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DID THEY RATTLE YOU? PHUKET QUAKES EXPLAINED > PAGE 3
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OFFICIALS FINALLY CHECK PHANG NGA ISLANDS AND FIND HUMAN REMAINS, PROBABLY ROHINGYA Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th
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t least two bodies were found this week in camps set up by people traffickers in Phang Nga that were abandoned after raids by police and officials in September last year. On Tuesday (May 5) Phang Nga Governor Prayoon Rattanasaenee,
city officials and police investigated the area of the camp on Koh Toh Kra in Takuapa District. The investigation came after police questioned a 13-year-old Rohingya boy arrested for illegal entry in September last year and were told that he came with a group of Rohingya from Myanmar. The boy said the group were beaten by Thai brokers. About 10
died, he said, and their bodies were buried at Koh Toh Kra. In the jointly conducted search of three locations on the island – eight months later – by local district officials and workers of Sawang Meka Takua Pa foundation, a grave was found on Tuesday (May 5). After digging into the sand for 20 minutes, the skeleton of a woman was discovered.
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The skeleton is believed to be that of a woman about 1.5 metres tall, who was buried according to Muslim tradition. Officials believe she was most likely a Rohingya, probably taken to the area to be trafficked. They also think she may have been pregnant at the time of her death. DNA tests are being done to confirm whether she was in fact Rohingya.
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Underage rockthrowing thugs surrender to police > page 4
Quake survivors make it home to Phuket – in time for quake Matt Pond editor3@classactmedia.co.th
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fter being stuck in the mountains of Nepal for nearly one week following the devastating quake in that country, the owners of Rawai-based Blue Label Diving, Ben Reymenants and his wife Simone, finally arrived back home in Rawai on Monday (May 4). The pair arrived back in Phuket just in time for the 4.6-Richter quake that shook the island on Wednesday morning (May 6). Ben told The Phuket News, “We both jumped out of bed at 4:15am. Well conditioned,
I might say.” But, he added, “I think we were both a bit in denial, seeing the hour it was. We convinced each other it was a storm and went back to bed.” As reported on the front page of The Phuket News last Friday (May 1) Ben and Simone were trekking through a snowstorm below Mount Everest, near Gokyo and close to the Tibet border, when the 7.9-Richter quake struck near the Nepalese capital, Kathmandu, on April 25. After struggling for three days to get down from the mountain, they arrived on April 27 at Lukla, a small and relatively undamaged town normally used as an access
Ben and Simone in Nepal - Photo Ben Reymenants point for Everest climbers. It was while he was in Lukla that Ben first described to The Phuket News how much destruction had been caused by the quake “Pretty grim, ghost towns and collapsed roads,
choppers everywhere taking out deceased and wounded,” was how Ben described it. Ben and Simone spent a further five days in Lukla before finally getting a flight to Kathmandu on Friday (May
1), “We’ve finally made it,” was the post on Ben’s Facebook page that day. Early on Sunday morning (May 3), Ben posted on his Facebook page, “Our last hours in Nepal, looking forward to fresh food and stable ground. We both ended up with a stomach bug and a throat infection. “We did a tour through Kathmandu yesterday and the situation is not as bad as TV shows. Thamel is almost completely intact and so are most of the temples. “Paranoia on aftershocks and bad dreams will linger for a while, but overall we have been extremely lucky.
THIRD SHOCK HITS ISLAND
JUST BEFORE THE PHUket News went to press yesterday (May 7) the island was shaken by another aftershock, registering 4.5 on the Richter scale. The quake, at 12:30am, was centred in the same place as the quake and aftershock on Wednesday (see story, facing page). Again, no damage or casualties were reported. The Thailand Seismology Bureau said that there may be more aftershocks in the days to come but that none are likely to be major.
Bones in Phang Nga tell tales of trafficking horror Continued from page 1 Four other graves were also discovered nearby, but due to heavy rain, authorities had to suspend the search until Wednesday (May 6). But officials said there are strong indications that they, too, contain the remains of Rohingya migrants who were smuggled into the country. Authorities believe that this location was used as a collection and resting point for Rohingya migrants who were brought in boats by human traffickers. As to whether there was any connection to the graves that were discovered in Padang Besar, they could not say with any certainty, as a thorough investigation has yet to be
made. Phang Nga police chief Pol Maj Gen Chalit Keawyarat said, “We believe that this location had been used in the past as a collection point. As to whether Rohingya migrants were moved from here to Padang Besar or not, that has yet to be determined. As far as we can tell, this gravesite was probably dug in September of last year.” Besides the discovery on Koh Toh Kra Island, human remains, also believed to be of a Rohingya migrant, were discovered tethered to a mangrove tree on nearby Koh Nok Island. Koh Nok is situated around three kilometres off Koh Toh Kra and authorities suspect
Rescuers carefully lay out the remains of a woman found at the Koh Toh Kra site. Photo by Jakkapan Rattanaarporn that the victim was tortured there and left to die. Pha ng Nga gover nor Prayoon Rattanaseni said that in the past authorities had had several run-ins with human traffickers who were ferrying in Rohingya migrants
using large vessels. They were then transferred into smaller boats and brought to collection points on the number of small islands spread along the coast of Phang Nga. But due to the widespread inaccessible territory, catch-
ing them proved difficult. Authorities were however, able to make arrests on five occasions when the migrants were being transported on the mainland. More than 300 suspects were arrested. “Last September we arrested 27 suspects and in October we caught another 53. In November we again managed to arrest a further 81. Twenty three of those questioned finally admitted that they were involved with human trafficking operations,” he said. The recent discoveries in Koh Toh Kra and Koh Nok islands in Phang-nga indicate strongly that human traffickers were using the southern provinces to transport Rohingya
migrants from Myanmar into Thailand. According to a tweet on Wednesday by Sunai Phasuk, senior Thailand researcher for Human Rights Watch, Thai authorities believe trafficking gangs have used at least 45 island camps and 60 jungle camps to hold Rohingya “in horrendous conditions”. Pushed by orders from the Bangkok government, local authorities have been told to coordinate their efforts better in order to prevent further human trafficking into or through Thailand. More Rohingya bodies found in deep south jungle – See page 9 Additional reporting by Thai PBS
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EARTHQUAKE Island rattled as local fault line delivers a jolt Nattha Thepbamrung reporter3@classactmedia.co.th
R That’s now a no-no: Motorcyclist ride through the underpass.
Police to enforce ban on bikes in new underpass PEOPLE RIDING OR DRIVing two-wheel or three-wheel transport – including bicycles, motorbikes, motorbikes with sidecars and classic threewheel tuk-tuks – have been warned that they risk being fined from this week onwards if they ride through the new Central Festival underpass. Warning signs are now in place – though in Thai language only. From Wednesday morning (May 6) the warnings were also being shown on the electronic billboards at either end of the underpass. Somkiet Yimpong, Project Engineer for the Central Festival under pass, said, “We put up the signs four or
five days ago. We know that some riders are breaking the rules but it is up to the police to deal with that. However, there are CCTV cameras at the entrance at each end of the underpass.” Pol Lt Col Ampon Chantanakul, superintendent of Vichit Police Station, said, “Two-wheel and three-wheel vehicle are not allowed to go into the underpass. That’s an international standard. “We have been working to stop people and warn them, because this might be a new concept for some riders and drivers. But we will start applying the no-entry rules strictly this week.”
esidents across the island were awoken at about 4:15am on Wednesday morning (May 6) by a banging and rumbling, animals howling and a shaking sensation, when an earthquake rattled their homes. The US Geological Survey, which monitors quakes worldwide, said the quake registered 4.3 on the Richter scale, but a spokesman for Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DPM) rated it at 4.6 Richter, with the epicentre southwest of the tip of Koh Yao Yai, about 10 kilometres from Phuket Town. The DPM spokesman said that there had been no reports of buildings in Phuket damaged by the temblor. The Seismology Office of the Thailand Meteorological Department reported that the early morning quake was followed at 12:25 pm by a 3.2-Richter aftershock with the epicentre in the same place. The quake was on the
Two arrested for Cherng Talay robbery AN ARMY PRIVATE AND a second man who had just completed military service were arrested on Monday (May 4) for robbery. Cherng Talay police arrested Pte Chonlatee Kohleg, 23, from Cherng Talay, and Krittameth Jampada, 23, from Nakhon Sri Thammarat for robbing a tour guide earlier in the day. The guide, Saran Shairloo, reported to police that he had been robbed in a soi near the Cherng Talay OrBorTor office. Mr Saran was able to give descriptions of the suspects and
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The duo after their arrest for robbery. the vehicle used in the robbery, and police also saw the incident recorded on CCTV footage. The duo were apprehended at a roadside gasoline pump on
Sri Soonthon Rd, and when searched police found the B540 in cash, a True mobile phone, two bags and a Hemtec radio communication device which had been reported stolen by Mr Saranon. They also seized the Honda Click motorcycle used in the robbery. Police were told that Chonlatee and Krittameth had used pieces of wood and a metal pipe to assualt and threaten Mr Saran before robbing him of his possessions. The duo were charged with robbery at night using a getaway vehicle.
The location of the quake epicentre. Base map: Google Maps Klong Marui quake fault line, which runs close to the east coast of Phuket and is the source of quakes that rock the island every now and then, though none major so far. Apart from local earthquakes Phuket has also felt shocks from quakes near Sumatra in Indonesia, birthplace of the 2004 Asian Tsunami. The only time in recent years that damage was done to homes was on April 16, 2012, after which the government handed out B1.3 million to 410 residents who lived in houses
whose homes were damaged. That occasion was unusual. It was the result of two quakes – a local 4.3-Richter at 4:44pm and a 5.5-Richter off Sumatra just two minutes later. Phuket had two quakes in 2012, two in 2013, one last year, and two earlier this year, one on February 20 and the other on March 25. Earthquake specialist Asst. Prof. Phaiboon Panyakapo of Sripatum University, told The Phuket News on Wednesday morning that the earthquake might make the Klong Marui
fault more active. “The fault is more than 400 kilometers long. At least 200 km of that has the potential to deliver earthquakes of more than 4.0 Richter so these three provinces are at some risk.” However, he added that it was unlikely that the Klong Marui could deliver a tsunami. Associate Prof. Dr Amorn Pimanmas, an expert on earthquakes and structural engineering at the Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, Thammasat University, agreed. He told The Phuket News, “The fault does not have the power to create tsunamis. “What we have to be careful about is following quakes,” Dr Amorn said. “When a small earthquake happens, it is a sign that there may be a bigger one to follow; we do not have the technology to predict this.” On the other hand, he said, small quakes can sometimes make things safer, by releasing energy so that it does not build up. Additional reporting by Alasdair Forbes and Steven Layne
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Taxi crashes into 18wheel truck A 35-YEAR-OLD TA XI driver was taken to hospital after crashing his vehicle into an 18-wheeler truck in Mai Khao on April 30. The accident took place at the intersection of Thepkrassattri Rd and Wat Mai Khao Rd. The taxi driver, 35-yearold Wicharn Artharn, was found trapped in his Toyota taxi which, after colliding with the truck, had veered off into a roadside ditch. The 18-wheeler truck registered in Bangkok, was 100 metres from the collision site, and the driver, Sumais Kladsri, 39, was waiting for police to arrive. Mr Sumais told police that he was driving from Phuket Town heading north on Thepkrassattri Rd when the taxi came out of Wat Mai Khao Rd and slammed into the centre of the trailer truck. Mr Wicharn was taken to Thalang Hospital and was expected to be questioned by police when he is fit to do so.
The two men cannot be identified for legal reasons.
Rock-throwing thugs handed over to police Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th
wo young thugs who threw rocks at a Swedish man’s car on April 27 were brought into Kamala Police Station at 4pm last Friday (May 1) by local provincial council member Sanya Singsrida. The target of the rockthrowing, Bo Jonas Daniel Svegsjo, filed a complaint with police the previous Monday,
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providing them with video and photos shot by his wife, Chanitya Boonpa. The couple had their one-year-old child in the car when they were attacked. The young thugs threw three rocks at the car, hitting the windscreen, back window and one side window as Mr Svegsjo drove along the Kamala-Patong Rd and then Kamala Soi 8. Kamala Deputy Superintendent, Col ML Pattanajak Jakkapan said that the two
teens, aged 15 and 16, face charges of criminal damage. “They told us that they were upset that the victim drove too close to them and did not let them pass his vehicle. “They are under-age, so the Juvenile Court will handle their case.” “This type of behaviour is typical among teenage boys. I believe road rage was the only reason they threw rocks at someone’s car,” Col Pattanajak added.
A fire on Koh Pho Phi last Friday (May 1) totally destroyed 10 rented rooms, a shop and some restaurants. No injuries were reported but the estimated cost of the damage is in the region of B1 million. The fire broke out in a rented room behind the Kashiwanut Restaurant, and officials said that a short-circuit in one of the rented rooms was possibly the cause of the fire.
Stingray the suspect in Korean tourist’s pain
A Korean woman on holiday in Phuket was taken to hospital on April 29 after a marine animal, possibly a stingray, stung her right foot in the sea off Koh Naka. The victim was first taken to the Pa Khlok Community Clinic for treatment. However, she was later transferred to Phuket International Hospital after doctors at the clinic decided she might have been stung by a stringray.
Check on fishing boats uncovers no crimes
Phuket Governor Nisit Jansomwong was part of a team who carried out checks on April 29 on three fishing boats, looking for illegal workers and activities. After the check officials said they had found that no immigration or employment laws had been broken, there were no signs of human trafficking, no illegal transportation of oil or fuel, and no signs of drug use.
‘Bomb’ turns out to be GPS device
Phuket’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit cleared the car park of a hotel in Phuket Town on April 29 after a suspicious device was left there. The EOD were shown a black object with a flashing light lying on the ground, but after examining the device more closely the found it was a GPS device with its batteries covered with duct tape. thephuketnews
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Tour boat owner, crew, face oil slick charges THE OWNER AND CREW of a tourist cruise boat that flushed oil into the sea in Ton Sai Bay, Phi Phi, on April 30 are to face charges of illegal pollution after officials followed up on photos posted on Facebook that showed the Sea Angel Cruise 5 apparently surrounded by a slick. Lt Col Anurak Parinyasathirakul of Krabi Marine police, led officials from the Krabi Marine Office and the Nopparatthara National Park to investigate the oil pollution. They questioned the captain of the boat, Karin Onnkaew, and mechanic Kreangdet Ponsakdidet. The two told them that the boat took tourists for a trip in the waters off Phi Phi and at 3pm, while the tourists swam, they worked on electrical wiring and checked the engine.
“ We t e s t e d a l l t he equipment on the boat and [while we were doing this we spilled] oil on the floor. The automatic bilge pump came on and pumped the left-over oil into the sea,” they told officers. Officials examined the boat’s operation documents and owner’s permit and confirmed that all paperwork was correct and up to date. Officials will also talk with the boat’s owner, Nikorn Tormaitri. He and those involved in causing the spill will face charges of oil pollution under the Marine Act and the National Park Act. When officials arrived at Ton Sai Bay Oil they could see no traces of oil but they will check all beaches and the surrounding area to see whether there is pollution that needs cleaning up.
PHUKET NEWS
B1.5bn allocated to infrastructure
Darawan Naknakhorn editor@classactmedia.co.th
eputy Minister of Transportation Lt Gen Arkom Termpittayapaisith visited Phuket on Saturday (May 2) to take a look at progress at the bypass-Samkong intersection underpass. During his visit he revealed that budgets for infrastructure projects totalling more than B1.5 billion have been approved for the island. The projects are the Bang Koo intersection and Chalong Circle underpasses (B600 million and B570 million respectively), two flyovers (total B200 million) and repairs and improvements to the government marina and the seawall at Chalong (B2170 million). Gen Arkom said, “We are visiting Phuket today to follow up on progress of the tunnel construction which will be completed by the end of the year. “The Darasamuth [Central Festival] underpass has been
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Thai man found floating in Kamala canal THE BODY OF A THAI MAN WAS found floating in a canal in Kamala Park near Kamala Beach on the morning of April 29. Police said that the man was reported missing the previous day. Police, who received a call at 6:30am, arrived at the scene with Dr Pattamart Reinpetch of Patong Hospital and Kusoldharm rescue workers to find a group of residents gathered by the side of the canal. The body of the man, named as Wirat Pinasa, 41, from the northeastern province of Bung Kan, was floating face down in the canal. Rescue workers retrieved the body. After inspecting it police said that there appeared to be no sign of foul play or assault. Mr Wirat̕ s wife told police, “Wirat went fishing at the canal on Tuesday. When he failed
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to come home I went out looking for him. I found his slippers and saleng [motorbike with sidecar] near the canal. “Police, rescue workers and divers searched the canal for him but could not find him.” Police believe that Mr Wirat either fainted or was drunk and passed out, and then fell into the canal. The body was taken to Patong hospital to establish cause of death.
