09-05-2014

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FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

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FORMER POLICE VOLUNTEER JAILED FOR DEALING METH > PAGE 4

‘

It became clear to me that the electorate wanted change, and that my policies were in line with what they wanted

’

MEET PATONG’S NEW MAYOR Wiparatana NaThalang & Steven Layne editor@classactmedia.co.th

P

atong’s mayor-elect, Chalermluck Kebsap, has said she will tackle the town’s problems by trying to convince the people causing the problems to realise that they are damaging themselves in the long run.

Ms Chalermluck has yet to be

confirmed in the post – confirmation from the Central Election Commission is due before the end of this month – but she is confident there will be no problems on that score.

In a wide-ranging interview with The Phuket News this week at her mansion on Phra Barami Rd, the former Member of Parliament said, “The Election commission (EC) is obliged to give approval within one month, which means I should

be official by May 26.

“I’ve been told that the EC has received one appeal – an allegation of election fraud – but to my knowledge the appeal hasn’t been validated by the EC who have not contacted me.

“Even if the appeal is validated, I’ve nothing to hide and am confident that I’ll be confirmed by May 26.

“That said, I’ve already started informal work by talking to various

parties in the private and public sectors.

She won the election convincingly, with more than half of the votes cast. Was she surprised to win by that sort of margin?

Not at all, she says. “During campaigning, it became clear to me that the electorate wanted change and that my policies were in line with what they wanted. I was confident that I would win.”

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Due to heavy pressure from encroachers, Sirinart Park chief moves on > page 7

Persuasion is mayor’s way to tackle problems

Continued from page 1.

Here are the new mayor’s thoughts on a variety of questions put to her during the interview.

What are your main priorities when you start?

I will start to implement all of my five [election campaign platform] policies simultaneously – traffic, flooding, environment, bad water and encroachment on public spaces. All are equal priorities.

And what’s your plan to address flooding and water shortages?

To alleviate flooding, we will dredge Klong Pak Bang [Patong’s main waterway] so that runoff and sediment is carried out more quickly and efficiently after heavy rains.

As for water shortages, I would like to look into the possibilty of collecting and storing rain. Patong is surrounded by hills and so much runoff feeds creeks and ultimately ends out in the ocean, wasted.

We will study how we can collect this valuable water during the rainy season, and how we can feasibly store it.

What about wastewater?

One source of the problem is local residents and businesses illegally dumping their waste into the waterways. The other issue is related to maintenance of the wastewater treatment facility [close to Klong Pak Bang].

Actually, the facility has a capacity to handle up to 23,000 cubic metres per day but the current demand is only about

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

be within reason and regulated.

People should be able to park their car or lie on the beach without being harrassed.

Mayor-elect Chalermluck in the garden of her Patong home. She and her husband have two grown-up daughters.

18,000 cubic metres per day.

Occasionally, equipment breaks down and needs to be fixed.

We still need to study more and ensure the facility is always operating properly. Also, we will have to conduct surveys to identify any areas not in the

coverage area, and link them in.

Garbage is also one of your priorities?

Indeed. I will implement a campaign ‘24-hour tidy Patong’ to raise awareness among locals, not only about reducing garbage, but also the importance of separating wet and dry garbage at home.

Last year, Patong paid Phuket City Municipality B20 million to take and burn our garbage at their incinerator.

Much of this expense can be turned into income, by separating and selling recyclables.

So we’ll start by campaigning at all levels of the community, especially in the schools, as the young people can go on to teach their elders.

Another one of your campaign promises is to returning public land to the public.

Can you elaborate?

Less than one per cent of Patong is public land – namely, the beach and Loma Park. But even this one per cent is not always accessible to the public.

The beach area, for example, is overrun by locals trying to make a living – tuk-tuks and car renters, food sellers, beach chair renters, for example.

I respect the right of people to make a living, but it needs to

And what is your approach to the so-called mafia?

Most of the problems are not caused by the leaders but by those under them. It goes back to the issue of public land being controlled by individuals.

My approach will not be hard-line – there won’t be any crackdowns. I understand their right to make a living, but they also need to understand that that they will eventually not be able to make a living if the tourists stop coming.

What’s the situation with budget?

Patong Municipality collects about B200 million a year from taxes, but our current budget is about double that. The rest comes from Bangkok, but it’s still not enough for everything, so I’ve got to work closely with all departments and agencies to ensure there is adequate budget and that the money is spent where it is needed most.

How will your governance style differ from that of the the previous mayor?

I don’t want to compare myself with my predecessor, but I can tell you about my style.

I will give ordinary Patong people the chance to take part in the administration of Patong.

I want to show people that my intentions of making Patong a better place are sincere.

This is and always has been my home.

Have you appointed deputy mayors yet?

I have some people in mind already, but don’t want to say anything yet. You’ll know after May 26.

Immigration clarifies visa run ‘crackdown’ IMMIGRATION HAVE clarified the current situation on visa hops that has caused so much concern recently.

What emerges is not a “crackdown” as such, but stricter checks being applied at all border posts in the country.

Ranong Immigration, Pol Col Ekkor Butsababodin explained to The Phuket News that the tightening of the rules comes in response to the growing number of crimes committed by foreigners in Thailand, and the number of visitors who are thought to be working illegally here.

Tourists on visa runs are now being required to provide checkable details of where they are staying, with address and contact numbers. They will also be asked what they will be doing while in Thailand, and may be asked to provide proof they have enough money to support themselves.

Col Ekkor explained, “There have been crimes committed by tourists.

Also, some work illegally in Thailand. We are fully computerised now with internet connections, so we can check very fast.

“Tourists may renew 30-day or 15-day visas three times. We will check their details every time.”

One crucial detail Immigration is looking for is evidence that tourists are staying in the places they claim to be staying in.

If Immigration cannot confirm, for three visa runs in a row, where a tourist is staying, then the tourist will get just seven days’ extension and will be told they have to leave Thailand at the end of that time, and return only when they have a new visa from a Thai consulate.

Tuesday is national holiday NEXT TUESDAY (MAY 13) IS VISAKHA Bucha Day, a public holiday. Because it is a holy day, shops, bars and restaurants are barred from selling alcohol for 24 hours from midnight on Monday night.

On Visakha Bucha Day, Buddhists mark three important moments in the life of the Buddha: his birth, his enlightenment and his death.

Devout Buddhists will rise early and go to the wat to make merit and listen to sermons on the Buddha’s teachings. In some temples Buddhists will perform ‘Wien Tien’ in the evening, circling the bodh, or main hall, carrying candles, incense and lotus flowers.

Government offices and many businesses will be shut. thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

PHUKET NEWS

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Two cops ‘could face jail’ for dive industry extortion Anthika Muangrod reporter4@tclassactmedia.co.th

A

Pol Col Pravesana Mulpramook, number two at the PACC: ‘Initially, two non-commissioned Chalong police officers are, we believe, involved.’

special investigation team looking into the allegations of police extortion in the dive industry in Phuket has concluded that there is plausible evidence to believe that at least two Chalong police officers were involved in the rip-offs.

The officers could be fired from the police and be put on trial with jail sentences of up to 15 years looming at the end of the process.

The team from the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC), led by Pol Lt Col Wannop Somchintanakul, was in Phuket from April 28 to Saturday (May 3) to investigate the claims of exortion raised by the Association of Thailand Underwater Sports (ATUS).

Pol Col Pravesana Mulpramook, Secretary-General of the PACC, said at a press conference on Saturday that the investigators had inter-

Graft busters looking into Patong shooting Anthika Muangrod reporter4@tclassactmedia.co.th

IN ADDITION TO PURSUing Chalong police officers involved in extortion of the dive community, investigators from Bangkok are also looking into the strange outcome of a shooting in broad daylight in January last year in which two tourists were shot.

Pol Col Pravesana Mulpramook, Secretary-General Office of Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) revealed in a press conference on Saturday (May 3) that the PACC is examining the case of Australians John Cohen and Mark Shea, who attempted to shoot a Dane who, they said, had cheated them and owed them money.

Cohen opened fire with a pistol but missed his intended victim and instead hit two German tourists, one in the arm and the other in the shoulder.

Kathu Police arrested Cohen, a tattoo parlour owner, one hour later and then arrested Shea, charging them both with attempted murder. @thephuketnews

John Cohen, in handcuffs, answers questions after his arrest in January last year. Photo: Golf Thairat Cohen admitted to shooting at Knudsen because, he said, Knudsen had failed to repay a loan and had also rented a bike from him. Cohen had not seen the bike since.

On April 11 last year they faced the judge who sentenced Cohen to six and a half months in jail, suspended for two years, and fined him B7,500.

Shea was sentenced to six months, also suspended for two years, and a B7,000 fine.

The sentences were only for carrying an unlicensed firearm in public. The attempted murder charge appears to have disappeared somewhere in the

process.

“From our initial investigation, we have clear evidence that there was a problem with the way the case was written up by the police,” Col Pravesana said on Saturday.

“The case is over but we have received a complaint about the performance of the investigating officers and other relevant people [in the legal system] who were involved.

“We are investigating and we can already see there is merit in the complaint.

“We expect to finish this case not later than next month,” he added.

viewed more than 10 dive instructors who claimed to be victims of the extortion, as well as a number of Chalongbased police officers.

“The police took 17 diving instructors to the police station and investigated them one by one.

“Those who didn’t have full documentation or work permits were fined but the police didn’t touch the ones who had work permits.

“What we found was that the police told them that if they didn’t want to be checked regularly, they should pay the officers a monthly fee of about B3,000.

“Initially, two non-commissioned Chalong police officers are, we believe, involved with the extortion.

“We are building the case but we must wait for completion of witness questioning and the gathering of evidence before we can proceed further.”

Col Pravesana said that if the PACC finds the accusations have merit, the police officers

could face both disciplinary and criminal action.

On the disciplinary side, if found culpable, they will be expelled from the police force and possibly lose their pension rights.

On the criminal side, it will be up to the court to decide whether they are guilty and, if they are, how much time they will spend in jail. The maximum penalty for extortion is 15 years.

“We expect to complete the investigation soon. We will decide who did wrong by next month and send the result to the PACC investigation board.

“We have to do it fast to set an example to heads of government organisations [in general].”

Claude de Crissey, French Honorary Consul and owner of diving companies, also speaking at the press conference, held at his offices in Royal Place, Phuket Town, said that foreign staff would obey the law.

“If the Provincial Employment Office says that they must not carry customers’ bags because this is a job reserved for Thai tour guides [one of the accusations that apparently allowed the accused police to put pressure on their victims], then they will not do it.”

In the future, he said, he would get his dive instructors to sign a paper stating that they understand what they can and cannot do at work.

However, he added, “Yes, we have rules and we must follow the rules. But if you apply the rules too strictly you will destroy the economic system.”

Col Wannop told The Phuket News, “You may think that the government sector never really takes charge in anything.

“Many times you could say that they come and then they go and the issue just fades away.

“But this is not the case with the PACC – we are true and we always take action.”

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arry Halpin, the former Tourist Police volunteer arrested in December last year on crystal meth charges, has been sentenced to nine years and eight months in jail for dealing crystal methamphetamine (ya ice) and overstaying his visa.

Long-term expat Halpin admitted the crime during his court hearing, and because of this his sentence was reduced to four years and 10 months in gaol, a Phuket Provincial Court spokesperson told The Phuket News.

He was fined B500,000, which was also reduced to B250,000 because of his confession.

Halpin was arrested on December 14, 2013. Phuket Police said they first caught a man named Loesak, also known as Nan Thaitae, 25, in possession of ya ice, around 9.30pm on December 14. He

Halpin after his arrest, with evidence, from left: his statement, bottle with crystal meth, scales, phone and makeshift water pipe for smoking ice. told police that Halpin had bought ya ice from him, with the intent to sell to tourists and teenagers in Chalong, Karon, Rawai and other areas.

Police asked Loesak to

call Halpin to set up a deal, then swooped on the New Zealander at the Chalong Villa Resort and Spa. In the room where Mr Halpin was staying, police found 18.45 grammes of ya

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Former Police volunteer jailed for dealing meth Claire Connell editor1@thephuketnews.com

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FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

ice, a digital scale, a Samsung Galaxy phone and other drug-related equipment, including a makeshift pipe for smoking ice.

Halpin was arrested and charged with possession of a category one drug with intent to sell.

Initially he admitted possession of the drugs but denied he was selling.

At the time of his arrest, Halpin, 52, was a former long-time Tourist Police Volunteer, and very well known across the island – particularly in Chalong where he lived and was based for work.

Halpin used to own a dive shop called Raya Divers on the Chalong Pier road, with another shop in Khao Lak, but it is not known if he was still involved in the running of the business.

Halpin was understood to have lived in Phuket for at least 15 years and has a 13-year-old daughter who lives on the island.

Seized coral ‘was for black market’ POLICE BELIEVE THAT 621 live branches of coral they seized last Friday (May 2) from an abandoned long-tail boat near Rawai was left by poachers intending to sell the rare coral on the black market to aquarium designers.

Chalong police were alerted in the morning by villagers in the area of Klong Pak Bang, behind Rawai Municipality, that suspected poachers were suspiciously waiting in a longtail boat.

But by the time police arrived at the scene, the culprits had vanished, leaving behind a boat full of freshly poached coral branches.

Police suspected the culprits had been tipped off by someone about the planned police raid.

Also found inside the boat were diving equipment, chisels and an air compressor. All were seized as evidence.

Conservation officials clean off the pieces of coral before taking them for identification.

The coral was transported to Phuket’s Coastal and Marine Resources Conservation Centre, where studies revealed that it included at least three species – Catalapsyll, Jardinei and one as yet unidentified type.

All were classified as rare types and are believed to grow at depths of no less than 20

metres.

The seizure of coral follows another incident on April 28 in which a group of researchers were mistaken by dive professionals as coral poachers.

The team, including students and scientists from the United States and Thailand, were taking samples as part

of a study by the Chulabhorn Research Institute (CRI) to explore the possibility of coral containing cancer curing properties.

Police do not believe there is a link with that research party and last Friday’s seized boat-load of coral. Investigations are ongoing.

Eakkapop Thongtub

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Beijing to set up consulate in Phuket CHINA HAS APPOINTED a long-awaited Consul for Phuket – a full-time government employee rather than a volunteer honorary consul like those employed on the island by most countries.

On Tuesday (May 6) ViceConsul Wang Huijian from the Haad Yai Consulate, who has been named chief of mission to Phuket, came with her assistant to meet Governor Maitri Inthusut and discuss where the Consulate will be.

Gov Maitri said “Even though there is no Chinese Consulate now, Chinese people here are already serious about taking care of Chinese tourists, for example by adding Chinese language to public signs to help the tourists.

“There are several cities in China with which Phuket it twinned, and the Phuket Friendship City initiative arranges exchanges of students from China and the island to learn each other’s culture and tradition.”

He asked Ms Wang to warn Chinese tourists, through the tour companies, about the risks of swimming at Phuket’s beaches.

“We want Chinese tourists to respect and follow the beach warnings. Also, before boarding a boat to go to another island, they should check the weather forecast in order to minimise risk, especially during the [upcoming] southwest monsoon season.

“City tours, visiting the old town and shopping centers are good alternatives for tourists when it is wet and windy.”

Ms Wang said, “In the past year, 10.7 million Chinese tourists came to Thailand, with one million of those coming to Phuket. We expect that number to double this year.

“The Chinese Consul in Phuket will take care of and protect these Chinese tourists.”

Up until now all consular assistance for Chinese in Phuket has been provided from the consulate in Haad Yai, an awkward and inefficient longdistance arrangement.

Suthicha Sirirat thephuketnews

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Serial car thief ‘may be member of gang’ Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

M

ore than two years af ter they were alerted to her activities, police on Sunday (May 4) arrested Sukanya Jantanarak, 40, for the theft of more than 50 cars from rental companies.

She was nabbed by police outside a gold shop on Srisoonthorn Rd in Cherng Talay where, she admitted, she was going to pawn some gold to rent yet another car – and sell it.

Many of her victims, hearing of her arrest, gathered at Cherng Talay Police Station.

Pol L t C ol S o m m a i Onkam, Inspector in charge of investigation at Cherng Talay, said he thinks that Sukanya may be part of a gang that steals cars to order.

He said that Sukanya rented cars in tourism centres around Phuket, focusing especially on Honda CRVs and Toyota Fortuners.

Aided by a woman called Suphalak Krootmanee, who is still at large, and who would act as “guarantor”, she would initially rent the car for a day or two then go back and rent it for a longer period, offering between B20,000 and B70,000 a month.

After a few weeks she and the car would disappear.

Sukanya Jantanarak, pictured after her arrest. She has admitted 52 car thefts.

The next thing the owners knew was when they would get a call from Sukanya demanding money from them if they wanted their car back. If they paid, she would give them an address where the car could be found.

However, when they went to the address they would be told by the person there that he or she had paid good money for the car and if they wanted to get it back they would have to pay more.

If the owner did not pay either Sukanya or the new “owner”, then the car would be sold on, sometimes being smuggled into a neighbouring country.

Col Sommai said that Sukanya was well known to the Cherng Talay Police; she had

been arrested many times in the past for gambling – at which she was a “master”.

She was also wanted by Cherng Talay Police on five warrants for theft of various kinds, and on multiple warrants issued by other police stations on the island.

Sukanya, after her arrest on Sunday, admitted to stealing 52 cars but kept quiet about who else was involved.

Col Sommai said he believed she might be part of an organised gang. Sukanya, he pointed out, admitted when she was arrested that she was about to pawn some gold to raise the money to rent another car – a Fortuner that had “already been ordered” by a buyer.

Kwanjai Keawsophat, the owner of rental car in Cherng Talay said she had last encountered Sukanya three years ago. Sukanya rented a car from Mrs Kwanjai several times but after about 10 days Sukanya called to say that if she wanted her car back she would have to pay B500,000.

She would then have to go to Krabi to retrieve the vehicle. Mrs Kwanjai informed the police instead. That was the last time she heard from Sukanya.

Ratthana Woranut, owner of a rental car at Surin Beach, said she encountered Sukanya two years ago when Sukanya

rented her car and paid on time for two months.

Then, however, Sukanya disappeared with the car, leaving Mrs Ratthana “in a terrible situation”.

“I have no income from renting the car, yet I have to continue paying instalments to the bank. If I cannot keep up the payments I could lose my house [which was pledged as a guarantee for the car loan].”

She said that now Sukanya had been arrested, she hoped she would get her car back.

The chances of that happening, however, seem slim.

In March 2012, investigators had a piece of luck when a car equipped with a GPS device was stolen by Sukanya.

They tracked it to the Nakhon Sri Thammarat home of Thanatat Eakkabutra. There they also found two of four other cars missing from Phuket, along with 14 others from other places.

Thanatat told police that the two women had sold him the cars cheap. He was taken in for questioning.

After swiping the two cars the truck ended up hitting a tree.

Out-of-control truck in fatal black spot crash TWO PEOPLE DIED JUST before noon last Friday (May 2) when the silver Honda Jazz they were in was hit by a six-wheel truck, coming in the opposite direction, whose driver lost control after heavy rain.

The accident took place near the curve in front of the Wang Thalang store on Chaofa West Rd – where local people staged a roadblock protest last Sunday (April 27) to demand improvements to the road to reduce the number of accidents.

An elderly woman and a boy in the Jazz died in the impact. They were not immediately identified. The truck also hit a blue Honda Jazz – traveling in the same direction

@thephuketnews

The stolen watch, probably unique in Phuket, looks like this one. Photo: Hublot but I have the documents in Sweden. It is unique and if anyone sees a watch like this, it is 99 per cent certain it is the same one.”

Mr Hultner said that,

along with the watch, thieves also stole B100,000 in cash, an iPhone 5 and a white gold necklace with three diamonds.

“The value of this is not in line with the watch but the sentimental value is very high as this was given to my wife by my mother and my mother got it from my grandmother.”

He reported the crime to police. If anyone has details of where the watch is or any other information, they can contact Mr Hultner by email to johan@vertigophuket. com or by calling 083 280 9100. Thai speakers can call his assistant, Woramas Rattanamanie, at 087 290 1019.

Claire Connell

as the silver Jazz – and was then rammed from behind by a pick-up truck carrying bottled water.

When the police arrived, the driver of the six-wheeler, Uthai Pilaput was standing by the truck, which had ended up ramming a tree.

The driver of the pick-up was injured and was taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital, as were the bodies of the two victims.

Last Sunday’s protest resulted in a visit from Governor Maitri Inthusut and the immediate installation of speed bumps. It seems these may not have been enough.

Eakkapop Thongtub

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Expat offers big reward for B1.4m stolen watch PHUKET RESIDENT JOhan Hultner is on the hunt for his prized B1.4m Hublot Big Bang pink gold watch after it was stolen when his rented villa was robbed on April 22 – and he’s offered a B100,000 reward for its safe return.

Mr Hultner, who has lived on Phuket for 13 years, said the watch was stolen when thieves broke through a locked sliding door at his villa at Surin Springs, near Surin Beach.

“The value of the watch is about B1.4 million, and I have put up a reward of B100,000 to anyone that can provide information to help return the watch.

“The watch is numbered

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Five held for skimming

B700k, cloned cards and skimming equipment seized Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

K

aron Police have charged f ive foreigners, suspected members of an international ATM skimming gang, with possession of fabricated ATM electron cards and other components thought to be used for skimming.

Police said the suspects had stolen no less than B700,000 from ATM machines before their arrest last Friday (May 2).

The suspects include three Norwegian nationals of Sri Lankan descent – Hussain Qasim, 31; Qaiser Abbas Sha, 20, and Nganapooranan Ratnasabapathy, 51; as well as Viothan Thiyagarsa, 29, a Dutch national and A. Nesaruban Arunachalam, 28, an Indian national.

Three of the suspects were aprehended near ATM machines, while the other two were arrested at an undisclosed

Three of the five are questioned by police. hotel in Karon.

Police were alerted by locals about suspicious foreigners who were spending an unusual length of time at several different ATMs, and using the machines repeatedly.

Police arrived to one of the ATM machines in front of the Metadee hotel on the road

that runs in front of Club Med, where they found Mr Viothan making multiple withdrawals.

Police searched the man, who had a bag with an “unusual amount of money”in his possession. After detaining the suspect, police continued to inspect other ATMs in the area.

They soon identified two more suspects, Mr Nganapooranan at an ATM near the Ket Kwan junction and Mr A. Nesaruban near an ATM in front of Dee Dee Massage.

The ensuing interrogations led police to track down the other two suspects, who were nabbed right as they

were allegedly trying to flee their hotel.

Police seized a total of B700,000 in cash from the first three suspects, as well as a number of fake ATM cards and skimming devices the men had in their possession.

Further investigations revealed that the suspects had traveled to Phuket two times before this trip – in late 2013 and in March this year. For this trip, the suspects had arrived on the island on April 28.

Police said that the suspects’ habits were suspiciously similar each time: Their previous visits lasted seven days and in lieu of paying a hotel deposit and room fees up front, the men had convinced hotel staff to allow them to submit their passports as collateral and would later come to pay their bills.

Police believe the men are part of an international skimming network. Investigations are ongoing.

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Italian man’s death ‘was most likely a suicide’ POLICE BELIEVE THAT an Italian man found hanging by his neck from the side of the Happy Apartment building in Nanai Rd, Patong, last Friday (May 2) committed suicide.

After the discovery of the body, Kusoldharm staff hauled it up to the roof for police to investigate.

The corpse was identified as that of Roberto Bechetti, 46, from Italy.

Danucha Sinprai, a somtam seller in front of the apartments told police that she had seen the man walk into the building holding a nylon rope in his hand.

Police found a receipt for the rope in the dead man’s pocket.

Based on this, police believe his death was suicide, not murder. However, the investigation continues.

Eakkapop Thongtub

Gov makes promises to ‘megajam’ villagers PROOF THAT MOB ACTION and blocking roads achieves ends that cannot otherwise be met came at the end of last week when Governor Maitri Inthusut met with villagers at the Baan Mak Prok Mosque in Mai Khao to hear their grievances.

The meeting came in the wake of the massive traffic jam on the night of April 23 when the villagers blocked Thepkrassatri Rd, the main north-south highway, just to the north of the airport, for seven hours, causing gridlock for many kilometres in each direction.

The blockade was lifted after the Governor stepped in, agreeing to suspend four officers from Tah Chat Chai

police station and to stage a re-enactment of a particularly nasty attack in which a 25-year-old pregnant woman was knocked off her motorbike, breaking her leg and then dragged into bushes and raped by 17-year-old twins, who have since been arrested.

The follow-up meeting addressed more prosaic needs – mostly improvements to local utilities and security.

