The Phuket News 03 May 2019

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FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

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HEAVY RAINS BRING END TO WATER SHORTAGES > PAGE 2

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NEWS

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National forest luxury mansion deemed illegal

LIFE

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Rediscover Thai cuisine at The Plantation Club

Phuket Governor Phakaphong Tavipatana pays homage to His Majesty The King during a ceremony earlier this week. Photo: Phuket PR

ROYAL CORONATION EVENTS HELD IN PHUKET The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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he Phuket office of the Public Relations Department of T hailand has released a notice announcing the official public events to be held to mark t he Royal Coronat ion of H is Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun this weekend.

The events are as follows: Saturday, May 4 7am: Merit making ceremony and ceremony to pay respect to HM The King at Wat Phra Thong in Thalang.

9am – 5pm: Live broadcast of the nationally televised program at Wat Phra Thong. Volunteers will be present to provide assistance. People attending the event must wear a yellow shirt.

Sunday, May 5 8:40am – Midday and 4pm – 10pm:

Ceremony to pay respects to His Majesty the King, and screening of the live broadcast of the nationally t elev ise d prog r a m at Phu ket Provincial Hall in Phuket Town.

People attending the event must wear a yellow shirt.

Monday, May 6 8am: Royal Coronation event volunteers to hold a mass cleanup of Bang Yai Canal under the Royal project “We do good things with our

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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hearts”. Participants are to meet at the 4,000-seat indoor gymnasium at Saphan Hin. 4pm – 5:50pm. Ceremony to pay respect to His Majesty The King at Phuket Provincial Hall, led by Phuket Governor Phakaphong Tavipatana.

Screening of the live broadcast at Phuket Provincial Hall of the Royal Blessing Ceremony at the Suddhaisavarya Prasad Hall in the Grand Palace in Bangkok…

SPORT

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Bangers Belles back to defend Rugby 10s title

News 2

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FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

French Amb raises tourist safety, trash issues > p5

Heavens open to bring relief

Downpours over three days see household water supply restored Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

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s the rain continues to soak Phuket this week, the Chief of the Phuket office of the Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) confirmed that water pressure in mains supply pipes to residents and businesses across most of the island has been restored to near full normal pressure.

The news follows heavy downpours late last Saturday night (Apr 27), which returned to douse the island on Monday and Tuesday.

On Saturday night, the Phuket Town area enjoyed some 78.4mm of rainfall, mostly within a three-hour period, confirmed Roongrawee Aonkot, Director of the Southern Meteorological Center (West Coast) office of the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD).

At last repor t, last Wednesday (Apr 23), Phuket had enjoyed only 86.5mm of rainfall across the whole island since the beginning of the year.

T hat f ig u re ca me a s Phuket Governor Phakaphong Tavipatana ordered all local administrations to ensure that

Water from an official extra water source being filled by runoff in the Bang Yai Canal is being used to help refill the Bang Wad reservoir in the hills of Kathu. Photo: Supplied all residents had access to emergency household water supply, despite the Governor assuring that Phuket was not in a “drought crisis”.

However, despite the Governor’s assurance, the Army last week started rolling out emergency water supplies to communities that had been without tap water for a month.

The island’s reservoirs had hit the lowest levels ever recorded and the water supply was continually being reduced

in a bid to make what water was left in the island’s three main reservoirs last as long as possible.

Meanwhile, the supply of emergency water continued across the island. As recently as last Saturday, the Royal T h a i Nav y T h i rd A r e a Command rolled out some 54,000 litres of emergency supply water to households in need in Wichit.

Even the Royal Rain­ makers from the Southern

Royal Rainmaking Operation Center in Surat Thani were on standby in Phuket ready to try again to create rain despite three failed attempts since Mar 29.

Then the rains came.

Phuket PWA Branch Manager Graisorn Mahamad told The Phuket News on Tuesday (Apr 30), “Water pressure in the mains supply pipes has been restored back to nearly full.

“Most flat areas in Phuket

supplied by mains pipes have about 90% pressure. However, some areas in elevated parts, such as in Rassada, might still not have full pressure,” he added.

In explaining why the Soi Kingkaew area in Rassada, which is at sea level, has been suffering without running wa t e r d u e t o “ r e d u c e d pressu re”, M r G raisor n noted that the mains pipes that supply the impoverished neighbourhood must cross over hills to reach the area.

Mr Graisorn also explained that the return to near-normal water pressure for most areas comes from supply being boosted from extra sources being used to provide water, not from Bang Wad reservoir in Kathu, the island’s main reservoir for public water supply.

“Bang Wad is now just under 10% full, which is not enough for us to be comfortable with supplying full water pressure. We will restore the pressure to 100% when Bang Wad reaches 50% capacity,” he said.

“Because of the heavy rainfall over the past few days, we can now get a lot of water from the Bang Yai Canal (in the hills in Kathu, before it

reaches heavily populated areas). That is where we are getting the water to fill our extra water sources,” he said.

Last Saturday alone saw Bang Wad receive about 40,000 cubic meters of water directly from rainfall, Mr Graisorn noted.

“When you add the extra water we pumped into the reservoir from official water sources, Ban Wad was boosted by about 75,000m 3 just on Saturday,” he added.

The water levels at the three main reservoirs on the island are still low but rising, Mr Graisorn, explained.

As of Tuesday (Apr 30), the three reservoirs have enough water to last the island an estimated 32 days, according to the latest readings.

Bang Wad reservoir as of Monday (Apr 29) contained an estimated 0.82 million m3 of its 10mn-plus m3 capacity, Mr Graisorn said.

The Bang Neow Dum reservoir in Srisoonthorn, which also serves much of the Cherng Talay area, on Monday contained about 0.77mn m3 of water, and the Khlong Kratha reservoir contains about 0.97mn m 3 of water of its 4.2mn m3 capacity, Mr Graisorn confirmed.

Public events for Royal Coronation cermony Continued from page 1 ...Government officers are to wear full white uniform, sash and peaked caps. Members of the public must wear a yellow shirt. Volunteers must wear their volunteer uniforms.

Tuesday, May 7 5pm: Ceremony to celebrate the blessings of HM The King at Wat Tha Ruea, in Thalang.

May 19-28 Special traditional storytelling music and dance performances to honour His Majesty The King to be held at Phuket Provincial Hall. More details to be announced.

An estimated 150,000 people are expected to turn

Phuket residents obtain their Royal Coronation pins at Big C on Tuesday (Apr 30). Photo: PR Dept out at Sanam Luang in Bangkok for His Majesty the King’s coronation ceremonies this weekend. Visitors are expected to pack the grounds and surrounding roads near the Grand Palace to pay their respects to the King, who will perform the liap

phranakhon ritual on Sunday (May 5), during which His Majesty will make a short trip to several parts of the capital. (See page 7.)

Meanwhile, to honour the historic event, the Royal Thai Government has embarked on a number of arrangements in

preparation for the ceremony.

It has established the National Commission on the Royal Coronation Ceremony and other related committees and subcommittees to handle various relevant functions and activities for this important occasion.

The Royal Coronation Ceremony on May 4-6 will be televised by the Television Pool of Thailand and on the Thai TV Global Network for viewers in 170 countries worldwide. As such the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission has ordered that broadcasters deliver feeds from state agencies to make sure the correct stateprovided footage is provided.

(See page 10.) thephuketnews

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PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

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Luxury mansion found illegal Buildings ordered to be removed for breaching 80-metre limit Waranya Prompinpiras reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

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luxury mansion being built in the hills above the Bang Wad reservoir in Kathu will be ordered to be removed for violating the ban on all construction more than 80 metres above sea level, The Phuket News has confirmed Kathu Municipality officials also confirmed to The Phuket News that the luxury mansion is being built illegally as their office have not issued a building permit for the project.

Kathu Municipality officials began their investigation into the construction of the house after it was brought to their attention by local residents last Wednesday (Apr 24).

“The owner of the house has not applied for a building permit,” confirmed Tassanee Saetong, Chief Administrative Officer (Palad) at Kathu Municipality.

“But even if they did, we certainly would not have approved it,” she told The Phuket News.

“The construction breaches the Building Control Act, under which construction must not be more than 80 meters above sea level. This house is 130 meters above sea level,” Ms Tassanee explained.

“It is illegal,” she said.

The luxury house compound is on private land overlooking the Bang Wad reservoir, but surrounded by protected national forest, says the Phuket Land Office. Photo: Supplied “Next we will proceed according to the regulations of the Building Control Act. All construction will be suspended and all structures already built will be ordered to be removed,” Ms Tassanee confirmed.

“We will issue the notice to the house owner in accordance with the regulations of the Building Control Act,” she said.

Mrs Tassanee declined to confirm when the notice will be issued.

“Right now we are compiling all the information needed to issue the

order. Also, I want extra information for this case,” she said.

LAND CLAIMS Amnuay Pinsuwan of the Phuket Provincial Land Office explained that although the house is in the middle of a protected national forest, it is on legally owned land.

The house and other buildings under construction within the compound are all located on a single plot of 10 rai that is currently owned by three women, Mr Amnuay explained

Chalong Underpass on target for completion by the end of this month T H E PROJ ECT ENGIneer overseeing the construction of the long-awaited Chalong Underpass has warned motorists that surfacing of the roads through the critical junction that began on Tuesday (Apr 30) will bring traffic delays.

The work is expected to take two days, Somkiet Yimpong, Project Manager at the Phuket office of the Highways Department, told The Phuket News last week.

“We will not close any roads, so no new maps for redirected traffic is necessary,” he said, “but the roads will be paved one section at a time to allow traffic to pass.

“We will need to close the lane that we are working on – and that will cause traffic delays.”

Mr Somkiet is confident that the underpass will open before the end of May. “We have had to postpone the opening of the underpass (from the Songkran deadline previously hoped for),” he said.

“We are now looking at opening the underpass to @thephuketnews

Chalong Underpass is on target to open to traffic by the end of May. Photo: Phuket Highways Dept traffic by about May 28. It will be open by no later than May 30, which is the official date for project completion according to the contract,” he added.

Mr Somkiet explained that the workers are currently installing lights, fumeextraction fans and water pumps in the tunnel.

“R ight now, overall construction is about 85% complete, but we haven’t finished installing the security systems yet. That work needs to be done very carefully,” he added.

“Also, construction of the golden lotus tower (in

the centre of the roundabout) isn’t finished yet. It sill needs more work, and more lotus flower motifs added, but that will be finished on schedule in May, too,” Mr Somkiet said.

Mr Somkiet added that he had yet to be informed of any official name that the underpass is to be formally dedicated.

“We have not set a grand opening date yet,” he told The Phuket News last Thursday (Apr 25).

Waranya Prompinpiras Additional reporting by Tanyaluk Sakoot

to The Phuket News. The three women – Supatra Jaruariyanon, Natchaya Gohsaiyawat and Jiranon Thamchu – bought the land from Mano Kiewkram on Feb 9, 2016, he said in a statement issued last Thursday (Apr 25).

The statement was issued specifically to clarify facts currently being disputed on Thai social media websites.

Explaining the history of the land, Mr Amnuay noted that the Governor at the time on Dec 15, 2011 approved for a Chanote to be issued for the land in Mr Mano’s name.

The Land Office on Feb 24, 2012 ruled no disagreement for issuing the Chanote, and issued the actual Chanote land title document on Mar 9, 2012.

A copy of the Chanote has been presented to The Phuket News.

Mr Amnuay also explained that the Chanote issued to Mr Mano was issued on the basis of a SorKor 1 land document issued to a Mr Chuan Janerop.

“The SorKor 1 proved possession of the land before the area was declared a national protected forest area,” Mr Amnuay explained.

However, how or why the land was issued a Chanote to Mr Mano on the basis of a SorKor 1 issued to

Mr Chuan was not explained.

WOOD FOR TREES Paisarn Noopichai, Director of the Phuket office of the Royal Forest Department, told The Phuket News that he is investigating whether the land claimed encroaches on the protected national forest.

“I have spoken with Kathu Municipality officials and confirmed that the house was built without a building permit. Now we are checking more detailed information with the Phuket Land Office,” Mr Paisarn said.

“We are checking whether the land is legally owned and whether any structures on the land encroach on the national forest reserve.

“We are also checking whether the boundaries for the land claimed have been extended beyond those marked on the land documents,” he said.

“The area where the house is being built is a protected national forest,” Mr Paisarn confirmed.

“But if the house being built is on land that was owned before the area was declared a protected forest, that will be permitted by law – but the construction must be in accordance with the Building Control Act,” he said.

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PHUKET NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM PHUKET SEVEN DAY WEATHER FORECAST

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Tourist in taxi wipeout

Chinese hurt as Consul talks safety with Governor The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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ne Chinese tourist was injured when the taxi he was travelling in struck a roadside power pole then spun into a passing garbage truck on Thepkrasattri Rd early last Friday morning (Apr 26).

Thalang Police were called to the scene, on the curve south of the Heroines Monument about 50 metres from the Jeeteng mansion at 4:30am.

Police and Srisoonthorn Municipality rescue workers arrived to find a white Toyota Altis taxi with green licence plates that had sustained heavy damage in the accident.

The front left wheel and front door both had been

The taxi was taking two Chinese men from the airport to Patong when it hit the power pole. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub ripped off from the car entirely by the force of the impact.

One of the two Chinese tourists travelling in the taxi was injured, reported Thalang Police Deputy Chief Lt Col Phichai Phupommin.

The tourist, Peng Quan, 29, from Hunan, was bleeding

heavily from the head. He was taken to Thalang Hospital for treatment.

The taxi driver, Prasong Pinatha, 35, was disoriented from his head hitting the windscreen in the impact, but was otherwise not hurt, Col Phchai noted.

Col Phichai said that following initial investigations police believe taxi driver Mr Prasong “likely” fell asleep at the wheel.

He had picked up the Chinese tourists at Phuket International Airport and was taking them to a hotel in Patong when the accident happened.

The taxi struck the roadside power pole, then spun and struck the side of the garbage truck, which was following very closely behind, he said.

Mr Prasong and the garbage truck driver, Banphod Paicomenam, 36, were both taken to Thalang Police Station for further questioning.

No charges for either drivers were mentioned in the report.

The accident came less than 48 hours after Phuket Governor Phakaphong Tavipatana welcomed the Chinese Consul General in Songkhla, Ma Fengchun, at Phuket Provincial Hall to discuss the safety and promotion of Chinese tourism on the island.

After his talks with the Governor, Mr Ma said, “The purpose of my visit to Phuket is first to improve ChineseThai relations and second to discuss ideas on how to improve the safety of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand.

“I am very happy to hear that the Thai government has made the safety of Chinese tourists a priority and I will be sure to relay that information back to China,” Consul Ma said.

Suspect leads police to drug bust in Cherng Talay POLICE I N CH ER NG Talay arrested a man as he was about to carry out a drug deal at a petrol station on Srisoonthorn Rd last Sunday (Apr 28).

Two days previous, last Friday afternoon, police arrested another man, 38-yearold Akkawut Chinsri, with 0.66 grams of ya ice (crystal meth).

Akkawut told police about a planned drug deal that was to take place on Sunday afternoon at the PT Petrol Station in Baan Manik.