Gen Arkom (pink shirt) visits the Tesco underpass site. open to traffic for a month now and we have had reports of some minor accidents especially involving motorcycles and saleng [bikes with sidercars] in the tunnel. “The Highways Department has set new road rules prohibiting motorcycles and salengs from using the underpasses.” As for the other two underpasses, work on which has yet to be started, Gen Arkom said, “We are ready to announce the terms of reference for these projects and put them out to tender by the end of June.
“We have also allocated B200M to built a U-turn flyover at Koh Kaew and another flyover near the turnoff to Phuket International Airport in order to reduce traffic congestion on Thepkassatri Rd.” “Once all four underpasses are complete, traffic will flow much better. “As for the marina in Ao Chalong, the project began in 2014 with B200 million to build a yacht pier and seawall and we wanted to expand the area into an international hub for yachts and superyachts. “The facility will be able
to receive 40-50 yachts and at least five superyachts. Work on the project stopped in 2012 because of storms and waves that damaged the early construction. “In 2014, The Marine Office set aside B98 million to renovate the area and reconstruct the seawall. “The project is scheduled to finish this November.” The general also visited the Deep Sea Port in Ao Makham, which is also to be expanded to allow more vessels to come alongside the quay. Meanwhile, drivers have been warned to be careful around the Samkong underpass on the bypass road this month because excavation of the channel through which the underpass will be built is about to begin, resulting in large numbers of trucks taking dirt away from the site. Project Engineer Chalermpol Wongkiattikun from the Department of Highways told The Phuket News, “This work will start in the middle of May.”
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Nai Harn Beach is likely location for film museum Nattha Thepbamrung reporter3@classactmedia.co.th
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t has been announced that Phuket will be the only province in Thailand to have a movie museum, dedicated to featuring memorabilia from movies made on the island and in neighbouring provinces. Plans for the museum are still at a very early stage but some details were revealed to The Phuket News on April 30 by Phuket Tourism & Sports Department Director, Santi Pawai, who said that Nai Harn Beach is the likely location for the museum. “The museum will feature memorabilia from movies filmed in Phuket and neighbouring provinces such as Phang Nga and Krabi. “It will be very attractive and we hope that it will help bring more
Phang Nga Bay was the film location for part of the James bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun. visitors to the Nai Harn Beach area,” said Mr Santi. The site will be among the casuarina trees next to the beach. Mr Santi said that Nai Harn was chosen because it has a beautiful beach that is currently not as popular as the island’s other beaches. He hopes that the existence of
the museum will attract filmmakers to the area. Mr Santi added, “Most of the movies filmed in Phuket are foreign movies, with only a few being Thai. A team from Bangkok is currently gathering information on all the films that will be exhibited at the museum.”
With regards to the museum itself, Mr Santi said that it will have an “outdoor-style” design and will include facilities for beachgoers such as rest-and-relax areas, showers, toilets and a food court. “The budget for this project is B40 million, and the project will be funded and managed by the Tourism
& Sports Department in Bangkok. “After the plans are completed, construction of the museum is expected to be finished within six months,” Mr Santi concluded. No date has yet been set for completion. The site was inspected last week by a Tourism Department team led by department director Suban Prakongjai, Mr Santi and Rawai Mayor Arun Sorot. Over the years, places in Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi have been the locations for scenes in a variety of blockbusters including Tsunami: The Aftermath, two Bond movies – The Man with the Golden Gun and Tomorrow Never Dies – The Killing Fields, Around the World in Eighty Days, Star Wars: Episode III, Revenge of Sith, The Beach and, most recently, Mechanic II.
Waterspout spotted off Kata Beach A WATERSPOUT WAS seen just of off Kata Beach at around sunset on April 30. The waterspout could clearly be seen for around a minute before decaying into the clouds above. The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) explains that waterspouts are essentially the same as tornados, but over water. “Waterspouts fall into two categories: fair weather
waterspouts and tornadic waterspouts. “Tornadic waterspouts are tornadoes that form over water, or move from land to water. They have the same characteristics as a land tornado. They are associated with severe thunderstorms, and are often accompanied by high winds and seas, large hail, and frequent dangerous lightning. “Fair weather waterspouts usually form along the dark flat base of a line of develop-
ing cumulus clouds. This type of waterspout is generally not associated with thunderstorms. “While tornadic waterspouts develop downward in a thunderstorm, a fair weather waterspout develops on the surface of the water and works its way upward. “By the time the funnel is visible, a fair weather waterspout is near maturity. Fair weather waterspouts form in light wind conditions so they normally move very little.”
Research ship launched to mark 40 years of Sino-Thai relations THE CH A KTHONG Thongyai, a Thai oceanographic research ship, was launched from a dock at the Andaman Sea Fisheries Research and Development Center pier in Phuket on April 30 as part of celebrations to mark the 40th anniversary of the Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations. The Chakthong Thongyai set off for a one-week trip around the Similan Islands off Phang Nga. Its mission is to collect field data and information about the negative impacts of monsoons on the marine ecosystem in the Andaman Sea. Marine cooperation between Thailand and China began in 2008. Both countries signed agreements on academic collaboration in marine studies and a memorandum of understanding on marine cooperation between Thailand’s Natural Resources and Environment
Ministry and China’s State Oceanic Administration (SOA). The bilateral cooperation covers maritime research, oceanography and environment. Progress on these projects is shared and followed up regularly through many meetings and researcher exchange programs. Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations were officially established on July 1, 1975. Since then government leaders and high-ranking persons of both countries, including members of the Thai Royal Family, have paid mutual visits regularly. The launch was witnessed by Sopon Thongdee, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources and other local officials, while the Chinese side was represented by Zheng Shuwei from Phuket’s Chinese Consular Office. NNT thephuketnews
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Most expensive menu ever? T
he crew at Aziamendi Restaurant in the six-star Iniala Beach House at Natai Beach in Phang Nga are planning to set a new record – a Thai record certainly, and maybe a world record – for the world’s most expensive set menu. The ‘Ultimate’ Menu, which must be ordered at least a week in advance, is priced at B50,000, including some pretty special grape juice. The menu was launched to a select gathering of invited travel and culinary journalists, and read like a ‘Cuisine Atlas of the World’, according to the restaurant’s PR. Each time the Ultimate dinner is reserved, the restaurant requires one week to prepare. Chef de Cuisine Alex Burger will embark on a voyage to source the best products from around the world that are in season, while sommelier Fabien Etienne works to complement each dish with a spectacular vintage wine or champagne. Mr Burger says, “Aziamendi works under the creative governance of Chef Eneko Atxa, therefore the menu ingredients still remain true to the product, wherever possible with a strong Basque influence. “These ingredients are a rare addition to any menu in Thailand or South East Asia, and help to unite the prestigious wines to create an explosion of long flavours and, most
Aziamendi not only serves fantasticly designed food, its building design is also something to be seen. importantly, a night to remember.” Given that it will depend on the freshest ingredients available at the time, the menu will inevitably change as the year rolls around, but the showpiece for the food and travel writers gives some idea of what can be expected. The line-up of courses began with a ‘picnic’ of Hokkaido Sea Urchin Custard, Liquid Gold Cocktail, and Cantabrian Anchovies. This novel course, served out of a basket, was accompanied by Aziamendi’s signature Green Thai cocktail, comprising a surprising medley of flavours including truffle oil, pepper, fresh apple juice and whipped egg whites.
After a brief interlude with courses served in both the Iniala garden and the kitchen, the dinner menu continued inside the restaurant: Fine de Claire oyster topped with salicornia and tomato water gel, whipped eschire butter on toast served with a sparkling NV Krug Grande Cuvee from Rheims to start. Joselito Iberico Ham was carved by the chefs at the table, creating a sense of theatre, washed down with 2009 Peter Michael Belle Côte Chardonnay from California. Foie Gras in three textures; creamy, seared and grated, was then presented with an impeccable 1961 Domaine Huet Vouvray Le Haut Lieu Demi Sec from the Loire Valley.
Porcini Carpaccio with Omelet Foam was served with 2010 Michel Bouzereau Meursault “Les Grands Charrons” from the Burgundy region. Kokotxas al Pil Pil (hake chin), a tribute to Chef Eneko’s Basque country roots was then served with a 2011 Weingut Knoll Grüner Veltliner “Smaragd” Ried Loibenberg from Austria. Fatty Tuna Belly with Saku Noodles was also paired with the Austrian wine. A course of Kobe Beef Striploin from Japan and Grilled Aroma was presented with an Italian 2009 Tenuta Dell’ Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore “Ornellaia” from Tuscany. A selection of world cheeses including Idiazabal, Saint Maure,
Epoisse, Tomme de Savoie and Roquefort was served with 1999 Quinta do Crasto Vintage Port from Portugal, and the finale of the evening was sealed with a chocolate indulgence showcasing Valrhona Chocolates with a 1988 Château Gilette, Crème de Tête, and Sauternes from France. Mark Weingard, the founder of Iniala Beach House, explained, “The concept of the ‘Ultimate’ wine pairing dinner is to offer something more exclusive to diners at Aziamendi and completely different to what guests would expect to find in Thailand. “The price tag reflects the quality of the products but this is also a fantastic way to give back. A percentage of all revenue from Iniala and Aziamendi goes straight to the Inspirasia Foundation.” Is it the most “set” menu expensive in the world? Britain’s Daily Telegraph newspaper recently identified Sublimotion restaurant in Ibiza as possibly the world’s most expensive. That restaurant’s highlight is a 20-course meal for a maximum of 12 people and costing €1,500 a head. Aziamendi’s charge of B50,000 a head works out at €1,383. So, close, but no cigar just yet. For reservations email reservations@ aziamendi.com or call 094 005 0654
Shrimp farmers lobby PM for help as killer disease spreads PR AW N FA R M ER S I N Phuket are asking Prime Minister Pray uth ChanOcha for help af ter t he shrimp farms on the island contracted Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS) causing mass die-offs and a crash in the price of prawns. On April 29, 20 members of the Phuket Shrimp Farmers Association (SFA), led by their chairman, Therayuth Thanomkiet, went to Phuket Provincial Hall to hand over
a letter addressed to Gen Prayuth asking him to help solve the problem which is spreading through prawn farms on the island. Mr Theerayuth said that the farmers have received warnings about EMS since early 2011 and, ever since, shrimp prices have dropped. Many farmers are now facing tough times producing prawns, with many losing their investments. “We want the Minis-
try to take this issue into consideration and come up with solutions to solve the problem for our farmers,” said Mr Theerayuth. Vice-Governor Dr Pallop Singhasanee, who accepted the letter from the SFA said that he has been aware of the problem for quite some time and is in the process of contacting all departments involved in fisheries to come up with ideas to solve the problem.
SOMEDAY IT MIGHT SAVE THEIR LIFE The key Water Safety for parents is: If you are not “within arms' reach" of your children anytime they are around water, you have gone too far.
The swimming academy
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Located at Dara Hotel Book now for a free trial class. Tel. 095 4524241 mantakidsphuket @thephuketnews
AD IS H T REE S S G IN R F CLA R O B F L IA TR
Opinion 8
OPINION
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FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
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The world shakes Thailand awake
T
he horror of human trafficking came home to residents of Phuket this week with the discovery of corpses in former traffickers’ camps close to the popular holiday haven of Khao Lak. While Phuketians let out a collective gasp at the recent revelations of mass graves, jungle camps and human trafficking, officials are waking up from their willful ignorance of the growing problem of human trafficking in this country. The last thing that we need is another song-and-dance show about how terrible the situation has become, without anything being done. It’s time for action and, thankfully, things appear finally to be starting to get done. Authorities discovered a second jungle camp in the Deep South on Tuesday (May 5), not far from the first one found a week ago. And they returned to
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an abandoned camp in Phang Nga, which was raided in September last year. In that raid, a 13-year-old Rohingya boy told authorities that members of his group were beaten and that there were about 10 bodies buried in the area (See page 1). Why did authorities in Phang Nga act only after the discoveries of dozens of bodies in the Deep South? Why did they not take seriously the boy’s story about the Phang Nga camps, a story he told eight months ago? This is likely just the tip of the iceberg. As the body count grows and revelations of just how many of these camps there are in Thailand, so, too, will we learn who is behind all of this. While some local officials have already been arrested, others – mainly police officers – have simply been moved to inactive posts in other areas
(story on page 9). And, according to one senior researcher at Human Rights Watch, it is believed there could be more than 100 such horror camps in peninsular Thailand. The international spotlight is firmly on Thailand. Every report, revelation, and arrest will add to the sense of exasperation that has been building up over years at the squandered chances to mitigate the problem. The Kingdom was given a terrible Tier 3 rating in the 2014 Trafficking In Persons report, released by the US State Department, indicating that the country does not fully comply with minimum human trafficking abatement efforts. Let’s hope that the investigations and ongoing media spotlight will result in real progress against trafficking and not just more papering over the cracks.
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Court OKs outside check of Koh Tao DNA evidence ‘Drunken’ motorist, 23, kills 3 cyclists Waterspout seen close to Phuket Beach: Video Facebook photo shows Phuket tour boat releases oil into the sea Channel 7 to air Mayweather, Pacquiao ‘fight of the century’ in Thailand Fire on Koh Phi Phi causes B1m damage Phuket police to enforce ban on bikes in new underpass Thai sex slaves freed in Bahrain Thailand breaking aviation safety deal, Japan complains Four hospitalised as celebratory fireworks explode into crowd of cyclers, pedestrians
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HAVE YOUR SAY
editor1@classactmedia.co.th Originally from Canada; BA in Sociology from the University of Birmingham in the UK and an MA in Online/Print Journalism from the University of the Arts in London. Three years experience for Britain’s third-biggest publisher, Immediate Media, as well as Bauer Media and InStyle magazine.
EDITORIAL
Cue to clean up the country Re: Prayut begs EU for mercy on illegal fishing As much as I like and respect Gen Prayut, the EU would be nuts to give any mercy to Thailand. Thailand has not just failed to enforce any standards, they have failed to pay any attention to it, in spite of global criticism. Not until they get threatened with economic sanctions is Thailand willing to act like they’re doing something. Thai mistreatment and mismanagement of natural resources, as well as their horrendous record on human trafficking are simply unacceptable in any civilized society. Keep on your path Gen Prayut, and clean this place up. Richard Vickers
No surprises here
Re: Checks on Phuket fishing boats find nothing untoward PM and senior civil servants never talk about protecting Marine National Parks from poachers by Thai fishing boats. Unfortunately, beginning of May is the starting of the South-West monsoon in the
Andaman Sea and all Marine National Parks will be closed to tourism. Therefore fishing boats will have free hand to fish illegally all commercial fish with fishing nets and traps as well to drop their anchors on the coral reefs during storms. It is the right time for the DNP (Department of National Parks) to wake up and request help from the Thai Navy to arrest and prosecute poachers fishing illegally inside the Marine National Parks especially at Similan and Surin Islands in the Andaman Sea. Charlie
Not on my beach, thank you
Re: Phuket to be first province with movie museum Please, I hope this us just a bad dream! Don’t touch the nice trees behind the beach in Nai Harn. I would actually suggest cement pillars along the road to prevent people from driving their cars into this small but beautiful forest. The road behind should also be made one way. There is no space for cars coming from 2 directions. The place is great for a picnic but without the
cars and a museum I’d fine but not there! Hajo
Biting the hand that feeds
Re: Facebook photo shows Phuket tour boat releases oil into the sea This is beyond unacceptable, and is a criminal act to the King’s waters. Perfect example of a typical Thai tour boat operator. This should result in his license being revoked on the spot, and the boat should be seized and converted for use by the Marine Department for emergency response and research. But nothing much will happen... maybe a couple thousand baht fine once the ignorant boat operator says that “it was a misunderstanding...I thought the owner said to do this”, and of course the owner will deny it. Richard Vickers
Re: Facebook photo shows Phuket tour boat releases oil into the sea It is a true fact that all Thai boats, tour and fishing boats, are draining the used oil inside
the boat hull and use the bilge pump to pump the oil into the sea. Regular inspection by lawenforcers of engine rooms at port will show if boat crews are doing it. Many islands being part Marine National Parks such as Phi-Phi, Similan, Surin and Tarutao have permanent tour boats to cater tourists on day and liveaboard trips and do not go back to port to change oil on regular basis. Department of Marine National Park should reinforce the law stipulating that all tour boats may not stay more than 5 days in any Marine National Park. Charlie
A hazardous coastline
Re: BREAKING: Phi Phi Phuket speedboat rams fishing boat off Koh Yao, three of 40 passengers lost at sea I look out over Chalong marina every day and the speed boats are supposed to do 4 knots until 1km out to sea, every day under the noses of the port authorities they speed maybe 20-30 knots till within 50m of the shore, it’s a wonder no-one has been killed yet no-one does anything, accident waiting to happen! malczx7r
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FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
THAILAND NEWS
9
More jungle graves found F
ive more graves have been found near a newly discovered migrant detention camp in the Padang Besar jungle in Songkhla’s Sadao district. The discovery of the jungle camp, which was deserted, came amid calls by the United States for a speedy and credible inquiry into the discovery of dozens of graves and illegal migrant camp sites. Police spokesman Pol Lt Gen Prawut Thawornsiri said the camp and the graves were located about 1km east of the first site discovered last Friday (May 1) where 26 bodies were discovered in a 30-grave burial site. The discovery of the jungle camp, just 200m from the Malaysian border, followed an order by army commander Udomdej Sitabutr for security units to patrol the border jungle. A unit found the second camp on Monday night (May 4). It is believed the camps were used to hold migrants and the bodies found in the first camp were thought to be Rohingya and human trafficking victims, Pol Lt Gen Prawut said. Led by Songkhla Provincial Police chief Ampol Buarubporn, a force of 50 police and rescue staff walked 30 minutes through the jungle Tuesday (April 5) to inspect the camp. Eight temporary shelters made from forest timber were found in the camp which was estimated to cover at least one rai. The camp comprised sleeping shelters, two kitchens, a toilet and two uncompleted shelters. The main sleeping shelter was about 8x13m, and could hold about 30 people. Rescue staff dug up two of the five suspected graves but did not find bodies. “We have patrolled for about 70km in the Padang Besar border jungle,” Pol Maj Gen Ampol said.
