The Phuket News 05 April 2019

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FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

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Blessed water ceremony for Royal Coronation

ARMY TO TEACH PATONG TUK-TUK, TAXI DRIVERS MANNERS AFTER VICIOUS BEATING OF TOURISTS

LIFE

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Army personnel speaks with tuk-tuk drivers on Patong’s beachfront road. Photo: The Phuket News / file

Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

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oyal Thai Army soldiers based in Phuket will call in tuk-tuk and taxi drivers in Patong for an “attitude adjustment” briefing after two tourists were viciously beaten in the tourism town last week.

The training session, politely called “public transport training for drivers – tut-tuk, taxi and motorbike taxi as the better service”, is being orchestrated by the Phuket Land Transport Office (PLTO).

In the attack at about 11pm last Thursday (Mar 28), six public transport drivers – comprising taxi driv-

ers, tuk-tuk drivers and at least one motorcycle taxi driver – beat two male tourists from the UAE to the ground in the middle of Pracha Nukroh Rd in front of Malin Plaza in Patong.

The drivers proceeded to kick the tourists – including repeated kicks to the head – while they were on the ground, in full view of any other tourists shopping and dining at the popular market.

Parts of the vicious beating were recorded by a bystander. In the video recording, a woman’s voice can be heard screaming for the attackers to stop. Her pleas were ignored.

However, PLTO Chief Banyat Kantha told The Phuket News this

week that the “attitude training” was already planned before the violent attack.

Mr Banyat, who as PLTO Chief is responsible for issuing licences to all public transport drivers on the island, refused to confirm or deny whether any action by his office was being taken to prevent another vicious attack on tourists again, despite the six suspects already being arrested and charged – and currently being held behind bars on remand pending trial for affray causing bodily harm.

“We set up this training for public transport drivers (of note, all “public transport” in Phuket is owned and operated by private companies and

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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operators) before this incident,” he said.

“Their behaviour needed to be improved anyway,” he added.

Yet, exactly what will be taught at the “training” and how, will be left up to the military, Mr Banyat confirmed.

“I don’t have the details of this training for now. I have to talk with military officials about it,” he said on Tuesday (Apr 2).

Lt Col Santi Sakuntanark, Commander of the Royal Thai Army’s 25th Military Circle, which is based in Phuket, was polite in explaining his role.

“This training is the PLTO’s job...

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Canal water released onto Kamala beach > p4

Blessings by water The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

O

fficials this week conducted a formal rehearsal for the water collection ceremony to be held in Phuket as part of the Royal Coronation ceremonies taking place nationwide this Saturday (Apr 6), when tributes of sacred water will be gathered from 108 locations throughout the country.

In Phuket, as rehearsed for mally on Wed nesday (Apr 3), sacred water will be drawn from the well at Wat Chalong, officially called Wat Chaiyathararam, explained Komart Pankeard, Chief of Phuket office of the Ministry of Culture.

“Everything is going well.

More than 80 people from Phuket provincial offices and local residents joined the rehearsals in preparation

Governor Phakaphong leads the rehearsal of the sacred water drawing ceremony at Wat Chalong . Photo: PR Dept to ensure that the ceremonies will be conducted smoothly and correctly,” he told The Phuket News.

“The water will be drawn from the well at Wat Chalong because the well was dug during the time when the deeply revered Phra Visutthiwongsajarn Yanmunee (better known as Luang Por Chaem) was abbot, Mr Komart said.

“People believe that the well is sacred and that its water is able to heal people.

This well was also used for the Royal Coronation ceremony for King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX),” he added.

According to the official itinerary for Saturday (Apr 6), the ceremony at Wat Chalong will start at 10am, with prayers and the lighting of candles

during, followed by a call for blessings from angels.

At 11:52am, Governor Phakaphong will lead the ceremony, during which water will be poured into a five-litre golden ceremonial bowl called a “Kan Sakon”, which will then be closed with a lid, covered with a blessed white cloth tied with a white ribbon.

The water will then be carried by procession to Wat Prathong in Thalang, where it is to arrive at 12:38pm. Not one drop is to be spilled, Mr Komart noted.

The water will stay at Wat Prathong, where blessing ceremonies will begin at 3pm on Monday (Apr 8).

Governor Phakaphong is to arrive at 4pm, when candlelighting blessing ceremonies and mass prayers by 30 monks will begin. The Governor, charged by Royal Command to lead the blessing ceremonies,

will be called on to read a special Brahmin prayer before he is allowed to enter the blessed area where the water is being kept. The prayers and blessing ceremonies will continue until 10pm.

On Tuesday (Apr 9), mass prayers will begin at 9am.

At 10am the candles will be extinguished and the Kan Sakon will be sprinkled by with blessed water from Wat Prathong, which is dedicated as a provincial royal temple.

The white cloth covering the Kan Sakon will then be removed and the Governor will decant water from the Kan Sakon into a Kan Tor – a royal ceramic urn handmade especially for the Royal Coronation of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun, complete with the royal coronation emblem hand-painted on it.

The Kan Tor will then

be sealed before Governor Phakaphong leads an almsgiving ceremony, which will be followed by more prayers.

The mass prayers will conclude at 1pm, with the Governor and his entourage and police escort departing the temple by motorcade at 5pm.

Governor Phakaphong and his police escort must travel with the water all the way to the Royal Palace in Bangkok, Mr Komart said.

“I am not sure what time they are to arrive there,” he added, though the official schedule of events for the coronation will see the holy water collected nationwide sanctified at Wat Suthat in the capital on April 18.

“The public are welcome to attend the ceremonies and prayers,” Mr Komart explained.

“All attendees are asked to wear yellow,” he said.

Patong drivers in attack on tourists Continued from page 1 ...to do, but they don’t have many officers so we are happy to support them in doing their job,’ he said.

Regarding the usual behaviour of Phuket’s public transport drivers, Col Santi agreed with Mr Banyat.

“The behaviour needs to be improved for better service,” he said.

“Our main purpose is to protect our tourism.

We will cover the issues of law enforcement, public transport driver’s licenses, parking spaces, being service-oriented when serving tourists and not extorting them, and so on,” Col Santi explained.

“I expect about 100 drivers to take part in the training, which will be held before the Songkran holidays,” he added.

“The training might take two or three days, but that is up to the PLTO,” he said.

“Everything we do is to prevent cheating or extortion in the tourism industry. We do this to protect the tourism industry of the nation,” Col Santi said.

All six suspects arrested for the attack have been refused bail and are being held in remand, Patong Police Chief Col Anotai Jindamanee confirmed.

“Five suspects are being held at Phuket Provincial Prison right now. The other one suspect is not over 20 years old. He will be handed over to the Phuket Juvenile and Family Court today,” Col Anotai said on Tuesday (Apr 2).

“They all have already been charged with affray causing bodily harm by attacking two tourists,” Col Anotai confirmed.

However, police have yet to conclude their investigation, he added.

The vicious attack by the Patong drivers was recorded on video by a bystander.

Image: Supplied “We have yet to complete our questioning of six other witnesses, so we requested that the suspects be held at Phuket Provincial Prison for 12 days, from March 30 to April 10.

“They have been refused bail while the investigation is in process. If police granted them bail, then the suspects might flee the charges,” he said.

Phuket Immigration have already taken statements from the tourists involved, Col Anotai explained.

“And Phuket Immigration led the tourists in identifying the suspects,” he added.

The tourists departed Phuket last Friday (Mar 29), the day after the attack.

“They returned home on a flight back to Dubai on Emirates Airline Flight EK 2593 on March 29. They thanked everyone involved in arresting all the suspects,” Col Anotai said.

Col Anotai identified the tourists attacked as Khalil Humaid Obid Ali Al Al Kaabi, 38, and Abdulla Humaid Obid Ali Al Kaabi, 35.

“I don’t know who started the fight first.

We are still questioning the people involved now, but the tourists also fought back,” Col Anotai explained. thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

B20mn plan unveiled to expand Bang Neow

Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

Ombudsman rails on luggage thefts

Bang Neow Dum reservoir Thursday last week (Mar 28). Photo: Phuket Irrigation Office sible, a request for budget funds has been filed with Phuket Governor Phakaphong Tavipatana.

“We don’t know how much we will get from the Phuket Provincial budget.

If Phuket Governor Phakaphong approves, this project can start faster, and be completed within a couple of months.

This part of the project will be handled by the Phuket Irrigation Office,” Mr Parinya explained.

Mr Parinya explained that the B20mn required is for the excavation of the main reservoir at Bang Neow Dum only.

“We need this as quickly as possible, before the heavy rains start,” he said.

“Later, we want to install weirs around the reservoir to hold water which can be used later when needed. The lack of weirs at the reservoir is one of the reasons it has not held enough water to last the dry season,” Mr Parinya said.

Phuket Provincial Irrigation Office Director Somsawat Chaisinsod gave updated water levels at Phuket’s three main reservoirs: “Bang Wad reservoir in Kathu currently contains some 1.64 million cubic meters of its 10mn-plus m3 capacity. Bang Neow Dum contains about 1.25mn m3 of water, and the Khlong Kratha reservoir in Chalong currently contains about 1.21mn m3 of water,” he added.

Explosives, mines on local islands TWO MEN H AVE BEEN CH A RGED with possession of bomb-making materials on an island in Phang Nga Bay following an investigation into fishermen being wounded by an apparent land mine early last week.

One of the men injured in the blast later died from his injuries.

Officers led by Krabi Police Deputy Chief Col Tanit Ramdit and Ao Luek Police Chief Col Kritnat Wongklahan raided the island, Koh Thalu, last Thursday (Mar 28).

Joining the raid party were police investigators, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel and Marine Police.

The raid team found bomb-making materials at a shelter at the entrance to a bird’s nest cave.

Officers also arrested Choknapat Khun­ kham, 44, and an 18-year-old man who police so far have named only as “Mr Eak”, both of whom had been hired to guard the bird’s nest cave.

Among the materials found were a bag containing electrical wires, batteries, nails, electronic panels and a blasting cap.

Chokapanat and Eak were both taken into custody and charged with with possession of explosives and weapons without a permit.

They have both denied the charges against them, saying they were not involved with the bomb materials found.

They were just hired to look after the island and protect the island from bird’s nest thieves, the men said.

Police did not name the person or company with the government concession to operate a bird’s nest operation on the island.

However, Provincial Police Region 8 Chief Lt Gen Pongwuth Pongsri ordered officers to continue their search and check all islands @thephuketnews

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Gen Viddhavat inspects airport security in order to help prevent thefts from passengers’ luggage. Photo: PR Dept

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B20-million plan to expand the capacity of Bang Neow Dum reservoir in Srisoonthorn is in motion to help prevent further watersupply shortages during future extended dry spells across Phuket.

Irrigation Office 15 Director Parinya Sakkanayok confirmed the news to The Phuket News on Monday (April 1) following his inspection of Bang Neow Dum reservoir last Thursday (Mar 28).

As chief of Irrigation Office 15, Mr Parinya is the leading government official responsible for water resources development in the seven provinces in Upper Southern Thailand: Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Sri Thammarat, Ranong, Phang Nga, Krabi and Phuket.

“Bang Neow Dum reservoir will have added capacity by making the walls higher and by excavating the inside of the reservoir,” Mr Parinya told The Phuket News on Monday (April 1).

“We are drawing up the plans to make sure the action is suitable for the Bang Neow Dum reservoir. I have already submitted this project to the Royal Irrigation Department in Bangkok. We need the budget to be approved before we can start,” he said.

As a secondary measure in the hope of starting the project as quickly as pos-

PHUKET NEWS

The search for more explosives on the islands continues after one man died after stepping on a mine last week. Photo: Screenshot / Krabi PR Office in their respective areas, and to identify who had ordered for hidden bombs to be placed to protect any bird’s nest sites in the area, which is frequented by tourists enjoying boat tours to islands in the bay.

Police suspect more explosives may have been planted on another island in the area, Koh Lao Pai. The intensity to find the perpetrator follows one of the two men seriously injured by a blast on Koh Lao Pai – just a handful of kilometres north of Koh Yao Noi – dying from his injuries only days earlier.

The slain fisherman Boodrod Thongdee, 25, stepped on a mine on Koh Lao Pai, police explained.

Walking alongside Mr Boonrod was his relative Somkid Thongdee, 38, who suffered blast injuries to his right leg, a broken right arm, injuries to his left shoulder, left ankle and wounds to his face.

The third man, fellow relative Somchai Thongdee, 35, was also injured in the blast, but not critically.

Tanyaluk Sakoot

TH E CHIEF OM BU DSman for Thailand has called for better security measures to be introduced at Phuket International Airport to prevent the theft of valuables from passengers’ luggage in the security-controlled areas at the airport.

Gen Viddhavat Rajatanun, officially holding the position “Ombudsman for Chief Ombudsman Thailand”, raised the issue while inspecting the airport facilities on Tuesday (Apr 3).

“We are aware of passengers travelling by plane having valuable assets packed in luggage that was loaded under the plane. The items packed in the luggage failed to arrive at the destination,” he said.

“This has an impact on the confidence of security

standards. We must urgently find solutions to this problem, fast,” Gen Viddhavat said.

“This has happened at Suvarnabhumi Airport. I must provide suggestions to relevant agencies here, too. Officials must check the loading operations of passengers’ things and the aircraft parking areas,” Gen Viddhavat advised.

“Among the solutions to this problem, first we must control the entry and exit of personal vehicles in controlled areas, and we must set patrol lines for checking staff and their belongings,” he said.

Gen Viddhavat also remarked on the facility already having more than 795 CCTV cameras installed.

The airport may need more CCTV cameras installed, Gen Viddhavat noted.

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PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM PHUKET SEVEN DAY WEATHER FORECAST

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Man dies after hitting U-turning cement truck

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A MAN DIED AFTER HIS motorbike collided with a cement truck that was making a U-turn on Thepkasattri Rd in Thalang last Saturday afternoon (Mar 30).