Joined by Vice-Governor Jamroen Thippayapongtada, the Governor agreed to changes to the traffic lights on the old airport road; extension of the public water system to homes that at present suffer from drought in then dry season; extension of the electricity grid to cover 18 homes that don’t

Gov Maitree listens to local people’s views at the meeting in Baan Mak Prok Mosque. have mains power; and more street lights will be strung along the road leading to Wat Mai Khao – the road where the rape took place.

The Governor also prom-

ised to find money for a multipurpose pavilion or ethics center, a football field, a volleyball court, and a park where people can exercise.

At the meeting Gov Maitri

said, “The Thepkrasattri Rd blockade on April 23 caused traffic jam for a long time but in the end everything turned out well.

“I have already talked with

the police and local people about improving relations between them.

“Today I want to focus on controlling drug abuse, submitting tips about criminal activity [to the authorities], setting up a community watch, reducing motorcycle accidents, and security of life and property.

“I also support the culture and tradition of Islam, through the building of the main mosque in Tambon Mai Khao.

“For security, Tah Chat Chai police will set up three or four checkpoints at places requested by local people.

“I want to leave you with four thoughts: smile, collaborate, love each other and cherish Islam.”

Suthicha Sirirat

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Sirinart chief pulls out, cites huge pressure Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

C

heewapap Cheewatam, the chief of Sirinart Marine National Park since August 2012, has been granted a transfer, at his own request, to the Royal Forestry Department (RFD).

He explained, “The longer I stay, the more dangerous it gets. There are pressures from all directions. The [encroachers] in Sirinat Park have power in terms of money, influence, prestige, law, and politics.

“When I want to go to work, I always have to be careful about security. There are constant threats from them.”

Mr Cheewapap was appointed in August 2012 by the DNP’s director-general at that time, Damrong “The Demolisher” Pidech, who launched a wide-ranging and very high-profile investigation into large-scale encroachment into the park.

Mr Damrong himself knew a thing or two about pressure, and arrived in Phuket accompanied by guards carrying automatic weapons.

Mr Cheewapap has been under almost constant pressure.

Just a month after his appointment he denied reports that he had received death threats but admitted that he had “been warned to be very careful”.

He has also been the subject of a smear campaign, he said.

“There’s been news that I’m pursuing them because I want money from them. That’s not true. I’ve been offered money time after time and I’ve never taken it.

“For example, there was an offer of B30 million if I would approve an application for a Chanote [land paper] covering 300 rai. These people work as a team. They offer B1-3 million for each 10 rai.

“I want to move, not because I’m afraid – I have lodged complaints with the police

covering five or six parcels of land – but because I want to give an opportunity to others.”

Samak Donnapee, head of the National Parks Office, agreed that powerful forces were at play.

He said that about 100 cases of encroachment have been reported to the DNP but no one has been charged or arrested since Mr Damrong launched his probe in 2012 “because each investor who encroaches on land is an influential person both in political and financial terms”.

Nipon Chotiban, DirectorGeneral of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) revealed on Sunday (May 4) that he signed the papers to transfer Mr Cheewapap with immediate effect.

Replacing him is Kitipat Tharapiban, DNP forest technical specialist and former head of the Mae Ping National Park in Chiang Mai.

Noisy Phuket Town bars get official ‘purple pee’ visits EIGHTY ONE CUSTOMERS – both Thais and foreigners – who were enjoying themselves at two bars on Phang Nga Rd, Phuket Town, had their revelries ruined on the night of April 30.

At 10:30pm the two establishments received visits from officials who required that the music be turned off and that all of the staff and customers pee in little plastic bottles.

The raids came on the orders of Governor Maitri Inthusut, who had received complaints that the two places, Zippy Bar and Hua Pan Store, did not have entertainment licenses and were pumping out highvolume noise well into the wee hours.

Arun Sing-Inn, Chief of the Security Affairs Branch, who led the raids, explained, “Governor Maitri received complaints that the music was so loud that it was bothering a lot of people living nearby.

“We checked both places and found that they had @thephuketnews

Officials collect urine samples for drug testing. no entertainment licenses to open the entertainment services. They have only business licenses, which mean that if they want to provide entertainment they must apply for a separate entertainment license.

“They have been warned that they must not play music later than midnight or they will be closed down.”

He noted that both places had also built extensions without planning permission.

The one positive note for the two bars was that all of the urine samples donated by staff and customers – 50 men and 31 women – turned out negative for the presence of narcotics.

No one was arrested, Mr Arun said. However, the police made a record of the raids and the managements were advised about what they must do so that there are no more complaints.

Suthicha Sirirat

7

‘The longer I stay, the more dangerous it gets.’ Cheewapap, in uniform, with Damrong ‘The Demolisher’ Pidech, who appointed him boss of Sirinart Park.

Mr Nipon described Mr Kitipat as “a professional in making document about borders. It’s believed that he will be able to solve the land encroachment problem in Sirinat National Park with full support from the DNP.” Mr Cheewapap said that despite the change of jobs he would return to Phuket today (May 9) to brief his successor.

He added that he would work alongside him to ensure that any plot of land for which there is clear evidence of encroachment will have its papers canceled before he moves full-time to the RFD. His new job, with the of-

ficial title of Forest Technical Specialist (at Civil Service Level 8) involves him taking on more responsibilty because it is nationwide.

He noted that his involvement with Sirinart will not end with his move because some aspects of the Sirinart encroachments come under the RFD remit.

Mr Samak said that Mr Cheewapap asked to be moved somewhere else because of the pressure from business people and owners of luxury resorts and villas.

These people put pressure not only on Mr Cheewapap, but also on members of his family,

Mr Samak said.

Mr Cheewapap had told him that one “investor” offered him B30 million to drop a land encroachment investigation.

When he didn’t do so, the investor put pressure on a relative of Mr Cheewapap who also worked for the government.

Bunchob Sutthamanaswong, director-general of the RFD said that Mr Cheewapap had been to see him and told him he wanted the transfer because he was worn out from the pressure.

“I had no hesitation in backing his application for transfer,” he said. “I’m happy to use him in suppression of forest cases.”

8

PHUKET NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Ben gets his skates on Claire Connell editor1@classactmedia.co.th

E

leven-year-old Phuket student Ben McMillan is well on the way to building a new concrete skatepark for himself and fellow students at Phuket International Academy Day School (PIADS).

What started as a school project to build a skate park has now become reality, and Ben believes it will be finished in a couple of months once the builders start.

He says the idea first came to him when he starting skateboarding around six months ago. He thought it would be great to have a halfpipe made from wood on school grounds, which would bring all the students together and provide a place where they can have fun.

“Then I thought of making it a bit bigger and a bigger challenge.”

Ben’s idea grew and the school held a carwash fundraiser a couple of months ago where B27,000 was raised, bringing the total funds raised to B47,000. Ben estimates the whole project will cost around B150,000. PIADS has offered to loan Ben the money, which

Ben McMillan with classmate and friend Elin Ydmark.

will be reimbursed with fundraising money.

At the school at the moment there is a concrete area for the secondary school students, but primary school students don’t have much room to skate. The skate park will allow students to play during their break times,

and a teacher will be on duty.

Safety gear, including helmets and knee and elbow pads, will be required by those using the park.

Ben says the school currently has a close relationship with students at the nearby Bang Jo Burmese school, and

While the skate park will be initially open to school students only, the plan is to make it available to the public at a later date.

“This is a new experience for the school, and it’s something that not every school has,” Ben says, adding that his father Ralph and teacher James Forsythe have been helping out a lot.

A beach party fundraiser will be held on May 24 at Gaia Restaurant on Layan Beach at 4pm, with help from classmate Elin Ydmark, 10. The entry price is yet to be set, but it will probably be between B200 and B400. There will be student music performers from around Phuket as well as activities for children.

Elin is helping to organise this as part of her school project, “The Joy of Music”.For more details or to get involved he hoped the skatepark could to perform in the concert, conbe used to teach the students tact Ben on bjmcmillan02@ how to skate.

The design will be finalised gmail.com Stand Up Projects also are once he talks to more students at the school to get their views fundraising for a new comon what the park needs. Nam- munity skatepark in the Bang ing rights will be available to Tao area, and have held several fundraisers recently. the highest bidder.

France thanks police for their swift action ERIC FRANCELET, INterior Security Attaché from the French Embassy in Bangkok, visited Phuket last week to thank police for their swift action following the murder of French citizen Fabrice Boigeol on April 18.

Police have arrested a Myanmar national, Shwe Oo Dam, and are looking for his cousin, Maung Myo. Mr Francelet, whose portfolio includes police relations,

met with Provincial Police Commander Pol Maj Gen Ong’art Piewruangnon and presented him and other officers with medals from the French government.

Mr Francelet stressed that no one was blaming Phuket, a famous tourist attraction that many French people like to visit. Robbery, he pointed out can occur in any country, including France.

Suthicha Sirirat

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

IN BRIEF THALANG

Eight arrested for dealing meth Following the arrest of a low-level drug dealer in Thalang on Saturday (May 3) police worked up the supply chain, eventually arresting eight people for dealing in methamphetamine.

In all they arrested five men and three women and seized 588 methamphetamine pills and just under 100 grams of crystal methamphetamine

KOH YAO YAI

Taiwanese tourist drowns off island A 64-year-old Tawainese tourist, Chung-Hsih Lu, drowned off Koh Yao Yai Island last Friday afternoon while swimming after lunch with a tour group.

When Mr Lu did not return to the beach for the trip back to Phuket, the boat driver spent 15 minutes looking for him on the water, finally spotting him floating unconscious.

Rescue staff tried to revive him but failed, and police from Koh Yao, accompanied by a doctor, confirmed his death from drowning.

PATONG

Pothole road kills one more The mess in Patong that goes by the name of Phang Muang Sai Kor Rd, to the east of Jungceylon, has claimed another victim.

Subin Kaewpakdee, 34, was driving his motorbike back home at 1am on May 1 when he hit a pothole, lost control and fell into the road.

A car following him ran over his head, killing him.

The driver did not stop.

Ekkapop Thongtub

EARLY BIRDS GET VOUCHERS Super shoppers Nikki (right) and her partner show off their H&M vouchers for being first in line for the new fashion store’s opening at Central Festival Phuket on Saturday (May 3). The pair had been waiting outside the store since 5am and were joined by hundreds more in a queue that extended to the forecourt of the mall. The new H&M store is the first to open in southern Thailand. thephuketnews

Opinion THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

OPINION

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

9

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editor@classactmedia.co.th

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Chiang Rai’s famed White Temple smashed by quake T hai men b ig ge s t cheaters, small penis size blamed Strong earthquake shakes northern Thailand Suspected ATM skimmers nabbed in Karon, B700k and skimming devices seized Sharp lesson for Phuket bed-jumper Monks defrocked, get rehab for Phuket garden drug parties Former Phuket police volunteer Halpin jailed for dealing meth Noisy Phuket Town bars get an official visit Aussie accused of paedophilia dies in jail Arrest warrant issued for Russian woman in Phuket death crash

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

EDITORIAL

Patong’s new hope

A

refreshing breeze of hope came blowing over the hill with the election of a new Patong mayor last week (see page 2 for exclusive interview with the mayor-elect Chalermluk Kebsap). Indeed, elections can be great vehicles for initiating change, at least in theory.

They provide a transparent platform for the populace to monitor and track progress, or lack thereof.

A time when everything is thrown on the table – all the dirty laundry, and in particular the incumbent’s shortcomings and inability to live up to the expectations of the electorate.

It’s a common story in democratic societies the world over, and Patong will likely prove to be no exception: An outspoken challenger, armed with the promise of

change and restoration of hope, courageously steps up to embrace the weight of the world on their shoulders.

But as we have seen time and again, elections on their own rarely yield the desired changes, at least to the degree promised in the heat of the campaign. The last two US presidential polls were classic cases in point.

Obama promised the world and when the electorate got only the moon, it wasn’t long before the pointing fingers came out... back to Square One. While it’s easier to pass the buck on to one individual – however charismatic, talented or outspoken they may be – let’s be honest, if we really want to see changes, the role of the electorate and other concerned citizens needs to

extend well beyond the polling station.

There is no doubt that former MP Ms Chalermluck has the experience and will to successfully lead the implementation of at least some of the needed changes in Patong, but such change will never be realised without the will and cooperation of the people.

For it is Patong’s residents, officials, police, business owners, staff, and visitors who together created and contribute to the underlying issues, and it is they who hold the key to their future. Change is not magic and it won’t happen overnight, but it is inevitable.

With that, The Phuket News would like to wish Ms Chalermluck and the town of Patong the best of luck in the long and winding road ahead.

I am based in Chalong and go to the beach there every day.

Thousands of tourists wander down the beach to board the many speedboats.

I wonder if the local government does beach clean ups in the interest of tourists?

There are many hundred local people who, thanks to tourism, have a job.

To be quite honest, I know who makes the mess. It is the people who take the tourists out on the boats! I know, as I am in the same business and watch on a daily basis what is going on.

The word education comes to mind. It is never too late to learn.

Wolfgang

Suspending belief [Re. Russian given 2 months suspended sentence for Phuket assault, fined B10k] Can someone tell me how our Russian friend can get two suspended sentences in two days? When does a suspended sentence become an actual gaol time sentence?

Punching a father in front

of his children, what a hero.

Disgusted

A fair deal?

[Re. Phuket Gov makes multiple promises to ‘megajam’ villagers] So they cause a great deal of inconvenience and serious disruption to hordes of people and they are rewarded with an extraordinary amount of ‘gifts’.

Everyone in my area is peaceful, so we are stuck with pot-holed dirt roads, no lighting and empty promises for the past 10 years to improve the (public) roads.

Something wrong somewhere!

Michael Archer

Skimmer alert [Re. Suspected ATM skimmers nabbed in Karon, B700k and skimming devices seized] I read the other week that the latest skimming devices come with not only an almost undetectable card reader, but also an identical keyboard overlay, which transmits the card PIN number to the waiting thief – no camera needed.

It’s getting more and more difficult to spot what’s fake and what’s real. geoffphuket

Skating dream [Re. Phuket student plans to build new skatepark] I don’t believe the school’s money should be spent for a small group, the money would well be used on more important projects, that all students can benefit from, it’s not as though skateboarding is a big pastime on Phuket, or anywhere in Thailand.

Having said that, why do we get so many stories on such a mediocre subject? One thing about the photo, no sign of safety equipment. Will the school be held responsible for any injuries sustained by those using the facility?

Duty of care comes to mind.

Laurie Howells Hi Laurie, it is amazing that I have the opportunity at my age to reach my goal and build something that I love.

Skateboarding is a great sport, it brings kids together,

Editor

SIMON OSTHEIMER Managing Editor editor@classactmedia.co.th From Hong Kong; a decade’s experience as editor of magazines and newspapers in Shanghai (City Weekend, that’s Shanghai), Beijing (tbjhome, Urbane), Hong Kong (Time Out Hong Kong), Kuala Lumpur (Vision KL), Bangkok (Bangkok 101) and Phuket. Contributor to Esquire, Fah Thai, Tiger Tales, Conde Nast Traveler, Silkroad, Vacations & Travel, Travel & Leisure, Voyeur, SCMP, CNN, Surface, Dwell and others.

ALASDAIR FORBES Executive Editor 087 884 9964 execeditor@classactmedia.co.th From the UK; 40 years as a journalist and editor on magazines and newspapers in the UK, Middle East, Hong Kong and Thailand: Cheshire Observer, Chester Chronicle, Saudi Gazette, Gulf Mirror, Gulf Construction, Gulf News, Hongkong Standard, Asian Business (Editor) and Phuket Gazette (Managing Editor for seven years).

CLAIRE CONNELL News Editor editor1@classactmedia.co.th From New Zealand; BA (English) from University of Otago; Diploma in Journalism from the University of Canterbury. Five years’ experience at Gisborne Herald and Marlborough Express.

J.P. MESTANZA editor2@classactmedia.co.th From USA; Degree in Journalism and Media Studies, from Rutgers University. Three years experience at The Jersey Journal, Sports Page Magazine, and My9 News.

it builds confidence and it allows us to be risk takers.

Safety is a big concern and in my proposal I have a page on safety at the park.

Also the school is not paying for this, I am raising money for it and the school is providing the land; please come to our fundraising event at Gaia on Bangtao Beach on May 24 and you can see how big skateboarding is here in Phuket and how it can bring all people together.

I hope you can come.

Ben

Beautiful story [Re. Phuket: An Australian couple’s journey to adopt a Thai orphan] Oh my gosh, what a wonderful story. I had tears in my eyes with pure joy for little Ikki and his Aussie family.

I am so jealous that I (as a gay man with a Thai partner) cannot experience the same overwhelming joy of adopting a Thai child and surrounding them with so much love, happiness, and a secure life.

Steve Pettman

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

KODCHANAT THINSEPON

Sport Editor

HAVE YOUR SAY Never too late

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10 THAILAND NEWS

IN BRIEF TAK

Police told to be friendly to migrant workers Immigration police in Tak have been told to be more friendly with immigrant workers along the border following allegations of racism. In a move to repair their negative image, police are being encouraged to make meksui, a Myanmar word for friend, with immigrant workers, especially those from Myanmar.

PRACHIN BURI

Parks, army battle to keep complex status The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation says it will work with the army to stop Unesco downgrading the world heritage status of Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex as a result of illegal logging.

Songtham Sooksawang, director of National Parks and the Protected Areas Innovation Institute, said more frequent patrols between department officials and army personnel will be introduced.

BANGKOK

Yingluck removed, new acting PM The Constitutional Court on Wednesday ruled to remove caretaker Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra from office for the unlawful removal of Thawil Pliensri as secretary-general of the National Security Council (NSC) in 2011.

The court also ruled that nine current cabinet members who took part in the meeting on September 6, 2011 that passed a resolution to transfer Mr Thawil to the post of adviser to the prime minister had forfeited the right to serve in the cabinet.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Is this BKK’s worst bus? to make as many round trips as they can a day.

Nattha Thepbamrung

IT’S A GREAT LIFE?

I

t’s Bangkok’s most notorious bus route, earning a dubious reputation for its erratic drivers – some unlicensed – who hurtle through traffic at breakneck speeds in congested areas in defiance of the road rules.

Bus route No 8 was back in the news last month when Muean Prangprasoet, 32, an unlicensed private bus driver, crushed a 13-year-old boy motorcycle pillion passenger beneath the wheels of his vehicle on Lat Phrao Road, killing him instantly. The owners of the bus, Sap 888, defended themselves by saying the weekend driver was in the process of getting his licence, adding that it was only his second week in the job and that they were desperate to find drivers.

But long before the March 23 fatality, the No 8 route – which runs 30km from Memorial Bridge to Happy Land – had earned the ire of disgruntled and fearful commuters for the reckless behaviour of the bus drivers.

The route – which is operated by three private companies – runs via Lat Phrao Road, Phahon Yothin Road, Victory Monument, Rajavithi Hospital, Lan Luang Road and Worachak before ending at Memorial Bridge. Drivers are paid on a daily commission basis, receiving a percentage of the day’s takings instead of a fixed salary, an arrangement which encourages them to do as many runs during their shifts as possible to earn more money.

In a well-publicised media stunt, caretaker Transport Minister Chadchart Sittipunt rode a No 8 bus with reporters in tow last August after a welter of commuter complaints about the dangerous service and rickety buses.

The journey was prompted by a casual survey of 1,600

Driver Sanor Duangsamrouy and his wife/conductor Kesarin Tanwuthisut receive good feedback from regular passengers, but acknowledge that many drivers on route No 8 breach road rules in the race to get passengers. Photos: Bangkok Post/Thanarak Khonton respondents to the minister’s Facebook page which voted the bus route the city’s worst. In January, five months after Mr Chadchart’s trip, passengers told the Bangkok Post that, despite the minister’s promise to improve services on the route, they had not noticed any changes.

BEHIND THE WHEEL The bus companies estimate that more than 50,000 commuters a day use the No 8 route. One of the oldest in Bangkok, it started in 1932 as a short route from Royal Plaza to Memorial Bridge.

The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA), which grants the private concessions, and the Transport Ministry have received multiple complaints about the route in the past decade, and in 2011 the ministry threatened to remove

the private concessions after a pedestrian was killed by two buses which were racing to pick up passengers.

Sanor Duangsamrouy, 45, originally from Samut Prakan province, has been working on city buses for 20 years, the past eight driving the No 8 route.

His wife, Kesarin Tanwuthisut, 55, has spent the past seven years beside her husband on the bus as the conductor.

It’s not an easy life. They get up at 5.30am to prepare for work – usually starting at 6.30am – and return to their modest two-room flat located down a dark alley near the bus depot in Ramkhamhaeng Soi 58 near Happy Land, at about 10.30pm.

Spectrum spent a day with the couple to gain an insight into the lives of the operators and found Mr Sanor a responsible, even slow, driver of his

non-air-conditioned bus. Mr Sanor agrees that the overall image of No 8 bus drivers is bad, adding that drivers chop and change on a regular basis.

“One rotten apple doesn’t spoil the whole barrel,” he said.

“There are different drivers all the time. Most of the time the young ones aren’t patient in Bangkok traffic for too long and break the traffic laws or have a crude driving style.

Also, there is not very strict screening of recruits.”

He puts the commuter complaints and accidents down to cut-throat competition between bus companies and drivers for commuters. “The main reason there are complaints about speeding, breaking the traffic laws or poor driving habits is because drivers are racing each other to get customers. There are many buses and many private operators so they have

Mr Sanor said to make his B6,000 in takings he had to do at least four round trips a day, a total of 240km in Bangkok’s sweltering heat and congested traffic. Spectrum rode on one of the round trips from Memorial Bridge to Happy Land and back, the journey taking four hours in humid conditions and heavy traffic.

“Between both of us, we can make around B1,000 a day,” Mrs Kesarin said. “But I can’t work every day as I have high blood pressure and heart problems. My doctor says I have to rest more and reduce my working hours.”

The passengers, driver and conductors all seem to know each other well. “They are often the same people taking the same route routinely,” Mrs Kesarin said. “The comment box we have in the bus always gets ‘good’ and ‘fair’. We’ve never gotten ‘bad’.”

Passaranee, 26, is not one of the regulars. It’s her first trip with Mr Sanor as a driver and she says even though “I still feel scared, this bus driver seems to be okay”.

“I don’t often take this bus,” she said. “It may be because of the news I’ve heard about bus route No 8 that it’s more dangerous than other routes.

Also, it is not operated by BMTA, so I’m not sure how the drivers are trained.”

Ekkapoj, 30, who takes the No 8 regularly, says he occasionally comes across mad drivers who don’t obey traffic laws.

“Sometimes I get a bad bus and it’s a scary experience,” he says.

“The driver drives very fast and dangerously. However, I understand that it depends on the individual driver like other routes. There are also good drivers on this route.”

Bangkok Post

Aussie accused of paedophilia dies in jail A YEAR, ALMOST TO THE day, since he he appeared in court for the first hearing of his trial on paedophilia charges, 94-year-old Australian Karl Joseph Kraus died in jail in Chiang Mai on May 1.

Kraus was accused of raping four sisters aged between 7 and 15, and appeared in court in Chiang Mai on April 30 last year.

His lawyers, who brought him to court in a wheelchair, said that he was not in a fit condition to stand trial be-

cause he was suffering from dementia and cancer. They presented medical documents

to back up their argument.

In March last year Kraus predicted in an interview with an Australian journalist that he would be dead before the legal process was completed.

He added, “Nobody helps me. They put me in jail when I was sick. I can’t walk but they still put me in prison.”

K raus was or iginally arrested in 2010, accused of luring his victims into his house by offering them English lessons, money, and chocolate. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

IN BRIEF KANCHANABURI

Four drown in park stream

Fou r wome n t ou r ist s from Bangkok drowned while rafting in a stream at Lam Klong Ngu National Park in Si Sawat district on Sunday. Police were aler ted after the four disappeared in Lam Klong Ngu stream near a reservoir at Srinakarin Dam at about 10.30am.

Witnesses said none in the group wore life jackets.

It was believed the women were tipped from their raft and drowned in an area known to have strong currents and whirlpools.

TRAT

Ship captain kills crew, steals B5m Police are hunting the captain of an oil tanker who is suspected of killing two of his crew and stealing cargo money while transporting diesel from Malaysia to Songkhla.

The tan ker, loaded with 300,000 litres of fuel, was seized by police off the island of Koh Kood on Saturday.

@thephuketnews

THAILAND NEWS 11

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Yingluck removed by courts U

ltimately undone by Thailand’s courts, Yingluck Shinawatra laboured under claims she was a stooge for her exiled brother.

Yet the kingdom’s first female prime minister also displayed unexpected resilience during a turbulent stay in office.

Propelled to power in July 2011 by her family’s electoral base in the poor north and northeast, Yingluck was pilloried by foes as a political lightweight armed with little more than a winning smile and a hotline to her elder brother Thaksin Shinawatra, who once referred to her as his “clone”.