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Five more graves have been found at another Songkhla jungle camp where Rohingya were penned like cattle and died, as world outrage grows. Photo: Pornprom Satrabhaya “This is to clear the area. So if new groups come, we will know.” Pol Lt Gen Prawut said police expect to find more detention camps as the investigation into human trafficking proceeds and fresh warrants are likely to be issued. Meanwhile, a spokesman for the US State Department said the US was in contact with the Thai government, the United Nations and the International Organisation for Migration over the discoveries and understood that Thai authorities were actively investigating reports of other camps, Reuters reported. “We encourage a transparent, credible and expeditious inquiry into this case,” the official said. “We urge Thai authorities to investigate fully these deaths and camps, and prosecute those responsible.” Warrants have been issued for the arrest of eight people for alleged involvement in human trafficking networks. Four have been arrested: Arsan Intanu, a member of
Sadao’s tambon Padang Besar municipality council; Ro-ae Sonyalae and Ali Lamoh, both assistant village headmen in tambon Padang Besar; and a Myanmar national identified as Soe Naing Anwar. Police raided seven locations in Padang Besar Tuesday in search of the remaining suspects but to no avail. They are Prasit Lemleh, deputy chief of Padang Besar municipality, Chaoren Thongdaeng and Pakapol Benlatae. National police chief Somyot Pumpunmuang signed an order transferring five senior officers at Padang Besar police station to inactive posts at the Royal Thai Police operations centre. On Monday he also signed an order transferring Satun police chief Pol Maj Gen Suthorn Chalermkiat to an inactive post at the centre. Pol Lt Gen Prawut said an inspection of the graves at the first site indicated the bodies were buried properly, in line with religious beliefs, suggesting the dead were not the
victims of a massacre. He said police will next focus their investigation on the trafficking routes and seek help from Malaysian authorities if evidence suggests any Malaysians are involved. Pol Lt Gen Prawut said Rohingya migrants can be divided into three groups: Those who
can afford to be sent to a third country; those who are waiting for employment in other countries; and those who have fled their home country with no plans or have been rejected by potential employers. Malaysian ambassador to Thailand Nazirah Hussain told the Bangkok Post she was in
no position to comment on a report which indicated the detention camps are situated on the Thai-Malaysian border. Meanwhile, Sakkriya Ratchameong, 50, an elder brother of one of the detained suspects, Mr Ali, maintained his brother has nothing to do with human trafficking. “I don’t think he was involved in the human trafficking gang. But if he was, he would just be a small fish,” Mr Sakkriya said. “The big players have not been arrested.” Aran Suwanraksa, president of Padang Besar municipality, told the Bangkok Post he has issued an order to dismiss his deputy Mr Prasit, a suspect who is still at large. Mr Prasit was allegedly involved in human trafficking two years ago when a group of Rohingya were found to have been smuggled into the Pasang Besar jungle, but was cleared of wrongdoing because of insufficient evidence. Mr Aran said he knew of human trafficking activity in Padang Besar but had nothing to do with it. “I can say I’m clean,” Mr Aran said. “I’m not involved in human trafficking.” Bangkok Post
10 THAILAND NEWS
The dog which saved the baby girl. Photo: Pattanapong Hirunard
Street dog saves baby
A STRAY DOG HAS SAVED a baby girl abandoned next to a rubbish bin at a housing estate in Chon Buri witnesses said. The heroic act occurred in front of a house in the Pattana Villa housing estate. Noi Phongsakorn, 63, a witness, said he saw two stray dogs fighting over something that looked like a doll near a rubbish bin in front of the estate last Sunday night (May 3). “At first I thought they were fighting over a doll, but I was shocked when I heard a baby crying,” Mr Noi said. “It was a baby girl,” he said. He said a stray female dog, called Nom Sod (fresh milk) by residents, tried to save the baby from the fighting animals. The dog picked the baby up in its mouth and carried her 10 metres from the other dogs. Mr Noi informed a rescue foundation to help the baby who had been bitten several times. Bangkok Post
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Four cyclists killed in space of 48 hours or the second time in two days, a cyclist was killed after a car rammed into a group of bikers. Thanyakorn Densirimongkol, 31 died in hospital around 3.30am on Tuesday (April 5) and two fellow cyclists were injured after a car hit them on Ratchada-Ram Intra Road, in front of the Bangkok Boulevard housing estate, at 10pm Monday (April 4). Khok Khram police found the wreckage of three bicycles and a black Honda Jazz about 50 metres away, but the motorist had fled the scene. The fatal accident was the second in 40 hours. On Sunday morning (May 3) in Chiang Mai, a drunk, 23-year-old university student rammed her car into a group of cyclists in Wing Pa Pao district, killing three and injuring two. She was charged Monday with reckless driving resulting in death and injury. In Monday’s accident, Thanyakorn was admitted in critical condition and died about five hours later. Nikom Chenpimai, 36, went into sur-
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
F
Koh Tao DNA evidence can be checked Police inspect a Honda Jazz that killed one cyclist and injured two others on Ratchada-Ram Intra Road, in front of the Bangkok Boulevard housing estate, at 10pm Monday. Photo: Thanarak Khunton) gery while another unidentified cyclist suffered shoulder, elbow and leg injuries. Witnesses told the police that the three bikers were together in the left lane of outbound Ratchada-Ram Intra Road. The Honda behind them was weaving on the road and hit the moving group. The Jazz then hit a barrier before spinning onto the centre island. A young man emerged
from the car, looked at the bikers and ran away, witnesses said. Following Sunday’s accident, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-Ocha on Monday ordered police to crack down on drunk driving. Gen Prayuth specifically instructed police to organise more road check points and strictly refuse any bribes from motorists, said Maj Gen
Sansern Kaewkamnerd, a spokesperson of the military government. Drunk driving is a major cause of traffic accidents in Thailand. During the sevenday Thai New Year festival in April known as Songkran, intoxicated drivers were responsible for more than 1,000 road accidents, according to statistics compiled by the Thai authorities. Bangkok Post
Ladyboy attacks tourist with high-heeled shoe A 24-YEAR-OLD LADYBOY was charged on Sunday (May 3) with physical assault after hitting a tourist with a highheeled shoe for rejecting his offer of sex in Pattaya. An officer from the tourist police said the ladyboy was identified as Wichai Sripalung. Police were alerted to the incident and when they arrived they found Mr Wichai and a foreign man with a deep cut to his head. The man was identified as Michael Mary, 55, an Irish tourist.
Mr Mary told police he passed a bar along Walking Street and Mr Wichai approached him and made a sexual advance. The tourist turned down Mr Wichai’s offer and tried to walk away. The ladyboy persisted with the offer, which angered Mr Mary. He pushed Mr Wichai in the chest, knocking him to the ground, police said. Mr Wichai hit the tourist over the head with his highheeled shoe. Pattayaone.net
A COURT LAST THURSDAY (April 30) approved independent verification of the DNA evidence against two suspects in the murder of two British holidaymakers on Koh Tao last year, officials said. The defence team for Zaw Lin and Wai Phyo, the Myanmar migrant workers accused of the September murders, earlier petitioned the court to have the DNA evidence re-examined. The judge heard the argument that it was necessary to prevent a "miscarriage of justice," officials at the Samui Provincial Court said. The badly beaten bodies of David Miller, 24, and Hannah Witheridge, 23, were found on Sept 15 on Sai Ree beach in Koh Tao. Zaw Lin and Wai Phyo were arrested in October and confessed to the crimes, but later withdrew their statements saying they were tortured. British and Myanmar envoys have raised concerns about the Thai investigation, with London sending a police team as observers. T he National Hu man Rights Commission of Thailand also expressed concern about the alleged forced confessions. Thai police have denied the accusations of torture or misconduct.
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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
ASIA NEWS 11
Unmarried? No riding together district in Indonesia’s Aceh has passed legislation banning unmarried men and women from riding together on motorbikes, a lawmaker said Monday (May 4), the latest new Islamic regulation in the conservative province. Members of parliament in North Aceh district last week approved the regulation, which will come into effect in a year, said lawmaker Fauzan Hamzah, adding that authorities were making “efforts to implement sharia law fully”. “Unmarried people sitting closely together on a motorcycle is clearly against Islamic sharia as it could lead to sinful acts,” Hamzah told AFP. Aceh, on the northern tip of Sumatra island, is the only province in the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country which is allowed to implement Islamic law, and gay sex, gambling and drinking alcohol are already punishable by caning. The province began imple-
A
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un arriving at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun in Pyongyang. Photo: Rodong Sinmun
North Korea executed 15 top officials so far this year NORTH KOREA HAS EXecuted 15 high-ranking government officials since the beginning of the year, South Korean intelligence officials said Wednesday (May 5). The condemned had criticised the regime, the Yonhap News Agency and television channels reported, citing members of the National Assembly who were briefed by intelligence officials. Among those put to death was the deputy forestry minister in January after he found fault with North Korea’s forestation plans, the lawmakers were quoted as saying. The intelligence off i-
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cials told the lawmakers in a closed-door session that the public executions were evidence of the “ruthless leadership style” of Kim Jong Un, who became leader of North Korea at the end of 2011 when his father, Kim Jong Il, died. In 2013, Kim Jong Un executed his uncle Jang Song Thaek, who had been considered the second most powerful person in North Korea. Jang was accused of treason. North Korea has been criticized for human rights violations under all three leaders of the Kim dynasty. Khaosod English
Next year, unmarried couples will no longer be able to sit on a motorbike together. Photo: Sachman75 menting sharia law after being granted special autonomy in 2001, an effort by the central government in Jakarta to quell a long-running separatist insurgency. The latest move to ban shared motorbike rides, which will affect more than 500,000 people on North Aceh, came after one city in Aceh in 2013 prohibited women from straddling male drivers on motorbikes, requiring that they ride sidesaddle instead.
The new regulation was the most eye-catching in a series of Islamic bylaws approved in North Aceh on Thursday (April 30), which also included a ban on live music performances and the separation of male and female students in school. The new rules will take effect in May 2016 after a one-year grace period. Hamzah did not say what punishments would be meted out to unmarried couples caught together on a motorbike.
He did list several punishments that could be implemented for all the new Islamic laws, which ranged from a formal reprimand to fines and people being expelled from their villages. “We will make efforts so that deeds which can lead to sin are eliminated gradually in North Aceh district,” he added. The provincial parliament in Aceh, as well as district parliaments, can pass their own Islamic bylaws. AFP
12 WORLD NEWS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
Med migrant crisis M
ore than half the nearly 6,000 mig r a nt s r e s c ue d in the Mediterranean last weekend arrived in Italy Monday (May 4) as aid workers warned of no end in sight to a “heartbreaking” crisis. A baby girl born on board the Italian navy patrol ship Bettica was among more than 3,000 asylum seekers and migrants who landed at ports in the south of mainland Italy and on the islands of Lampedusa and Sicily. The baby’s mother had gone into labour just before leaving Libya aboard one of four barely seaworthy boats whose occupants were rescued by the Bettica. Mother and baby were transferred to hospital on arrival and were reported to be doing well, the navy said. Not ever yone was so lucky, at least 10 migrants died, adding to an estimated total of more than 1,750 people who have perished in the waters between Libya and Italy since the start of this year. Last weekend’s surge in the number of boats leaving Libya was put down to the fine weather and calm sea
The rescued migrant boats were said to have been overcrowded like a “pack of sardines”. conditions and will have confirmed the fears of Italian officials who anticipate a record number of arrivals on their southern shores between now and September. Last year’s total of 170,000 was already unprecedented and current trends point to that figure being exceeded in 2015. Among the ships involved in rescue ops at the weekend was the Malta-based M.Y.
Phoenix, run jointly by private body Migrant Offshore Aid Station and Medecins Sans Frontieres/Doctors Without Borders. The Phoenix, on its first mission of the year, was involved in the rescue of more than 470 people between Saturday (May 2) and Monday morning (May 4), including several pregnant women, babies and a total of 45 children. Christopher Catrambone,
the American philanthropist who co-founded MOAS with his wife Regina, said he had been shocked by the condition of the people they discovered packed onto a fishing boat they assisted on Sunday afternoon (May 3). “The people were packed in so tightly that their legs had cramped and they struggled to move as we rescued them,” he said. MSF doctors treated migrants suffering from injuries sustained during beatings by people smugglers and others suffering from conditions including diabetes, dehydration and skin infections, as well as carrying out checks on the pregnant women. MSF’s Will Turner added: “The boat was absolutely crammed full. As the men, women and children we rescued curled up under blankets
to sleep, there wasn’t a centimetre to spare. The scale of this crisis is just heartbreaking. I wish we could do more.”
