08-07-2016

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FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

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ILLEGAL HOLIDAY RENTALS UNDER FIRE > PAGE 5

TANGLE GATE Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

O

fficials will spend more than B51 billion on burying power cables in Bangkok in response to Microsoft billionaire Bill Gates sledging Thailand for its ugly cable tangles along the streets – but Phuket will not get any special funding to remove one of the best known eyesores throughout the country.

The philanthropist posted an image

of a tangle of wires hanging from a power pole on his blog GatesNotes and wrote: “Due to faulty infrastructure, many urban areas suffer from frequent blackouts and power cuts, and the electrical grid often doesn’t serve the people who need it most.

“I’ve visited many cities filled with tangled wires such as those in this photo from Thailand, where people have illegally tapped into the grid on their own to get the power they need – at great personal risk.”

Blowback across the internet quickly pointed out that the cable tangle in the photo posted by Mr Gates was a jumble of telecommunication wires, not actual power cables, but officials in Bangkok took the point to heart and by Tuesday (July 5) had announced a B51.7 billion project to bury 147 kilometres of power cables throughout the capital over the next five years.

Yet Phuket will not see one baht from Bangkok to achieve the same.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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Chinese tour company blitz

LIFE

PAGE 20

Protecting your dog from babies Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot

Bill Gates blast over ugly cable tangles spurs B51 billion cleanup in Bangkok, but no action in Phuket

NEWS

“We will not get any part of those funds,” Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongthada told The Phuket News this week.

“We are trying to organise all utilities cables to make the streets look better, but I have yet to receive any official notice that Phuket will receive any budget to tackle this problem,” he added.

“We have just finished one project to bury cables underground in Phuket Town involving the Phuket…

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Tours continue at Koh Khai despite environmental concerns > page 7

Cable eyesore to stay as budgets inch ahead

Continued from page 1 ...and the local municipality.

Next, we will do the same in Patong soon,” he said.

Suthep Jitseree, Manager of PEA office in Phuket Town, explained, “We are not getting extra funds because we are the PEA, and the decision to spend that money to bury cables in Bangkok was made by the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA).

“However, the project to bury cables along Thalang Rd is finished, and we are still installing the cables underground along Yaowarat Rd, Dibuk Rd and Thepkrasattri Rd,” Mr Suthep said.

Watcharin Prapa, Manager of the PEA office in Patong, confirmed that his office will receive nothing from the push to bury cables. “But the B200 million project to install cables underground along Thaweewong Rd (the Patong beachfront road) is going ahead,” he said.

“We will have a second public hearing later this month, after the first public hearing in June failed to gain public approval,” he added.

The Patong “mass burial of cables” project aims to install cables underground

The two men surrendered after more than 30 police surrounded their hideout south of Phuket Town.

Heroin suspects open fire to evade police

Untangling the morass of cables on the Patong beach road has been delayed over a year. along three kilometres of Thaweewong Rd. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed with a contractor last year, but since then the project has met some opposition.

The project is estimated to take about 18 months, “But we can’t even estimate when construction will begin until the approval process is complete,” Mr Watchanrin said.

Opposition to the project

stemmed from concerns over how cables will be installed underground, among other factors, he explained.

“The are also concerns over the how the cables are going to be installed and the equipment to be used to carry out the project,” he said.

Patong Mayor Chalermluck Kebsup noted that the project was to start in April last year.

“I wish the PEA would start this project soon. It should have started in April 2016, but it still has not gone ahead.

“I will arrange to meet with the PEA Governor in Bangkok about this. If we are late again in pushing this through, this project might be postponed and not even be started this year,” Mayor Chalermluck added.

POLICE ARRESTED TWO men south of Phuket Town last week after they opened fire at a police checkpoint, they were then hunted down and found in possession of heroin.

The arrests followed two men on a Yamaha Mio motorbike blazing through a checkpoint on Phoonpol Rd at 9:45pm on June 29, said Phuket Provincial Police Chief Inspector Col Akanit Danpitaksan.

“One of them shot at officers to clear their way. Officers gave pursuit and followed the suspects to a townhouse at Moo Baan Sermsap off Wirat Hongyok Rd, and called for backup,” Col Akanit said.

More than 30 officers surrounded the townhouse. Police hailed for the suspects to surrender, while the neighbours came out to investigate.

The suspects opened the front door and surrendered 30 minutes later, Col Akanit said.

The suspects were named as Surat Saeyang, 23, the driver of the motorbike, and his passenger, Wuthichai Ratanaphutiwong, 35, who fired the gun.

Police found Wuthichai in possession of 500mg of heroin, but no drugs were found inside the home. However, officers found a .38 pistol and four bullets in the bathroom.

Seangtang Saelee, 29, who rents the townhouse, was also taken in for questioning.

Surat and Wuthichai now face charges of attempted murder, possession of a Category 1 drug and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.

“We suspect that the two men possessed more than what police found,” Col Akanit said.

“They probably dumped some of the drugs they had on the road during the escape,” he added.

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Body of missing South Korean tourist found POLICE HAVE CONFIRmed that a body found floating in the sea off northern Phuket last Sunday (July 3) is that of missing South Korean tourist Park Siwoo, 28.

Police and the Kusoldharm rescue foundation were alerted by the fishing boat Bumrungthanawa at 2pm that crew members had seen a body floating about seven nautical miles off Mai Khao Beach.

Police and rescue workers headed out on a vessel provided by Sirinath National Park and recovered the body.

“There were no signs of assault or injury on his body, and he was dressed in the same black-andwhite striped shirt and blue shorts that Mr Park was last seen wearing,” said Lt Col

Watcharin Jirattikanwiwat of the Tha Chatchai Police.

Patong Police Deputy Chief Lt Col Somsak Thongkleng concur red, using a photo provided to police showing Mr Park wearing the same clothes.

A relative of Mr Park later for mally identif ied M r Park’s body.

The photo showed Mr Park in an elevator with his girlfriend Hong Garam, 27, also from South Korea, whose body was found early last Wednesday morning (June 29) at Patong Beach, where the couple were staying.

A security guard at the hotel where the couple were staying told police that he saw Ms Hong angrily storm out of the hotel with Mr Park following close behind

The body of South Korean tourist Mr Park was identified by the clothes he was last seen wearing, as seen in this photo of him in an elevator with his girlfriend Hong Garam, 27, whose body was found at Patong Beach last Wednesday (June 29). Photo: Tourist Police at 1:20am, said Col Somsak.

“He saw the couple arguing on the beach, and said he saw Ms Hong walk into the water. Mr Park followed, but neither came out of the water, so he called for help,” he said.

Ms Hong’s body was

discovered near the northern end of Patong Beach shortly before 5am.

“There were no signs of assault or injury on the body (of Ms Hong),” said Maj Patapee Srichay of the Patong Police.

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‘Hundreds of millions of baht’ seized in tour business raids Darawn Naknakhon editor@classactmedia.co.th

M

ore than 100 officers including police, military and antimoney-laundering officials seized 29 boats and 53 buses belonging to companies operating under the Tranlee Travel Co Ltd network of businesses in raids at Rassada and Koh Siray, on the east side of Phuket Town, on Wednesday morning (July 6).

Officials led by Region 8 Police Deputy Commander Col Phorasak Nuannoo led the raid to seize the 29 tour speedboats at the Insee Marine Co Ltd private company pier located near the bridge joining Koh Siray to the mainland, Phuket Provincial Police Chief Col Teeraphol Thipjaroen told The Phuket News.

“The second group, led by Lt Col Pongpop Prasoppichai of the Phuket Provincial Police, raided the offices of T.L Better Way Co Ltd at Koh Siray, which provided bus services for tourists, and where police seized 53 buses,” he said.

A third group, led by Lt Col Rattakhet Munmuang of the Phuket Provincial Police, searched Racha Spa Co Ltd at Phuket Villa 5 in Wichit, where officers seized all documents, including registration licenses and accounting records, he added.

All three teams of officers were armed with warrants

While BBTV starts charging entry fees to access Laem Singh Beach, sunloungers on the sand can easily be seen from the road. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub

BBTV charges for access to beach Even minor nominee sharholders will face the law, Gen Srivara warned. issued by Phuket Provincial Court, Col Teeraphol said.

The raids followed Royal Thai Police Deputy Commissioner Gen Srivara Ransibrahmanakul on Tuesday (July 5) announcing that five of the subcompanies operating under Tranlee Travel Co Ltd, all serving Chinese tour groups, had been shut down.

Gen Srivara was in Phuket to personally receive updates on the investigation into the Tranlee network of companies, following the raid to shut down the Tranlee head office in Phuket on June 16.

“Tranlee CEO, Kritchakorn Rungmongkolnam, or Mr Isam Sainglee, turned himself in after officials had a warrant out for him and raided his company,” Gen Srivara said.

Russian tourist drowns at Naiharn A 28-Y EA R- OLD RUS sian tourist drowned at Naiharn Beach after ignoring red warning flags placed along the shore.

Capt Wuthiwat Liangboonjinda of the Chalong Police was called to investigate the reported drowning at 6:30pm on June 30.

“We arrived at the beach with rescue workers from Rawai Municipality to find the Russian victim, Leonid Petrov, lying face up on the beach. There were no signs of assault or injury on the body.

“We were told that at 6pm the victim and one of his friends went out into the water where red flags were flying. They were about 100 metres from each other,” he said.

“The victim called for help and his friend alerted other people on the beach that there @thephuketnews

Rus sian tourist Leonid Petrov, 28, drowned after ignoring red warning flags along Naiharn Beach. was a problem whilst he tried to rescue him.

“More people joined the rescue effort and five minutes later they were able to bring the victim to shore and administer CPR, but they were unable to save him.

“The man’s body was taken to Vachira Hospital for doctors to confirm the time and cause of death,” he added.

Darawan Naknakhon

“His partner, Weerachai Kampaipraphankul, is wanted by police and still at large, but we believe he still in the Kingdom,” he added.

In the June 16 raid, Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Superintendent Col Saman Chainarong said that “Kritchakorn” (Isam Sainglee) and “Weerachai” were foreigners who had both obtained fake Thai national identification cards in Northern Thailand.

The warrants issued for both men accuse them of staying in Thailand illegally, possession and use of fake identification and using fake identification documents to register tourism businesses.

However, Gen Sriava on Tuesday did not reveal the real name of “Weerachai” or con-

firm the men’s nationalities.

“I have ordered officials to strictly enforce the law and anyone found in connection to this case, regardless whether they are a former politician or an ‘influential person’, all must be investigated and punished accordingly,” he added.

Gen Srivara pointed out that so far officials had seized assets including 117 vehicles, 35 boats and three plots of lands, amounting to “several hundreds of millions of baht.”

“The Anti Money Laundering Office (Amlo) is investigating to find out where the money went and how can it disappear out of the country,” Gen Srivara said.

Even nominee shareholders will face charges, he warned.

BANGKOK BROADCASting & TV Co Ltd (BBTV), the company that broadcasts Thai TV Channel 7, has privatised access to Laem Singh Beach and is now charging B100 per person to cross beachfront land that the company claims to own.

Access across the land is open from 7am to 7pm, effective last Friday (July 1), the company announced with a large sign recently posted at the site.

The sign notes that BBTV claims the land in question through “land deed nos. 6868, 6869, 7828 and 7829”, and is a plaintiff in “the court case red no 1153/2558, 1157/25581165/2558 and 1240/2558”.

“Shopowners” named in the “above court cases” will be provided identification to present to security guards who will patrol the area and collect fees from people wanting to cross the land, the sign announced.

Conflict over access to

Laem Singh Beach came to a head in 2012, when local residents and “shopowners” protested a corrugated fence installed around the land.

The protesters called in popular graft buster Col Dutsadee Arayawut, at the time the secretary-general of the Public Sector AntiCorruption Commission (PACC), to appeal to him to investigate ownership of land.

That call for “justice” was followed by Seri Lapmak, deputy chief of the Kamala Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor), in 2014 noting that bars and other structures on Laem Singh Beach had been ordered to be removed as part of the beach clean-up campaign as ordered by the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO).

However, sun loungers and umbrellas on Laem Singh Beach could easily be seen from the road last Sunday (July 3).

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Chinese tour bus crash driver fined THE DRIVER OF A TOUR bus that crashed on Patong Hill on June 26 while taking 25 Chinese tourists to their resort on Soi Eden in Patong has been found guilty of reckless driving and fined B1,000.

The crash, the second of its kind in two days that weekend, happened at 7:10pm when a tour bus with Nakhon Pathom plates was transporting the group of tourists back to their resort following a trip to Phang Nga and crashed into a roadside traffic barrier on Patong hill, near the entrance to Sea Pearl Villas.

Lt Col Jongserm Precha, an investigator from Patong Police, told The Phuket News that the bus driver, 30-year-old Tritrong Chuthai, had been found guilty of reckless driving and fined B1,000.

He added that all six of the Chinese tourists who had been treated for minor scrapes as a result of the crash had since left hospital, and that hospital expenses had been taken care of by the tour company.

Chanida Summast

A

landslide under a newly laid section of road on the westbound section of Kata hill [4028] has left the road with large cracks, forcing officials to close one of the two lanes due to it being a danger to motorists.

Pichak Sornchana, Deputy Director of the Highways Department Phuket Office, confirmed to The Phuket News last Friday (July 1) that officials were aware of the damage and that temporary measures had been taken to stop further damage occurring.

“We were notified of the damage on June 18 and at that time we placed traffic cones on site so that traffic avoided the damaged section of road.

Concrete barriers later replaced the cones, and shuttering was placed where the landslide had occurred to stop it sliding any further,” he said.

Mr Pichak explained that the damage occurred when the Phuket Provincial Electric Authority (PPEA) were installing new electricity pylons alongside the road.

“The PPEA dug at about 10 spots alongside the road to install the pylons, and the foundations for the pylons had already been prepared.

However, as they went further towards the bend, when they dug out the soil, the land slipped and caused the road to crack.

The damage occurred after PPEA workers excavated along the side of the road in preparation to install new electricity pylons. Photos: Eakkapop Thongtub “The PEA were immediately ordered to stop their work until the matter is resolved,” he said.

“There is a high possibility that some of the road will collapse. In fact, I have already been told that some has collapsed already.

“We held a meeting with PPEA officials today (July 1) and they have admitted that the damage happened due to their work. They have confirmed that the cost of the repairs will be paid by them.

“Both departments have agreed to work together to find the best solution to fix this within seven days, we will know by then how much it will cost the PPEA to repair this part of the road.

“In the meantime, motorists heading from Chalong to Kata should proceed with caution because only one lane is open for the time being,” he added.

Taxis ask for new rank TAXI DRIVERS IN RAwai have applied to have a new taxi rank at Pakbang Beach, Rawai Municipality revealed on Monday (July 4).

The proposal was floated at the Rawai Municipality council meeting last Friday (July 1), Rawai Deputy Mayor Phisit Paphakityotphat told The Phuket News.

“Rawai already has about 10 taxi ranks throughout the area, and now local taxi drivers are asking permission to set up a new one at Pakbang Beach,” he said.

“Pakbang Beach, to the west of Rawai Beach, has grown over the years and drivers are constantly asked to serve tourists travelling to and from there,” he added.

However, Mr Phisit explained that Rawai Munici-

Pakbang Beach, to the west of Rawai Beach, has grown over the years, prompting taxi drivers to apply to serve the area.

Photo: Google Maps pality had no authority to approve a new taxi rank.

“Only the Phuket Provincial Transportation Committee can approve such a request,” he said, adding, “But I can say right now that only legally registered taxis will be allowed to operate at the new rank – if it is approved.”

The Phuket News

Man, 18, charged with murder of friend AN 18-YEAR-OLD MAN has been arrested for the murder of another 18-year-old, who was stabbed to death in Koh Kaew on June 26.

The man, named by police as Min (not his real name) was accompanied by his parents when he surrendered at Phuket City Police Station at 3pm on June 28. Min presented to police the knife he used to stab his friend, Manasanan Bugna.

Min admitted to police that the two had a heated argument prior to the incident,

but he said the deceased had tried to stab him first.

Police also seized from Min the clothing he was wearing when the incident took place.

Following the incident, police said they had been able to identify a suspect who they believed was responsible for the murder, which occurred after Mr Manasanan had received a call from friend.

Mr Manasanan had told his parents he was going to meet the friend and was last seen by them leaving his home on his motorbike.

Lt Col Nabadin Pangleesen from the Phuket City Police led a team to investigate the murder and were looking for one suspect, Min, who was known to be a friend of Mr Manasanan.

Col Nabadin said, “After we gathered all information and evidence we asked Phuket Provincial Court to issue an arrest warrant for Min. “Min told us they were friends, but he admitted to us that he stabbed him because he was mad at him at the time.”

In his statement, Min said

that he and Mr Manasanan were talking behind his house when they started having an argument.