Officers acted on Akkawut’s information and waited at the petrol station at about 2pm last Sunday as Komsan Pratheep Na Thalang turned up on a motorbike acting suspiciously.

Officers approached Komsan and asked to search him but he resisted, assaulted them and tried to escape.

They managed to apprehend him and found ya ice and ya bah pills (methamphetamine) in a storage container on his motorbike.

Komsan was cuaght with an M16 rifle and more than 20,000 ya bah pills.

Photo: Cherng Talay Police They then escorted him to his rented accommodation in Cherng Talay where they found 20,666 ya bah pills, 328 grams of ya ice, an M16 rifle, 27 rounds of M16 ammunition, a Smith & Wesson handgun, 50 rounds of .357 bullets, digital scales and packs of small resealable plastic bags.

Komsan tried to escape from the room but police managed to catch him.

He was cha rged at Cherng Talay Police Station with possession of ya bah and ya ice with intent to supply, possession of a firearm without a licence and assaulting a police officer.

Eakkapop Thongtub thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

French Ambassador talks tourist safety, garbage

PHUKET NEWS

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The HMAS Canberra dropped anchor in Patong Bay on Saturday (Apr 27). Photo: PR Dept

The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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he French Ambassador to Thailand visited Phuket Governor Phakaphong Tavipatana at Phuket Provincial Hall last Friday (Apr 26) to discuss business and tourism projects, as well as safety and the activities of the French community on the island.

Waste management, including the handling of wastewater in Phuket, also hit the agenda.

France Ambassador Jacques Lapouge led the delegation, which included Counselor for Cooperation and Culture Fabian Forni, Second Secretary (Chief of Consular Section) Samira Abdelli and Honorary Consul in Phuket Claude de Crissey.

“At present, there are approximately 8,000 French people living in Phuket,” Amb Lapouge noted.

The French community was already involved in many investment-driven projects, he added, highlighting the BCIS Phuket International School now open in Chalong.

Other projects discussed included the light rail and several Phuket port projects, noted a report by the Phuket office of the Public Relations Department.

“This is a good opportunity to exchange information between each other, especially as Phuket is going to have a light-rail mass transit system in the

Australian flagship arrives for exercises

France Ambassador Jacques Lapouge (left) speaks with Phuket Governor Phakaphong Tavipatana at Phuket Provincial Hall on Friday (Apr 26). Photo: PR Dept future. In addition, France is interested in safety information, especially the tourism situation in Phuket, notably the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand after the Phoenix disaster,” Amb Lapouge said.

Governor Phakaphong explained, “Phuket has set a policy to focus on creating safety standards for both land and water transport. The number of Chinese tourists visiting Phuket after the boat incident (the Phoenix disaster, which killed 47 Chinese tourists), has decreased.

“At present, Phuket is building confidence in the safety of tourists. Chinese

people are becoming more confident in traveling to Phuket,” he said.

Gov Phakaphong noted that Phuket has much to learn from the French in terms of waste management.

“Waste disposal in Thailand does not use waste separation, but in France there is clear separation of waste,” he said.

“France has a private-sector company that through innovation can separate up to 80% of waste, from which organic waste can be transformed into compost and fully utilised. It is hoped that there will be cooperation between each other in order to carry out such a project in waste management in Phuket,” he added.

Patong Mayor tables cable talks PATONG M AYOR CH A LER MLUCK Kebsup has announced that meetings will be held with local residents and businesses ahead of the project, commencing in July, to move power lines and fibre-optic cables underground.

Mayor Chalermluck on Monday last week (Apr 22) held a meeting with Patong Police and the project contractor to discuss the management of traffic flow during the construction work which is expected to last until March 2020.

The mayor ordered the contractor to compile a report outlining plans regarding traffic and parking during the scheduled eight-month period to be able to inform local residents and business owners of the impact the project will have on the area.

Mayor Chalermluck told The Phuket News last Friday (Apr 26), “The project will start from Pak Bang Canal at the southern end of the beach to Loma Park. The contractor will start drilling the road on July 1, 2019, and the project is scheduled to be completed by March, 2020.

“Construction work will only take place during the day from 9am to 5pm so as to avoid causing traffic during busy times,” she confirmed.

“After the Royal Coronation in May, I will invite residents and business owners located on the beachfront road (Thaweewong Rd) to discuss construction, traffic and parking plans.

“Now, the contractor is preparing to provide facilities such as lights and signs for the construction area. We will ensure that residents and businesses are not heavily impacted by the work,” the mayor insisted.

The project entails moving power lines @thephuketnews

Work is scheduled to commence in July to install power lines and communications cables underground along three kilometres of the Patong beach road. Photo: Patong Police and fibre-optic cables underground along Thaweewong Rd, from Khlong Pak Bang to Laem Phet Circle intersection. The total distance is approximately three kilometres.

Mayor Chalermluck revealed that the construction work will be separated into three sections.

Section one is from the Laem Phet Circle intersection to Loma Park, which will be done simultaneously with section three which is from the entrance to Bangla Rd to Khlong Pak Bang.

Section two – the road between sections one and three – will be done last to minimise congestion.

“The contractor will dig approximately 50 metres each day,” the mayor explained.

“Once the digging is complete, work will commence in December laying pipes and cables underground.

“Next, I will set up a budget for 2020 to the repair roads and pavements on Thaweewong Rd,” she added.

Waranya Prompinpiras

ROYA L AUST R A LI A N Navy (RAN) f lagship the HMAS Canberra dropped anchor in Patong Bay last Saturday (Apr 27), marking the beginning of a four-day stay in Phuket.

The Canberra, which is the largest ship in the Royal Australian Navy, arrived in Phuket along with HMAS Newcastle as part of the Royal Australian Navy Indo-Pacific Endeavour 19 (IPE 19) deployment, under which a total of 1,000 personnel will carry out a series of engagement activities and military training exercises during port visits in India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam.

In Phuket, personnel on board the Canberra and the Newcastle will take part in local military exercises as

well as key social projects.

Australian Ambassador to Thailand Allan McKinnon, said the visit is an important opportunity to cooperate in security and stability for the region.

“Thailand is a very important security partner for Australia. Our cooperation spans defence, counter-terrorism, border protection, combatting transnational crime and preventing human trafficking and people smuggling.”

On land, personnel on Monday assisted with a cleanup on Koh Siray. As mentioned in previous articles by The Phuket News, Koh Siray is the poorest area of Phuket, home to around 10,000 people, including a village of 1,000 sea gypsies, fishing workers and impoverished families.

(See page 6.) The Phuket News

Opinion 6

OPINION

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EDITORIAL

Saving the village

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he community project to transform the village at Koh Siray into a clean, self-sustaining “ecosystem” is a formidable challenge, but one worthy of taking note.

Personnel from the HMAS Canberra visited the village on Monday (Apr 29) to participate in a clean-up and help establish the kindergarten as a sustainable centre with fresh drinking water and a garden.

The visit was part of a wider goodwill project sponsored by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade with some lofty goals: to transform Koh Siray and reduce waste to zero.

However, the project does tick very big boxes in what is needed to make this happen: it aims to break the poverty cycle by promoting local waste management and increasing household incomes by empowering villagers to create products to

sell in local markets.

These are among the poorest people in Phuket, simple villagers who live on the fringe of society. Any extra form of income is most welcome, and likely to motivate.

Most arguments for saving the planet from plastic tend to shy away from the motivation needed for the tremendous change required to achieve this.

The short of it is that the result in the change in behaviour must have immediate positive benefit to each person involved.

Yes, selfish it is, and selfish does work. Think hotels and the latest fad of banning single-use plastics. There is no argument here, but it cannot be denied that it is a great selling point and literally costs the hotel less to implement, while doing the right thing.

Compare that to the people still dumping piles of garbage beside our roads all over the

island. No direct immediate benefit for not doing so results in zero change in behaviour, no matter how wrong it is.

The empowerment of villagers to understand that tackling pollution is nothing more than a personal responsibility is crucial. Global pollution can be defeated by the combined willingness of individuals.

Also, for motivation, as soon as there’s an understanding that waste has value, people will find a way of making money from it – and the object will literally not go to waste.

Further, if successful, the Koh Siray village project will prove one thing: if it can be done there, it can be done anywhere. If people living among such impoverished conditions can change their own little world, there is no excuse for anyone else living beyond those meagre incomes for not doing the same.

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Royal Rainmakers on standby in Phuket despite three failed attempts Chinese tourist injured as Phuket taxi wipes out en route from airport to Patong Luxur y mansion amid Phuket protected forest to be removed Air Force officer stomped to death by husband in front of children Army starts rolling in emergency water supply to Phuket Phuket Opinion: Reflections Phuket residents flame Governor over water shortages Man holds box cutter to own throat at Phuket bank, taken safely into custody Patong Mayor to discuss underground cable plan with businesses, residents Phuket has enough water, not a drought crisis: Governor

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

HAVE YOUR SAY Safety first

Re: Chinese Consul General meets Phuket Governor to discuss tourist safety It’s a carousel. Chinese (semi) diplomats feel they must see this Phuket governor regularly to remind him about the safety of Chinese tourists to make sure the governor doesn’t forget. They know well that present safety is the same as before, just luck. Sure there is some safety window dressing, but that is all show.

Nothing has changed. Just a press show.

Kurt Re: Chinese tourist injured as Phuket taxi wipes out en route from airport to Patong Wasn’t it yesterday some high level politicians from Thailand and China met and talked about safety in Thailand? Well... that went well.

Thomas Tjäder

Drought doubt

Re: Phuket residents flame Governor over water shortages Reservoirs that are empty.

Provincial Waterworks Authority having to pump water

from private sources. Water pressure so low that a holding tank won’t even fill. Many people without water for over a month already. Whatever you do, don’t tell the truth about all this. It may harm our tourism image. The fact is those reservoirs are not going to fill because demand is far greater than supply. Plan ahead? No! Timothy This governor won’t stay long if his concern is prioritising tourists over residents.

Mari Okawa Re: Rassada community gratefully receives army water supplies Totally disgusting that these poor people have to go without water and pay for water out of their own pocket when the affluent parts of the island have been given free water. Oh and of course there is no drought. That would affect our tourist numbers.

Rich Starkey Re: Governor pushes watershortage solutions “We will not charge residents any costs for emergency water provided,” the governor assured," and so they shouldn’t.

It isn’t the fault of the residents, you are the incumbent authority who has failed miserably to perform your duties.

Rorri_2

Full speed ahead

Re: Thailand’s new Formula One flag-bearer Alex Albon is a great talent. I’ve seen him race over the years in junior categories.

He’s got a great work ethic, and unlike other drivers his generation he didn’t do it off the back of daddy’s big bank account. The irony is he only just got the seat at Toro Rosso last minute, and was meant to drive for Formula E Nissan 2019. He’s definitely got potential to end up in a Red Bull seat if Gasly doesn’t step up the pace this year.

Jónhazel Fit This could be a great push in operating anything on wheels here in Thailand if promoted correctly.

Chris M Mulder Great driver, great attitude so far, although I don’t like the marketing thing to race under Thai flag. He grew up in England as far as I know. Not

sure whether he speaks Thai?

Steffen Singto

Beyond a joke

Re: New immigration chief to continue predecessor’s “good work” If there was no issue on the immigration issues plus carrying on his “good work”, why remove Big Joke with no reason given?

Jeff PS Immigration is now more of a profiteering organisation preying on the long-term tourists and international residents.

Re-entry permits, 90 day reports, house re-registration etc, hoping we don’t forget or are unavailable for any reason.

These stories fool nobody.

Who wants to stay here and be extorted?

Deeman Isalive Would be good if the new regulations made on the retirement visa were reverted to prior March 2019. They were more reasonable. The new changes have just made it harder for those long-term expats. The rationale for the change has been ineffective.

Gary Smith

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FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

THAILAND NEWS

7

150,000 to attend ceremony

Celebrants flock to Bangkok for first coronation in 69 years BANGKOK Bangkok Post

C

ity Hall is bracing for an influx of more than 150,000 people, expected to flock to Sanam Luang for His Majesty the King’s coronation ceremonies this weekend.

Visitors are expected to pack the grounds and surrounding roads near the Grand Palace to pay their respects to the King, who will perform the liap phranakhon ritual on Sunday (May 5), during which His Majesty will make a short trip to several parts of the capital, City Hall officials said.

A 21-gun salute will also be fired at the start of the trip, which is scheduled to begin at 4.30pm.

“About 200 medical teams will be on standby to take care of attendees every 100 metres along the route,” Phonthep Sae-Heng, chief of the city’s Erawan medical emergency

The Grand Palace in Bangkok. Photo: Bangkok.com centre, said on Monday (Apr 29).

The permanent secretary for the Prime Minister’s Office, Phatcharaphon Insiyong, also said on Monday that people have already begun responding to the government’s invitation to take part in the coronation celebrations, and a large crowd is expected to gather to catch a glimpse of His Majesty the King on the balcony of Sutthaisawan

Prasat Throne Hall, in the Grand Palace on Monday (May 6).

The event will also be broadcast live on TV, she said.

Ms Phatcharaphon said His Majesty wants everyone to be treated as his guests.

“The government will set up temporary cooking facilities to cater to those who turn up for the historic event, which will run from Saturday

Bridges up in lights for coronation BANGKOK THE DEPARTMENT OF RURAL ROADS, under the Ministry of Transport, has decorated lights along 13 bridges across the Chao Phra River in honour of His Majesty the King on the occasion of the Royal Coronation Ceremony.

The 13 bridges include Rama III Bridge, Rama IV Bridge, Rama V Bridge, Rama VII Bridge, Maha Chetsadabodinthranuson Bridge, Pin Klao Bridge, Memorial Bridge, Phra Pok Klao Bridge, King Taksin Bridge, Krung Thon Bridge, Bangkok Bridge, Bhumibol 1 Bridge and Bhumibol 2 Bridge.

The lights along these bridges will be turned on between 7pm and 10pm from April 1 to May 31, 2019. During the three-day Royal Coronation Ceremony, scheduled for May 4-6, 2019, the lights will be turned on between 6pm and 12am.

The general public and tourists are invited to appreciate the scenic views of the bridges with their colourful light decorations during this period.

The coronation of His Majesty King Maha @thephuketnews

through to Monday,” she said.

About 80,000 boxed meals will be prepared for attendees, Ms Phatcharaphon said.

That said, the permanent secretary added, those who wish to attend the events are advised to bring enough water, as well as umbrellas and hats, as high temperatures are expected throughout the weekend.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha, in his capacity as the chairman of the coronation committee, will convey best wishes on behalf of all Thais to the King, who is expected to make a speech afterwards, she said.

Those interested in seeing the King’s procession are advised to arrive as early as 3pm at the designated meeting point on Sanam Chai Road, said Ms Phatcharaphon.

“When His Majesty leaves the palace grounds at about 7pm, people will have the opportunity to see the King along the route of the royal motorcade,” she said.

At about 7pm, a light and sound show will begin in lieu of traditional fireworks – during which drones will be used to spell out the King’s coronation message, she said.

As more than a hundred thousand people are expected to converge on the venue for the celebrations, security will be beefed up and first aid services, drinking water, food as well as portable toilets will be provided, she said.