– Australia-EU talks – The migrants who landed in southern Italy will quickly be dispersed to reception centres across the country pending decisions on their future. Aid agencies say a large number of those attempting the Mediterranean crossing have legitimate claims to asylum in Europe as they are fleeing conflict or repression in places including Syria and Eritrea. In a rare example of conflict-wracked Libya attempting to stem the migrant flow, five boats which set off at the weekend were intercepted by the Libyan coastguard and sent to the city of Misrata, home to a detention centre
for migrants. Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott meanwhile revealed that his officials were talking to European Union counterparts about how to stop the flow of boats. However, the European Commission, the executive of the 28-nation EU, said that it was not aware of such talks and that Brussels would never adopt Australia’s model of turning back these boats. Australia has successfully stopped asylum-seeker boats from reaching the continent by deploying its navy to turn them back, effectively deterring other would-be migrants. The policy has proved controversial, however, with critics accusing the government of ignoring its international obligations on asylum and other human rights. People smugglers have taken advantage of the chaos gripping Libya since the 2011 uprising that toppled dictator Moamer Kadhafi. On April 19, some 750 migrants were killed when their trawler sank between Libya and southern Italy, sparking global outrage and demands for action. Four days later EU leaders tripled the bloc’s budget for patrols off Libya. EU leaders are now seeking UN Security Council approval for military action against smugglers. But rights groups have criticised Europe for focusing on patrols rather than providing asylum seekers with legal avenues to seek refuge. AFP
‘Devil worshipping’ haircuts reportedly banned in Iran HAIRSTYLES OF A SPIKY and unorthodox nature have reportedly been banned in Iran because they imply devilworship, while tattoos and other male bodily adornments are also being outlawed. Jagged haircuts have become fashionable among all strata of Iran’s youthful population in recent years, but have divided opinion and been deemed by the authorities as western and un-Islamic. “Devil worshipping hairstyles are now forbidden,” said Mostafa Govahi, the head of Iran's Barbers Union, cited by the ISNA news agency. “Any shop that cuts hair in the devil worshipping style will be harshly dealt with and their licence revoked,” he said, noting that if a busi-
The ban is blamed on illegal barbers. Photo by Diamondduste ness cut hair in such a style this will “violate the Islamic system's regulations”. As well as tattoos being banned, solarium treatments and the plucking of eyebrows – another rising trend among young Iranian males – will not be tolerated, the report said. Govahi blamed unauthorised barbers for offering the
spiky hairstyles and other treatments. “Usually the barber shops who do this do not have a licence. They have been identified and will be dealt with,” he said. The Barbers Union represents only male hairdressers in Iran, with female stylists having a separate trade organisation. Bangkok Post thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
BUSINESS NEWS 13
First-quarter tourist figures grow, thanks to the Chinese Alasdair Forbes execeditor@classactmedia.co.th
he tourist figures for the first quarter of 2015 show impovement over the same quarter of last year, with international passenger traffic at Phuket International Airport up by 2.82 per cent. The domestic traffic, which grew by just 3pc from 2013 to 2014, showed much more robust growth of 11pc this year. The figures include both Thais and foreigners arriving in and departing from Phuket on domestic flights. (The owner of the airport, Airports of Thailand, gives figures for arrivals and departures combined.) For the whole of Thailand, immigration recorded 2.65 million arrivals, compared with 2.28 million in the same quarter of 2014, up 16.2pc. There have been big changes, however, especially among the Chinese and Russian arrivals. With the Russian economy
T
in the trashcan, salary cuts and the plummeting in the value of the ruble, the number of arrivals from that country fell from just under 700,000 in the first quarter of 2014 to 324,000 in the same period this year – a drop of 54pc. Happily for Thailand’s tourism industry, the number of Chinese arrivals almost doubled from 1.037 million to 2.033 million, easily making up for the Russian shortfall of 376,000. Another highlight of the first-quarter figures was a 70pc jump in the number of tourists coming in from Malaysia, from 521,000 to 890,000. Although the numbers were more modest, Singapore showed the third-largest increase, of 46pc, from 146,000 arrivals to 212,000. Looking at the longer history, passenger traffic through Phuket International Airport grew from 2.48 million in the first quarter of 2011 to 3.59 million in the same quarter of this year, an increase of 49pc.
Passenger traffic at Phuket Airport International arrivals + departures, Jan-Mar
Despite the still punch-drunk world economy and Russian woes, along with Thailand’s political violence followed by the coup almost a year ago, first-quarter passenger traffic at Phuket International Airport has just kept on growing
Passenger traffic at Phuket Airport Domestic arrivals + departures, Jan-Mar
While Russian numbers crashed, the number of Chinese tourists almost doubled and Malaysian numbers also grew.
AirAsia to link Bangkok with Surin TH A I A I R ASI A IS TO launch a new city transfer service, starting May 14, that extends the reach of the daily Bangkok-Buri Ram flight to Surin, through a connecting bus service. Commercial director, Santisuk Klongchaiya, said Thai AirAsia’s objective is to create a network that offers convenience through reliable land or ferry transfer services that extend the reach of air services. “After launching several City Transfer routes, the airline has gained strong feedback from both local and foreign travellers who appreciate the
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Apart from being famed for its elephants, Surin is also home to many Khmer ruins. Photo: Ddalbiez option of easy travel.” The latest City Transfer extends the Don Mueang-Buri Ram flight to Surin via a onehour shuttle bus service. AirAsia already has bus/
boat transfers to eight islands – Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lipe, Koh Ngai, Koh Yao Noi and Koh Tao and bus transfers to Pai (via Chiang Mai), Sukhothai (via Phitsanulok), Mahasarakam (via Khon Kaen or Roi Et), Kalasin (via Khon Kaen), Mukdahan (via Nakhon Phanom), Kanom (via Nakhon Sri Thammarat), and Khao Lak (via Krabi). Meanwhile, AirAsia X celebrated its inaugural flight from Don Mueang to Sapporo on May 1 with a 100pc load factor of 377 passengers on the Airbus A330-300.
14 WEIRD NEWS
THE BIG LIST Pollution Paradise Humans take mother nature for granted and while it’s convenient to turn a blind eye to our environment, these problems don’t simply go away. Here are some examples of what can happen.
Ahvaz, Iran: According to the World Health Organisation, the Iranian city of Ahvaz – home to 1.2 million people – is the most polluted city in the world in terms of air quality. In fact, according to scientists, the air quality in Ahvaz is nearly three times worse than that of Beijing. Dust storms only compound the problem and mixes with the exhaust fumes that already exists in the toxic air, creating the highest count of small airborne particles anywhere in the world. Things were at its worst in 2009 when the WHO discovered that there were 19 times more airborne particles than the acceptable level of pollution in an urban area, all of which can cause asthma, heart disease and lung cancer. Linfen, China: A very close second is Linfen, a city in Shanxi province of southern China and home to 3 million people. The city is surrounded by hills upon which there are many coal mines – both legal and illegal – and the smell of burning coal wafts through the air. It is said that the pollution is so great that those who hang their laundry outside will find their clothes black before they dry. According to various news reports, the mix of coal burning power plants and farmers that dump pesticides on crops have greatly affected the water and air quality of the city. Lake Karachay, Russia: Eastern Russia is home to Lake Karachay, which is located in the Ural Mountains and was once a nuclear weapons dumping ground for the Soviet Union. Mayak, the country’s biggest nuclear facility, was secretly built in the 1940s next to the lake and was not opened to the public until 1992. During that time, there were several nuclear meltdowns which made its way to the water. According to scientists, a lethal dose of radiation could be given with just a 30-90 minute stay in the area. Vapi, India: The groundwater of this city in southern India has the highest levels of mercury in its groundwater of anywhere in the world, a whopping 96 times above safety levels, according to the WHO. It doesn’t help that it’s home to a large portion of the country’s industrial sites, including chemical plants, pharmaceutical companies, and rubbers workshops. In addition, Vapi also has high levels of heavy metals in it’s air and local produce. La Oroya, Peru: With 99 per cent of its children having high levels of lead in their blood, the devastating affects of mining and processing operations have made this Southern American town one of the most polluted in the world. The problems began in 1922 when a metal smelter, the American-owned Doe Run Corportation, built their factories in the town. The Peruvian government has been taken to court for crimes against humanity by environmental organisations. La Oroya’s soil will continue to have three times the amount of acceptable lead levels for centuries to come, according to the WHO.
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
Parents experience FOMO on internet speak f you tell your mum she’s fleek, she probably won’t get the compliment – social media is driving a rapid evolution of the English language that is leaving parents baffled, a study suggested Friday (May 1). A survey of 2,000 British parents found that 86 per cent think teenagers speak an entirely different language on social media and messaging. The most baffling word was fleek, meaning looking good, followed by FOMO (fear of missing out), Bae (a term of affection) and ICYMI (in case you missed it). By contrast, parents who
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still use text abbreviations are sadly behind with the times. The study by mobile phone company Samsung suggested that TXT (meaning text), GR8
(great), M8 (mate) and BRB (be right back) are now defunct as far as young people are concerned. “The limitation of charac-
ters on old handsets were a key factor in the rise of acronyms in text messaging such as TXT, GR8 and M8,” said Professor John Sutherland, an expert in modern English literature at University College London. “However, technological evolution has meant that these words are now effectively extinct from the text speak language and are seen as ‘antique text speak’.” Sutherland highlighted the increasing popularity of emoticons in messaging, adding: “In the future less words and letters will be used in messaging as pictures and icons take over the text speak language.” AFP
Chinese erection .... of building takes 19 days THE 57 STORY SKYSCRAPer that now sits in the middle of the skyline of the Chinese city of Changsha was erected in a mind-boggling 19 days, according to the local construction company that built the thing. Broad Sustainable Building Co, a Chinese construction company, claims that the new Mini Sky City was erected over two spurts with a break in-between for winter. At a rate of three floors per day with the help 1,200 workers. Officials at the company claim that the glass-and-steel building in Hunan province is safe and can even withstand earthquakes. “With the t raditional method, they have to bulid a skyscraper brick by brick, but with our method, we just need to assemble the blocks,” said Chen xiangqian, an engineer at the company. The method has been used
Man apologises after hanging up twice on pope in buildings in Europe and the United States, according to reports. The Mini Sky City in Changsha includes 800 apartments, 19 atriums, and office space for 4,000 people. Company officials say that the first 20 floors were completed last year with the remaining 37 floors built from January 31 to February 17 earlier this year. A timelapse video of the construction of the building is currently on the video-sharing website YouTube: https://youtu. be/PyxwgLYbAk0.
AN ITALIAN MAN HUNG the phone up on Pope Francis twice thinking he was being pranked, but later apologised to him personally for his error, Vatican newspaper l’Osservatore Romano reported last Thursday (April 30). The pontiff, who often contacts strangers who write to him or whose problems he hears about, called Franco Rabuffi last week to comfort him as he was sick. Rabuffi disconnected the call twice thinking the
call was a hoax. When the pope rang back a third time, Rabuffi finally took him seriously. “I was speechless but Francis came to my rescue, saying that what had happened was funny,” he told the Vatican newspaper. Rabuffi, along with his wife, appeared before the pope during the Vatican’s general audience on Wednesday (April 29) and personally apologised for his mistake. AFP
Sewage creates foamy mess on Indian lake THERE’S A FROTHY, TOXIC problem on the lake of a town in India. Over 500 million litres of unstreated sewage seeps into the small lake in the Indian suburb of Varthur every single day, creating a foamy, smelly mess for locals as it overflows onto the roads. “This is a mix of detergent, urine and fecal matter,” said Elan Kulandaivelu, a local who lives close to the now toxic body of water. “It is as filthy as it gets. And this in an area that is one of the largest revenue generators in the country, the Whitefield Industrial Area.”
It gets even worse. The Indian Institute of Science have relayed that there is a rise in cancer and kidneyrelated diseases among locals
who live close to the lake and the underground water sources are contaminated by the toxic, polluted water. “The smell is an indication
that it is hydrogen sulfate and the foam is not because of any detergent soap but due to the phosphate getting into the lake. The urine content is so high that the phosphate in the urine turns into the foam,” said MA Khan, a principal at a local school. Still, local officials are not as worried as the residents. Dr Vaman Acharya, chairperson of Bengaluru state’s Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said that the froth is not a cause for worry and that it’s only about the “bad smell”, he told local media. thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
Student journos bag Amnesty awards
17
Looking back at snooker, dart stars
20
ENDANGERED LANDSCAPES
Southerners unite against industrialisation > Page 18
Lao Liang Ph island. Photo: Lerdsuwa
LOOKING FOR THE BEST
PROPERTY DEALS IN PHUKET *FIND THEM ON PAGE 27 @thephuketnews
16 HEALTH
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
The essential carbon issue Chef Barry editor@classactmedia.co.th
If you drink fresh watermelon juice, which has been juiced using the seeds and rind, it will have great benefits for your kidneys and digestive system.
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elcome to part one of three, where Chef Barry explains the importance of the element of carbon in soil, how essential it is for all life, why we are losing it, how it affects earth, and what possible solutions there may be. 100 years ago everything living and growing on earth was organic. Just 30 years ago Phuket, the largest island in the Kingdom, was 100 per cent organic in agriculture. Why is it so difficult to find organic safe clean foods anywhere today? Over recent years, a lot of foods have started to heavily include Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) in their ingredients.
So what does this mean to to live in challenging times where we are unsure about what we are putting into our body and what effects these types of food are having on us long term? As of yet, no longterm human tests or controlled studies have been conducted. But animal testing results are dismal and very alarming, especially in independent studies. Mice for example were found to have developed large tumours all over their bodies from GMO contaminated produce. This information can be found all over Facebook. The biotech industry understands that labelling is their marketing death nail, so they oppose any new law amendments to be passed, despite the fact that the biotech executives and staff refuse to eat their own products in their own cafeteria meals. It is said that the Standard American Diet (SAD) includes around 80 per cent unlabelled GMOs.
What would this 80 per cent look like?
You will find it in convenience and grocery stores worldwide. GMO is disguised in our foods and the following groups of products will help you to decide what is safe and right
for your health. 1- Processed foods from cans, plastic containers and boxed goods are loaded with GMOs and most likely unlabelled. The key ingredients to look out for (yes, I know this may be shocking to many of you) are: A- Sugar (from GMO sugar beets). B- Hydrogenated oils or partially hydrogenated canola oil, corn and soybean oils. C- Conventional meats that are grain fed. The feed is from GMO crops that goes into the live stock. D- Conventional dairy products. Again, the animal is fed with a GMO feed and routinely fed antibiotic therapy, far more than on the human population. Antibiotic therapy is used to keep these suffering animals alive long enough, otherwise their artificial closed confinement would have drastic effects on them. The animals grow three times faster than free range grass fed animals, in order to get them into slaughter houses quicker for increased profits for the livestock industry. Phuket does not have any organic pastured free range grass fed beef anywhere at retail level, as far as I’m aware.
Do you really know what is in your food?
What most people don’t understand is the red colour in the meat sold over the counter is not red at all, but in fact a chemical dye which is injected into the meat for fetching higher sales prices from the consumer. The real colour of dead meat after the animal has been slaughtered is brown grey. Put some red meat out for a couple of hours and the meat will turn back into its original colour. The seafood industry often does the same thing to farm raised salmon to also fetch higher prices.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR HOLISTIC CHEF BARRY AKA BARRY ANDERSON Barry is an American living in Phuket. Having suffered from obesity in the past, Chef Barry has learned the culinary arts of working with foods from nature and has dropped more than 100 pounds of excess weight. Over 20 years Barry conducted extensive research about the weight loss industry. Barry lives with his Thai family at the Garden Villa Phuket Good Earth Health Residence. Visit https://flic.kr/ps/QgogH to see original delicious health recipes.
You wont see this problem in wild salmon and free range organic meats, as their true colour will show. We understand that checking the produce ingredients is a pain as well as time consuming, and not convenient to your life style, but if you are eating certain dairy and meat, then it is in your best health interest to try and ensure you are eating safe produce. Perhaps check online and contact the food companies, or even send out an email inquiry.
A little tip:
If you drink fresh watermelon juice, which has been juiced using the seeds and rind, it will have great benefits for your kidneys and digestive system. When it comes to food supply, ignorance is not bliss. You literally are what you eat and the proof is in the pudding, particularly when obesity and other related diseases are increasing all over the world today. The only safe way to be GMO free is to buy local organic produce and to grow it in your own garden using open pollinated organic heirloom seeds, preferably from the country that you live in.
So what is at stake here for our health and existence on planet earth?
Top soil is supposed to give us three dozen plus minerals and trace minerals are now missing because of the decision to support and implement chemically and genetically intensive factory farming methods. These methods have detrimental ramifications on our intestinal health that in fact represent about 80 per cent of our immune system. The lost carbon in our once fertile top soil, is now turning into a waste land of desertification overtime. Using synthetic chemicals to artificially induce faster growth of plants three times faster than organic, is purely for short term economic gains and a quick profit for the industrialised chemical fertiliser industry, and other related industries. We are losing the carbon element from our top soil that sustains all life. We can bring this lost element back to Phuket with particular organised ways and bare in mind, we are only talking about four inches of layered top soil to claim organic status on this island. Tune in again in a couple weeks to find out more about what Chef Barry has to say about organic and genetically modified foods. I also recommend you read “Fuel for the Body”, an international best seller written by Lynnette. Holistic Chef Barry is the team captain for Thailand in the upcoming Phuket cyclefest tour on July 5, 2015, named “Fuel for the Body Tours”, to raise more awareness for the Thai organic farming community. thephuketnews
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EDUCATION 17
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
Get creative with an Aussie scholarship
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HeadStart shines in amnesty award
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mnesty International is a non-governmental organisation dedicated to protecting the rights of people around the world. They are one of the most significant human rights organisations, with more than seven million followers and supporters. After the success of last year’s ‘Say it Rights: Human Rights Speech Contest’, Amnesty International Thailand presented another exciting competition, known as the ‘2014-15 Young Journalist of the Year Award’. Amnesty International has always encouraged young people to get involved in the cause and journalism plays a key role in exposing human
rights abuses. The aim of competitions such as these is to inspire young writers to continue the fight against human rights abuses. Students from 10 international schools across Thailand were required to write an article about one key issue. There were two categories: Under 18 and Under 14. HeadStart International School is pleased to announce that Thanyaporn Tantitakorn (Year 11) received third place in the under 18 category and Azra Anderson (Year 8) received fifth place in the under 14 category. Hami Song (Y11) and Nyke van der Laan (Y8) were also finalists. Congratulations to all participants involved in an outstanding result for Headstart International School!