Thaksin, a divisive billionaire tycoon-turned premier, lives in selfimposed exile to avoid jail in Thailand for corruption convictions, and is widely believed to be the guiding force behind his sister.

He was ousted by an army coup in 2006, which opened a seemingly unbridgeable chasm between his supporters and enemies.

Yingluck’s premiership was scuttled on Wednesday by the Constitutional Court which ruled that she abused her power in transferring a top security official shortly after she came to power.

For her first two years in office, the outlook seemed very different.

The photogenic former businesswoman charmed many of her critics and, keeping a public distance from her brother, maintained the peace

Former PM Yingluck Shinawatra arriving at the Constitutional Court in Bangkok on May 6. She denied an abuse of power allegation, which saw her removed from office. Photo: AFP/Pornchai Kittiwongsakul across Thailand’s bitter political divide.

The 46-year-old reached out to the military, who after ousting Thaksin then helped unseat two subsequent pro-Shinawatra governments, and then led a deadly 2010 crackdown on her family’s “Red Shirt” supporters.

She also appeased political opponents within the Bangkok-based establishment, which loathes Thaksin and wants to curb the Shinawatras’ 13-year influence on Thai politics.

But the uneasy truce collapsed in November last year after a failed bid to pass an amnesty bill which would have enabled Thaksin’s return.

The move outraged government opponents who flooded the streets

for months of rallies, which were pock-marked by violence that left at least 25 people dead and hundreds wounded.

Although Yingluck did not campaign publicly for the amnesty, the fiasco exposed her government as “a Shinawatra family affair”, according to Paul Chambers of the Institute of South East Asian Affairs at Chiang Mai University.

Protesters demanded Yingluck resign, occupying government buildings and forcing her to conduct cabinet meetings at secret locations. But the premier dug in.

She gambled on new elections to bolster her battered administration,

although those February polls were later annulled by the courts, trapping her in a caretaker role.

Yingluck became the focus of caustic, and often explicitly sexist, tirades by protest leaders.

The mother-of-one refused to joust with her detractors and held off on a violent crackdown of the sort that quelled her brother’s supporters in 2010.

But the pressure told and on more than one occasion she was reduced to tears in public, once after her young son was harassed by anti-government supporters. “ History will give Yingluck great credit for her conduct since November,” said Michael Montesano at the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies in Singapore.

“She has scrupulously avoided the use of state violence... maintained the dignity of her office and displayed humanity rather than arrogance while under great pressure.”

Her premiership also saw an extension of the populist “Thaksinomics” of her brother favouring the rural poor, including a generous rice subsidy scheme.

The bungled rice subsidy became a lightning rod for anger among protesters and also saw her fall under the glare of anti-graft officials, who are still mulling whether to indict her for negligence, which could lead to a five-year ban from politics. AFP

12 ASIA NEWS

IN BRIEF SOUTH KOREA

Nets reinforced around ferry to stop body drift South Korean recovery workers strengthened a ring of netting Monday around a submerged ferry, in a bid to prevent corpses drifting out to open sea, as dive teams recovered 11 more bodies, raising the death toll to 259.

The latest bodies were found during a pre-dawn operation Monday, but 43 people remain unaccounted for. It has been 19 days since the 6,825-tonne Sewol capsized and sank with 476 people on board – most of them schoolchildren.

PHILIPPINES

US-Philippines launch war games Thousands of American and Philippine troops launched large annual exercises on Monday after US President Barack Obama vowed “ironclad” backing for its Asian ally, locked in a tense maritime row with China.

Filipino Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario said the 10-day drills were necessary to deal with the challenge of “aggressive” neighbours intent on “changing the status quo”.

AUSTRALIA

Claims 220 child sailors brutalised Allegations that 220 child sailors at an Australian navy training base were raped or brutalised in the 1980s are so serious they will be raised in a paper to parliament, a report said Monday. An Australian inquiry into abuse in the military has received 2,400 complaints, but the head of the investigation said claims of shocking treatment at HMAS Leeuwin in Western Australia in the 1980s warranted a separate report.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Migration steals magic from China’s mountain shamans Tom Hancock

A

Chinese shaman resplendent in a dark suit and green cloth hat thumbed yellowing pages said to predict the future – but mass migration to cities means the prospects for his own profession look bleak.

“To see a spirit, you have to practice the ancient rituals,” said Zhao Fucheng, 74, who claims he communicates with the spirit world from his wooden hut in southwestern Guangxi province.

He is one of the estimated thousands of shamans – locally known as “spirit masters” – who are called on as healers in a centuries-old tradition among ethnic groups in the region.

“If something bad is going to happen to you soon, and your luck is running out, I can change your luck,” Zhao said, who belongs to the Yao ethnic minority.

“If medicine doesn’t work, then you need to ask a spirit.”

Zhao – who lives in the remote village of Qiuka, accessible by a dirt track which rises high over mountains patterned with rice fields – receives a steady stream of villagers who profess to believe in spirits.

“Sometimes if you go to the hos-

Shaman Zhao Fucheng thumbs through an ancient text said to predict the future at his Qiuka village home in Guangxi. Photo: AFP/Mark Ralston pital and see a doctor and it doesn’t work, you need to look for a spirit master,” said 38-year-old farmer Zhao Jintai, who like many in the village are surnamed Zhao but not related to the shaman.

“Spirits will make you ill, but they won’t eat you or anything like that,” offered Zhao Deqing, 13.

He admires the motorbikes that older peers drive back from their jobs in nearby towns, and plans to leave

the village as soon as school finishes.

When he does, Zhao will join the largest migration in human history – which has seen more than 300 million Chinese people move to cities over the last 15 years – and leave the elderly shaman behind.

The shaman Zhao says he specialises in healing and telling fortunes.

“I do some communicating with ghosts, beating drums and blowing cow horns – I can do the little things,”

he said.

On a spring morning he agreed to make predictions for a visitor.

Armed with the client’s date of birth and wearing reading glasses, he scrutinised a lunar calendar printed in red ink.

Mouthing a series of calculations, he reached for a book he says is hundreds of years old, its crumbling pages lined with Chinese characters.

“When you reach 39, things won’t go smoothly for you,” he declared, as his increasingly red-faced client nodded.

The shaman pointed his dirt-caked fingernails at the characters, reading aloud and adding: “It’s nothing to be scared about”.

The Cultural Revolution, a decade of political upheaval launched in 1966

by China’s then-leader Mao Zedong, saw violent campaigns against “superstitious” practices in which spirit masters were beaten and abused.

Shamans in Qiuka said they hid their books during the turmoil, retrieving them only when campaigns relaxed in the 1980s.

Demand for their services surged in the following decades as market reforms undermined China’s public healthcare system and medical costs skyrocketed. AFP

Overseas Indians travel home to support Modi ADAPA V. PR ASAD, A 60-year-old entrepreneur from Washington DC, has been risking Maoist violence in central India for the sake of the man he wants to see become the next prime minister, Narendra Modi.

Travelling door-to-door in tribal areas of Chhattisgarh state, a hotbed of left-wing extremism, he has been asking people to vote for the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

“India is going down the drain under the present Con-

gress government. I cannot see that happen,” said Prasad, an American of Indian origin who left his homeland 25 years ago and has spent about US$2,000 (B65,000) to travel back for polling.

Echoing others who are fired up by Modi’s strident nationalism and development agenda, he sees the controversial 63-year-old as a means to create pride in the poverty-wracked country.

“The impetus to come here (India) is to bring Modi as the prime minister. We don’t want

our country to be seen as a weak country,” said Prasad, who spent his younger days in Chhattisgarh but has never campaigned there before.

He serves as a vice-president with the international network of the Hindu nationalist party, Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) in the United States.

A Delhi-based BJP leader coordinating international outreach efforts estimated that more than 4,000 non-resident Indians from over 30 countries have travelled to India to work for the party since January.

“I received calls from many young people living abroad,” said Vijay Jolly, global convenor for BJP’s overseas affairs.

“I have not seen such a phenomenon before,” said Jolly, a former legislator who has been with the party for more than three decades.

He explained that despite living abroad, overseas Indians yearned for progress in their motherland after allegations of corruption and weak leadership marred Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s two terms in office.

The high-octane social media campaign of the BJP

An supporter dressed as Lord Shiva listens as Modi addresses an election rally. Photo: AFP/Debu Chakraborty coupled with regular online interactions with its overseas members and the charisma of Modi has drawn these supporters to India, Jolly said.

As well as organising events locally in their home countries, returning BJP supporters have helped with a formidable grassroots campaign by the party, which can also count on right-wing Hindu groups to provide volunteers.

By contrast, at the headquarters of the Congress party in New Delhi, members were reluctant to share any details of help from the diaspora.

Emails to different chapters of the party’s international arm, Indian National Overseas Congress (INOC), yielded just one response.

“Unfortunately the person appointed by AICC (All India Congress Committee) to head INOC has totally failed in organising support for the party in US at this critical election,” read the email from an anonymous party member.

“We are all disappointed!

This is the problem with our party leaders and they are out of touch with the grassroots!” it added. AFP thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

WORLD NEWS 13

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

S. Africa’s ‘Teflon’ President Lawrence Bartlett

C

Charismatic but scandal-prone, South Africa’s leader Jacob Zuma is a former herdboy who could stake a claim to Ronald Reagan’s title of “Teflon president” as he anticipates his re-election this week.

The late US president earned the sobriquet Teflon – ‘nothing sticks’ – for surviving a series of scandals with his popularity intact, and 72-year-old Zuma has done much the same through a very different set of imbroglios.

A past freedom fighter, Zuma has kept his political career alive despite a trial on charges of raping a family friend as well as allegations of corruption, abuse of power and misusing US$23 million (B744 million) of state funds to refurbish his private residence.

As leader of Mandela’s African National Congress (ANC), which has won every general election by huge margins since South Africa become a democracy in 1994, Zuma is virtually a shoo-in for a second five-year term.

The son of a domestic worker, Zuma has “a very

A supporter of South Africa’s ruling African National Congress party wearing a t-shirt with the picture of President Jacob Zuma dances during the final ANC election campaign rally at Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg on May 4. Photo: AFP/Gianluigi Guercia strong appeal” to the working class and the poor, says Sdumo Dhlamini, head of the Confederation of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu), an ANC ally.

Born on April 12, 1942, in the rural outpost of Nkandla in the north of the coastal province of KwaZulu-Natal, Zuma has had a meteoric rise in politics marked by controversy.

Popularly referred to as “JZ”, he enjoys loyalty from millions of ANC grassroots

supporters awed by his journey from uneducated cattle herder to president, with a 10-year stint as an apartheid-era political prisoner along the way.

When he took the reins of the ANC in 2007 in a putsch against ex-president Thabo Mbeki, Zuma inherited a party riddled with divisions that had festered under Mbeki, who was accused of being out of touch with the masses.

But divisions have deepened as poverty and unem-

Arrest ‘sends wrong signal’ for N. Ireland peace process, says Adams IRISH REPUBLICAN LEADer Gerry Adams on Sunday criticised the Northern Ireland police’s handling of his arrest over a notorious IRA murder, saying it sent a wrong signal for the peace process to which he remains “totally committed”.

“Those that authorised this (arrest) didn’t make the right strategic decision,” Adams said at a press conference in Belfast’s Balmoral Hotel.

“This is entirely a wrong signal”.

Adams, a key figure in the peace process, was arrested on Wednesday in connection with the death of Jean McConville, a mother-of-ten abducted from her home in 1972.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) freed Adams at around 5:30 pm after four days of questioning.

The republican leader could still face charges when a file is sent to prosecutors, and the Times on Monday reported police had recommended prosecution.

The Sinn Fein president claimed that much of the evidence presented to him @thephuketnews

Gerry Adams. during 33 taped interviews came from newspaper articles, books and photos, and that the allegations against him were part of a “sustained, malicious, untruthful and sinister campaign”.

He suggested that the timing of his four-day detention was politically motivated with European elections due to be held later this month.

“I make the case that those who authorised my arrest and detention could have done it differently, “ he said, flanked

by Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, the

top Sinn Fein member in the power-sharing government.

“They did not have to do this in the middle of an election campaign.”

Adams explained that he voluntarily contacted police two months ago after newspaper reports linked him to the murder.

He also repeated his commitment to the US-backed Good Friday accords in 1998 that largely ended three decades of sectarian violence, and pledged his support for the PSNI despite earlier suggestions from Sinn Fein that the arrest could force a review of its policy.

“There can be no going back,” he insisted. “We are totally and absolutely committed to the peace process.

“I want to make it clear that I support the PSNI, I will continue to work with others to build a genuinely civic police service.

“The old guard which is against change, whether in the PSNI leadership, within elements of unionism or the far fringes of self-proclaimed but pseudo republicanism, they can’t win,” he added. AFP

ployment levels continue to blight the country 20 years after the end of apartheid’s white-minority rule, and the ANC has been accused of losing its moral compass.

A group of former ANC stalwarts led by ex- intelligence minister Ronnie Kasrils, who has strong anti-apartheid “struggle credentials”, has called for voters to choose one of the smaller opposition parties or spoil their ballots in protest against what they see

as a betrayal of the ANC’s principles.

But Zuma has shrugged off the protests, going so far as to mock the opposition for its insistence that he be held to account for spending millions of dollars of taxpayers’ money on his home in Nkandla.

“They are parties of legal technicalities... They only speak about two things when you count them. Corruption and Nkandla,” a jovial Zuma told supporters last week – to cheers and laughter.

Zuma’s private life is as colourful as his political career.

An unashamed traditionalist, he often swaps his suits for full leopard-pelt Zulu warrior gear, engaging in energetic ground-stomping tribal dances during traditional ceremonies in his village.

At ANC rallies, he is often the first to break into song, leading supporters in the rousing anti-apartheid struggle song “Umshini Wami” (Bring Me My Machine Gun), which has become his signature tune.

The teetotaller and nonsmoker has four wives and 21 children, making Zuma the only president in subSaharan Africa who is an open polygamist. AFP

IN BRIEF NEW ZEALAND

Son of Maori king arrested on burglary charges The son of New Zealand’s Maori king appeared in court on Monday charged with burglary and stealing surf boards in a Nor th Island town, prompting a rare public rebuke from the indigenous figurehead.

BRAZIL

Sao Paulo gay pride parade calls for equal rights Revellers thronged central Sao Paulo for the city’s annual gay pride parade Sunday as they pushed calls for legislation criminalising homophobic behaviour.

The march drew tens of thousands of people from across society. President Dilma Rousseff gave a message of support via Twit ter. “People f rom around the country are in Sao Paulo today to participate in #paradalgbt,” Rousseff tweeted, reminding her followers there is a hotline people can call in Brazil if they are attacked because of their sexuality.

14 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

FIRING EMPLOYEES It’s not as simple as you might think Tippaya Moonmanee Duensing Kippen

O

ccasionally an employer-employee relationship does not work out. In fact, sometimes the relationship deteriorates to such a degree that one or both of the parties wants to end it immediately.

For the employee this is generally simple. Unless the employment contract contains a provision that affects the employee’s resignation, he or she may simply quit by giving notice of at least one full wage payment cycle.

However, for the employer, firing an employee is not so simple.

The Labour Protection Act of 1998 (LPA) was largely enacted to protect employees who, its drafters assumed, are generally in a less powerful position than their employer and, therefore, in need of more protection.

However, the LPA does allow an employer to fire an employee immediately for “cause” which the LPA defines as follows: the employee has worked dishonestly or intentionally committed a criminal offence against the employer; the employee intentionally caused damage to the employer; the employee committed a negligent act that caused serious damage to the employer; the employee violated the employer’s work rules, regulations or any lawful and fair order of the employer, and the employer had given the employee a written warning about the same violation within the previous twelve months. (Note however, where the violation is particularly egregious, the employer is not required to give a warning); the employee was absent from work, without justifiable cause, for at least three consecutive working days; or the employee was sentenced to imprisonment by a

You may not like your employee very much but be careful how you go about getting rid of him or her. Photo: 4Johnny5 final court judgment. However, if the imprisonment is for an offense of mere negligence or a petty offense, that offense must have caused damage to the employer for this reason to qualify.

It is very important to note that if the employer does terminate an employee for such “cause” the employer must also notify the employee of the reason for termination at that time. If not, the employer will not be permitted to claim that the termination was for “cause” and the termination will be treated as if it were without cause.

If an employer fires an employee for any other reason than “cause”, he or she may be held liable for any one or more of the following:

Payment in lieu of notice Section 582 of the Civil and Commercial Code of Thai-

land, requires a party to an employment agreement to give the other party notice of termination of the employment at least one full wage payment cycle before such termination is to take effect.

However, notice need not be given more than three months prior to the termination becoming effective (where, for example, a wage cycle was longer than three months).

For example, if an employee is paid at the end of every month, and it is now March 12, the employer cannot terminate the employee at the end of March because that would not be one full wage cycle. The earliest date would be April 30 – even if the employer gives the employee notice on March 12.

Note that the employer can wait until March 31 before giving notice of termination effective April 30, without being liable. If however, in

our example, the employer did give notice on March 12 of termination on March 31, he or she would then be liable to pay a full month because the employee should have been allowed to work until the end of April.

Severance Pay Section 118 of the LPA stipulates that if an employer terminates an employee without “cause”, the employer may be held liable to the pay severance to the employee in the following amounts depending on the duration of employment.

Between 120 and 365 days, 30 days’ pay; between 1 and 3 years, 90 days’ pay; between 3 and 6 years, 180 days’ pay; between six and 10 years, 240 days’ pay; more than 10 years, 300 days’ pay.

Unfair Dismissal Compensation. If the termination of employment is found

to be “unfair” under Section 49 of the Establishment of Labor Court Procedure Act of 1979 (LCP) the court may also require the employer to pay additional compensation to the employee.

The Act does not explicitly define what the term “unfair” means. However, the following summaries of actual labor court rulings provide some guidance as to when such unfair is and is not likely to be found: An employer’s termination of an employee was found to be unfair, where: an employee’s husband was working for a competing company; an employee worked as a technician in a field that required a legal license but the employer discovered that the employee’s license had expired and terminated the employee.

Many of the employee’s coworker technician’s licenses had also expired, but they were

not terminated because of that; an employer’s annual profit decreased compared with previous years but the company remained profitable. However, in response, the employer terminated an employee; an employee was gambling outside of working hours, and the applicable employer work regulations stated that the punishment for such conduct would be a financial penalty, but instead the employer terminated the employee.

An employee’s termination of an employee was found to be fair, where: an employee’s performance was not sufficient during the probation period; an employee was terminated in line with the employer’s work regulations retirement conditions; and an employer’s business was unprofitable for successive years and the employer had taken several steps to alleviate the cost of employing the employee (offering a voluntary resignation option, for example) but the employer eventually was forced to terminate the employee, who did not agree to resign, in order to save the business as a whole.

Duensing Kippen is a multiservice boutique domestic and cross-border law firm specializing in real estate, construction, hospitality and corporate/commercial transactional matters as well as dispute resolution through negotiated settlement, arbitration and litigation proceedings. It is also the only firm in Thailand whose attorneys include three internationally licensed arbitrators/Members of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (MCIArb). Duensing Kippen is also the only firm in Thailand that compliments real estate, construction, hospitality, and corporate/commercial legal expertise with a core tax law practice. Duensing Kippen can be reached at: phuket@duensingkippen.com or for more information visit duensingkippen.com

THAI offers 15pc off for young and old on domestic routes THAI AIRWAYS INTERNATIONal (THAI) is offering special fares – about 15 per cent off – for older people and for young people on selected domestic routes throughout the remainder of the year.

The airline is battling shrinking ticket sales and revenues, lost to the power of low-cost carriers such as Nok

Air, Thai AirAsia and Thai Lion Air. The special fares applies to passengers over 60 years of age, or between 12 and 24 years of age.

The promotion, excluding airport taxes and surcharges, sells a one-way fare departing Bangkok to Chiang Mai at B2,530 Mondays to Thursdays and B2,725 from Friday to Sunday.

To Chiang Rai, the one-way fares sell at B2,965 on weekdays and B3,195 on weekends.

Other fares on weekdays and weekends: B2,240/B2,410 Khon Kaen; B2,920/B3,145 Krabi; B3,040/ B3,275 Phuket; B3,355/B3,610 Haad Yai and B4,135/B4,455 Samui.

The promotion also sells round-

trip Bangkok-Chiang Mai fares at B5,060/B5,450, while a round-trip Bangkok-Chiang Rai fare costs B5,930/B6,390.

Other round-trip fares on weekdays and weekends: B4,480/B4,820 to Khon Kaen; B5,840/B6,290 Krabi; B6,080/B6,550 Phuket; B6,710/ B7,220 to Haad Yai; and B8,270/

B8,910 Samui.

Fares are the same as those offered to senior citizens, 60 years or over, a discount that was announced earlier in the week.

Passengers can book the fares for travel until December 31. The maximum stay is 90 days.

TTR Weekly thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Property agents’ club looks for Phuket members Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

T

he Bangkok-based Thai Real Estate Broker Association (TREBA) was in Phuket last Monday (May 5) to begin a drive to recruit local brokers in an effort to “unite all Thai brokers” and build up the credibility of the industry.

Thamrong Tantiwirachakul, President of TREBA, told a press conference: “Now, Phuket is a popular city and lots of tourist come here. The tourism economy grew by 14.73 per cent last year. This has a knock-on effect for the property industry, too.

“TREBA’s main purpose is to provide training classes for property brokers, regular meetings to exchange information on different markets, to create a database of up-to-date marketing information, to give advice on property techniques and to support interpretations of the law that will make things

Thamrong Tantiwirachakul, President of TREBA. easier for Thai brokers.”

Paithanan Chaiyachet, Secretary of the TREBA said, “Currently we have about 50 members. All must register and follow the TREBA rules.

Anyone who wants to join must undergo training and pass an examnination.

“Class will highlight ethics and test brokers for them.

We will also teach ways to resolve conflicts that often arise between brokers and buyer.”

Asked about the current

state of the market, Mr Paithanan said, “We know the market is not growing now and there are about 3,500 unsold homes in Phuket.

“We will cooperate with the Phuket Real Estate Association (PREA) to gather and disseminate information; we will not profit from this. We believe that our credibility will help sales in Phuket to increase.

“There are 500 to 700 brokers in Phuket who are not registered with us. We will keep record on all brokers – members and otherwise – so that buyers can check their profiles.”

He added that a “real estate training school” will be conducted on May 16 at the Merlin Hotel in Phuket Town

by AAA Exhibition & Training Co. Another session on May 24 and 25 at the A2 Resort on the bypass road will cover sales techniques.

For more information email info@aaaexhibition.com or call 081-4151777.

Malaysia opens dedicated airport for low-cost airlines MALAYSIA LAST FRIDAY (May 2) opened what it calls the world’s largest airport built specifically for low-cost airlines, a project driven by budget travel’s phenomenal growth.

The US$1.2 billion (B33.6 billion) facility near the main Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) was originally targeted to open three years ago but has been hit by repeated delays, amid concerns over safety and subpar construction.

Costs have also doubled.

The KLIA2 budget terminal began operations with an initial 56 flights a day, increasing the load as airlines moved full operations from a nearby facility earlier in the week.

The old low-cost terminal, known as the LCCT, was a cramped, bare-bones facility resembling a bus station.

Capacity was 15 million passengers, but about 22 million passengers boarded flights at the old terminal last year.

The gleaming KLIA2, however, covers an area equal to 24 football fields, about four times the size.

Malaysia-based Malindo Air, the Philippines’ Cebu Pacific Air, Singapore’s Tiger Airways, and Indonesia’s Lion @thephuketnews

BUSINESS NEWS 15

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

The new KLIA2 terminal has the capacity to handle 45 million passengers a year. Some 24 million are expected to go through it in the first year. Photo: Wikipedia/Craig Air and Mandala Airlines began initial operations there last Friday.

Regional low-cost leader AirAsia is to join them by today (May 9), when the old terminal is due to close.

The airline’s boss, Tony Fernandez, has in the past been highly critical of the new KLIA2, saying that it did not have to be a “glamorous home”

and threatening at one point to almost boycott the facility because it was “flawed”.

He is also pushing very hard for the government to keep the Passenger Service Charge (PSC) – the airport tax – at the same level for years to come.

The government, however, has promised to keep the PSC at the same level only until the end of this year.

Nai Harn Beach Condominium going according to the plan SPONSORED CONSTRUCTION OF NAI Harn Beach Condominium is going according to plan.

The structure of the first of the two buildings is already complete and is now being fitted out. The second building is also in progress: the basement and ground floor are finished and the whole building will be ready in July.

The developers of the project say this is exactly the phase they have been planning. A series of factors might have influenced the tempo, but the firm managed to prevent any delays.

Nai Harn Beach Condominium is scheduled to be finished and ready to accommodate residents by the end of the year. The official opening of the complex is scheduled to take place between December 30 this year and January 30, 2015.