He alleged that Mr Manasanan pulled out a knife and tried to stab him, but missed.

They fought, and when Mr Manasanan dropped the knife, Min picked it up and stabbed Mr Manasanan many times until he fell to the ground.

Min said he then panicked and fled the scene.

Min has been charged with murder.

Darawan Naknakhon

Min, 18, admitted to police that he stabbed his friend many times until he collapsed to the ground. thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Crackdown targets ‘illegal hotel’ rentals Suthicha Sirirat editor@classactmedia.co.th

P

rovincial authorities have launched a campaign to rid the island of illegal holiday rentals with local officials and community leaders compiling a register of all rental accommodations in their respective areas.

“They will search their areas and question local residents about any rental accommodations in their areas,” Phuket Vice Governor Chokdee Amornwat revealed on Tuesday (July 5).

The move is the first foray under the new “Phuket Hotel Model” policy, which aims to make Phuket a “model province” from which all other provinces in the country can follow in handling rentals of less than 30 days that breach the Hotel Act, he said.

“According to our records, less than 50,000 rooms are legally registered as hotel rooms in Phuket, but our investigations so far shows that Phuket has more than 100,000 illegal

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Vice Governor Chokdee Amornwat says officials have proposed changes to allow small rentals under the Hotel Act. hotel rooms,” he added.

Under the “Phuket Hotel Model” policy, the government has a three-pronged strategy, V/Gov Chokdee explained.

“First are the places that already can operate and provide services similar to a hotel. They can register as a hotel right away because they do not have building, land

or environmental issues to contend with first in order to satisfy the requirements under the Hotel Act,” he said.

“If these places want to provide rentals of less than 30 days, they can register themselves as a hotel, or else they can face the penalties under the Hotel Act,” he added.

The second group are

places whose owners want to offer rentals of less than 30 days but must first improve the building structure or the services provided in order to register as a hotel, he said.

“These places must make the required improvements and register as a hotel – or else face the punishment under the Hotel Act,” he warned.

“Last are places that cannot be registered as a hotel due to the requirements of the Hotel Act. They might have rent out their properties only on a monthly basis instead,” he added.

However, V/Gov Chokdee said, “We are trying to convince the Interior Ministry to consider to change or revise the law to allow businesses to operate as a hotel if they have more than four rooms but currently are unable to be registered as a hotel,” he said.

“We propose that places with more than four rooms, maybe up to 20 rooms, can be registered in some way so they will fall under the Hotel Act,” he concluded.

PHUKET NEWS

5

A Cherng Talay Traffic Police officer holds up the winning tickets, registered by local resident Sasina Nukeaw.

Local resident wins B6 million in lottery A PHUKET WOMAN HAS won B6 million in the government lottery.

Sasina Nukeaw, a 40-yearold local resident at Srisoonthorn, in Thalang, said she bought her winning ticket from Ban Kien market in Thalang.

Her winning lottery number, drawn on July 1, was 082460. As she bought two tickets, she won two prizes of B3 million, giving her a total of B6 million.

Upon winning, ticket owners usually report to their local police station to record ownership of the ticket, for verification in case it is stolen. Ms Sasina, likewise, registered her ticket with the Cherng Talay Police Station

last Saturday (July 2).

Lt Phisit Nuphayan of Cherng Talay Police told The Phuket News that Ms Sasina did not say much.

“She just recorded her winning ticket, then left,” he said.

In Thailand, lottery tickets are drawn the first and the 16th of each month. Every ticket costs B80 and needs to purchased from agents, who receive the tickets from retailers.

Thailand’s lottery is hugely popular despite a low payout ratio of 60 per cent. The Thai Government Lottery Office prints out and sells tickets to wholesalers. You can find all the lottery results at www. thailotteryresults.com Eakkapop Thongtub

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Paradise Beach appeal delays demolition order Suthicha Sirirat editor@classactmedia.co.th

Officials arrived to find three buildings under construction on the island. Photo: DMCR

Hamburger island raid nets trespass THE ROYAL FORESTRY Department will pursue trespass charges against an unnamed “claimant” for encroachment after three buildings were found under construction on Tanan Island, better known by local sailors as “Hamburger Island”, between Koh Lone and Ao Yon off Phuket’s southeast coast.

Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) officials inspected the island on June 28 after receiving a tip-off from the Phuket Provincial Office of Natural Resources and Environment.

Joining the inspection were officers from the Royal Forestry Department.

“There were some workers still carrying out construction when we arrived,” said Pongsapak Aiabsakul, Chief of the Phuket office of the DMCR’s Conservation of Resources, Coastal Forests and Mangroves Division.

“We found three shelters and three bathrooms in a shelter made from wood and leaves. All shelters were still under construction,” he said.

Mr Pongsapak said that a man who he named only as “Mr Chaiyasit” was leading the construction.

“Mr Chaiyasit said that the construction was on 2 ngan 60 wah (1,040sqm) that he said belonged to people in Wichit,” Mr Pongsapak explained.

“But this area is Royal Forest land, which is impossible to build anything on, so these structures are illegal,” he said.

“This person claiming to own this land will be charged with trespassing on Royal Forest land under Section 55 of the Forest Act. “This case has been handed to Wichit Police, so those involved will be questioned by police,” Mr Pongsapak concluded.

Chanida Summast

T

he management of Paradise Beach Co Ltd has filed an appeal against a demolition order issued by Patong Municipality, giving the popular beach club venue a reprieve of about 60 days, Patong Mayor Chalermluck Kebsup has confirmed.

The move follows officers from the Royal Thai Navy posting an official order on May 23 for all buildings be removed from the site at Paradise Beach within 30 days – or face have them demolished by Patong Municipality.

“Paradise Beach management filed an appeal on June 9, but it arrived at my office on June 20, three days before the due date of the first notice that we posted at the site,” Mayor Chalermluck told The Phuket News on Tuesday (July 5).

“After reviewing the appeal, I sent it to Provincial Hall on Monday (July 4) for

Paradise Beach has staved off a demolition order issued by Patong Municipality for about 60 days, Patong Mayor Chlermluck said on Tuesday. Photo: Suthicha Sirirat an investigating committee to examine. The committee should get it by this Friday (July 8),” she said.

“The review process normally takes about 60 days, so we will know by then whether we can proceed with the demolition or not.”

Central to the appeal is that management at Paradise Beach Co Ltd claim that the

demolition order was issued on the understanding by Patong Municipality that the beach club’s buildings are illegally on SorPorKor land, which is reserved by law for poor farmers and regulated by the Agricultural Land Reform Office (Alro).

“However, Paradise Beach management claim that the buildings are on a different

plot that has been issued a SorKor 1 land document,” Ms Chalermluck said.

Patong Municipality refused to issue a building permit for the site as officials believed the structures were to be built on the SorPorKor land, she added.

No representatives at Paradise Beach Co Ltd were available for comment.

Workers camp raid leads to 12 arrests IMMIGRATION OFFICIALS arrested 12 migrant workers for living in Thailand illegally following a raid on a workers camp on Trang Rd in Phuket Town last week.

The raid on June 29, was lead by Capt Sathaporn Wajarat, Chief of Internal Security Operation Command (Isoc) Phuket branch, and included officials from various government departments at 6:15pm.

The camp is just metres away from Phuket Provincial Hall.

“We were told that about 100 workers were living at the camp, but when we car-

The raid came following complaints from local residents Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub ried out the raid a number of them had not returned back from work. Those that were there were checked for work permits and identification cards,” Capt Sathaporn said.

Twelve migrant workers without work permits were taken to Immigration Police.

Capt Sathaporn explained that the raid came after local residents filed a number com-

plaints at the Damrongdhama Centre (Ombudsman’s Office) stating that a lot of rubbish had been dumped around the camp and that the rubbish was causing a bad stench and an increase in the number of mosquitoes.

“We discovered that there were too many people living in this tiny area. The ground is always damp due to the time of year and rubbish has been dumped all across the area. The toilets were also unhygienic,” Capt Sathaporn concluded.

Eakkapop Thongtub

Chinese tourist dies in resort pool

A 36-YEAR-OLD CHINESE tourist has died after being pulled from a resort swimming pool in Kamala last Saturday night (July 2). Police have yet to confirm whether the man drowned.

Staff at Patong Hospital notified Lt Col Somnuek Damkaew of the Kamala Police at 10:31pm that they were unable to revive a Chinese tourist, Ren Zhifeng.

“Doctors pronounced the man dead on arrival and confirmed that there were no injuries on his body,” Col Somnuek said.

Mr Ren and his family

checked in to the hotel on Friday (July 1), he added.

“Around 9pm on Saturday, he asked his friends and family to join him and his son for a swim at the pool,” Col Somnuek explained.

Mr Ren and his son went into the pool first while the others were still getting ready in their rooms.

“One family member said they arrived five minutes later and saw Mr Ren at the bottom of the pool. When they suspected something was wrong, they dived in and pulled him out,” Col Somnuek said.

Attempts to revive Mr

When his family members arrived, they found Mr Ren at the bottom of the pool. Photo: Darawan Naknakhon Ren while waiting for the ambulance to arrive were unsuccessful.

“Doctors said that he probably went into shock and then drowned,” Col Somnuek

noted. “However, they will examine the body to find the true cause of death even though the family do not suspect anything else.”

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Handle like eggs

PHUKET NEWS

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Koh Khai islands open to tours – for now Chanida Summast editor@classactmedia.co.th

F

ollowing concerns raised with The Phuket News that tourists were still being taken to the three Koh Khai islands (Egg Islands) off the east coast of Phuket that were believed to have been closed to tours, officials have confirmed that the islands are still open for tourism but with restricted areas of activities.

Suchart Rattanareangsri, Director of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) Phuket office, said, “Tourist can continue their water activities at Koh Khai Nok, Koh Khai Nai and Koh Khai Nui but only in the areas set out by our department. However, their activities shouldn’t not have any impact on the coral reefs.

“We haven’t closed the three islands yet, but we are monitoring tourists’ activities and have advised tour companies to promote better marine tourism,” he said.

In May, Thai newspaper Thairat quoted DMCR Deputy Director Sakda Wicheinsil as

Hospital staff with Nong Baimon, 3.8kg. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub

Newborn arrives in Chalong Circle traffic

Officials have confirmed that the three Koh Khai islands are still open for tourism but with restricted areas of activities. Photo: Supplied saying that officials will monitor the situation from June-August, and if the marine environment deteriorates further, then the three islands will be closed.

Meanwhile, Nares Choophueng, a fisheries expert from the DMCR added, “We have posted signs to let tourists and tour operators know what they can and cannot do while visiting these islands, and we will continue working to enforce the rules.

“If any tourists or tour operators fail to adhere to these rules, the maximum penalty they will face is up to one year in prison, a fine of up to B100,000 or both,” he said.

“The areas within the large orange buoys are designated areas for boats to moor and drop off tourists so they can partake in their activities. Tourists can snorkel within the buoys which have been placed in areas away from the reefs.

Phuket sisters up with Suining PHUKET HAS GAINED one more “sister city” from China after representatives from Suining, in the Chinese province Sichuan, signed a friendship Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on June 27.

Chinese delegates led

by Suining City Deputy Mayor Hu Jiazheng met with Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada and other officials to sign the MoU at Provincial Hall.

Among the Chinese representatives were China International Friendship Association (CIFA) Sichuan President Zhao Ping, CIFA Sichuan Secretary Xiang Qionghua and CIFA Suining President Luo Qinglun.

Phuket officials present at the signing were Phuket Provincial Public Relations Chief Buthsaya Jaipiem, Phuket Provincial Passport Office Chief Supachok Yensrong, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket Deputy Director Uthit Limsakul, Phuket City Mayor Somjai Suwansupana, Prince of Songkla University (PSU) Phuket Campus Deputy Director Prof Puwadon Butrat and Chinese Consulate in @thephuketnews

Suining City Deputy Mayor Hu Jiazheng (left) shakes hands with Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada after the signing of the friendship MoU at Provincial Hall on June 27. Photo: PR Dept Phuket Deputy Consul General Wang Huijuan.

“The MoU we signed today indicates the foreign affairs relations between Phuket and Suining, China, and it confirms our relationship. After we met and discussed the possibility of being sister cities, we decided to go ahead with the idea,” Governor Chamroen said after the meeting.

“We both agreed that being sister cities will benefit us and that we can help each other to move forward to the future together and boost

tourism together.

“This also will be an opportunity for us to seek knowledge and exchange many aspects of culture, businesses, marketing, education and more to help us improve our human resources,” he said.

Phuket is already twinned with nine other places worldwide: Bali; Nice in France; Port Blair in the Andaman Islands; Las Vegas; the Crimea in Ukraine; Nakhodka in Russia; and Hainan, Yantai and Ningxia in China.

The Phuket News

“Next month we will put more buoys out to protect more of the reefs,” Mr Nares added.

On May 25, marine officials banned tourist activities at coral reefs near the three islands to prevent further damage to corals at the popular tour sites.

They have ordered the removal of facilities and structures used for tourist activities from all three of the islands which are all located a handful of kilometres from Phuket.

AN 18-YEAR-OLD WOMan gave birth to a healthy 3.8 kilo baby in a car last Friday (July 1) with the help of her brother-in-law and a Chalong traffic cop.

The baby, a girl now named Nong Baimon, came into the world at 9:30am, weighing a healthy 3.8kg.

Chalong Traffic Police Chief Snr Sgt Maj Somboon Khanpetch explained that while he was on duty at Chalong Circle, a Honda City had stopped and its driver was calling for help.

“The driver shouted that there was a woman on the back seat ready to give birth.

I ordered all traffic at the circle to move aside to let the vehicle pass to go to Chalong Hospital (Chalong Accident & Emer-

gency Centre), which is about 500 metres from the circle,” he said.

While Snr Sgt Maj Somboon escorted the vehicle on his motorbike towards the medical facility, the mother imminently-to-be, Chadaporn Kongsamoot, 18, from Trang, was suffering severe labour pain. She could wait no longer and gave birth on the back seat.

Just as the party arrived, doctors and nurses rushed to assist the new mother and her newborn and took them inside.

“Ms Chadaporn and her baby, named Nong Baimon and weighing 3.8kg, are both doing fine and are both healthy,” said a member of staff from the hospital.

Eakkapop Thongtub

Opinion 8

OPINION

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Executive Editor

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

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editor3@classactmedia.co.th Originally from the UK; Has four years experience as editor and reporter for Phuketindex.com magazine and website, and InPhuket magazine.

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EDITORIAL

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

Braced for eternal congestion 1

T

raffic congestion in Phuket will only worsen as long as public funds continue to get allocated towards expensive roadworks and not towards public transport solutions, which are sorely needed.

Much of the island’s increased traffic over the past few years can in part be explained as “induced demand”, which is a correlation between expanded roads and an increased number of cars.

The situation is only aggravated by national policies to bolster automobile purchases, while simultaneously leaving public transport out of the equation.

The urgent need for modern, dependable buses in Phuket has long been expressed on internet forums, and was even echoed as a “minority” voice at the public hearings for the respective underpass projects.

It has been the will of poli-

ticians and contractors that has continued to win over the “majority” through fallacious rhetoric, of the tune “the shortterm pain will be worth the long-term gain”.

Yet the only clearly measurable “gain” Phuket can claim to date since such projects broke ground has been in the number of vehicles added to roads – more than 54,000.

According to vehicle registration data from the Land Transport Department, in December 2012 there were a total of 394,720 vehicles registered in Phuket. By February, 2016 that number rose nearly 14 per cent to 449,453 vehicles.

Over the same period, the number of new private sedans and motorbikes jumped 26% and 10% – to 102,918 and 282,229 total registrations, respectively – private taxis and tour buses surged 239% and 73%, to 5,574 and 6,304 registrations, respectively.

Yet, over the same period, the number of “fixed-route buses” in Phuket – which includes interprovincial and intra-provincial public routes – remained relatively unchanged, embarrassingly inadequate at just over 400 registrations total.

Keep in mind, these figures don’t even account for all the vehicles in Phuket that are registered to provinces.

Such limited options – which include the antiquated pink po thong and other privatelyoperated songtaews – might be good for the odd, nostalgic selfie, but simply do not suffice as dependable transport for Phuket’s expanding mass.

As it is, more expensive roadworks are prioritised on the short- and mid-term agendas, absent of public buses, which means our commutes are sure to get longer as the quality of life in “paradise” declines. Patience perforce!

2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Phuket condo owners warned ‘holiday rentals’ less than 30 days risks fines, jail time Bangkok broadcaster closes off Phuket beach access, charges ‘entry fee’ Body of Korean woman washes up on Patong Beach, rescue teams search for missing boyfriend Body of missing South Korean tourist found off Phuket Chinese tourist dies in Phuket resort pool Russian tourist drowns at Phuket’s Naiharn Beach Local resident hits the jackpot with B6 million lottery win Officials confirm three islands off Phuket’s east coast remain open to tours Phuket Airport runwayextension plan gains momentum Kata hill westbound reduced to one lane following road collapse

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

HAVE YOUR SAY On surf and turf Re: Body of missing South Korean tourist found off Phuket A tragic bit of fun in the surf gone horribly wrong..