Public transport fares on routes leading to the coronation venue will also be waived, said Ms Phatcharaphon.

Bangkok Mass Transit System Plc (BTS), the operator of Bangkok’s skytrain service, will offer free rides on the skytrain’s main section between Mo Chit and On Nut stations on Sunday from 6am until midnight.

On Saturday and Monday, free rides will be offered throughout the entire skytrain network, said the company.

Platinum million-baht coins minted as country’s most valuable coin ever made BANGKOK

The capital has decorated 13 bridges with colourful lights for the coronation ceremony.

Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun (Rama X) will be the first coronation in the Kingdom of Thailand in seven decades. The previous Royal Coronation of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) took place on May 5, 1950.

On the occasion of the coronation of King Rama X, the government has urged the people to display the Royal Emblem on the Auspicious Occasion of the Coronation of King Rama X at their houses and offices in honour of the King.

The public has also been urged to wear yellow shirts bearing the royal emblem from April to July, as part of nationwide celebrations for the Royal Coronation Ceremony.

The Phuket News

PRIVATE ORGANISAtions and individuals have placed orders for the first batch of 200 souvenir coins worth B1 million apiece to mark the coronation of His Majesty the King.

They have been specially handcrafted from platinum to the highest standard and are the highest-value coins ever produced by the Royal Thai Mint. Only 1,000 will be made.

They feature an image of the King on one side and elaborate patterns symbolising the May 4 ceremony on the other.

“Even the air from peo-

The platinum-made B1 million souvenir coin. ple’s breath is not allowed to touch the surface of the coins because we want to prevent oxidation [which can cause rust],” Amnuai Primnawong, chief of the Royal Thai Mint, said on Wednesday (Apr 24).

Mr Amnuai explained that help was sought from a mint in Poland to produce

the ultra-exclusive coins.

The platinum coins are being sold as a set of three with no value engraved.

The other two are made of blackened silver and copper, worth B5,000 and B3,000, respectively.

The Royal Thai Mint is also producing a set of three souvenir coins with the values engraved. The centrepiece weighs 20 grams and is made of gold with a par value of B19,000. The set retails for B40,000.

The mint plans to set a cap of 50,000 gold coins, with one-fifth having already been ordered. It said orders can be placed until May 10.

Bangkok Post

THAILAND NEWS

8

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

Immigration chief settles in New commissioner to continue predecessor’s ‘good work’ BANGKOK Wassayos Ngamkham

F

resh from his move from the Border Patrol Police Bureau, newly appointed Immigration Bureau (IB) commissioner Pol Lt Gen Sompong Chingduang has given assurances that his performance will be up to scratch in his new role.

The former chief of the Border Patrol Police Bureau replaces Pol Lt Gen Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, a highprofile crime fighter who was mysteriously transferred from the IB to an inactive position early this month.

Pol Lt Gen Sompong insisted that even though his new job is different from his border patrol work, he will draw on his experience as an investigator with the Crime Suppression Division to boost the IB’s efficiency in screening foreign visitors to prevent transnational criminals from sneaking into the country.

“Although I came from the border patrol police, which is a different type of job, the IB

already has a well-organised system, with foreign and legal affairs divisions and a coordination unit. The new surroundings here should not be a problem for me,”' he said.

He told the Bangkok Post the IB’s job mainly involves safeguarding national security and providing assistance to tourists.

“If we focus too much on security, services for tourists will be affected, but if we are lax about security, the country could become a hideout for transnational criminals,” Pol Lt Gen Sompong said.

It is necessary for the IB to collaborate and share information with Interpol and the immigration authorities of other countries to keep track of foreign criminal gangs, he said.

“We want to assist good tourists who have purchasing power. They bring income to the country. As for security arrangements, we focus on checking backgrounds of various people with Interpol and immigration authorities in other countries,” Pol Lt Gen Sompong said.

He also said he had recently

Pol Lt Gen Sompong Chingduang.

Photo: Border Patrol Police Bureau instructed the IB’s investigation centre to work with other agencies to create a more connected system of logging foreign criminals.

The current priority is to crack down on pickpockets from neighbouring countries who target both Thais and foreign travellers during festivals and other key events, Pol Lt Gen Sompong said,

adding authorities had also been told to remain on high alert along border areas with natural channels through which these criminals can pass unmonitored.

He also said the IB is ramping up the use of biometric technology at international airports to guard against transnational criminals. Biometric identification, such as retina

scans, will play an increasingly important role in preventing the movement of criminals throughout the region.

On the issue of foreigners seeking asylum and resettlement in Thailand, Pol Lt Gen Sompong cited the recent case of a young Saudi woman who was stopped at Suvarnabhumi airport.

In January, Saudi teenager Rahaf Mohammed al-Qunan, 18, had arrived in Bangkok on a flight from Kuwait, claiming her family subjected her to physical and psychological abuse. She planned to seek asylum in Australia and feared she would be killed if repatriated by Thai immigration police who stopped her at the airport. Later she was granted asylum by Canada.

Asked whether he will continue with the policies of his predecessor – Pol Lt Gen Surachate – who was transferred to the Prime Minister’s Office, Pol Lt Gen Sompong said, “We’ll continue the good things started by the former IB chief. But if there are still things that need to be changed, we’ll fix them for the benefit

of the country.”

Addressing the issue of North Ko­reans trying to use Thailand as a waypoint to seek refuge in South Korea, Pol Lt Gen Sompong said all foreign nationals will be treated equally.

“We will handle the issue straightforwardly in compliance with rules and regulations. Any foreigners who are in Thailand must follow Thai laws,” he said.

Asked whether these North Korean refugees will be deported, he said that several aspects of their cases must be considered carefully before his agency decides on a final course of action.

“We have to come up with the best solution so that Thailand will not be affected. Our priority is to put the country’s benefits first,” Pol Lt Gen Sompong said.

“We will not try to please any particular country, or leave other countries upset. We must try to ensure any solutions are accepted by the international community while also complying with Thai laws.”

Bangkok Post

Vitisak Payalaw and Boonrod take a break during their morning constutional around Kaen Nakhon lake.

Photo: Chakrapan Nathanri

Survivor dog Boonrod already winning hearts in new home KHON KAEN T H E DOG R ESCU ED by oil platform workers in the Gulf of Thailand is settling in at his new home, and is already the darling of the neighbourhood after his first appearance in public on Monday (Apr 29).

Vitisak Payalaw, an offshore planner for Chevron Thailand Exploration and Production, took Boonrod on a flight from Hat Yai airport in Songkhla to Khon Kaen and then directly to

his home in Muang district on Sunday.

He said he had intended to travel by car to Khon Kaen, but changed his mind after thinking about the long 1,500km drive.

“Boonrod is fine. My mum gave him a bath after he arrived at his new home.

He is friends with everybody in the house,” he added.

Mr Vitisak was the first person to climb down from the oil platform to help after the dog was spotted in the sea and then pulled aboard on Apr 12. The platform is

220km offshore from Songkhla. The rescuers name the mystery dog “Boonrod”, meaning survivor, and Mr Vitisak decided to adopt him as a pet.

The lucky canine’s new owner took him for his first walk around Kaen Nakhon lake on Monday morning.

“Boonrod, Boonrod,” people called out his name as the dog and his owner walked by. One woman even wrapped a pha khao ma cloth around his body – a traditional welcome in Isan.

Chakrapan Nathanri thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

BUSINESS NEWS

9

Tourism warning flare

Dip in international arrivals, spending spurs caution The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

I

nternational tourist arrival and spending statistics released late last week have sent up a warning flare for the country’s tourism industry, with international arrivals and spending by international arrivals both showing marginal falls compared with the same period last year.

According to statistics released by the Ministry of Tourism & Sports last Thursday (Apr 25), international arrivals for March 2019 totalled 3,473,088, compared with 3,497,260 for March 28 – a fall of 0.69%.

Spending in March also fell to B184.45 billion for March 2019, compared with B186.886bn for March last year – a fall of 1.30%.

International passenger traffic at Phuket International Airport also fell during March, with 531,009 international arrivals and 623,462 international departures during the month bringing total international passenger traffic through the airport to 1,176,436.

Bill Barnett of hospitality consultancy C9 Hotelworks in a released issued last Sunday (Apr 28) noted, “To date, 2019 is shaping up to be a slightly volatile year for tourism to the island. Passenger arrivals at Phuket International Airport rose 1% year-on-year in January, yet took a step back in February with a substantial 6% decline.”

In February 2019, Phuket airport recorded 534,378 international arrivals and 604,859 international departures.

“While we are still early in the year, overall visitor arrivals to Thailand on a countrywide basis have lost ground compared to the same period in 2018, so in reality Phuket’s

@thephuketnews

Where is everybody? The number of Chinese tourists coming to Thailand is on the decline. Photo: Miguel Discart challenges match those of the entire country,” he said.

Overall, Thailand welcomed 10,795,248 visitor arrivals for the first quarter of 2019 an increase of 1.76% year-on-year, while estimated visitor spending for the quarter reached B573.798bn, an increase of 0.38% year-on-year.

Main market China accounted for a 1.87% fall in visitor arrivals during March, from 1,004,030 last year to 985,232 this year, but a 1.07% increase in visitor spending from B56.077bn in March last year compared with B56.678bn in March this year.

Overall, however, Mainland China’s influence as a source market seems to be waning, with arrivals and spending for Q1 2019 both showing marginal falls compared with last year.

To t a l a r r i v a l s f r o m Mainland China for Q1 2019 reached 3,119,825, compared with 3,174,524 for Q1 2018, a fall of 1.72%, while spending fell 1.82%, from B175.724bn in Q1 last year to B172.529bn in Q1 this year.

In contrast, Hong Kong showed 2.09% growth in visitor arrivals and 4.52% increase in spending over the quarter, while Taiwan showed 17.35% growth in visitor arrivals and 19.65% increase in visitor spending.

Japan also showed growth as a source market over the quarter rising to 157,890 visitor arrivals over the three months (+9.28%) and a corresponding increase in spending of 12.26% for the quarter year on year.

Korea also showed growth with 7.11% growth in visitor arrivals for the quarter to 537,088, and an increase in spending of 7.10% over the quarter to B23,216bn.

Meanwhile, Russia stumbled as a source market, with a 1.30% fall in arrivals for March year-on-year (194,471 in 2019, compared with 197,023 in 2018) and a 3.27% fall in spending (B12,946bn in March 2019, down from B13.383bn in March 2018).

Over Q1 2019, Russia also showed a fall of 0.56% in ar r ivals year-on-year

(615,548 Q1 2019, compared with 618,996 Q1 2018), and a 1.59% fall in spending to B44.632bn Q1 2019, compared with B45,354bn Q1 2018).

India, Thailand’s latest targeted market, continued to show high growth with arrivals showing a 34.66% increase for March year-onyear (163,158 in March 2019,

compared with 121,164 in March 2018), and a 37.35% increase in spending for the month (B6.882bn in March 2019, compared with B5,011bn in March 2018).

Over the quarter, India continues to show year-on-year growth, with 450,224 arrivals so far this year compared with 360,223 last year (+24.98%),

and an increase in spending from B15,323bn over Q1 last year to B19,465bn in Q1 this year. (+27.03%).

Most European markets continued to slow with yearon-year falls in arrivals and spending for Q1 as follows: Austria (-6.11%, -3.53%); Belgium (-2.38%, -3.50%); Denmark (-4.95%, -3.54%); Finland (-13.19%, -12.96%); France (+2.54%, -0.99%); Germany (-5.67%, -7.16%); Italy (-1.40%, -1.29%); Netherlands (+3.91%, +0.92%); Norway (-2.87%, -3.91%); Sweden (-11.87%, -10.82%); Switzerland (-11.46%, -12.83%); United Kingdom (-1.17%, -4.82%).

Eastern Europe, however, showed a 5.47% growth in the number of arrivals and a 2.01% increase in visitor spending.

Of note, arrivals from the US, while remaining relatively low, grew 5.02% over the quarter (322,576 in Q1 2019, compared with 307,171 in Q1 2018), and a 6.97% increase in spending (B24,538bn in Q1 2019, compared with B22.939bn in Q1 2018).

10 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

MICE push targets overseas TCEB inks MoU with four foreign Chambers of Commerce MICE Andrew J Wood

T

he Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) is leveraging the development of Thai Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) business in long-haul markets in collaboration with foreign chambers of commerce representing Australia, the UK, the US and Germany.

TCEB President Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya explained, “The signing of this MoU – The Development and Promotion of MICE – between the TCEB and the Foreign Chamber Alliance (FCA), comprising four chambers of commerce representing our main target countries, which are Australia, UK, USA and Germany, is considered another remarkable step of TCEB in altering our role to leverage MICE by serving as a business partner who joins hands with foreign organisations to promote the development of Thai MICE in international markets, as well as to penetrate

The MoU is aimed at developing and promoting MICE in Thailand. Photo: TCEB into long haul MICE markets in Oceania, Europe and the USA, side by side with our main short haul target markets in Asia.

“Indeed, the collaboration is a new dimension of promoting Thai MICE business in long-haul markets with concentration on Oceania, Europe and the USA. This is the very first time that the Foreign Chamber Alliance has signed an MoU with a Thai government agency.

“Interestingly, the FCA has more than 20,000 members that include businessmen, investors, entrepreneurs from business, industrial and service sectors, such as Minor Hotels Group,

AccorHotels Group, Marriott Hotels Group, convention centres business, as well as oil, mining, pharmaceutical, automobile and other industries,” he added.

“These are considered highpotential business groups for propelling the national economy and are included among the targeted industries that the Thai government is keen to encourage in line with the 4.0 Policy.

“For this reason, this is a lucrative opportunity for us to collaborate to develop and raise the competitiveness of Thai MICE. The four chambers of commerce have recognised the importance of using MICE as

the gateway to the development of commerce and investment in Thailand and Asean,” he said.

With this MoU, the framework for the development of MICE business will embrace five dimensions of operation: • The sharing of MICE statistics and events; • MICE business development; • MICE market promotion; • MICE business research; • MICE personnel development.

Mr Chiruit further said, “The initial collaboration to mutually promote MICE business will mainly focus on hospitality service, because members of the FCA have

long records of investment in Thailand, which have been running alongside their nationwide service businesses.

Hence, they have eyed to extend collaboration with Thai government agencies, as they believe the endeavour will open a new door to operate MICE business in Thailand and Asean.

“This, in turn, will allow them to study about the dynamics and direction of the Thai MICE market. By joining with TCEB in formulating a marketing development scheme, the synergy will open new doors to connect with other alliances who relate with the promotion of Thai MICE business in targeted countries. Moreover, there will be co-operation in drawing international events into Thailand, marketing promotion and provision of support for events previously held in Thailand.

“The TCEB expects that the collaboration will not only leverage the competitiveness of Thai MICE in long-haul markets in Oceania, Europe and the USA, but will also help to attract international

events into several regions in Thailand, especially those considered main markets in MICE City project, which are Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Khon Kaen.”