Local school announces new head boys and girls
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ast week, British International School, Phuket (BISP) announced its new Head Students Fransiska Greene and Nicolas Varnier, and new Deputy Head Students Natchongrat ‘Oy’ Terdkiatkhachorn and Archie Plunkett. Headmaster Neil Richards said, “We wish them every success.” For more information on studying at BISP, visit bisphuket.ac.th
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hai scholars, researchers, students and professionals are encouraged to apply for the 2016 Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships. The Australian Government’s internationally competitive, merit-based scholarships and fellowships provide opportunities for citizens around the world to undertake study, research and professional development in Australia. The Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships promote leadership, research and academic excellence and build links between Australia and the region. The programme is open to all fields of study. There is no age limit for applicants.
Applications are open in four categories: Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship Endeavour Research Fellowship Endeavour Vocational
Education and Training Scholarship Endeavour Executive Fellowship Since the programme’s inception in 2007, around 150 Thai scholars have been granted Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships. The Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships also provide opportunities for Australians to undertake research and professional development in Thailand. The programme complements the Australian Government’s New Colombo Plan which is helping to foster deeper relationships with the IndoPacific region. Applications for the 2016 programme close on Tuesday June 30, 2015. Thai applicants should direct questions to aei.bkk@dfat.gov.au For more information visit https://internationaleducation.gov.au/endeavour
18 ENVIRONMENT
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
Pak Bara critics undaunted by S44 Anchalee Kongrut prapaik@bangkokpost.co.th
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espite the government's threat to use the draconian Section 44 law in pushing the Pak Bara deep-sea port project in Satun, southern people and a network of conservation groups are undaunted, ready for a major fight. They shrugged off a call by Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha that they stop opposing the project and cooperate with the government's megaproject. The Pak Bara project adds to the list of megaprojects which makes the southern region a new hot spot for the country's industrialisation. Others include the Songkhla-Satun land bridge to create a new logistics route from the Indian Ocean to the Gulf of Thailand, as well as the expansion of petrochemical and heavy industries on the coast of the Andaman Sea, and a plan to build a coal-fired power plant and a coal-transporting pier in Krabi. These projects, however, come with a high environmental cost. The Pak Bara project requires the government to revoke 4,000 rai of land in Patra Marine National Park, and also stands to have an irreversible impact on marine ecology in Tarutao Marine National Park, which is now a tourist magnet. Likewise, the coal-fired power plant plan poses a threat to the Krabi tourism industry which depends on pristine marine conditions.
Residents of Pak Bara and their supporters insist that the Satun district is the wrong place to build a giant seaport, largely because of the damage to the environment that would result. Photo : fotounited
Satun residents want to protect the beauty of the Petra Islands from industrialisation. Photo: Lerdsuwa In addition, the project will seriously harm the livelihoods of local people, especially small-scale fishermen. The resources-rich southerners have much experience in opposing top-down megaprojects, starting with the ThaiMalaysian gas pipeline in Songkhla province 12 years ago. The Ban Krut and Bo Nok power plants in Prachuap Khiri Khan were eventually scrapped following local resistance. It is believed the decision to invoke Section 44 in the Pak Bara case is to suppress potential opponents. "People are not afraid of Section 44 since they know they are fighting to protect natural resources, and it has nothing to do with politics. They do not belong to any colour group," said Sakkamon Seangdara, an activist working
with the Save Andaman group which supports Krabi's campaign against the coal-fired plant. Residents and a network of activists in the southern provinces plan a meeting in the coming weeks to discuss a strategy to deal with the junta and how to stop these projects. Street protests, however, have already been ruled out. "The strategy is to mobilise outside pressure to oppose the project. You will see southerners and activists making friends and developing communication channels with the middle class in Bangkok, working with tourism businesses and hotels which are going to be affected by those projects," Mr Sakkamon said. But the villagers, he said, will not rule out obstructing the project. For example, they are working on plans to block environment consultancies from
coming to study or survey the designated area. Soft and diplomatic tactics are the name of the game. Art is one channel to win friends. Pak Bara villagers last year invited artists to take photos and paint their hometowns for an art exhibition "Pak Bara Paradiso". The event took place last month. The presence of armed soldiers at the exhibition actually helped many city people who have never heard of the project learn about its threat to the Andaman Sea. ... Their message to the government is simple:"The southern villagers must determine our own destiny." To read the full story, check out the Life Section of The Bangkok Post website.
Hotels sustain eco standard
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arthCheck, the world’s leading sustainable travel and tourism organization has certified Banyan Tree Phuket and Angsana Laguna Phuket, the flagship properties of Banyan Tree and Angsana Hotels & Resorts successfully achieved Silver EarthCheck Certification from March 2015. The achievement follows on from the hotels garnering of Bronze Certification status just last year, which they were awarded together with five other business units within Laguna Phuket, as part of the precinct of Laguna Phuket’s sustainability efforts. To achieve EarthCheck
Silver Certification, the businesses are required to have a sustainable policy in place and to implement an environmental action plan for proper monitoring and measurements on key performance areas. Banyan Tree Phuket a nd A n g sa n a L a g u n a
Phuket, luxury rooms and villas located in Bangtao beach, Phuket, first joined EarthCheck in 2012 through the initiative of the Banyan Tree Group to maintain its commitment to the highest level of sustainable operations – building a better society for all while integrating green practices into the operations. Building on existing sustainability campaigns, the two Phuket hotels continue to put in place a number of initiatives to engage guests, associates and the local community, such as guest room and office energy conservation, recycling of materials, maintenance of an organic farm, supporting local orphanages and elderly homes and regular tree planting. Read the full version on thephuketnews.com thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
A weekend in Jakarta Markets, museums, and curries galore
TRAVEL 19
Dalia Hilmi editor1@classactmedia.co.th
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fter my exhilarating first taste of Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, which is located on Java (the largest of 18,307 islands in the Indonesian archipelago), I found the city to be full of surprises. Admittedly, I was initially hesitant to visit. I had heard about the sweltering heat, the bombardment of exhaust from vehicles channelling themselves from twelve lanes into four, as well as the unpleasant number of tourists in the city. But, be that as it may, I soon got used to the chaotic lifestyle and found myself enjoying the Indonesian culture. The only negative memory I have was the infamous traffic. A journey from the airport which should have taken 30 minutes, took around two hours. Not ideal after having already spent the day on two planes. Never the less, it was a journey that was worth the wait. Once we finally arrived at the The Millennium Hotel Sirih, located right in the heart of Jakarta, we relaxed and started to enjoy the buzzing surroundings. Not only were we upgraded to club level rooms, but the hotel staff were really friendly and attended to our every need. The following morning, we headed down for some breakfast. The buffet appeared to be a typical Indonesian selection of curries, meats and rice. In that way it was very similar to some local Thai dishes. With a little help and advice from the hotel staff, we made our way to the famous local Tanah Abang Textile Market. It was a large indoor market of local clothing and jewellery, mostly aimed towards women. You could find just about anything, although it was evident that we were the only tourists there. We then took a long walk along on the western side of Merdeka Square, where the National Museum, built in 1862, is located. This museum is definitely the one museum in the city that’s an essential visit. The neo-classical colonial structure has an enormous collection. Around the open courtyard is some magnificent statuary including a colossal 4.5m stone image of a Bhairawa king from Rambahan in Sumatra, who is shown trampling on human skulls. As we walked through the ethnology section, we were blown away by the impressive @thephuketnews
Kawah Putih Lake
The National Museum delicacies on display. There was a collection of Dayak puppets and wooden statues from Nias bearing beards (a sign of wisdom) as well as some beautiful textiles. The collection of Balinese tribal masks and jewellery were stunning, and the museum included historical fascinating information to go along with it. It left me wanting to see more of Indonesia in general. Over in the spacious new wing there are four floors with sections devoted to the origin of mankind in Indonesia. I was particularly impressed with the display of gold treasures from Candi Brahu in Central Java, which featured unique glittering necklaces, armbands and other authentic jewels. Along with the swanky shopping malls scattered around the city, there were also local boutiques located on every corner. Here you could find handmade dresses for women and shirts for men, all beautifully designed. It seemed very clear, that despite the heavy traffic and chaos, there were hidden gems all over the city. On our last day, we decided to drive
two and a half hours out of the city and head to Bandung, the capital of West Java. The city lies on a river basin surrounded by volcanic mountains. We drove to Kawah Putih, a striking crater lake and tourist spot in a volcanic crater about 50km south of Bandung. The lake is 2,430 metres above sea level so the local climate is often quite chilly, which made a brisk change from the humidity of Jakarta. We drove through the mountains and discovered pleasant local villages, as well as beautiful tea and rice farms.
The views were magnificent and it was a delightful break from the crowds of the city. On our way back, we stopped off at a local restaurant which was a family run business. They served us an array of local Indonesian delicacies, including rice surrounded by meat and vegetables and chicken and beef curries. I found Jakarta was full of friendly optimistic faces, fascinating historical landmarks and it was a great weekend destination. From the vibrant colourful food, to the positive people, to the markets, there were plenty of enjoyable things to do.
20 ENTERTAINMENT
The glory days of pub games
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
Champions and legends of the darts and snooker world
David Brook editor@classactmedia.co.th
I have never achieved such heights of glory but just happen to know some players who have.
Top right: Willie Thorne and Steve Beaton.
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he two highest single game pinnacles of achievement in darts and snooker are the nine dart game and the 147 snooker break. Both of these have a very special meaning for me. No, I have never achieved such heights of glory myself but just happen to know some players who have. On April 23 1983, watched by millions on television, Cliff Thorburn became the first player to make a 147 break in the World Championship at The Crucible, Sheffield. Some 18 months later, on October 13 1984, John Lowe hit the first televised nine dart finish at the World Matchplay Championship. In subsequent years I was to play both John and Cliff, but it was not at the oche or on the green baize that we teamed up but rather on the golf course, in The Howard Keel Classic. And in 1985, my Brewery signed a sponsorship with John Lowe that was to last a record number of years. Both were World Champions. “The Grinder” Thorburn was crowned World Champion in 1980 and World Number 1 the following year. “Old Stoneface” Lowe won the World Championship in three different decades – 1979, 1987 and 1993 (the first player ever to do so) and a plethora of titles and achievements in a career spanning almost 50 years. John was runner up to Leighton Rees in the first
BDO Darts Championship in 1978. But it was another 14 years before another future darts Champion made his debut. Coventry’s Steve Beaton made his World Championship debut in 1992. In 1993 he achieved a huge upset win over the tournament favourite and former world champion, Dennis Priestley, and beat another former world champion Bob Anderson before losing in the semi-final to Alan Warriner. Steve became a full-time professional in 1993 and also won the prestigious Winmau World Masters. The World Professional Darts Championship followed in 1996 and he is currently ranked World 23. Nicknamed “The Bronze Adonis”, Steve is one of the best known faces in darts currently. And without doubt one of the best known faces in the world of snooker is Leicester born Willie Thorne, who turned pro in 1975, reached world ranking 7 in 1987, and was a prolific century
break maker (over 145 in his pro career). Willie also made 147 snooker history in the 1987 Tennents UK Championship when he became the first player to make a maximum break in the tournament. Willie somewhat ironically went on to meet and beat Cliff Thorburn in the Quarter finals. Willie and Cliff faced each other on several occasions; perhaps most notably in the 1985 Mercantile Classic when Thorne clinched the event to record the only ranking tournament win of his career. Some years later Thorne also won the World Seniors Masters in 2000, again beating Thorburn in the final. Willie has become a popular senior character in the game, commentating on snooker for television and featuring in the popular song “Snooker Loopy”, written and performed by Chas & Dave. Is that a cue for a song ?
Former world champion Dennis Priestley with another former world champion Bob Anderson.
thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
PETS 21
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
SOI DOG foundation seeks new adopters
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oi Dog Foundation are looking for more people to adopt and care for the dogs currently at the facility in Thalang. Soi Dog offers ongoing support and follow-ups with all adopters for up to four months initially after the pet leaves the shelter. All the animals have been vaccinated and sterilised.
to remember what happened when those men caught me. I was locked in a cage with other dogs crying in pain. I couldn’t breathe properly there were so many of us in one cage. I am sorry to say another dog died in my cage – she gave up the will to live and stopped breathing. I am grateful to the people who stopped our truck and let us out. Thank you Soi Dog supporters for rescuing me. I am friendly with people and love lots of attention.
lutely horrific time. Stolen from my happy life and ripped away from my family and friends. I am a pretty girl, friendly, playful and energetic. I am looking for my forever family to love and care for me. I have heard many great things about the USA, Canada, the UK and Europe and am not fussy – I will like to live in any one of these places.
Meet Lindsey: Meet Yola:
Rescued from the illegal dog meat trade. My name is Yola. I am a four- year-old female looking for my forever home. I have been through a horrific time. Stolen away from my carefree life, I don’t want
Meet Bella:
Rescued from the dog meat trade. My name is Bella and I am three years old. I have been through an abso-
Found on the streets alone. I am one year and four months old and have been living at Soi Dog for one year now. I was found on the streets alone and had a terrible cough, weeping eyes and scabs on my skin. It is difficult enough to survive on the streets as a young pup, but when you are sick it is even harder.
The vets at Soi Dog are great. They made me well again. Now I live in a run with 19 other dogs. It is a nice run, with trees, plants and sheltered places to sit. I am friendly and would do so well in the real world, where I could go on lovely long walks with my new clan. I have heard that lots of dogs are getting adopted from Soi Dog at the moment and it exciting for all of us here! I do hope it is my turn soon. I am a boisterous and playful girl, now that I feel safe in the walls of the shelter. I have been able to flourish and enjoy myself like a young dog should. I can be bossy amongst my pack but only because I like to have fun and am still a young, energetic girl. Still, the shelter is not a place for a dog to live forever. It is a sanctuary to nurture in times of need, but I should not have to live here all my life. Are you the family I’m waiting for? For more information on adopting, visit www.soidog.org/en
Backyard feeders invite aggressive bird breeds: study
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ackyard bird feeders may ruffle some feathers, attracting aggressive breeds like house sparrows and doves while discouraging native species that eat insects and nectar, researchers said Monday (May 4). The experiment described in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, set out to study how putting out seeds and bread may influence what kinds of birds inhabit certain areas,
@thephuketnews
and if the hobby alters the birds’ natural balance. “Bird feeding is happening on such a massive scale globally – it is essentially a worldwide experiment,” said lead author Josie Galbraith, a researcher at the Centre for Biodiversity and Biosecurity at the University of Auckland. For a year and a half, scientists studied 23 residential gardens in Auckland, New Zealand. Eleven of
the gardens contained bird feeders that were refilled daily with bread and seeds. The other 12 had no feeding stations for birds. Scientists documented bird sightings with a total of 597 surveys that spanned more than 18,000 birds of 33 species. They found that backyard feeders tended to favor non-native omnivores such as house sparrows and spotted doves, as well as blackbirds and common myna.
“During experimental feeding, the feeding gardens had 2.4 times more house sparrows and 3.6 times more spotted doves – both introduced species – than nonfeeding gardens,” said the study. Homes with newly installed feeders saw an increase in birds flocking to the feeder and that seed and bread was often gone in under two hours. The effects were temporary and reversible once feeders were removed.
“We aren’t suggesting feeding should stop – it may actually be very important for urban-dwelling people as it gives them a connection with nature, which in itself has many benefits,” Galbraith said. “We should be asking how we can encourage a diverse array of birds into our urban areas instead. Something everyone can do is create bird-friendly gardens by planting suitable trees and providing a water source.” AFP
22 ISLAND SCENE
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
The winning Band “Seven Signs”
BATTLE OF THE YOUNG BANDS Hard Rock Cafe Phuket was the host venue for the Battle of the Young Bands 2015 competition last Saturday (May 2). There were seven bands who entered the competition with the winners being Thai Rock Band “Seven Signs”.
Katarina Bonér and Debbie Dionysius
Executives of Saxophone Pub & Restaurant : Sunthorn Singmanee, Apimook Charoenkij, Wachara Jaru-Areeyanon and Sakol Wongkampoo.
MUSIC, FOOD AND MORE AS SAXOPHONE OPENS DOORS With the flair of a jazz concert and Cirque du Soleil-style show, Saxophone Pub & Restaurant officially opened its doors last Saturday, May 2. Located near the Nimit Traffic Circle (or seahorses circle) in Phuket Town, the establishment serves up Thai/ international cuisine and is a new place to enjoy live jazz with a Thai kick! thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
ISLAND SCENE 23
,
FUTSAL FAN FEVER AT PHUKET UNITED MATCH Fans came out in full force for the island’s professional five-a-side football squad, Phuket United, as they took on Siam Navy on Sunday, May 3, at the Saphan Hin Sports Centre in Phuket Town. Full story on page 37.