Nai Harn Beach Condominium is located in an ecologically clean, green zone within walking distance of Nai Harn Beach, the third most popular beach in Southeast Asia.

The complex consists of two seven-storey buildings with a total of 50 apartments.

Some are still available for purchase, in particular several units on the top floors that offer stunning sea views.

Units located on the 5th, 6th and 7th floors offer sea views, while the lower floors face the mountains.

The apartments are available at prices ranging from B2.99 to B15 million. Buyers can choose between a 45sqm one-bedroom unit or two types of two-bedroom units, one covering 76 sqm and the other115 sqm.

In two-bedroom units design, one of the bedrooms is designed to be a children’s room with window locks and other child-friendly attributes.

Furniture packages are available at B400,000 for the studios and B500,000 for the two-bedroom units.

Common facilities include a big Desjoyaux Pool with a special children’s zone, a club house, café, children’s playground, car parking and laundry, while 24 hour security will guarantee safety of the residents and their guest.

According to the developer’s estimates, by the time the project is finished the prices will be 25 to 30 per cent higher than now – they are increasing at 5 per cent a month – though for now the most affordable unit in Nai Harn Beach Condominium is still priced at B2.99 million.

16 WEIRD NEWS

THE BIG LIST The great escapes In order to prevent being eaten by hungry predators, these animals have come up with truly ingenious abilities

Boom boom As a last ditch measure, the Camponotus Saundersi – better known as the blast ant – will literally explode to prevent itself being eaten. The suicidal Malaysian ant has two large mandibular glands that are filled with poison and are as large as its body. Once it feels threatened with death, the ant will contract its abdominal muscles, causing the glands that hold the poison to explode and spray the venom all over its predator. While the ant dies, so too does its opponent.

This is the kamikaze pilot of insects.

Up in the air The exocoetidae are a type of fish that fly out of the ocean to escape their predators. These fish can glide for a remarkable 200 m once out of the water. This speedy fish flies inside the water also, swimming at speeds up to 60kph.

Its fins have evolved to the point where they can be used as large wings once airborne. In order to glide, the fish uses its tail fin as a propeller, dancing on top of the water for long distances. Observers in Japan saw one fish glide for a record 45 seconds in 2008.

Beetle bum One of the toughest insects is the Colorado Potato Beetle, so-called because it was first discovered in that US state and is destructive to potato crops. It became resistant to the normally fatal insecticide DDT in the 1950s but its truly fascinating defense mechanism involves its own faeces. To avoid being eaten by larger bugs, this insect covers itself in its own poisonous dung. This stinky defense is called the ‘fecal shield’, since the poisonous dung seeps out over its back and hardens into a shell over time.

Guts and glory The sea cucumber normally lurks quietly at the bottom of the ocean and eats all the small organisms it can find. But at the first sign of trouble, this otherwise unremarkable creature violently squeezes out its own guts. The sticky intestines of the sea cucumber come out of its own anus and become a distraction for predators, allowing it to escape. Not all species of sea cucumbers have poisonous intestines, but the ones that do have a toxic chemical known as holothurin, which can kill animals in the vicinity.

Playing possum Sometimes playing dead is the best defense. Just ask the possum, which is famous for its strategy of not doing anything in the face of danger. But that’s not entirely true.

The possum actually falls into a comatose state under intense fear and can lie still for hours on end, even with its eyes open. This fear also triggers a smell to emit from the possum, making predators wary of coming into contact with a potentially poisonous animal. .

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Taco style placenta eaten by new father

S

ome people put beef or chicken in their taco, Nick Baines took it several steps further.

The new father walked out of the hospital along with his wife and newborn son, and a takeaway bag of her placenta.

When Baines, a British journalist, asked the doctor who performed his wife’s C-section for the discharge, the surgeon had apparently asked, “How are you going to cook it... with spices?” Placentophagy (the act of eating placenta, or afterbirth) has been generating lots of buzz in recent years. Even actress January Jones admitted to having taken placenta pills after the birth of her son.

The placenta is said to be packed with iron, vitamins B6 and B12, giving ‘diners’ more energy and supposedly helps combat postpartum depression, though scientific evidence has yet to corroborate this.

With so many recipes on how to prepare placenta for consumption, Baines said he decided to try it in a smoothie with bananas and coconut water. The taste, he said, had a metallic bloody aftertaste and ‘looked rank’.

Finally, the Brit found a different method: cook it up and place it in a taco.

“It was tender, kind of like brisket and not dissimilar to Texas BBQ,” he told reporters.

Nick Baines tastes his bloody taco for the first time.

Fears of exploding whale in Canada Tourist A GIANT BLUE WHALE that washed up on the shores of a small fishing village on the Canadian island province of Newfoundland might explode.

T he ma m mal, wh ich weighs 180 tonnes and is 25m long, is believed to have died in heavy ice not far from the island just weeks ago.

But residents of this community, a population of 600, have come out in droves to see the carcass, which has

become bloated to more than twice its normal girth.

“It’s sitting on our beach and filling up with (methane) gases, and there is a concern that it can explode,” said town manager Emily Butler.

“I’m told that it could only

explode if the carcass is punctured or cut,” she said.

“Safety is one issue that we’re concerned with, but whether it explodes or don’t, as our temperatures warm up there’s going to be an awful smell from this animal as it decays.”

Agencies at the provincial and federal level have said they will not get involved, reasoning that it should be left to decompose.

Topless bee dance attracts buzz A 44-YEAR-OLD WOMAN created a buzz online when she uploaded a video of herself dancing topless while covered with 12,000 bees.

Sara Mapelli – a beekeeper based in Portland, Oregon – used special pheromone oil to attract the bees, a treatment that she says is equivalent to the scent of 100 queen bees.

“These 12,000 bees push with their powerful wings from each side of my body, I resist and then I let go and

flow and move with them,” Mapelli wrote on her website.

“It is a deep mediation and I feel the hive mind surround me, hold me, and expand my body on a cellular level.”

This is not Mapelli’s first time performing the stunt, she tried it for the first time in 2001 and has since been stung over 100 times though she says it does not bother her.

“I just want people to understand that they don’t need to fear nature,” she said.

Hamster-sized deer born in Spain THE LATEST SPECIMEN OF THE WORLD’S tiniest deer – a rare species no bigger than a hamster – has been born in a nature park in southern Spain, conservationists said last week.

The baby “deer-mouse” became just the 43rd living member of this species in Europe when it was born on April 9 in the Fuengirola Biopark near Malaga.

Originating in southeast Asia, the deer is so called because its tiny dimensions and big eyes make it look more like a rodent, despite its tiny hooves.

At birth the baby – which has not yet been named because it is still too small to determine its sex – weighed about 100 grams (nearly four

ounces). The deer-mouse typically grows to about the size of a rabbit and weighs about a kilo when fully grown.

“It is doing very well, in its enclosure, although it cannot suckle yet and cannot feed by itself.” AFP

mistakes Gere for beggar, gives him pizza pie

A FRENCH TOURIST listened to her heart when she offered her pizza to a man spotted rummaging through trash in the streets of New York, not realizing it was Richard Gere making a movie.

Karine Valnais Gombeau, a 42-year-old Parisian, spotted the actor, a knit cap pulled down over his ears, sifting through rubbish as she came out of a pizzeria near Grand Central station in Manhattan, with her husband and teenage son, reports said.

Without blinking, Gere, 64 asked her what was in the bag Gombeau offered him.

“I tried to tell him in English, but it came out half in French,” she told reporters.

“He said, ‘Thank you so much. God bless you,’” she said.

She left without knowing it was Gere making his new movie Time Out of Mind, until a local newspaper ran a photo of the moment two days later.

“It was magical ... It’s crazy, this story. It’s unimaginable that something like this could happen,” she said. AFP thephuketnews

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

SHARK ALERT!

PIADS presents student projects

06

Sash PS goes full Magnum for Style

South African swimmer attempts record swim to raise awareness of shark finning > page 3

@thephuketnews

10

Pattaya Beach. Photo: Prachanart Viriyaraks

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

2 COMMUNITY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Taking the goat P

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Befriend an organic farmer

P

huket is famous the world over for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque coastlines, pristine rainforests and its eclectic culinary and night life offerings. But greatly overshadowed by the core industries is a budding agricultural sector set to be the next big thing... goats.

Some 453 rai (about 72.5 hectares) of the island’s 543 square kilometres are currently dedicated to raising cattle, buffalo, swine, poultry and increasingly, goats.

For more than a decade now, goat breeders in Thalang have been diligently domesticating a unique breed of goat which they now say produces “the best goat milk in all of Thailand.”

And they’re ready to celebrate this esteemed claim, or at least promote it, at the 11th annual National Goat Fair, which will be held May 23-25 in the large field behind the Tesco Lotus in Cherng Thalay.

The 11th annual National Goat Fair will feature: • Pageants and contests for the best goat milk and goat meat • Competitions for the best goat dishes, goat races, fancy goat

Photo: Olaf Gradin Did you know that as of 2012, there were more than a half a million domesticated goats in Thailand, more than half of which are in Southern Thailand. In Phuket, there are roughly 50 goat farms with just over 1,600 goats. For now, at least...

pageant, drawing and colouring contests • Demonstrations and exhibitions related to goat breeding, feed, herbs, disease prevention and more • A special seminar for existing goat farmers and those interested in the prospect

• Medical check services for goats and other types of animals • Booths selling goats and goat related products.

For more information about goat breeding in the kingdom, contact the Goat and Sheep Association of Thailand via thaigoatsheep. com (Thai language).

ook Pinto Kao is a non-profit group that acts as a matchmaker, connecting city dwellers with organic rice farmers.

They will recommend a suitable farmer for you and tell you his/her asking price. Then you can contact the farmer directly before deciding to buy rice from him/her for at least 12 months.

You’ll know in advance how much you have to pay and you pay directly to the farmer. Both buyers and farmers will receive better deals since there’s no middleman between them.

T he g r oup’s g oa l s include increasing the number of organic rice growers and eaters in T h a i l a nd a s wel l a s building friendship and understanding between them. This way, they help improve the quality of life for both farmers and buyers alike.

Those who eat chemical-free rice enjoy better health while far mers can earn extra income and grow their rice with less impact on the environment. Moreover, organic farmers don’t use

Photo: Takeaway chemicals so they don’t have to risk their health while growing food for the country. Bangkok Post

HOW YOU CAN HELP Fill in an application form located at facebook.com/ pookpintokao. You can sign up for rice as an individual, group or company and indicate how many kilos of rice you want per month.

You can choose to subscribe to farmers who already utilise organic farming or those who are in transition to adopt organic farming.

You can even visit the farmer whose rice you bought. It’s cool to tell people you have a farmer friend.

Quick as a flash

Kerrily Jennings info@oasisedphuket.com

I

n a world that is quite often set to auto, we’d like to put you back into the control seat when it comes to using your camera flash.

It’s an area that many shy away from, fearful that it’s too technical, a murky swamp of settings and concepts, but in fact correct flash use can actu-

ally be quite simple.

With a bit of knowledge and practise, it’s possible to soon have the f lash working the way it was designed for, creating properly exposed and fabulous images.

And did you know, that f lash is not just used in the dark? Fill flash is the photographer’s best friend for lighting up shadowed faces and making the images really pop.

With Oasis ed. Phuket’s

Flash Photography Workshop (Saturday, May 17), you’ll learn about this plus a multitude of other flash facts and essentials.

Whether it’s for your work, your family or your Social Media Marketing, learning how to get the most out of your camera and flash is a skill you’ll value forever.

For more information please contact K errily on 084-946-2171 or visit oasisedphuket.com thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

COMMUNITY 3

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Swimming for sharks Claire Connell editor1@classactmedia.co.th

I have been living in South Korea for more than three years now. Shark fin soup is still served at important family functions and occasions.

Through this swim I have managed to educate people about the cruelty of shark finning

Clockwise from above: Gene shows off one of her many medals, swimming in the ocean, with fellow open water swimmers Ayesha and Wilco. @thephuketnews

S

outh African woman Gene Giraudeau will soon arrive in Thailand to complete a 43km sea swim from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao to raise money to support shark-finning awareness.

Gene, who works as a teacher in South Korea, will arrive in Thailand on May 17 for three weeks and will attempt the marathon swim when the weather is at its best.

“This will be a solo swim and if I can do it, I would be the first person to swim between these two islands.

The swim would last about 16 hours if everything goes to plan.”

A former resident of Koh Tao and a keen swimmer, Gene swam the 23km around Koh Tao in 2012 – her first long distance swim.

“I decided to try long distance swimming in Thailand because the water temperature is perfect. I don’t do very well in cold water, and swimming in Thailand lets me try swim these crazy distances with awesome warm water.”

Gene admits many people think she’s “crazy” for taking on such a task, but she’s doing it for a serious cause she really believes in – to raise awareness about shark finning.

“Swimming for 16-plus hours is not something everyone would enjoy. I like having a personal challenge and it’s great to see what amazing things you can achieve if you put your mind to it. Even though people think the swim is crazy they do understand that the reason for doing it is important.

“I have been living in South Korea for more than three years now. Shark fin soup is still served at important family functions and occasions. Through this swim I have managed to educate people about the cruelty of shark finning. Most Koreans are oblivious to the decreasing shark populations and the impact it can have on our ecosystems.

“Along with Master Divers Koh Tao and Project Aware and their finathon campaign I am swimming to stop finning.

“Shark finning is the act where people catch sharks, cut off their fins and throw their bodies back in the ocean where they are left to drown. As a result of shark finning all over the world, tens of millions of sharks die in this inhumane way.

Gene explains that shark fins are being harvested in ever greater numbers to feed the growing demand for shark fin soup, an Asian delicacy. Through Project Aware, swimmers and divers all over the world are swimming and gathering sponsorship and donations to help raise awareness, she says.

For the swim to stick to the open water rules, Gene is not allowed to touch the support boat at any time during the swim. She also cannot use any swimming aids or flotation devices – including a wetsuit.

During the swim her food and drink plan will include carbohydrate drinks, coconut water and energy gels. Chocolate helps with the salty mouth Gene gets from the seawater.

“I decided to try this swim the day after I finished swimming the 23km around Koh Tao, so I have been preparing for this swim since then.

“I have competed in some open water swimming races in South Korea where I placed either first or second. I usually train five to six times a week, 3-5km

swims on the weekdays and then 3-6 hour swims on the weekend.”

As for anything she’s worried about, Gene says she’s a bit concerned about swimming at night because of the dark.

“I am also pretty scared of the jellyfish.

“I hope to get this swim officially recognised by the international marathon swimming association. Other than that it is just a personal goal for me and a chance to raise some money and awareness for a cause very close to my heart.”

For more details and to keep up-todate with Gene’s swim, visit facebook. com/MasterDivers or visit finathon. org/masterdivers and click on the big orange ‘donate’ button.

4 ART

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Strokes of a colourful future Steven Layne editor3@classactmedia.co.th

Thaworn “Yai” Merurut, joining BISP’s Artist in Residence programme for his second time, instructs Year 9 students watercolour painting techniques.

S

ome 60 students from the British International School, Phuket (BISP), aged 9 to 17, last week had an enriching opportunity to be immersed in everything art as part of the school’s “Artist In Residence” programme.

For the fourth edition of the annual course, the school welcomed two renowned, professional artists – Elsie Evans from Scotland and Thaworn “Yai” Merurut, a native of southern Thailand – to provide intimate coaching, guidance and instruction to students on campus, as well as elsewhere on the island.

BISP’s Art Coordinator Claire Lester explained that the purpose of the programme is to expose stu-

dents to practising artists, giving them space and time to work without the pressures of everyday school life.

“Artist residencies are important because they provide opportunities for students to spend time in a new atmosphere and environment. They support cultural and artistic exchange, nurture experimentation and new ideas, and support research and the development of new work,” she explained.

Claire pointed out that there are so many talented artists in Thailand and the programme has proved to be an effective vehicle of exposure for all students – those who already have an acknowledged passion as well as those who may be undecided or unaware of their liking for art.

In one phase of the programme, Elsie, a Scottish painter who has lived and worked in Bangkok for 20 years where she runs Attic Studios, worked with Year 10 and 12 students on a three-day residential trip to the culturally colourful Phuket Town, where she and the students stayed at The Memory at On On hotel.

Aside from visiting the Trick Eye Museum, students toured and observed many of the famous and ordinary Old Town scenes, from the perspective of an artist whose aim was to emulate and depict such scenes with nothing more than a pad, pencil and paintbrush.

In the second part of the pro-

gramme, local artist Yai – a watercolour, acrylic and oil painter originally from Nakhon Sri Thammarat and based in Phuket for the last two decades – worked with the Year 5, 9, 10 and 12 students, teaching foundational and advanced courses in water colours.

“These kids are lucky to get in depth exposure to watercolours at a younger age. Most Thai artists usually don’t get to learn this much until they’re in university,” he said.

Yai, 44, who runs the Art Room Studio in Phuket Town, told The Phuket News that he was excited to return to BISP to join in this programme for the second time.

“International students are so much fun to work with... They have confidence, are more daring and not as afraid to make mistakes [as students in Thai schools]. This is reflected in their artwork, which three times out of four will turn out to be a good result.”

Prior to opening his studio, Yai used to make ends meet as an aspiring “artist for hire” mostly doing design and painting jobs for hotels, but says business has improved dramatically since opening his gallery in early 2005.

Indeed, a greater appreciation for art is growing in Phuket, and programmes like BISP’s Artist In Residence will ensure that promising talent and passion is not left untapped – instead rightfully fostered and developed for a colourful future.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

IN BRIEF

HEALTH 5

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Diet, lifestyle key to good health ‘Don’t dig your grave with your own knife and fork’ – English proverb

Photo: M21Cestda

Public Health Minister: Don’t skip breakfast

A survey of 26,520 households by the National Statistics Office of Thailand has revealed that 93 per cent of young children aged 6-14 have a proper three meals a day while only 87 per cent of youth and young adults, aged 15-24 do.

Reasons cited for skipping breakfast were the rush to get to school or not having time to prepare breakfast. Others said they skipped the meal to lose weight.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health Dr Narong Sahametapat has expressed concern that skipping breakfast will increase hunger throughout the day, making people overeat later and seek out snacks to compensate for missing that first meal of the day. NNT

Photo: SuperJew

Health officials on alert for MERS outbreak

Thailand’s health officials are concerned by new alarming statistics indicating that 424 cases of MERS-CoV have been reported globally, including 131 deaths.

Disease Control Department chief Dr Sophon Mekthon said that the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) revealed that all cases in April were linked to the Middle East.

In addition to Gulf States, cases have been reported in the United Kingdom, Germany and France.

Dr Sophon said the World Health Organization has urged all member countries to remain on high alert over a possible outbreak. No travel advisories have been issued so far, though.

In Thailand, a system has been put in place to quarantine the sick and to monitor any signs of an outbreak. NNT @thephuketnews

D

iet seems to be largely about personal preference. There are so many conflicting ideas on what is the best combination of food groups in order for us to perform optimally. Calorie counting, low fat, full fat, low GI, carb free, gluten free, dairy free... the list of dietary-related terms could go on forever.

But we are missing the boat here – being healthy is not about a diet, it is about a lifestyle. How you go about achieving optimal health through what you eat basically comes down to personal preference. By retraining our minds to think of food as fuel, rather than in good or bad categories, and by educating ourselves on what we consume, we create mindfulness, which changes our dietary decisions drastically.

Being in tune with our body’s needs, and knowing how to nurture them is step one in this process. It is about knowing which foods will make you feel good and which have a negative response – and you want to feel the best you can at all times, right?

So what is the answer? Eating foods that are as close to nature as possible. Foods that can be easily digested and that our body will gain maximum benefit from, with minimal side effects. Foods that will create better immunity, protect us from disease, aide our central nervous systems and feed our brains, creating alert minds that can perform at their best, handling anything that life throws at them.

It is important to think carefully about everything that passes your lips, because every morsel is a step toward or away from a better you, and we all want to move forward.

Our diets should mainly consist of: • Fruit and vegetables, particularly the dark green leafy variety, should be the basis of your diet, and certainly the most consumed source of unrefined carbohydrates.

When eaten raw they are even better, con-

With views of the Andaman Sea, the Santosa Wellness Center is surrounded by lush, green tropical jungle; a ground-breaking project representing the culmination of years of research

Cinnamon and honey contain anti-oxidants, minerals, vitamins and enzymes. Photos: Luc Viatour, Austineven taining many more enzymes than their cooked counterparts.

• Lentils and chickpeas are excellent sources of iron, protein, zinc and calcium.

Stabilising blood sugar levels, they also contain vitamin B3 which is an important component of digestive health and the central nervous system. Remember, wash, wash, wash! And if prepared from the dried variety, they must be soaked for 12 hours prior to ensure effective digestion.

• Oatmeal, buckwheat, quinoa and millet are natural grains that are full of fibre and assist the central nervous system, a very good unrefined carbohydrate source.

• Brown rice is a much healthier option than white rice.

• Nuts assist with serotonin levels (which will make you happy!) and are an excellent source of omega 6 oils and selenium which

SANTOSA WELLNESS CENTER

into the world’s best detox and wellness programmes, with a contemporary and functional edge sometimes lacking. Featuring state-of-theart facilities, the centre boasts a five-star raw

improves brain function and assists in eliminating depression.

• Olive oil – we need good fats to function!

Its high concentration of anti-oxidative substances lowers cholesterol levels and assists in the secretion of bile and pancreatic substances which has led to its reputation as one of the ‘the healing fats.’

• Honey is nature’s natural sweetener, containing sugars that do not need to be broken down by the digestive process, meaning it is quickly absorbed and gives you a natural boost. It is also anti-bacterial and has no cholesterol.

• Garlic is a great immune system booster which is also proven to assist with weight loss and decreasing blood pressure. One of the finest natural anti-oxidants available, it also boosts circulation and decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

• Water – we need at least three litres of water per day in order to remain healthy. If we are active, we need even more. Our bodies are made up of between 60-70 per cent water and it is essential to keep well hydrated in order for our blood to provide the means for nutrients to travel to all of our organs, and transport oxygen to our cells.

Following these basic principles is eating “cleanly”. By taking an interest in what we are eating, and researching everything that we allow to enter into our bodies, we get to pro-actively choose a better way of life.

It is amazing, and stimulating, to realise that little tweaks like adding cinnamon and a spoonful of honey to your diet each day effectively means that you add anti-oxidants, minerals, vitamins and enzymes whilst satisfying your sweet tooth, and by including cinnamon you stabilise blood sugar, reduce LDL cholesterol, and help to alleviate joint pain.

It just goes to show – food is medicine after all.

For more information on healthy eating, visit santosaphuket.com

and vegetarian restaurant, a juice and coffee bar, eight colon hydrotherapy rooms, a pavilion with an expansive range of healthy activities, a herbal steam sauna, and a plunge-style ice bath.

Malaria-free Asia-Pacific one step closer

T

hailand was one of 14 AsiaPacific countries that recently committed to eradicating malaria from the region by 2025.

The commitment was made on 2014 World Malaria Day (April 25), when member countries of the Asia Pacific Malaria Elimination Network (APMEN) met in Manila.

Composed of 15 countries – Bhutan, Cambodia, China, North Korea, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, Philippines, South Korea, the Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vanuatu and Vietnam – APMEN is a group jointly managed

by The University of Queensland’s School of Population Health and the Global Health Group at the University of California, San Francisco.

APMEN co-ordinator Professor

Maxine Whittaker said a declaration was signed by the network’s country partners to highlight their own malaria elimination goals and to agree on a target for the whole region.

Thailand’s specific commitment is to eradicate malaria in 80 per cent of its boundaries by 2020, although a date has not yet been set for complete eradication.

Professor Whittaker said that from 2000 to 2012, APMEN Country Partners had reduced malaria cases by 60 per cent.

“However, with an estimated 28 million new malaria cases and more than 45,000 confirmed deaths in the Asia-Pacific in 2012 alone, a renewed commitment to eradicating the disease is more important than ever,” she said.

6 EDUCATION

Natalya

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Alina

Elin

Marcus

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Mathilda

Skater-prince Khiri

Sanna

Isaiah and Max

Pupils present projects of passion

T

he PYP8 students at Phuket International Academy Day School (PIADS) – aged 10 and 11 years-old – last Friday (May 2) staged an exhibition to present the various learning and community projects the youngsters have been working on.

Based on the common theme of “self expression”, the 13 projects encompassed a wide domain of disciplines, including education, technology, music, performance, cinematography, wakeboarding, skateboarding, free-running, animal protection, social justice and community service.

As part of the dynamic PYP curriculum, students’ learning and progress is assessed by teachers, parents and peers through interactive presentations and projects – in lieu of conventional examinations. Here is a summary of the 13 projects:

Ben

Igor’s captivated audience

Denis – Built and designed an educational resource website for kids to be able to learn maths and English at home. The project was inspired by an Ethiopian man the class had met earlier this year while visiting with local refugees. The website is: educationsiteportal.weebly.com.