Unfortunately a lot of these Chinese and Koreans tourists have no idea about the sea and rips etc. especially at this time of the year. slippery snake

If it ain’t broke...

Re: Phuket Airport runwayextension plan gains momentum Here’s a thought, just leave the airport as it is- it is sufficient.

Start getting in 800+ people on one A-380 flight and the entire airport infrastructure will need upgrading. Imagine waiting for a taxi along with hundreds of others – or is it really to support the taxi industry? Why not simply resist the capitalist urge to expand, stop the greed, and give the environment a break.

Christy Sweet Boeing 747 use this airport, the only larger passenger

aircraft is an Airbus A380, I don’t know whether the runway is too short but I doubt it. In any event there are many that argue the A380 is a white elephant. Yes it works for the Middle East airlines hubs to Europe but Phuket?

Why would you spend all that money to accommodate one large aircraft of uncertain future?

Andy This sounds like pork. The B747 is now obsolete and its four engines make it uneconomical, except in Cargo configuration. The runway is easily long enough already for fully laden A330s and B777s to take off. These are the aircraft that took over the B747 routes as they become uneconomical.

Sir Burr

Do my eyes deceive me?

Re: Phuket taxis ask for new rank in Rawai Does the photo show public land, illegally occupied, also with tables and chairs at

beach, just behind the municipality office in Rawai? Wow! The municipality parking lot is a excellent location for taxis to wait for customers.

Kurt

one pays them the B100 to go there... slippery snake

Well, we don’t want it anyway!

Re: Phuket Opinion: Wired over roadside ‘results’ The Rat’s Nest of wiring that is “standard practice” here is as costly as it is embarrassing.

Troubleshooting a simple cable problem can be so horrific that it’s easier to just pull in a new one. As a professional electrical engineer I can tell you fixing these wire balls is not easy and not cheap.

The best prescription, and the easiest, is to simply stop making new wire balls! I watched just t h i s we ek a b r e at ht a king mess being made over

by Central Festival... We need to upgrade our national wiring practices in order to be competitive in Asean, not just to make it pretty.

Bad cabling makes for bad telecom, and our weak telecom infrastructure in Thailand favours other nations for high-tech business.

Greg the Engineer

Re: Bangkok broadcaster closes off Phuket beach access, charges ‘entry fee’ Thai corporate greed at its worst... “our beach, and you can’t go there unless you pay us”. I wish all hotels and tourist counters would boycott this place... let them have it. And yes CC... it is a pretty beach, but fill it up with the normal crowd that goes there (same despised group of idiots that we commonly see on big bikes speeding everywhere while shirtless that don’t follow rules or respect local customs), and throw in 8 or 9 jets-kis... the place sucks big time.

Ed Sanders Looks like a horrible beach anyway, full of rocks, no good for swimming... much nicer beaches to go to... I hope no

Beauty, and sizing up bad cabling

Have an opinion? Comment on stories at thephuketnews.com thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

THAILAND NEWS

Vindictive boss ‘Ying Kai’ can be questioned, say CSD BANGKOK

A

court on Tuesday (July 5) gave permission to the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) to summon for questioning the woman suspected of lodging a series of false complaints that jailed her former employees, accusing them of stealing money and valuables.

Her former employees were detained because they were not able to secure bail, prompting a volunteer lawyer to step in to fight their cases in court.

The CSD initially sought an arrest warrant for their employer, Monta Yokrattanakan, 56, also known as Ying Kai, but the Criminal Court found a summons should be sufficient at this point because the suspect showed no signs of trying to f lee, said Col Chakhrit Sawatdi, deputy chief of the CSD. The investigators will summon the suspect for questioning, said Col Chakhrit.

Acting city police chief Sanit Mahathavorn has been

Sukanya Sirimuang, 54, released on bail yesterday (July 5), embraces her daughter Wanichaya Boonsoonheng, 21. Photo: Patipat Janthong leading an investigation into reports detailing nine cases in which Ms Monta filed complaints with Pracha Chuen Police Station alleging her former employees were involved in embezzlement, fraud, damaging her property and theft.

After sifting through her files, Lt Gen Sanit said police will conclude as soon as possible whether the complaints

are based on false accusations.

He also instructed the chief of the police station to carry out a probe to find out whether any of the investigators handling the cases had been reckless or negligent, leading to botched probes.

Those found guilty of negligence will face disciplinary action, he said.

Also on Tuesday, the

Thai ‘third sex’ to get exclusive prison BANGKOK THE DEPARTMENT OF Corrections is preparing to separate lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) prisoners from other prisoners to ensure their safety and security.

Kobkiat Kasiwiwat, the deputy permanent secretary for justice, said LGBT inmates could be kept in dedicated facilities to protect them from being abused by other prisoners.

Min Buri Prison would be used as a pr ison for LGBT prisoners under a pilot scheme, he added. Mr Kobkiat was speaking after a meeting held on Tuesday (July 5) at Pattaya Remand Prison which was attended by officials from the Office of the Ombudsman, Justice Ministry and human rights activists.

He said domestic and foreign human rights networks had called on the ministry to set up a prison for LGBT prisoners. Transgender prisoners in particular feared they would fall victim to abuse when they were locked up with male prisoners. Transgenders are usually sent to @thephuketnews

Activists campaign for LGBT rights in Siam Square in this photo taken in May. Photo: Jiraporn Kuhakan male prisons, as they are sorted according to the name on their ID cards.

There are 4,448 prisoners who have agreed to be classified as LGBT: 2,258 females, 2,156 males and 34 transgender people, according to the Department of Corrections.

LGBT inmates account for about 1 per cent of the total of 300,000 prisoners.

Pattaya Remand Prison chief Chartpon Arphasut, who also attended the meeting, said LGBT inmates could be more

vulnerable to sexual abuse.

He said transgender prisoners are separated from male prisoners at Pattaya Remand Prison, adding they were often found to be victims of abuse by male inmates. But they work alongside male prisoners in the prison.

At Pattaya Remand Prison, health workers give physical examinations to transgender inmates who are asked to identify their desired gender, he added.

Bangkok Post

Criminal Court approved a request to release on bail Sukanya Sirimuang, 54, a former employee of Ms Monta who was detained at the Central Women’s Correctional Institution for allegedly stealing B3 million worth of valuables from Ms Monta.

The request was filed by lawyer Songkan Atchariyasap, chairman of the Network

Against Acts that Destroy Kingdom, Religion and Monarchy, with a surety of B200,000 from the Justice Ministry’s so-called justice fund, which supports suspects who cannot afford the legal costs.

Mr Songkan said he will today petition the Lawyers Council of Thailand (LCT) to help all the victims who have had theft complaints lodged against them by Ms Monta.

He said he intended to petition the LCT to file both criminal and civil suits against Ms Monta while seeking to reopen criminal cases, and those pending court hearings.

Ms Sukanya was accused

by Ms Monta of stealing cash and valuables worth about B3 million last year after Ms Sukanya refused to go to Hong Kong for work.

There are at least five more cases still pending legal proceedings that the CSD is investigating, said Mr Songkan, adding that CSD investigators are now gathering more evidence and speaking to witnesses in Mae Hong Son. Bangkok Post

9

Swede found dead in Pattaya condo PATTAYA A 62-YEAR-OLD SWedish man was found dead with his head in a bucket of water and bruising on his body at a condominium room in Pattaya beach city in the early hours of Wednesday (July 6).

The dead man (name withheld pending notification of relatives) was found in his room on the 10th floor of a condominium building in Bang Lamung district, said Lt Temtrong Rodsiri of Pattaya Police Station.

A handwritten letter was found on a desk near his bed.

The dead man was to be sent to the Police General Hospital’s Institute of Forensic Medicine for a post-mortem examination to find out the cause of death.

Bangkok Post

10 THAILAND NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Body scanners to be installed at six airports BANGKOK

A policeman checks the crime scene where three teenagers were shot dead on Monday morning (July 4). Photo: Supapong Chaolan

Five killed in Surat Thani drug and teen violence SURAT THANI

FI V E PEOPLE W ER E slain in two separate incidents early on Monday morning (July 4), police in Surat Thani said.

Lt Col Prasit Kaewkim, of Khun Thale Police Station said the first incident occurred about 12:30am, when two men were stabbed to death at a house in Khao Tok in Khiansa district.

They were identified as Nathawat Nuimai, 23, and Anusorn Chucheep, 23.

Police arrested Waeasman Waenawae, 28, of Narathiwat, who admitted he was the killer but said he acted in self-defence.

Wae-asman said the two came to his house to collect B6,000 for drugs.

Nathawat was threatening him with a knife, he said.

Wae -asman said he snatched the knife from Mr Nathawat and stabbed him twice in the back and then turned to stab Mr Anusorn four times in the abdomen and the chest, killing both of them.

Shor tly af ter wards, Surachart Tolee, 18, Veerayut Tobai, 16, and Theerapong Tomad, 16, were shot dead on a road in Tha Thong Mai in Kanchanadit district.

Police said they were looking for the attacker.

Bangkok Post

T

he Airports of Thailand Plc (AoT) will upgrade screening systems at six airports nationwide to enhance airport security standards.

AoT president Nitinai Sirismatthakar n said the agency planned to replace several security detection devices at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Hat Yai airports.

Walk-through metal detectors will be replaced with full body scanners which will be able to spot both metal and non-metallic objects, weapons and explosives, concealed under clothing.

After the upgrades there will be a total of 32 body scanners.

Of them, 20 will be stationed at Suvarnabhumi airport, three at Don Mueang, four at Phuket, two in Chiang Mai, one in Chiang Rai and two in Hat Yai. Besides the full-body scanners, current X-ray ma-

The full-body scanners will be able to spot both metal and non-metallic objects, weapons and explosives, concealed under clothing. Photo: David Prasad/Flickr chines, which rely on constant visual supervision to screen carry-on baggage will also be replaced with 34 new detection devices, called Advanced Technology X-ray, which will be able to detect and identify hidden explosive objects.

Mr Nitinai said airport development and expansion plans, designed to cope with an influx of passengers, will be conducted simultaneously with the security upgrade.

He said the AoT aimed

to increase the six airports’ total capacity from 83.5 million passengers a year to 190 million over the next five years. Buildings in the airports’ premises will also be designed to serve commercial purposes.

The commercial areas of Phuket airport will be doubled which will generate up to 50 per cent more revenue while at Suvarnabhumi airport, the ratio of non-aviation revenue to aviation revenue

will change from 40:60 to 50:50 by 2020, he said.

As for Don Mueang airport, if the 33,000 square metres of commercial space in Terminal 2 were fully occupied, it would generate about B1 billion baht more than the B1.5 billion it currently generates a year.

Mr Nitinai said the developments and upgrades at the airports will cost about B194 billion.

Bangkok Post

Police begin prosecution of Dhammajayo’s human shields PATHUM THANI PATHUM THANI POLICE are prosecuting followers of Phra Dhammajayo for blocking attempts by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) to arrest the embattled abbot and for illegally organising a rally to support him.

Maj Gen Thaworn Khaosa-ard, commander of Pathum Thani police, told reporters on Tuesday (July 5) that DSI interrogators lodged complaints about the obstruction of their search of Wat Phra Dhammakaya in Khlong Luang district of Pathum Thani in the attempted arrest of Phra Dhammajayo on June 16.

The abbot was charged with laundering money and receiving stolen property in connection with the B20 billion embezzlement at Klongchan Credit Union Cooperative.

Maj Gen Thaworn said police were handling nine cases of obstruction after crowds gathered and vehicles including backhoes and trucks were parked across the gates of the temple, and barbed wire

Supporters of Phra Dhammajayo rally in front of Wat Phra Dhammakaya on May 29. Police have summoned the leader of the gathering for prosecution. Photo: Apichit Jinakul was installed on the fence.

The activities apparently blocked DSI staff, he said.

Seven cases concern the blockage of public roads and the seizure of six vehicles.

Another case dealt with the use of barbed wire and police plan to press a charge of illegal possession of military warfare equipment.

The other case concerned illegal assembly, the obstruction of DSI officials and as-

sisting a wrongdoer. Police arrested one person and were gathering evidence to arrest more, Maj Gen Thaworn said.

Police also summoned Virasak Hadda, president of the Khlong Sam Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor), to hear a charge of organising an unauthorised demonstration at a gate of the temple on May 29, to express support for Phra Dhammajayo.

Bangkok Post thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

ASIA NEWS 11

Tackling a life in limbo

Refugees in Indonesia band together to educate children INDONESIA

M

ahboob Jafari had barely seen the inside of a classroom, let alone taught in one, before he arrived in Indonesia as a refugee fleeing persecution in Afghanistan.

T he 19-yea r- old now teaches English at a pioneering school in the mountains south of Jakarta, where refugees from war-torn corners of the globe are banding together to educate their children.

Founded by refugees, for refugees, this unique initiative is giving these children a chance to go to school while they wait years for resettlement to a new country.

“Years ago, when I came to Indonesia, I could not imagine that one day I would study in such a school like this one,” 14-year-old Ali Riad from Iraq said at the Refugee Learning Nest in Cisarua.

“In the future I want to be a doctor and help people.”

The school, which marked its one-year anniversary in March, has become a source of immense pride among the migrant community in hilly Cisarua, once a key transit point on the largely closed people-smuggling route to Australia.

Its 58 students study in four brightly-painted classrooms, borrow books from a small library and play football at lunchtime on a basic pitch constructed by the parents.

Nearly two dozen volunteers, all refugees themselves, teach mathematics, English, computer studies and art to students age six to 18.

As the children depart in the afternoon, their parents arrive for English classes – a top priority for fami-

@thephuketnews

Refugee children attend a school in Cisarua, West Java, in a mountainous area south of Jakarta, where refugees from war-torn corners of the globe are banding together to educate their children. Photo: Bay Ismoyo/AFP lies awaiting resettlement to new homes in countries like Canada, New Zealand, and the United States.

There are 13,745 refugees and asylum seekers registered with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Indonesia, including nearly 2,700 children of school age.

Although tech nically refugee children can attend Indonesian schools, very few do, UNHCR senior protection officer Jeffrey Savage said.

Language barriers, a lack of available spaces, registration problems and transport costs hinder enrolment.

The vast majority of refugee children in Indonesia go without school for years.

Some are already far behind for their age, having spent a lifetime on the move.

The pupils at Learning Nest are from Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, Iraq and Sri Lanka. Abbas Hussaini, one of the school’s founders, said

the students were divided by age and ability but some “had no education before they came here”.

“They started at zero, from the beginning,” he said, gesturing to a group of students reciting the alphabet for their Afghan teacher.

For the teachers, volunteering helps alleviate the anxiety and boredom rife in refugee transit towns like Cisarua. Once registered with the UN refugee agency, there’s little for asylum seekers to do but wait, unable to work or study.

Jafari, who fled Afghanistan after his uncle was murdered by the Taliban, said the four months he spent idle in Cisarua before volunteering “was like four years”.

“No job, nothing to do but play football,” Jafari, from Afghanistan’s persecuted Shiite Hazara minority, said.

“But this is an opportunity.

Every refugee in here should use their time, because they’re

not going to get it back.”

Other refugee communities around Cisarua are independently setting up their own education programmes, with four schools now operating in the area.

All are backed initially

by a grant from a foreign charity, which covers rent for a school building and other basic costs.

But beyond that, everything falls to the community.

Parents pack lunches and maintain the school grounds, while volunteers prepare classes, manage finances and oversee administrative issues.

“We think they’re absolutely fantastic, and we encourage more of this,” Savage said.

The Learning Nest is already at capacity, Abbas said. Twelve students are on a waiting list as the school seeks much-needed donations for an additional classroom and learning materials.

There are still far more refugee children at home than in schools. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM), which assists refugees with housing and other essential needs, applauded community-run initiatives but stressed they only reached a handful of children in need.

“The bigger picture is that there are thousands,”

IOM project manager Paul Dillon said.

By its nature, the situation is continually evolving.

Abbas said one of his key co-founders was resettled to the United States just a month ago, but remains in touch via email. In July, another student will depart for Australia with her family.

Sony Samandri, a 13year Hazara refugee from Afghanistan, is another who will eventually leave for good.

Her family has just received confirmation of their official refugee status from the UNHCR – the first step towards resettlement.

It’s a milestone for any family in Cisarua, but Samandri doesn’t want to dwell on the prospect of leaving behind her classroom.

“It’s a great opportunity to show myself that I’m talented,” Samandri said, before handing out platters of traditional food to celebrate the occasion.

“I just hope this school will always be here.”