SOUL OF PHUKET MUSIC AT INT’L JAZZ DAY FEST Dozens of local and international musicians graced the stage outside of Music Matter near Ocean Mall in Phuket Town to mark the 4th Edition of Phuket UNESCO International Jazz Day on April 30. The event was part of a three-day series of music events all over Phuket Town!
Kayley So and Atthawut Kumpitak from HK Express
MEDIA HEAD TO HONG KONG Hong Kong’s low-fare airline HK Express invited Phuket media to take part in a familiarisation trip and explore Hong Kong. Stay tuned for story. @thephuketnews
24 EVENTS
FRI
8 MAY
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM steps away from the Kamala beach on Kamala’s “Millionaires Mile” Road. Authentic Thai taste since 1989, White Orchid would like to welcome everyone to join “Stereo BBQ” which happens every Friday for B350. Here you can enjoy the little things in life with great food, good music & a fashion market from 5 pm - 10 pm. For table reservations please call 081- 8929757 And visit our Facebook page: White Orchid Kamala.
on selected beverages from 5.30-6.30pm everyday. Located at Vanilla Sky Bar, Cape Sienna Hotel, Kamala 076-337300.
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
per person for brunch only and THB 2,600++ including free flow selected beverages. 12.30 pm to 3.30pm every Saturday, Reservations, dining@katarocks.com, 076 370 777.
Indian Curry Night on Fridays
POP UP AT BLISS - 8 MAY 2015 The ‘Pop Up’ craze is making its way around the world and the next stop is in Phuket. Help build the buzz ‘Thai-Style’ at Bliss Beach Club. 12 of the island’s hottest restaurants will Pop Up at Bliss Beach Club on 8th May in support of Phuket Has Been Good To Us! Pop by and taste delicacies from the award-winning chefs of Bliss, Aziamendi at Iniala, Higher, Breeze at Cape Yamu, SALA, Metzos at Outrigger, Hana, Paresa, Anantara Phuket Layan Resort & Spa, Kata Rocks, Sushi Paradise and Double Tree by Hilton. Andaman Wine Club, BB&B, Two Tales, Chalong Bay and Wine Gallery will be providing the free flowing beverages!, info@phukethasbeengoodtous.org, 076 278 146. Media sponsorship proudly provided by Class Act Media.
Mussels night @ Shaker 1.2 Kg mussels served with French Fries Your choice, Your style: Nature, mariniere, provencale, garlic & cream or Thai style Reservation recommended 295 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.
Come to Navrang Mahal in Karon Sea Sands Resort & Spa for an authentic Indian Feast every Friday in Karon Beach. Try out our delicious naans, mutton vindaloo, chicken tandoori, dal makhini, butter chicken, samosas, lassis and many more mouth-watering dishes. For only B499 and special reduced prices on drinks, 076-286464 Ext 4.
SAT
9 MAY
Kata Rocks is setting up a giant outdoor movie theatre on its poolside terrace how cool is that? The American surf crime movie, Point Break (1991) starring Patrick Swayze and Keanu Reeves will launch the series on Friday 1 May at 7:00pm.There’s comfy seating under the stars from 250 baht (depending on seating tier, F&B not included), homemade cinema popcorns, gourmet hot dogs, nachos, ice cream and refreshing drinks. Kata Rocks ‘Movies on the Terrace’ will become a Phuket favourite that features classic cult films on the first Friday of every month. Contact dining@katarocks.com or 076 370 777 for complete details.
SUN
10 MAY
Beef, Pork & Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, Fried mushrooms, Grilled Tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding – Roasted Potatoes, Mashed Potatoes – Gravey, Mushroom sauce, Mint Sauce. Reservation Recommended 350 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.
BURLESQUE
Suk Singpatong + Sitnumnoi
No body does Burlesque better than the Queen of Les Diables. Join her and her Princesses for a night of debauchery, dance and delight! Book your tickets now - 081 935 0454 Peter or 089 481 7852 K. Toon. lesdiablesphuket.com
Every Saturday night, Num Noi Singpatong, the head trainer and owner of Singpatong + Sitnumnoi gym in Patong Beach, hosts an elite fight series “Suk Singpatong + Sitnumnoi Saturday fight night” at Patong Boxing Stadium (Sai Nam Yen Road), where top international and Thai fighters compete. Visit pattongboxingstadium.com for more info. Contact 087 628 2719. Proudly supported by Class Act Media. Remark: Free transportation in Patong, Karon, Kata areas when requested in advance. Proudly supported by Class Act Media.
The competition at 9pm Expat Sports Bar at the Expat Hotel Soi Taipan Patong. See map at www.expathotel.com
Time 8pm, Expat Sports Bar, Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www.expatsportsbar.com
All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet
Friday Night Movie On The Terrace
Pool Competition at Expat Sports Bar
BBQ at Expat Hotel
Phuket FC vs Tobacco FC At Surakul Stadium., Starts at 7 pm., Proudly supported by Class Act Media.
Happy Fridays on the Boardwalk at RPM Thai Sunday Brunch at DoubleTree Phuket
Contact Jay Address : The Boardwalk Royal Phuket Marina, 076 360 811.
FRIDAYS WINE & TAPAS
Stereo BBQ at White Orchid Kamala White Orchid Restaurant is located just
Imagine yourself sitting 50 metres above sea level and gazing out over an amazing sunset while sipping on a Ginger & Lemongrass Martini and enjoying the unique sophisticated city lifestyle ambiance of Phuket. Every Friday ‘All you can Eat’ Tapas, with free flow of selected beverages at B1,390 net from 7 – 10pm. Get 30 per cent discount
SATURDAY CHILL OUT BRUNCH Every Saturday enjoy a selection of oysters and other treats in the bar before sitting down to a long lazy shared family style brunch. Chef Steve will be serving up an ever changing brunch menu followed by live chill out beats poolside to take you through to sunset. THB 1600++
Every Sunday enjoy a wide selection of Thai delicacies during the Thai Sunday Brunch at DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Phuket - Surin Beach. Various action stations, extensive salad bar, tropical fresh fruits, plenty of desserts and unlimited soft drinks, coffee and tea for only THB 350 net per person. Children aged 7-12 at THB 175 net. This includes free access to our swimming facilities! 076 303 300.
thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
SUN
EVENTS 25
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
10 MAY
Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice of either roast beef, chicken, loin of pork or leg of lamb served with roast and boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Only B320 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See otools-phuket.com
Choice of Sauces Reservation recommended 295 baht P.P., shakersphuket@ gmail.com, 081 891 4381.
Toastmasters Phuket Looking to develop speaking and leadership skills? Ignite your career? Join Toastmasters Phuket and start making yourself a leader today! Invitation only. Contact joannetoastmasters@gmail.com for more info, facebook.com/ToastmastersPhuket
WED
13 MAY
CASUAL BBQ SUNDAY BRUNCH AT THE POOL BAR AT HYATT REGENCY Enjoy our sumptuous brunch featuring a lavish spread of international delicacies with a variety of live stations, roasts, a casual seafood BBQ, freshly shucked Fin de Claire oysters, a pasta station, wood-fired pizzas and a children’s food corner plus our free flow selected beverage stations. With pool access and a Camp Hyatt kids club, starting at 1,500++ THB per person. For more details and reservations, call 076 231 516 fnb. phuhp@hyatt.com
Phuket Walking Street Phuket Walking Street, “Laad Yai” is a Village & Community Development Potential Project (SML) of the “Old Phuket Town Community” in Laad Yai, Phuket Town. The visitors can enjoy the Old Phuket Town atmosphere which benefit to the local economic growth in the Old Phuket Town community. Open every Sunday from 4pm - 10om. For more info visit facebook.com/ phuketwalkingstreet or contact: 089 474 5253. Proudly supported by Class Act Media - The Phuket News, Novosti Phuketa, Live 89.5 & The Phuket News TV.
TUE
12 MAY
All you can eat BBQ Ribs night 6PM – 11PM: All you can eat BBQ Ribs served with salad buffet, potato Salad &
@thephuketnews
SAT
23 MAY
Cubana Havana Soi Dog Fundraiser Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket, from 7pm till late. Dress to impress - Cuban Way. 2,500 Baht per person inclusive of buffet dinner and free flow. Contact Lilian on 080 690 5248. Class Act Media and Live 89.5FM are proud sponsors of this event.
THU
28 MAY
The Good Shepherd Craft Shop Opens every Wednesday from 10am to NOON and every Saturday from 9am to NOON. We have a wide and wonderful selection of handicrafts such as educational toys, dolls, puppets, paper art, greeting cards for all occasions, Novelties like tooth fairy pillow, and many more. All proceeds go directly to The Good Shepherd mission. More info visit www.thegoodshepherd.info/shop/ reginatudor@ gmail.com, 083 104 0788. Proundly supported by Class Act Media.
FRI
22 MAY
THE BLACK EYED PEAS’ TABOO AT XANA BEACH CLUB’S NAKED FEET BEACH PARTY Taboo, from the six-time Grammy awardwinning American hip-hop group, The Black Eyed Peas will be performing at XANA Beach Club with Attica in Laguna Phuket, launching XANA’s first annual Naked Feet Beach Party. The event kicks off at 8pm with entry FROM THB 900 for advance purchases including limited edition LED bracelet and stylish XANA flip-flops or THB 1,200 including free transportation from Patong, Kamala and Surin. More info at XANABEACHCLUB.COM Proudly supported by Class Act Media & Live 89.5FM.
FRI
SUN
7 JUNE
29 MAY Laguna Phuket International Marathon
Bangkok Hilarious is coming to Royal Phuket Marina 3 comics. 1 venue. 1000’s of funny words and 100’s of sentences, put together to make jokes. And they are bringing their own sunbeds and umbrellas. The Invasion is coming. Graham Wooding UK, Garrett Jamieson CANADA, Leandro Soares BRAZIL. Tickets 500 THB includes 1 drink (limited tickets available). Doors open at 7pm. For tickets info@ royalphuketmarina.com or 086 943 7840. Live 89.5 and Class Act media are proud sponsors of this event.
Siam Coffin Dodgers Vets tournament. 16 teams will compete throughout the day for the chance to play in the finals on Sunday. Teams from Abu Dhabi,Australia, Dubai, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore & Thailand will compete for the prestigious trophy. In the Open Tournament which will kick off on Saturday 30th May previous champions the Moorabbin Rams from Australia & the Emirates Airlines Flying Muppets will look to add to their tally. Al Ain Amblers current UAE champions will field a strong side and will look to go a step further after being knocked out at the semi final stage last year. The Phuket Vagabonds led by inspirational captain Darryn Mathee will field a strong side and will look to win for the first time in what is the clubs 21st anniversary year. Come down and support International rugby on the island.Email : phuketrugby@gmail. com Proudly supported by Class Act Media & Live 89.5FM.
Phuket International Rugby 10 - 2015 The Thanyapura Sports Club will once again be the venue for the 17th edition of the annual Phuket International Rugby 10s. The tournament will kick off with the Athena
Welcome to the 10th Laguna Phuket International Marathon™ that will take place on Sunday, 7 June 2015. The ninth event was another great success with more than 6,000 participants from over 50 countries. In 2015, over 7,000 runners and walkers are expected to join the race with start and finish at Laguna Phuket. The Laguna Phuket International Marathon is the largest destination marathon in South East Asia. For more information about the race visit www. phuketmarathon.com Sign up online here: www.goadventureasia.com/PIM/pim.htm
26 TIME OUT
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York Across 1. By what name was Marion Mitchell Morrison better known? 2. Which member of the Black Eyed Peas is due to perform in Phuket on May 28? 3. Which newspaper does Peter Parker work for? 4. What is the connection between King Harold of England and Chelsea FC? 5. What is the chemical name for laughing gas? Answers below, centre.
SUDOKU
51. Arizona tribe 52. Outfoxes 1. After-bath powder 59. Carnival follower 5. More rational 60. Esau’s father 10. Combustible heap 61. Change the decor 14. Above 62. Ages 15. Greenish 63. Kind of infection 16. Course 64. Bit of 17. Set in motion choreography 20. “See ya!” 21. Part of a TV feed 22. Kind of doughnut Down eater 1. Deck (out) 25. Vichyssoise vegetables 2. Mad. ___ 28. Slender reed 3. Authorize 29. Health facilities 4. Legendary Davy 33. Gossip 5. As yet 34. Mellow 6. Middle part 35. Calendar square 7. Fed. agency 36. Discovering some 8. Christmas ___ dirt 9. Coffee order: Abbr. 39. Old English letter 10. French novelist 40. Charmers 11. Common 41. Complex dwelling contraction 42. Puzzling one 12. Hindu princess 44. All alternative 13. Taro variety 45. Allude (to) 18. Cry of disgust 46. Certain fir 19. Gathering leaves 48. Follows 22. Bumper car
23. The state of existing in space 24. Ollie and kin 25. Higher 26. Book before Job 27. Old weapons 29. Immobilize 30. Beloved of Aphrodite 31. Pretentious 32. Modus operandi 34. Tobacco product 37. Most aloof 38. Deviations 43. Assignations 46. Bungle 47. Disposed 48. Gawk at 49. Oktoberfest serving 50. Lab item 51. Bunch 53. Towel stitching 54. Guinness Book suffix 55. Call to Bo-peep 56. No longer working: Abbr. 57. Tribute, of sorts 58. Dandy
Solutions to last week’s puzzles:
Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1. John Wayne; 2. Taboo (Jaime Luis Gómez); 3. The Daily Bugle; 4. Stamford Bridge; 5. Nitrous oxide.
GOT YOUR NUMBER
ISLAND VIEW
This week in history ■■ May 8, 1945
World War II: VE Day, combat ends in Europe. German forces agree in Reims, France, to an unconditional surrender. ■■ May 9, 1980 In Norco, California, five masked gunmen hold up a Security Pacific bank, leading to a shoot-out and one of the largest pursuits in California history. Two gunmen and a police officer are killed and 33 police and other vehicles are destroyed in the chase.
$24,420
Revenue lost by Facebook for every minute the site is down.
86
Percentage of holy water believed to contain fecal matter.
12
Number of pubic hairs eaten every year by the average fast food consumer.
950
■■ May 10, 1893
Litres of blood your heart pumps through your body in an average day.
$148bn
Loss to the US economy each year from decreased productivity or absenteeism caused by hangovers.
Band members in a parade through the streets of Phuket Town. Photo by Alasdair Forbes
Source: Uberfacts
Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket? Email it to editor1@classactmedia.co.th
The Supreme Court of the United States rules, in Nix v. Hedden, that a tomato is a vegetable, not a fruit, under the Tariff Act of 1883. ■■ May 11, 1949 Siam officially changes its name to Thailand for the second time. (‘Thailand’ had been in use since 1939 but was changed back to Siam in 1945.) ■■ May 12, 2008 An earthquake measuring around 8.0 on the Richter scale kills more than 69,000 people in Sichuan, China. ■■ May 13, 1787 Capt Arthur Phillip leaves Portsmouth, England, with eleven ships full of convicts (the “First Fleet”) to establish a penal colony in Australia. Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews
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@thephuketnews
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
PROPERTY 27
28 PROPERTY
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
@thephuketnews
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
PROPERTY 29
30 PROPERTY
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FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
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www.FazWaz.com
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CLASSIFIEDS 33
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
HEALTH
MARINE SERVICES
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STORAGE Reserve Your Storage Space
Call 076 29 29 09
or visit mystorageasia.com
Sizes to Suit all Budgets Personal & Business Storage Motorcycle Storage Left Luggage Service We Sell Boxes Storage Insurance Inclusive
Secure, Clean & Cost Effective Self Storage Jungceylon Shopping Center, Patong, Phuket
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34 CLASSIFIEDS
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Jobs
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classifieds@thephuketnews.com
Vacancies for property sales reps
Housekeeper wanted- live in
1.Sale English,Chinese,Russia (Good commission)Have experience in line of Sale 2.staff at booth for Property(17,000 + Lunch + Commission) Can communicate Good English, Kaew, kaew@agtropical.com, 094 807 3434.
Housekeeper wanted to live in Kata. Must love dogs and have some knowledge of english. Ideal position for couple. Call on 080 690 5248 or email lil@ladolcevitare.com.au, Lillian Dinic , Address : 31/3 Soi Plakjae Kata Phuket.