Benjamin Krieg, Vice President, Austcham, explained, “The role of the Foreign Chamber Alliance (FCA) in Thailand and the purpose of signing the MoU combines key Foreign Chambers and their members through this important collaboration. We provide a common voice on advocacy to develop and grow opportunities that can benefit our members and the country of Thailand,” he said.

“The MICE industry is growing and will continue to grow in importance and contribution to the overall tourism sector within Thailand, and of course the greater Thai economy. Our primary aim is to continue to increase the competitiveness of Thailand as a leading destination for MICE not only within Asia, but the world, further complimenting the amazing tourism industry that we already are so fortunate to be a part of,” he concluded.

Royal Coronation in broadcasts MEDIA THE GOVERNMENT HAS embarked on a number of arrangements in preparation for the Royal Coronation of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun.

It has established the National Commission on the Royal Coronation Ceremony and other related committees and subcommittees to handle various relevant functions and activities for this important occasion.

The Royal Coronation Ceremony on May 4-6 will be televised by the Television Pool of Thailand and on the Thai TV Global Network for viewers in 170 countries worldwide.

As such the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has ordered that radio and television broadcasters deliver feeds from state agencies to make sure that the correct state-provided footage is disseminated to listeners and viewers.

Radio stations in particular are to switch their feeds over to FM 92.50 MHz, AM 819 Khz or AM 837 Khz, as follows:

May 3 9.40am – 10.30am: The Royal Golden Plaque of the official title of His Majesty the King, the Royal Golden Plaque of His Majesty’s horoscope, and the Royal Seal of State are transferred from the Temple of the Emerald Buddha to Baisal Daksin Throne Hall.

May 4 9.10am -Midday: The Royal Purification, or the “Song Muratha Bhisek” Ceremony, takes place at Chakrabat Biman Royal Residence. “Muratha Bhisek” refers to the action of pouring holy water over the head of the king, also known as ablution. This is followed by the actual Royal Coronation Ceremony, when His Majesty the King will be crowned.

1:40pm- 2:30pm: His Majesty the King grants a grand audience to members of the Royal Family, the Privy Council, and the Cabinet, as well as senior officials, gathered to offer their best wishes to His Majesty at Amarindra Vinicchaya Throne Hall.

3:50pm – 5:30pm: His Majesty proceeds to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha to proclaim himself the Royal Patron of Buddhism.

6:30-8:30pm: The cer-

emony of Assumption of the Royal Residence takes place at Chakrabat Biman Royal Residence. The purpose of the ceremony is to symbolically take up the royal residence and perform housewarming.

May 5 8:40am – Midday: The ceremony to bestow His Majesty’s Royal Cypher and Royal Title and to grant the royal ranks to members of royalty takes place at Amarindra Vinicchaya Throne Hall.

4.10pm – 8.30pm: His Majesty the King rides in the Royal Palanquin in the Royal Procession on Land to encircle the city, affording people the opportunity to attend and pay homage to their new King.

May 6 4:30pm – 5pm: His Majesty the King grants a public audience on a balcony of Suddhaisavarya Prasad Hall in the Grand Palace to receive his well wishes from the people.

5:35-5:50pm: His Majesty grants an audience to members of the international diplomatic corps, who offer their felicitations on this special occasion at Chakri Maha Prasad Throne Hall.

The Phuket News thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

Century-old footage of coronation found

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

12

How have coronation traditions evolved?

13

PLANTATION DELECTATION

Heirloom recipes reinvented at The Pavilions’ Plantation Club THE CULINARY DETECTIVE Chris Watson chriswatsonth@gmail.com

O

ver the past few years in Phuket, we have been experiencing an ever-increasing growth in the luxury hospitality sector. Whilst this lucrative market has been omnipresent since the beginning of Phuket as a resort destination, it has recently gained momentum as players have entered this space with indulgent properties, and those already here have repositioned themselves at a higher level. This is a worldwide trend driven by one factor in particular: consumer demand for a prized unique experience.

Accompanying these opulent accommodations and uber-luxe facilities has come new high-end dining, perhaps compounded by the arrival of the Michelin Guide to Phuket and Phang Nga last year and a realisation that Phuket is now on the global culinary stage. With the famed red book launched in Bangkok a year prior, dining trends in Thailand have quickly emerged and grabbed our attention, and one movement in particular: modern Thai cuisine.

This trend has resulted in several new groundbreaking ventures in Bangkok such as Sorn, Saawaan and R Haan, all recently awarded with a Michelin star. Additionally, this small but growing group of chefs have featured almost exclusively locally-grown Thai ingredients. These are either represented through heirloom, long-forgotten, rediscovered recipes or re-invented with modern culinary techniques and presentations. Demand for this has also been driven by the predominately millennial generation’s penchant for sustainability and healthier eating.

In addition to these benefits, the temptations are many; not least a reminder of the familiar scents and flavours of home cooking whilst celebrating artisan producers across Thailand.

I meet many residents of Thailand who are surprised when I inform them of the extensive range of premium Thai products available today that can easily compete with the imported variety.

Chefs are establishing a wide network of these small producers, and to support this have launched kitchen gardens. Even non-Thai restaurants, such as the two-Michelin-starred Suhring, utilise several local products in their Western repertoires, recognising freshness and resulting flavour.

Closer to home, in Phuket, we are @thephuketnews

The majestic countryside views are truly breathtaking.

Pla Hoi Shell – A la plancha scallops, lemongrass, shallots, fresh herbs and fried lime leaves. blessed with trailblazer Jimmy Ophorst, chef at the one-Michelin-starred PRU – representing Plant, Raise, Understand – at Trisara, whose non-Thai concept almost exclusively utilises locally-sourced products and those from a rapidly developing kitchen garden.

So when I received news of the arrival of a new culinary director and executive chef at The Pavilions Phuket and his impending relaunch of The Plantation Club to an outlet that would celebrate 100% Thai-sourced ingredients, I started to get excited. The menu would showcase products provided by local farmers and fishermen, either grown on property in The Pavilions’ new kitchen garden or from artisans across Thailand; both ethically grown or organic where possible.

Arriving at the all-concealing automated entrance door adds to the anticipated magic awaiting within, sliding back to reveal a subtly-lit driveway up the hill to the restaurant. Greeted by Khun Ale, the restaurant supervisor, I wander through to the elegant lounge where the resident mixologist, Khun Pat, presents locally-inspired creations to begin the evening. On entering the restaurant, a semi open-air, slightly

Massaman Neua – Oxtail, potato espuma, onions and garlic confit in massaman curry. colonial room, one cannot help but comment on the majestic countryside views which are truly breathtaking.

Upon meeting Chef Rey, a New Zealander with a stellar background, he presents me with an extensive à la carte menu and tasting menus carefully composed to showcase The Plantation Club journey. I begin with snacks of Baer Tord, Sago Sai Moo and Ma Hor, all exquisitely presented in an intriguing contemporary style but with flavours reflecting their authentic roots.

A raw snapper larb arrives with nham jim cannelloni and Hua Hin caviar; traditional but with a modish twist.

Khun Ale and her team are both attentive yet unobtrusive throughout.

Next on the degustation is a Tilapia fish in a hor mok soufflé topped with ethereal coconut air. Chef Rey has carefully preserved the origins of this dish, however has reimagined it and elevated both the textures and undoubtedly the taste.

Several courses follow, including local scallops, which may not yet be as revered as the Hokkaido version, but are certainly pearlescent and delicate, chargrilled with lemongrass and shallots – an achievement!

Coconut Surprise – Sticky rice, pandan sago, buffalo milk and mango ice cream and seasonal fruits.

Line-caught grouper follows and the main of melt-in-the-mouth oxtail in a massaman sauce is superlative.

Desserts are equally innovative with stylish flair.

Ever mindful of the pitfalls of “messing around” with classic recipes from any country – there is a reason why a certain ingredient combination has become a classic – I must compliment Chef Rey and his team. They have created a menu of dishes which, whilst staying true to their origins, have been significantly elevated through innovation and achieve an end result of contemporary sophistication, and all this whilst supporting the local agricultural community. Thank you to Khun Pat, Khun Ale and, of course, Chef Rey. The Plantation Club is open 6-11pm www.pavilionshotels.com/phuket/ plantation-club +66 (0) 7631 7600 Chris is a former Michelin Guide Inspector who, following an international career in hospitality spanning 30 years in both the Middle East and Asia, has now settled in Thailand and contributes a monthly restaurant column.

12 HISTORY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

History preserved Photo: Thai Film Archive

Photo: Thai Film Archive

Rare footage gives glimpse into the royal coronation of King Rama VII Arusa Pisuthipan

B

efore the reign of King Rama VII of the Chakri Dynasty, royal coronation ceremonies had never been filmed. As of now, the footage from the ceremonies of King Rama VII and the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej are the only two existing coronation motion pictures available in Thailand.

In light of the coronation of His Majesty

King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun on May 4, the rare historical footage of King Rama VII’s coronation was recently screened by the Thai Film Archive whose experts did a marvellous job preserving the film shot almost 100 years ago. The oldest surviving motion picture of the age-old royal ceremony, the footage is of great historical significance not just among historians but also all Thai citizens.

“The footage of King Rama VII’s coronation is an extremely valuable historical asset especially when it comes to the study of the history of the Rattanakosin period as it is the unprecedented detailed filming of coronation rites and rituals. The ceremonies of King Rama I up to King Rama V were recorded but only in written chronicles and archives and only in summary,” said historian Asst Prof Dinar Boontharm from the Faculty of Arts, Chulalongkorn University.

Dinar specialises in royal coronation ceremonies and sacred rituals in the royal court.

According to Dinar, filming coronation rites was first done during the reign of King Rama VII or around 1925. Prior to that, the ceremony was first photographed during the reign of King Rama V. Even so, only the post-ceremony coronation portrait was captured – rather than the entire process – with the new king dressed in full. Such a coronation portrait was to

be distributed to newspapers as well as heads of state in foreign countries.

The footage of King Rama VII’s coronation recently screened at the Thai Film Archive was shot by the Film Department of the State Railway of Thailand on 35mm nitrate film, an antique format that still preserves the detail and quality of the images even after nearly a century. After being digitalised by the Film Archive, it was made accessible to the public so that they could see those rare historical moments ahead of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun’s coronation, which will be held, according to Dinar, based on the ceremony of the late King Bhumibol.

Former director of the Thai Film Archive and film historian Dome Sukhawong recalled his discovery of the coronation footage in an old building in Bangkok’s Rong Muang Road in 1981.

Back then, Dome was in search of footage of Nang Sao Suwan (Miss Suwanna Of Siam), thought to be the first Thai feature film, made with support from the State Railway of Thailand.

During his quest, he ended up at a residence previously owned by a railway staffer. There he found over 500 rolls of old films, most in decayed condition. All the films were later found to be events during King Rama VII’s period, along with deleted and edited scenes from the full version of the coronation footage.

Film Department under the State Railway of Thailand. Photo: Thai Film Archive thephuketnews

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“That [King Rama VII period] was the first time all detailed processes of the coronation ceremony were allowed to be filmed from inside the palace,” explained Dome. “Although filming could be practised too during the time of King Rama VI, the King did not give royal permission for the coronation to be shot from inside the palace. Private filming crew or locals who then owned 16mm cameras could film the coronation events but only from outside.”

King Rama VII, on the contrary, allowed the Film Department under the State Railway to shoot the entire coronation.

“The then Film Department functioned just like the Government Public Relations Department of today,” Dome added. “In the past, movies were the only means mostly accessible by the general public regardless of gender, age and social status. Newspapers were available only in big cities and were read only by the upper- and middleclass. Broadcast radio wasn’t available.

So when there were important events, people saw them through public cinemas, which served as a television for the neighbourhood.”

As with other momentous events, King Rama VII’s coronation was filmed and screened before the public. This outdoor theatre screened the 35mm full-version of the coronation footage, which was over an hour long. The audience had to pay a fee to see the film.

An abridged version was later created by the Film Department to sell to any Thais who wished to purchase the footage as a meaningful memorabilia.

The 500 film rolls Dome discovered were neither of these two versions, but

@thephuketnews

HISTORY 13

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019 outtakes out of the full, final version.

The official hour-long footage was lost to time. Even though they are just segments edited out of the final version, the footage provides significant, in-depth knowledge of the royal ancient rite.

The footage was also an inspiration for the late British archaeologist Horace Geoffrey Quaritch Wales, a state officer in the reign of King Rama VII, to complete his thesis – with much of the material obtained while serving his post in Siam. In 1931, Wales – a professor in archaeology and Southeast Asia history at the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) – published a book titled Siamese State Ceremonies, which was later translated into Thai and is now available for purchase at leading bookstores.

At the beginning of the Chakri Dynasty, King Rama I ordered that all details and knowledge about the coronation be revised and recorded in a coronation reference book, which compiled all the coronation rites and processes as practised during the Ayutthaya period. Information in the book was obtained from conversations with royal family members and state officers that lived during the Ayutthaya period.

Several elements and practices adopted from the West were added to the coronation of King Rama IV. The United Kingdom was the country that most influenced the coronation given that the coronation of Queen Victoria was held only 13 years before King Rama IV. Thailand and Western countries have different coronation concepts.

As influenced by Indian civilisation together with Brahmin and Buddhist

Photo: Thai Film Archive beliefs, coronation in Thailand puts more emphasis on a water-related process such as purification and anointment. In the West, the crowning ceremony is the highlight.

Before the reign of King Rama IV, the Phra Maha Phichai Mongkut or the Great Crown of Victory – one of the royal regalia – wasn’t worn by the King at the coronation. Adopting coronation concepts from the West, King Rama IV was the first to change this and had the King actually wear the crown at the coronation. He also sent a court officer to purchase the diamond from Calcutta,

India, and put the crown jewel at the top of the Phra Maha Phichai Mongkut, just like Queen Victoria’s crown.

The coronation of the late King Bhumibol in 1950 followed the practice of King Rama VII after the country survived World War II and the Siamese revolution of 1932. However, certain steps of the ceremony were removed.

To see the footage of King Rama VII’s coronation, visit bangkokpost.com/vdo/ thailand/1662792/king-rama-7-coronation-ceremony Bangkok Post

14 CULTURE

Trailblazers:

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FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

Queen Mallika

The forgotten women living in the time of Buddha: Part 2 ALL ABOUT BUDDHISM Jason A. Jellison mitnoy@live.com

You can still see the magic of Queen Mallika’s transcendental Buddhist kingdom permeating our modern Buddhist world today like handprints on our hearts.

W

hich comes first: music or magic? That’s the quintessential question eternally abeat at the centre of one of Buddhism’s most enduring love stories.

Today, you will hear thousands of magnificent songs, and music is everywhere. But in the time of the Buddha, music was a rare luxury. In those ancient days, one very lucky young woman would manage to capture a fearless King armed with nothing but a song. Their story goes like this...

Before people had really heard of Buddhism, there was a magnificent Indian kingdom called Kosala, and in this kingdom there lived a beautiful young lady named Mallika.

Mallika stumbled upon Buddha when she was on her way to King Pasenadi’s public garden with her girlfriends. Mallika had not learned Buddha’s teachings yet, but she had a heart of gold. The 16-year-old shared her rice with Buddha and then strolled away whilst singing a beautiful song in memory of Him. Although King Pasenadi was as tough and as fearsome as a Bengal tiger, he was enchanted by Mallika’s beautiful song. He may not have seemed like the ‘happily-ever-after’ kind of guy, but then again, Mallika was just a carefree teenager who was about to meet one of the most compelling monarchs in the history of the Buddhist world.

