride chook fazza

18 17 17 17 17

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

OVERALL STANDINGS celticpride 137 graeme64 136 phils64 136 chook 134 fazza 133

English Premier League 2015 - 2016 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

A big screen shows late former Netherlands international footballer Johan Cruyff during a minute of applause in his memory during the friendly football match between England and Netherlands at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday (Mar 29). Photo: Glyn Kirk/AFP di Stefano, Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. Earlier on Tuesday Barcelona coach Luis Enrique praised the club’s former player and manager Johan Cruyff as having embodied “spectacular football and results”, as he visited a memorial in honour of the Dutchman at Camp Nou on Tuesday. “To talk about Cruyff is to talk about football at its best,” said Enrique, who was accompanied by two of Barcelona’s star players Sergio Busquets and captain Andres Iniesta. Barcelona’s first team visited the memorial after training on Tuesday morning, during which the players observed a minute’s silence in honour of Cruyff. “[Cruyff] leaves behind

a very important legacy, a legacy that his club will perpetuate, we want to copy and improve this style of play which combines results and a spectacular attacking football,” said Enrique. When Cruyff arrived at Barcelona the team were second bottom in the league. But they won 17 games in a row to win their first La Liga title in 14 years. The relationship between player, club and fans became even stronger after he took over as head coach in 1988. In an eight-year spell in charge he won four consecutive league titles, and Barcelona’s first European Cup in 1992. Spain’s Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport on Tuesday posthumously

awarded Cruyff its Gold Medal of the Royal Order of Sports Merit, one of Spain’s top sports honours. The ministry said a ceremony will be held at a yet-todetermine date to official give the award to Cruyff’s family. Barcelona said a minute of silence would be observed in honour of the player, and a video tribute to his career will be shown, tomorrow (Apr 2) at Camp Nou before the club’s league match against arch rivals Real Madrid. The club’s players will wear jerseys with the message “Thanks Johan” while the roughly 90,000 fans in the stands will hold up cards to spell out the same message. AFP

18 19 20

Team

MP W

A GD Pts

Leicester Tottenham Arsenal Man City West Ham Man Utd Southampton Stoke Liverpool Chelsea West Brom Everton Bournemouth Watford Swansea Crystal Palace Norwich Sunderland Newcastle Aston Villa

31 31 30 30 30 30 31 31 29 30 30 29 31 30 31 30 31 30 30 31

9 10 7 6 11 8 8 7 8 11 9 11 8 7 9 6 7 8 7 7

3 4 7 9 6 8 10 11 9 9 11 9 13 13 13 15 17 16 17 21

54 56 48 52 47 38 41 34 45 45 30 51 38 30 31 32 32 36 29 22

31 24 30 32 35 27 32 37 40 41 37 41 50 32 40 40 54 55 55 58

19 17 16 15 13 14 13 13 12 10 10 9 10 10 9 9 7 6 6 3

23 32 18 20 12 11 9 -3 5 4 -7 10 -12 -2 -9 -8 -22 -19 -26 -36

66 61 55 51 50 50 47 46 44 41 39 38 38 37 36 33 28 26 25 16

Live Sports TV Schedule *Times may be subject to change

SPORT

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Friday 01st Apr

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

Rugby Union 13:30 23:55 Rugby League 16:00

15:30 01:45 18:00

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Highlanders v. Western Force Lions v. Crusaders Titans v. Broncos

Rugby League 13:30 15:30 Rugby Union 13:30 15:40 22:00 00:10 Soccer 18:45 21:00 21:00 21:00 23:30 Motor Bikes 22:30 Motor Racing 18:55 21:30

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Rugby League 11:00 15:00 Rugby Union 20:55 Soccer 19:25 22:00 Cricket 15:30 20:30 Motor Racing 21:00 21:45 Motor Bikes 22:30

13:00 17:00 22:45 21:30 00:00 19:30 00:30 21:45 00:30 00:30

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Roosters v. Warriors Eels v. Panthers (delayed) Wasps v. Northampton Leicester v. Southampton Man United v. Everton Final Final Raceday, Sakhir Bahrain Grand Prix Motul Grand Prix, Argentina

Saturday 02nd Apr

Sunday 03rd Apr

Sport

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor3@classactmedia.co.th

Mistakes cost Phuket FC valuable 3 points > page 35

HE’S OFF! ENDURANCE

he first-ever “Swim Around Phuket” kicked off on Wednesday morning (Mar 30) led by Swedish Ultraman World Champion Jonas Colting, aiming to circumnavigate the island of Phuket over eight days. Colting led a group of swimmers including four-time triathlon World Champion Chris McCormack on the first leg of 14 kilometres from the JW Marriott Resort & Spa Mai Khao to the Trisara villa resort. The swim trek will then proceed every day from 7am to 1pm in a counter-clockwise route around the island passing the Andaman beaches, the famous sunset point Laem Phromthep and Chalong Pier. The route will then turn northward past Ao Por

Swedish Ultraman World Champion Jonas Colting begins his epic swim.

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016

Pier, pass under the Sarasin Bridge and curve down to end again at Mai Khao beach. Before commencing the first leg, Colting said, “I’m very excited and looking forward to getting started on this adventurous and inspirational journey around beautiful Phuket! My preparations have gone well but I have a lot of respect for the challenges of averaging more than 15 kilometres per day in the ocean. My main concerns are the heat and the sun and I will make an effort to pace myself over the eight days.” Colting aims to raise funds for the Yaowawit orphanage school, which was first built to support victims of the tsunami 10 years ago and the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, which is committed to protecting the marine and coastal environment... Continued on page 38

thephuketnews