Alina – Made handmade crafts that

can be used as learning tools for minority students – mostly children of migrant Myanmar nationals – who attend the Bang Jo School in Thalang. The

Khiri – Skateboarding project. Khiri is donating a few boards to Bang Jo students and along with friend Isaiah, will give lessons on how to “olly”, and possibly how to kick-flip, 180 and board slide – skills Khiri has already mastered.

Christian loves his wakeboarding crafts included doll houses and a maths flash-card game.

Marcus – Built a digital education website rich in tutorials aimed at providing useful computer skills including website building and using various applications and software. The website url is: mac-portals.weebly.com Ben – Wants to build a skatepark at PIADS, and to realise his dream has been raising funds through classroombased community events. His classmates are supporting in a huge way.

Natalya – The power of performance and what is inspiration. Recorded her own social justice songs, renditions of U2’s ‘One’ and ‘Beautiful’ by Christina Aguilera.

Christian – Is raising funds in a bid to teach some students at Bang Jo School all about wake-boarding – what it is, how it relates to other type of board sports and of course how to actually do it.

Mathilda – Forayed into cinematography by directing her first short-film, a story about bullying. She wrote the script, directed and produced the film which has not been officially named yet.

Denis

Max –Wrote, performed and recorded his own poem and rap to compare and contrast the mediums of expression.

Collaborated with other students during the recording phase – Khiri beatboxed for him in the rap song, while Natalya played guitar as a backing to his spoken word poem.

Elin – Organising a concert with Ben to raise funds for the skatepark at PIADS. The concert is scheduled for May 24, and will likely take place at Layan Beach and include a line-up of student performers.

Igor – Made his own “free-running” stunt movie to demonstrate this exciting new sport that shows how determined and agile humans can emulate difficult manoeuvres done in video games and stunt films.

Sanna – Connecting to a social justice unit the class did earlier in the year, Sanna created and burned CDs with social justice songs to sell and raise money for Bang Jo kids’ school bus fees.

Elisa – Focused on Soi Dogs and the Trade of Shame (meat trade). Selling handmade souvenirs to raise funds to donate to Soi Dog Foundation. She wants to bring students to the Foundation as to raise awareness about the issue. To purchase a souvenir, email elirosa2003@gmail.com

Elisa thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

KIDS 7

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

COLOURING PHUKET!

On Sale

NOW! For commercial inquiries, call Polly on 088 765 5881 or email pr@classactmedia.co.th @thephuketnews

Every book sold helps disadvantaged kids.

With 22 Island Scenes to colour in, it makes the perfect gift for your children, friends and family.

POWERED BY

To order your copy today, call 076 612 550 or email info@classactmedia.co.th

Free colouring crayons with every copy!

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JUST

149 BAHT!

8 DINING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Olé: Patong’s tapas heaven La Bodega brings Spanish flavours served in perfect portions J.P. Mestanza editor2@classactmedia.co.th

All the bases of flavour are covered: authentic dishes, fresh seafood, and small plates so everyone on the table can get what they want

I

n the few short months that La Bodega has been open, the Patong restaurant has already created quite a buzz in the Phuket food scene.

Located in the outdoor walk through at Jungceylon mall, La Bodega is a Spanish tapas restaurant that (trust me, I’m Latino) offers only an authentic experience.

All the names on the menu are in Spanish (albeit with English descriptions in case you no habla espanol), the desserts are typically Iberian, and the chef in the kitchen is from Madrid.

“A lot of people try to do tapas, but they don’t know what they’re doing,” says Thomas Corley, the restaurant owner, “they do small dishes, sure. But it’s not tapas in the Spanish sense.”

Tommy runs his staff across the street at The

Irish Times in English, with a strong Irish accent.

But in La Bodega, he changes it up to fluent Spanish, something he learned in his 24 years of living in the Andalucia region.

“This restaurant has been in the works for the last five years, and we finally got a place here in Jungceylon a few months ago,” he says, sipping a gazpacho Andaluz (chilled tomato soup) out of a pilsner glass.

Though it comes cold, the gazpacho is a refreshingly savoury soup that cools diners down, and is perfectly suited to the hot climes of Phuket.

Straight after the gazpacho, the waitress brings out homemade bread and a cutting board full of jamon Serrano (Serrano ham cuts), which can be ordered 50g or 100g at a time.

One of the best dishes on the menu is pan Catalana (Catalonian bread), toast with Iberian ham and natural tomato slices. It’s a simple dish that punches your mouth with flavour and leaves you begging for more.

Next up was the chorizo al vino tinto y miel (red wine and honey chorizo saute) that has a silky texture and a finish that is more on the sweet side.

The sausages are cut perfectly thin.

It’s important to note that almost all the dishes here should be eaten with homemade bread, if just to soak up all the tasty sauces that chef Raul Velarde cooks up in the kitchen.

A chef since 1998, the 44-year-old from central Madrid worked for a tapas restaurant in Bangkok for several years before moving down to the island.

As he cooks up a plate of gambas al ajillo (sauteed prawns with chilli, garlic and white wine), Velarde admits his love for the sweet stuff.

“If I had to choose one thing to eat for the rest of my life, its arroz con leche (Spanish rice pudding with almonds).

Some people love chocolate, but this is better,” he says as he turns up the heat under the pan.

La Bodega takes advantage of Phuket’s proximity to the ocean with their paellas (the seafood version includes squid, shrimps, prawns, mussels, and clams) as well as the cazuela de pescado en salsa verde (fish of the day in parsley, garlic and clams sauce).

It’s also the only place in Phuket that carries Estrella Dam Inedit, a luxury brew that was crafted by Ferran Adrià, formerly the head chef of El Bulli – the famed Spanish restaurant that was voted No. 1 in the world a record five times before it closed in 2011.

La Bodega has all the bases of flavour covered: authentic dishes, fresh seafood, and small plates so everyone on the table can get what they want.

But don’t just take my word for it – try it for yourself.

La Bodega Tapas Bar Phuket, Jungceylon, Patong. For reservations, call 089 972 5122. facebook.com/labodegaphuket

Clockwise from top left: Co-owner Thomas Corley; gambas al ajillo (sauteed prawns) made by chef Raul Velarde; seafood paella; chuletas de cordero a la plancha (grilled lamb chops).

thephuketnews

10 FASHION

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

For guys who want to look their hottest this summer, it’s best to pick up some smart shorts, a nice shirt and some cool shoes, to achieve a stylish and awesome look like the two models in this week’s Style Focus

STYLE RATING!

Kung Kung’s look is simple yet stylish, using block colours and subtly patterned accessories.

T-Shirt – McJeans Shorts – Top Man Sunglasses – H&M Belt – CPS Chaps Shoes – Men’s Walker Bag – Hugo Boss Watch – Fossil

Sash STYLE RATING!

Man about town Sash works a black and red look in this ensemble.

Shirt – H&M Shorts – H&M Bag – Giorgio Armani Shoes – Bihsin

As you must know by now, famous Swedish fashion brand H&M has arrived on the island, with its grand opening at Central Festival Phuket last week causing lines around the block. Here are some of the must-buy items from their current collection

Shorts B499 Shirt B699 Belt B699 Canvas Derby Shoes B1,690 Vintage Sunglasses B399

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

TRAVEL 11

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Flushed away in Tokyo Louis Gibson editor@classactmedia.co.th

T

his is a tale of two toilets.

Japanese toilets (or toire in Japanese). Like Honda, Toyota and Sony, Japan Inc. should export its toilets. They would be a global winner.

These are no ordinary pieces of equipment. Coming from Phuket where traditional squat toilets still exist and the condition of many Western-style toilets in public places – even restaurants – encourages exiting post haste, to have the sublime experience of a Japanese toilet is a to make the six hour journey from Phuket’s 32C to Tokyo’s 3C temperatures (it warmed up to 13C during the sunny days) all the more worthwhile.

A recent business trip via a Singapore Airlines A380 mega jet (economy class is still roomy despite a chock full plane of Singaporeans and Japanese) confirmed the Japanese hypothesis that going to the toilet, lavatory, powder room, water closet, WC, toilette, latrine, dunny, karsi, john, long drop, throne and, of course, hong nam – whatever your culturally incorrect name is for a toilet is – is an experience that must right up there with the first cup of coffee in the morning or cocktail at sundowners on Phuket.

The nice room hotel presented a bewildering array of choices aligned along a little wall mounted panel. The choices were: “stop,” “spray,” “soft,” “bidet” (yes), “water pressure,” “nozzle position,” “full rinse,” “half rinse,” “half flush,” oscillating” (what?), “massage” (yikes), and “power deodorizer.” And a “toilet seat cleaner” with little wipes and instructions in English, Russian (what else?)

Korean, Chinese and Japanese. Ever seen one of these in a Phuket toilet?

So you can take your pick or, as one is wont to do when confronted by bedazzling technology while at the toilet, press every button to see what happens. Without going into intimate details your correspondent can report that everything works.

And it was heaven.

Leaving was so hard to do. But one must leave to do some work. However, it was noticeable at the fancy traditional restaurant our party went to that night, all bamboo sliding doors, origami trees, mini rivers full of goldfish and carp, not to mention a seven course exquisite Japanese meal with chopsticks and the most discrete waitresses on the planet, that many members of the group disappeared for a relief stop and took a long time to come back.

This was opposed to the “let me out of

What are you in the mood for? Spray or bidet? Photo: Armin Kübelbeck here quick and why is there never ever toilet paper, the taps don’t work and the hand wash has run out, again?” dash at a Phuket establishment. While the Thai food is always great, there’s something about small portions of rare tuna and other mysterious edible objects of unknown origin that makes Japanese eating out more adventurous.

The second toilet at another restaurant was not as fancy as the hotel, but still of world-class standard offering a smaller array of buttons, and also the familiar warm seat and automatic flushing. The Japanese penchant for overflowing baths (the hotel bath was deep with a magnificent view across a sunny Tokyo) along with automatically flushing toilets offering all sorts of “extras”(happy endings?) means the city of 34 million people cannot afford to have drought conditions like on Phuket recently.

Did I say 34 million people? Say, where were they? It was a weekend, so the Japanese salary man who clogs Tokyo’s extremely efficient train system during the week must have been off watching sumo wrestling or just resting from the enormously long hours they work to make Japan such an economically successful country.

In the central Tokyo district, however, a crazed Phuket tourist on a 1000cc motorbike could have barreled down any of the nearby streets and had a traditional Phuket motorbike accident at 130 kmph but no one would have noticed because there was no one there.

The streets, where, strangely, vehicles drive on the left hand side just like Thailand, are empty and oh-so-clean.

An elderly cleaning man with brush and collapsible shovel, so beloved of Thai women, walked the street looking forlornly for something to sweep up. Maybe when the cherry blossoms come out soon he will have more to do.

The streets were spotless. It’s the

Tokyo’s streets are spotless (and sometimes car-less, as this photo proves). @thephuketnews

same all over the city. Japan is orderly, clean, self sufficient (vending machines replace expensive labour everywhere so you are on your own if you want a bottle of water or, gasp, a cigarette still beloved by many Japanese) its people very, very polite and scrupulously honest (no tipping).

It’s not cheap. At 2.63 Yen to the Baht, or 100 Yen to the USD paying Y1300 (B500) for a “mixed sandwich” in a hotel gets a bit steep compared to my normal B40 pad see thai lunch. However, there are thousands of small restaurants offering great food at good prices.

And when it comes to presentation,

the Japanese are masters. No roughly cut slabs of white bread with a measly slice of ham and cheese here. No way.

The sandwich came in a beautiful brown lacquer box along with free water and assorted crunchy bits and presented with a lid opening flourish by a waitress who could give some, but not all, Thai waitresses a lesson or two about catching the customer’s eye for service. Everyone is attentive and polite. The doormen at the hotel kill you with over enthusiastic kindness.

So despite the prices the expense of visiting Japan is worth the experience.

Public transport is superb so our beloved taxi and tuk tuks would not last half a day in Tokyo. The bus from Narita Airport cost Y3000 (B1,140) but it was an air-conditioned, two hour ride, with porters scurrying to pick up and tag your bags at the curbside and it takes you right to the hotel. Phuket by comparison is at least B800 to Patong, more than half the distance, in a seat belt-less taxi driven by a Formula 1 wannabe.

Busines-wise, I spent a lot of time talking to Japanese businessmen about their economy. Strangely they are mainly negative and full of regret as to how other countries, like South Korea, have overtaken them in the mobile phone market and challenge their car global behemoths.

So what? Nobody can take away from them their wonderful toilets.

12 TECHNOLOGY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

IN BRIEF Amazon launches #shopping

Online retailers Amazon is allowing customers to add to their shopping cart on the site through a hashtag on Twitter.

Shoppers csn add a product to their shopping cart by tweeting #AmazonCart as a response to tweets and messages that include a link to an Amazon product.

T hough c u r rently only available to customers in the United States, this marks the first time hashtags could be used for eCommerce.

PSVita TV price cut in Thailand

Gamers in Southeast Asia who buy a PlayStation 4 before June 30 can also take home a PSVitaTV and or PSVita TV Value Pack at a 50 per cent discount, Sony recently announced.

The news comes days after Sony announced the PlayStation 4 will support Niconico Live (a Japanese video sharing website), and HD video streaming platforms like Ustream and Twitch.

The PSVita TV connects to TVs via HDMI and is compatible with both DualShock 3 and Dualshock 4 controllers.

COD trailer unveils big changes

The trailer for the Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare title, due out November, revealed several changes that could be crucial in the way the popular shooter is played.

The trailer reveals an Exo Suit, likely to be the biggest change, as it gives players enhanced abilities like wall-climbing. Gamers can also be invisible, use a Mech Suit, and use infrared grenades that allow players to see through walls.

New weapons include hoverbikes and drones, though there are still questions on whether this version will support a multiplayer mode.

Prestigious IT contest comes to Phuket Wiparatana NaThalang reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

The future of money TECH TALK Byron Noel byroncnoel@yahoo.com

The banks are worried because Bitcoin could potentially displace their entire business, and governments are worried about losing control over economies. Bad news? That’s for you to decide

Clockwise from top: Some retailers like Subway have started to accept Bitcoins; Dark Wallet makes untraceable Bitcoin transactions.

I

n the last decade we’ve seen the world change in many ways, with some of the biggest changes coming in the way we communicate.

Instant messaging and social networking have been game changers, to say the least, but frustratingly, change does not come so quickly to all.

The banking sector, an old enemy, is one of the biggest resisters to change. Governments generally aren’t too keen on change either, which creates its own set of problems for a global society.

Anyone who’s done a little travelling knows how problematic money can be. Credit cards are not always easy to get, exchanging cash is quite expensive, international bank transfers are costly, and debit cards can easily break or be lost.

Why does carrying money have to be such a pain? Well, it doesn’t: Bitcoin is changing all that.

Bitcoin is a universal digital currency. It differs from PayPal-type services in that it is its own currency (PayPal uses national currencies), and works on an open source system.

This may sound ludicrous, but the fact that it is open source means that the whole system is checked and guarded by thousands of developers, worldwide, as opposed to say a central bank.

So far it hasn’t gained full mainstream traction, but that is quickly changing.

Early adopters have mostly come in the form of those looking to buy illegal drugs or weapons (through Silk Road-type sites), and more recently through money launderers. Getting those ill-gotten gains around the planet has never been easy, but Bitcoin is changing that too.

This has, predictably, caused a bit of a stir among banks and governments around the world. Mayer Rothschild (supposedly) once said something along the lines of “Give me control of a nation’s money and I care not who makes its laws”, and boy was he on the money.

The banks are worried because Bitcoin could potentially displace their entire business, and governments are worried about losing control over economies. Bad news? That’s for you to decide.

Never the type to sit by and let people have more control over their wealth, the powers that be (in parts of the developed world) have been working hard to try and legislate the issue away. Luckily (depending on your perspective) there are people such as the unSystem team.

They’ve created a programme, Dark Wallet, which would make Bitcoin transactions virtually untraceable. Anyone could buy anything, anonymously. Liberating, or just plain scary?

Cody Wilson, co-creator of Dark Wallet, admits that “liberty is a dangerous thing”, and he is right. Just as dangerous though, is a government that controls and watches everything.

Bitcoin is on the fringes now, but not for long. It’s just too convenient. It may not be mainstream this year, but it will be very soon.

That’s a prediction you can take all the way to the bank.

TOP MOBILE APPS THIS WEEK

TOP CONSOLE GAMES THIS WEEK 1

Titanfall

Xbox 360, Xbox One

6

Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes

2

Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn

PS3, PS4, PC

7

Diablo III

3

2014 Fifa World Cup Brazil

Xbox 360, PS3

8

Grand Theft Auto V (18+)

4

inFAMOUS: Second Son

PS4

9

5

The Elder Scrolls Online

PC

10

Xbox 360, PS3, Xbox One, PS4, Xbox 360, PS3, Xbox One, PS4, PC

1

5by (Video)

iOS

2

Solar Walk (Education)

iOS

Xbox 360, PS3

3

SlideShare (News)

Android

Minecraft

Xbox 360

4

TransferWise (Money transfer)

iOS, Android

Conception II: Children of the Seven Starts

Vita

5

Frontback (Video)

iOS, Android

P

huket will become the first city in Southeast Asia to host the International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC) World Finals, with the 39 th edition of the prestigious competition to be held at the Prince of Songkhla University in June, next year.

Governor Maitri I nt hu sut r eve a le d the news on Monday (May 5) in an exclusive interview with The Phuket News at his mansion in Phuket Town.

“I will travel to the World Finals in Russia next month to receive the flag [for next year’s event] on behalf of Phuket,” he said.

T he 3 8 th IC P C World Finals will take place on June 22- June 26 at Ural Federal University in Ekaterinburg in Russia.

The World Finals of ICPC, under the umbrella of Association of Computer Machinery (ACM), brings together the best of the best in computer programming.

The contest fosters creativity, teamwork, a nd i n novat ion i n building new software programs, and enables students to test their ability to perform under pressure.

It is the oldest, largest, and most prestigious programming contest in the world.

The event finals have been held all over the world, including Sotckholm, Prague, Tokyo, and Shanghai.

Phuket previously hosted the ICPC Regional Finals in 2009, 2011 and 2013; the island also hosted the ICPC Thailand National finals in 2009 and 2010, and was the host of the ICPC Thailand’s Southern region finals in 2010. thephuketnews

FILM 13

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM 2014 THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, FRIDAY,APRIL MAY 9,4,2014

Amazing? Nah

IN BRIEF Kingsley, Hopkins to play evil duo

The film Autobahn has added a few names to their cast with heavyweight actors Ben Kingsley and Anthony Hopkins joining the fold.

The duo will play two ruthless criminals who play a deadly game of cat and mouse with a young American couple on holiday in Germany.

The couple will be played by Felicity Jones and Nicholas Hoult, while the film will be directed by Evan Creedy (Welcome to the Punch).

Production is set for later this year.

Beverly Hills Cop back in 2016

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 2 J.P. Mestanza editor2@classactmedia.co.th

While we see more of what makes Peter Parker just a regular teenager searching for the truth about his parents, we also see him conflicted about friendships, heartbroken about relationships, and reflective about his role in saving the city: stop me if you have seen this one before

W

hen the trailer for The Amazing Spider-Man 2 first came out, audiences were sold on a movie that seemingly involved Peter Parker taking on three separate bad guys, possibly all at once.

However, the trailer misrepresents just how much evil comes to New York City, which ends up mostly being in the form of Electro (Jamie Foxx) and brief clashes with the Green Goblin (Dane DeHaan).

While it could be a case of false advertising, it’s not in fact that disappointing to see that only Electro and the Goblin are part of the story. Quite the opposite, since more villains would probably have just convoluted the plot and made it even longer than the already lengthy two and a half hours.

No, the problem comes in the form of storytelling and where Spiderman is in the superhero universe, compared to the rest of the film world. While Thor, Iron Man, and Captain America are forging ahead, moving on to exciting new storylines, this incarnation of Spiderman is stuck in the origins stage.

Granted, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 does expound on Peter Parker’s parents, something that the Toby Maguire/James Francoled franchise did not (which, it should be pointed out, only finished in 2007!). This film also does a great job of giving more depth to Parker himself.

The downside is that this franchise has to keep introducing new characters and villains – complete with origin stories – in the same fashion as all the other superhero films (the exception being the crossover Christopher Nolan Batman films). This brings a stale element that doesn’t mesh well with the spirit of ‘re-invigoration’ that The Amazing SpiderMan reboot series is going for.

Yes, Electro is the slickest looking villain in almost all the superhero films out there (the exception is Heath Ledger’s Joker, on a level all to his own), and Foxx is superb as the tragic Max Dillon.

But there are too many points where the CGI extravaganza becomes a distraction and takes away from the story.

While we see more of what makes Peter Parker just a regular teenager searching for the truth about his parents, we also see him conflicted about friendships, heartbroken about relationships, and reflective about his role in saving the city: stop me if you have seen this one before.

It’s no easy task to completely change a franchise while essentially telling the same story. Even though Andrew Garfield’s take on Spiderman is light years better than Maguire’s (sorry Toby), the frenetic action and seemingly separate story lines will keep you interested, but only half-entertained.

Truth be told, my Spidey Sense just ain’t tingling over this one.

The next installment of the Eddie Murphy franchise Beverly Hills Cop has a release date of March 25, 2016, according to recent reports.

The fourth film of the franchise, which has Brett Ratner (Rush Hour) attached to direct, was first green lit

by Paramount Pictures last December. A script is currently being written by Andre Nemec and Josh Applebaum, who jointly penned Mission Impossible – Ghost Protocol.

The last film, Beverly Cops III, was released in 1994.

Redford’s Walk in The Woods

Producers of the film adaptation of the comic memoir A Walk in The Woods have finally announced the cast of the film. Emma Thompson, Kristen Schaal, and Nick Offerman are set to star alongside Robert Redford and Nick Nolte. The comedic film will see both Redford and Nolte attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail in the United States.

Ken Kwapis (Big Miracle) is set to direct the film with Michael Arndt (Little Miss Sunshine) adapting the screenplay.

US BOX OFFICE TOP 10 Film

Weekend

Gross

$92M

$92M

2 The Other Woman

$14.2M

$47.3M

3 Heaven Is for Real

$8.7M

$65.6M

America: 4 Captain The Winter Soldier

$7.8M

$237.1M

5 Rio 2

$7.6M

$106.5M

6 Brick Mansions

$3.5M

$15.5M

7 Divergent

$2.2M

$142.7M

8 The Quiet Ones

$2M

$6.8M

9 God’s Not Dead

$1.8M

$55.6M

10 The Grand Budapest Hotel

$1.7M

$51.5M

1 The Amazing Spider-Man 2

Starring: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Jamie Foxx, Dane DeHaan, Colm Feore, and Sally Field Director: Marc Webb Running time: 142 minutes

SFX Coliseum Phuket (Central Festival)

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (3D/T) The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (E) The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (G/E) The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (T) Brick Mansions (E) Brick Mansions (T) Need for Speed (E)

@thephuketnews

14:30, 17:30, 20:30 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 17:00, 18:00, 20:00, 21:00 13:15, 16:15, 19:15, 22:15 12:30, 13:30, 15:30, 16:30, 18:30, 19:30, 22:30 18:05, 22:15 16:00, 20:10 21:30

SFC Jungceylon Phuket (Patong) The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (3D/E) The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (E) Brick Mansions (E) Need for Speed (E) Noah (3D/E) Transcendence (E)

14:00, 17:00, 20:00 13:00, 15:00, 16:00, 18:00, 19:00, 21:00, 22:00 12:40, 14:50, 19:50, 22:00 18:30 17:00 15:30, 21:30

As some movies and movie times change every Thursday morning, after The Phuket News has gone to press, the accuracy of the following information cannot be guaranteed.

For up-to-date information, visit sfcinemacity.com, or call the cinemas directly: SFX Coliseum Phuket 076-209000 and SFC Jungceylon Phuket 076-600-555.

14 ENTERTAINMENT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Legends of Siam conquer all

T

he 2014 Battle of the Young Bands held on Sunday, May 4 at the Hard Rock Café in Patong featured fierce competition among the 11 bands vying for the top spot and mega cash prizes.

Llamas of Rock, the youngest band in the competition, stole the hearts of the audience with their spirited performance, and despite their average age being just 11, they put on a confident show.

However, the competition’s overall winners – Legends of Siam – performed one cover version and one original song written by two of the band members, to win over the judges and take home the grand prize of B25,000, recording time for three songs; a music video and press sponsorship.

Second place went to Thai heavy rock band LeePree who put in an exceptional performance of two Avenged Sevenfold songs. They won B15,000.