AFP

12 WORLD NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Coping in the jungle As Colombia peace nears, rebels tend to their wounds COLUMBIA

S

ofia writhed from the pain of her first combat wound – a mortar blast in mid-February had pierced the 18-year-old guerrilla with shrapnel.

“We didn’t expect it,” the young woman muttered as she was being treated in a rebel encampment in the Magdalena Medio region of north-western Colombia.

She is among what the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) hope will be the last casualties of its long insurgency against the state.

The FARC has been observing a unilateral truce for the past eight months, and the government has suspended air attacks, while rebel and government negotiators hammer out a peace accord in Havana to end the more than 50-year-old conflict.

But deep in the Colombian jungle, the FARC is still tending to its wounded.

Sofia grimaces as Olga, a 30-year-old rebel nurse, yanks off the bloodstained bandages from her thigh to inspect the wound.

Sofia enlisted in the insurgent ranks at the beginning of the year, and had never

Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia member Sofia is helped by FARC nurse Olga at a camp in the Magdalena Medio region. Photo: Luis Acosta/AFP been in combat when she was felled by the mortar.

She and four fellow guerrillas were wounded but they survived.

At first, they didn’t know exactly what had happened.

The FARC’s top leader, Timoleon Jimenez, told reporters that the army attacked them as they headed to a meeting with a FARC negotiator who was to give them

a brief on the Havana talks.

“The army knew of our presence,” said Sofia.

The Colombian army declined to comment on the incident.

Thousands of combatants on both sides have been wounded or maimed in the conflict which has claimed the lives of some 260,000 people, many of them civilians, since the FARC’s founding in 1964.

The conflict has also involved a second guerrilla group, the National Liberation Army, as well as right-wing paramilitary bands and drug traffickers.

Julian, who has a stitch in his neck, is proud of having convinced Sofia to join the FARC. Now lovers, they both were wounded in the mortar explosion. It was he who lifted her in his arms

after she went down.

“It is very difficult to think you may be the last to die in the war, especially with a peace process underway,” said Julian, who is 23.

Near Sofia’s bed, 18-yearold Michael sits on a pad, all smiles even though a projectile nearly severed three fingers on his left hand in the same attack.

“We are under orders to avoid [contact with the enemy] because the peace process is under way,” he said, looking down at his bandaged hand.

Ending the war has not been easy. With the peace talks more than three years in and there are still differences over disarmament and other issues still unresolved.

Eight years ago, Enrique was not as luck y as his wounded comrades.

He lost his left arm in an air strike, and since then the guerrilla chief, who has spent 16 of his 33 years in the FARC, wears the rebel group’s colours just above his stump.

“We suffered a lot of losses because of the very rawness of the conflict,” he recalled.

Throughout it all, the FARC buried its dead and healed its wounded under extreme conditions, far from

the eyes of its enemies.

Enrique recalled that in the attack in which he lost his arm, three of his comrades were killed.

Today, he carries a holstered pistol and employs a one-hand balancing act to operate his radio telephone.

What will become of the FARC’s maimed fighters once a peace agreement is signed?

“I think that if we’ve been marked by the toughest part of the war, the moment will come when we choose a speciality that will allow us to have a role in the new process,” he said.

But Enrique doesn’t really know what he will do once he surrenders his weapons, and obediently awaits instructions from the rebel commanders negotiating the peace.

Meanwhile, the guerrillas take classes on peace in the same jungle where the FARC has fought for decades but otherwise follow the unchanging routine of camp life.

They get up before dawn and at night they slip through the humid jungle on long marches. They cut firewood, cook rice and pork, and wash as well as they can in streams.

They rarely stay for long in one place.

AFP

Drought kills Paraguay’s thirsty alligators PARAGUAY A DROUGHT IN NORTH Paraguay has driven thousands of thirsty alligators to crowd around lakes and wells, scaring off cattle from the dwindling water sources,

environmentalists and locals say.

Parched leathery corpses of the reptiles lie on the cracked earth near the Pilcomayo River where the borders of Paraguay, Argentina and Bolivia meet.

The Chaco region is suf-

fering its worst drought in 19 years, Public Works Minister Ramon Jimenez Gaona said recently.

Trying to survive, the reptiles are on the move.

“When they find themselves in very dry conditions they tend to walk long dis-

tances in the wood in search of food,” said Aida Luz Aquino, a biologist with the Paraguay branch of the World Wildlife Fund.

The alligators are scaring off local residents and livestock.

“Cattle cannot approach to drink for fear of being attacked by alligators,” said Alcides Gonzalez, a local herdsman.

Dozens of environmentalists have come to the region to try to help. The head of the state environment department Rolando De Barros insisted “there are different parts of the river where there is still a lot of water.”

But Aquino rejected suggestions that the alligators be rounded up and taken away from areas where they pose a threat.

“It is not advisable to move alligators from one place to another,” she said.

“Some of them have already

A dead caiman is seen here in General Diaz, Paraguay.

Photo: Norberto Duarte/AFP gone back into the woods. Others are waiting by the water to save energy and stress. Moving them would stress them more.”

The Pilcomayo’s waters usually diminish at this time of year.

But this time authorities have been accused of failing to dredge sediment from the riverbed which has blocked up its course in places.

President Horacio Cartes

said it was a “critical situation.”

But he accused the media of exaggerating a natural phenomenon “that happens all the time.”

Locals have been drilling new wells and leaving meat on the riverbanks to feed the alligators.

“We prefer to do that than see our animals devoured,” Gonzalez said.

AFP thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

BUSINESS NEWS 13

Property tax stirs Land and Buildings Tax: More up than down, says JLL PROPERTY

More than 100 people involved in community-based tourism are expected to turn out for this year’s event. Photo: PSU

Asean tourism seminar targets communities TOURISM PHUKET COMMUNITY College at the Prince of Songkhla University (PSU), Phuket Campus, will hold its “Seminar on Asean Comunnity-Based Tourism” on July 19-20, with a focus on Thai-Indonesian relations in building grassroots tourism.

More than 100 people, including researchers and school or college directors, are expected to join the seminar, which will be held in English.

Attendance is free, but limited to 100 attendees.

Collaborating in support of the event are Kathu Municipality, the Phuket Tourist Association, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket office, and the Consulate of the Republic of Indonesia, located in Songkhla.

“The aim of the event is to contribute to the promotion of tourism between Thailand and Indonesia in the context

of Asean,” said PSU lecturer Tanawat Wongluksanapan.

Bhuritt Maswongssa, President of the Phuket chapter of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), will present his summary on the state of tourism in Thailand, while Dr Mutmainnah Mustofa of the Universitas Islam Malang (UNISMA) will present his summary on tourism in Indonesia. The seminar will conclude with a group panel discussion led by two representatives from each nation.

Community-based tourism has been identified as a key objective in the government’s Tourism Strategy 2015-2017 and part of the government’s “Social Disparity Reduction” policy, with 145 communities to be targeted for development in tourism products, knowledge and infrastructure.

For more information, call 076-27 6401-4, 086-4767800 or email: pcc@phuket.psu Chanida Summast

The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

T

he Thai Cabinet last month approved the framework of a new land and buildings tax bill.

While it will take some time for property owners to become familiar with the new tax when put into effect, many of them will inevitably feel a shortterm negative impact, warns global property consultancy Jones Lang Lasalle (JLL).

Some owners will be forced to dispose of assets to avoid holding cost, but the new tax policy should promote a more efficient use of land and real estate and thus benefit the country’s property industry in the long run, said JLL Managing Director Suphin Mechuchep.

As the new tax will introduce financial burdens on owners of properties that do not meet the tax exemption criteria, some of these owners will be forced to make better use of their property to avoid a high tax rate and/or get the property to generate income to offset the holding cost.

Others will be pressured to dispose of their property surplus so as to escape from this tax burden.

Kata Rocks operator Infinite Luxury sets bar with new Marketing Director HOSPITALITY L I F E ST Y L E -DE SIG N company Infinite Luxury has appointed Michael Nurbatlian Director of Marketing. Mr Nurbatlian has more than eight years of experience Michael Nurbatlian has been appointed Director of in the luxury hospitality Marketing at Infinite Luxury, which operates Kata Rocks. industry, and brings with him a wealth of marketing his unique career and ex- neering team and building on and e-commerce experience. perience within the travel, new successes as we expand His experience includes luxury and hospitality in- regionally by strengthening working in luxury properties dustries.” the online guest experience such as InterContinental With an MBA in Market- and connecting with new Hotels & Resorts and Phuket ing & Innovation from the clients by further developing designer resort Indigo Pearl. Glion Institute of Higher the Kata Rocks brand and He was most recently at Education in Switzerland, bring the Infinite Luxury Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok Mr Nurbatlian now heads brand to life.” for four years and held the Infinite Luxury’s marketing, Michael will be based at position Director of Digital branding, public relations, Infinite Luxury’s headquarMarketing, responsible for advertising, communications ters in Phuket and will report all brand, marketing and and digital ecosystem. to CEO Richard Pope. digital strategies.

Commenting on his new Kata Rocks launched by Richard Pope, CEO of role, Mr Nurbatlian said: Infinite Luxury in Phuket in Infinite Luxury, said, “We “This is a truly fantastic 2014. The resort and resiare extremely pleased to have opportunity to work with an dence has over 34 pool villas Michael join us, Michael is innovative luxury brand such overlooking Phuket’s west a natural-born entrepreneur as Infinite Luxury. I look coast and the Andaman Sea. who has successfully built forward to joining this pioThe Phuket News @thephuketnews

The Thai Cabinet approved the changes to the Land and Buildings Tax Bill last month.

“Many of these owners are ‘asset-rich and cash-poor’, and may not be able to afford the new land and buildings tax, especially when the assets have high values. Therefore, they may decide to dispose of their real estate assets,” Mrs Suphin explained.

Banks are another group of owners that could face pressure from the new tax policy and thus may have to accelerate the disposal of foreclosed real estate collaterals, she warned.

“Though a low land and buildings tax rate of 0.05% is planned for banks’ nonperforming assets (NPAs) for a period of five years, the amount of tax to levy on foreclosed high-value real estate collaterals could still be significant. Therefore, it is expected that banks will try harder to dispose of these NPAs,” Mrs Suphin said.

“In these circumstances, property owners who are forced by the new tax to sell their property assets will

likely adopt a flexible pricing strategy to accelerate sales, meaning some of them may reduce asking prices.”

However, JLL expects that some well-capitalised owners will be unlikely to lower their price expectation and will continue to absorb the opportunity costs associated with their assets and add the increased costs to the selling price. “This strategy may work when the asset is a sought-after property in a prime location,” Mrs Suphin noted.

For Phuket, much of the same is anticipated, said JLL Director Dexter Norville. “Our view is that the impact on real estate should be similar in all property markets across the country. Having said that, in Phuket there are a lot of foreigners purchasing villas/ condos on a leasehold basis.

“The tax levied to the real landlord or owner of the property will most likely be passed to the lessee of that property. In most cases this would be specified in the

lease agreement… However ultimately the landlord of the property would be responsible for making sure that the payment is made,” he said.

Despite these downsides, the impact should be more positive than negative, Mrs Suphin noted.

Apart from being a source of revenue which can be used to fund services at a local level, the new tax should help encourage a more efficient use of land, particularly when the highest tax rate is applied to vacant land that has been left unused, she explained.

The new tax policy should also reduce speculative property purchasing, she added.

“The tax will increase risk exposure to those who acquire a property asset with the hope to hold it until it becomes more valuable and then resell it for profit. With the new tax, holding a property can be costly, particularly when the property is left unutilised or does not generate any income,” said Mrs Suphin.

14 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Ixina heats up kitchen market

Global expansion sees Phuket home to first Ixina store in Thailand HOME RETAIL The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

I

nter national high-end kitchen specialists Ixina have arrived in Phuket, opening their doors on the bypass road on June 11 with an eye on Phuket’s burgeoning retail kitchen market.

The Ixina Phuket store, located right at the front of the Bypass Biz Town business estate, is the first in the country, and with good reason, said Managing Director David L’Helgoualch.

“Bangkok is a big market, but Phuket has the volume and the clientele we are looking for. We will get settled here first, then we can start looking at opening other branches throughout the country.

“Our biggest market will be retail, and we will be targeting individual home, condo and apartment owners,” he explained.

Ixina worldwide has more than 300 showrooms in more than 30 countries, and is currently in the midst of a huge international expansion. With 40 years’ experience as kitchen specialists, Ixina in 2016 alone is opening 15 branches worldwide in no less than nine countries, including Canada.

“Next year we will open in China and Australia,” Mr L’Helgoualch added.

Highlighting the depth of

The new Ixina store at Bypass Biz Town on the bypass road is the first Ixina in the country. coverage Ixina may gain in Thailand, he noted, “My home country, France, is the same size as Thailand, and there are 90 branches in France alone.”

Asked why the global push this year, Mr L’Helgoualch said, “We provide excellent products and service, the training programmes for our staff are excellent, and the time is right.”

The kitchens range from an easily affordable B60,000 right up to B2 million for ultra-high-end creations. “And because we deal directly with the factory, customers get the best price at the start,” Mr L’Helgouach said.

Opening the door to the Phuket market is the quality of kitchens already provided.

“Many condo owners are not happy with their standard kitchens. The quality is lacking.

They start falling apart after just one year – worse so if the condo has been rented out to a variety of holidaymakers.

Often the quality of materials and workmanship is poor and the wear and tear is too much,” Mr L’Helgoualch said.

“A key difference in the product quality is the production process. It is important to point out that we do not deal in ‘flat pack’. Flat pack means the composite will have holes where the screws go in to assemble the units, and these holes allow the humidity in Phuket to get inside the unit and warp the boards,” he explained.

“This simply does not happen with our units because they do not have these holes.

Our units are heat fused in a factory near Dusseldorf – and tested to ensure they pass European standards – and then shipped as single units. And this is why our guarantee is for five years.”

Large orders from developers are of course accepted, but this market is secondary to the individual owners, he added.

Bringing Euro-quality service to Phuket is the “Personabled” credo upheld by Ixina, which itself is a Belgian-French creation. Staff “advisors” are there to assist clients from the moment they walk through the door until their own person-

alised kitchen is fitted in their home. The four “advisors” on staff are all trained by Inixa, and Thai, English and French is spoken at the store.

“They are all trained to provide a full service. They will talk through the design, style and materials the customer likes – and the budget the customer has set,” Mr L’Helgouach explained.

“And before taking the order, they will personally visit the home to take accurate measurements of the space where the kitchen is to be fitted. Sometimes we get architectural plans, and they might be a little out,” he said.

The service doesn’t end there. “The advisor will also

be on hand to make sure there are no misunderstandings when the kitchen is fitted – and our team who fits the kitchens have been trained by German staff flown out here to train them.

They know how to make all the little adjustments to make sure your kitchen fits perfectly.”

The range of designs, style and finishes for the kitchens is huge. “Customers can mix and match. We have new styles, designs and finishes every year – right now we have 80 different forms, including glass, lacquer and laminate,” said Mr L’Helgouach.

“Also, all our samples are in A4 format, which makes it much easier for a person to decide if it’s what they want, and they choose the style of handle they like too,” he added.

Ixina offers much more than what’s on display at the store. The catalogue is full of high-quality appliances, fixtures and fittings, such as sinks, mixer taps and worktops, to choose from.

“We also offer a price guarantee – we will come up with something to suit each customer’s needs and not go over budget, and right now we are offering special promotions for our grand opening,” Mr L’Helgouach said.

Ixina Phuket, 156/67 Chalerm­ prakiet Rd, T. Rassada, A. Muang 83000 Phuket. Tel: 076530106. Email: Thailande@ ixina.com

Mövenpick Karon wins Award of Excellence HOSPITALITY MÖV E N PICK R ESORT & Spa Karon Beach Phuket ha s beem bestowed t he “Loved by Guests” Award 2016 Award of Excellence

from online portal Hotels.com Guests submitted their post-stay reviews and feedback on the resort’s services and facilities on Hotels.com from July 2015 through June 2016, giving the resort a total review score of 4.3 points out of a

total of five possible points.

“Wonderful hotel, right on the beach and with impeccably maintained grounds” and “The hotel is basically a botanical garden. The outdoor shower on the deck of the villa was a very nice touch. I would rec-

ommend this hotel to anyone, particularly the villas nearer to the beach” are some examples of the positive reviews shared by guests.

“The team at Mövenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket is thrilled that our services and facilities are being recognised by our travel partners and their clients,” said Nick Porter, General Manager.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, an international upscale hotel management company with over 16,000 staff members, is represented in 24 countries with 83 hotels, resorts and Nile cruisers currently in operation.

Around 20 properties are planned or under construction, including those in Chiang Mai, Bali and Marrakech in Morocco.