The Terminal Phuket Phuket Sirinath Property & The Terminal Phuket Sales Staff 2 (2 years Experience) Marketing 1 (3 years Experience) Accounting 1 (5 years Experience) A & S Supervisor 1 (10 years Experience) M & E Engineer 1 (10 years Experience) HR, Naiyang Beach, k.taksakorn@gmail.com, 076 327 590.
Data Entry Administrator Data Entry Admin Staff required for Phukets leading property agent, LivePhuket the exclusive property partner to The Phuket News. Must have the following qualification for this position. - High vocational certificate or Bachelor’s degree graduate in any related field - Good command of MS Excel - Hard-working, self-disciplined, and positive working attitude - Ability to handle multiple priorities and meet deadlines - Can work from Monday to Saturday (every other Saturday) - Must have excellent English reading and writing skills. Contact Paul Trayman, Kamala, 092 474 6157, Email paul@livephuket.com
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
Excellent THAI CHEF Looking for an excellent Thai Chef to work abroad. I am looking for an excellent Thai Chef to work overseas in Sri Lanka at a new Thai Restaurant. Would require to speak little bit of english but what I am looking for is a really good chef who can make Authentic Thai food. Will provide great salary and accomodation. Please contact me on suranga.sd@ gmail.com to discuss further.
TELE SALES WORK FROM HOME Earn up to 3,000 - 5,000 baht/day. International organization specialized in holiday rentals listing is expanding to new areas of interest. The ideal candidate is a responsible and diligent person with experience as a telemarketer or in sales. Good English and excel skills are essential. Thai or foreigners can both apply. We offer: full training, telephone and email support, high commissions, Email: recruitment@holiplanet.com
Animal caregiver WANTED Starting 1st March, full time, caring for sick animals, dog walking, grooming, medicating & running errands, some overnight & weekends expected, experience with animals a must, please send resume to : jellinecastro@ yahoo.com
Web Project Manager Senior DEV
Bitsiren is looking for a talented senior web developer with a positive and “can do” attitude to join us and work in a fun and creative working environment! BitSiren offers a competitive compensation package including: 5 day work week, work permit, paid vacation, health insurance and social insurance contribution. For more information please visit http://www.bitsiren.com/ about-bitsiren/career/senior-web-developer.html
Assistant Branch Manager 20 K
We are hiring!!!!! Both positions for our new branch in Phuket and to be part of our energetic team. Excellent commission & benefits. Email info@thailandpooltables. com, 20,000 THB per month, Ying.
Join an International Team, Princess Yachts Phuket is hiring 1 Position Urgently: Marketing Assistant; good English, good knowledge of the Adobe Creative Suite, basic Photo and Video production and Website, Thai national Please call Rico Stapel at: 086 690 0444 and send resume to rico@princessyachtssea.com
Are you looking for a Nanny? Job Wanted!!! If you are looking for someone who can look after your child, pets or house when you plan to get away at night or during the weekend, Pls contact Email : jj_icu@hotmail.com, 081 476 7570.
Class Act Media is southern Thailand's most comprehensive media company, incorporating Phuket’s leading English newspaper ‘The Phuket News’, Russian language newspaper 'Novosti Phuketa', Phuket’s leading English radio station ‘Live 89.5’, Phuket English TV 'Phuket News TV' and a host of publications & services including ‘The Phuket Colouring book’ & ‘Phuket Ticket Master’.
Class Act Media Co., Ltd is Southern Thailand’s most comprehensive media company, incorporating Phuket’s leading English weekly newspaper The Phuket News, Russian Language newspaper Novosti Phuketa, English radio station Live 89.5, English TV Phuket News TV and a host of publications and services including The Phuket Colouring Book and PhuketTicket Master.
Class Act Media Co., Ltd is Southern Thailand’s most comprehensive media company, incorporating Phuket’s leading English weekly newspaper The Phuket News, Russian Language newspaper Novosti Phuketa, English radio station Live 89.5, English TV Phuket News TV and a host of publications and services including The Phuket Colouring Book and PhuketTicket Master.
SALES REPRESENTATIVES
Head Of Graphic Designer Department
Graphic Designer
Qualifications: ● Thai or Expat. ● Excellent communication and negotiation skills in Thai and English. ● Highly motivated self-starter with a positive attitude. ● Works well under pressure and has a will to succeed.
We offer: ● Competitive salary, bonuses and travel expenses. ● A friendly work environment. ● Social security paid by the company. ● Excellent career progress opportunities. Interested candidates are invited to send application with full resume, in English, indicating qualifications, experience, recent photo and expected salary.
Apply online at thephuketnews.com/job.php
Class Act Media Co., Ltd.
99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 Fax: 076 612 553
We offer:
● Competitive salary ● Social security (100%) paid by the company ● Excellent career progress opportunity ● Time in lieu for any overtime hours worked
Qualifications:
● Good communication skills both in Thai and English ● Excellent skills in using Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator and other Graphic design software ● Experience in designing and layout of magazines & newspapers ● Ability to work after normal work hours and/or weekends (time in lieu will be given)
Responsibilities:
● Designing advertisements for our clients ● Layout of our publications ● All artwork and graphic design work related to production If you are a professional and enthusiastic person, this is an excellent opportunity to advance in a growing and innovative media company in Phuket. Interested candidates are invited to fill out an application and attach their full resumé in English indicating qualifications, experience and expected salary, with a recent photo on thephuketnews.com/job.php
We are currently recruiting for a graphic designer to join our team to handle the layout of our publications, including online.
The job: We require Full Time Graphic Designers to handle: ● Designing advertisements for clients ● Layout of The Phuket News and our other publications ● All artwork and graphic design work related to production
Applicants must have: ● Excellent skills with InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator and other graphic design software
● Min. 1 year experience in design and layout of newspapers or magazines
● Good English (written and spoken)
We offer: ● Competitive salary ● Friendly work environment ● Excellent progress opportunity and job security Interested applicants are invited to apply in person or send application with full resume indicating qualifications and experience, expected salary and recent photo to: thephuketnews.com/job.php
Class Act Media Co., Ltd.
Class Act Media Co., Ltd.
99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 Fax: 076 612 553
99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 Fax: 076 612 553
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CLASSIFIEDS 35
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
Buy&Sell
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BOATS & YACHTS 3.1 RIB Yacht tender dinghy
3.1m Stingray RIB with 9.9hp 4 stroke Suzuki outboard, storage cover, fuel tank etc. Great size yacht tender dinghy, as new 140,000b, Price : 140,000, sc@acronautic. com, 0898734044.
NEW!
33/F Gulf Craft W/A
Two suzuki 225 HP outboards - only 300 hours, custom made RIB-dinghy with small outboard, engine electronics and hydraulics, ray marine GPS/radar/depth sounder, many extras. 3,850,000. THB, 089 873 3713.
4.1M/40HP RIB, 09/2014 AS NEW! BOUG HT IN SEPT. 2014,14HRS ON LY! SUZU KI ENGINE+BOAT UNDER WARRANTY (SUZUKI PHUKET). BIMINI+TRAILER+TUBE COVERS. 0935840565 (RUS/ ENG) 0987086632 (FR/ENG, 350,000 THB,)
Pershing 72 – EUR 1,200,000
Benetti Tradition 100 – USD 6,455,000
2015 Lagoon 630 Motor Yacht – EUR 2,060,338
Silver Princess Yacht PC530
A 53 ft Power Catamaran by Silver Princess Yachts. Beautiful design, compact yacht with space & modern interior. Dimensions: 53 ft length, 21 ft beam, 4 ft draft, 50 passengers, 22,000,000 THB, Sonny, 669 8810 5024, www.silver-princess.com, sonny@silver-princess.com
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES German bakery & deli & snack
Main road, 8 years clientele, take over + incl. training complete equipment, staff room, 3 or 5 years leasing contract. Yearly volume 4 mio. hansibakery@ gmail.com, Price: 3.5 million, Contact Mr. Stark, ansibakery@gmail.com
2006 Fountaine Pajot Lavezzi 40 - USD 240,000
2013 Lagoon 450 – EUR 550,000
1999 Nauticat 44 – USD 347,000
Bar For Sale O Top Markets
Bar For Sale with full trading history showing increasing growth. Includes 4Mil Bht Thai company & 1 Work Permit. Great Location, good customer base, Price : 2,000,000, Person : charlie kenyon, charlie@paddymalones.com.au, 0841858719.
www.simpsonmarine.com
Bar Bangla Road for sale
Bangla Soi Crocodile - Good situation (n3) Fully furnished (alcohols,TV,fridge,Cash register...) Contract until 01-01-2016 Key money : 185 000 Baths 09 87 26 82 84 or arnaud270@hotmail.fr
Restaurant Khao Lak for Sale
Large profitable restaurant. 1.6 mio THB, ONO Central location, high turnover, includes all furnishings, website. Extra income from shops on premises, good TripAdvisor reviews, Price 1.6 mio THB, anders@siamthaihouses.com, 0848470577.
Bangla bar for sale
Newly refurbished and fully fitted out sports bar. Cheapest rent in Bangla road area. 3 year renewable contract. Great business opportunity, Contact Steve, stevepearcergj@ hotmail.co.uk, 089 587 0819 (EN)
One of a kind retail space
One of a kind retail space for rent!! Road front building, 36-50 SQM price from 12 to 16,000 THB per month. Call now 085 797 0005.
Newly developed Nightclub in Patong on Bangla Road. A turnkey operation with a fully fitted light, sound system and bars. Long renewable contract available. Serious enquiries only. Brokers welcome. Contact Steve, stevepearcergj@ hotmail.co.uk, 089 587 0819 (EN)
Patong Nightclub for Sale
Restaurant & Bar For Rent A long established fully equipped Restaurant with Bar for Rent in an excellent location on Nanai Rd, Patong. The 105 M2 premises includes a fully equipped Kitchen, Restaurant and Bar with ample seating for 50 customers and excellent parking facilities., Peter Wesche, info@phuket-besthomes.com, 081 892 8526. FREEDOM BAR FOR SALE
Good situation (Middle Line 4) Fully Equiped chairs fridges TV alcohols 1 YEAR Contract (End February 2016) 1,4MB [Value 1,8MB] 093-575-1969 afternoon, 1400000 THB, thai-pascal@ hotmail.com, 093 575 1969.
CAR FOR SALE Car For Sale
1996 Toyota Corolla Sedan, Silver Gray. Automatic power steering, good aircon, goo tyres. 173,00kms. New Stereo, tinted windows. Bargain at 145,000 Baht. Kamala. Call Norm 083 182 2797.
TOYOTA Fortune 2009
7 seats, Silver, GPS video, Family car Diesel 2,694cc, Blue book Service history Toyota Pearl 78,000kms. AUTOMATIC transmission, golfguru2005@yahoo.co.uk, 076 615 827.
2012 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid
Powerful 380HP, Full Option: Bose Sound, Pano roof, Navigator Map. etc. Immaculate condition, no accident, low mileage, one owner, Price : 4,500,000 THB, Phone 086-2806526.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sports
Mitsubishi Pajero Sports 2012, A1 condition, 14,000 KM, Silver Colour. 950,000THB Eng: Ph. 0993614582 Thai: Ph. 080 383 3060.
Subaru Forester XT Turbo for sale
For sale Subaru Forester 2.0 XT AWD CVT. 240 hp, auto light control and wiper control (rainy). crossover. Push start, xenon, rain sensor, ABS, air bags, electro seats, reversing camera, TV / CD / MP3 / USB / AUХ/ HDD/ DVD- VIDEO, ESP, separate climate control, cruise control, regulation steering, EBD, hatch, X-mode, acceleration to 100 km\h until 7 seconds, electric trunk, number plate for present)), kamila.sema@ icloud.com, 0824133707.
TOYOTA Fortune 2006
7 seats, Black, Family car, Petrol 2,982cc Blue book, Service history Toyota Pearl, 160,000kms. AUTOMATIC transmission, golfguru2005@yahoo.co.uk, 076 615 827.
Nissan Teana Special 6 cyl
Nissan Teana Special 6 cyl November 2013 17000 Km New price 1.700.000.THB Price NOW 1,100,000.THB, Maurice, Email: Maurice.phuket@gmail.com, 099 302 7071, Thai: 090 163 2140.
Nissan Teana 2.5Lt
Model 2014 17,000km. New price 1.7Mln NOW 1,050,000Baht Eng: 081 788 8280 Thai: 090 163 2140, Contact Maurice, maurice.phuket@gmail.com , 090 163 2140.
2012 Toyota Fortuna 24,000km
2012 Pearl white Toyota Fortuna For Sale. 3.0 D4D VN Turbo Great condition- Baht Black leather interior. Tax / insurance till 2016, 900,000, Loch Palm, Kathu, Phuket, glawre123@gmail.com, 0898668825.
@thephuketnews
36 CLASSIFIEDS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
BUY & SELL IN PHUKET
List your classified now at thephuketnews.com MOTORBIKES FOR SALE
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
COMMUNITY
Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS 2012
Showroom condition, new from Kawasaki Phuket May 2012, 2,000km, Hepco & Becker Engine Bars & Rear-rack, Kawasaki Handguards and Pyramid Hugger., 220,000 THB, Paul, 084 1 303 234, Plongmore@hotmail.com
MEMBERSHIPS Blue Canyon Membership Blue Canyon Membership for sale. 1 corporate nominee for sale THB 630,000 inc transfer fee. grahamhaslam@hotmail.com
MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE CAMERA baby car seats for sale BAKLONG Car Seat - Very good condition, suitable for newborn to 25KG. Prices are THB 4,000 per seat, buy both for only THB 7,000. Call 086 479 7471.
PETS FOR ADOPTION Neo and Cookie We are 15 weeks old.
We are very sweet with people and can get along easy with other dogs too! We hope you are the one who can give us a home. We will protect your house and love to cuddle. We already got some basic training. If you are interested in us you will get 2 dog training lessons for free.A dog is often happier when they have a friend around. These are best friends, so it would be best if they can stay together, Diana Koster, info@phuket-dog-resort.com, 083 599 6017.
OTHER Office Space Laguna
Office Space Laguna - Plaza del Mar Fully Furnished offices 4 Office Suite plus boardroom Rent entire unit or individual office 080 045 4474.
CALLING THE DOG LOVERS OF PHUKET
OTHER Best Deal
Rawai business for sale. Area approx 2Rai, can do restaurant or other business.Five mins from beach. Long term lease, yearly rent B200,000. 4 bedrooms house included. Reduce from B980,000 to B520,000. Contact Khun Asoke at 089 646 7176 / big_redchili@yahoo.com
For Sale
The Last Piece of Sea View Land on Prime Location in Patong, just 500 m. from Patong beach, 1.3 KM. to Jungceylon Shopping Mall, Contact: Karuna, kpattarawalee@gmail.com,089-967-5373.
COMPANY FOR SALE
Industrial over locker. Whitehouse Brand. 3 Thread. Brand new never used. Full tool kit. Bargain at 12,000 Baht. Call Sandi 087 264 0778.
FOR QUICK SALE
Sea-View Land & Luxury Villa project in Kamala including architect plans & building permit for 9 villas, 4000m2 sale only THB 30 MB, MIO, pupillopascal@gmail.com Call:088 768 0942.
Ocean View Land Kamala
Sea view land in Patong
Soi Dog are looking for dog lovers in Phuket to come and spend time with our 300+ street dogs in residence at our shelter in Mai Khao, North Phuket. We need volunteers to help socialise and walk our dogs - as this is fundamental in preparing our lovely dogs for adoption in Phuket and around the world. Whether you can spare one day a week or can come every day, we would love to have you help our dogs. Volunteering at Soi Dog is an amazing experience and may well change your life. For more details, please email Diana at volunteering@soidog-foundation.org
Half rai 797sq.m. cleared and leveled, power connected, sealed road, MUST SELL 6.75million. For ENG 090 492 3101 THA 093 768 6694, Contact Simon, simonbrutonclay@yahoo.com. au, 090 492 3101.