The accident happened on the west side of Thepkrasattri Rd at the U-turn approximately 800 metres north of Thalang Police Station.

Thalang Police were notified of the accident at about 4:20pm and arrived at the scene to find a broken down cement truck parked sideways on the road and a totally wrecked Honda CB500X motorbike wedged into the side of the truck.

The driver of the cement truck, 23-year-old Teerachai Jaratphan, told Capt Warawut Sensob of Thalang Police Station that he was driving northbound on Thepkrasattri Rd and that as he was mak-

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Canal water across beach under fire Waranya Prompinpiras reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

The Honda CB500X was wrecked after crashing into the cement truck in Thalang on Saturday (Mar 30). ing the U-turn, another truck that was heading towards him moved into the left lane.

The motorbike then suddenly crashed into the side of the truck.

The motorbike driver, Sompak Petchwang, 35, from Ranong, died later in hospital.

Teerachai was preliminarily charged with causing death by reckless driving while the investigation into the cause of the accident continues.

Eakkapop Thongtub

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fficials in Kamala have defended their efforts to clear the black wastewater in the Pak Bang Canal from being released across the beach, saying that the water is now “better” and “clearer”, but admit that contaminants still line the waterway as it crosses the sand.

The response follows a video posted online by respected local marine conservation group Go Eco Phuket last Saturday (Mar 30) showing the black water flowing across the beach into the sea.

“What people can see is the treated water released onto the beach, but the black is from the sludge that still lines the

The channel runs across Kamala Beach.

Photo: Kamala OrBorTor channel. We will remove that as soon as possible,” Nopporn Karuna, Deputy Chief Executive of the Kamala Tambon Administrative Organisation (OrBorTor) told The Phuket News on Tuesday (Apr 2).

“I inspected the Pak Bang Canal at today (Apr 2). Now, the water has started to clear up. Also the water smells better… But we will have to figure out with public works officials to have the black dregs removed from the channel across the beach as soon as possible,” Mr Nopporn said.

Mr Nopporn also speculated that the video had been recorded before the effects of the ozone water-treatment

machines began having a positive effect on cleaning the filthy water in the canal.

Ittiput Schadt, Secretary of Go Eco Phuket, told The Phuket News, “My purpose (in posting the video) is to not have wastewater flowing onto Kamala Beach because it destroys the image of tourism.

“My idea is to have officials stop any wastewater flowing onto the beach. They can take all the water to be used elsewhere and fill the channel across the beach with sand.

“That will prevent any wastewater flowing onto Kamala Beach ever again,” he said.

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

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EDITORIAL

Growing pains

I

t may be a bitter pill to swallow, but the plethora of notices this week announcing one power shutdown after another so that power lines across the island can be upgraded and maintained is a good sign. It is evidence that work is actually being done to maintain power supply and reduce future systemic failures.

Much of the work is being carried out in Thalang, easily the fastest-growing residential area on the island over the past 10 years, and as always, where people move to live, businesses to support those communities soon follow.

We will always argue that we should aim for better, and the only way power supply is assessed is by when it fails.

Thankfully those days seem to be behind us. Power failures now mostly come when power lines or pylons are felled by trees, storms or vehicles, the

same problems where aboveground power lines are used in Western countries.

Despite the current delay thanks to a failing to insist that private companies submit correct information about their networks, the project to install the electricity and communications cables underground in Patong – though years late since the project’s inception – is also much welcome news.

The obvious visual benefit is already present in the Phuket Old Town area, and brings with it a sense of being in a country that genuinely cares for its appearance and infrastructure.

Other good news this week was the eventual realisation that the capacity of the Bang Neow Dum reservoir must be expanded to cater to the growing population of the island. The explanation that weirs are also to be used to expand capacity – and not

the standard go-to solution of using gam ling monkey cheek micro-reservoirs, which work only when the reservoir itself overflows – showed genuine appraisal of the specific situation at Bang Neow Dum. This does not happen enough in resolving critical issues in Phuket. Usually the mindset that “a band-aid will do” prevails, as most officials do not stick around long enough to be held responsible when the so-called “solution” fails.

Infrastructure is key to the survival of any growing tourism destination and we are finally seeing some genuine thought and application in resolving these critical issues, for both the short and the long term. Now if we could only do the same with wastewater pollution in our canals and beach water, the poor management of our solid waste disposal and, as always, traffic.

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Phuket’s Songkran festivities announced Patong tuk-tuk, motorbike taxi drivers charged for violent attack on tourists Snake ssssafety: Avoiding bites from Phuket’s venomous residents Patong Beach sunbed operators push for more space on the sand Nicobar earthquakes no cause for alarm Patong underground cable project hits delays All six Patong taxi, tuk-tuk drivers charged for beating tourists denied bail Man stabs ex-girlfriend’s new boyfriend repeatedly in jealous attack Austrian cancer-sufferer, 71, dies after 14-storey fall from Patong hotel roof Visa-on-arrival waiver extension in the works

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

HAVE YOUR SAY In a tangle

Re: Patong underground cable project hits delays Never going to happen in the time allotted. Works will blow out by several billion baht, and this time in a number of years from now the work will still not be completed.

There appears to be a pattern emerging here and the Thai government refuses to enlist help from outside Thailand.

Solution: leave it the way it is and life goes on.

Donna N Tony Patmore Leave the cables alone. If I want to holiday in a country that they are trying to make look like a Western country then I will stay in my own country. Just like the street food vendors, these things are what make Thailand unique.

Pat Slattery

One day of safety

Re: Phuket boat operators asked to be careful during Asean ministerial visit The announcement No. 7/2019 is a funny document.

Asking boat operators to “be careful” during the Asean ministerial visit means that the Phuket Marine Office

knows that many Thai tour boat operators are normally not careful. The notice should be for 365 days of the year, not only during a visit of Asean officials. It’s a show of false and not standard safety.

Kurt So only during the ministerial visit, then back to normal unsafe conditions?

Typical thinking. Though I must admit it has been a few weeks since they managed to kill someone.

Rorri_2 The other 364 days of the year, go crazy guys, no-one cares…

Nasa12

Like sardines

Re: Patong Beach sunbed operators push for more space on the sand That’s the last thing Patong needs. Patong Beach is already very, very dirty. Most of the beach is already for sunbeds and jet-skis. There is very little space as it is for normal beachgoers. What will be better is a massive beach clean-up.

Simon Lomas

Let’s start by forbidding all parasailing and jet-skis on Patong Beach. That will bring some peace and nature back to the beach.

Jeroen Tak No rubbish dumpsters seen on any beaches. Why don’t they focus on that too?

Alessandro Baldieri

Turn for the worse

Re: Major accident at Uturn on Thepkasattri Rd At many public hearings, local folks have voted against overpass U-turns all along Thepkrasattri Rd, pushing the local administration and the Department of Land Transport to make dangerous U-turns.

The public should blame the selfishness of those who refuse to give or sell some land to make safe overpass U-turns as it is done in Bangkok and surrounding provinces.

Seafarer Divers Charlie Phuket Maximum speed by drivers in a U-turn is 0.7km/h. In a country with a proper license you learn how to keep the traffic flowing and not become a danger for others, but that idea

is entirely left out here. I’ve had more than one emergency brake on the big bike for guys U-turning in super slow motion.

Steffen Singto When doing U-turns, most only look in the direction they intend to travel and not what's coming and just pull out expecting it to stop for them.

So sad to see every day more dead but it happens more often than the sun rises and nothing is ever done.

Simon Lomas

On steady ground

Re: Nicobar earthquakes no cause for alarm It's the Klong Marui fault line we need to be concerned about on Phuket. That hasn't had a rumble for several years now.

Geoffrey Morris

Round of apaws

Re: Singer Will Young sells BRIT Awards, donates funds to Soi Dog Thank you so much. I have donated to Soi Dog Foundation for several years as they are fighting the war against the horrific dog meat trade.

Jean Watts

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THAILAND NEWS

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flooded by Thanathorn: Sedition Pattaya flash thunderstorm charge is ‘dark power’ CHON BURI

BANGKOK

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opular Fut ure Forwa rd Pa r t y lea der T h a n a t ho r n Ju a n groongruangkit confirmed on Wednesday (Apr 3) he had been summonsed by police to answer a charge of sedition brought by the National Council for Peace and Order, describing it as the use of “dark power”.

Mr Thanathorn wrote on his social media account on Wednesday morning that the summons was sent to his house, ordering him to report to Pathumwan police station at 10am on Saturday (Apr 6).

He also posted a picture of the summons issued by the Royal Thai Police Office last Friday. The document named his accuser as Col Burin Thongprapai, a legal officer of the NCPO. It did not refer to any particular act of alleged sedition.

Reuters reported the complaint against Thanathorn was filed by the army in 2015 over his involvement in help-

@thephuketnews

Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit at his Future Forward Party headquarters. Photo: Lillian Suwanrumpha ing anti-junta protesters that year, according to a police officer speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak to the media.

“When the dark power does not let go of Future Forward,” Mr Thanathorn wrote at the beginning of his Facebook post.

He said the alleged offence was brought under Section 116 of the Criminal Code. He

wondered when he committed this alleged offence. In the past year, he wrote, he had met people nationwide.

“It is clear that an oldfashioned political game not only refuses to stop after the election but also intensifies, because they are afraid of Future Forward and the unexpected victory of so many people,” Mr Thanathorn wrote.

He said he would meet

police as ordered and prove his innocence. He believed millions of people would support him and would not bow to the “dark power” that wanted to destroy his party.

Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon said on Wednesday that officials were abiding by the law and had only started an investigation to find out if the offence really occurred.

A SEVER E THU NDERstorm dropped pounding rain on Pattaya, causing flooding in many areas with water over one metre deep in places, on Tuesday afternoon (Apr 2).

More than two hours of torrential rain left many areas of the beach city in Bang Lamung district inundated.

Both lanes of the Sukhumvit Highway were flooded, with water rising to 1.5 metres.

The road became impassable to all vehicles. Many cars stalled and were stranded in the floodwater.

Police and Pattaya municipal officials closed the route and helped the affected motorists. It was at least two hours before the road was partially reopened to traffic.

A long stretch of a road leading to Soi Khao Noi and Soi Khao Talo was covered with water 50cm to one metre deep.

Other roads in inner areas such as Pattaya Sai 3, Bua Khao Road and Leap Chaihad Road (Beach Road) were under 30-50 cm of water. These roads were passable, but there

Torrential rain flooded the the highway and other roads in Pattaya on Tuesday (Apr 2). Photo: Bangkok Post was heavy traffic congestion throughout the area.

The wall of sandbags the Marine Department had set up along 2.6km of Pattaya beach was also damaged.

The Meteorological Department on Tuesday forecast that summer storms would continue in areas of upper Thailand into Wednesday, brought by a high pressure system coming in from China meeting rising hot air.

The storms were forecast to bring gusting winds and sometimes hail in the Northeast, North, East and Central regions, including Bangkok and its vicinity.

The weather office again warned people to stay away from outdoor areas, big trees and unsecured billboards during a storm.

Bangkok Post

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THAILAND NEWS

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FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

PM order: 7 days to fix haze

Prayut orders clampdown on crop burning in hazardous north CHIANG MAI Bangkok Post

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rime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha flew into Chiang Mai early on Tuesday (Apr 2) to review the crisis caused by a thick blanket of smog and toxic levels of PM2.5 dust that has been choking Northern Thailand for several weeks.

He demanded a clampdown on crop burning.

“I want to reiterate that the problem of hotspots (crop burning areas) must be solved in seven days,” said the junta leader, who is angling to become the elected civilian prime minister.

“Nobody should ignite fires in the forest,” he said.

The city’s air quality index was 379 as he visited, the worst major urban reading globally and a level that’s hazardous, according to IQAir AirVisual pollution data.

Thai authorities blame crop burning to clear farmland, as well as wildfires in mountainous forests amid a drought and searing heat.

However, Olivier Evrard, a Thailand-based specialist for the Institute of Research for Development, said crop burning was not the only culprit.

The PM hands a leaf blower to an official in Chiang Mai. Photo: AFP “The government has encouraged the population to buy more vehicles and coal plants are still running at full speed,” Evrard said.

Chiang Mai has set up a socalled safe zone for residents in a convention centre, while a university in Chiang Rai cancelled classes on Monday and Tuesday.

“The haze usually comes and goes within a week or two, but it’s been persistent this time – it’s the worst so far,” Khuanchai Supparatpinyo, the director of Chiang Mai University’s Research Institute for Health Sciences, said in an interview. “This can be quite dangerous, and pose health risks.”

Northern Thailand is a popular destination for visitors during the traditional Songkran new year festival in mid-April but the smog has deterred many holidaymakers as expected hotel occupancy rates are down 25% for the holiday period.

The seasonal duration of the haze, which used to last for about

three months, has now increased to six months, according to Chaicharn Pothirat, a lung disease specialist at Chiang Mai University’s Faculty of Medicine.

The long-term effects include an increase in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, he said, adding that he is sceptical the government has any “long-term plan” good enough to tackle the problem.

“They show reporters, they fly to Chiang Mai ... but ... it does not clearly improve the situation,” Chaicharn told AFP. At the start of 2019, the military government was rattled by a second year of spiking seasonal air pollution in Bangkok, exacerbated by traffic fumes, industrial emissions and construction dust.

So far the episodes of smog haven’t damaged tourism but worsening haze could pose a challenge for an industry that’s key to economic growth.

The air was classed as unhealthy in nearby Chiang Rai, where finance ministry officials and central bankers from Southeast Asian nations as well as China, Japan and South Korea met this week. The Bank of Thailand handed out pollution masks to media covering the event.

High-pressure guns, dirty water banned BANGKOK HIGH-PRESSURE WATER guns, ice, dirty water and celebrants drinking alcohol while on vehicles are all banned during the coming Songkran festival.

Pol Gen Chalermkiart Srivorakhan, deputy national police chief, said on Tuesday (Apr 2) the bans came out of a meeting on safety measures to be enforced during the festival, and were intended to boost the confidence of people wanting to celebrate.