Focusing on expanding within its core markets of Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia, Mövenpick

Revenue Management Director Gary Reed (right) and Yield Executive Prabhasri Sathorn (left), both at Mövenpick Resort and Spa Karon Beach Phuket, join Jirattikarn Onketphon (centre), Associate Market Manager – Phuket, Hotels.com.

Hotels & Resorts specialises in business and conference hotels, as well as holiday resorts, all reflecting a sense of place and respect for their local communities.

Of Swiss heritage and with headquarters in central Switzerland (Baar), Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is passionate about delivering premium service and culinary enjoyment

– all with a personal touch.

Committed to supporting sustainable environments, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has become the most Green Globe-certified hotel company in the world.

The hotel company is owned by Mövenpick Holding (66.7 per cent) and the Kingdom Group (33.3%).

The Phuket News thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Miss Hooters Phuket goes to Las Vegas!

18

Terrific tapas at the Banyan Tree

SENSORY

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

21

The latest in physical therapy and meditation > Page 17 @thephuketnews

Photo: Float Indigo.

STANDSTILL

16 EDUCATION

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Turning points for Gecko

The founders reflect on their achievements Matt Clemens editor@classactmedia.co.th

A

s they prepare for a new chapter in the history of Gecko school, Celi Harper and Huw Roberts, the school’s founders, reflect on what made their vision of bringing community-based education to Phuket a success.

Gecko is nothing like typical school we’re all used to. If there’s one word to describe it, it’s “open”, but other words such as “welcoming” and “green” spring to mind too.

Located in Thalang, Gecko occupies a two-story villa with a massive garden, giving it an authentic, homely vibe. There are children everywhere – in and outside the building, in the treehouse, playing in the mud kitchen, reading in the outdoor sala.

If there’s one thing that there is more of in Gecko than children, it’s books, books are everywhere. And so is art; all walls are decorated with art made by children over the school’s threeyear run.

“When we moved in here there was nothing in the garden,” states Celi.

“The kids were involved in the process of planning this space, they made it their own and because it’s the children who made it happen, they also care for it more, they have a sense of responsibility.”

This theme of letting the children decide is a recurring one. Celi and Huw believe in building their student’s confidence by allowing them to make their own choices. They set a

goal, guide them but let the kids get there on their own terms. The children sitting on the f loor, or outdoors, aren’t just idling away, they are learning.

“After all not everybody likes to sit at tables, some of us prefer to do our work on the f loor, or on the sofa, we let children decide,” says Huw. The kids seem to love it, but does this approach work? Celi has no doubt. “I took the kids to Japan to monitor the dolphin slaughter and they also delivered presentations at international schools in Osaka. I had teachers approach me to tell me how impressed they were with our children’s confidence. I think it’s because we teach them that they are impor-

tant and they can make a difference, they have this confidence and independence,” she explains.

It’s not just the children who love Gecko, it’s also the parents. Gecko’s doors are always open to parents, they can sit in on classes, watch and join their children as they learn, there are club days when parents come in and teach their skills to the children. All this creates a sense of community that many schools strive for but few manage to achieve.

“Creating community within the school is very important to us. Everyone coming together for events, social functions, fundraisers,” says Celi, and she tears up as she brings up one particular memory.

“One especially memorable experience was a 100-kilometre bike ride we organised. I remember turning around and seeing all our kids, all our parents and even children who couldn’t ride bikes using scooters.

There was this sea of people and that’s when I thought this is what a community is all about.”

The community aspect of Gecko doesn’t just work inwards but radiates outwards. The school teaches the children and their parents how to be a part of the place that they live in and contribute positively.

“It’s about giving back to the people around us, working to help the local community,” explains Huw citing a few examples of Gecko’s activities and achievements: beach cleanups, the funding of a library in Phuket

Town with a local charity, sponsorship of a recycling bin at Nai Yang beach, to name just a few.

Now, three years into the school’s history, and with the concept well established, it’s time for some fresh blood and ideas.

As Huw and Celi set out for a journey through which they intend to take the Gecko style of education beyond the borders of Phuket and Thailand with “Gecko on the Move”, they join forces with a couple of like-minded teachers on the island, to keep Gecko's vision alive. The two new teachers bring more than fresh blood.

Not only do they bring new ideas, but also vast experience in early-years education, shifting the focus to younger age groups.

“We’ve sold half of the shares to two teachers who share our values and passion and will guarantee that Gecko stays on its course,” says Huw. “This was very important to us, I think we’d feel very uncomfortable to sell the school to just anyone. We wouldn’t like to see it turn into yet another rigid, traditional educational facility or worse, a cash cow for some investor. Luckily that didn’t happen and with the new passionate owners and us staying on as partners, we are confident that Gecko will remain what it is and is meant to be – a school that children and parents love.”

For more information visit the school website: geckoschool.org thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Floating in saltwater

HEALTH 17

The latest craze in relaxation requires minimal effort, and water JP Mestanza tv@classactmedia.co.th

I

t goes by many names, but float tank therapy is sweeping the world with its suspended-in-space feeling that has countless benefits for the mind.

Owner Joe Iozzi and his partner had been planning to start a float tank therapy business for quite some time. It all goes back to the Joe Rogan Podcast, a popular online programme that frequently espouses the benefits of using a sensory deprivation tank.

Float tank therapy consists of a large sensory deprivation tank that seals off sound and sight, with more than enough space for one person. The tank is filled with 10 inches of water and over 450 kilogrammes of magnesium sulphate, which makes the water incredibly buoyant. With the absence of any light and sound, the person feels as though floating in a zero gravity environment, helping relieve stress on the mind, soreness in muscles and allowing joints to recover quicker.

“We thought it would be ideal to have it on Soi Ta-ied, which is home to professional fighters from across the world,

@thephuketnews

and all of the people training here could use it for its benefits to their athletic advantage,” Iozzi says.

The hour-long sessions are akin to forced meditation, where participants are completely surrounded by silence and darkness in the name of increasing calmness, achieving psychological balance and blocking out sensory overload in their everyday lives.

“The mental aspect of it is a little more tricky and has massive gains once achieved. It gives you strong clarity and goal-orientated focus for sportsmen, problem solving, visualisation or just helping you explore your own consciousness to wonderful extremes.”

Though fighters on Phuket’s famed “Muay Thai street” are taking advantage of the mental, goal-oriented benefits – visualising their fights and winning ways – others are using float tank therapy to help overcome injuries.

A perfect example is Johnnie, who got hurt while conducting private military security operations. Coupled with a motorbike accident in Phuket, Johnnie was suffering with two broken ribs, a bad back, and a previous facial injury.

After putting Vaseline to cover his cuts, Johnnie floated in the tank to wondrous benefits.

High concentrations of magnesium sulphate are used for sensory deprivation.

“I could feel the pain radiating and emitting through my back, similar to the feeling you get from standing in the same position too long and your feet radiate pain and start to throb when you eventually take the weight off. I could feel the pain and tension leaving my body whilst in the tank,” he says.

“The pain in my lower back has completely gone, my ribs still took a lot of healing, but I think the float experience took away the muscle spasms and tension from around my ribs from the bike accident,” he adds.

While many find it easy to meditate during a session because of the sensory deprivation, Iozzi has had clients who talk of hallucinations while inside the tank.

“Someone just recently thought he passed over to another dimension and back. Even we get taken back as to how far some people’s minds can expand inside the tank,” he says.

Thailand has an abundance of silent retreats around the Kingdom, where participants eat one meal a day and

make meditation an all-day endeavor with retreats lasting as long as 30 days.

Float tank therapy provides a safe space for participants to essentially do the same thing for one hour at a time, forcing the mind to be introspective while floating in space.

“We would recommend that you go inside the tank for your first float without any expectations except to relax, and if you have a goal in mind to focus on that. If your mind takes you in other directions then just go with it and you might be surprised where you end up,” Iozzi says.

“Floating is much like meditation, for some people it can take a few tries at it to achieve more and more. Mainly just enjoy it!” he adds.

Float Indigo

Moo 1, Soi Ta-ied, Chalong, Phuket 098 712 1421, 092 757 8937 Floatindigotherapy@gmail.com Facebook.com/FloatIndigo Packages start at B1,200 for 45 minutes.

18 PEOPLE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Representing Phuket

Meena Kit-Hen ready to take on the Miss Hooters International Pageant Matt Pond editor@classactmedia.co.th

I am so proud to be representing Thailand and showing the rest of the world what Thailand has to offer

A

t 30 years of age, Meena Kit-Hen is lucky in that, unlike a number of other Thai nationals, she has already been able to set foot outside of her home country. Yesterday (July 7), when she boarded a flight from Bangkok, she began what can only be described as a once-in a-lifetime journey when she headed towards Las Vegas, in America, where she will represent Hooters Phuket in the annual Miss Hooters International 2016 beauty pageant.

Meena was crowned Miss Hooters Phuket at the Miss Hooters Phuket Swimsuit Pageant held at the iconic American bar and restaurant in Patong on April 3, and not only did she take the title and the trip to Las Vegas, she also took home some B20,000 cash in prize money.

She is a native of the northeastern province of Chaiyaphum and has been working at Hooters Phuket since its opening in 2014. However, previously, as a way of financing her education she took up various positions within the hotel and service industry, including a stint on an around-the-world Disney cruise.

The Phuket News was recently lucky to have an opportunity to catch up with Meena before she took off on her epic journey to the fantastic Viva Las Vegas to find out more about her job at Hooters and what she hopes to achieve in Miss Hooters International Pageant 2016.

Meena started by explaining that the general perception about Hooters girls is that it’s all about being sexy. She does agree that being sexy is a small part of being able to fit into the role, mainly due to the outlet’s uniforms, but the most important thing

is to be able to be friendly.

“We are like friends to our customers,” she said, “and we have to make them happy. But don’t forget, our customers are not only single men, we also entertain a lot of couples, families and groups of friends.”

When asked about life working for Hooters, Meena said, “It’s an amazing opportunity, all the girls enjoy working here, we are friends, we are one big family.

“It’s a very good job for me because I like to meet new people and I like to entertain,” she said. “But what I like most about my job is that it is so much fun.

I have worked on a world cruise before, but this is far more fun,” she added.

Since being selected to represent Hooters Phuket in the annual beauty pageant, Meena said that her confidence has grown immensely, but more importantly it has made her take more care of her body and her looks.

“Now I go to the gym more often and I eat a lot more healthily than I did before,” she said.

Despite her job being located in Phuket, it doesn’t necessarily mean that she’s there 100 per cent of the time, and with more branches set to open in more countries across Asia, Meena knows that she will soon be stepping away from the island to greet and introduce more girls to the Hooters world.

“We are soon to open new branches of Hooters in Hong Hong, Phnom Penh, Bali, Manila, Malaysia, Singapore and more locally Koh Samui, and that will mean I will be able to travel to those countries and teach the girls there all about being a Hooters girl,” she said.

Turning the subject to the big competition, which this year will be the 20th edition and will see nearly 300 Hooters girls show off their assets in three main categories: bikini, cocktail dress and Hooters uniform. Each are vying for the chance to win a grand prize of US$30,000 (about B1.05 million) cash as well as a lucrative contract to become the international brand ambassador for Hooters restaurants. Meena says that she has been doing a lot of preparation for the big event.

“I’ve been doing so much leading up

Meena is working hard to prepare for Vegas. to this competition. I’ve been improving my runway walk and working out a lot more than usual,” she said, “and of course I’ve been praying to Buddha,” she said with a laugh.

When asked what she is most looking forward to about the competition, Meena explained that for her, personally, it is not just about gaining more confidence, experience and meeting new friends. She will also be able to present Thai culture to the judges and to the other contestants.

“I am so proud to be representing Thailand and showing the rest of the world what Thailand has to offer when it comes to national costume and customs. But most importantly, I will be showing everybody how beautiful and intelligent us girls from Thailand really are,” she said.

It is not only Meena who will be representing Thailand, she will be joined by the winners of the Miss Hooters Bangkok and Miss Hooters Pattaya 2016 pageants – Neera Wongai and Jessica Arra, respectively, both of whom Meena already knows, especially Jessica who initially worked alongside Meena in Phuket but recently decided to join the team in Pattaya.

The Phuket News wishes all three girls the best of luck and hope that the judges will agree with so many men from around the globe that Thai ladies are certainly some of the most beautiful and intelligent you can find. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

TECH 19

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Creativity for content marketing Artistic ingenuity and personal touches will draw in targeted sales LET’S GET SOCIAL Daniel Villota editor1@classactmedia.co.th

In this column we will work towards connecting hospitality businesses with the right customers through social media channels.

It’s a brave new world for business and we will do our best to equip you for it!

@thephuketnews

I

f you are a business owner, hotel manager or work in sales and marketing, you may have heard of content marketing and how powerful it can be in driving sales to your business.

In the past few years, customers have become savvier with how they are influenced by marketing. Different from traditional marketing in print or television, potential customers are now interrupted while they have their attention on something that is of interest. An example of this would be pop-up ads, which divert someone’s attention in order to try and persuade them to buy something. Studies have shown how ineffective standard advertising is, with customers now automatically tuning out advertisements.

However, content marketing is the art of developing stories that belong uniquely to your business – the “behind the scenes” of why, what, who and how you do things in your company.

The reason I call this an art is because people now consume news and information on their own time and don’t like to be interrupted. In fact, I’m sure it has happened to you – you are watching TV and an advert interrupts you, so you switch your attention to your phone or you get up to do something entirely different instead.

In order to create a story that can capture the attention of people, a photo, write up or video needs to have a compelling story behind it to generate interest.

Personal stories, achievements of teamwork or even anecdotes of enjoyment go a long way in drawing people in with intimacy.

People won’t mind being interrupted if the content that is placed in front of them is creative, adds value and has a message, as opposed to just trying to sell them something every single time. If your content is good, the customers will follow.

20 PETS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Dog and baby, in harmony You’re having a baby! - Part 2

UNLEASHED Russell Distance Russell russelldrussell@gmail.com

I

n our previous article we looked at some of the things we need to consider before the newborn arrives. When baby finally arrives home our primary instinct is to forget everything else and focus on them. It is really important not to forget about your dog, or to act differently with them. Maintain your status quo, continue with your normal feeding and walking routines and incorporate them into your new ones.

By being involved with you and the newbie you’re preventing a build up of any frustration or anxiety in your dog.

Your dog will no doubt be curious of the new sounds and smells associated with your baby, but will not understand how delicate he or she is.

Obviously, you will want to supervise all interactions between baby and dog.

Your dog might be awesome with them, but that doesn’t mean he won’t snap if awoken suddenly by a baby yanking on his whiskers.

Having your dog under some level of obedience control will clearly help, but you can also look to other management techniques such as baby gates or using a crate (for your dog, or the baby!).

The humane treatment of all animals is an important lesson for children of any age, as is the awareness and respect of a healthy set of canine teeth.

Having a pet in the house is by far the best way for your child to learn about how to properly handle a dog, or other animal. Having them involved in walking, bathing, feeding or even training your dog will have immense benefits to them personally, as well as the added benefits to your dog.

QUICK TIPS!

1. Make sure your dog has a basic

understanding of good behaviour. Brush up on his training so that he will lie quietly for short periods, won’t jump up, can walk on the lead without pulling and will come when called. This will make both your lives much easier.

2. If your dog is an “only” pet, it is quite likely he is used to being the “baby” in your family. Help him get used to being less important, by ignoring him and leaving him alone for short periods of time every day with a tasty long-lasting chew.

3. If you are planning to keep your dog out of certain rooms or areas of the house once the baby arrives, then start doing this as soon as possible.

4. Bring new items of furniture such as playpens, carry cots and highchairs into the house, so that your dog can get used to them. Take the push chair with you on walks, so your dog gets used to it.

5. Try to teach your dog the difference between his toys and those that will belong to the baby.

6. Develop a routine that you intend to follow when the new baby arrives and stick to it, to help your dog cope with the changes in the home.

If you’d like some more advice on how to best prepare your dog for an imminent arrival, then please feel free to get in touch. We’d be more than happy to answer your questions and give you some pointers. Drop us an email to info@ k9pointacademy.com, call 091 654 1960 or go online to k9pointacademy.com

Pupils learn about animal welfare SOI DOG STORIES Mike Pullen editor1@classactmedia.co.th

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wo Thai schools reached out to Soi Dog Foundation during this past week to teach their pupils about how to become more responsible citizens by getting involved with animal welfare projects. Soi Dog visited Kajonkietsuksa School in Kathu,

whilst 33 children and their teachers from Cha-uat Wittayakarn School in Nakhon Sri Thammarat visited the Soi Dog shelter in Mai Khao.

As part of their project to teach their pupils about community role models, good citizenry and becoming involved in community welfare, Kajonkietsuksa School arranged for Soi Dog to do a presentation about the organisation’s activities, and how the children could help the street dogs and cats in Thailand.

The highly interactive event was thoroughly enjoyed by 110 grade P3 children who learned more about responsible ownership and care for their pets, as well as helping to care for street dogs and cats.