Third place went to Eye Forgot from Siobhan’s Music School. Despite losing a member recently, Eye Forgot have regrouped and put on a terrific performance earning them B10,000.

Other stand-out performances on the day were from Thai band Sidera, who narrowly missed out on a prize, and Thai band Umbrella who ended the competition with a powerful vocal display.

The panel of five judges from the local and international music industry

Legends of Siam won the grand prize of B25,000 as well as recording time for three songs, a music video and press sponsorship. Photo: Nick Davies – including Live 89.5 DJ Jason Wilder – provided each band with constructive and honest feedback following the completion of each performance.

The capacity crowd provided much support for the bands, which egged them on to deliver their best perfor-

mances.

The Phuket International Academy Day School (PIADS) sponsored the three cash prizes totalling B50,000, Legend Music provided the winners with studio time for three songs, and Hard Rock Café Patong provided the

venue and gave all locals supporting the event a 25 per cent discount on food and beverages.

Class Act Media provided all media coverage for the event, and sponsored the winners with a professionally produced music video and PR package.

Album is right on the money Steven Layne editor3@classactmedia.co.th

I

t’s been four months since Phuketbased French pop, jazz and funk band, Le Deja Vu released their latest LP Game of Money, yet the album is still playing on constant repeat in my car.

I’ll admit, the CD, which I’d acquired at a live performance at Royal Phuket Marina back in February, was sitting in my car’s glove-box for several weeks before I finally got around to putting it into the player; and I had to listen a few times before it eventually grew on me.

But now I can’t go through my days without tapping my feat and bobbing my head while I hum the catchy hooks of songs like ‘Cause We Won’t Remember’ or ‘I Saw It Coming Like A Train’ – really great tunes for helping to maintain sanity through busy Phuket traffic.

Le Deja Vu is composed of a longtime core duo, who mostly go by their first names Anne and Jimmy, who’ve been playing music together for 13 years. Their band performs both publicly and privately. When needed, they expand their crew to include a live drummer, electric guitarist, and even dancers.

Game of Money comprises 10 original tracks for a 40-minute-long “roller coaster” listening experience; Le Deja Vu play a remarkably eclectic amalgamation of melody, groove and tempo – drawing from jazz, funk, electronic, emo, Latin, classical and even a bit of

Frontman Jimmy wrote and produced most of the songs on Le Deja Vu’s latest album. ska and reggae (listen to track number 8, ‘Space for Rent’, for a great chill-out tune).

Indeed, this album has something for everyone – dancers, dwellers, lovers... there’s even a tribute to the Phuket Tsunami (track no 6). But my personal favourite has definitely got to be track number 9, ‘You’re The One’, an upbeat and motivational jazz tune, which has a slight hint of Brazilian samba, driven by hypnotic percussions, fluttering keys and melodic saxophone.

Game of Money is available from ledejavu.com thephuketnews

16 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Phuket City Mayor Somjai Suwansupapana (centre white t-shirt); and Phuket Town Vice Mayor Kavee Suktanon (second from right).

Music Matter owner Jeffrey Sevilla and musician George Cordeiro.

JAZZY TIMES International Jazz Day was celebrated on April 30 at Music Matter in Phuket Town with a large turnout of musicians. The event was supported by the Phuket City Municipality.

Boy and George.

Bongo Bob.

GREAT SERVICE Moevenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket recently were given an award from Russian travel agency Pegas Touristik for their service. From left, Espen Westlie, Phuket Branch Manager; Abdullah Cankaya, Director of Pegas Touristik Asia Pacific Countries at Pegas Touristik Thailand; Hansruedi Frutiger, General Manager; Kubilay Atac, General Manager; and Ender Turkyilmaz, Contracting Manager.

BIRTHDAY FUN On April 27, Georges Dufresne (aboive, centre) celebrated his 40th birthday at Le Versace Restaurant and Lounge in Patong. Photo: Pozeidon

RIDE FOR TOURISM Tourism Authority of Thailand organised a bike ride to attract more high-end tourists from Russia. The ride was started by Anoma Wongyai (director of TAT Phuket) and Oriol Montal (general manager of JW Marriott Maikhao Beach.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

ISLAND SCENE 17

BATTLE GROUND On Sunday (May 4), young bands from all over Phuket converged at the Hard Rock Café in Patong to compete in the Battle of the Young Bands. This year’s winners were Legends of Siam (left).

SECRETS REVEALED Mom Tri’s Villa Royale welcomed San Diego-based Thai cooking celebrity Su-Mei Yu (right, in white) to give a special presentation on Thai flavours, spices, philosophy, history and other secrets. After the presentation, guests enjoyed a fabulous and healthy set lunch to the backdrop of waves crashing ashore at Kata Noi Beach.

From left: Pascal Jolivet, Trisara General Manager Antoine Melon, Executive Chef Kla Prakobit.

MAGIC NIGHT TIME TO PLAY Russian-speaking children in Phuket enjoyed a new musical play by a local troupe on May 4. The next premiere is scheduled on June 1, Children’s Day. @thephuketnews

On Friday (May 2), Trisara welcomed France’s Pascal Jolivet, owner and founder of one of the youngest and most dynamic estates in Loire Valley, who personally hosted an exclusive dinner titled “The Magic of Nature” at Trisara Seafood Restaurant.

18 EVENTS

FRI

09 MAY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM Phuket News, Novosti Phuketa, Live 89.5, The Phuket News TV.

launching an elite fight series “Suk Singpatong + Sitnumnoi Saturday Night Fight” in Patong Boxing Stadium (Sai Nam Yen), where top international fighters will compete. Visit the official website at www.patong boxingstadium.com.

Proudly supported by Class Act Media: The Phuket News, Novosti Phuketa, Live 89.5, The Phuket News TV.

Miami Beach Party @ Bliss For the 3rd year in a row Bliss Beach Club has generously agreed to host this year’s May fundraising event - Miami Beach Party. Indulge yourself in an amazing evening with live entertainment by EKA Sounds, fashion show from Island Bliss, delicious food from Bliss Beach Club, Breeze at Cape Yamu, Point Yamu by COMO & Lady Pie and tons of dancing. For the Ticket or questions, please contact 076-278146 or info@phukethasbeengoodtous.org Proudly supported by Class Act Media: The Phuket News, Novosti Phuketa, Live 89.5, The Phuket News TV.

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

food Sunday brunch featuring lots of LIVE Canadian Lobsters, Tiger prawns, freshly shucked Oysters, Wagyu rump and Foie Gras. Meander from one live cooking station to the next, and don’t forget to leave room for cheese and dessert. With live Jazz music and a kids club, starting at B2,500++ per person including free flow of selected beverages. Advance bookings are highly recommended. Contact 076 372 400. fb-phuket@banyantree.com.

Jungle Yoga for Kids Spend a day in the newly opened Santosa Detox and Wellness Center in Kata and bring your children (4-12 years) to our FREE Jungle Yoga class this Saturday at 2pm. We will guide them through an adventurous, playful and fun yoga class. Parents can enjoy the day relaxing and enjoying healthy delicious juices, tasting some of our delicious vegetarian and raw food in the Santosa Restaurant and treat yourself with spa treatments form the Santosa Spa. Call +66 (0) 76 330 600 or visit www. santosaphuket.com for more information

Weekend Indulgence Leave all your worries behind and enjoy a day of pampering and relaxation with The Pavilions’ ultimate Weekend Indulgence, designed to make you feel on holiday - even if just for a day! Every Saturday and Sunday enjoy 50% off all our Spa Pleasures, heavenly treatments designed to revive and energize body & mind in the privacy of your own Spa sanctuary. After your pampering session, let us treat you to complimentary afternoon tea in pure Pavilions style! Spa opening hours: 10.00 am – 8.00 pm Afternoon tea is served from 3.30 pm to 4.30 pm Book your Weekend Indulgence by contacting spa.phuket@thepavilionsresorts.com

Pool Competition at Expat Hotel

Phuket Walking Street Phuket Walking Street, “Laad Yai” is a Village & Community Development Potential Project (SML) of the “Old Phuket Town Community” in Laad Yai, Phuket Town.

The visitors can enjoy the Old Phuket Town atmosphere which benefit to the local economic growth in the Old Phuket Town community. Open every Sunday from 16.00 - 22.00 Hrs. For more info visit facebook.com/phuketwalkingstreet or contact: 089 474 5253.

Proudly supported by Class Act Media: The Phuket News, Novosti Phuketa, Live 89.5, The Phuket News TV.

Pool Competition at 9pm. Expat Sports Bar, Soi Taipan, Patong. expatsportsbar.com.

Bikini Contest & Pool Party 2014

Indian Curry Night on Fridays Come to Navrang Mahal in Karon Sea Sands Resort & Spa for an authentic Indian Feast every Friday in Karon Beach.

Try out our delicious naans, mutton vindaloo, chicken tandoori, dal makhini, butter chicken, samosas, lassis and many more mouth-watering dishes. For only 499/- nett and special reduced prices on drinks.

SAT

10 MAY

Are you ready to get wasted wet with the best day life pool party? Famous Phuket presents “Bikini Contest & Pool Party 2014” on Saturday 10 May from 13.00-18.00 pm. More information email: marketing@ famousphuket.com or call Eng: 089 892 5778, Rus: 094 582 6202 Proudly supported by Class Act Media: The Phuket News, Novosti Phuketa, Live 89.5, The Phuket News TV.

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

The Good Shepherd Merchandise Shop Open Every Wednesdays and Saturdays. Plaza Del Mar, Laguna (Behind Bake). Time: 10am to 1pm every Wednesday and 9am to noon every Saturday. We have a wide and wonderful selection of handicrafts such as toys, greeting cards, ornaments, lanterns, bags, purses and many more. You can also find exquisite arts and craft created by local residents. Pre-loved items include books, clothes and toys. Handicraft items are made by the disadvantaged members of society that The Good Shepherd strives to empower. All proceeds go directly to The Good Shepherd mission. See thegoodshepherd.info.

Proudly supported by Class Act Media: The Phuket News, Novosti Phuketa, Live 89.5, The Phuket News TV.

SUN

11 MAY

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice of either roast beef, chicken, loin of pork or leg of lamb served with roast and boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Only B320 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See otools-phuket.com.

MON

12 MAY

Soi Dog Shelter Open Day

BBQ All You Can Eat at Shakers

Support the ongoing efforts of the Soi Dog Foundation, “The Soi Dog Shelter” on 10th May from 9.30 to midday. Resident Vet answers questions on pet care, Shelter Tour, Adoptions and much more. For more info, contact cristy@soidog.org Tel: 093 685 1332 Proudly supported by Class Act Media: The

Mondays & Thursdays. BBQ all you can eat: pork, chicken, beef, prawns, fish and squid with salad buffet, cold and hot sauces, garlic bread, baked potatoes, potato salad and more for B325 per person. 7pm-11pm. Located in Patong on Rat-U-Tit 200 Pee Road next to Hotel Mercure. patongshakers.com

Suk Singpatong + Sitnumnoi Every Saturday Night, Num Noi Singpatong, the head trainer and owner of Singpatong + Sitnumnoi Gym in Patong Beach, has been

Live Seafood & Jazz Sunday Brunch at Banyan Tree Join Banyan Tree’s indulgent LIVE Sea-

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

MON

12 MAY

EVENTS 19

THU

15 MAY

The Art of Pasta

Thai market night Experience an authentic taste of Thailand and simple a wide variety of dishes prepared fresh for you. Market night price is weight of chosen items every Monday at Ban Aroi from 6.30 - 9.00 pm. For bookings, please call Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas on 076 336 900 # 781.

TUE

13 MAY

Half Chicken Spit Roast

Ladies night A women networking event full of surprises at the new Santosa Wellness and Detox Center in Kata. A great opportunity for women to meet, connect and experience a rejuvenating evening. We will treat you with massage angels; our amazing chef will offer some hors d’ouvres from our Santosa vegetarian restaurant AND you will also get to try some of our own Santosa handmade natural beauty products. We will finish the evening with a fascinating and insightful talk on anti- aging, this Thursday 7.00 pm. Call +66 (0) 76 330 600 or visit www. santosaphuket.com for more information

Tuesdays and Saturdays: Half chicken spit roast with french fries, salad buffet, potato salad & gravy sauce for B225 per person.

7pm-11pm. Located in Patong on Rat-U-Tit 200 Pee Road next to Hotel Mercure.

WED

14 MAY

BBQ Steak night Enjoy flame-grilled steak, cooked to perfection and served with fresh selections from our buffet BBQ night THB 1,190++ per person. Free children under 7 and half price for 7 to 12 yrs old every Wednesday at Panache from 6.30 to 10.00 pm. For bookings, please call Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas on 076 336 900 # 781.

Wednesdays and Fridays. BBQ ribs all you can eat with salad buffet and potato salad for B295 per person. 7pm-11pm. Located in Patong on Rat-U-Tit 200 Pee Road next to Hotel Mercure. patongshakers.com

@thephuketnews

Join us for an afternoon dedicated to the epitome of Mediterranean delight. Chef Belinda will host a unique workshop to show you how to make fresh pasta from scratch and prepare the most classic of Italian recipes. At the end of the class, all chefs will be invited to enjoy a well earned glass over a steaming bowl of pasta. Buon appetito!

Join us for The Art of Pasta at The Plantation Restaurant on the 23rd of May at 11.30 am Pasta workshop, including your home cooked lunch, recipe booklet and Pavilions apron at 1,200 THB++ per person. To book your cooking class contact restaurants. phuket@thepavilionsresorts.com

EVERY DAY

Phuket International Rugby 10

Southern Phuket Pool League Walkabout v White Hart, Pita Bar v Buddha Bar, Ying Yang v All stars Sports Bar, Australia Bar & Grill v No Name Bar. All games start 8pm. southernphuketpool.com Proudly supported by Class Act Media: The Phuket News, Novosti Phuketa, Live 89.5, The Phuket News TV.

FRI

16 MAY

The 16th Strategic Sports Phuket International Rugby 10s 2014 will take place on the 23rd, 24th and 25th of May at the Thanyapura Sports & Leisure Club in sunny Phuket. If you are interested in playing in this year’s tournament, please contact Pat Cotter at phuketrugby@gmail.com. Better hurry, places are filling up fast!

Proudly supported by Class Act Media: The Phuket News, Novosti Phuketa, Live 89.5, The Phuket News TV.

TUE

27 MAY

FREE Herbal Steam Sauna & Ice Bath At the newest Detox and Wellness center in Kata. We invite you to experience a relaxing and rejuvenating evening in our herbal steam sauna and ice bath. This is FREE every day from 4 – 8pm. If you would like to continue the evening with a sunset dinner overviewing the ocean the Santosa restaurant has a wide variety of raw food, vegan and vegetation meals. Call +66 (0) 76 330 600 or visit www.santosaphuket. com for more information

DJ MAKJ Live in Phuket

Wizard of OZ production at PIADS BBQ Ribs All You Can Eat

FRI

23 MAY

2014 Whole school production. Friday 16 May 2014 - 7pm, Saturday 17 May 2014 1pm. Venue - PIADS Multi-purpose Hall. All welcome to enjoy this classic stage performance. Tickets available at the school reception - Adults 300 THB, Children 150 THB. Email: kim.minnaar@pia.ac.th, Phone: 076 336 076 ext 1706

Join us for the special evening, “DJ MAKJ Live in Phuket” at Seduction Beach Club & Disco on Tuesday 27th May 2014. Starts from 10 pm onwards. Mackenzie Johnson, better known as MAKJ has achieved an almost unfathomable amount of success. His dedication to his craft and ambition to surpass any and all competitors will further propel MAKJ higher than you could ever have imagined. See more info at: www.seductiondisco.com Proudly supported by Class Act Media: The Phuket News, Novosti Phuketa, Live 89.5, The Phuket News TV.

Art Exhibitions Oasis ed.Phuket Oasis ed.Phuket hosts a new Art Exhibition at The Book Cafe in Rawai.To be engaging and enhancing peoples experiences with art. 22 April-8 May 2014, “Brothers–A Revolution Song” Oil Paintings by Chaianan Bumrungchoo and 10 May–12 June 2014 “Child-like”–Water Colour paintings by Vincent Henon For more info please contact info@oasisedphuket.com Proudly supported by Class Act Media: The Phuket News, Novosti Phuketa, Live 89.5, The Phuket News TV.

20 TIME OUT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York

1. How many years’ difference is there between the Buddhist and Gregorian calendars?

2. In which Thai province is the Bridge on the River Kwai?

3. Which two rivers meet in the Golden Triangle?

4. Which European country is to the south of Gibraltar?

5. What is the correct word for a group of alligators?

Answers below right.

SUDOKU

Across 1. Lacks 6. Reddish-brown gem 10. Basilica area 14. Exterior 15. Turkish official 16. Get-out-of-jail money 17. High school garb 20. Lose resilience 21. Deep black 22. Farmers’ association 23. Duck down 25. Gaelic tongue 26. Sea eagles 28. Swell 32. Some holiday gifts?

34. Plane-jumping G.I. 35. Suffix with ideal 38. High school event 42. Poetic paean 43. M.P.’s quarry 44. Provide, as with some quality 45. Missed the alarm 48. Sarah’s husband 49. Tent event 51. Deceive 53. Wired 55. Digestion aid

56. Early evictee 59. High school offerings 62. Narrow street 63. Director Reiner 64. Hideouts 65. Squeaked (out) 66. N. Carolina county 67. Kind of pen

26. Repeat performance?

27. Cross 29. Shed 30. Browning work?

31. Fraction of a joule 33. Like some triangles 35. It comprises 17,508 islands 36. Gulf war missile 37. Recompense Down 39. See red?

1. Bikers’ rides 40. Unkempt hair 2. Something in the 41. It’s just for openers air 3. Sting or Slash, e.g. 45. Covered with goo 4. James Fenimore 46. Eave hanger Cooper’s “___ 47. Head Myers” 49. ___ preview 5. Aligned 50. Set apart 6. Folklore creature 52. Ardors 7. Not fer 53. Eye 8. Frat letter 54. Leave one’s mark 9. “Drat!” on 10. On base 11. King protectors 55. Maryland stadium 57. Green 12. Burn a bit 13. Ultimatum ender 58. Start of North Carolina’s motto 18. Out, in a way 60. Singer Charles 19. Hand ___ 24. Man, for one 61. Gained a lap

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1. Buddhism is older by 543 years; 2.Kanchanaburi; 3. The Mekong and the Ruak; 4. Spain; 5. A congregation.

GOT YOUR NUMBER

■■Adopt a dog

■■ May 9, 1671 Colonel Thomas Blood, dressed as a clergyman, attempts to steal England’s crown jewels. He is caught while f leeing but re ceive s a mysterious royal pardon from King Charles II.

10

123

The number of possible chess games permutations. (That’s 10 followed by 123 zeroes.)

30

■■ May 10, 1497 Amerigo Vespucci – after whom America is named – allegedly leaves Cádiz for his first voyage to the New World, five years after Columbus reached the West Indies.

Days it takes for you to grow an entirely new skin.

10,000

■■ May 11, 1924 Mercedes-Benz is formed when Gottlieb Daimler and Karl Benz merge their two companies.

Number of chocolate bars the average person eats in a lifetime.

3

■■ May 12, 907 Zhu Wen forces Emperor Ai of China to abdicate, ending 300 years of Tang Dynasty rule.

Number of hearts that squid, octopuses and oysters have.

■■ May 13, 1787

11

Captain Arthur Phillip leaves Por t smout h , England, with 11 ships filled with convicts (the “First Fleet”) to establish a penal colony in Australia.

Number of holes-in-one that the late Kim Jong Il of North Korea achieved in his first and only round of golf – according to the country’s state media.

241543903

Search in Google images for this and you will get pictures of people putting their heads in refrigerators.

Source: Uberfacts

This week in history

Hello, I’m Monday and I live in the A4 run at the Soi Dog shelter, and I am the cuddliest, most huggable dog. I love people and affection and look forward to welcoming all the volunteers into my run. I am very good on the lead and am getting much better with our resident ducks. New environments don’t really frighten me. I would love to live with a family who can walk me lots and love me forever!

If you would like any more information on adopting Monday please email cristy@soidog.org or contact the Soi Dog shelter on 081 788 4222, Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm.

■■ May 14, 1939 Lina Medina of Peru becomes the youngest confirmed mother in medical history, at the age of five.

■■ May 15, 1988 After more than eight years of fighting, the Soviet Red Army gives up and begins its withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 17

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Property

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PROPERTY FOR RENT

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

2 BR. PRIVATE POOL 180SQM APT

Beautiful Villa For Sale: 4 Bedroom/4Bathroom detached villa on 164Sq.Wah with swimming pool.

Superb location between ChalongPhuket Town. Now 8 Million Baht. Call for appointment to view. 089 868 5143

Rent from 65,000THB. Incl. c l e a n i n g , l i n e n ,t o w e l s c h a n g e weekly. Fast fibernet. Cable TV.2 big bathrooms.Wash/dry machine.

Big complete kitchen.Quiet location.

Only extra cost electricity. Contact: 086 940 6560, E-mail: 4711en@ gmail.com

Villa for Rent:

Cheng Talay area Large 5 Bedroom 5 Bathroom set in 1.2 Rai gated garden with double carport and private pool / sala area. Long or short term rentals. B90,000 Per Month 076 272 177.

Supalai Hills house for rent The Villa is 244 sqm.Which has 4 comfy bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen, set in private, secure surroundings and conveniently located as it’s just a 20 minutes drive to the BIS and PIA international schools.Only 15 minutes drive away from Phuket’s top beaches Bangtao and Surin.0848519795 Email : robert. anthony.krause@gmail.com

DELUXE PENTHOUSE/ LOFT 120SQM

GOLF villa at Loch Palm: GOLF villa at www.lochpalm.com with pool on 8th hole green. Luxury 3 bedrooms with en-suites. 12 month lease.

Avail 1st March. THB 55000 per month plus bond. Call Tim 0858942268, Email timshaw@bigpond.com.

Rent from 29,000THB/month, Long/ Short term, Inc. weekly cleaning, towel & linen change. Fibernet 65MB,Cable T V, King bed, big bathrooms,terrace 20 SQM. Quiet, 500 M to Chalong pier. Only extra cost electricity. Email: 4711en@ gmail.com, Call: 086 940 6560

Luxury 1 Bedroom F/F Apartment

65 Sqm. cable T.Vs(2)& wifi cleaning and laundry service available. Great location central Patong (Soi Sansabai) short or long term welcome. Tel Ian 087-8879070 e-mail Ianscondo@ yahoo.com

NEW DE LUXE BIG STUDIO 70SQM dcondo Creek in PK for rent Brand new fully furnished condo for rent. Studio of 29.82 sq.m. Fitness, clubhouse,100-meter-swimming pool length. Great location. Starts from 11,000 THB/mnth, Tel. 076 681 188, www.plus.co.th, Email: Phuket@plus. co.th

Rent from 24,000 THB/MONTH. Inc. weekly cleaning, towel & linen change. Extra cost electricity.

Queen bed,terrace 20 SQM. Big bathroom, Wifi Fibernet 65MB. CABLE TV, complete kitchen set.

Email: 4711en@gmail.com, Call: 086 940 6560

NOW OPEN!!

DELUXE STUDIO 34 SQM NOW AVAILABLE!!

1,2,3,4 bedroom different private pool villas for RENT in Naiharn-Rawai., start from 15000 baht/month. (Holiday rental, Short-Long term) Please contact: 087-877-2320 En / 084-854-9889 Th

Rent from 13,000 THB/month, long/ short term. Extra cost electricity.

Furnished, Wifi Fibernet 65 MB, Cable TV, microwave, blender, water boiler, plates, weekly cleaning, towel & linen change.Quiet area, Lot of parking space. Email: 4711en@ gmail.com, Call: 086 940 6560

IN THE NATURE ROMANTIC THAISTYLE RESORT Daily 2000Thb, Weekly 12000Thb, Monthly 44000Thb Included: Daily room cleaning, Linen changing once/week, Internet Wi-Fi, Cable TV, Smart TV, Electricity, Free bicycle, BBQ grill, Exes to Cinema room. www.coco-palace.com

Rent- 2 Bed Bungalow Nai Harn Air Condition – Color TV, Free UBC cable Platinum Package. Free Internet.

Master bed, excellent mattress, Sealy Posturepdic. Couch + chairs w/ end tables. Counter bar w/ stools. Cooking Equip / Fridge. Short term – 16,000 per month, Long Term – 13,500 per month Plus Damage Deposit. Available now 1--April-2013. Call Nok 087-244-1322

Inexpensive land plots on East coast of Phuket for sale, 0.3 - 5 rai, some with a sea view (Bang Pae, Pak Lok, Yamu Hills). Direct sale by owner. Comercial property: two-storey building: 50 rooms, 13 bathrooms, 3 kitchens, 4 rai land plot, 7 min from airport. Nicely renovated. Can be a hospital/school/ commercial/residential property.