Thousands of tourists are expected to participate in the Songkran revelry.

The use of high-pressure water guns, ice and dirty water would be prohibited, as would drinking alcohol while on a vehicle, firing gunshots into the sky and selling alcohol to people under 18 years old, said Pol Gen Chalermkiart, who

chaired the teleconference with senior police and other officials nationwide.

Riding in the back of pickup trucks to throw water during Songkran will be allowed, Pol Gen Chalermkiart said.

He also sought the cooperation of young people in wearing appropriate clothing during the Songkran celebrations.

He said thousands of tourists were expected to participate in the Songkran revelry at popular venues in Bangkok such as Khao San, Silom and Asiatique.

Bangkok Post

thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

BUSINESS NEWS

Visa-on-arrival waiver extension in the works TOURISM

The new PhuketPhnom Penh direct flights will start June 1. Image: Thai AirAsia

Chatrudee Theparat

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lans are afoot to extend the waiver of the visa-on-arrival fee for another three months to ward off an economic slump during the transition to a new government.

Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak said the Immigration Bureau is scheduled to propose to the cabinet at its April 9 meeting an extension of the exemption of the B2,000 visa-on-arrival fee for visitors from 21 nations until July 31 this year.

The fee waiver, designed to give a much-needed boost to the tourism industry, is scheduled to expire on April 30.

“Investors are expected to take a wait-and-see approach over the next three months while the new government is being formed,” said Mr Somkid. “The tourism industry will play a significant role in contributing to economic growth during the period.”

He said infrastructure projects such as the high-speed rail to link Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and U-tapao airports; the port expansion of Laem Chabang and Map Ta Phut; U-tapao aviation city; a maintenance, repair and overhaul centre; and Bangkok mass transit projects are expected to continue regardless of which parties form the new government.

AirAsia to launch Phnom Penh flights AIRLINES Thailand plans to extend the waiver of the visa-on-arrival fee for visitors for another three months to boost tourism. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot Surachate Hakparn, the commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, said Mr Somkid acknowledged that the visa fee exemption has helped draw many visitors the past three months.

The government waived the visa-onarrival fee for visitors from 21 countries to help the tourism industry from Nov 15, 2018, to Jan 14, 2019. The measure was then extended until April 30.

The fee waiver could help attract foreign visitors to travel to Thailand for Songkran, said Mr Surachate.

He said the bureau recently introduced a new service called e-visa-on-arrival to facilitate the immigration process.

The new service cuts processing time for visas on arrival at airports to as little as one minute.

Mr Surachate said the bureau is scheduled to utilise artificial intelligence in the immigration process over the next 4-5 months. The system, through a collaboration with Britain, will be implemented during the Asean summit in November.

Extending the fee waiver was a key agenda item proposed at last week’s Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) meeting, in which local operators were calling for the scheme to run until October, or another six months.

Bangkok Post

Pavilions Regional Director of Global Sales joins Asia team, to lead growth HOSPITALITY LUDOVIC GALLERNE has been appointed to the newly created position of Regional Director of Sales, Asia for The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts. Mr Gallerne has joined the corporate team and is based in the group’s regional office in Thailand, focusing on the group’s Asian resorts sales strategy.

Establishing his career in sales in Paris within agencies such as Voyageurs Du Monde, Mr Gallerne then moved to Thailand. He has previously held Director of Sales & Marketing roles with various city and resort properties within Anantara and Marriott hotel groups, noted a release announcing his latest appointment.

Before joining The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts, Mr Gallerne was with Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts, where he held the position of Regional Director, Sales & Marketing, overseeing and directing the regional sales and marketing efforts @thephuketnews

9

Ludovic Gallerne has been appointed to the newly created position of Regional Director of Sales, Asia.

Photo: Supplied for properties in Southeast Asia, Indian Ocean and Morocco.

“I look forward to having Ludovic lead our sales team with his strong knowledge and experience of the market, in this important period of our group’s growth,” said Scot Toon, the group’s Managing Director, Asia.

The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts’ current expansion will see four more hotels and resorts opening by 2020 in Lisbon, Rome and Niseko, adding to the group’s already comprehensive range of properties already in Nepal, Bali, Rome, Spain, Amsterdam and Phuket.

The Phuket News

AIRASIA WILL LAUNCH direct flights between Phuket and Phnom Penh, Cambodia, four times a week starting June 1.

Thai AirAsia CEO Santisuk Klongchaiya said the airline has devoted great importance to adding routes to its regional flight bases, looking to build a strong network of destinations that provide the opportunity to add even further routes, providing ever greater convenience to travellers who will no longer need to stop over in Bangkok, said a release on Monday (April 1) announcing the new flights.

“Phuket is a very important strategic flight base for AirAsia that has grown steadily along

with the addition of direct flights to CLMV (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam) cities such as Siem Reap.

“With the positive response we have received from international travellers, we decided to add Phuket-Phnom Penh, connecting the resort town to Cambodia’s capital. The route should well serve tourists as well as members of the business community of both countries,” Mr Santisuk added.

The flights will operate on Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday.

Thai AirAsia operates nine international routes out of Phuket to destinations including Hong Kong, Macau, Siem Reap, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

The Phuket News

10 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

Digital agility key to growth Asean Digital Minister’s Retreat highlights regional networking TECHNOLOGY Chutharat Plerin thai@classactmedia.co.th

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host of ministers and senior information and communications (ICT) officials attending the Asean Digital Ministers’ Retreat at the Banyan Tree Phuket resort at Laguna Phuket last Friday (Mar 29) were told that the Asean Digital Agility concept was vital for the development of the digital economy in the immediate future.

Leading the retreat was the Thai and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Dr Pichet Durongkaveroj.

Joining the event was Asean Secretary-General Dato Lim Jock Hoi. “This meeting will be an important stage that the Ministry of Digital Economy will show the potential of Thailand in the digital field in the Asean region, ready to drive the Asean region into a fully digital economy which if this adjustment occurs soon, it would have a positive effect on the economy of the entire region, especially Thailand, to benefit directly and ready to create prosperity for the people in a sustainable way,” Dr Pichet said.

The meeting was held to unveil five key concepts that are to push the Asean region into the digital economy era, he noted.

The meeting also aimed to promote and support the role of Thailand in the Asean region to assure that Thailand is ready

Thai Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Dr Pichet Durongkaveroj. Photo: Ministry of Digital Economy and Society to host the Ministerial Meeting and elevate its role to become a leader in information and communication technology in Asean, Dr Pichet noted.

“This includes to allow the management of meetings to be effective at international standard, to proceed well and smoothly, and in respect of and in accordance with international relations practices and with the guidelines and formalities of the Asean Meeting, as well as to impress the participants, show a good image of Thailand in hosting the conference.

“The purpose of this informal digital ministerial meeting of the Asean Digital Ministers’ Retreat also includes promoting and supporting the tourism and economy of Thailand as a

whole,” he added.

Thailand assumed the Asean Chairmanship for 2019 late last year after an official handover from Singapore, which served as the seat of Asean affairs for 2018.

The move to hold Asean meetings in Thailand this year follows the international debacle of 10 years ago, when red-shirt protesters stormed the Asean convention at the Royal Cliff Beach hotel in Pattaya amid the political unrest at the time, forcing the international delegates to flee by being airlifted by helicopter to safety to a nearby military airbase. No delegates were hurt in the evacuation.

Meanwhile, Dr Pichet noted that the retreat aimed to be a forum for Asean digital devel-

opment with input from the ministers of digital economy of all 10 Asean member states, “and is an important stage of Thailand to continue its position in the role of the Asean Chair in 2019, as well as a space to show the readiness to move towards the digital leader in the Asean region, for pushing the Asean region into full digital economy under the Asean Digital Agility 2019,” he said.

Dr Pichet defined five key concepts of the Asean Digital Agility Concept 2019 as: • Cybersecurity, to enhance the readiness and capacity to handle cyber threats such as Cyber War Game activities, cyber personnel training.

• Connectivity and Mobility, focusing on data network

linkage and the movement of people in the Asean region, such as submarine cable linking, the preparation of Asean biometric visas, international call rates (IMR Single Tariff).

• Smart City, to continue the implementation of intelligent city development in the Asean region, including Asean intelligent city meetings, the creation of intelligent city information platforms • Digital Economy, to enhance the availability of digital ecosystems to attract investment in Asean, including digital information governance, privacy protection, online trade, Asean Single Window, among other aspects.

• Manpower and Society Development, to develop the

knowledge and abilities of people in the Asean region through digital activities such as Asean Startup, Hackathon, Social Media Guidelines Review, eSport, and so on.

“This stage will be a major turning point for digital leadership roles in the Asean region, to develop in various fields that it will demonstrate the potential and readiness which Thailand has. These things will help to build confidence among Asean members that Thailand has both potential and readiness to become Asean Chair, best of all,” Dr Pichet concluded.

Asean Secretary-General Dato Lim Jock Hoi, who formerly severed as the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Brunei, noted that in his opinion the meeting was a success as the Asean members agreed to be more proactive and work together to address the issue of cybersecurity, especially in the realm of the digital economy.

“It is important that we should work together to integrate Asean economy to make it competitive. We estimate the digital economy will increase the GDP of Asean by 1 trillion (US dollars) by 2025, and we are working very hard for it,” he said.

He also pointed out that the Asean Economic Community (AEC) had been going on very well since it was established in 2015.

“The next step of AEC is to make it more competitive.

We are looking at issues such as IP (intellectual property), and to make sure that SMEs are not left behind,” Mr Lim said.

TAT warns tour operators notice needed to enter Similan Islands TOURISM THE TOURISM AUTHORITY of Thailand (TAT) has issued an announcement calling for all tour operators to give advance notice before bringing tourists on boats into the Mu Ko Similan National Park.

“The entry fee to Mu Ko Similan National Park can be paid at either of four locations, one of which is the Park’s Office on the mainland in the village of Thap Lamu. The other three are in the island archipelago itself – Park Ranger Unit 1 Ko Mieng, Park Ranger Unit 2 Ko Similan and Park Ranger Unit 3 Ko Tachai,” said the TAT in its announcement.

“The entry fee to Mu Ko Simi-

lan National Park is 500 Baht for adults and 300 Baht for children,” the TAT noted.

However, according to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), which operates all national parks in the country, the entry fee for Thai nationals to enter the Mu Ko Similan National Park remains at B100 for adults and B50 for children.

“Also, in line with the recent cap put on visitor numbers to the ark, the tour operator is required to make a one-day advance notice to the park before entering during the period of March 21 to May 15, 2019,” the TAT noted.

“The cap is set at not more than 1,625 visitors per day for excursions on islands from Ko Si to Ko Paet,

and not more than 1,700 visitors per day for excursions from Ko Paet to Ko Si. “For diving, the cap is no more than 525 visitors per day,” the TAT said.

“Please note that as of June 2018, it is not possible to stay overnight in the Similan Islands,” the TAT added.

“Unapproved boats are not permitted to enter the Mu Ko Similan National Park,” the TAT warned.

Meanwhile, an order issued

by DNP Director General Thanya Netithammakun late last year will see all boats carrying 100 or more passengers banned from entering the park from June 1.

The order, issued on Dec 20, stipulated that boats up to 25 passengers will be charged B500 per

The popular tourist beach at Ko Paet in the Mu Ko Similan National Park. Photo: TAT day to enter the park.

Boats carrying 26-50 passengers will be charged B1,000 per day, while boats carrying 51-100 passengers will be charged B2,000 per day.

The order was issued to “help people in the tourism business”,

DNP Director Thanya said in the notice.

However, the order was initially to come into effect on Jan 1 this year, but has now been postponed to come into effect on June 1 this year.

The Phuket News thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

Samavati, Buddhism’s forgotten Queen

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

13

Ideas for pet playdates indoors

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EVERY DROP COUNTS Celebrating Songkran sustainably

Celebrating river-style. These revellers have the right idea.

Amy Bryant editor1@classactmedia.co.th

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ongkran in a water crisis.

In modern times, that’s like Christmas when you’ve just found out Santa isn’t real. It’s St Patrick’s Day when the Guinness storehouse has run dry.

Of course, water doesn’t go to the heart of Thai New Year and the Irish weren’t swigging pints when their patron saint died in 461 AD; that’s just how celebrations have evolved and traditions shifted.

The reality is that Songkran (celebrated April 13-15) now involves launching water at each other like it’s going out of fashion. Well, in a way, it is. Phuket authorities have swung pendulously between implementing area-wide water restrictions and towing the “Drought?

What drought? Nothing to see here!” line. Meanwhile reservoirs diminish and residential wells run dry. Looks like it’s up to us, then.

With this in mind, UWC Thailand, The Phuket News and Thanyapura Health & Sport Resort held a workshop on Mar 28 to discuss how Phuket can celebrate Songkran 2019 sustainably and find a balance between honouring Thai traditions and respecting the limitations of the island’s resources.

The event was attended by representatives from the Phuket Hotels Association, HeadStart International School, Phuket Has Been Good to Us Foundation, independent environmental groups and Phuket Provincial Waterworks Authority as well as UWC students, parents and the head of Nanai village.

The room buzzed with ideas from Thai and foreign stakeholders alike.

Here’s their top five voted suggestions. @thephuketnews

Celebrate where the water already is Make use of the plentiful sources of non-potable water the island holds and is surrounded by. Head to a beach, wade into the big blue and fill your water gun ready for a splash on the sand.

Pool parties are another option, and a slightly more glamorous one if American films are anything to go by.

Celebrate in the traditional way with palm watering Traditionally, Songkran celebrations require very little water, whether it’s poured over Buddha statues or over the palms of elders. Head to a temple, pour water on the monks’ hands and receive blessings from them. Songkran is first and foremost a Buddhist festival, and connecting with that can be rewarding, Buddhist or not.