Janine Cameron, from Kajonkietsuksa School stated, “The children enjoyed interacting with the Soi Dog representatives in English and learning about what Soi Dog does, and came away with great life lessons about what they each can do to help helpless animals, and thereby become role models of responsible citizenship within their own communities. Further, the children also had great fun in their community raising funds and donations of food, blankets and toys which were accepted with thanks by Soi Dog for use at their shelter in Mai Khao.”

It is obvious that the youth of Thailand are dedicated to becoming good citizens and productive members of society. By introducing the children to the various charities and humane societies, and the work that they do within their communities, the youth are taught that they can become everyday heroes by becoming involved and helping those that cannot help themselves. Soi Dog salutes the youth of Thailand in striving to reach this noble goal and will assist where possible to share their knowledge about animal welfare and the benefits of harmonious relationships between the people and animals within their own communities. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

DINING 21

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Banquet of flavours

Tapas brunch exceeds expectations at Banyan Tree Anton Markhov news@novostiphuketa.com

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ocated at the renowned western coast of Phuket, Banyan Tree Resort is generally recognised as a must-visit for the most sumptuous seafood brunch with oysters and lobsters aplenty. Thus many islanders raised a sigh of slight disappointment when the new Sunday Tapas was announced to replace their end-of-week treat.

Don’t let the name mislead you.

Though the format has changed, in every other aspect the Watercourt restaurant is staying true to itself.

Every Sunday Maltese sous-chef Kreaton Cutajar serves what could be called an “East meats West” parade of over 24 dishes, divided into seven separate sets, which can be served in any order. When you are ready for a new one, just put a small flag on your table and a fresh course will arrive. Any set can be re-ordered any number of times, so enjoy your three hours of brunch to the utmost.

Being more on the traditional side, we opened our meal by putting a blue flag on the table for cold starters. In bare seconds there arrived a tree-like rack with hummus, marinated olives and capsicum, olive oil and vinegar, plus some crispy bread.

Mediterranean flavours whetted our appetites just in time for the two other cold tapas sets: a Japanese one (sushi, maki and sashimi) and another expanding the Mediterranean theme (strawberry gazpacho, frittata and finely sliced ham with cantaloupe).

Banyan Tree hosts one of the topranking Japanese restaurants on the island, picking only the best imported fish for the hotel, so sushi and sashimi were absolutely fresh and of mindblowing quality. On the other hand, the delicate, fluffy frittata demonstrated that even the simplest ingredients, eggs, can result in a delicious masterpiece.

Having finished cold tapas we moved to hot ones, presented in two sets. The European treat came first and we enjoyed some squid with garlic and olive oil, followed by glazed and seared foie gras and renowned oysters Rockefeller. The foie gras was unbelievably tender with a sweet hint added by the glaze, while the Rockefellers delighted our taste buds with rich @thephuketnews

Oysters Rockefeller butter sauce and nice crunch on top.

As for my personal favourite, these were stuffed zucchinis with ricotta and Parmesan cheeses. Simple yet delicious dish from Kreaton’s home island.

The Asian set this time included tempura, falafel with yogurt dip and Thai deep-fried fish cakes called tod man pla. The latter deserves it’s very own mention. Slightly chewy and infused with the fragrance of Thai herbs, they were one of the best iterations of the snack we have tried.

Having made it halfway though the brunch, we called a brief time-out and then moved forward to the main tapas, which were what are traditionally full-fledged main courses, but served tapas-style. The chicken sous-vide arrived first with grilled, glazed veggies on the side. The meat was tender, full of juice and infused with rosemary and other herbs, while vegetables added some sweet and sour notes to every bite. Second came Black Angus rib-eye steak with chimichurri sauce. Cooked to medium/medium-rare, the steak was finely grilled on the outside and full of juices inside, while chimichurri sauce added nice spiciness. Frankly, I love chimichurri with quite a generous load of chopped chilies, and this one was 100 per cent to my liking.

The Thai set was also impressive with Phuket’s signature crab carry being the centre of it. Served alongside nest-liked bundles of khanom jeen noodle, the curry was mildly hot but still

Glazed foie gras

Sous-chef Kreaton

Stuffed zucchinis fully flavoured, which you don’t come across too often. Together with the curry also served were some hor mok, a curried fish souffle wrapped in leaves.

Some fried snowfish was there for those who fail to imagine their meals complete without fish.

Banyan Tree will be serving Sunday Tapas throughout the green season, developing and modifying the menu. Chef Kreaton promises that most popular dishes, including rib-eye, foie gras and oysters will be always present.

The brunch is served every Sunday from noon till 3pm. After the meal feel free to help yourself to the fruits and desserts buffet and enjoy a complimentary massage (you can hardly find this option anywhere else). Four price

Rib-eye steak packages are available: B2,000 for food only; B2,500 for food and unlimited soft drinks, brews and selected cocktails; B3000 for unlimited white sangria; B3,500 for food with a bottle per couple from Banyan Tree’s cellars. Advance booking is recommended, please call 076 372 400.

22 ISLAND SCENE

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FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Jason from Hooters took the pie-eating crown.

Andy getting his money’s worth.

FAMILY FUN DAY AT XANA An early Fourth of July celebration was held at Xana Beach Club on July 2, with over 100 kids and parents enjoying burgers, hot dogs, a selection of Thai dishes and face painting till long after the sun went down. And let's not forget the pie-eating contest.

Chloe took the kids’ pie-eating crown.

Pranai, Cake, Roj

Mr. Carl Langenskiöld and family.

The boys rocking the blue shirts.

Miguel Kirjon, Olivier Gibaud and Martin Palleros.

HQ BEACH LOUNGE OPENING PARTY Hundreds turned out on Friday, July 1 for the latest Twin Palms beach lounge, this time at the north end of Kamala Beach. A great night was had by all in attendance.

Mr. Chanadit Tantiphanwadee and friend.

thephuketnews

Nap Patong along with Kajonkiet International School, Tiger Muay Thai and Nai Yang Beach Resort held a sea turtle release event at Nai Yang Beach on June 25.

24 EVENTS

FRI

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM of either roast beef, chicken, loin of pork or leg of lamb served with roast and boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy.

Only B350 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See otools-phuket.com.

8 JUL

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

twelve. Children under the age of six dine with our compliments. RSVP, HYATT REGENCY PHUKET RESORT, fnb.phuhr@hyatt.com, 076 231 234.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY CAMP AT THANYAPURA

WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY Come join us for our WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong from 12pm-Late! Indulge in All You Can Eat BBQ Pork Ribs, Chicken and Sides for ONLY 395 BAHT! Our BBQ is famous at Two Chefs! Come try us out and enjoy our mouthwatering pork ribs, flavor-bursting chicken and more! Join us for Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band!

Come for the FOOD - Stay for the FUN at Two Chefs!!! RESERVE Your Table Now Online at bit.ly/TwoChefsReservations Check out more details on our website at bit.ly/TwoChefsEvents.

Get active and learn multi-sports skills! Camps are designed to be fun for kids of all ages from 3 and up at Thanyapura. A variety of sports is provided, including Learning to Swim, Competitive Swimming and Tennis. Starting prices from THB 700 per day with different timetables for each sport. For more information and reservations, please call +66 (0) 76 336 000 Email: reservations@thanyapura.com.

SAT

9 JUL

Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY Come enjoy a Traditional Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Indulge in our Traditional Sunday Roast ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT for ONLY 395 Baht! Enjoy a Large ALL YOU CAN EAT selection of your favorites! Featuring: Roast Aussie Beef, Pork Loin and Chicken. Roasted or Mashed Potatoes. Roasted Mixed Vegetables Flavored with Thyme and Garlic. Yorkshire Pudding and Red Wine Gravy. Enjoy Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band! Come for the FOOD - Stay for the FUN! RESERVE Your Table Now Online at bit. ly/TwoChefsReservations Check out more details on our website at bit.ly/TwoChefsEvents.

Sunday Gourmet Brunch At Bodega and Grill Relax with your family and friends while enjoying a lavish Sunday Brunch featuring a delectable international seafood buffet complemented by a 12 course degustation menu featuring finest selection of gourmet plates. Bodega Sunday Brunch from 12pm till 3pm price start from 1950++. Reservations recommend call our F& B Reservation team on 076 324 101 ext 8938.

Sip ‘n Slide Sundays @ Splash Jungle Waterpark Bollywood Phuket’s Weekend Special Indian Lunch Set Friday BBQ Buffet at SKYE Beach Club Price at 399++ A new menu from July 1st onwards. RSVP, SKYE Beach Club at Naiyang Beach, 093 582 7700.

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

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

Sunday Tapas

BBQ at Expat Hotel

This is what Sunday lunches are meant to be - fabulous, fresh unlimited and Western and Asian tapas with friends and family crafted by the talented team of chefs at Banyan Tree Phuket. Starting at THB 2,000 net per person.Reservations, Banyan Tree Phuket, 076 372 400 # 5463.

NRL, AFL, Soccer, Rugby Union. Any live sport, we will show it. Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www.expatsportsbar.com.

SUN

10 JUL

Mussels night @ Shakers 1.2kg mussels served with french fries, your choice, your style: nature, marnière, provençale, garlic & cream or Thai style. Reservations recommended B295 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet Beef, Pork & Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, fried mushrooms, grilled tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding – roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes – gravy, mushroom sauce, mint sauce. Reservation recommended 350 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice

Visit Splash Jungle Water Park after 2pm, Sundays, and mention “Sip ‘n Slide Sundays“ to receive: FREE ENTRY for 1 Child (under 12) with each paying adult (Residence Rates apply), the first selected beverage is FREE, a FREE bag of popcorn for kids, Special discounts till 5:30pm on all F&B. Splash Jungle is part of Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas Phuket and is just 13km north of the airport. www.splashjunglewaterpark.com.

A CASUAL SUNDAY BRUNCH BY THE POOLSIDE Relaxing afternoon by the poolside featuring a lavish spread of international delicacies and fresh seafood from the Ocean. Special Promotions: (1) A group of over 10 people receive 20% discount. (2) Birthday celebrations – birthday person receives a complimentary Brunch. The rest of the party, if over 10 people receive 20% discount. All prices are subject to a 7% government tax and a 10% service charge. Children’s prices are applicable to those aged from six to

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EVENTS 25

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

SUN

10 JUL

and leadership skills? Ignite your career?

Join Toastmasters Phuket and start making yourself a leader today! Invitation only.

Contact Jason on 086 479 7471 for more info.

WED

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

13 JUL

All you can eat BBQ Ribs night 6PM – 11PM: All you can eat BBQ Ribs served with salad buffet, potato Salad & Choice of Sauces Reservation recommended 350 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

MON

11 JUL

Phuket Hospitality Challenge The very first Laguna Phuket Hospitality Challenge – A Charity Golf Tournament will take place in Phuket on 15th July 2016 at the Laguna Championship Golf Course. Our aim to have a competitive feel to the event as Hospitality professionals from Phuket and Krabi come together to fight it out in teams, to see who is the best in the region. If you want to participate in this year’s event, please visit the websites at www. asiangolfevents.com or www.asean-events. com and contact Mark or Ti Cameron. Proudly supported by Live 89.5 radio.

Phuket FC VS Satun United

Sunday July 10, Phuket FC VS Satun United at Surakul Stadium. Kick-off 7pm. Admission B50 adults, Free for children with school ID Card. Proudly supported by The Phuket News.

Resort & Spa for an authentic Indian Feast first and third Friday of the month, in Karon Beach. Try out our delicious Aloo Tikki, Samosas, Chicken Tandoori, Aloo Gobi, Navrang Korma, Butter Chicken, Lamb Vindaloo, Naan, Rice, Salads, Chutneys/Achars, Pistachio Ice Cream, Gulab Jamun, Fruits. Extra dishes on the menu: ONION BHAJI, BOMBAY ALOO, DAL MAKHINI, VANILLA ICE-CREAM. For only 499/- nett and special reduced prices on drinks.

Dinner with Mr.Bean Thailand Thai Seafood & Meat BBQ at THB 999++ Thailand’s famous “Mr.Bean” will be visiting as well. may@mai-bs.com 076 688 888.

SAT

16 JUL

ternational Women’s Club Monthly lunch at Divine Restaurant in Thanyapura, Thalang.Registration starts at 11.30 am. Members 600 baht, non-members 750 baht. Reservation essential: please contact Maggy Wigman at info@piwcphuket.com

THU

28 JUL

16th Architect & Engineering Exhibitions 2016

Every Wednesday!

All-you-can-eat Pasta and Pizza All you can eat BBQ night 6PM – 11PM: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns & Squids, salad buffet, Choice of potatoes & Sauces, Bread, Buns & garlic bread Reservation recommended 395 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

TUE

12 JUL

Toastmasters Phuket Looking to develop your public speaking

@thephuketnews

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

FRI

15 JUL

Indian Curry Night on Fridays Come to Navrang Mahal in Karon Sea Sands

Mystic Siam @COAST Reservations, cpbr@chr.co.th, 076 201 234.

WED

Welcome to the best exhibition in Phuket and Andaman coastline for construction tools and materials and architectural design & décor items comprising a wide range of products and technology. This is a great opporturnity to introduce construction materials and decorative items to the Phuket and Andaman area. Venue: Second floor, Royal Phuket City Hotel. More information please visit www.pic-phuket.com or info@pic-phuket.com, proudly supported by The Phuket News.

21 JUL

PIWC July luncheon Not to be missed. July 21, 2016 – Phuket In-

DAILY EVENT UPDATES ON

26 TIME OUT

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FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York Across 1. In horse racing, the distance ‘a horse length’ equals roughly how many feet?

2. At what time should clocks be put forward or back for daylight saving in the UK? 3. Complete the 1997 television series title: ‘Full Circle with…’?

4. Which country’s first ever home football international was played at the Racecourse Ground in 1877?

5. What is the main ingredient in Andouillette de Troyes?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

57. Meritorious foreigner may be proclaimed this 63. Brought out 64. Seesawed 65. Payback 66. Losers

22. Parsley or sage 23. Mix together 1. Pushed out 24. Look up to 9. Pile of loose 25. Some trick-orstones treaters 15. Mooch 26. Most of Libya 16. Attire 27. Declared 17. U.S. military 28. Single-celled decoration organisms Down 19. Method 29. “This means 20. In alignment ___!”

1. Goes (for) 21. Beetle type 31. Method 23. Ryan of “When 2. Thai currency 33. “Naked Maja” Harry Met Sally” 3. Arborist’s painter concern 26. “Gunsmoke” 34. Getting on 4. Turnpike turnoff 37. “___ bartender 5. Applies 29. Distress Brockovich” 30. Ethnic group in 6. Impersonated 38. TV judge of note 7. Touch down time 39. Raises Belgium perhaps 32. Italian savant 43. Bordeaux 8. Mississippi ___ 35. Cognizant of product 9. Gas up 36. Titled ones 44. Harangue 10. Belong 40. “Shoo!”

45. Blend 11. Experienced 41. Fruit part 50. Inner shrine 12. Stand-up 42. Edits 52. Sgt. Snorkel’s comic, White 46. Tags dog 13. Blood letters 47. Fat letters 53. Frame used for 14. The “p” of 48. Magazine burials m.p.h. revenue source 54. “The Snowy 18. “Carmina 49. Mass Day” author ___ Burana” communication?

Jack Keats composer 51. Dry 55. Caught sight of 21. Musical finale 56. Expires 52. Corpulent plus

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) Eight feet; 2) 2am; 3) Michael Palin; 4) Wales; 5) Pork (it’s a type of pork sausage)

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

This week in history ■■ July 8, 1962

3

Prime Minister of Burma General Ne Win besieges and dynamites the Rangoon University Student Union building to crush the Student Movement.

people photographed together is considered bad luck in Cambodia, with the person in the middle believed to later die an early death.

■■ July 9, 1981

Nintendo video game Donkey Kong is released, marking the debut of Nintendo’s future mascot, Mario.

12

is how many eyes a scorpion may eventually grow.

72

■■ July 10, 988

The Norse King Glúniairn recognises Máel Sechnaill mac Domnaill, High King of Ireland, and agrees to pay taxes and accept Brehon Law; the event is considered to be the founding of the city of Dublin.

per cent of shopping trolleys have faeces on their handles, according to one study.

182

■■ July 11, 1995

Ming admiral Zheng He sets sail to explore the world for the first time.

hours per year is how much the average American college student had to work to pay for tuition. In 2013, it was 991 hours.

■■ July 12, 1561

4 billion

The Hollywood sign is officially dedicated in the hills above Hollywood, Los Angeles, California. It originally reads “Hollywoodland” but the four last letters are dropped after renovation in 1949.

A permanent fixture at Baan Ko En in Thalang. Photo by Bob Mott

Source: Uberfacts

Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket?

Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

meteoroids fall to Earth each and every day.

Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow is consecrated.

■■ July 13, 1923

■■ July 14, 1881

Billy the Kid is shot and killed by Pat Garrett outside Fort Sumner, New Mexico.

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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Buy&Sell BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE Dual banana boat for sale

Dual banana boat for water activities. 4.2 m long, 1.6 m wide. Up to 14 riders. This banana boat is brand new, packaging still intact. Stored in a warehouse in Chalong. 40,000, Vladimir, sales@joydive.asia, 084 182 8685.

Dive boat for sale

Dive boat Asian Adventure, length–18m, width– 4.6m, depth–1.7m, 1 Eng–315 H.P, capacity 40 passengers +3 crew. Located in Chalong, sales@ joydive.asia, 084 182 8685.

1 engine speedboat for sale

Honda 250 H.P. 15 passengers+3 crew, length–8.10m, width–2.40, depth-1.6.

Excellent condition, sound system. Located in Chalong. Vladimir, sales@ joydive.asia, 0841828685.

Boston Whaler Conquest 255

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

Yacht Chartering and Resort

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

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

ACTIVITIES, GROUPS Free Tiya’s Hammocks campaign

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

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Restaurant for sale in Rawai

All new equipment, air conditioned, private terrace, unlimited parking. All offers considered. optispa@gmail.com, 088 386 9132, 063 067 4498.

Restaurant set up for sale

A fully equipped restaurant in the highly sought after Boat Avenue mall in Laguna.

Stainless steel kitchen, Wi-Fi, bar counter, service area. Ready to go in days. Email: jukeboxphuket@gmail.com, 081 090 1608.

Restaurant for take over

Fully equipped restaurant in Rawai for take over in a popular tourist spot. High density crowd. 10,000FT and air condition. June, Rawai, senajune@gmail.com, 081 978 5989.

Looking for a Partner Investor

I am looking for a Partner/Investor to expand my Dive business. Anyone interested please email me to discuss the proposal. rwhi690169@bigpond.com

Bangla agogo club for sale

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

Business for Sale

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

Newly renovated hotel for rent

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

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 4mn. hansibakery@gmail.com, Price: 3.5 million, Contact Mr. Stark.

CAR FOR SALE Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8G VVTI

2013 - 35,000km - Automatic White - CD Radio, Air-con, Alloys Excellent Condition, Only used for school runs. 525,000, Duang, Royal Phuket Marina, gavinmullins@ hotmail.com, 083 093 9724.

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PETS

Horse and Dog Vet Hospital

Open from 10am. – 8pm. *Service all types of animals. * Experienced professionals. Contact: 076 620 136 / 084 210 6868 and contact@horsedogvet.com www.horsedogvet.com

Pets Magic Planet

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

CAR FOR SALE 2012 FORD RANGER

Ford Ranger 2.2 Diesel Hi Rider 22 Inch wheels, tonne cover, sheep skin seat, cover, showroom condition, 24,000 kms, by careful expat driver. 660,000, dougwatson@hotmail.com.au, 097 045 2788.

TOYOTA ALTIS 1.6G AT

2008. 62K kms. White. Usual G refinements.

Insurance, FSH, Lady driver 395K baht ono 395K, Clive Roberts, crob58@gmail.com, 081 087 9237 or 086 270 8727.

Chevy Captiva LT 2008

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

TOYOTA Fortuner 2009

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

Nissan Teana 2.5Lt

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

n r ge

t sa

le

Honda Jazz 2009 1500cc Auto

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

CARS WANTED Urgent need Toyota hilux vigo

Want to sell your Toyota hilux vigo Champ ? vigo4u is the best palace to sell your Toyota.

Vigo4u now in Phuket, Pataya and Bangkok also. 084 344 3444, 02 810 8117.

CAR WASH DELIVERY Tired Of Waiting?

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

MOTORBIKES FOR SALE MAX SYM 400I

Big comfortable 2012 scooter one expat owner. Only 2,600 kms., has had 1st service a great bike, reason to sale leaving Thailand. 150,000, Doug Watson, Phuket, dougwatson@hotmail.com.au, 097 045 2788.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE New loft trailer

Fully welded steel construction. Proper fenders springs, hitch, lights, toungue jack, alu deck. Fits M/C, ATY, const, landscape. 1700 lb. cap. 65,000 THB, 081 693 8214.

MEMBERSHIPS Blue Canyon Membership

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

FURNITURE FOR SALE Swinging Sun Loungers For Sale

Swinging, sun loungers, brand new, excellent quality- 6,000 baht only, Contact: Eddy, eddyelan@yahoo. com, 0899710278.

MOVING SERVICES Looking for Moving Company?

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

PERSONAL SERVICES De Laguna By Dr.JaQ

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

REAL ESTATE SERVICES Phuket real estate tour

Real estate investment tours are specially designed to help you to achieve your investment goals with the right property in the right location. You will get advice on the multitude of lucrative investment opportunities in Phuket. 1990, md@tourasian.com, 080 826 4665.

OTHER For Sale

Industrial over locker. Whitehouse Brand. 3 Thread. Brand new never used.

Full tool kit. Bargain at 12,000 Baht. Call Sandi 087 264 0778.

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.

COMMUNITY

PUBLIC NOTICES Notice

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

PROPERTY FOR SALE LAND NEAR WATERFALL FOR SALE

Beautiful, gently sloping land for sale near Bang Pae waterfall. Good road, 3-phase power. NS3 paper (upgrade applied for). 7 rai, B4m/rai. 087 884 9964 (En) or 087 272 5594 (Th). alasdair.phuket@gmail.com

Kay McDonnell

I have a number of FIRE SALE PROPERTIES from 1.5 MTB to 47MTB. Condos/Houses/Villas Please contact me if you are looking for bargains in the south of the island. 080 124 1245, kay@pare.com

Nai Harn Pool Villa

Brand New 3 bedrooms near the beach, activities and restaurants 8.5 mlb only. Call 095 036 5536 for viewing or more info, contact Jonathan.

Nai Harn Pool Villa For Sale

Near the beach, activities and restaurants Brand New 611 Sqm. 16.75 mlb Call 095 036 5536 for viewing or more info, Contact Jonathan.

House for Sale

House at Land and House for sale. 2-storey with 3 bedrooms, living room, kitchen, balcony, jacuzzi, library, laundry. Near to kid playground, two swimming pools, sauna, gym. Enough land to build a second house on the same plot. Ekaterina Oseledets, 095 861 7571.

D Condo Creek, fully furnished

Studio 5th floor, mountains view. Cool & quiet.

24 hrs security, 3 swimming pools, gym. Shops & restaurants around. Rent out good return.

1.85 MB., Tiya, Kathu Phuket, lodchong77th@ yahoo.com, EN & TH 089 600 0041.

Modern home office for sale

Modern home office for sale located 400 m fr Central Intersection. 1 Unit has 1 commercial, 1 living space, 4 bedrooms & built-in bathrooms.

Owner, thip_ june19@yahoo.com, 087 543 4716.

MAI KHAO LAND

Beachfront land in Mai Khao. East coast. 3 rai 2 ngan 24sqw. For sale: 45 million baht. 45 million.

Horst Lakits

Resort for sale/lease long term, in Chalong/Rawai Area own big well 22 rooms 2 Rai land large pool Restaurant parking No Agents. lets talk, Horst Lakits, 67/18 Soi Sermsuk, bigasail@samart.co.th, 086 940 1860, 076 383 080.

Laguna - Luxury 1 Bed & Golf Membership For Sale

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

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PROPERTY FOR SALE

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Sea View Land 265 Met. Pub.Rd.

Patong Tower and Andaman Beach suite for sale

Great investment. 3/5 Rai Plots. NS3G Titles.

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

Mountains and Sea Views, Call David 080 692 6114, email: patongrealestate@gmail.com

Owner Sales Appartment “ The Pearl of Naithon “ Leasehold

Total area 226,66 SQM including terrace 41,25 Sqm. 3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms Price THB 13.5 million. MP: 089 814 1458.

Karon Beach New House For Sale/Rent

80 Sqm. 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom, Terrace carport. Nice Sea view.

Sale 5.8 MB. Rent long term 18,000 per month. Gunter Kraus, Phuket, naruchai@gmx.de, 091 040 2471.

Villa For Sale / Rent

Located at Naiharn beach Soi Naya 3, Mountain view, Swimming pool, Balcony, 2 floor, 4 bed room. Total 92 sq.m. Thai 081 958 0542 ENG 081 956 6813.

SPACIOUS 4-BED RAWAI VILLA

Sale/rent. Beautiful, spacious home in 1,038sqm gardens. Three en-suite beds, guest house, 9x4m pool, maid’s room. Living space 320sqm. Reduced to 12,000,000, alangath@gmail.com, 08727 30141.

Phuket Beach Front Land

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

The Base Downtown - Sale/Rent

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

Two-story house in Phuket City

Land 400 sq. m, living area 344 sq.m, 6 rooms, 3 bathrooms, maid’s room with bath.

Fully furnished. Very good for living and business. 15,000,000.-, Pauline Haldemann, haldemwa@hotmail.com, 081 895 0038.

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PROPERTY FOR SALE New Sea View Villa

Premium villa 8B in the prestiques Sunrise Ocean Villas developement is now for sale.

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

2 New Resale Condos 3.9 MB. 7%net ROI

1 bed condos on the market 7%net ROI for 14 years!

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

House for sale

Private pool villa with lovely garden half a rai. Quiet and safe area. 3 bedroom 2 bathroom open kitchen.

160 m2 Situated in Ban Pahra. 12 minutes to PIA, Phuket Airport, Nay Yang beach, and Blue Canyon Golf course. 2 min to Mission Hill Golf course. Price 8 million baht, 225 000 euro, bergsstigen@telia.com, 090 701 4204.

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classifieds@thephuketnews.com

PROPERTY FOR SALE Chalong Villa for sale

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

Alexander Kolesnikov

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

SMALL RESORT BY LAGUNA

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

Lets talk. Owner, 089 594 4067.

House For Sale

Located in Rawai soi Samaki 3, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1 Laundry room, 1 storage room, living area 160 sq.m, Chanot title 280 sq.m. 3.2 MB., Rico9963@hotmail.com, 083 640 9041

Brand new 3 bed villa Onyx

Living area 160 sq.m. Land 200 sq.m. Fully luxury furnished. Open plan living room with kitchen, private & peaceful area, security gate estate, gym. 8.9M, oliver@thurmanngroup. com, 087 877 2320.

Villa for sale

Exclusive villa with pool and garden in Phuket, Rawai/Nai Harn, Land size: 1’700 m2, build up area 400m2. Private sale, no agents please.

36 MB, JasminConsulting@gmx.net

Land for sale - Mission Height

NICE LAND FOR SALE AT MISSION HEIGHT, JUST OVER ONE RAI. Phone 093 629 4400 English, 082 421 4842 Thai.

Alexander Kolesnikov

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

Waterfront Condominium

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

Kata Seaview Condo For Sale

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

For Sale or Rent

4 bedroom 3 bath room with excellent views of Chalong Bay. 3 storage, fully furnished all new swimming pool in quiet area Rawai beach. All inquires. Tidarat, 087 466 5635.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

PROPERTY FOR RENT

Anuphas Golfville House- Kathu

Apartment for rent

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

Luxury 1 bedroom ground floor apartment.

65.s.q.m. Central Patong. Short or long term rental. For details email ianscondo21@gmail.com

2 BDR Bungalow, Nai Harn Beach

For rent with “Free UBC Platinum cable TV”, security, air-con, fridge, stove, quiet area, at end of cul-de-sac, 12,500 per month.

Call 098 017 8818 or 087 884 8972.

Ocean View Land Kamala

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

Rawai Sea View Condominium For Rent

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

Partner for resort wanted

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

Office/Shop for Rent

Land For Sale 3 Mil Baht

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

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

House For Rent at tennis club

2 bedrooms,1 en-suite bedroom,2 bathroom, living area and big veranda. Ideal for tennis coach.

Prefer long term rent. Viewing by appointment only.

Patra, patbittersweet@gmail.com , 081 607 2805.

House in Karon for Sale

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

For Sale/Rent (5 Days - 6 Months)

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

Sea view land in Patong

The last piece of seaview land on prime location in Patong, just 500m from Patong beach, 1.3 KM. to Jungceylon Shopping Mall, Contact: Karuna, kpattarawalee@gmail.com, 089 967 5373.

LUXURY POOL VILLA

BY LAGUNA

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

PROPERTY FOR RENT Villas & Apts Rent-Chalong

2- and 3-bedroom pool villas, 2-bedroom townhouses & studio apartments. Special prices from 700/night or 8,000/month. Rates include WiFi, maid service, cable TV, furnishings. Great location near Big Buddha. info@chalongapartment.com, 086 282 6221, www.chalongapartment.com

4BED 4BATH GOOD LOCATION

A secure 4-bed 4-bath with a swimming pool in Baan Suan Loch Palm. 5 mins to BIS, 12 to 15 mins to Central, Patong and Phuket Town.

65000THB, jenjiramountford@gmail.com

2 bed house for rent, Kathu

Furnished 2 bed house for rent in Kathu, quiet area within easy reach of Tesco Lotus, Central, golf courses and fresh market. 15,000, Nok Roper, daveroper@live.com, 095 257 5382.

Two condos for sale/rent

2 condos for sale 48 sqm. - sale price $60,000 (developer’s price $116,000) & 54,5 sqm. - sale price $70,000 (developer’s price $128,000). Fully furnished, near Central, Big C, BIS, Lotus, hospitals, schools. Communal pool and gym. Short & long time rent available 48 sqm. – THB 10000-15000 per month; 54,5 sqm. – THB 15000-20000 per month + electricity&water, Ekaterina Oseledets, 095 861 7571.

Phuket Office Share @ RPM

Searching for a prime location address as your office on Phuket? We are inviting small companies or individuals to join us in sharing our office space @ ‘Royal Phuket Marina’. Email us or call us on: 076390482 for full details.Phuket Luxury Living, info@phuket-luxuryliving.com, 076 390 482.

Retail space for rent

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

Chalong villa for rent

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

Amazing Sea view Penthouse in Rawai

FOR RENT Amazing Sea view Penthouse in Rawai.

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

House for rent - Near Pah-klok

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

PATONG: 1 and 2 Bed Apartments

2-Bed/2-Bath & Studio for rent. Balcony. Full A/C. Western Kitchen. Modern furnished. All Extras. Fast WIFI free. Quiet Location & well maintained.

Email : khunrei@gmail.com, 084 185 8536.

CHALONG BEACH FRONT LAND

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

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

SPORT 35

Fishing: a ‘no lose’ activity With so many forms of the sport, there’s something for everyone FISHING

CAST AWAY Jimmy Stewart info@fishinginphuket.com

W

ell shipmates, that’s us past the second month of the monsoon season (June), and once again conditions meant fishing was limited to a few days between some pretty serious squalls.

I am often asked, “What’s the best time of the year for fishing?”, to which I regularly reply, “Get out when you can.

Fishing is the most popular participant sport in the world because it’s a ‘no lose’ activity, you either catch or you learn.

Either way it’s better than being scuppered in dry dock.”

There are so many forms of fishing that there’s something for everyone, from a pole off the end of the pier, to what I consider the pinnacle of our sport “Big Game Fishing” for Billfish, which here in Phuket means Sailfish or if you’re lucky, Marlin.

Although I appreciate there are those who would disagree and would explain how “Fly Fishing” is on the verge of being an art form, while others, mostly HK and Singapore types, frantically “Jig” their way to exhaustion.

Fresh water (river and lake), salt water, beach casting and even ice fishing are all just a few examples of recreational fishing. Beyond this there are all the different methods for each, add to that your knots and your tackle, and it’s a hobby that lasts a lifetime.

They say fishermen catch fish and tackle shops catch fishermen. Yes, it’s all part of

@thephuketnews

Contrary to popular belief, the Portuguese Man-O-War is not a jellyfish but a strange creature called a Siphonophoce which has a bladder for a sail and stinging tentacles of up to 30 metres long. Photo: Biusch/Wikipedia the biggest game in the world.

Also in recent news, we have once again been visited by one of the best “line” fishermen on the planet, the infamous Portuguese ManO-War. Contrary to popular belief, the Man-O-War, or Bluebottle as the Asian/Pacific variety is called, is not a jellyfish, but another strange creature called a Siphonophore which has a bladder for a sail and stinging tentacles “fishing lines” of up to 30 metres long hanging from its keel.

Last year as I was pulling in a hand line, there was a very small amount of “snot” on the line which touched the heel of my hand, and believe me you know when you have met one of these painful playmates.

It was like getting lashed with the cat (Cat-O-Nine tails,

pirate punishment), and I only experienced a tiny amount of tentacle on my line. I can’t imagine swimming into one, shiver me timbers.