35 mln baht. Contact: Lana, Email: lana.phuket@gmail.com, Tel: 080 27 16 484

PROPERTY FOR SALE GRAND VIEW CHALONG BAY: VILL A & L A N D: 3 bed

Apartment for long term rent Patong Tower ( M 704 ) fully furnished 68 sq. mtrs for long term rent. Included: Cable TV ; Satellite TV ; Wifi internet access ; parking ; security ; Price 18,000/M, Contact: Jaspal Singh, jaspalt@loxinfo.co.th

INEXPENSIVE LAND PLOTS AND COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

PANORAMIC SEA VIEW L AND: Spec t ac ular view of Land & House for sale:

2.5 rai (N.S.-3 K document) near Kathu waterfall. 2 houses, 1 small house & 2 pools, big garage. 3 way Entrance. B28 million. Call 081 893 0540, 076 385 775 email: anong540@hotmail.com.

Phang Nga Bay, James Bond and Phi Phi Islands. Road access, underground utilities. 4.5 km from Heroine Monument. 1.99 Rai at 5.9MB per rai. Chanote title. 089 473 8338, PhuketOne@gmail.com.

room, 4 bath room, 2 livingroom, 1 dinningroom, 1 kitchen (american style), 1 garage (2 cars), 1 swimming pool (10x4), 1 bed room for a maid, 1 bath room for a maid, Internet, Security 24/24, Sea view and jungle view, Total sqm 556.92, Total land sqm 581, a.p e ll e gr in o2810 @ gm ai l.c o m, 084 241 3387. Price 4.24MB.

WRITE YOUR CLASSIFIED PREMIUM: PAY ONCE PER MONTH B2,799+VAT. PAY ONCE PER MONTH WILL RUN ONLINE FOR 30 DAYS AND IN 4 ISSUES OF THE PRINT EDITION PER MONTH. *INCLUDES 1 PICTURE IN THE PAPER AND 10 PICTURES ONLINE.

Headline: ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ......

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Online upgrades:

Website link B199

Print upgrades:

Extra lines B99

Urgent banner B199 Box B199

Colour Background B199

Colour Headlines B199

INCLUDE NOVOSTI PHUKETA PHUKET’S ONLY RUSSIAN NEWSPAPER (FREE TRANSLATION TO RUSSIAN) B1,699+VAT.

DEADLINE: MONDAY 11.59PM (MIDNIGHT) FOR THAT WEEKS ISSUE Hand this in at agent shops, our office or fax: 076 612 553 @thephuketnews

18 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

PROPERTY IN PHUKET PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

NEW PRIVATE POOL VILLA CHALONG 5.9 MB. 165 SQM. Rent 45,000 THB. 2 STOREY .3 Bathrooms, 2 Bedrooms. 4 AIRCON. Modern Western style. Thai company. Good Parking. Email: 4711en@gmail.com, Call: 086 940 6560

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com 7th Floor Suites (Hotel) Building For Sale

RAWAI VILLA: BARGAIN PRICE Spacious property in 1,000sqm garden. Private 9x4m pool. Three large beds, all a/c and en suite. Big Western kitchen. Plus guest house. Furnished.

Private access. Price cut for quick sale. Call: 087 273 0141

Pr ic e 14.9 M B.TH B/ Rent from 100,000THB/month, 200m. from the beach. Gated.24 hours security. Resort 33 units. Good rental return,8pct.

Thaicompany. Email: 4711en@gmail. com, Call: 086 940 6560

17 MB.THB/RENT 150,000THB/ MONTH. New Deluxe Patak villa 300. Quiet area. 5 bedrooms,4 kitchens,6 bathrooms.10 air cons. Good Parking. Many possibilities. Holiday rental 4 units. Email: 4711en@gmail. com, Call: 086 940 6560

Total 1.5 rai (2,450sq metre) on gently sloping land with sea view of Phang Nga Bay. 2 separate Chanote titles each about 1,200 sq metres (4.5 and 5.5M), or will sell as one lot.

Underground services. 081 273 7326, email: kmar74@hotmail.com.

Price total 38 million Baht (9.50.000.euro) include chanote and Thai company.

For serious interest email: maurice.phuket@gmail.com, Tel: 081 788 8280

New House For Sale Kathu

Special Sale Luxury Apartment 2 really big beds rooms, big kitchen and living 135 sqm include furnishing in the center of Kata - sea level close to shops and sea in a charming property: with-poolsauna-parking etc; market price (10.5 mill bth) NOW 7.5 mill bth Tel: 0817888280 or mail maurice. phuket@gmail.com

For Sale 2 villas with this view

Situated at Ao Por, 2 modern contemporary villas. Infinity pool, 3 bedrooms, 4 bahtrooms, study, large living area, terrace and covered parking for 2 cars.

Priced from 24 MB. info@thecurvephuket.com, www.thecurvephuket.com.

Sin gl e H ou se Sp e c i a l Price Rent/Sale: Nice house fully furnished with teakwood furniture, ready to move in. 240 sqm. 4 bed 4 bath, close to Kathu waterfall and market. Near Loch Palms, major stores, BIS and KIS. B45,000 per month. Call Oranwan 086 883 3169.

Special Sale Luxury Apartment

2 BEDR. KATA GARDENS 6B 180SQM

East Coast Sea View Land

Kata Beach Center 9 apar tments and a 300 sqm Penthouse on the roof plus fully equipped restaurant and pool with terrace are free of rent and now available.

Sabai Village Kathu behind Red Mountain Golf Course , 2 Bedroom , 2 Bathroom with off street parking. 42.9 Sq Wah in a small QUIET boutique estate. Full Chanote Title. CALL GIM 081 606 5772

2 BEDR. KATA GARDENS 6B 180SQM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

1-bedroom 60 sqm include furnishing in the center of Kata - sea level close to shops and sea in a charming property: with-poolsauna-parking etc; market price (4.1 mill bth) NOW 2.6 mill bth Tel: 0817888280 or mail: maurice. phuket@gmail.com

One Sale 3 Luxury Apartments

Patong Free Hold Condo: Great investment oppor tunit y i n Pa t o n g . I h ave 2 N E W LY RENOVATED condos in same complex near Simon Cabaret. Both condos fully funished + free hold.

Condo no.1 4th floor studio unit 50sqm already rented out. Condo no.2 just funished renovation 3rd floor 1 bedroom 50sqm every thing brand new. This one never use and could be your residence plus earn income from other condo.Complex has huge pool + garden and 24 hrs. security. I want 5 MB for both. Eng 085 471 9246 Thai 087 621 3405.

Modern Villa in Marina: A spacious family home in Boat Lagoon.

Modern contemporary style with 4+1 beds, 4 bathrooms. Large dining area, private swimming pool and fully furnished. 29.5 MB. Size 616 Sq.M. Call 076 238 948.

Land & House Park, Chalong: Villa for sale, 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, 1 Kitchen, 1 Living room, Fully furnished and equipped, Garden 240 SQM. B6.8 M Tel. 083 394 4536(Eng) /084 443 5389(Thai/Eng) flaviofurlanis@yahoo.it.

Sea View Off Plan Condominiums: 65m2 Condominium. 1

Bedroom, 1 En Suite Bathroom, Living Room, Kitchen, Pool, Large Balcony and Terrace Space, Parking. Excellent investment opportunity. www.propertyforsalephuket.co.uk.

1. 2 really big beds rooms big kitchen and living: 135 sqm 2. 1 bedroom 60 sqm 3. 1 bedroom 58 sqm a total of 253 sqm in the center of Kata - sea level close to the shops and sea in a charming property: with-pool-sauna-parking etc; Total market price (18.4 mill bth) NOW 13.4 mill bth Tel:0817888280 or mail: maurice.phuket@gmail. com

Land Plot for Sale: Chanote title at Cherng Talay / Pasak7 (Phuket - Surin Beach area) Phone 090 487 8084. Email: utaipan@ yahoo.com.

Kamala Pool Villa:

Large 3 Bedroom house in mature estate offering high security. (Option to build 4th bedroom)Located in a peacefull no thru road, min’s from beach. Recently renovate, available for immed move in. Chanote title, Price 12.5 MB Call 087 078 9707 Email: kiwigolfpro@outlook.com.

House for sale in Kathu Urgent!!!

House for sale, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2 living area , Large laundry, Large Balcony, Western kitchen, Fully Furnished 5 LCD T Vs, Pool Table. At Kathu.

Tel: 086-0826078. Email:astroboy1959 @hotmail.com

AO POR SEAVIEW LAND: 1.5 Rai cleared, tiered land with constructed, drained access road from “Beach Road”. Chanote. 400m from Ao Por Grand Marina. Building will have 270 degree view of islands and Krabi. B10,000,000, 082 277 5971.

DELUXE STUDIO 34 SQM 6.8 MB.THB/rent from 60.000THB. At Twinsands ABSOLUTE 5 Star Hotel and Spa! Just outside Patong, Sea view. Pool view. Excellent restaurant. Modern style. Parking space. Good rental return 10 pct.

Email: 4711en@gmail.com, Call: 086 940 6560

Patong Condo for sale: A nice foreign freehold condominium for sale in Patong is located in a recently complete development of one & two bedrooms condominiums. Located on the fourth floor of a total of five. 080 052 8082.

Land for sale: 2 rai of land in the South of Phuket. Unique location on the hills between Naiharn and Rawai, 5 mins from the beach.

Panoramic view on Chalong bay and Naiharn. Easy access via private road, reputable neighborhood (German village), tropical forest.

Ready project for a 3 storey villa.

3200 sq. m. Call Svetlana 086 743 4657 or Alexander +7 926 914 5555, oxum@mail.ru; samat2011@yandex.ru, Price : 18.5 million for 1 rai .

Freehold House for sale: Freehold house for sale in estate in Cherng Talay. Land 735m2, floor area 230m2, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom. Many upgrades incl new carport included. Price B11 million. Call 083 509 8797 for info or viewing.

Luxury Villa in Chalong: Perfect condition, 660 sqm on 3 levels, 1,600 sqm land, 5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, swimming pool 12.5m x 6m with jacuzzi, large sala, double garage. Top quality construction. Reduced price: B25.5 million www.tamata-phuket.com crishausb@hotmail.com. 086 271 3260 or 086 273 4149.

3 Bed Pool Villa Pa Khlok: 3 Beds, 2 Bath 6x3m pool. Full aircon and funishings. Ready for occupation and rental. Secure estate, private parking. 6km from Heroines monument. Close to PIA, BCS and shops. 081 737 0722.

The Title: Rawai Condo New 2 BR, 1.5 Bath, Building B, 2nd Floor, Sea view, 6.7 million ThB. Sinking fund and first year fees included.

Contact: Teddy 0897727136 (English).

3 & 4 Bed Pool Villas: Laguna / Layan. Luxur y pr ivate pool villas in secure development.

Available now. All beds ensuite.

Fully furnished. Rental programme available. B12-20 million. Contact owner: 085 549 7110.

Beachfront Condo in Cape Panwa: Two floors 282 sq. m of

WALK TO BEACH LUXURY VILLA. California style Luxury living 300 meters from Bang Tao Beach – In small luxury villa compound built to European standards by Swedish developer.

Gated 24 hr security. Management & maintenance on site; Maid, Concierge Services. 3 spacious King bedrooms with en-suites and rainfall showers.

Fully equipped kitchen and laundry.

260 sqm open plan living area; 50 sqm private pool, Jacuzzi. Sold fully furnished and decorated directly by owner. Secure legal ownership: Freehold via BVI company; land lease via off-shore structure. 21.9MB Contact: PEDER BERGGREN, Email: peder.berggren@hotmail.com, Tel: 0923578710, Fax: 076202641

living space with stunning views. 3 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms + Study + large kitchen. Fully furnished.

Communal 40m pool 5 steps away.

Beach 15 steps! 091 876 2330.

Nai Harn Baan Bua: When only the best will do!!!!4 bed/pool villa in Phukets best kept gated community.410 sq.mtr villa.812 sq.mtr land.Overlooking lagoon.Beautiful.Ph: 0812704291. or thailandmls@gmail.com.

Price 22.5 MB.

Home Office Near Thanyapura: New 2-storey home

office near Academy for sale, 280 sq metres, Chanote title, 2 beds 3 baths, nature mountain view. Main street, multiple entrances and exits. 10 minutes to Airport. Only B4.95 million. Call: 086 948 2294.

LUXURY 3 BR IN 4 STAR R E S O R T: 3 b e d r o o m 4

3-storey villa for sale

New 3-storey villa in Phuket for sale.

Glass elevator, pool, ocean view.

700 sqm. Close to Villa Market mall.

Freehold possible. Priced at 13 MB. Contact: Mattias, Call : 090 067 3444 Email: info@progressivephuket.com

bathroom, Land area 580 m2., Spacious living quarter’s feature open plan living & dining areas, a fully equipped, open-concept gourmet kitchen. The Villa comes fully furnished, Contemporary and expansive indoor and outdoor living spaces are offered, private pool.

Services as Restaurant, Gym, Spa ,Maintenance ,Security and Maid.

19.4 MB, oliver@thurmanngroup. com, 087 877 2320.

Land Close to Thanyapura/PIA: Half Rai 1.3MB, 1 Rai is 2.5 MB, total 3 Rai of Land, Mountain View, Chanote, 3 Mins drive to Thanyapura/PIA School, 15 Mins to Airport. Contact Marisa 084 305 6667 or marisar1978@ hotmail.com.

Villa with Pool for Sale: Freehold 3/4 Bedroom Villa. 3 Air Con. 4k. to Ao Makarm Beach. 10x5m pool with 4th bedroom / office on other side. Plot size 104Sq Wah. 416Sqm. Reasonable offers. Call 089 831 4703/084 304 6723.

250m road frontage near Bypass: 16 rai next to Phumundra,

behind Premium Outlet. 250m road frontage, 300m deep. Sloping upwards, starting at 15m and ending at 65m above sea level. 6M/rai. Contact owner direct at 081 893 6630.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 19

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

PROPERTY IN PHUKET

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT. Kamala Boutique Resort:

This boutique resort business which consists of 5 individual villas. The resort is fully occupied presently with long -ter m rentals of fer ing excellent rental income with very little maintenance. The resort land plot totals 2,080 sqm with a built up area of 750 sqm. There are 3 villas, 200 sqm each with 4 bedrooms,3 bathrooms, 1 villa with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom and 1 villa with 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom. Each villa is open plan living & dining area and an open plan western style kitchen. Storage room, office room, air-cons, satellite TV, telephone line and Internet. This is an ideal investment for the nearly retired or retired couple whom wish to enjoy life with a monthly income. There is also a beautiful 20-meter common pool for all residents to enjoy and relax in the beautiful landscaped gardens.

Remote controlled gated security and car parking. 076 279 280.

Hou se on Th e Cor n er for Sale: Quiet location and

only 500m from the main road.

Thepkrasattri, Heroines Monument.

70sqw x 280sqm, 3 bedrooms, 2 b at h r o o m s, b i g li v i n g r o o m with open-plan kitchen (9x9m),1 separated kitchen, carpark for 3 cars and a small storehouse, 2 aircons, cable TV, 1 phone line TT&T. Price: 2.7 MB. including furnitures. Must See! jochenschmitz16@gmail.com, 081 607 8000.

House for Sale - Chalong:

Quiet stand alone villa, 3 bed, 2 - 5 star baths, 5 aircon, full furn, garden dining lush green, 50 Wah, quality new paint, excellent condition, B3.5 million, firm. Contact: peterb@inter globalau.com, 084 843 3492.

MAI KHAO LAND

DIRECT OWNER 5.1 RAI VERY QUIET 1 KLM TON SEA, CAN BUILDING OR INVESTMENT. 2.750000BTHS. THAI; 082-8123486

House for sale in Boat Lagoon: House for sale in Boat

Lagoon. Free hold 2 separated apartments. 6.2 MB., picharly@gmail.com, 087 060 8400.

25 year lease for sale. Well situated in fast developing and sought after area close to Laguna. Some fixed rent applies. Contact 087 884 0644 for more info.

2 Rai, Cherngtalay: Cheapest Seaview land for Sale: Panorama view of sea view

golf course view mountain view land for sale. Near Mission Hills Golf course.

6 rai chanote title. B3 million per rai.

087 675 9555, email: pee_bang56@ hotmail.com.

The Aqua pool villa-sales/ rent: In Land & House Park Phuket

(Manthana Zone) Land area = 440 sqm.

Home area = 300 sqm. 3 bedrooms 4 bathrooms 1 living room and kitchen 1 swimming pool (3m*10m) out door jacuzzi and pavilion Sales: from 1112.8MB. Rent: from 85,000 - 120,000 B/Month. 088 751 2389.

Resort for Sale: Resort 2 rai, with

chanote. 22 double villas with kitchens, large pool and big coconut garden with own well. Restaurant and bar with satellite TV and Adsl. Opened for 15 years, with lots of repeat customers, parking, quiet. 086 940 1860.

Adjacent to Mangosteen Resort, quiet residential area. 3 different sizes: 1-1-86.5 rai - 11.80 MB 2-0-87.5 rai 16.64 MB 3-0-35.5 rai - 22.50 MB Best land and best price in the area. Quick sale, price negotiable.081 536 5846. hajo_von_keller@hotmail.com

Patong Tower for Sale:

And for rent. Sea view and mountain views. Freehold from 64 to 448 sq metres. Phone no: 080 692 6114. Email: orsoreal estate@hotmail.com.

Sea-View Chalong-Residence: Dream pool villa with 5

bedrooms all with ensuite on 1 rai of land. Big hall, office, maid’s room.

Brand-new construction opposite Wat Chalong on the way up to the hill. A huge 685 sq.m of living area, fully furnished. Modern Europeandesigned kitchen. Big sea view pool terraces incl sala and attractive bar area. Security alarm system. Selling price on request. By owner directly.

Call 085 654 4011 or 089 404 0737.

Email: schulz.th@gmx.de.

Comfor table 4 bedrooms villa, plus maid room. Approx. 450Sq.M building, corner plot, energy saving, management ser vice available for investor.Located in secured gate community, near British International school. info@mindproperties.net.

FOR SALE Penthouse in Rawai: 360 panoramic breathtak-

ing views of Chalong Bay, mountain views and Big Buddha. Two bedrooms, 310 sq.m of spacious living area and balconies. Contact Izzy 0862788300 or Danai 090 170 0429.

bungalow style (no stairs) pool villa in a small gated community 1,2km from mission hill golf club 6km to PIA, 3bed 3 1/2 bath, huge living room, large saltwater swimming pool, newly planted garden, 2 car carport, 2 telefon lines, fiberoptic internet, price 12mill./13mill. or 15mill. depending on your needs, picharly@gmail.com, 087 060 8400

House and Business for sale: 3 storey, 5 bedrooms, good

location, off road parking, busy road.

Contact Thai 084 630 6920, English 082 534 7410, jeedyvcd@hotmail.com, davidweath@yahoo.com.

Khao Sok, 25+ rai, B400,000 per rai: 25 rai, 3 ngan in Khao Sok, Klong Sok district. B400,000 per rai. Close to Khao Sok National Park entrance. PNSS3 title, to be upgraded to Chanote soon. Phone 081 693 2759.

@thephuketnews

Sales - down payment 250,000 B D Condo Mine Phuket Town by Sansiri. Finished in March 2014.Corner room on the 7th floor with nice view. 2 Bedrooms Call:089 159 3239.

Sales - D Condo Mine:

Seaview Land For Sale: Land located right in the heart of Chalong with panorama view of Chalong pier.

Close to a number of sandy beaches; Naihan Rawai Kata and Karon.

Easy access to major depar tment stores. Surrounded by public facilities including education institutes and hospitals. You will benefit from a perfect location that's rapidly increasing in value. 3 rai and 1 Ngan with Chanote title. Call 087 278 7206, 089 215 5041 e -mail: kubesjoy@ hotmail.com.

New House for Sales low price than Project, Phanason Villages at Bang Joe for 50 Sqm, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Free contract. Contact: 089 729 9503.

New House for Sales:

A big beautiful house with 7 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, fully furnished. Located in stunning panoramic hilltop scenery in Takuapa, Phang Nga, covering an area of 127 rai. Surrounded by fertile farmland with fruit trees. Price 96MB. Contact K. Peerawat: 08 4 308 8484. Email: peerawat002@hot mail.co.th

6.26 rai direct beachfront, power, water, road, unobstructed views, chanote title, white sand, peaceful.

Only 5.8 mil baht per rai. Doesn't get much better than this! Beautiful beach land. 081 649 3557.

House for sale: Baan Manik area, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, ceiling fans all through out, 2 aic con units, furnished. 2.7MB, no offers. For more info - Farang - 080 323 1918, Thai 081 607 9874.

Patong Apartment Reduced Price: Condo 4 years old. Swimming

Luxury 3 Bed Villa For Sale:

Mai Khao Prime Location Land: I will sell my piece of land next to the new tourist attraction in Mai Khao. Perfect for investment in future like shops, guesthouse. Please email for mobile number and more details. ohmidzi@gmail.com.

PAT O N G c o n d o s f o r sale: Beautiful, modern Condos/

Apartments, furnished, best/quiet locations, garden, s-pool, from 36-67sq metre, sea-city-mountain views, from B2,375. Call 087 819 2162 or caltirol@hotmail.com.

New house for sale: At Siri Village, Pa Khlok, 2 flrs, 3 beds, 2 shower rms, kitchen, living & dining area, garden, car park, 2 aircons, unstair curtains, 1 furnished bedroom.

3.8MB Contact Kirana 088 760 6083.

Pool Villa Rawai: 4 Bedroom/ 4 Bathroom European style single storey house with self contained guest house and pool in Rawai on 736m2 plot. Large master bedroom with en-suite, walk in wardrobe. Modern western style kitchen with granite tops, built-ins throughout. Established 7 years. Plenty of outdoor living area with several verandahs and under cover car park, air-conditioning in all bedrooms and lounge. Situated about 2km from Chalong circle in a quiet lane 1km from Viset Road. House & Guest house 180 sqm Land area 736sqm (184TW). 3 bedrooms Master ensuite, 4 Bathrooms 7x3.5m salt water pool.

Electric gate. Well water. Concrete road access. Call 087 891 9349.

walk to beach, big balcony & sunset view, 180 Sqm, 2 Ensuite Bed rooms, big living space. 089 617 2312, PhuketAREA.com - Search C146.

Beach Land on Koh Yao Yai:

pool, security 24/7, cafeteria. Studio 46sqm fully furnished. Freehold for foreigners. Price: 2.6MLN. Urgent sale, no agent. Tel: 089 728 4005. Email: thamad17@yahoo.com.

Villa and farmland for sale:

Kalim Sea View, Freehold Condo for Sale: 11.9 MB 2 min

Land for Sale: 400m from Naiyang Beach. 3 Rai 1 Tarangwah.

6.5MB per Rai. Call 087 091 8331 or email chiangmaibeltrade@hotmail. com for more information.

D E TA C H E D O R S E M I DETACHED: Large detached 4

Bed.4 Bath 2 en suite, 4 air con. OR 2 adjoining semi-detached. Live in one, Rent one ? Water storage with pumps. Secure Parking. Quite Soi. All in Excellent condition. B3.5M. kimera5@yahoo.com 082 738 3007.

bathroom, Chanote (Freehold), Land area 402.80M2 Living area 208 M2. Luxurious one-storey villa offers privacy and features your own garden and pool to enjoy the ambiance of outdoor tropical living.

Fully furnished, large kitchen with built-in basin, stove, and cabinets.

Private and Peaceful area. 9.9MB. oliver@thurmanngroup.com, Phone 087 877 2320.

Pool Villa Mission Heights: 5 year old fantastic

Price Reduced, 4beds Villa: RAWAI PRIME LAND PLOTS:

3 BR LUX POOLVILL A IN NAIHARN: 3 bedroom 3

This luxury three bedroom home is located in a secure estate with security and office. It is only five minutes from Bangtao Beach and Laguna Phuket including the Laguna Phuket Golf Club and 20 minutes from Blue Canyon Country Club and Phuket International Airport. The villa comes fully furnished with luxury leather lounge suites and quality furniture, all bedding, kitchen utensils and cooking facilities.

For details and inspection, see www. phuketselect.com or contact graham@ phuketselect.com or call 081 897 0225.

3 Bdrm House for sale Thalang: House for sale. 3 bed and

2 baths, large living and dining room, 4 X aircons, 2 X car ports and garage.

House 7 yrs 1 owner , well maintained with 135sqm living area. Land Chanote 92tw. 3.5MB 081 737 3116.

House for sale: Cherngtalay area, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, ceiling fans all through out, 2 air con units, furnished. 2.7MB, no offers. For more info - Farang - 080 323 1918, Thai 081 607 9874.