UWC Thailand have decided to host palm watering and blessings in assemblies in place of water throwing this year. Despite running on wells, not on the ever-emptying municipal reservoirs, they are leading by example, recognising that behaviours translate beyond the school campus.

Hold Songkran celebrations away from the streets There’s much to be said for having a few days off work, and you’ll be forgiven for not wanting to spend it wet through and smeared in white chalk and coloured powder. Relax at home with loved ones, safe from the carnage and chaos.

With the ‘Seven Dangerous Days’ an unfortunate consequence of the festival, staying off the streets isn’t such a bad idea. Celebrate in the garden.

Splash your family and friends whilst feeding the grass too. Win-win.

Heads together for a sustainable Songkran.

Promote water conservation via radio, newspaper, social media and in our neighbourhoods and communities The BBC recently reported on ‘eco-anxiety’, the feeling of being overwhelmed by the existential challenge of climate change. They suggest turning that fear into action by taking your own affirmative steps – e.g. timing your showers, only washing clothes in full loads, catching rainwater for plants, regularly checking pipes for leaks – and discussing the environment with those around you. So share this article, suggest some of the tips to friends and start discourse.

Inform tourists about the water crisis and encourage them to conserve water in Phuket We might look to the Tourism Authority of Thailand first for this one, but perhaps we have a role to play too.

If you’re hosting visiting family and friends, encourage them to use water as they would if their own hometowns were facing a water crisis, especially those visiting for Songkran.

Interestingly, water consumption during Songkran is offset by the fact that factories are closed and people return home. Scaling down the festival alone might not lead to any significant change in reservoir water levels, but it sets a precedent and is an opportunity for education.

Conserving water extends beyond Songkran. It’s important before and it will continue to be so long after.

A final word from the Water Production Supervisor, Mr Uthai Sae-Jiw “I’m really happy that so many people came to the workshop and that so many people, both Thai and foreign, care.

“I would like to say “Don’t panic.”

We’re trying to find a solution. We’re buying water from the private sector to ensure there’s enough to supply to the community. We don’t want to do this long-term as the control and prices then lie with the private sector.

“The weather forecasts that the rainy season starts at the end of May, so we need everyone’s understanding and cooperation to help save water.”

12 DINING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Lightly tempura-battered soft-shell crab in chili and lime dressing.

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

Twice-cooked crispy pork belly.

Serenity at SALA Phuket THE CULINARY DETECTIVE

Chris Watson chriswatsonth@gmail.com

I

count myself, like many of you reading this article, as extremely fortunate and perhaps slightly privileged to be able to say I am a resident of Phuket. Blessed with a climate which is never really too hot (with the exception of our current year), a winter akin to a British summer (when somewhat amusingly many Phuketians reach for

their woollen jumpers) and a general avoidance of the tropical storms which batter other Asian countries, this is, for me, a paradise.

One of my many reasons for choosing this as home was undoubtedly the array of dining options, from deeply delicious and value-for-money street food to the ever-increasing number of upscale restaurants offering high-level products imaginatively combined to provide world-class dining.

There is also a plethora of uber-luxe resorts located, inevitably, by the sea, some cliffside, others beachside, but all offering spectacular vistas. Without

exception, they all provide a wonderful dining experience and service which can now rival that of anywhere in the world.

In Phuket, I believe we are at a tipping point. With new six-star hotels entering the market, innovative concepts in dining and the arrival of the Michelin Guide, many are competing for the holy grail of a Michelin star. Phuket has truly become a gastronomic location.

I thought I knew most fine establishments that fit into the above category as I regularly cross the North/South divide and am frequently a victim of the no-end-in-sight traffic jams at Chalong Circle. But, perhaps not.

When invited to visit SALA Phuket, I must sheepishly admit that I did have to check it out on the net to ascertain the journey time. Discovering its location in Mai Khao, I steeled myself for the congestion and set off.

SALA is located at the end of a rather charming dimly-lit lane. Turning into the entrance, signage discreet, one has the impression of arriving at a private residence, with little visible normal hotel indicators. The arrival is enhanced by the tranquil, almost zen-like pond and walkway I pass before I arrive at the brightly-illuminated reception counter where I am directed towards the beach and my venue for dinner.

As I meander towards the restaurant, the atmosphere created by the subdued pathway only heightens my anticipation. I am greeted by Basil, who is much younger, more debonair and clearly more professional than his Torquay namesake.

Rounding the corner, the setting is truly stunning. The restaurant is colonially furnished and boasts spectacular seashore views. There are even a couple of salas on the beach, perfect for that allimportant popping of the question.

The restaurant is on two levels, the upper largely devoted to those couples seeking a veritable intimate experience and offering yet even more panoramic vistas. I plum for the lower level and am introduced to Khun Suthisa, who informs me I can refer to her as Khun Nan. The menus are truly tempting. With choices of Thai set menus, an extensive Thai and Western à la carte and intimate dining options for two, I am spoilt for choice.

The Chef, Tony, a fellow Brit, has worked in Thailand for a number of years and encouraged me to experience his signature dishes of Poo Nim Tod Yum Mamuang (soft-shell crab), twice-cooked crispy pork belly and harissa-spiced

The beach salas are made for special occasions. lamb cutlets – it would be churlish not to.

Whilst Khun Nan takes care of me with a creamy lobster bisque and a couple of crunchy crab cakes, Tony prepares his specialties. The lightly tempura-battered soft-shell crab is deliciously crisp and moist and comes with a chili and lime dressing, the perfect foil to accentuate the sweetness of the crab meat.

This is followed by the pork belly.

Normally a very English dish, this is served with a nod to Asia, accompanied with wok-fried morning glory and roasted pumpkin purée, and surrounded by a fragrant thyme gravy. This is topped off with a tasty apple and ginger marmalade that perfectly complements the rich pork.

Whilst almost full, I manage to find room for the lamb cutlets, delicately spiced with harissa, chargrilled on the outside but remaining tender and pink inside and served with an unusual orange and pistachio couscous and a chermoula dressing of herbs and garlic.

Thank you, Chef Tony!

Khun Nan insists that I try a dessert before I leave and I choose the decadent chocolate molten lava cake with vanilla bean ice cream on the side and a ribbon of slightly bitter raspberry coulis that perfectly cuts through the richness of the fondant. Thank you, Khun Nan! I began this article by commenting on the multitude of super deluxe hotels and cosmopolitan restaurants available in Phuket, but for that truly special celebration, SALA Phuket has it all.

Be it a special anniversary, a milestone birthday, that evening for asking “Will you…?”, call Basil, book a beach villa and head to SALA Phuket for the night. www.salahospitality.com/phuket/ info@salaphuket.com / +66-76-338-888 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. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CULTURE 13

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

Trailblazers: Queen Samavati

The forgotten women living in the time of Buddha: Part 1 ALL ABOUT BUDDHISM Jason A. Jellison mitnoy@live.com

M

argaret Thatcher once said, “If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.” Well, at least in regards to the rise of ancient Buddhism, truer words could not have been spoken.

Welcome to Trailblazers, a special four-part series brought to you by All About Buddhism. Trailblazers revisits the forgotten contributions of a number of early Buddhist women who were crucial to the religion’s rise.

However, the author must share a word of caution before we begin our journey. These women lived over 2,500 years ago. Society’s views on sexuality, slavery, race, marriage and gender were very different than our views are today. Also, there are sometimes slight differences in the competing Buddhist canons that are preserved throughout Asia, but the central story is generally consistent.

That all said, we begin our journey in Kausambi, the capital city of the Vatsa Kingdom. This was one of the 16 great kingdoms of the Buddhist Era and it would serve as part of the brain trust of a fledgling new world religion.

We know a fair amount about what life was like in this kingdom thanks to its ruins. We know that Kausambi had running water drains, for example, because the remains are still there. It was a centre of trade and large crowds were likely managed by kettledrums.

Although Kausambi would stand about a century longer than Rome, it was not always a great capital and it was not originally Buddhist. In its earlier days, it was host to a slew of varying factions and faiths. The religion of Jainism was growing, and who knows what kind of kingdom might have been on the cards, but one pair of star-crossed lovers would soon change everything. According to Buddhist sources, the story goes like this...

A beautiful young girl named Samavati was born into a normal family and seemed to be having an otherwise all too mundane childhood. But then a terrible plague broke out and her otherwise happy family fled to Kausambi.

Taking shelter at His Majesty’s house of rest, an observant state official noticed that Samavati was taking less food than usual. First she took three servings of food. Then the next day only two. Then only one.

Upon doing some amateur detective work, he tragically discovered that the child had originally taken one serving of food for each of her family members.

But then a parent succumbed to the plague, and then...

Heartbroken by her sad story, he adopted the destitute orphan. The state official happened to be the King’s personal Minister of Finance, and the girl grew up to be a profoundly beautiful young woman.

Years later, King Udena spotted @thephuketnews

Samavati from his balcony and Cupid’s arrow hit its mark. However, her adoptive father could not bear to part with her so, to keep the peace, Samavati agreed to become the third consort of this handsome King; contingent, that was, on him accepting her retinue of 500 ladies into his palace.

Queen Samavati was happy with her life at the Royal Court, but great discoveries were in store. One day, she heard her servant telling her the most amazing things and a pleasant confession led to Buddha.

The Buddhist canon records that the women could not leave the palace, so the kingdom’s Buddhist conversion hinged on what happened next. First, the Queen’s female servant memorised Buddha’s teachings verbatim and taught the ladies-in-waiting. Then, 500 Buddhist monks came to the palace every day to teach. Eventually, the Queen became instrumental in assisting the Order of Buddhist Nuns, and palace windows were installed so the women could communicate with the monks. (A novel idea at the time.)

Alas, not everyone was so thrilled with this giddy turn of events. By chance, the King’s second wife just so happened to have one seriously bad relationship with Buddha and her name was Magandiya. You see, Magandiya had offered to marry Buddha well before the king ever met Samavati.

However, Buddha turned the proposal down because an Awakened One does not engage in marriage or sex.

Yet, no matter what anybody said, Magandiya refused to listen. She simply hated Buddha. And so treachery sprang afoot.

Magandiya tried to trademark Samavati and her ladies-at-court as treasonous jezebels. She bribed court pages and staged dirty tricks. She even had street bums and druggies follow Buddha around, branding Him a “denizen of hell” within plain view of the King.

Finally, Magandiya artfully framed Samavati in a remarkably believable attempt on King Udena’s life.

The Samyutta Nikaya records that King Udena flew into an uncontrolled rage and was going to sentence Samavati with his bow and arrow, but then something magical happened.

The arrow made a harmless U-turn, practically as though Samavati was surrounded by angels. Legend has it that this is when King Udena completed his unflinching conversion to Buddhism.

Magandiya’s treachery knew no ends. Nothing would stand in the way of her target, not even 500 innocent lives. Under the cover of night, Magandiya secretly arranged for her relatives to burn the entire women’s Royal Palace to the ground, and this time Magandiya finally hit her bullseye.

However, when Magandiya assassinated Queen Samavati, she yet again achieved nothing but the exact opposite of what she wanted. Instead of securing a confused and grieving King, she secured a Stone Age-style death sentence for both her and her family. Instead of stopping Buddhism’s

Image: dhammajak.net rise in Kausambi, the women’s holocaust sparked a ring of spiritual fire that would serve not to destroy Buddhism, but to create Buddhism.

Queen Samavati and the royal women of Kausambi were crucial to Buddhism because they ultimately left behind the most utilitarian and tactile first-person notations of Buddha’s words that have survived into modern times. These notations are still used for teaching today and are available in English.

Moreover, Kausambi was a centre of trade. Kausambi stood as an epicentre of Buddhist thought for several generations to come, and had this not all occurred, then our understanding of Buddhism would have been greatly impaired.

The Vatsa Kingdom would eventually fall to the Avanti Kingdom. In time, the Avanti Kingdom would be obliterated by the White Huns of Central Asia.

Today, ruins are all that stands of what was once the mighty capital of Kausambi. But the contributions of the royal women of Queen Samavati’s retinue still touch every one of us in the modern Buddhist world today.

Editor’s Note: Queen Samavati’s personal attendant was named Khujjuttara.

Her notes still exist in The Itivuttaka.

Historical text marking the Queen’s assassination can be found in King Udena’s suttra in Chapter 7 of the Udana. Buddha’s rejection of Magandiya’s marriage proposal and conversation can still be found in the 835th verse of the Sutta Nipata.

The historic records of Magandiya’s conviction and death penalty can be found in Vol. #28 of The Harvard Oriental Series – The Dhammapada Commentary: Translated by E.W. Burlingame.

C. 1921.

14 PETS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

Ruff weather out?

Which hand? in action. Photo: Jennifer Regnier / Unsplash

Don’t stop retrievin’. Photo: nicobird / Pixabay

Pet entertainment for those lazy days indoors UNLEASHED Russell D Russell info@k9pointacademy.com

O

ne of the key problems owners often face is finding time to provide ample exercise for their dogs. Getting our dogs out and about, either for a walk around the block or a run up and down the beach, is always terrific fun and super important for their emotional well-being too. However, now and again, certain factors can get in the way of this

important time: monsoon rain; being too busy with work; travelling; the excessive heat at this time of year; or the chaos of Songkran. There are times when you just aren’t going to make it out. Meanwhile, Fido is ramped up, full of energy and ready to go. Here’s some tips for indoor entertainment that can help not only burn some energy, but engage our dogs mentally too.

Which hand?

This is a good starting platform to get our dogs thinking about using their noses. Firstly, get your dog to sit down in front of you and show them a treat.

Then put your hands behind your back and put the treat in one of your hands.

Then return both fists in front of their nose and let them sniff out the treat. If your Fido has this nailed really quickly, start using some plastic cups and hide a treat under one of those.

Search and sniff This combines all the fun of a game with a bit of training too. A short search and sniff session can tire out even the most unruly of dogs. Place your dog in a sit stay whilst you hide small treats around the house. If your Fido won’t sit still, you can put them in another room quickly whilst you hide the treats, or have some one else hold them. Treats can go anywhere, but naturally they’re better hidden in places they can easily reach and won’t cause any damage to get to. Once the treats are dotted around the house, get Fido excited and tell them to go search and find some yummy treats.