King Pasenadi was the mightiest monarch of his millennium; the archetypal warrior who ensured that no losing battle would ever be the last. His very touch was pure fire. His mere gaze was an aweinspiring act of power; as if to remind you that, no, your two souls are not strangers and, yes, it’s okay to be tired of waiting.

Mallika looked madly into his mighty eyes and straight through a window into his kingly soul. With every heartbeat, they yearned for one another. With every breath, they longed for one another.

Time must have seemed to have slowed down to nothing more than a gentle sigh as their love affair bloomed amidst the technicolour floral shrines that bedecked Kosala’s royal gardens. Then, under the copper hue of the retiring Indian sunset, the King proposed marriage.

The entire capital was lavishly decorated with the ornaments that are part and parcel to royalty. Emu-

lating a city fit for the gods, the young Queen’s wedding encapsulated golden thrones, jewelled furnishings and the very finest of feasts.

The commoners called Mallika ‘the flower girl queen’ and she became wildly popular. Ancient texts record that she was as beautiful as a goddess on Earth. Endowed with the five feminine charms of the ancient world, gigantic portraits of her likeness were hoisted throughout the entire kingdom.

She was transformed into the new star of Kosala.

Regardless, Mallika never forgot that she was born into India’s lowest caste. Thus, she sincerely and personally took an interest in any royal subject who was suffering.

The Queen wisely tried to resolve this suffering by seeking out Buddha as an advisor. For example, she inquired, “Why is it that some are born so beautiful, yet others so ugly? Why are some so rich, yet some so poor? Why is life so unfair?”

Buddha answered with a historic discourse. He explained that life’s cruelties had to do with the karma of past lives.

Buddha stated that those who were patient in previous lives became beautiful in later lives, those who were generous in a previous life became prosperous in another, and a person might become powerful in this life because they did not envy others or covet their success.

This exchange caused the Queen to become a very ardent Buddhist, perhaps what we today would dub as ‘newborn.’ She was held in very high esteem

by Buddha and her royal subjects.

The Queen donated a single-pavilion park wherein one of Buddhism’s earliest monasteries was commissioned. She diligently learned Buddha’s teachings and she brought King Pasenadi into Buddhism, but this did not always go smoothly. You see, King Pasenadi was heavily weighed down by the burdens of kingship. He also had a habit of calling upon bad advisors who happily took advantage of him.

One night, the King had 16 terrifying dreams and his shady advisors claimed this foretold of his impending doom.

They promptly sold the King on a plan of spectacles engineered to appease angry deities. However, part of the plan involved ‘The Fourfold Sacrifice’ in which living beings would be sacrificed wherever four roads came together.

Who knows just how many unfortunate peasants would have been burned at the stake if the Queen had not found out about these advisors’ shenanigans.

She sent the King to Buddha who promptly identified the swindle as little more than a con job.

A thankful King now became a new follower of Buddha but, alas, a fairy

Image: sreenivasaraos.com tale ending was not on the cards for these otherwise happy royals. People occasionally make mistakes, and a little lapse in ethics would soon befall this popular Queen.

According to ancient texts, the Queen was bathing one day when a pet dog tried to fornicate with her leg. For whatever reason, she hesitated to push the dog away and the King caught a glimpse of this from afar. When questioned, the Queen did some fast talking and convinced the King that the window glass had obscured his view. Legend holds that this was one of the only sins that she ever committed.

When Queen Mallika died, the last thing that she remembered was this particular lie, and ancient texts hold that she had to spend seven days in repentance for this in Buddhist hell.

Meanwhile, as news of the Queen’s death reached the King, his head dropped and his shoulders slumped.

Buddha quickly realised that He could not tell the King that Mallika had to spend a week in hell because the King would lose faith and adopt wrong views.

The King desperately wanted to know where Queen Mallika had gone in the afterlife but Buddha benevolently distracted him by delivering fascinating religious lectures through His divine psychic power. After the seven-day penalty passed, Buddha truthfully told the King that Queen Mallika was now in the Heaven of the Devas and everyone lived happily ever after.

Today, we live amidst halls of history that are littered with long-dead monarchs who continue to wave proudly for a parade which has long since passed everyone by. However, Queen Mallika breaks this paradigm because all of her promises to us are still unbroken.

While many countries have amounted to little more than hamlets of unanswered prayers, Queen Mallika’s Buddhist Kosala is an eternal testament to timeless prayer. Buddhist Kosala, as Queen Mallika sculpted it, set the standard that all future Buddhist monarchies would strive to follow until this day, and if you look very carefully you can still see the magic of Queen Mallika’s transcendental Buddhist kingdom permeating our modern Buddhist world today like handprints on our hearts.

Editor’s Note: For further reading, see Buddhist Jatakas # 77, 306, 314, 415, 504, 519 or ‘Buddhist Parables’ by E.W. Burlingame, Yale University, C. 1918 thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

PEOPLE 15

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

Art for good O Manuel ‘Tote’ Gallardo. Photo: Gil Dylan

The artist becomes the subject. Photo: Gil Dylan

Tote the travelling artist and humanitarian

Tote teaches his brand of art to orphaned and sick children.

midnight blue paint on its surface with his middle finger.

“Well, my friend, this is like a spiritual life, you know, a philosophy.”

Tote finds that in most societies people keep to themselves and don’t open up easily, but once he strikes up a conversation and shows them his art, they

are very receptive. Art is universal and he uses it to connect with people the world over.

Gregg Greening

ne of the perks of operating a guest house in Phuket is interacting with all of the different walks of life that traverse the globe – the European latter day hippies, the vagrant vagabonds scrimping from hostel to hostel, the yuppie Ivy Leaguers on their spring break, champion Kenyan marathon runners, American Muay Thai kickboxers in training, German magicians, Filipino musicians, poets and prophets, and then there’s Manuel “Tote” Gallardo – a free-spirited cross between a Caribbean pirate and an Aboriginal bushman with a true humanitarian soul in every sense of the word. A self-proclaimed “international homeless” nomad, Tote is on a globe trekking quest for self-fulfillment achieved through the wide-eyed wonder and beaming grins he elicits from the orphaned and sick children he teaches around the world, whom he calls family.

“I don’t have family. My family is all the children around me,” Tote says in an intense Amazonian accent while reaching in his bag for photographs of children across the globe to whom he has taught his technique of finger painting on glass.

From the apartheid townships of Cape Town, the cancer clinics of Vladivostok and the land mine rehabilitation centres of Cambodia to the jungles of Papua New Guinea, the missions of Fiji and the deathbed wards of New Caledonia, Tote has journeyed through 76 countries across five different continents spreading his benevolence and promoting his art to underprivileged children living in the most remote corners of the Earth.

In 2018 alone, Tote ventured through over 20 countries, making it his challenge to visit each and every Pacific state starting with New Caledonia, Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea.

With the sense that his mission, as an ambassador of goodwill, is accomplished when seeing the eyes of the children when they’re happy, Tote feels that his life is solely about the experience. @thephuketnews

“I have no material, three times nothing, you know. I am happy like that. You know, I am really happy. Less I have, more happy.”

“I am born in Roraima,” he says with a distinct roll of the tongue.

“Rorororararaima,” he repeats it, even more distinctly in case you missed it the first time.

“It is a place in the Amazonian jungle,” he continues without being anymore precise, so I surmise he is either Brazilian, Venezuelan, Peruvian or any combination of the three.

“You can write whatever you like,” he says with a hearty laugh.

“My first trip is at 16 when I just cross the opposite side of the Orinoco river in a canoe into the jungle on the Colombian side, so all my life I’ve travelled,” he explains in his wildly animated tone.

“My philosophy in life is to travel, don’t ask me why. I don’t know why.

Because I want to. Because I don’t like to stay in one place. When coming the routine, pshew,” he whistles, snaps his fingers and waves his hand in a fleeting, parting gesture, “I have to go, like international homeless.”

Just as the routine was catching up with him in Phuket, and, as a monumental music aficionado, chronic concert goer and die-hard fan of Keith Richards, whose worn and wrinkled autobiography he carries with him like a sacred bible, he talks me into attending the last leg of the Stones’ On Fire Asian tour with him in Macau. Following the concert, Tote stays on in Hong Kong and goes to work selling his art on the streets of Kowloon.

“When working on the street, you interact with the people, you know,” he says producing a letter received from a 15-year-old Hong Kong admirer.

“Hong Kong lady, 15 years old, she don’t know me, I don’t know her, but she gives me this letter, and her sister painted this one. And, my friend, these Hong Kong people are amazing.”

He turns and speaks to a customer shouting out an order from the onlooking crowd then takes a pane of glass out of his bag and begins smearing a dab of

Gregg Greening is a freelance writer, world traveller and author of ‘Out of Paradise – A Hitchhiker’s Guide to the World’, currently living in Phuket.

16 GARDENING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

Four bizarre trees The ‘pong-pong’ tree boasts glossy, green, globose fruit.

There’s a certain novelty value to the sausage tree. Photo: Dror Feitelson

The cannonball tree from South America. Photo: Mokkie

‘Southern trees bear strange fruit’ – Billie Holiday GREEN THOUGHTS Patrick Campbell

Y

ou don’t expect to find trees with bizarre labels such as the “pong-pong”, sausage or cannonball tree, but all these species, alive and well here in Phuket, are so named on account of their strange fruit.

Of these oddballs, the one you are most likely to encounter is the “pong-pong” or cerbera odollam. A hardy native of Malaysia, this member of the apocynaceae genus grows to a height of about 10 metres, and is frequently culti-

vated in tropical gardens on account of its glossy leaves and continuous display of fragrant clusters of white flowers with yellow centres which open at branch tips. I know several resorts on the island where the “pong-pong” has been planted at the edges of car parks or other open spaces. There are several, probably self-sown, decorating the Chalong Rd as it begins its serpentine progress upwards towards Kata.

But its real appeal for many gardeners lies in its large, globose fruit – glossy, green spheres that look most attractive on the tree. If you are contemplating a shady presence, this is definitely one to consider since the dense crown has layered, evergreen foliage. Moreover, it can be propagated from seed or cuttings and begins flowering after a couple of years. Just remember that, in common with most members of the family, the fruits and milky sap are both poisonous.

Another species, C. manghas grows in the wild and may be easier to cultivate. A smaller tree, it crops up in coastal swamps and thickets behind beaches, though, like the mangrove, it is a much diminished presence.

There it may keep company with the seagrape or coccoloba. Not an Asian native, the seagrape may now be found growing wild along Phuket’s shoreline, or employed as a verdant hedge in resorts or gardens as a salt-resistant ornamental plant. Also drought proof, it is a tree or tall shrub, with stiff, prominently-veined leaves which are bright green in colour. Almost round, they look very attractive. Hence one popular name of platter leaf tree.

The flowers are fragrant and appear in racemes up to eight inches long, but it is the long bunches of small, berrylike fruit – reminiscent of peppers – that sometimes steal the show. Used locally for making jellies, these green to red clusters give the tree its common name of seagrape.

A most desirable plant for windy, saline conditions, it is being used more and more by knowledgeable landscapers around the island as well as doing service as a dune stabiliser. Give it full sun and well-drained conditions.

If you think the seagrape and “pong-

pong” are odd, how much more bizarre is the sausage tree (kigelia pinnata)?

Grown less for its visual appeal than for its novelty value, it is a medium-sized tree from the jungles of West Africa and bears dark red flowers. These, produced in panicles, are waxy, bell-shaped and stick straight out from their stems.

Unfortunately they are malodorous and possess a pungent smell.

But again it is the inedible fruit, seedy, mildly poisonous and powerfully purgative, that is the main attraction: in this case, sausage-shaped oddities that may be 50 centimetres long and weigh several kilograms. A rival to other monsters such as durian and jackfruit. I have not seen it growing here, but would be delighted to hear of any sightings…

The cannonball tree is another oddball – if you will pardon the obvious pun. As with kigelia pinnata, you are much more likely to encounter couroupita guianensis in a private park or botanic garden than in your neighbour’s patch. For instance, there is a particularly fine specimen in Six Senses Resort.

Essentially a majestic jungle tree with large elliptical leaves which are shed twice a year, it has arrived here from South America. But what makes it so odd are two peculiarities: one, the deep pink or scarlet, waxy, scented flowers are not borne on branches, but grow directly from the trunk below the crown; two, they are followed by large, globose fruit that look like huge, rusty cannonballs as they dangle on long stems from leafless branches, spectacular objects that can remain on the tree for many months.

Used traditionally both for medicinal purposes and feed for livestock, the cannonball is not for the table – or for the small garden. But what a sensational addition to your tropical estate.

Patrick has been writing for thirteen years about gardening in Phuket and allied topics. If you have horticultural or environmental concerns, please contact him at drpaccampbell@gmail. com. Many of his earlier creative and academic publications can be found at Wordpress: Green Galoshes. thephuketnews

PETS 17

Dogs with jobs THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

The difference between emotional support, therapy and service dogs UNLEASHED Russell D Russell info@k9pointacademy.com

Please do not be offended if the handler asks you not to talk to or pet their dog; service dogs in particular have a job to do and shouldn’t have their attention diverted from their work.

T

he number of jobs that dogs are doing is growing at an exceptional rate. We are all used to police dogs, search and rescue dogs and guide dogs, but there are a few other terms which get thrown around and are often thought of as the same thing. Whilst the laws governing service and support animals here are muted at best, it’s still worth knowing what people mean when they refer to terms given to various dogs.

Emotional support animals Simply put, an emotional support dog (or animal) (ESA) represents a companion that provides therapeutic benefit to the owner. An ESA requires no specific training or testing, it is simply the presence of that animal which provides comfort and support to the owner. There are some key differences in places such as the US and the UK, where emotional support dogs are allowed to fly in cabin with their owners or allowed into accommodation which otherwise has a ‘no pets allowed’ policy. However, an ESA is not a service animal, and as such has more limited public access rights.

Therapy dogs These dogs are often household companions who accompany owners to various places to bring comfort and affection to others. This may be visiting the elderly in a home, or children in a hospital ward, or (as we do here in Phuket) helping kids in school to develop their reading skills. Due to legal and liability issues, most establishments will not allow therapy dogs on site unless they have been assessed and certified. Canine Point Academy is the only accredited American Kennel Club (AKC) assessor in Thailand able to assess and certify therapy dogs. It’s worth noting that therapy dogs are not service dogs either, and therefore do not enjoy any legal protections, nor do they have rights of access to public establishments or transport.

Service dogs The marked difference with service dogs is that they are not a pet; they are highly-trained dogs that have been taught to help with specific documented disabilities. Guide dogs are good examples of service dogs, but dogs have also been trained to help the hearing impaired, or help sufferers of PTSD, or alert a diabetic to changing blood sugar levels.

Service dogs are usually also able to provide certain functions, such as pushing buttons, opening doors, picking up objects or alerting others when their owner is unresponsive.