Company for sale - Owner retiring Well known 12 year established company specializing in sales and rental of containers, site/sales offices, Porta Loos as well as Self Storage. Customer base includes Tesco Lotus, Laguna, Marriot, Boat Lagoon and many more. Enormous potential for expansion and export. A conservative value of company assets exceed 11MB which is included in the sale price of 14MB. Call Gordon 081 892 4804, www.safewayasia.com.
thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
SPORT 37
Phuket United fall to 10th with Siam Navy loss FUTSAL JP Mestanza editor2@classactmedia.co.th
Phuket, Krabi in Andaman Derby draw FOOTBALL Steven Layne editor@classactmedia.co.th
P
huket and Krabi football clubs’ players and fans would have to be content with a point after the two Southern clubs played to a 1-1 draw in league play last Sunday (May 2) at Surakul Stadium in Phuket Town. Just under 4,000 fans turned up for the Andaman Derby match – several hundred of whom had bussed in from across the Phang Nga Bay. There were chances enjoyed by both clubs, and a handful of set plays awarded from the back-and-forth opening touches, but the two Southern clubs looked fated for a stale mate. But it was the Ronins who gained the advantage late in the first half with a goal credited to Alef Poji, whose shot into the Krabi box from the right flank, was helped in by a deflection off the head of Krabi’s Ivorian defender Kone Seydou. Krabi’s other Ivorian, Kassiaty Labi – a midfielder who turned 31 on Wednesday (May 6) – got an early start on his birthday celebrations in the 78th minute when he drove home the equaliser with his flawless left foot to the far post from just top of the box. Reinforcements from both benches accompanied a number of chances on both sides of the pitch through to four minutes of injury time, but the score would remain at deadlock at the final whistle. Krabi dropped down to 17th place with 10 points after @thephuketnews
TOP: Beline Mdebi finds space in crowded Krabi territory; ABOVE: Pradipat Amatantri vies for possession. 11 matches. Despite a negative goal difference of three, Phuket have 17 points, 10 less than runaway league leaders Police United, who appear destined to return to the Thai Premier League next season. Meanwhile, the Ronins have already hit the road again as they took on 10 th placed Bangkok FC “Iron Bulls” on
Wednesday (May 6) while The Phuket News went to press (see thephuketnews.com for the latest results). This Sunday (May 10), Phuket FC return home to take on Thai Tobacco Monopoly FC at Surakul Stadium in Phuket Town – kickoff at 7pm. Class Act Media are proud media sponsors of Phuket FC.
THE SMELL OF DESPERAtion was strong during the waning moments of the Phuket United, Siam Navy clash at Saphan Hin Sports Centre last Sunday (May 3) as the Andaman Pearl attempted to score on final goal to tie the game up but it was not to be. United lost to Navy 3-2 in a tough contest that even saw defender Edson “Gugu” Silva substitute in for the goalkeeper in the hopes of providing more firepower in the final two minutes. Still, the island’s professoinal fivea-side club was on the losing end of a hard-fought game that will unfortunately force United down to 10th place (7 points) in the Futsal Thailand Premier League. Navy’s Jessada Chudet (No. 8) opened the scoring shortly before the half. Jessada, who also plays on the Thailand national futsal squad and is consistently in
Navy’s Jessada Chudet fends off Phuket’s Gugu. the top five scoreres each season, scored again early in the second half to give Navy a commanding 2-0 lead. But United’s “Gugu” (No. 9) ripped a shot from just outside the arc to spark a Phuket comeback. Just minutes later, Patchaya Srimanta (No. 7) added another Phuket score to level the game in front of a raucous crowd of just over 2,000 people. Navy had the last laught, however, as Fernando Marcos Vinicius (No. 6) scored roughly five minutes later to
put his team ahead for good. Phuket United travelled to Chatchai Hall on Wednesday (May 6) and took on Nakhon Ratchasima as The Phuket News went to press. Phuket will remain on the road for this Sunday’s match (May 10) against CAT FC before heading back to Saphan Hin Sports Centre to take on Ayutthaya City next Saturday (May 16) – kickoff at 7pm. Class Act Media are proud media sponsors of Phuket United.
38 SPORT
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
Mourinho: Not going to match Fergie record FOOTBALL
J
ose Mourinho insisted he cannot equal former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson’s record of 13 Premier League titles, saying it would be “impossible”. Chelsea boss Mourinho guided the Blues to the English title on Sunday following a 1-0 victory at home to London rivals Crystal Palace. It was the third time the 52-year-old Mourinho, now in his second spell as Chelsea manager, has brought the Premier League title to Stamford Bridge following the 2004/05 and 2005/06 triumphs the Portuguese boss enjoyed during his initial period in charge. Ferguson was 51 when he guided United to the inaugural Premier League title but Mourinho, who has also enjoyed domestic title success in his native Portugal, as well as Italy and Spain, dismissed talk of equalling the record.
time on May 24, spent his entire pro career with the Blues and has been on the field for every minute of their 35 league matches this season. “This is the start of a new group, a new era and for sure this current group are going to go on to win many more trophies for the club,” Terry said. Meanwhile, Alexis Sanchez scored twice as Arsenal all but secured a top-four finish in the league for the 18th straight season with a 3-1 win at Hull on Monday (May 4). Chelsea’s Belgian midfielder Eden Hazard (R) celebrates Arsenal swept into a threeafter scoring during the English Premier League football goal half-time lead thanks to match between Chelsea and Crystal Palace at Stamford Sanchez’s double and a strike Bridge. Photo: AFP/Ian Kington from Aaron Ramsey before “I have a long way to go, enjoyed two title wins with Stephen Quinn pulled one but Sir Alex left the bar in an Porto in Portugal, two with back for Hull after the break. The victory put third-placed impossible position for any- Inter Milan in Italy and one one. I cannot win 13 Premier with Real Madrid in Spain. Arsenal nine points clear of Leagues,” Mourinho said. “I Meanwhile, Chelsea captain fifth-placed Liverpool, who can win 13 championships. John Terry said the club’s first have only three matches reI can. I have eight, I think I EPL title in five years would maining and a vastly inferior can go to 13. But 13 Premier usher in a new era of success goal difference to the Gunners, for the club. Leagues, no, no chance.”. and effectively guaranteed their In addition to his three Terry, set to lift the Premier qualification for the Champions titles with Chelsea, Mourinho League trophy for the fourth League.
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29 26 26 26 26 23 23 23 23 23
689 683 677 675 674 671 670 665 656 654
English Premier League 2014 - 2015 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Team
MP W
D
L
F
A GD Pts
Chelsea Man City Arsenal Man Utd Liverpool Tottenham Southampton Swansea West Ham Stoke Everton Crystal Palace West Brom Aston Villa Newcastle Leicester Hull Sunderland QPR Burnley
35 35 34 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 34 35 35
8 7 7 8 7 7 6 8 11 8 11 9 10 8 8 7 10 15 6 11
2 7 6 8 10 11 12 12 12 14 13 15 15 18 18 19 17 13 22 19
69 71 66 59 49 55 48 43 43 39 46 42 33 29 36 39 33 28 39 26
27 36 33 35 38 50 28 44 42 44 46 48 46 50 60 54 48 50 61 53
25 21 21 19 18 17 17 15 12 13 11 11 10 9 9 9 8 6 7 5
42 35 33 24 11 5 20 -1 1 -5 0 -6 -13 -21 -24 -15 -15 -22 -22 -27
83 70 70 65 61 58 57 53 47 47 44 42 40 35 35 34 34 33 27 26
thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
Laguna book semi-finals berth after controversial win CRICKET Stuart Reading editor2@classactmedia.co.th
I
n protest of an umpire’s decision, Island CC pulled their batsmen from the field and forfeited their match against Laguna in the final round of matches of the Phuket Cricket Group 40-Over League last Sunday (May 3) at the Alan Cooke Ground (ACG). ICC captain Anand Chang recalled his players from the field after one of their batsmen was penalised five runs. The controversial forfeiture gives Laguna an automatic berth to the semi-finals of the league this Sunday (May 8) at the ACG where they will take on Thalang with a place in the finals on the line. Only five points separated
both Laguna and ICC heading into last Sunday’s (May 3) match. After a steady start, Laguna lost opening bat Arif Mushtaq (11) in the 6th over after being caught and bowled
off by Arun Virdikar with the score on 29. Laguna’s Ali Khan (28) and opener Manish Sadarangani (87) steadied the innings before Khan fell in the 15th over. Laguna then lost two more players with the
score at 102-5 in the 23rd over as ICC were in the ascendency. This brought out Laguna captain Stuart Reading (38), and with Sadarangani, put on a valuable 95 run partnership before Sadarangani was caught
with the score on 197-6 in the 36th over. After some back and forth, Laguna’s innings came to a premature ending after 37.5 overs being all out with 212-10. After the break, ICC set about their chase but in the 4th over, after top-edging a ball, which was dropped by wicketkeeper Clowes, and the ICC openers then setting off for a run, nearby fielder Roly Cooper gathered the ball and made a direct hit with batsman Junaid Mohammad (16) being adjudged short of his ground by the umpire. Not initially accepting the umpire’s decision and walking immediately back to the clubhouse, the umpires awarded 5 penalty runs, upon which the ICC captain Chand recalled his batsmen from the field, forfeiting the match.
Phuket fighter prepares for July UFC bout MMA PHUKET-BASED MMA FIGHTER Mike Swick (15-5), who trains out of AKA Thailand in Rawai, will enter the cage once again at UFC 189 when he takes on Canadian prospect Alex Garcia (12-2) on July 11 in a welterweight bout (77 kg). The fight will take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in the undercard of
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403
16:30
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18:30
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832
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Raceday, Catalunya, Barcelona Spanish Grand Prix
834, 669
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Rugby League
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Eels v. Storm
13:00
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669
20:00
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813
18:00
832
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@thephuketnews
the highly-anticipated Jose Aldo (25-1) vs Conor Mcgregor (17-2) lightweight title fight. This will be Swick’s 15th fight inside the octagon of the sport’s premier organisation and the first since a 2012 loss to Matt Brown. The Texas-native is one of the owners and trainers at AKA Thailand, an MMA and Muay Thai camp based in the Rawai/ Nai Harn area that opened last year. The 35-year-old has taken on
some of the toughest competitors in the sport, including DaMarques Johnson, Yushin Okami, Ben Saunders, Paulo Thiago, Brown and others. Meanwhile, his opponent – known as “The Dominican Nightmare” - will be making his fourth fight in the UFC when he steps into the cage to fight Swick in July. His last bout took place in August 2014, a unanimous decision loss to Neil Magny.
HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Run #1524: Saturday, May 9 at 4pm Hares: Gorgeous, Barbara Woodhouse & Rob (VH) Location: Chaofa West – Klong Krata Reservoir Directions: From Chalong circle travel north on Chaofa West and turn LEFT HHH (Captain’s Paint) into the government access road that will angle you around Wat Luang Pu Supha. Crossing the new
bridge follow HHH signs toward Phuket Island Safari. Laager on the RIGHT HHH. From Central, travel south on Chaofa West past Phukuka golf and turn RIGHT HHH into the same government access road. Continue as above. Bus Pick- up: Kamala (Baan Rim Klong) 2:30pm, Patong (Expat Hotel) 3pm More info: phuket-hhh.com
SPORT 39
Photo: Guy Newell
Duncanson keeps Coronation Cup title in Phuket SAILING
PHUKET’S OWN SCOTT Duncanson became the first skipper ever to win the Coronation Cup in back-to-back years with last week’s impressive run at the 11th Top of the Gulf Regatta in Pattaya’s Ocean Marina Yacht Club. The event, one of the most prestigious in the Southeast Asian regatta calendar, saw Duncanson and his crew on Kingdom Properties take the cup one race before the final. This was also the fourth time Duncanson won the Coronation Cup, a race of Platu class keelboats. The Australian skipper won with 16 points – 12-points ahead of second place boat Easy Tiger IV, skippered by fellow Aussie Chris Way, which ended the series on 28 points. Meanwhile, 12-yearold Pawat Pongwilai of the Phuket Youth Sailing Club finished 11th out of a field of 55 competitiors in the Optimist B class of the National Optimist Finals, which pits youth racers under 15 years old against one another. Other PYSC competitors: Nattapong Youngngam (29 th), Thanakorn Mafiriper (39th) and Kartoon Jundet (47th) all finished in the Optimist A class of races.
Sport
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
editor2@classactmedia.co.th
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
Strong attack not enough to put United past Navy > page 37
F1 PREVIEW: SPANISH GRAND PRIX
Red Bull Racing’s Sebastian Vettel drives at the Circuit de Catalunya on Sunday in Montmelo on the outskirts of Barcelona during the Spanish Formula One Grand Prix in 2011. Photo: AFP
BOX OF NEUTRALS Michael Lamonato michael@boxofneutrals.com
he opening four rounds of the 2015 Formula One season left us on a cliffhanger: Mercedes continues to lead, but Ferrari is bearing down with considerable haste. Though the silver-clad Lewis Hamilton and red-dressed Sebastian Vettel are the only men to win races thus far. Their respective teammates, Nico Rosberg and Kimi Räikkönen,
T
came alive during the previous round in Bahrain. The might of Maranello has had considerable success during the off-season in shaking off its lethargic 2014 to out-develop Mercedes. Its engine, arguably the worst power unit of last year, turned a 50 horsepower deficit into power parity with its German rival. Also in the plus column for Ferrari is the guidance of technical guru James Allison, whose trademark easy-going chassis philosophy has created a car that is easy to drive and kind to its tyres. Mercedes, on the other
hand, benefits from the solid year of development in 2014. It is a well-rounded package with few weaknesses, meaning a good weekend is likely to bring home the goods when only a perfect one will do for Ferrari. Barcelona, home of the Spanish GP, is also a longstanding test venue so teams and drivers will be able to run at their maximum this weekend. While Ferrari and Mercedes will take the opportunity to continue their duel at the head of the field, Williams and Red Bull hope to end their underwhelming performances.
Williams has made an island of itself in third place, carrying over enough pace from last year to keep it out of reach of the midfield, but not building on its successes sufficiently to catch up to the contenders. It is being brutally outspent in the money-hungry Ferrari–Mercedes development war, forcing the British squad to temper its expectations in what was supposed to be its dress rehearsal year for a 2016 title tilt. By that same token, Valtteri Bottas and Felipe Massa, who have often had only themselves
to race against this season, could be forgiven for perversely wanting Red Bull Racing to catch up, if only to give them something to do on a Sunday afternoon. Red Bull Racing, the fallen four-time champion, has been out of sorts this season as it continues to struggle with a deeply unreliable Renault power unit. The optimists inside the energy drink company will take solace in the phenomenal turnaround last season that resulted in three unlikely victories and second in the constructors championship.
But this year the highest they finished is sixth. Worse still is that Daniel Ricciardo, the team’s highest points scorer, has used three of his allocated four engines, making penalties for taking new units inevitable. But with the most ground to make up is the limping McLaren, which continues to struggle in its reunion with Honda and its engines. The first four races set the scene, but in Spain we start the all-important second act of the season, and I suspect there are plenty of twists still yet to come.
Champions League heats up with upset FOOTBALL ALVARO MORATA AND CARlos Tevez struck a goal apiece as Juventus boosted their Champions League final chances with a 2-1 win over Real Madrid in their first leg semi-final on Tuesday (May 5) as Bayern Munich met Barcelona CF on Wednesday (May 6) in the other semi-final. Morata, who moved from Real to Juventus last summer, tapped home the rebound from a Tevez strike on eight minutes to send Juventus Stadium into raptures. But Cristiano Ronaldo’s 76th goal in the competition, levelled it for the Spanish team.
But the Turin giants were back in front when Tevez beat Iker Casillas from the penalty spot on 57 minutes after he was felled in the area. Real host Juventus on May 13 when they will look to make their precious away goal count as they bid to secure a second consecutive final. However Juve, who last appeared in the last four in 2003 when they were beaten by AC Milan in the final, will feel confident of causing an upset against the record 10-time and defending champions. “We will have to play a lot better in the second leg if we are to go through,” said Juve coach
Massimiliano Allegri. Meanwhile, Bayern coach Pep Guardiola returned to the Camp Nou for the first time on Wednesday (May 6) as Barcelona’s most sucessful coach took on the Catalan stronghold in the first-leg of their Champions League semi-final while The Phuket News went to press. Pep Guardiola will return to the Camp Nou with the away side for the first time on Wednesday as Barcelona’s most successful coach takes Bayern Munich to the Catalan stronghold in the first-leg of their Champions League semi-final. As a player Guardiola was a key cog of the Barca side that won their first ever European Cup in 1992. And as a coach he led the
Carlos Tevez’s second-half penalty gave Juventus a 2-1 lead in the tie after Cristiano Ronaldo had pegged back Álvaro Morata’s early opener. Photo: AFP/Marco Bertorello club to 14 trophies, including two Champions Leagues titles during a glorious four-year spell between 2008 and 2012. However, he now must find a
way to outwit former teammate and friend, the Barcelona coach Luis Enrique, and a host of his former charges who are in sensational form. AFP thephuketnews