Tug of war This is an old school classic and you can once again utilise this game for a spot of quick training with your dog.

You can use a classic rope knot toy, a soft squeaky toy or a ball on a rope – whatever your dog prefers to play with.

Engage in some tug and then get your dog to let go, helping to reinforce a valuable “drop it” command. You can also practise getting your dog to sit, and as soon as they do, re-start the tug of war game.

For an extra bit of fun, once your dog has dropped the toy, you can throw it across the room and encourage them to retrieve it and bring it back for more tug of war fun.

Puzzle toys These toys are great for those times when you need to engage your dog, but might not be able to spend the time yourself with them. Most puzzle toys combine treats into them, which is often the best motivator. They ignite natural foraging instincts too.

There are a range of toys available online from various companies, such as KONG, all of which encourage your dog to exercise their brain whilst they think about how to solve the puzzle and get the treat. And remember, mental stimulation is hugely beneficial to our dogs and also helps tire them out quickly.

Clean up If you have kids, then you know what it’s like to have toys absolutely everywhere. Dog owners are often no different. We buy endless toys for our Fido and they end up scattered all around the house. So, why not play a game with our dogs which ends up with them cleaning the house – win win!

You’ll first need to work with your dog so that they have a grasp of “pick up”, “retrieve” and “drop it” commands. This can take up some time on its own and helps to build a great relationship between you and your dog.

Once they have the concept, you can throw the toys around and get them to clean up.

If you would like some more information on canine training, or behavioural issues, then please 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 American Kennel Club (AKC) Evaluator. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

COMMUNITY 15

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

Ride 4 Kids Returns Charity riders jump back in the saddle for 2019

The Phuket News editor1@classactmedia.co.th

I

n the first year of Ride 4 Kids in 2017, the riders and supporters managed to raise B1.2 million for needy children in Phuket. Ride 4 Kids v2.0, 2018, topped that with B1.5 million raised. Preparations and training is now underway for Ride 4 Kids v3.0, 2019, to raise money for three different charities: The Good Shepherd; Phuket Has Been Good To Us; and Outrigger’s Share 4 Change Program.

On May 27, riders from around Phuket will jump in the saddle for 700 kilometres over six days, all in the name of charity. They will start in Phuket at Outrigger Laguna and will return six days later after cycling through beautiful Phang Nga, Krabi and Trang.

There will be varying levels of riders involved and the emphasis will be placed on fun and support. The only race here will be to see which rider can raise the most amount of money. As in previous years, riders are hoping to break the B1 million mark.

The title sponsor for the event is once again Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort, and returning as media

Riding into the sunset. sponsor is The Phuket News.

The entire Phuket community is behind the charity ride with fundraising events held across island, including a charity quiz at Underwood’s Art Factory on Mar 1 and a touch football tournament at Alan Cook Cricket Ground on Mar 2, with all proceeds going to Ride 4 Kids.

Kajonkiet International School, Phuket and British International School, Phuket – BISP and their school networks are also behind the ride with a number of activities being hosted by

Good Shepherd calls for supplies for families at risk in Phuket The Phuket News editor1@classactmedia.co.th

T

he ‘Home for Hope’ mobile bus goes into migrant work camps within the Cherng Talay and Bang Tao areas once a month, providing Myanmar migrant workers and their families, as well as poor Thai families, with essentials to improve their health and well-being. A total of 200 families are being supported by the bus.

The target audience for the mobile unit is woman and children at risk of human trafficking, being abused and exploited and who live in a risky community areas in Phuket.

The goal is to educate the women in social and life skills, health, self-care and awareness of human trafficking.

The director of this new project is Good Shepherd’s Sister Dr Euphrasia Mesomklin and the manager is Khun Ratchaneekorn (Kad) who has worked for Home for Hope and the anti-human trafficking project in Patong.

The Good Shepherd Foundation desperately needs the following necessities for babies, children and young women: canned goods; dry goods; eggs; noodles; rice; cooking oil; snacks; water; juices; milk; underwear; clothing (second hand); books; blankets; first aid kits; feminine hygiene products; nappies; baby, toddler and young childrens’ toys; playdough; dolls; sports equipment; colouring pencils and paper; mosquito nets; towels, linen, pillows and mats; and personal care items (shampoo, @thephuketnews

All aboard the Home for Hope bus. soap, brushes, toothpaste, toothbrushes, hairbrushes etc).

Donations can be dropped off at Home for Hope (located in Topland near the bypass road in Phuket Town) or at the Thrift & Crafts Shop at Wana Park, 177 Moo 4, Srisoonthorn Rd, Thalang (open 10am-2pm on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday).

Monetary donations can also be made using the following details: Account name: Sister Daruna Mesomklin for the good Shepherd Sisters Account number: 486-2-13814-2 Swift code: KASITHBK The bus also requires a trailer to carry all donated goods and supplies.

Khun Kad, can be contacted at radchaneekon_kad@hotmail.com A key volunteer, Debra Mierczak, can be contacted at dmierczak@hotmail.com

the schools, including bake sales and rideathons. A number of parents and teachers from both school communities are supporting the six-day adventure.

A welcome home party for the riders and crew and their friends, families and supporters, with raffles and silent auctions, has been arranged at Outrigger’s Metzo’s Bar and Bistro.

“As the title sponsor for the event, hosting the welcome home party is our pleasure. We are excited once again to be part of the event,” said General Manager, Tony Pedroni, who has previ-

ously completed the six-day ride with his wife Annie Pedroni.

Ride 4 Kids v3.0 will take place between May 27 and June 1. Join the coming home party at Metzos on June 1 and meet the team.

Tickets are available for B2,500. Email organiser and Live 89.5 FM host Donna Toon at lunch@classactmedia.co.th To donate, or for more information, visit www.ride4kids.co

16 COMMUNITY

Stirrings of Change

The local force behind the transformation on Koh Siray

K

Dr Peter W Harris

oh Siray is almost hidden from view from nearby Phuket Town. You drive over the causeway, briefly glancing down at the fishing boats on the klong, likely without noticing the fish exchanges taking place underneath.

You might stop to purchase a banana to feed the klong’s resident monkeys or continue to check in to a world-class hotel with magnificent views over the bay or to the port to catch a ferry.

Koh Siray is well worth a visit.

Clambering to the top of the hill, on which sits Wat Koh Siray and its gold Buddha, gives you a magnificent view over a lesser-seen part of the island.

However, it’s important to remember that Koh Siray houses 10,000 people, including a village of 1,000 sea gypsies, Myanmar fishing workers and disadvantaged families.

Much of the village has inadequate wastewater and sanitation provisions, making some areas extremely toxic and a health hazard to the community as well as contributing to the plastic and waste which enters the ocean.

There are some encouraging signs of change by the actions of local people and businesses, the interest of concerned community groups and the strong support of the Rassada Deputy Mayor Pawat Supasuwan.

In my last article – Trash Talk – I highlighted the many different groups actively contributing to the reduction of waste in Phuket. This week we celebrate

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

Koh Siray has organic gardens thanks to JB Organic Farm. the locals leading the way on Koh Siray.

Khun Yindee Nokpetch, who sells bananas from a stall by the klong, cleans up the adjacent road with her friends every day which is often strewn with rubbish brought in by the klong. A thankless job, but one that makes the entry to Koh Siray a more pleasant one.

Khun Nuanla-or Rungrotsathonkit, the Director of Koh Siray junior school, and her staff have established a sustainable garden, limited waste separation and introduced a programme of health and hygiene intervention (‘wash your hands, clean your teeth’). The director and principals of local schools meet regularly to discuss these issues.

Khun Dont, the Village Chief and President of the Clean-up Committee, sets a fine example by cleaning houses and surrounding areas and encouraging locals to minimise waste.

Led by Dr Chaniteen Boonchai of the International College of Arts and Science, 70 students of the Prince of Songkla University recently undertook a review of the issues impacting on waste through a series of face-to-face interviews with members of the community.

The Asia Pacific Environmental Network (APEN), assisted by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Direct Aid Project is now giving assistance to the waste reduction programme on Koh Siray.

APEN, led by Khun Songkran Kongmuang (Jimmie), an enthusiastic young Thai, are working with the experienced Khun Thiti, the “Thai wisdom teacher in environmental management” and former general manager of the incinerator at Saphan Hin, to establish four sustainable centres within the Koh Siray community.

This builds on a project supported by the Lions Club of Patong Beach to improve sanitation for the 800 students of Koh Siray School and improve the water supply through the provision of 30 water filters donated by the Rotary Club of Patong Beach.

Training in construction, implementation and management of decomposition of waste bins has been undertaken by 30 representatives of the four centres. The compost bins have been introduced to the Sunshine Village and the sea gypsy village kindergarten.

The organic gardens on Koh Siray, donated by the JB Organic Farm owned

by Teerawut Sritulrak, are made up of individual rubber tyres stacked together, filled with soil and compost, into which various local vegetables will grow and be managed by individual members of the school community, with the aim of using this experience to establish an

Khun Yindee Nokpetch.

APEN’s Khun Jimmie. organic garden in their own gardens.

The Koh Siray centres are being established as waste utilisation centres to restore the natural ecosystem, introduce composting techniques, build organic gardens, improve water quality and educate children about the issues of waste and disease. It also encourages the local community to earn income through organic gardening and the creation of products made out of plastic and other waste.

Initial waste audits have been prepared and will provide information on the nature and amount of different forms of waste levels in the centre. From this benchmark, incentives for reduction to zero can be made.

Trash and waste throughout the community need to be seen as a health hazard for everybody, particularly the children. The role of the Rassada District and education centres groups is vital for change. Fortunately, there are signs of a genuine working together to tackle the high level of waste.

APEN welcome anyone to join the Australian Navy at the Koh Siray half-day clean up and Aussie barbecue on April 29. For more information, contact Jimmie on songrant33@gmail.com or 0931687423.

Keep an eye on the coming issues of The Phuket News as it follows APEN and the Koh Siray journey. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

EVENTS 17

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

All white on the night

Don’t miss Rotary’s Elegant White Charity Gala on April 20 The Phuket News editor1@classactmedia.co.th

O

n Saturday, April 20 at Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort, the Rotary Club of Patong Beach promises a truly special evening at its 10th annual charity dinner, auction and danceathon, an elegant journey from sunset to late evening with live music and fresh delicacies paired with free-flowing libations.

Imagine a dream evening filled with flickering candlelight and the tropical scents of white flowers under a starlit sky reflecting on the white sand and glittering ocean.

Start the evening with a sparkling nectar to get you in the mood, ready to enjoy the incomparable Pjae Stanley, a music legend from the USA. The purity of her voice and intensity of her performance makes it feel as if she is singing to you personally. She has performed with Mary Wilson of The Supremes, opened for The Judds, among many other country stars, and co-wrote the title song of Willy Nelson’s album A Horse Called Music.

All this gastronomic and auditory elegance has a serious purpose: to raise as much money as possible for

@thephuketnews

The annual charity dinner, now in its 10th year, is an elegant affair.

Pjae Stanley will entertain guests with jazz and soul. the many Rotary Club of Patong Beach projects that help local disadvantaged children. The ticket price includes a donation of B3,174 (US$100) that will go directly towards supporting needy local children. Every baht of this annual fundraiser goes to helping children with no administrative or handling costs added. All funds are put towards donations, such as medicine, school supplies, motorcycle helmets and more.

The Rotary Club of Patong Beach’s Clean Water for Kids project has already placed water sanitisers/filters in over 400 locations, including most major government and public schools in Patong and several private orphanages.

And that is just the start. These filters and reverse osmosis systems provide

clean water to children who were drinking only contaminated water previously.

The Rotary Club of Patong Beach also teaches local children basic water safety through its Water Safety programme. To date, 121 children now know how to swim thanks to the programme which is expanding to teach 200 new students next year. Rotary impacts children through the Waste Water Cleanup project too.

A world-class evening of elegance would not succeed without the support of sponsors such as Outrigger Laguna, The Phuket News, Thanyapura Health & Sports Resort, Rosewood, Chem-Dry, DMG, Holiday Inn, MR TINT AND SUN, the Marriott and many others listed on the Rotary Club of Patong

Beach website (www.rotarypatong.org).

A full list of sponsors will be announced proudly on the night of the gala.

So put on your most elegant white attire and sway to the music while enjoying an elegant feast, comforted by the fact you are helping others.

Rotary’s Elegant White Charity Gala will be held at Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort on Saturday, April 20 at 6:30pm. To purchase tickets, contact 081892-9207 or visit www.thephuketnews. com/phuket-ticket-master.php Alternatively, for more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Rotary Club of Patong Beach event site at www.conferize.com\obopenfun\2019

18 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019 Jason, Rob and Adam.

Natta and Sam.

Burger fans, assemble!

Puii Wuii, Jason Wilder, Tim Arai and Dishy Dasha.

FIFTH PHUKET’S BEST BURGER EVENT THE MOST BURGERLICIOUS YET Over 1,500 people headed down to Boat Lagoon on Mar 30 for the Phuket’s Best Burger ‘Dare to Dream’ event. Now in its fifth year, the event has grown to become a highlight in the island calendar. Burger enthusiasts sampled sliders from resorts, restaurants and schools across Phuket, washed them down with craft beverages and danced to the Two Chefs Band. Congratulations to Prime Burger Phuket who won ‘Phuket's Best Burger’ and to Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort who won the event’s new award ‘Best Vegetarian/Vegan Burger.’ The Phuket News was a proud media sponsor.

The delegation gathered round.