Such dogs need to be really calm and both physiologically and psychologically sound with a great temperament. And whilst historically we have seen German shepherds, labradors and golden retrievers being predominantly used in assistance work, these days there is quite the range of dogs being used in such a way.

Depending on location, a service dog is usually legally able to accompany their handler wherever they go. This includes shops, restaurants and any other building open to the general public. However, a handler can be asked to remove their dog if they are acting badly or posing a direct threat to someone in the environment. A service dog is not required to wear a vest, special tags or a collar. They do not need a special harness or an ID card. However, most handlers choose to equip their dogs to keep challenges regarding public access to a minimum.

Off on howliday. Photo: Axel Breuer / Pexels @thephuketnews

No matter which type of working dog you encounter, never interact with them without the handler’s express permission. Please do not be offended if the handler asks you not to talk to or pet their dogs;

Service dogs pawsitively impact their owner’s lives. Photo Hurricane Omega service dogs in particular have a job to do and shouldn’t have their attention diverted from their work.

If you would like some more information on canine training, or behavioural issues, then please to contact us on 091

654 1960, email info@k9pointacademy.com, or check our website www. k9pointacademy.com. CPA is the only K9 organisation in Thailand accredited with the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), and as an AKC Evaluator.

18 ISLAND SCENE

Craig Ferguson, Australian Consul-General for Phuket, and family.

Capt Chumnan Nobnob and Capt Puchong Rodnikorn of the Royal Thai Navy.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

Karra White, Darren Smith and Iain Skea of the Royal Australian Navy.

Scores of people attended, including residents and visitors to the island.

ANZAC DAY DAWN SERVICE HELD AT PHUKET YACHT CLUB People from all walks of life gathered early on Apr 25 to commemorate Anzac Day at the annual Dawn Service at the Phuket Yacht Club beside Chalong Bay. The event, organised by the Australian Consul-General for Phuket Craig Ferguson and his staff at the consulate, was attended by scores of people, both residents and visitors to the island, as well as esteemed Thai dignitaries and representatives from the Royal Australian Navy. Anzac Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand that commemorates all Australians and New Zealanders, and others, “who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations” and “the contribution and suffering of all those who have served”. For all those who honour and remember the Anzacs, Lest We Forget.

Craig Ferguson addressing guests against the backdrop of a stunning sunrise.

Lest We Forget.

Students from British International School, Phuket – BISP proudly performed at the service.

Guests gathered to commemorate fallen Australians and New Zealanders.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

Teaming up for sustainability.

ISLAND SCENE 19

It took a team of 14 to heave this trash out of the sand.

MILITARY PERSONNEL AND COMMUNITY TEAM UP TO CLEAN KOH SIRAY As part of their Indo-Pacific Endeavour, the Royal Australian Navy brought its flagship HMAS Canberra and 1,000 personnel to Phuket for training and community activities with Thai personnel. On Apr 29, 40 personnel joined local schools, villagers, community groups, the Rassada Council and other volunteers to undertake a clean-up of Koh Siray, with a particular focus on plastic waste. They received a warm welcome from the flag-waving local children who joined them on the clean-up and made a real difference to the area.

Sue, Tina, Loraine, Vallerie, Janet, Anna and Kai.

O.B., Don, Sue, Janet, Kevin and Chris.

ROTARY CLUB OF PATONG BEACH HOLDS ELEGANT WHITE CHARITY GALA On April 20, the Rotary Club of Patong Beach held its 10th annual charity dinner, auction and danceathon at Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort. It was an evening of live music, fresh delicacies and free-flowing libations. Best of all, the money raised went towards Rotary’s projects aimed at helping local disadvantaged children in the form of donations of medicine, school supplies, motorcycle helmets and more.

JW Marriott chefs and general managers with Vice Governor Prakob and Jormsurang Chalermkawun of the Phuket TAT office.

The 1 st place winning team from Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa.

YOUNG CULINARIANS COMPETE AT MARRIOTT COOKING BATTLE 2019 JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa hosted the third Marriott Junior Chefs Cooking Battle 2019 on Apr 26 for their interns and talented chefs. Phuket Vice Governor Prakob Wongmaneerung opened proceedings. Young culinarians then had an hour to create three dishes for the judges, which included Jomsurang Chalermkawun from the Phuket office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Marriott general managers. Congratulations to Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa Team, who won first place.

Toine Kokke, Jeannette Woelinga and Bart Duykers.

ELEPHANTASTIC CHARITY DINNER HELD AT THE 9TH FLOOR PATONG Apr 27 saw The 9th Floor Restaurant & Bar hold their four-course Elephant Charity Dinner in aid of Elephant Parade, a social enterprise that exhibits decorated elephant statues worldwide to raise awareness of the need for their conservation. @thephuketnews

All fun and games as Mal and Luke win the mixed doubles knock-out competition.

PATONG POOL LEAGUE SEES OUT A GREAT SEASON IN STYLE The Patong Pool League held their end of season party at The Genius II Garden and Restaurant in Patong on Apr 25 where they celebrated another season of great pool in which Kwan’s Birdie Club were crowned league champions.

20 EVENTS

FRI

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3 MAY

SAT

4 MAY

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

– roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes – gravy, mushroom sauce, mint sauce. Reservations recommended. B350 P/P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

All you can eat BBQ night

Mussels night @ Shakers

All you can eat BBQ Ribs night

1.2kg mussels served with French fries, your choice, your style: natural, marnière, Provençale, garlic and cream or Thai style. Reservations recommended B295 P/P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

6PM – 11PM: All you can eat BBQ Ribs served with salad buffet, potato salad & choice of sauces. Reservation recommended. 295 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

Sunday Roast All Day, All Night Come enjoy a Traditional Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Indulge in our Traditional Sunday Roast ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT for ONLY 445 Baht! Enjoy a Large ALL YOU CAN EAT selection of your favorites! Featuring: Roast Aussie Beef, Pork Loin and Chicken. Roasted or Mashed Potatoes. Roasted Mixed Vegetables Flavored with Thyme and Garlic. Yorkshire Pudding and Gravy. Enjoy Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band! Come for the FOOD - Stay for the Fun. RESERVE Your Table Now Online at bit.ly/TwoChefsReservations Check out more details on our website at bit.ly/TwoChefsEvents Reservations, Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong., Kata Beach 076-333-370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344-914.

6pm – 11pm: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns and Squid, Salad buffet, Choice of potatoes and sauces, bread, buns and garlic bread. Reservation recommended. B395 P/P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

WED

8 MAY

ALL YOU CAN EAT BBQ RIBS Come join us for our WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY served ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Indulge in All You Can Eat BBQ Pork Ribs, Chicken and Sides for ONLY 495 BAHT! Our BBQ is famous at Two Chefs! Come try us out and enjoy our mouthwatering pork ribs, flavor-bursting chicken and more! Join us for Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band! Come for the FOOD - Stay for the Fun. www. twochefs.com Kata Beach 076-333-370 Kata Center 076-330065 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344-914.

Saturday Brunch & Bar From Grilled Seafood - Premium Meats - Sushi Corner Salad Bar Appetizers and Delectable Desserts to all time favorite Free-Flow Beverages. Treat your Saturday to the fullest. Let’s Brunch! *THB 2.399++ per person (including free-flow beverages) *THB 1,699++ per person (including soft drinks). *50& off for children aged from 6-12 years old.

Reservation, Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, dtlpfb@dusit.com, 076 362 999 ext.7310

Sala Sunday Night Steak & Seafood Premium barbecue main course, including imported Australian Rib Eye, full rack of Lamb or whole Phuket Lobster accompanied by buffet of delicious appetizers. Live music from 6.30pm. Premium BBQ. 1,700*Baht. Reservations, Sala Phuket, events@salaphuket.com 076 338 888.

MON

Trash Fashion Show 2019 QSIP will host the 11th edition of the Annual Trash Fashion Show where students will present their fashion designs all made from recycled materials. There will also be objects and decoration made by students for sale. Come joins us on May, 3rd at 13:00h at QSIP.

6 MAY

Light and Fresh Buffet

Devour our succulent pork rib set complete with sweet corn chowder, blue cheese salad, moist cornbread and finish it off with a bread and butter pudding. DJ Q will keep the soul flowing and your toes tapping as you wash down those tender ribs with a bucket of craft brews. Full Rack set B1,600, Half Rack set B1,200, bucket of craft brews B800. Reservations, SALA Phuket Resort and Spa. Email: events@sala phuket.com or call 076 338 888.

THU

9 MAY

The Watercourt is presenting a line of tasty Italian Cold Cut, Gourmet Salads, Hearty Soup, Flavourful Desserts and Seasonal Fruit. From THB 1,200 net per guest (Choice of Meat & Seafood grilled - Additional). Banyan Tree, The Watercourt, fb-phuket@banyantree.com, 076 372 400.

SUN

5 MAY BACK TO THE ’70s & ’80s EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT

Grow Boating Networking Evening - May 2019 This Grow Boating Networking Evening will be held at The D’Deck Bar, at The Ao Po Grand Marina from 5pm. We are pleased to announce that C & C Marine have agreed to be our drinks sponsor. See www.candc-marine.com/ There will be a light buffet sponsored by The D’Deck Bar and special prices on your favourite beverages. Come and join in the fun, everyone is welcome. There is no entry fee, just drop your business card or register at the bar. We hope to see you there and if you know anyone you think would be interested in coming please invite them along. growboatingphuket@ gmail.com

Sala Wednesday nights: Ribs, beats, brews

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet Beef, Pork and Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, fried mushrooms, grilled tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding

Simmer & Spice Currybuffet,Greatvariety,Vibrantflavours.EveryMondayfrom18.30 - 21.30. Reservations, SALA Phuket, events@salaphuket.com, 076 338 888.

Don’t miss out on our newest, exciting weekly event at Two Chefs. Come and join us for our special Cajun Grilled Chicken Breast served on a wooden plate with mashed potato, red wine sauce, and bearnaise sauce for ONLY 395 THB. Have a sweet tooth? Treat yourself to the Two Chefs banana flambé served with vanilla ice cream for ONLY 95 THB. Sit back and enjoy one of our drink specials as you listen to the famous Two Chefs band performing all your favorite retro hits and more! Live music starts from 8:30pm and goes late at all of our Two Chefs locations.

Reservations are highly recommended. You can book on our website at WWW.TWOCHEFS.COMor find us on Facebook at WWW.FACEBOOK/TWOCHEFSTHAILAND COME FOR THE FOOD STAY FOR THE FUN! Reservations, Call us directly at Two Chefs Kata Center 076-330-065, Kata Beach 076-333-370, Karon 076-286-479, Patong 076-344-914

thephuketnews

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FRI

EVENTS 21

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

10 MAY

FRI

24 MAY

SAT

8 JUN

million Thai Baht. Free entry for spectators, great afternoon out for the family. Exotic Fishing Thailand, Exotic Fishing Thailand, Phang Nga, exoticfishingthailand@gmail.com, English 088 379 9377 and Thai 081 199 5922.

EVERY DAY

Laguna Phuket Marathon 2019 21st Phuket International Rugby 10s The Aussie Bar Phuket International Rugby Tens 2019 will be hosted at Thanyapura Sports Club over the weekend of May 24-26. Teams in the men’s & women’s open along with the Athena Siam Coffin Dodgers vets tournaments will be vying for honours come the finals on Sunday. Entry is free so come on down and enjoy a weekend of fun & excitement and help us raise funds for the Asia Center Foundation.

Phuket Business Networking - May 2019

SUN

26 MAY

Laguna Phuket Marathon has been at the front of that growth and has helped to put Phuket on the map as a running mecca, delivering an event to the highest international standards that is a qualifier for the Boston Marathon, is professionally timed

by Sportstats Asia, and is certified by AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races). Laguna Phuket Marathon 2019 offers six distances: 2 km Kids Run, 5 km and 10.5 km will take place on Saturday 8th June in the afternoon while the Half Marathon (21.0975 km), Marathon (42.195 km) and Marathon Relay (42.195 km) will take place on Sunday 9th June in the morning. For the full schedule, visit http://www. phuketmarathon.com/race-schedule

THU

Prime at Rock Salt Prime at Rock Salt is the home of smoke and fire at Naiharn Beach. An exclusive eatery, Prime offers a collection of roasted, smoked and chargrilled creations from its custom-designed kitchen. The al fresco dining experience is completed with panoramic ocean views across Naiharn Beach. Open Daily 6.00 – 10.00 pm at Naiharn Beach For more information and bookings, please call +66 76 380 200 or rocksalt@ thenaiharn.com

13 JUN

A small entry fee, THB 500 per person, that includes the first 3 drinks and a light buffet. Make sure to bring lots of business cards, as getting to know each other is what PBN is all about. Location - Ramada Plaza Phuket Chao Fah. Register your attendance here - https://www.facebook.com/ events/390911998417752/ or call Jason - 086 479 7471.

SAT

11 MAY

Phuket Wellness Connection 2019

BANG WAD A THON Community Ride / Scoot / Walk A Thon at Bang Wad Dam. Minimum donation of 200 baht per person. Snacks and Drinks available for purchase. Sausage sizzle. All proceeds to benefit RIDE 4 KIDS V3.0.

ANDREW NETTO IN PHUKET Do not miss ANDREW NETTO (Malaysia) with special guest BRIAN AYLWARD (Canada) and host UMAR RANA (Pakistan). Tickets are on sale now from 350 THB (early bird), 650 THB (show only), 950 THB (burger, two selected drinks & show), 990 THB (hotel buffet & show), or 1450 THB for VIP tickets, which include free-flow drinks from 7-10 PM and meet & greet with the comedians. Get your tickets today at: www. phuketticketmaster.com

MON

Before April 15, 2019 - 8,000 baht (registration free is 12,000 baht) Free Oilgoscan testing (8,000 baht value). Novotel Phokeethra Hotel Phuket, heatantiaging@gmail.com, 061 401 0345

SUN

From Apr 19 till May 19, 2019 Crest Resort & Pool Villas presents So What, Latitudes 2 year anniversary exhibition. On display: all the artists who made the covers of the magazine since its beginning. 7-10 pm at Atmos Restaurant. For more info - www.facebook.com/events/354307668523902/

30 JUN

27 MAY

DAILY EVENT UPDATES ON Ride 4 Kids 2019 Ride 4 Kids V3.0 is in full swing, riders will be cycling 700 kms from Phuket on the 27th May – 1st June 2019, all to raise money for The Good Shepherd, PHBGTU and Outrigger’s Share4Change. Join the coming home party at Metzos on 1st June and meet the team, tickets available for 2500 thb per ticket, please email organizer and LIVE 89.5fm host Donna Toon lunch@classactmedia.co.th and visit www.ride4kids.co for more information.

@thephuketnews

Crest Resort & Pool Villas - Art Exhibition

2 Major Freshwater Fishing Events June 30th and July 6th. 2 Major Freshwater Fishing Events at the amazing Exotic Fishing Thailand. Huge prizes valued at 1

22 TIME OUT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 1. On which day was King Bhumibol Adulyadej crowned King of Thailand?