Even dead, washed up on the beach, be aware they are still dangerous with some countries even closing beaches when they arrive.

About 10,000 Aussies every year go through this painful ordeal, proving what a hardy lot they are. Another great reason for turtle conservation as turtles eat MenO-War or is it Man-O-Wars?

Joke of the month

“Thailand’s sole deepwater tsunami-warning buoy is out of action and will not be replaced until November, but is no cause for alarm, the National Disaster Warning Center (NDWC) told The

Phuket News today (June 20)”.

On making further enquiries as regard the NDWC comment, I was told. “Their IQ results turned out negative,

so everything must be fine”.

Fishing club news

Early in the month the PGFC (Phuket Game Fish-

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS

ing Club) had an emergency meeting, which to all intents and purposes, met to discuss the resignation of Warren Crowe who has run ‘’OUR” fishing competition since its conception.

While the election of office bearers was deferred to the end of the month, it was decided the club would carry on running the competition.

When asked why he resigned, Warren replied: “I have run the competition with little or no help from the committee and all I got in return was derisory and possibly slanderous remarks, so I decided to run the competition independently of the club, and the club is welcome to join in or do what it likes.

“I already have 10 boats booked and confirmed for the March 1, 2, and 3 for the Thailand 2017 Classic and have the biggest sponsor to date, plus as usual, The Phuket News.”

Does anyone else believe in the old adage? “A camel is a horse, designed by a committee?” Watch this space.

Tight lines to all!

Jimmy - fishinginphuket.com

Run: #1588 Saturday July 9 Run Start Time: 4pm Hares: Murkury & Tison (J.C. & Manneken Pis injured) Location: Chao Fa West - TOT Directions: Coming from the north or west, make your way to the Honda Garage on Chao Fa West Rd. Drive south for 2.4 kilometres and opposite the TOT offices turn right at the Family Mart/traffic lights and head towards Villa Zolitude.

Coming from the south, pass Wat Chalong and after 1.2km turn left at the Family Mart/traffic lights and head towards Villa Zolitude. Continue on up the hill for approximately 3km, well past the end of the tarmac. Laager is overlooking Bang Wad Dam. Park carefully and mind the ditch.

Hash Bus Pickup Schedule: Kamala @ Black Cat’s Bar: 2:30pm Patong @ Expat Hotel: 3pm

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

SPORT 37

Ready for kick-off

Phuket FC players are fit for season 2nd leg Continued from page 40...

Coming off the back of a 2-1 victory over Pattani FC in the closing game of the first half of the season, Coach Odd said that he gave the team members a break of about three weeks before calling them back for training late last week.

“After the final game in the first half of the season at the beginning of June, I let the team rest, but all players were called back to report to the training camp at the end of last week. They have been going through rigorous training since that time,” Coach Odd said in a recent interview.

“A large number of the squad are Muslims and therefore, throughout their break, they have been fasting during the Ramadan period, and due to this we have been focusing on physical training more than tactical.

“The players are by no means unhealthy, but the physical training they have been going through for the past week ensures that they are fit and ready to compete in the second leg of the league,” he added.

When asked about the current team line-up, and whether there would be any new additions to the squad for the second leg of the season, Coach Odd explained that the matter had been discussed, but that at the present time, and in the club’s current climate, that was something which was totally out of his hands.

“Will Phuket FC add a new striker or players to the team for the second half of

The Patong Pool League is always looking for new bars to join the fun.

Pool league in Patong hots up POOL

Phuket FC’s coach Pittaya ‘Odd’ Phimanman gives a team-talk during a game in the first half of the AIS Southern Region Division 2 season. Photo: Phuket FC/Facebook the season? Well, only the club’s management are in a position to give an answer to that question,” he said.

“All I can say is that I had a meeting with the club’s management some time ago and discussed the possibility of adding a new striker and players, however, if we get a new striker or new players is a matter that only they can decide.

“I am not currently in a position to say that we are looking for new players, who those players would be or who would be willing to join us,” he added.

Meanwhile, also in lead-up to the start of the second half of the season, Phuket travelled to neighbouring Phangnga FC

on Tuesday evening (July 5) to play a friendly against their Division 2 rivals, a game that was won by Phuket with a single goal.

Speaking to The Phuket News following the game, Coach Odd said that the team performed well despite abysmal weather conditions, and that it was good to see the team perform ahead of Sunday’s league game.

The game was also a chance for Coach Odd to try out some new players who had turned out for trials with the club.

Currently sitting at seventh in the 2016 AIS Southern Region Division 2 on 15 points, six points from the top spot, Phuket FC return to action on

Surfing: where do beginners begin?

SURFING

SKYLAS SURF HOUSE

Tim Campbell info@surf-sup.asia

WHILE SIPPING ON MY cold coconut juice, a very enthusiastic man came up to me asking to rent a surf board. I asked him if he had ever surfed before, and, in an over confident manner, he replied, “Yes, yes, yes, I have had seven lessons on YouTube.”

Hmmm, with a curious frown I gave him a soft top and watched as he ran straight into the shore break, and without paddling, tried to jump on the board to his feet as the wave dumped past him. @thephuketnews

With surfing, it’s often about the board that you use.

Three and a half minutes later he returned completely exhausted and had a look on his face which read, this surfing thing is not for me.

I’ll be the first to admit that surfing takes perseverance, tonnes of water up the nose and days where you catch next to no waves. But when it clicks, and every wave starts to give you that exciting thrill which you were striving for, it was definitely worth all the effort.

Just ask any surfer.

Now beginners listen up!

Don’t be prideful like the man mentioned before, get a proper lesson, start surfing on beaches that have an easy paddle out or a rip current channel, don’t surf at low tide where the waves will dump on the shore, and always use a surf board that’s right for your weight and ability.

Don’t be discouraged if you can’t surf like everyone else at first, as there are many techniques that can help your surfing improve, but initially just remember, keep going, keep trying, keep surfing and ask other surfers for assistance.

See you in the water!

Tim’s Tip: Beginners, borrow or rent different boards so you get a feel for what works for you before you buy.

Sunday with a home match against Satun United who sit at ninth on 13 points. Kick-off is set for 7pm with admission at B50 for adults and free for kids with student ID card.

The Phuket News is proud media sponsor of Phuket FC.

ALL GAMES WERE PLAyed in last Thursday’s (June 30) round of the Patong Pool League.

First up, Sports Bar played at home to Dirty Nellies. It was a closely fought game that saw Dirty Nellies come out 7-4 victors, but only after winning the Beer leg.

Scott from Dirty Nellies went on to win the Killer.

Meanwhile, Ting Tong had a good 9-2 win over league newcomers M&M Bar. The win should have moved Ting Tong closer to league leaders Wet Dreams Bar, but they also had a 9-2 win away from home against Simon & Oils.

Last year’s league winners

Natalie Bar played at home against Amigo and won 7-4.

This game saw the only seven ball clearance of the night which was made by Oh from Natalie Bar. Last but by no means least, Champs Bar played at home against Genius Bar. The game saw Champs get back to their old winning ways with a big 8-3 victory.

The results mean that Wet Dreams Bar stay top of the table with a two points lead over Ting Tong Bar, with Dirty Nellies coming up fast behind in third.

If there are any bars interested in playing a friendly game against any of the teams please contact Scott on 0817289509.

38 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

Putting their orders across

Rosberg-Hamilton crash threatens a big change for F1 season FORMULA ONE BOX OF NEUTRALS Michael Lamonato michael@boxofneutrals.com

I

t was an Austrian Grand Prix that ended with a figurative and literal bang; a crash between championship protagonists Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg that threatens to change the complexion of the season.

The crash itself was the culmination of a race that swung rapidly towards Mercedes – while Lewis Hamilton led confidently from pole as per the brief, Nico Rosberg cut unexpectedly quickly through the field from sixth and was handed an opportunity to race for the win when Sebastian Vettel’s right-rear tyre exploded and prompted a safety car.

Until then, Rosberg and Hamilton were on contrasting strategies, Hamilton on a straightforward one-stop plan and Rosberg on a more

Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team’s Lewis Hamilton reacts after the Formula One Grand Prix of Austria. Photo: Andrej Isakovic.AFP aggressive two-stop, but the latter was supposed to be locked in a duel with the crashed Ferrari driver.

With Rosberg freed from his personal battle and able to push his car, the Mercedes pit wall suddenly found itself with a dilemma.

“It was clear that Lewis’s one stop was perfectly viable to beat everyone else, but not his teammate, because Nico’s two-stop was faster than predicted,” said Mercedes executive director Paddy Lowe.

Keen to ensure Hamil-

ton’s hard-fought win wasn’t about to slip through his fingers through a strategic unravelling, the championship-winning strategists tried to balance the equation.

“We therefore elected to also stop Lewis for another set of soft tyres, and Nico changed onto the supersofts as he didn’t have another set of soft tyres.”

Either situation was due to end with an on-track meeting, but Mercedes bet on Hamilton’s ability to pass on new tyres over his defence on worn ones. What it didn’t count on was Rosberg’s fading brakes.

The conditions were ripe for a crash – both drivers

felt they had earnt their victories only to be given an additional challenge by the team. Hamilton launched a move around the outside, but Rosberg, now with near terminal braking issues, had none of it; he pushed Hamilton aggressively wide – too aggressively, as the stewards later decided – and broke his own front wing in the process.

Hamilton went on to secure victory, but Rosberg finished fourth. An easy Mercedes one-two was lost.

Toto Wolff, Mercedes executive director, was briefly apoplectic and called the crash “brainless” immediately after the race, but

given time to cool the team figurehead returned to the press diplomatically.

“There’s the heat of the moment – it’s either the first lap or the last lap – and you know what? I am fed up with trying to analyse it,” he said.

“In Barcelona [when Rosbe rg a nd Ha m ilton crashed into each other] I was much easier with it because we had 30 races without any collision.

“From my naive thinking I said to myself, ‘Okay, that’s it, they’ve learned their lesson, they’ve seen the consequences and it’s not going to happen any more’. But here we go, it happens again.

“So t he on ly conse quence is to look at all the options available on the table, and one option is to freeze the order of a certain stage in the race. It’s unpopular – it makes me puke myself because I like to see them race – but if the racing is not possible without contact, then that’s the consequence.”

It sets up an intriguing scenario for Hamilton’s home British Grand Prix this weekend, where Rosberg will be due a frosty reception from the enthusiastic fans.

Moreover, with Rosberg in the middle of contract negotiations as his championship lead sits on a knifeedge, tension inside the Mercedes team is poised to hit an all-time high.

Phuket girl, seven, takes TGA GOLF AT SEV EN Y EA RS OF age, Louise Langraf last weekend won the U9 category of the Thai Golf Association (TGA) Golf Junior Championship held at the Katathong Golf Club in Phang Nga with rounds of 65 & 69.

In October last year, Laguna Phuket Golf Club member Louis, then aged just 6 years and 8 months, made history when she became the youngest golfer ever to achieve a hole-in-one on the club’s newly upgraded golf course.

As Louise approached the red tee of the 108-yard 8th hole, she had no idea that she was about to walk into club history. Sending her ball flying high towards the

Louise Landgraf, 7, receives her winner’s trophy. green, Louise watched on in delight as it disappeared into the hole for an ace!

Next up for Louise is another round of the Thai Golf Association Junior Champi-

onship to be held on July 30 and 31 at the Pakasai Golf Course in Krabi, followed by the Laguna Phuket Golf Club Monthly Medal Competition on August 26 and 27. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

SPORT 39

‘Win’ That’s all he wants Manchester United’s new manager Jose Mourinho arrives on the pitch at Old Trafford stadium on Tuesday (July 5). Photo: Oli Scarff/AFP

FOOTBALL

J

ose Mourinho ridiculed predecessor Louis van Gaal’s reliance on having a philosophy and said on Tuesday (July 5) that his only aim as Manchester United manager will be to win.

The 53-year-old self anointed ‘special one’ – who replaced the sacked van Gaal as United boss at the end of last season – was facing the media for the first time since taking the reins at Old Trafford.

United finished fifth under van Gaal last season, failing to qualify for the Champions League, and Mourinho made veiled criticisms of his predecessor by suggesting he would not settle merely for a top-four finish.

“I was never very good at hiding behind words and philosophies. I was never good at that,” said Mourinho, who remarked that he felt he had got the United job at the right time of his life.

“It would be easy to focus

@thephuketnews

on the last three years, to say that we didn’t qualify for the Champions League. It would be pragmatic to say: Let’s try to get back to the top four. I prefer to be more aggressive.

“We want to win.”

Mourinho’s eyes are firmly fixed on re-establishing United as title challengers – after a three year hiatus under first David Moyes and then the autocratic van Gaal – and targeting the Champions League which is off United’s menu next season.

“I don’t hide. I chase Sir Alex’s record in Champions League matches,” said the Portuguese referring to the record amount of Champions League games the Scotsman spent in the dugout which saw him raise the Champions League trophy twice.

“Hopefully it is only one season I am not there.”

Mourinho, who left Chelsea last season under a cloud for a second time just months after guiding them to the title, sought to reassure two iconic United players past and

present – Wayne Rooney and Ryan Giggs.

Rooney he said had a future at United – despite several off colour performances for England at the Euro 2016 finals – whilst Giggs would be welcome back at the club he served for almost 30 years but cut his club ties last weekend.

Mourinho insists he sees Rooney’s future at United as a goalscorer, and not a deeplying midfielder.

Rooney played the final three months of last season in a deeper role following the emergence of teenage youth-team graduate Marcus Rashford in an attacking role.

Mourinho believes 30-yearold Rooney’s attacking threat is still strong, and it would be foolish not to take advantage of that.

“Players change over the years. It’s normal that a player at his [Rooney] age changes.

But there is something that will never change, and that’s the natural appetite to put the ball in the net,” said Mourinho.

“Maybe he is not a num-

ber nine but he will never be a number six. He will never be 50 metres from the goal.

“His passes are amazing but my passes are amazing with no pressure. He will be a nine, a 10, a nine-and-a-half, but never a six, and not even an eight.”

Giggs ended a 29-year association with United last weekend, rejecting the chance to work with Mourinho in order to pursue a career as a manager – although the Portuguese said the Welshman had had little option but to look elsewhere.

“It is not my responsibility that Ryan is not in the club,” Mourinho said.

“The job Ryan wanted is the job the club decided to give me.

“Ryan wanted to be Manchester United manager and the owners, Mr [Ed] Woodward [executive vice-chairman] decided to give the job to me.

“So when you are asking if I offered him a job. He could have been whatever he wanted

to be in the club.

“If one day he wants to come back when I am here, I will never say no.

“And if one day the club of-

fers him the chance to be manager, I think it will something natural and the consequence of his success in his career.”

AFP

Live Sports TV Schedule *Times may be subject to change

SPORT

START STOP

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

Friday July 8 02:00

04:00

EURO 2016 SF2

Germany v. France

Rugby League 16:45

Soccer

18:45

NRL

Eels v. Roosters

Rugby Union 14:30

16:30

Super Rugby

Blues v. Brumbies

16:40

18:40

Super Rugby

Reds v. Chiefs

23:50

01:50

Super Rugby

Lions v. Kings

17:00

01:00

Wimbledon

Men’s Semi Finals

Rugby Union 14:30

16:30

Super Rugby

Crusaders v. Rebels

16:40

18:40

Super Rugby

Waratahs v. Hurricanes

18:50

20:45

Super Rugby

Western Force v. Stormers

22:00

00:00

Super Rugby

Bulls v. Sunwolves

00:10

02:00

Super Rugby

Sharks v. Cheetahs

Rugby League 16:30

18:30

NRL

Bulldogs v. Wests Tigers

Motor Racing 18:45

20:00

Formula 1

Qualifying, Silverstone

01:00

Wimbledon

Ladies Singles Final

15:00

NRL

Panthers v. Sharks

19:30

01:00

Wimbledon

Men’s Final

Motor Racing 18:00

18:45

Formula 1

Raceday, Silverstone

Tennis

Saturday July 9

Tennis

19:30

Sunday July 10 Rugby League 13:00 Tennis

Soccer

18:45

21:30

Formula 1

British Grand Prix

02:00

04:00

EURO 2016 Final

tba v. tba

Sport

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor3@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2016

There’s only one aim for Mourinho, that’s to win > page 39

UNITED THEY STAND Despite management issues, Phuket FC prepare for season second leg

FOOTBALL Matt Pond editor3@classactmedia.co.th

There has been some uncertainty over the future of the club, but the team still stand together as one. Photo: Phuket FC/Facebook

D

espite no formal announcement from any club official past or present regarding the current state of ownership or

management of Phuket FC at the time The Phuket News went to press this week, Andaman Dragon’s coach Pittaya “Odd” Phimanman has been working tirelessly behind the scenes preparing for the second half of the 2016 AIS Southern Region Division 2 season, which kicks off this coming Sunday (July 10).

Continued page 37

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