DIPLOMATIC CORPS VISIT ROYAL PHUKET MARINA ON TWO-DAY TRIP A large delegation of ambassadors and envoys from Bangkok, representing nearly all of the countries with formal diplomatic relations with Thailand, visited Royal Phuket Marina on Monday (April 1). Welcomed by Royal Phuket Marina Chairman Gulu Lalvani, the delegates enjoyed lunch at the marina during their two-day visit to inspect a Royal Initiative Project in Phang Nga and Phuket last Sunday and Monday (Mar 30-Apr 1).

LIGHTS OUT AT JW MARRIOTT PHUKET RESORT & SPA FOR EARTH HOUR 2019 For the 10th year running, JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa participated in the Earth Hour global initiative by switching off all non-essential lighting throughout the resort on Mar 31 between 8.30 and 9.30pm. The Corporate Social Responsibility Team invited guests to actively participate in this conservation effort by turning off the lights in their rooms, having a candelit dinner at the Andaman Grill restaurant and sampling the resort and spa's special sustainable beverages.

Let there be light.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ISLAND SCENE 19

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

Alain Faudot, President of French Association in Phuket, with friends.

Claude de Crissey, French Honorary Consul, with guests.

Le filles et garçons turned out in force.

Staff looking très bon in their themed attire.

KATA ROCKS’ PARISIAN NIGHT BRINGS FRENCH JOIE DE VIVRE TO PHUKET Kata Rocks’ Collective Series 14 returned on Mar 30 with another classy, themed event that showed why it’s Phuket’s most innovative and fun pool party. Guests enjoyed canapés and two Parisian-style beverages, created specifically for the event by Kata Rocks’ team of mixologists, while DJ Vadim and resident DJ Wii played French house classics late into the night.

AMARI PHUKET ORGANISES ANNUAL FIRST AID AND CPR TRAINING Pierre-Andre Pelletier, Regional Vice-President, Operations – Southern Thailand, Vietnam and the Maldives (middle), gave a speech to thank the nurses’ team from Siriroj International Hospital, led by Poonsup Toogood, Nurse Educator (second from right), for providing a fantastic training workshop on first aid and CPR for Amari Phuket team members. The training, held last month, focused on refreshing the skills of currently certified first aiders and teaching new team members.

Lifesavers.

HILTON PHUKET CONTINUES TO SPONSOR ENGLISH LESSONS FOR STUDENTS IN KAMALA Last month, Hilton Phuket General Manager Markus Kosch, together with the management team of the hotel, donated B15,000 to fund English lessons for students in Kamala.

The hotel has been supporting Phuket Has Been Good to Us Foundation since 2018. The funds were raised by the in-house flea market organised by hotel team members. Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa is grateful to have the opportunity to support students to give them a brighter future.

Good deeds for bright futures.

@thephuketnews

20 EVENTS

FRI

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

5 APR

Mussels night @ Shakers

and Cosmo. Sunday Brunch @ Cosmo - 12.30 pm to 3.00 pm. Happy Time @ Rock Salt - Monday, Tuesday, Saturday 5.00 pm to 8.00 pm. For further information and reservation, please contact “Reservations”at Tel: +66 76 380 200. www. thenaiharn.com, 23/3 Moo 1, Vises Road, Rawai, Muang District, Phuket, 83130.

SUN

7 APR

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 076344-914.

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

and sauces, bread, buns and garlic bread. Reservation recommended. B395 P/P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

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.

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

Grow Boating Phuket Networking Evening

The Great Nai Harn Phuket Sunday Brunch Every Sunday from 12:30 - 15:00 hrs Guests can savor delectable creations prepared by culinary maestro, Executive Chef Mark Jones, While enjoying spectacular views over Nai Harn Bay and listening to the sounds of Resident DJ Sun. THB 4,600 net per adult (With free- flow premium beverage handpicked by James Suckling) THB 2,950 net per adult (food only) THB 1,300 net per child aged from 6 to 18 years. For more information and bookings, please call +66 76 380 200 or fbreservation@thenaiharn.com

The Grow Boating Networking Evening for April 2019 will be held at The Lagoon Saloon, at The Phuket Boat Lagoon Marina from 5pm onward. Please contact us if you would like to be our drinks sponsors. Once again Lagoon Saloon will fire up the BBQ serving their famous Friday night burger free to all attendees and there will be special prices on your favourite local drinks. Come and join in the fun, everyone is welcome.

There is no entry fee, just drop your business card or register at the bar. To join our mailing list please send an email to growboatingphuket@gmail.com. Grow Boating is kindly supported by our media partner The Phuket News, Live 89.5 radio and Phuket News TV. The Grow Boating Networking Evening is proud to support the Thai Yachting Business Association.

Find us on thaiyachtingbusinessassociation.com

SAT

6 APR

Simmer & Spice Room Service presents Rescue at Baba Beach Club Phuket April 7th, we welcome Rescue who will bring his signature house sounds to Baba Beach Club Phuket. Escape to our Music Lovers’ oasis on Natai beach for an elevated weekend experience. For more information & bookings, contact us: 076 429 388.

076 338 888.

All you can eat BBQ Ribs night 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.

DANA ALEXANDER IN PHUKET Do not miss DANA ALEXANDER (CAN), RO CAMPBELL (AUS), and SHAYNE HUNTER (AUS) on stage this April at Marriott, Merlin Beach. Early bird tickets are on sale now from 350 THB or 600 THB at the door. Get your tickets today on TicketFlap: www.ticketflap.com/phuketcomedy-danaalexander Magic Rock, Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, Phuket.

South African singer and songwriter Eric Canham will be entertaining you 23rd March until 21st April at Rock Salt

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.

ACST Phuket Cricket Week 2019 at the Alan Cooke Ground, Thalang, Phuket. Featuring the 16th Phuket International Cricket Sixes from Wednesday 10th to Sunday 14th and the 8th Thailand International Cricket 7’s from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st April. Admission is free and refreshments are available. Come and enjoy Fun in the Sun and make Friendships Through Cricket.

FRI

12 APR

8 APR

Sunday Roast All Day, All Night Mr. Eric Canham

Sala Wednesday nights: Ribs, beats, brews

ACST Phuket Cricket Week 2019

MON 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

WED

10 APR

The Beatles Experience Beatles Mania is Back! Don’t miss out as our Two Chefs House Band play all the classic hits of The Beatles on April 7, 2019 at Two Chefs Kata Center! Sing to your heart’s content and jam all night long! Hungry? Try out our All You Can Eat Traditional Sunday Roast for just THB445! Message us NOW to book your table! Live music starts from 8:30pm and goes late Reservations are highly recommended. You can book on our website at WWW.TWOCHEFS.COM or find us on Facebook at WWW.FACEBOOK/TWOCHEFSTHAILAND You may also call us directly at Two Chefs Kata Center 076-330-065, COME FOR THE FOOD STAY FOR THE FUN!

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

Curry buffet, Great variety, Vibrant flavours.

Every Monday from 18.30 - 21.30. Reservations, SALA Phuket, events@salaphuket.com, 076 338 888.

Songkarn Festival 2019 All you can eat BBQ night 6pm – 11pm: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns and Squid, Salad buffet, Choice of potatoes

3 days of dream experiences. Friday brunch THB 990++ per person, Saturday brunch only THB 990++per person and Sunday brunch THB 18,90++ per person. Brunch: 12-4pm and pool party all day long. Dream Beach Club, reservations@dreambeachclub.com, 098 048 3500.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

EVENTS 21

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

FRI

12 APR

FRI

19 APR

Be the first to try! THB 1,900 net per set per couple. For Bookings email fb-phuket@banyantree.com or Call 076-372400.

THE PROGRESSIVE SUNDAY EASTER BRUNCH

Phuket Bike Week 2019 Phuket Bike Week 2019 “World Ride Together”, the Asian biggest motorcycle event, will celebrate the 25th anniversary on 12-20 April 2019. This event will be the large gathering of motorcyclists, expecting to draw over 5,000 motorcycles, 50,000 visitors from more than 30 countries to Phuket. The excitement will take place in Patong beach on 12 - 14 April 2019 and in Phuket Town (Phuket Boat Lagoon) on 19 - 20 April 2019.

SAT

A TEA-INSPIRED GOURMET DINNER FRIDAY 19TH & SATURDAY 20TH APRIL 2019 | Tre | 6.30 – 10.30pm. The ultimate break for every gourmands, Dilmah Tea Chef Ambassador presents a 5 course innovative teainfused in-one-of a kind dinner, reveals his audacious and evocative talents to diners at Banyan Tree Phuket. Food and Tea Pairing 3,000 THB net per guest. For Bookings email fbphuket@banyantree.com or Call 076-372400.

13 MAR

SUNDAY 21ST APRIL 2019 | The Watercourt | Noon – 3.30 pm. “Michelin-Star Easter Brunch” Chef Dan Bark from “Upstairs” Bangkok will share his unique intriguing culinary skills in our Banyan Tree Phuket’s signature and famous Brunch Chef Dan Bark, formerly Sous Chef of the Three Star-Michelin restaurant Grace in Chicago. Food only | THB 3,500 net per guest. Food with Free Flow beverages THB 4,500 net per guest. Food with ½ bottle of beverage THB 5,500 net per person. For Bookings email fb-phuket@banyantree.com or Call 076-372400.

MON

To celebrate the Thai New Year festivities, Saffron is inviting you and your family to embrace the Thai touches and discover the delicate flavors of a handcrafted magnificent Thai buffet.

Experience the special entertainment from ‘Banyan Tree Got Talent’ artists during dinner. THB 3,300 net per guest . For Bookings email fb-phuket@banyantree.com or Call 076372400.

Stargazer - 5th Annual Phuket Talent Contest This year, first place will receive 35,000 baht and a Stargazer trophy, second place will get 20,000 baht, and third place gets 10,000 baht. This is a great opportunity to express yourself and maybe find an application for your talent, as well as get to know other participant s and share their experiences. CC’s Hideaway, CC’s Hideaway, Kata Beach, Phuket, stargazer@ cchideaway.com, 076 333 222.

22 APR Blue Horizon WCGC Thailand 2019 The Blue Horizon World Corporate Golf Challenge continues in 2019 with the top 10% of teams (2 people per team) from each qualifier gaining entry to the Thailand Final on the 27th of April 2019 at Laguna Golf Club Phuket. Prominent sponsors provide an all-expenses paid trip to the World Final at Oitavoss Dunes in Cascais, Portugal. For more details and to sign up contact events@foremanagement.com

3rd Anniversary Celebration CELEBRATE THAI NEW YEAR “SONGKRAN BUFFET”

SAT

27 APR

South-African singer/songwriter Eric Canham will perform that evening for you. Free entry, free flow selected beverages and complimentary canapes from 5.30 pm to 6.30 pm. The Nai Harn, Rock Salt, fbreservation@thenaiharn.com, 076 380 200.

SAT

20 APR

THE PROGRESSIVE DINING EXPERIENCE BY CHEF DAN BARK MONDAY 22ND APRIL 2019 | Tre | 6:30 – 10:30pm. The Progressive Dining Experience by Chef Dan Bark, features a 7-course tasting menu where each course focuses on delicate surprising flavours that will challenge the diner’s pallate in a unique way. Food only: THB 3,500 net per guest. Food with Beverages pairing: THB 4,500 net per guest. For Bookings email fb-phuket@banyantree.com or Call 076-372400.

THU

THU

13 JUN

25 APR Phuket Wellness Connection 2019 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.

Songkran Festival Dinner under the stars with traditional Thai musical entertainment. Starting at 6.30 pm. THB 1,200* per person. Reservation, Lagoon Law at Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa, hkthi.fb@hilton.com, 076 396 433-41.

THU

18 APR

Elegant White Charity Gala Elegant White Charity Gala 10,000 Baht per person. With a limit of 50 charitable souls. Any questions call 081 892 9207.

SUN

21 APR

ANZAC post Dawn Service Drinks Legends Sports Bar & Grill invites you to join them for post Dawn Service drinks from 10:30am. Free BBQ buffet and discounted prices all day. Legends Sports Bar & Grill - Soi Eden, Patong, across from IBIS Hotel.

EVERY DAY Prime at Rock Salt

HIGH TEA WORKSHOP THURSDAY 18TH APRIL 2019 | Wine Rack | 3 - 5pm One & Only high tea workshop on the island! Meet Chef Nick from Royalebrat with his innovative ideas and inspired high tea.

THB 1,200 net per guest. For Bookings email fb-phuket@ banyantree.com or Call 076-372400.

@thephuketnews

TEA-INSPIRED HIGH TEA THE LAUNCHING OF 2019 EDITION SUNDAY 21ST APRIL 2019 ~ Lobby Bar | 2 – 5pm Discover amazing flavours of a newly created “tea inspired high tea”.

ANZAC Day Members of The Public are welcome to lay a wreath A light breakfast will be served afterwards. Please register your attendance by email: RSVP.Phuket@dfat.gov.au Australian Consulate-General Phuket, Thailand, Phuket Yacht Club

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

22 TIME OUT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 1. How fast must the DeLorean time machine be travelling in order to go ‘Back to the Future’?

2. What did Dutchman Jacob Roggeveen discover in 1722?

3.Which country is the largest exporter of bananas?

4. What is a person from Monaco called?

5. The Israeli city of Tel Aviv was founded in which century?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

Easy

Across 1. Government mailer 5. “Stop right there!”

9. African capital 14. Game of Thrones character 15. It may be blue, brown or green 16. Anticipatory liquid 17. C.I.A. worry 18. Sask. neighbor 19. Lady Antebellum’s “I ___ You” 20. Course 23. Girl’s name 24. Longitude’s alternative, for short 25. Tiny winged annoyance 29. “The X-Files” extras 31. Loan interest (abbr) 34. Great Indian politician 35. Specialty 36. Nobelist Wiesel 37. Course 40. Ancient greetings 41. Sets (on) 42. Bob Marley music 43. Dict. listing 44. Neutralize 45. “For Your Eyes Only” singer 46. Spanish for bear

47. ___ au vin 48. Course 57. Broadcasting 58. Canter leisurely 59. Donald Duck or Bugs Bunny 60. Dress cut 61. To __ (without exception) 62. Set foot (on) 63. Aerosmith frontman 64. Hawaii’s state bird 65. Ballpark figures

13. African shrub 21. Full-length 22. Cloudless 25. Pizarro’s conquest 26. Anxious 27. Coat shine 28. Times 29. El ____ 30. Cat calls 31. High-class party invitees 32. Type of horse 33. One of King Lear’s daughters 35. Insatiable Down 36. Guesstimates at 1. Letters at Camp J.F.K. Lejeune 38.