2. On which special day does your Thai driver’s licence expire?

3. Which two actors were the first to have their handprints cemented on the historic Hollywood Walk of Fame?

4. Elizabeth II and French President François Mitterrand officiated the opening of what in 1994?

5. English professional footballer Wayne Rooney now plays for which Major League Soccer club?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

Medium

Across 1. Goes with ahs 4. Billboard category 7. Certain refrigerant, briefly 10. Trigonometric function 12. Ph.D. awarder 14. Milk: Prefix 15. Attempted 17. Female jazz icon James 18. Ramblers and Hornets 19. Fruity bakery buy 22. Chick flick 23. “Lord of the Rings” warriors 27. Itinerary abbr.

28. Grasped 30. “___ Como Va” (1971 Santana hit) 31. “A jealous mistress”: Emerson 32. Fruity cream companions 35. Hispanic aunt 37. Baseball score 38. Hamilton’s prov.

39. Brit’s dessert originally 44. Abbr. on a business letter 45. Lean-___ (sheds) 46. Ham, to Noah

47. Totally 50. Sesame paste 52. Pet with a Hollywood star 54. Fruity desserts 58. Collaborative website 61. Large lake 62. ____ frutti 63. Guinness and porter 64. China related 65. Venus de __ 66. Ferdinand, e.g.

67. Poetic dusk 68. Hill person: Abbr.

religiously 20. Adrenaline trigger 21. The America’s Cup trophy, e.g.

24. Fresh water 25. Worry 26. A Cadillac model 29. Commodities 30. Tributes 32. Anatomic pouch 33. Fighter’s org.

34. Wade’s challenger 35. Fey of “Mean Girls” 36. Dieter’s waist measurement 39. NY collection Down 40. Sicilian smoker 1. Canada’s capital 41. Des ____ 2. Goes with Bazaar 42. D.C. in-crowd 3. Concealed 43. Incompetent sharpshooter 47. The way things 4. Remorseful one now stand 5. Opposed 48. Rich with humor 6. Big East team 49. Wound 7. ___ corder 51. Nile wader 8. Communications 53. Urban blight authority 55. Singer India.___ 9. Price abbr.

56. Diamond 11. 1965 Beatle’s complement movie 57. Many millennia 13. Carpet colorer 58. “This means 14. Role for Angelina ___!”

16. Thomas 59. St. Martin, e.g.

Jefferson, 60. Chief

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) May 5, 1950; 2) Your birthday; 3) Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford (April 30, 1927); 4) the Channel Tunnel; 5) D.C. United

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

1

in three children in the US live in homes without fathers.

10

companies in total control nearly every large beverage and food brand in the world: Nestlé, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, Unilever, Danone, General Mills, Kellogg’s, Mars, Associated British Foods, and Mondelez.

70

percent of millionaires do not consider themselves to be “wealthy”.

2003

Mai Khao Beach. Photo: Andre Lehmann Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket? Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

was the last time Jupiter’s outermost moon was seen. It’s currently considered “lost”.

4 trillion

pounds of TNT exploding is the equivalent energy released by a Magnitude 9 earthquake.

Source: Uberfacts

This week in history May 3, 1978 The first unsolicited bulk commercial email (later known as “spam”) is sent by a Digital Equipment Corporation marketing representative to every ARPANET address on the west coast of the United States.

May 5, 1980 Operation Nimrod: The British Special Air Service storms the Iranian embassy in London after a six-day siege and kill six gunmen campaigning for Arab national sovereignty in Khuzestan, Iran.

May 4, 1970 The Ohio National Guard opens fire on students protesting the Vietnam War at Kent State University, killing four unarmed students and wounding nine others.

May 6, 1937 The German zeppelin Hindenburg catches fire and is destroyed within a minute while attempting to dock at Lakehurst, New Jersey.

Thirty-six people are killed.

May 8, 1886 Pharmacist John Pemberton first sells a carbonated beverage named “Coca-Cola” as a patent medicine.

The Hindenburg on fire, 1937.

May 7, 2000 Vladimir Putin is inaugurated as president of Russia.

May 9, 1671 Thomas Blood, disguised as a clergyman, attempts to steal England’s Crown Jewels from the Tower of London. He is later acquitted and receives more money from the king than the 71-year-old guard stabbed trying to defend the jewels.

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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CLASSIFIEDS 23

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

Jobs

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

International Sales Support

APR is an international company dealing with customers in Asia and Australia, as well as decorative surface suppliers from Europe. Asia Pacific Representatives Ltd. are looking for: Support staff for our sales team Age: 20-35 years Thai National Excellent English language skills required Knowledge of Microsoft office Comprehensive understanding of Microsoft Excel Office location: Phuket – Chalong Tasks will include: - Project tracking and follow up - Communication with international suppliers and customers - Understanding of our products and services Please submit your resume and recent photo jobs@apr-pfleiderer.com

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Personal Assistant

For retired UK/CAD businessman in high end resort. Good English, some driving, shopping etc. Part Time OK. Brian 089 054 4354.

@thephuketnews

Art House Real Estate company

Looking for Thai Marketing manager at the property booth, Patong Area, for more detail please contact: info@arthouse.asia

Thai Yoga Instructor

Position available now - Full Time Position - 24 Yoga Classes per month. Wellness Skills - Certificated to teach various Yoga Styles.

Additional Health Skills i.e. Aerial Yoga, Acro Yoga, etc. - Assist with Yoga Class inquires and Retreat health consultations. English Speaking - Thai National only 25,000 to 30,000. Kenneth Miller 0866041333. www.ccshideaway.com/wellness.htm

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 25

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

Trades & Services

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

ADVERTISING SERVICES

CLEANING SERVICES

CORPORATE SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

MARINE SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

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Trades & Services

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

classifieds@thephuketnews.com

MARINE SERVICES

OTHER

PROPERTY SERVICES

PERSONAL SERVICES

TRAINING

ADVERTISE HERE

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CLASSIFIEDS 27

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

Buy & Sell BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE

Car for sale

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Recently refurbished restaurant & bar for sale in Karon, Phuket, with accom located above. CCTV fitted throughout the building. The business is up for sale for 1.9MB or near offer and includes all fixtures, fittings and stock at point of sale. 062 210 1368. newconceptbars.thailand@ gmail.com

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Golden Business Opportunity

Brand new two story massage shop for sale with high end furniture. 10 Beds, 6 chairs and nail Salon. Great opportunity for high season. B900,000 ono, Lek, Soi Post Office, Patong Beach Road, sweet_ lek55@hotmail.com, 099 362 7979

@thephuketnews

PROPERTY FOR SALE Apartment Block in Soi Ta-Eiad

Amazing residential block for sale comprising of 5 x 190sqm fully furnished 3 Bedroom Units. Highest quality fixtures and finishing’s with exceptional build quality. All units have internal surround sound systems and wireless internet routed in the walls. Full Western kitchen in all units. Rooftop Salt Water Swimming Pool with 8 person Jacuzzi and bar. Spectacular panoramic views.

Units currently being rented out with almost 100% occupancy, so fantastic investment opportunity. Potential returns of 9% per annum. B61,500,000, Tina, phuket@thairesidential.com

Subaru XV

Cross trek bought new 2013. Well maintained, glass coating, rust proofing, new tires, single owner. Must see! Nicha Residence, 0892873128.

BUSINESSES FOR SALE Refurbished Restaurant & Bar

LIFE FITNESS F1 TREADMILL - FOLDABLE Brand new: THB 35,000+(VAT) from retail price of 188,000 Compact foldable treadmill. 35000, carolinelaleta@gmail.com, +66869504961

Car For Sale

250,000THB incl VAT. For boat up to 32 feet / 9.5 metres. Contact: Asia Yacht Agency Co., Ltd. Contact@AsiaYacht Agency. com, 081-894 -3234 (French/ English), 086-269-0808 (Thai/ English).

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GYM EQUIPMENT TREADMILL

Ford Fiesta 2012 For sale English 095 420 9662 Thai 082 629 1419 Janthisa Jaikwang, 199/14 หม ู ่ 5 ตำ�บลศร สี นุ ทร อำ�เภอถลาง จังหวัดภ เู ก ็ต, B 250,000 info@lifestyleinthailand.com, 0826291419

FOR SALE AIR BERTH M320

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SPORTING GOODS, EXERCISE

Chevrolet Trailblazer LTZ 2.8 CC. 4X4 For sale English 095 420 9662 Thai 082 629 1419 janthisa jaikwang, 199/14 หม ู ่ 5 ตำ�บลศร สี นุ ทร อำ�เภอถลาง จังหวัดภ เู ก ็ต, info@lifestyleinthailand. com, B 725,000

Monterey 415SY. Perfect condition. 1 owner. Regular maintenance in authorised centers. Twin Volvo IPS600 435hp, joystick control, Engine Hours: 670. Furuno radar. GPS. B6,900,000. 0878970501.

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@thephuketnews

CARS, TRUCKS FOR SALE

42ft Sport Yacht, Reduced Price

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The Phuket News

MEMBERSHIPS

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

BABY GRAND w/ DISC PLAYER

“Classic” Baby Grand Piano with “Disc Player”. In perfect condition. 7 years old. Original price 428,000 THB. 170,000, Phuket Town, daryldavies9@gmail. com, 080 159 5239

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Karon 1 Bed Condo for Sale

BLUE CANYON GOLF MEMBERSHIP

425,000 THB and Seller pays the transfer fee. For more information call 098 946 0709. Rob George.

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PROPERTY WANTED 3 Bedroom Condo Wanted

Looking for 3 Bed Condo/Apartment any area of Phuket for 3million Thai Baht or thereabouts. Please email mick11468@gmail.com. Thanks! B3,000,000, Mike

Mandala Condo Freehold Wanted

Foreign Freehold Wanted for Mandala Condominium in Kamala. Please email details to mick11468@gmail.com.

Karon Butterfly hillside condo for sale just 800m from beach. Amenities close by. Fully furnished and condo facilities.

Great investment in great area of Phuket.

Shuttle Bus to Beach and Rental Program.

A must see!!!! B4,300,000, Dmitry , phuket@thairesidential.com

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Phuket Town 1 Bed Condo

Wonderful 1 Bedroom Condo near Central Festival area. Just 10 minutes to Panwa Beach. A must see!!! Fully furnished and conveniently located.

Amenities close by as well as tourist attractions. Full condo facilities.

B2,500,000, Tina, phuket@thairesidential.com, 0948411918.

28 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Buy & Sell

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

PROPERTY FOR SALE 2-Bed Furnished Kathu House for Rent

2bd/2bth furnished house for rent in Kathu near Loch Palm Golf Course. See link for more photos and details. www.kathuhouseforrent.com B13,500, May or Wes, wes@pillarmarketing.com, 0899733276

PROPERTY FOR RENT Property for rent YAMU

Very big house. 400sqm, Land 4400sqm. Available 1st May. 4 bedrooms- 4 bathrooms , swimming pool. Close BIS, UWCT. Must see. Long term lease 110,000 baht/month including pool+ garden service. Khun DIDIER, aouichedidier@ hotmail.com, 093 717 9343 (English+French)/ 089 552 9303 (Thai)

PROPERTY FOR SALE Rawai 1 Bed Seaview Condo Sale

Fantastic seaviews. Fully furnished. Condo facilities including pool and gym. Close to amenities. This 53sqm condo at Babylon Sky Garden is a great buy. B4,297,277, Andy, phuket@ thairesidential.com

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PROPERTY FOR SALE G UR

Paul MOORHOUSE

‘Frontline’ sea view villa overlooking Ao Yon Bay and the southern islands.

Magnificent property with private elevator, 4 bedroom suites/6 bathrooms as well as 2 living areas, European design kitchen, games room, bar, sauna, steam room and wonderful pool deck with in-ground jacuzzi, infinity pool and waterfall. Fabulous property reduced to 65 million Baht for quick sale. 0898737075.

1 Bedroom Condo Kata Sale

Lovely condo at Utopia Kata for Sale. Completed in 2017 and close to Kata Beach. Fully furnished. Close to restaurants and amenities. Great views. Rental programme. Full facilities. Dimtry, 082 030 7199. B7,100,000

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Dream Village Phuket house

2bed 2bath 295sqm land 100sqm living + veranda, compl. renovated: new water, electric., tiles, paint in/out, windows, 3A/C, built in kitchen. 0870608400 English/German. Email: picharly@gmail.com, B4.9mill.

Royal Phuket Marina 2 Bed

2-Bedroom Royal Phuket Marina Condo. Seen to be believed. 195m2 Stylish, Tastefully-Decorated Condominium Fully Furnished Overlooking Yacht Marina an absolute bargain @ 13.5 Million BahtTina, phuket@thairesidential.com, 948411918.

PROPERTY FOR RENT

COMMUNITY

1 Bed Condo in Kamala

Great 1 Bed Condo just 200m fromKamala Beach. Comes with pool and onsite restaurant. Fantastic location and not to be missed. Fully furnished with appliances. Homestay or investment.

B5,417,000. Call Andy. 083 800 1888

1 Bed Condo Sale Rawai

Saturdays Residence beautiful condo in Rawai. Tastefully decorated with class. Short drive to beach. All condo amenities. Looks so good that you do need to see to believe. You will fall in love at first sight. B6,300,000, Dimitry, phuket@thairesidential.com, 082 030 7199

Renovated 3bed Home Boat Lagoon

AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY: Beautifully renovated & decorated 3bed+mezzanine, 250 sqm contemporary house featuring: boat berth, rooftop jacuzzi, open kitchen, wine cooler, 2 parkings, storage & laundry area. B 75,000 per month, Henry Cumberlege, hcumberlege@gmail.com

1 Bed Condo in Kamala

MontAzure Twinpalms Residence-Great condo located in Kamala. The ultimate in luxury. Has got to be seen to be believed. Fantastic facilities in this resort condo. B15,800,000, Tina, 0872699206.

Mai Khao beach condo. Great new condohotel. 470 meters from the sea. 36 sqm.

Wonderful place in Phuket. B3.5mn, +66812958526, Victoria.

Mandala Condominium - Wonderful spacious condo. Great location near Bangtao beach and Laguna. 184sqm with private pool and tropical gardens. B15,900,000, Andy, 083 800 1888

Located at Amari Phuket's lobby building. Size: 33 sqm. Partly furnished: shelves, counter, airconditioner and telephone line. 40,000 THB/ month (negotiation available). Khun Mallika, mallika.t@amari.com, 076 340106 #8006

RPM by owner

Unique luxury condo 2 bed, 2 bath, 155sqm. Foreign FREE HOLD. Architect remodel in tropical white. Jacuzzi.

All round beautiful views. Completely furnished to a high standard. Very motivated owner leaving Thailand.

Available to agents. Priced just REDUCED to 15MB or offers. Contact Brian (Owner) 089 054 4354, 076 360 943. bggvirgo@gmail.com

Mai Khao 1 bed condo for sale

2 Bed Condo Bangtao Phuket

Shop for rent at Amari Phuket, Patong Beach

PASAK LAND 3.9MB 510 sq.m.

Chanote

PASAK LAND 3.9MB 510 sq.m. Chanote

Private location in prestige area. Outstanding Value. Call owner (Alan): 084 0657590.

Stunning Ocean Views!

4 bed/bath large pool villa. Privately located in Cape Heights Cape Yamu.

Furnished. Gardens. Fiber WiFi. 80,000/rent long term or 30 million to sell. Richard, Cape Yamu, Phuket, richarddesmondcapeheights@yahoo. co.uk, +66824203270, WhatsApp

Villa in Patong prime location

One of the last Villas available in Patong. in top condition. 24 hour security. 3 bed, 3 bath, 160sqm living. Fully furnished, garden. Ms. Manatchanok, 0800409411.

Villa Mission Heights Big Pool

3bed, 3 1/2 bath, 330sqm living, 900 sqm land, very quiet area, 2 km mission hill golf, 6km UWC, 8 km airport. owner finance. 0870608400 engl/ german 12.9MB, picharly@gmail. com

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

SPORT 29

Underprivileged youths get No honeymoon for ex-champ Srisaket fighting chance to succeed BOXING

MUAY THAI Bangkok Post

T

he WBC Muaythai has launched a project, founded by Nabhiraks Bhakdibhumi, granddaughter of WBC Muaythai president Kovid Bhakdibhumi, to help provide underprivileged children with a path to success through the sport.

The WBC Muaythai Youth Cares scheme is aimed at fostering positive social inclusion in formal education for youngsters involved in the sport of Muay Thai, she said.

The scheme also offers scholarships to young practitioners of the sport in the Kingdom, according to Nabhiraks.

Over the years, the World Boxing Council has organised WBC Cares boxing activities to inspire young people in many countries around the world.

The WBC Muaythai Youth Cares scheme is another project with a core objective to help develop educational options for young, underprivileged Thai boxers.

They will receive quality educational opportunities so that they will have more chances to succeed in their lives, both inside and outside of the ring.

The WBC Muaythai has selected a group of young Thai boxers from northeastern provinces to receive scholarships.

The boxers, who came to Bangkok to

@thephuketnews

Japanese children pose with two Muay Thai world champions at the WBC Muaythai Youth Cares programme in Tokyo, Japan. Photo: WBC MuayThai receive their financial assistance, along with their families, showed gratitude, diligence and determination to further their formal education with funds from the WBC Muaythai Youth Cares.

The WBC Muaythai Youth Cares is a programme to inspire boxers of a new generation and help expand the country’s traditional martial art globally, Nabhiraks said.

The project recently organised a wai kru [paying respects to teachers] ceremony at the Thai embassy in Tokyo.

“It is a great opportunity to showcase Thailand’s culture,” said Bannasarn Bunnag, the Thai ambassador to Japan.

Young Japanese boxers also took part in the event.

“Our programme is committed to the wellbeing of young people who participate in Muay Thai,” Nabhiraks said at the event.

“Our global network will allow young boxers to share their interests and techniques, and help each other during difficult times.

“Muay Thai has a long storied history and a deep rooted tradition. We are bringing that to young Japanese boxers.”

Two Japanese WBC Muaythai champions also attended the event and gave motivational speeches to the young fighters.

Following the success of the programme in Tokyo, the WBC Muaythai Youth Cares will organise similar events around the world. The next one will be held in Moscow on June 20.

DETHRONED CHAMPION Srisaket Sor Rungvisai has shelved his honeymoon plans as he intends to return to training camp as soon as possible in his bid to win back the title.

The Thai lost his WBC super-flyweight crown to Mexico’s Juan Francisco Estrada in a rematch at the Forum in Inglewood, California, last Friday (Apr 26).

The Mexican won by a unanimous decision with scores of 116-112, 115-113 and 115-113.

Estrada lost to Srisaket with a majority decision in their first meeting at the same venue in February last year.

The former champion, 32, arrived at Suvarnabhumi airport on Monday and was greeted by well-wishers and members of his family, including his wife Pornpimol.

The couple, who married in November, had planned their honeymoon in Chiang Mai after Friday’s fight but Srisaket said on Monday he would only take a short rest.

“She understands,” said the boxer.

Srisaket Sor Rungvisai kisses his wife at Suvarnabhumi airport on Monday (Apr 29).

Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb “I want to train to prepare for my third fight with Estrada.

I can’t wait to meet him again.

I promise that I will bring the belt back to Thailand.”

Srisaket admitted that Estrada had prepared well for Friday’s bout.

“I will train harder. I am confident that I will win in the next fight. I am not disheartened by the loss,” he said.

Pornpimol said she understands her husband’s intention.

“I will always stand by him. He wants to return to the training camp as soon as possible,” she said.

Srisaket’s handler Thianchai Pisitwuttinan said he had talked to British promoter Eddie Hearn who said the third fight should take place in six months.

Bangkok Post

30 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

Strongest start in F1 history Continued from page 32 ...“Boring, isn’t it?” Vettel quipped after finishing a close but ineffectual third. “It’s not just four races; it has been four years, more or less.”

But the four-time German champion is perceptive enough to know his team wasn’t dominated on the track so much as on the pit wall. Ferrari had a car quick enough to win, yet it failed to protect its vulnerabilities from the well-honed Mercedes machine.

Qualifying was where Ferrari’s weekend began to unravel. Leclerc’s crash in Q2 was undoubtedly his own responsibility, but Ferrari had put him on the low-grip medium-compound tyre on a slippery track, a strategy Mercedes had considered and rejected for being too risky on the treacherous track.

So Ferrari started the top10 shootout compromised with just Vettel in contention.

Mercedes smelt blood and

Valtteri Bottas drove a perfect race around the Baku City Circuit. Photo: Mercedes AMG Petronas

moved in for the kill.

Understanding the importance of the slipstream on the long Baku straight, Mercedes strategists dummied Vettel on his final lap. Both Bottas and Hamilton left the pit lane early, baiting the German into following, but then stopped in the area marked for practice starts, forcing Sebastian to cruise past onto an empty circuit and set his pole attempt without that crucial tow.

The slipstream was worth up to 0.6 seconds. Vettel fell short by just 0.3.

If Mercedes was going to slip up, it would have been in managing the battle between its two drivers, but even here it was flawless. Hamilton and Bottas raced hard off the line, going side by side into the first two turns, but they left each other generous room to ensure the team’s one-two result was protected.

It compares poorly with the situation in Maranello, where Vettel’s de facto number-one status is causing tension and cannot be discounted as contributing to Leclerc’s crash, driven as he is to prove he’s deserving of equal status.

“I think that what we did

Mercedes’s Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas tops the drivers’ table after his win at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix last Sunday (Apr 28). Photo: Wolfgang Wilhelm in the first races was put all the things together,” Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said. “The team didn’t do any mistakes, the strategy calls were right, the drivers didn’t put a foot wrong, and that made us win the first four races.

“Then when you look

at [Ferrari], they had more problems.”

No matter which way you cut it, the Scuderia has been outfoxed by the sharper team.

“We are pushing as hard as we can, but obviously you need to respect that they are doing phenomenally well and

getting their cars most of the time in the right place,” Vettel said. “[We have to] work harder, work better.”

But to work better than the experienced Mercedes team is a tall order, and after four races Ferrari is already running out of time.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

SPORT 31

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Premier League giants limp towards finish line FOOTBALL

Kieran Canning

T

ottenham, Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United all failed to muster a win for the second consecutive Premier League weekend as the contenders for a place in next season’s Champions League stumble towards the finish line.

Spurs, in third place behind runaway pacesetters Manchester City and Liverpool, are best-placed to secure a fourth straight season of Champions League football.

Their 1-0 win over Brighton on Tuesday (Apr 24) is the only time in the past 10 games involving the four sides that one of them has won.

Chelsea are in pole position for fourth, two points ahead of Arsenal, with United’s chances now looking slim – they are a point behind Arsenal with a significantly inferior goal difference.

A first defeat at the club’s new stadium, against West Ham on Saturday, means Spurs have now lost 12 times in the league this season.

Yet it has still been a campaign of overachievement by Mauricio Pochettino’s men.

Despite not signing a single player, spending most of the season at their temporary home of Wembley, and losing talismanic striker Harry Kane for two prolonged spells through injury, Spurs are still the best of the rest in the Premier League behind City and Liverpool and have reached the Champions League semi-finals.

“The stress and the fatigue arrived, We are competing with circumstances that are not the best,” admitted Pochettino after a sixth defeat

@thephuketnews

Tottenham, Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United have all missed several chances to take control of the top four race. Photo: Paul Ellis in 10 Premier League games.

Spurs’ skeleton squad have understandably run out of gas, but thanks to the profligacy of their rivals, one more win from their final two games against Bournemouth and Everton will guarantee much-needed Champions League cash again next season.

Maurizio Sarri launched an uncharacteristically staunch defence of his first season in charge at Stamford Bridge after a 1-1 draw away to United last Sunday consolidated his side’s place in the top four.

“We played the final in the League Cup, we are fighting for the top four, we are in the semi-finals of the Europa League. I think we have done a good season.”

Sarri has had his troubles this season. He publicly criticised his players’ mentality following capitulations on the road at Arsenal, Bournemouth and Everton, while his demand for the loan signing of Gonzalo Higuain in January has reaped precious little reward.

Worse could come, with

Eden Hazard reportedly closing in on a summer move to Real Madrid and the club currently banned from signing any new players to replace the Belgian for the next two transfer windows.

Therefore, it is all the more imperative that Chelsea get back in the Champions League next season.

Much of the good work done by Unai Emery over nine months to rebuild the Gunners in the first season since Arsene Wenger’s departure has come undone over three defeats to Crystal Palace, Wolves and Leicester in eight days.

The defensive issues that dogged Wenger’s final years in charge still need to be resolved, while Emery constantly chops and changes his formation and personnel in midfield and attack.

A t h ree -t i me Eu ropa League winner with Spanish La Liga side Sevilla, that competition may now prove Arsenal’s best route back to the Champions League but a tough tie against Emery’s old side Valencia awaits in

the semi-finals.

Despite a run of seven defeats in nine games, United remarkably still had a good chance of hauling themselves into the top four had they held onto an early lead against Chelsea on Sunday.

However, United’s current malaise is personified by a dramatic dip in form for goalkeeper David de Gea, who has so often been his side’s saviour in recent seasons.

The Spaniard was at fault for Marcos Alonso’s equaliser, which secured Chelsea a point and left Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitting his side now have a “mountain to climb”.

A trip to hapless Huddersfield and Cardiff’s visit to Old Trafford on the final day of the season at least offer an excellent chance to lift the mood heading into the summer.

“We need to focus on our two games, win games again,” said Solskjaer, but a big rebuilding job remains ahead for the Norwegian.

AFP

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giggs 209 Griffsbar 208 fazza 205 Pugwash 201 phils64 198

English Premier League 2018 - 2019 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Team

MP

W

D

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F

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Manchester City Liverpool Tottenham Hotspur Chelsea Arsenal Manchester United Wolverhampton Leicester City Everton Watford West Ham United Crystal Palace Newcastle United Bournemouth Burnley Southampton Brighton Cardiff City Fulham Huddersfield Town

36 36 36 36 36 36 36 36 36 36 36 36 36 36 36 36 36 36 36 36

30 28 23 20 20 19 15 15 14 14 13 12 11 12 11 9 9 9 7 3

2 7 1 8 6 8 9 6 8 8 7 7 9 6 7 11 8 4 5 5

4 1 12 8 10 9 12 15 14 14 16 17 16 18 18 16 19 23 24 28

90 84 65 60 69 64 46 51 50 51 45 43 36 52 44 44 33 30 34 20

22 20 36 39 49 51 44 47 44 52 54 48 45 65 63 61 55 66 76 74

+68 +64 +29 +21 +20 +13 +2 +4 +6 -1 -9 -5 -9 -13 -19 -17 -22 -36 -42 -54

92 91 70 68 66 65 54 51 50 50 46 43 42 42 40 38 35 31 26 14

Sport

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor3@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

Premier League giants limp to the finish line > p31

Last year’s ladies tournament saw Bangkok Bangers Belles take the title. This year there will be eight teams competing. Photo: Pat Cotter

READY TO RUMBLE

Phuket to hold 21st Aussie Bar International Rugby Tens RUGBY

Pat Cotter

W

ell it’s that time of the year again when one of the region’s premier rugby tens tournaments comes to town.

Hosted at the awesome Thanyapura Sports Club, the Aussie Bar Men’s & Women’s Open tournaments both have quality teams and will be strongly contested going into

Sunday’s Finals.

The women’s tournament will be especially interesting having been expanded to eight teams this year.

As is traditional, the weekend kicks off on Friday May 24 with the Athena Siam Coffin Dodgers Vets for over 35s and the One Foot in the Grave over 45s vets. Some silky skills and all manner of brilliance, trickery and treachery will no doubt be on show.

With teams from Aus-

tralia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore and Thailand, it will be worth coming down to watch rugby from a bygone era.

In the men’s Open, the defending champions Phuket Vagabonds will again make a play for top honours, but with two of last year’s Cup semi-finalists in town – East Admiralty from Hong Kong and the PAC Barbarians – fresh from their Bangkok tens triumph, could it prove

a step too far?

There will also be other contenders with the South African Scorpions out to cause an upset. US Marine side the Yomitan Beach Boys, Phnom Penh Shining Rahus and Vientiane Buffaloes, all making their debuts, will be stiff competition. Regulars the Groot Eylandt Mudchooks, Bedok Kings, The KL Tigers and the Bangkok Bangers, led by ex-Vagabond legend Darren Mathee, will be looking to

impose their brand of running rugby on the competition. It’s great to see the local Thai lads The Old Man Mix again step into the breach in what is a big step up for them.

The women’s tournament will be a hard one to call with Phnom Penh Shining Rahus, Chinas Shenzhen Dragons, Emirates Firebirds, Wahine RFC from Japan Vientiane Buffaloes & KL Tigers Ladies all making first appearances.

Last year’s champions the

Bangkok Bangers Belles could well find it tough to retain the trophy.

We raise funds over the weekend for the Asia Center Foundation scholarship program. Find out more at www. asiacenterfoundation.org or email Roelien Muller direct at roemuthai@gmail.com.

Entrance is free so come on down for a weekend of rugby, fun and games, and catch up with friends old and new.

Mercedes breaks records, Ferrari hearts BOX OF NEUTRALS Michael Lamonato michael@boxofneutrals.com

THE AZERBAIJAN GRAND Prix was supposed to be a slamdunk Ferrari weekend, but all the Scuderia took away from Baku

was the realisation that rumours of Mercedes’s impending demise have been greatly exaggerated.

The fourth edition of the Azeri street race was not an all-time classic but may well be looked back upon as an example of textbook execution by the German marque, which managed to lock out the front row of the grid and cruise

to a one-two finish.

It’s the fourth race in succession Mercedes has claimed a perfect result, making this the strongest start to a season of any constructor in Formula One history.

The pain inf licted on Ferrari was twofold. Not only has it slumped to a 74-point deficit in

the constructors standings – drivers Sebastian Vettel and Charles Leclerc are 35 and 40 points respectively behind the table-topping Valtteri Bottas – but it was shown up as lacking the kind of racing nous required to mount a credible challenge to the team that has dominated F1 for a half-decade.

Continued on page 30

Mercedes got a fourth consecutive one-two finish – the strongest start in F1 history. Photo: Srdjan Suki thephuketnews