Playground retort 2. “Git!” 3. Sometimes read 39. Baghdad resident 44. Certain shark 4. Trickle 45. ___ Epoch 5. Intimate 46. Suppose 6. Cosmetician 47. House shower Elizabeth 7. 1970 Queen song 48. Chesterfield or ulster 8. Sounds of 49. Kind of child disapproval 50. Daily delivery 9. TV detective __ 51. Flair Monk 52. Apple variety 10. Vinegar bottle 11. East coast state 53. Dying words 54. Cheer’s patron (abbr.)

55. Campus store 12. Army training 56. Quashes group

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) 88mph; 2) Easter Island; 3) Ecuador; 4) Monegasque; 5) 20th century (1909)

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

9

pounds (4.082kg) of dead skin cells fall off your body every year.

54

percent of dog owners would consider ending a relationship if their dog didn’t like their partner, according to a survey.

85

percent of people in the US believe they are less biased than the average American.

95

years is how long Native Americans have been US citizens.

4.4 billion

US dollars is how much the US government could save over 30 years by using $1 coins instead of $1 bills.

Source: Uberfacts

Surf dog. Photo: Kimberley Fijman - Bodhi Dog Rescue and Shelter in Pa Khlok Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket? Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

This week in history April 5, 1242 During the Battle on the Ice of Lake Peipus, Russian forces, led

by Alexander Nevsky, rebuff an invasion attempt by the Teutonic Knights.

April 6, 1974 Swedish pop band ABBA wins the Eurovision Song Contest held at The Dome in Brighton, UK, giving Sweden its first triumph in the contest with the song “Waterloo”, and launching the band’s

historic international career.

April 7, 1933 Prohibition in the United States is repealed for beer of no more than 3.2% alcohol by weight, eight months before the ratification of the XXI amendment. (Now celebrated as National Beer Day in the United States.)

April 8 , 1820 The Venus de Milo is discovered on the Aegean island of Milos.

ABBA, 1974. Photo: WikiCommons April 9, 2005 Charles, Prince of Wales marries Camilla Parker Bowles in a civil ceremony at Windsor’s Guildhall.

April 10, 1815 Mount Tambora volcano in Indonesia begins a three-month-long eruption. Ultimately 71,000 people are killed and the Earth’s climate is affected for two years. The year 1816 becomes known as the “year without a summer”.

April 11, 1981 A massive riot in Brixton, south London results in almost 300 police injuries and 65 serious civilian injuries.

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 23

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 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, APRIL 5, 2019

Trades & Services

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

ADVERTISING SERVICES

CLEANING SERVICES

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

CORPORATE SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

MARINE SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

@thephuketnews

26 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Trades & Services

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

classifieds@thephuketnews.com

MARINE SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

OTHER

PROPERTY SERVICES

TRAINING

ADVERTISE HERE

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 27

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

Buy & Sell BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE

tion. 1 owner. Regular maintenance in authorized centers. Twin Volvo IPS600 435hp, joystick control, Engine Hours: 670. Furuno radar. GPS. B6,900,000. 0878970501.

All prices are for up to 6 people, include: - land transfers, lunch, soft drinks, water, tea/ coffee and selected beverages, fruits and services of a captain and a stewardess. Charters start at 9 am, finish at 5 pm. Hours can be adjusted. Pavel, fortuna-2009@bk.ru, +7 984 188-62-89. Pavel (WhatsApp) +7 914 790-73-78 Pavel (WhatsApp) +66 83-475-7351 Pavel + +35799989736 (WhatsApp)

FOR SALE AIR BERTH M320

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).

BUSINESSES FOR SALE UR

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Refurbished Restaurant & Bar

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

@thephuketnews

@thephuketnews

BUSINESS FOR SALE

LE 42ft Sport SA T Yacht,Reduced Price RGEN Monterey 415SY. Perfect condi- U

A Sunreef 60 Loft, TS EN G year 2016, 185,000 UR baht day charter

The Phuket News

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CARS, TRUCKS FOR SALE Car for sale

Golden Business Opportunity

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

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

CARS, TRUCKS FOR SALE

2012 Ford Ranger 2.2 Open Cab

Subaru XV

78,000km. Six-gear manual transmission. Looks and feels like a new car, treated like a baby by its single owner. Engine clean as. Full set of new tyres. B500,000. Call 081 427 5168.

Car For Sale

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�เภอ ถลาง จังหวัดภ เู ก ็ต, B 250,000 info@lifestyleinthailand.com, 0826291419

Cross trek bought new 2013.

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

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Toyota GT 2013 - FT86

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Mitsubishi 2.0 GT Mivec Auto

Excellent Condition. Modifications on the car - Dual stainless steel exhaust, Bonnet, front & rear bumper, side skirts are Evo X Upgrade, Tinted windows and Upgraded alloy wheels. THB 470,000. Call Lek 0991677378.

FINANCIAL, LEGAL

Immaculate condition, QUICK SELL REDUCED PRICE includes over 1M baht in options; GT Brembo brakes, Adjustable suspension, performance exhaust. Pioneer AVHX8850BT with Audison sound system. ADV7.1SL. 1 Piece forged rims.

1.35M OBO, Dan Miles, danmilesmedia@gmail.com, 065 621 5541, Thai 091 165 9332.

Loan money for bail

Pablo, pablolawyer@gmail.com, Whats up +79841886289 Whats up +79147907378

MEMBERSHIPS

BLUE CANYON GOLF MEMBERSHIP

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

28 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Buy & Sell MOTORBIKES FOR SALE

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

PROPERTY WANTED

Ducati Multistrada 2012

The Heights Phuket - Freehold

Interested Buyers looking for Foreign Freehold Units at the Height Phuket, if you are an owner or have any available units, please contact: +66872699206 or email mick11468@gmail.com

2012 Model Multistrada. Perfect condition. Only 23,000 kms.

Faithfully maintained. Have panniers and 15 liter tank bag.

Steve, ducphuket@gmail.com, 081-734-8309.

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PERSONAL SERVICES Business Services

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Paul MOORHOUSE

Recently fully renovated villa at the heart of Laguna Phuket. Huge plot, 4/5 bedrooms, study, dining lounge, European kitchen, lots of decking, large garden and sala with pool and a double garage. Can walk anywhere in Laguna and Boat Avenue in 5 minutes or so and includes family Laguna Golf and Sanctuary Club Membership. Fully furnished and equipped, freehold or leasehold to suit buyer. Reduced price for quick sale. 22 million Baht, ceopaulm@hotmail.com, +66898737075.

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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

5-Bed Pool Villa 1.2 Rai Rawai

Villa with 4 beds, open-plan living area, western kitchen. Separate 1-bed guest suite. Separate workshop and laundry. Pool 11mx5m, large private garden, residential area. www.thaivillaonline.com Price - B15,750,000.

0844477247.

2 Bed Condo Bangtao Phuket

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

Sale - Koh Kaew, 2-Bed Condo

2-Bedroom Royal Phuket Marina Condo. Must be seen to be believed. So much space! 195m2 Stylish, Tastefully-Decorated Condominium Fully Furnished Overlooking Yacht Marina an absolute bargain @ 13.5 Million Baht, Christine, 0948411918

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.

White sand beach

29 Rai with breathtaking views and 128 meter of white sand beach frontage on Koh Yao Yai, just 20 minutes from Phuket away, secure Chanote tittle, public concrete road, water, electricity and ready to build for sale direct from owner for only 5.5 mln per Rai. Montha, montha_phuket@yahoo. com, 095 0147888.

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 Shop for rent at Amari Phuket, Patong Beach

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

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

PROPERTY FOR RENT

COMMUNITY

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. Fantatsic facilities in this resort condo. B15,800,000, Tina, 0872699206.

Rawai 1 Bed Seaview Condo for Sale

Penthouse for sale

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, Christine, 094 841 1918.

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

Mai Khao Beach Condo-Great condo.

5mins from Splash Jungle Water Park.

Wonderful location and is a must see.

B5,300,000, Christine, 0948411918.

432.44 Sqm.Penthouse for sale: 320 Degree view of Patong bay and city. Private pool. 22nd floor (top floor) at Andaman Beach Condominium, Patong, Phuket, Thailand. Condo Facilities. see beachsuites.com/gallery. No broker please. 60 Million Baht O.N.O., Songpan, songpanpirom@hotmail.com, 081 737 8662.

Mueang Phuket 1 Bed Condo

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Mai Khao 1 Bed Condo Sale

Fantastic seaviews. Fully furnished. Condo facilities including pool and gym. Close to amenities. This 58sqm condo at Babylon Sky Garden is a great buy. B3,600,000, Andy, phuket@ thairesidential.com, 083 800 1888.

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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

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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PROPERTY FOR SALE

Layan Gardens Luxury Apartment

Layan Gardens is a luxurious complex of only 40 wonderful 3 and 4 bedroom apartments just outside Laguna Phuket with tremendous facilities including 3 pools, jacuzzi, BBQ areas, Floodlit tennis court, boules pitch, golf pitching and putting area and much more. We currently have 2 apartments for sale (from 15.5 million Baht) and 2 apartments available for long term let (minimum 12 months). Check out this wonderful development on our website and contact us for sales or lettings.0898737075.

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On the west side of Cape Panwa overlooking a stunning beach and Chalong Bay this wonderful property sits in 1.75 Rai’s of beautiful landscaped grounds and has a huge pool, jacuzzi, waterfall, shaded and non-shaded decking, large bar/dining sala and much more. With 4 bedroom suites and ample space to build more if required. This superb property with great sea views must be viewed. Being sold at a reduced price for urgent sale and is fully furnished and equipped and ready to move in immediately. B57,000,000. 0898737075.

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Paul MOORHOUSE

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

UR Magnificent property with private ele BABY GRAND w/ DISC PLAYER vator, 4 bedroom suites/6 bathrooms "Classic" Baby Grand Piano with "Disc Player". In perfect condition. 7 years as well as 2 living areas, european old. Original price 428,000 THB. 170,000, Phuket Town, daryldavies9@gmail. design kitchen, games room, bar, com, 080 159 5239 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.

Providing International Clients with Complete Debt Recovery Solutions in the Phuket. Pablo, Umbrellacorp144@gmail.com, +66952688880 and +35799989736 (WhatsApp)

PROPERTY FOR SALE

PROPERTY FOR SALE

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

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.

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

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 quite aera, 2 km mission hill golf, 6km UWC, 8 km airport. owner finance. 0870608400 engl/ german 12.9MB, picharly@gmail. com

Paul MOORHOUSE

Solid, profitable business for sale at the entrance to Laguna Phuket. Specialising in Ladies Fashion, Beachwear, Footwear, accessories and jewelry.

New 3 year lease on large unit and fully equipped and quality stocked store. Ready to take over and no additional costs. Tel 089 8737075 for more information.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

SPORT 29

KL Cobras cold as ice in BK

Cobras capture top tier in City of Angels Tourney in Bangkok ICE HOCKEY Scott Murray

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he New Delhi Sacred Bulls, the Shanghai Red Guard and 22 other teams competed in the City of Angels Ice Classic held March 27-30 in Bangkok at the Rink, Grand Central Rama IX. The Kuala Lumpur Cobras shutout the Dubai Mighty Camels 3-0 to win the top tier in the tournament.

Cobra captain Rich Hutson brought in four fellow Canadians and his squad went undefeated throughout the competition.

Long-time tournament participant Joe Burgess died recently in Phuket, so tournament organiser Scott Whitcomb of Jogsports named one of the divisions after him and the Tokyo Hockey Freaks defeated the North of 69ers 2-1 to capture the division honouring Joe. Joe, a skilled carpenter who built Canada’s third-largest log cabin, moved from Canada to Phuket to help with the clean-up after the devastating tsunami of Dec 26, 2004, but he stayed on, fell in love with Khun Nok and opened a restaurant on Bang Tao Beach called Nok & Joe’s.

In the last year of his life, Joe got

The KL Cobras on their way to victory at the City of Angels Ice Classic in Bangkok. Photo: Naratip Srisupab / SEALs Sports Images ice in Phuket and he couldn’t have been happier, even if the Zamboni wasn’t working properly. Joe taught kids and organised shinny hockey at the Phuket Ice Arena in Boat Lagoon.

He sadly passed away in the early morning hours of March 14.

Phuket Ice Arena coach Mikhail Serkin and Phuket Pirates player Michael Forbes made the trip up to Bangkok from Phuket to play with

the Russian team Amhel in the City of Angels elite division.

The Flying Farangs had two teams in the tourney; the above-35 squad lost to Jellonas from Finland 3-2 in their semi-final match. Jellonas featured former NHL player Sami Helenius who suited up for the Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche among others during his professional career.

The Flying Farangs over-40 squad

The Crazy Viking stops unbeaten Luiz in Vegas MUAY THAI PHUKET FIGHTER, MAGnus Andersson, made a big impression on American fight fans last Saturday (Mar 30) as he forced a third-round doctor’s stoppage of Brazil’s Washington Luiz at his US debut at Lion Fight 53.

The Swede lived up to expectations at the co-main event middleweight bout, demonstrating why he his a star attraction at Muay Thai shows.

“I felt strong and confident from the beginning,” the ‘Crazy Viking’ told The Phuket News.

“My plan was to tire him out and towards the end of the second round I started clinching more, which was working.

“So we decided to go for the same tactics in the third round where I punished his body with many hard knees.

“At the end of that round he could barely continue to fight, and the referee decided to stop the fight on the doctor’s advice, giving me the win by TKO.” The Brazilian was previously unbeaten in 22 fights before Saturday night. @thephuketnews

Andersson will travel the US and Sweden holding seminars before returning to Phuket to train for his next fight.

Poria Mermand

Magnus ‘Craz y Viking’ Andersson celebrates in Vegas. Photo: Lion Fight

led by captain John Schachnovsky captured their fourth straight title, beating arch-rival Hong Kong Tigers 4-1 in their division final.

Kari Miettinen of the KL Cobras Rec team was the leading scorer in the tourney with 15 goals and one assist. Bangkok’s Andy Brine had the most assists (10) while Tero Kipela of the Abu Dhabi Scorpions led the goalies in wins (4) and goals

against average [GAA] (.60); Brad McNamee of the New Delhi squad had the best save percentage (.982), while four goalies (Brad McNamee, Tero Kipela, Brad Baker of the Tokyo Hockey Freaks, Partick Leduc of the Flying Farang) shared the shutout lead with two each.

Full final results: +40 Tier IV, Phuket Joe Memorial Cup: Tokyo Hockey Freaks 2 North of 69ers 1; +40 Tier III, The Rink Finals: New Delhi Sacred Bulls 3 Shanghai Red Guard 2; +40 Tier II, Concept Water Finals: Jakarta Dragons 7 Singapore Manimals 4; +35 Tier II Power Play Sports Finals: Singapore Dons 4 Kuala Lumpur Cobras “Rec” 1; +35 Open Samitivej Finals: Kuala Lumpur Cobras “Open” 3 Dubai Mighty Camels 0; +35 Rec Tier 1 Finals: Abu Dhabi 3, Jellonas 0; +40 Tier I Jogsports Finals: Bangkok Flying Farangs 4 Hong Kong Tigers 1.

The tournament coincided with the departure of the Thai National Team for the United Arab Emirates where they will compete this week in the IIHF Division 3 qualifying round against Hong Kong, Kuwait, Bosnia Herzegovina, Kyrgyzstan and hosts UAE. The Thai team won its first game on Sunday with a 5-4 shootout victory over Bosnia Herzegovina.

30 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

Leclerc restores Ferrari faith Frenchman’s stellar performance puts Ferrari back in contention BOX OF NEUTRALS Michael Lamonato michael@boxofneutrals.com

A

fter a near-faultless weekend in just his second race as a Ferrari driver, you’d struggle to find anyone who thinks Charles Leclerc didn’t deserve to stand atop the podium at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

The 21-year-old man from Monaco came painfully close to achieving his maiden Formula One victory in just his second year in the sport.

Having stormed to a track record-breaking pole position on Saturday night, and after building a comfortable lead over the field in the dying stages of the race, a failed engine cylinder cruelled his chances of taking home the deserved result less than 15 laps from the end.

He exchanged frantic radio messages with his pit wall as the team attempted to diagnose the problem, but all the while he was losing bucketloads of time, his car

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Mercedes duo Valtteri Bottas and Lewis Hamilton tussle for the podium at the Bahrain Grand Prix on March 31. Photo: AFP down 40 kilometres per hour on the straights. It took just six laps for Hamilton to close the 10-second gap and pass the stricken Ferrari for the lead, and six laps later Bottas slashed his 37-second deficit to deprive Leclerc of another position. Third place and a

point for fastest lap – set before his car began to fail him – was all Leclerc had to show for a dominant weekend on which he announced himself as a championship contender.

“Today was not our day,” he lamented. “It’s sad because obviously I was so close to re-

alising a dream that you have since childhood, which is your first win in Formula One, but hopefully this day will come one day in the future.”

If the opinions of his chief rivals are anything to go by, the realisation of Leclerc’s dream will likely come sooner

rather than later, with praise effusive in the aftermath of his near miss.

“You were g reat this weekend, you really drove fantastically,” Hamilton told Leclerc. “You’ve got a long, long future ahead of you.”

Bottas added, “Obviously hard luck for Charles, he was very strong, but it will come for him – I had to wait more than 80 races for my first win, so it’s going to be okay!”

But though Leclerc was flattered by the praise, the key weekend takeaway that will most buoy him will be that he soundly beat his fourtime championship-winning teammate, Sebastian Vettel.

Leclerc had the upper hand for just about the entire weekend, blinking only at the start of the race when a poor getaway dropped him to third. He wasted no time recovering, however, and by lap six was back into the lead with a pair of ruthless passes on Bottas and Vettel.

Indeed the contrast between the two red-clad drivers grew only starker thereafter.

Leclerc sprinted off into the

distance, leaving Vettel to fend off advances from Hamilton in a race-long squabble for second place. In the end Hamilton prevailed, but only after Vettel needlessly spun his car as the pair duelled on lap 38.

Vettel flat-spotted his twolap-old tyres so badly that the ensuing vibrations shattered his front wing, necessitating another pit stop that dropped him to ninth, from where he eventually recovered to fifth.

It’s far from the first time Vettel has cracked under the pressure of wheel-to-wheel combat – his 2018 title campaign floundered on a litany of similar unforced errors – and with Leclerc serenely controlling the race before his car conspired against him, it was difficult not to accept that the much-hyped challenge to Vettel’s Ferrari hegemony was coming to pass at the hands of the sport’s most exciting rising star.

Charles Leclerc may not have won the race, but he most certainly won himself an entry to the 2019 championship fight.

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Run #1731: Saturday Apr 6 Run Start Time: 4pm Hares: Singha, No Hope, Fungus Location: Thanyapura Directions: Continue north from the traffic lights in the centre of Thalang for approx 2.4km.

Approx 300m before the Old Airport Road Traffic lights take the U-turn (No HHH sign) and come back towards Thalang for 400m (NO U-turn at the lights allowed). Turn left at the HHH sign and head east for 2.8 km. Turn right just before the pylons (HHH sign) and the laager is in the date palms.

Park in the date palms, NOT in the vegetable garden by the pylon. Beer Truck will be marked.

Cars can now access the Date Palms and park in the shade. Please note that at the behest of the owners there is to be NO SMOKING inside the Date Palms due to the fire risk at present.

Bus pick-up: Patong @ Expat Hotel: 14:30 | Kamala @ Aussie Pub: 15.00 | Chalong More info: phuket-hhh.com

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FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

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Spurs must act big in new stadium says Pochettino FOOTBALL

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The overall competition winner will receive a 3 day/2 night stay in a two-bedroom private pool villa including daily breakfast plus a 90-minute spa treatment for two persons at Baba Beach Club Phuket. Total prize value: B130,000 The monthly competition winner for April 2019 will receive a B3,000 voucher to spend at Islander Bar & Restaurant, Rawai.

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M

auricio Pochettino has urged his Tottenham chiefs to think big in the transfer market as they prepare to open their expensive new stadium.

With the new 62,062-seat abode used for the first time in the Premier League when Crystal Palace visited on Wednesday (Apr 3), Tottenham have laid the foundations for the club’s future.

The swanky stadium and their superb training ground give Tottenham among the best infrastructure in Europe.

But that is not matched by their investment in a squad which is in danger of failing to secure a top-four finish in the Premier League.

While they splashed out £1 billion (B41.7 billion) for the stadium due to escalating building costs, Tottenham have gone through the last two transfer windows without making a signing and their wage bill is nothing like their other top-four rivals.

On the eve of Tottenham’s return home, Pochettino delivered a message for chairman Daniel Levy that echoed the one he made at the end of last season, when he told the club to be “brave and take risks if we want to challenge the big clubs in Europe because now it looks like when you arrive at the stadium it looks like a big club.”

“Before you could say, ‘Yeah, but the stadium only holds 36,000’. But now, when you arrive here there is no point in thinking like a small club.

“You must think like a big club, to be close to the big clubs, the way that the big

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Mauricio Pochettino has urged Tottenham to think big in their new stadium. Photo: AFP clubs think.

“If you want to compare to Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Juventus or Real Madrid, you can’t think you are Tottenham with 36,000.

“We need to think like a big club and that is the most important step that we need to make.”

Pochettino was linked with the Manchester United and Real Madrid jobs before they were filled by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Zinedine Zidane respectively.

But he dropped another hint to Levy that he won’t stick around much longer without serious investment.

“Of course, you say to me, ‘With you? Without you?’

I don’t know. That is about Daniel,” he said.

“But I think my responsibility, like it was five years ago, is to tell the club, ‘Now, we’ve finished the new stadium, we

are going to think like a big club. What does it mean to think like a big club?’” Pochettino used Tottenham’s most recent opponents Liverpool, who they lost 2-1 to on Sunday (Mar 31), as an example to highlight what he thinks the club need to do.

“I was talking with Daniel after the Liverpool game and sometimes people compare us with Liverpool. (Virgil) Van Dijk was £75 million (B3.1 billion) 18 months ago. The keeper (Allison) was £70 million (B2.9 billion),” he said.

“They had two midfielders on the bench who they spent more than £100 million (B4.17 billion) on in the summer.

“The people sometimes say an opinion of Tottenham is like Liverpool. In what?

Yes, now we are going to be better than Liverpool because we have a better stadium and better training ground.

“But now is another thing to compete as we need to operate maybe similar to them in the future or not. We will see which is the project.”

Sunday 7th Apr

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editor3@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

Phuketian honoured at Bangkok ice hockey comp > p30

DREAM CATCHERS USA college dreams come true for three Phuket athletes SPORT Lee Blake

T

he dream of playing College sport in the US is about to become a reality for three hard-working athletes at the British International School, Phuket (BISP).

Year 13 students Fann Rui Nicholle Toh (Swimming), Sam McInnes (Triathlon) and William Valtos III (Football) have all received athletic scholarships to American universities and will begin their studies next academic year.

US athletic recruitment at the university level is highly competitive. Only certain sports have athletic scholarships available and candidates must also meet the academic requirements of an athletic association to be eligible.

Almost all universities have scholarship programmes, most of which are open to applications from international students.

Singaporean butterfly specialist Fann Rui Nicholle Toh, a scholar at BISP since year 10, started the application process last year. After creating a profile on collegeswimming. com – which ranks applicants based on their swim times – Toh was fortunate enough to receive a number of offers from various colleges. After careful consideration, she decided to accept a full scholarship at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque – a

BISP Senior boys football captain, William Valtos III, has earned a place at Wake Forest University, NC. Photo: BISP National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division 1 college.

“I feel comfortable and confident that the environment and support given by the experienced swim coaches there will be able to help me excel to a greater level,” says Toh. “The climate in Albuquerque is also less harsh compared to other states, plus it’s on high attitude which makes it ideal for training. I also have friends

there who I have trained with and competed against, which should make my transition into college an easier one.”

Scottish junior triathlon champion Sam McIn nes joined BISP in year 12. As triathlon is a relatively new college sport in the US, McInnes was initially unsure about setting her sights on America. But after a brief visit to Queens University of Charlotte in North Caro-

lina in December, McInnes signed with the university due to its recognised triathlon programme and well-regarded coach.

“My coach at BISP already knew the Queens coach, so was able to recommend me which I am sure was useful.

There are 40 male and female triathletes in the programme, all of whom are at a high level.

Queens is also the second top triathlon university in the

country,” she says.

McInnes says her International Baccalaureate points earned at BISP will stand her in good stead for her first year of study. In her second year, she hopes to specialise in Art or International Business.

BISP Senior boys football captain William Valtos III used to dream of playing professional football as a young boy growing up in the Philippines.

While on scholarship at BISP,

Valtos has had the opportunity to play football at several talent identification camps in the US to get noticed. His talent and dedication has now earned him a place at Wake Forest University, also in North Carolina, which is ranked first in the NCAA Division 1 competition. Wake Forest is also academically competitive, which has required Valtos to maintain a high level of academic success while at BISP. Valtos says he is looking forward to having the opportunity to play at a high level with some of the best players in college football.

“The Cruzeiro academy at BISP has definitely helped me mature and improve my tactical understanding of the game, making me more adaptable to different playing styles, such as the style in the US.” Br it ish I nter nat ional School, Phuket has sports academies in Swimming, Triathlon, Football, Golf and Tennis. The school’s Athletics Director, Jeff Lamantia, says, “Seeing some of our top athletes earn sporting scholarships to the US is proof that our academies really are providing a pathway to continued sporting success and participation. If our athletes want to try to forge careers through the US College system, then they can receive letters of reference from our academy coaches as well as application assistance from the school’s careers councillors.”

Phuket’s 10yr old golf star qualifies for US tournament GOLF PHUKET’S STAR GOLFER, ten-year-old Louise Landgraf, has finished in an impressive second place at the weekend’s TGA-Singha Junior Golf Championships.

The competition, held at the Royal Hills Golf Club in Nakhon Nayok from March 29-31, was a qualifier for the IMG Academy Junior World Championships in

San Diego to be held from July 9 to 11, 2019.

Landgraf finished just two shots behind the tournament winner, and with impressive scores of 66, 74 and 70, will represent Thailand in the ‘D’ class for girls aged 9 to 10. This will mark her fourth time participating at the annual event in California.

The young star will also be defending her title at the 11th Annual IJGA World Stars of Junior Golf

Championships from July 16 to 18 in Las Vegas.

During the TGA-Singha tournament over the weekend, Landgraf shot an albatross on the final day – a hole-in-one on a par 4. An extremely unlikely achievement for any golfer, she scored the shot from 239 yards at the 17th hole – creating a memory that she will cherish forever.

This wasn’t the first time that Landgraf has achieved such a feat.

At the mere age of six, she made club history by becoming the youngest golfer ever to achieve a hole-in-one at the Laguna Phuket Golf Club in 2015.

Landgraf has been playing golf since she was 4.5 years old and practises daily at Phuket International Golf School. She is also a member of Loach Palm Golf Club and Laguna Phuket Golf where she practises on course on a regular basis.

Poria Mermand

Louise Landgraf with Thai National Team Coach K. Kris at the TGASingha Junior Golf Championships. thephuketnews