12 Rai Chanote to sell: One of the last pieces of beautiful sea view land between Ao Makham and Ao Yon Road. Infrastructure done B210 million.

Call 081 917 0377, 10am-5pm.

Luxury Condo Rent / Sale:

Seaview Townhouse Patong: Bet ween the c it y and

the jungle at the northern edge of Patong. 70m alt. 10mn walk to the beach. 4 storey + 290 sqm, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 1 toilet.

4 aircon, partly furnished. Email: andamanhills@gmail.com.

Budget Bungalows:

Two Bungalows in Chalong.2-3 bedrooms.Close to all amenities.

One has room for a pool,the other is like a rain forest. From only 2,300,000 Baht.Ph:0812704291.

Email: thailandmls@gmail.com.

2 B e d r o o m , L- r o o m a n d f u l l y equipped kitchen, 160 -212sqm.

Very high standard with a nice view.

Big balcony, swimming pool, gym.

Location: Kathu, 10 min. Patong Beach, 5 min. Phuket Town and all department stores and international hospitals. Rent Long term: B45,000 – B63,50 0 Buy: B8,50 0,0 0 0 – B11,500,000. Contact 086 268 7901 or send e-mail to: condophuket@ yahoo.com.

20 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

PROPERTY IN PHUKET

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com

PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

ale s t en g r U RAWAI VILLA: BARGAIN PRICE

FREEHOLD - LAGOON VIEW!!!

F. MODERNIZED 1 BEDR. CONDO, ALLAMANDA 1 FOR SALE BY OWNER. EUROPEAN KITCHEN, GRANITE/MARBLE BATH, DOUBLE SINKS, FURNISHED, INCL.2 GOLF MEMBERSHIPS. INFO & PRICE : E-MAIL : ORNILS@SBG.AT

Spacious property in 1,000sqm garden. Private 9x4m pool. Three large beds, all a/c and en suite. Big Western kitchen. Plus guest house. Furnished.

Private access. Price cut for quick sale.

MB12.9. Call 087 273 0141, alangath@ gmail.com

Modern Family House for sale: Beautiful 3 bedrooms villa in Rawai. 160sqm indoor. 400sqm outdoor. Shared swimming pool. Modern villa renovated in 2011-2012. Fully furnished. For more info: phuketvilla jasmine@gmail.com

Highfield Mission Hills Phuket: 10-terraced hilltop Building Plots. Fantastic sea & mountain view. New road - water - electricity.

Only 10 minutes to Airport & Tesco Lotus. 2.5m-4.5 Baht. 087 978 5803-4 / stanjsmith25@yahoo.com

Lu xu r i o u s G o l f V i l l a @ Laguna Village: MUST BE SOLD

Reduced by 600,000B. ONLY 16.9MB.

Sea View Land for Sale: Seaview 1 BDRM New Condo Patong: Stunning seaview,

city view 1 bdrm condo on hill 500m from Patong beach. Fitness centre, roof top pool, security, car park, freehold. Only B4,400,000. Keith 084 628 3430, keithb025@gmail.com.

Sea View Land for Sale:

Ao Makham. 5.5 rai, B10 million per rai.

Contact Siriporn 089 649 9939, email: siri_phuket@changrunner.com.

! Surplus to family invest needs. 3-bed, plus maid's qtrs. This home has been lovingly cared for. Leasehold/freehold.

BVI status. POA. Ph 082 810 4184, phuketres@gmail.com

HIGHEND CONDO PHUKET

DUE TO DIVORCE SETTLEMENT, PA R T I N G W I T H M Y A M A Z I N G SE AVIEW STUDIO WITH UNBELIEVABLE VIEW. DESPERATE, CASH PRICE OFFER AVAILABLE. UNIT IN PHUKET’S MOST HIGHLY ANTICIPATED HIGHEND DEVELOPMENT. SERIOUS OFFERS CALL 081-8928788, 081-891-4086

Ao-Yon, 13.5 rai, chanode title.10m/ rai.Call Siri 089 649 9939, email: siri_phuket@changrunner.com.

House for sale near Central

Town house in Chanakarn houses estate. Walking distance to Central Phuket Town. 32 Sq wa. Fully furnished, air cons every room. Wooden floor,Thai/Western kitchens. Call Issarapan or A: 081 535 4839.

Beautiful Naiharn Pool Villa:

1.5 Rai Private Land Cape Yamu: 1.5 Rai flat land at Cape

RPM Owner Direct Unique luxury condo 2 bed, 2 bath, 155sqm. Foreign FREE HOLD. Recent architect remodel. New Jacuzzi. Views to lake, mountain, marina, pool etc.

Completely furnished to very high standard. Motivated owner leaving.

Contact Brian (Owner) 089 054 4354, +632 906 435 7146, Alan 087 999 6174, bggvirgo@gmail.com.

See RoyalPhuketMarinaCondos.com for complete details.

New Luxury Villa For Sale:

3 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, living room, kitchen, private swimming pool (12 metre). House area of 600 sq.m., land 1.5 rai (2400 sq metre). Located on the shore of the ocean on the Koh Kho Khao, Phang-nga. larion2555@ gmail.com. 084 226 4574.

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

SeaView near Airport: 4 plots (3 connecting, 1 separate) 1km north of Airport, along the road to MaiKhao Beach. Sea view towards south east.

NorSor3Gor. 4.5 Rai in total. B4 million per Rai. Contact owner: 081 893 6630.

Yamu. 2 x 0.75 Rai adjoining plots.

OrBorTor road access to quiet end of soi location. Sale direct from the owner.

B3.75 Million per rai negotiable. Call 081 087 9237.

Hot Price Sale- PuriAnda Villas: New Pool Villa in Rawai

2 Bed/3 Bath, Built-In & Partial fur.

Private pool & jacuzzi, sala, 50 0 m.to beach Price 7.9 mil.Baht with Chanote title Tel.081 691 3029, E: kris. silanachai@yahoo.com.

Secure private hillside by Naiharn Beach. Quality furnished throughout. 3 big bedrooms, office, 4 baths, 230 sm plus carport etc. 1050 sm land. New condition. 15x4.6 m pool. Freehold.

Nice. Only 17.5MB. Contact 089 727 5407, villa-sale-phuket.com.

Free Hold Condo For Sale:

43 Sq. Free hold. 1 balcony (Great view). 1 bed room. 1 living room.

2 air conditioners. Full furniture.

Internet.Swimming pool. Gym. Automated door lock and key card.

Call 080 040 9077.

Investment Proper t y for sale!: New, modern waterfront town-

home at the Boat Lagoon for sale.

Rented out long term at B570,000 per year. 3 bed/4 bath, 2 balconies, terrace at canal, 6 m berth in front of house.

250 sqm living space. Top condition.

Luxury finishings. Brokers welcome.

B9.9 million. 086 747 9292 (English) or 081 970 5204 (Thai/English).

Apartment on Golf Course: 3 Bedroom Pool Villa, Rawai:

Donsak Beachfront Land 3 Rai: 67 metres absolute beach

frontage, fully infrastructured, ready to build. Close to ferry going to Koh Samui. Chanote title. 4.5 MB for all. Email: nhoj0512@hotmail.com.

160m2 Private Pool Villa. 3 Bedroom, 4 Bathroom (3 En Suite), Kitchen, Dining Room, Living Room, Large Balconies & Terrace, Carport. Freehold, Chanote title. 2 minutes from beach! See proper tyforsalephuket.co.uk.

Royal Kamala Condo-Sale & Rent: In Kamala. Freehold 1, 2, 3 Bedroom apartment with kitchen, living room, balcony, swimming pool, fitness, security guard, parking. Ready to move. 085-368-3009, salesdirector@ royalkamala.com

Golf View, Kathu. Tastefully renovated large (83m2) apartment in Phuket Country Club. Golf view. 1 bed but easily converted to 2. Store, large Western kitchen and all furniture included. Ideal (holiday) home.

Contact 081 273 7326, Email: keith marshall747@gmail.com.

NEW House For Sale

Serenity near the Beach, Chumpon: 210 sq.M contempo-

Sea-View Contemporary Pool Villla: Located near Phuket

Land area 500m2, House area 164m2. 3 bed, 4 bath, fully furnished, aircon in all rooms, fans, Internet, satellite TV, swimming pool, independent water supply wells. Finish work December 2012. B8.5 million. Call 088 838 3242.

Mission Heights:

town. L and: 8 5 5 sq.m. H ouse: 650sq.m. Furnished. 3 beds, 2 offices, 2 staff quarters, 1 free room. 2 Parkings. Price B38 mill.Tel: 081 895 3628 E-mail: jin_koy@yahoo.com.

Furnished House for Sale Phuket Villa 5: 3 bedroom

furnished house near Kajonkiet School. Secure area, Cul De Sac. Nic e gardens, t wo bathrooms.

B3.5M negotiable. Call 081 370 8114 (Thai) 087 889 3838 (Eng), email:davidgem98@hotmail.com.

206.4 sqm, Chanote title in Phanason residence(next to Makro). 1 min to Central festival, 5 min to town. Call 084 061 4314, 076 393 965.

Land for sale:

Happy Home Apartment for sale: Nice apartment, fully

furnished at Rawai. The apar tment is set in a private compound with pool. It is located only 5 minutes from beach and convenient to Phuket Town. Only B15 million.

Tel: 081 893 2165 www.happyho meapartmentphuket.webiz.co.th.

Luxury brand new villa, fully furnished and ready to move in, 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms with infinity 10 metre long swimming pool and truly beautiful sea view. Located in a small development, only 50 metres from the sea and 3 mins from Ao Po Grand Marina. For sale B19.9 million or for long term rent B150,000 per month. Call 081 343 0777, email: montha_phuket@ yahoo.com.

Spac ious one bed room apar tment with ocean view, nor th of Patong. Floor area 96m2 internal and 72m2 terrace including water feature with sala and jacuz zi. Per fect bachelor pad with rental income. Email for info: bart duykers@mac.com.

For sale:

Reduced for Quick Sale:

Studio condo at The Point near Lotus, Big C, Central. Fully furnished. Great views 6th floor. Cost B2.8M. Reduced to B2.25M. Call 087 889 3838 or 081 370 8114.

Email: davidgem98@hotmail.com

rary 2 story house, pool. 400 M. to ThungWualen. Situated in a green belt of jungle,palm plantations, 10 mins walk to the beach No traf fic jams. Chanote title. Total 2648 sq.M., Contact: chitsamon@hotmail.com, Tel: 083- 391 4405. Price: 10.9MB.

Beaut iful L and L aguna Cher ngt alay: Chanote t it le,

Land for Sale Cherngtalay:

Beautiful 2,400sqm (1.5RAI) Chanote titled land plot in Pasak 8, located on the highest point of a gentle slope.

Quiet and safe area. Only 8.5MB. Agents welcome. Phuketlandvilla@ hotmail.com, 089 875 9609.

Ocean Front Villa for Sale:

2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom with Off street parking in small QUIET Boutique Estate behind Red Mountain Golf Course.

Full Chanote Title Contact Gim English/Thai Ph 081-6065772 for an Inspection !!

yellow zoned, save area. Nearly 4 rai, direct from owner. Subdivided i n 6 p l o t s e a c h c a . 1, 0 0 0 s q m . ready to build. Only 7.5 MB per rai.

K hun Chanc hira, 0 81 3 67 76 8 3. chanchira.panpaen@googlemail.com.

Condo At The Heights, Kata: Immaculate 2-bed foreign-

freehold unit in award-winning project. 195 sqm, sea view, near gym & pool. Quality furnishing throughout.

Designer kitchen with utility-store. phuket.pn@gmail.com.

Pool villa for sale or rent:

Hillside setting. Luxurious 6 bedroom, 5 bathroom pool villa for sale or rent.

Sale 20M Baht. Rent Low season Daily 6k, Weekly 36k, Monthly 80k. High season Daily 7k, Weekly 42k, Monthly 100k. One complete year 85k per month. Call 087 078 6379.

Absolute Beachfront:Set on the beachfront, the ff villa offers uninterrupted sea and island views of the south east coast of Phuket.

Situated between two 5 star resorts: Vijitt and EVASON near Laem Kanoi. 081 480 3834, http://www. facebook.com/Phuket.Beachfront.

Beautiful Karon Villa: Stunning,

safe, secure estate villa , close to beach, crystal clear salt water pool 3 large bedrooms, modern open living, fully furnished, freehold, everything done – enjoy the lifestyle. Phone 081 719 4688 Email : elbej@hotmail.com

Rawai Beachfront Pool Villa for Rent/Sale: Rawai Beach

front pool villa for sale. 3 bedrooms, furnished. Contact Siriporn on 089 649 9939.

Absolute Beach Front Land: Songkla district near new

deep sea port. 4.5 Rai divided into 7 Chanote plots. Reluctant sale.

B4.9M the lot. Email: jmic chia@ yahoo.com or call 087 276 0529.

Laguna/Layan Beach Luxury 13M Salt-Water Pool Villa For Sale (Or Rent): Three large

bedrooms with bathrooms in tastefully re-decorated bungalow set in mature garden plot of 550m2 within secure development for ownership and/or investment. B15.5 million. Email: irynain@gmail.com.

Condominium for SALE in Patong: Freehold title, Studio type,

32 sqm. of the living area, Furnished, 1 Bathroom, Fitted kitchen with dining area, Swimming pool, Restaurant. Call 083 103 3801 (English and Thai).

thephuketnews

CLASSIFIEDS 21

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

PROPERTY IN PHUKET

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com

PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT. SEA VIEW LAND CHALONG

Stunning view, 3420 Sqm. Chanote-Title, access Road, electricity, close to all services. Visit www. phuketsaleland.com or contact batfro64@gmail.com

Seaview Condo For Sale/ R e n t : R a w a i S e av i e w c o n d o, Orchid Garden Resort For Sale: 18 Bungalows, 2Rai, 15MT

Pool, Office, Restaurant, Bar, Laundry Room, Sauna, Exterior Shower ans bath, fish pond, 2story, 3bd, 2bath, remodeled main house. 3 meter walls, security ststem, cable, satellite and internet, parking and in a lush garden setting. Annual turnover 5.5 MB. The sales price is 25.5MB. Land valued at 23.3MB. Located on a street with homes priced up to 50MB. Reason for sale, owner retiring. Email : jbs@ hammerintl.com, Phone : 087 275 1700

Luxurious,Furnished. Foreign free hold.120 sqm 2 beds 2 baths. Rent 2000 baht per night. Long term 45k / month. Sale only 6.5 MB. Call: 090 408 3800, Email: adrian_troy@yahoo.com

3-storey apartment on the beach 3-storey apartment with a penthouse and sala for sale. Only 100 m from Phuket’s top-rated Nai-Harn Beach.

220 sqm. Freehold possible. Priced at 9 MB. Please call Alexander 080 521 0736.

Beautiful Karon Villa: Modern open living villa has it all, fully furnished, private secure estate close to beach. Enjoy the private salt water pool and undercover parking, 3 large bedrooms freehold investment. 081 719 4688.

2 Pool Villas next to PIA:

Rawai Great Buying: Lovely

house with 2 bedrooms or separate SC flat downstairs.Well ventilated with natural light in pristine condition.Distant sea views.4,995,000 Baht. Warren Crowe 081 270 4291 or thailandmls@gmail.com.

Family resort for sale.:

Land For Sale: Mission Hills. 3/4 of rai in small community, very quiet and private, close to all services, 10 min to school, airport, beach, golf, Tesco. B2.5M. 087 276 0529 for info.

Chalong Beach Front Pool Villa: Chalong Beach Front Pool World Class Sea Views: 4 Bedroom British Colonial style house, Cape Yamu, Phuket. Amazing views spanning over 100km, as far as Krabi. Price reduced from B35 to B28 million. 086 279 6283, email: kdesmond59@yahoo.co.uk.

Beautiful lakeview family resort in quiet area.4 apartments with each 2 bedrooms fully furnished, land include 1600sqm, company and license include, swimmingp ool, 2 garage, automatic gate and very private estate.More details please c o nt ac t 0 8 8 3 912 2 6 5 (Engli sh speaking). krisverstricht@hotmail. com.

Paklok, Chanote, Mountain View, 200m from main road, 11 km from monument and 4 km to Mission Hill.

Interested or want a larger size?

CALL 084 305 6667, email: mari sar1978@hotmail.com

Superb Ocean View Lux Penthouse: B148,000 per sqm,

R AWAI VILLA: BARGAIN PR I CE Spacious proper ty in 1,000sqm garden. Private 9x4m pool.

Three large beds, all a/c and en suite.

Big Western kitchen. Plus guest house.

Furnished. Private access. Price cut for quick sale. 13,500,000, alangath@ gmail.com, 087 273 0141.

Ocean Front Land: 7 rai with 185 metres of sea frontage. Water, electricity, road and boat access, located 800 metres from Yacht Haven marina, perfect site for small beach front development. For quick sale only B5 million per rai. Tel 081 343 0777 Email: montha_phuket@ yahoo.com.

INEXPENSIVE LAND PLOTS: Very Spacious European From Owner: Villa in peaceA spacious family home in Boat Lagoon. Modern contemporary style with 4+1 beds, 4 bathrooms. Large dining area, private swimming pool and fully furnished. Size 616 Sq.M. Call 076 238 948.

ful place in Rawai. Large living area and terrace. 3 bedrooms, 4 aircon, 3 bathrooms, 1 guest toilet.

Western kitchen, garage, laundry, beautiful garden, swimming pool.

612 sqm plot, chanote title. Price B9.5 million. Contact Tanya 083 506 8345, geta909@gmail.com.

LUXURY 5 BED HOUSE IN LAGUNA Wonderful 5 bed house over looking the lake & Golf course in Laguna.

Sale: Reduced to: 28.7 MB Rent: 180,000 P/M. Call Mick: 0848186045 Email: mr.mickb@yahoo.com or www.hoteldealsphuket.com/realestatephuket

@thephuketnews

Hill Land for Sale: Very nice location hill land by the Bangwat Dam, total 60 rai, 96,000 square metre. Contact: Attapong 081 892 0610 (Thai), Jantiwa 081 890 8268 (Eng). e-mail: jantiwa_ j@ hotmail.com.

288 sqm of heaven. Plunge pool, 3 bed, 4 bath overlooking perfect panoramic ocean views. Beach shops, fabulous restaurants, nightlife all a 3 minute walk. B42,624,000. Contact: 088 761 4030 or imgphuket@gmail.com.

Land for sale near Loch Palm At the back of the Loch Palm Golf Course, approx 510m2, partial view on the golf course. Part of a small gated community of 2 villas (+ 2 to be built soon). Next to small lake and it is guaranteed that no building can block the view, ever! It comes with a Chanote title and if buyer are interesting, we would provide complete house plans for free.

Asking price is THB 6M, negotiable.

Contact 087-2664583 (English/French) or 082-4406884 (Thai).

Seaview Thai house for sale Nice and peacefully area surrounding with Seaview of Andaman. The back yard is the Mountian of Koa Pra Teaw National Park View.with great sunrise and next to the Aor Por Marina, The Air Park, The pier to Koh Yao. Contact: thureewan@gmail.com, Tel: 088 752 4532

Must see! Great 4bd villa:

back of Mangosteen hotel. Very good access , road, electric, water. Size approximately 30 by 70 meters. Chanote.

Contact 087 897 0501.

Modern Villa in Marina:

Ready to move in, villa 1 on 1,100 sqm. land, for sale B15.9 mil and villa 2 on 2,20 0 sqm. land, for sale B19.9 mil. Brand new, each with 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 12 metre swimming pool, guest bungalow with 1 bedroom 1 bathroom. Perfectly located in a development with underground e l e c t r i c i t y a n d s e c u r i t y, o n l y 8 0 0 metres from Mission Hills golf course, less than 10 mins to airpor t, Phuket International Ac ademy and Ao Por Grand Marina. Call 081 343 0777. Email: montha_phuket@yahoo.com.

2 Plots of land for sale in Mission Heights. 900 Square meters 1.5 MB. and 1,050 Square meters 1.75 MB. Gated community, ready to be built. picharly@gmail.com, Phone 087 060 8400.

Villa For Sale/Rent,3 bed rooms,area 1 rai call Siriporn 089 649 9939,email: siri_phuket @changrunner.com.

Paklok Land Only B7,999/ Sqwah: Only B7,999/Sq wah at

2,200 Land, Nai Harn -12,9 min: Located in Sai Yaun 9, at the

Land for sale Mission Heights:

Truly exceptional 4 bd villa on the 1900 sqm land, surrounded by jungle.

10x5 m pool must see! 10 min drive to Tanyapura and to Naithon Beach.

Great lovely home for large families!

084 060 7050, molokophuket.com/ buy/1999-east-residential-for-sale. info@molokophuket.com.

Inexpensive land plots on East coast of Phuket for sale, 0.3 - 5 rai, some with a sea view (Bang Pae, Pa Klok, Yamu Hills). Direct sale by owner. 095 068 1672, 080 271 6484.

Yacht View Freehold RPM Condo: Gorgeous Yacht Views Nai Harn Pool Villa For Sale: land area 336 sqm land,158 sqm interior floor, fully fitted Western kitchen, 2 bedrooms, 2 toilet/shower, 9x3 m pool, tropical fruit garden, chanote title, modern open design, fully furnished, 50 inch TV. B7,950,000, vankets@ gmail.com, 085 473 7812 .

from Living, Dining, Master & Ferrari Sail Covered Patio. 2Bed 2Bath 194sqm 19.9MB Best views in Royal Phuket Marina Tel 0848519795 or 084 308 3113 A2554@icloud.com. youtu.be/7LqM7maWNgQ.

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Phuket Country Club Condos: 3 Only Luxury Contemporary

Freehold Condo For Sale: 45 Sq.m Freehold. 2 balconies (great view). 1 bedroom. 1 livingroom. 2 air conditioners. Full furniture. Internet.

Cable TV. Laundry. Fresh market.

Swimming pool. Gym. Restaurant.

Call 080 040 9077.

Condos, 1 per floor C/W lift. Located on the 15th fairway 275 M3 per floor total.Common Pool and Sundeck.

Underground parking 1/unit, Floor 3 show unit complete Floors 1&2 are unfinished, waiting for owners choice of flooring and kitchens. Could still develop into one very large private home. Floors 1&2 could be offices star ting from B10 million. Or B32 million for project Partial financing available. Info contact 084 840 1262, north8east98@yahoo.com

TechWorX Retrofit Great Investment Opportunity: Completed show house and infrastructure seven further plots for development. 1.5km from Mission Hills Golf Club. Please call 087 888 1761 (Aom) for details.

Smart phone or pad controlled Multiroom Audio-Visual, Home Theatre, Lighting control, CCTV and intruder alarm systems retrofitted to buildings use the latest wireless technologies. Please email for info package. info@techworx.asia

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HEALTH SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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classifieds@thephuketnews.com

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ADVERTISE HERE

MARINE SERVICES

STORAGE

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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MARINE SERVICES

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REMOVALS

ADVERTISE HERE

Specialized in large commercial and small residential cooling & heating systems.

076 319406-8 086 4702026-7 www.choochuay.com

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FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Jobs

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/thephuketnews

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @thephuketnews

MARKETING AND SALES. Personal assistant and sales representatives for led-light business in Chalong. Looking for energetic and easy going thai persons to contact VIP customers in a fast growing business. Good english and computer skills required. Salary + high commissions. Contact: Francisco de Miguel, Email: boost@aboranet. com, Call: 0811394774

Russian staff needed Phuket-based company is looking for a Russian national with good command of English (and preferably Thai) language. Full time employment in line with Thai laws (non-b visa, WP). Salary starts from 30,000 THB. Please send CV and photo to opaopa543@mail.ru

Class Act Media is southern Thailand's most comprehensive media company, incorporating Phuket’s leading English newspaper ‘The Phuket News’, Russian language newspaper 'Novosti Phuketa', Phuket’s leading English radio station ‘Live 89.5’, Phuket English TV 'Phuket News TV' and a host of publications & services including ‘The Phuket Colouring book’ & ‘Phuket Ticket Master’.

SALES REPRESENTATIVES

RECEPTIONIST & FLOOR SUPERVISOR Sanctuary is a cool,funky & unique beach resort on Koh Pha Ngan island.

Great jobs for experienced receptionist & restaurant floor supervisor & cocktail bar person ( Thai National only) Contct Email: relax@thesanctuarythailand. com, Tel: 082 171 3614

Qualifications: ● Thai or Expat. ● Excellent communication and negotiation skills in Thai and English. ● Highly motivated self-starter with a positive attitude. ● Works well under pressure and has a will to succeed.

We offer: ● Competitive salary, bonuses and travel expenses. ● A friendly work environment.

Business Development Executive

FREELANCE WEB / SEO / EDITING Do you require up-dates/SEO to your site, blog or Open Cart? Also: s-engine/RSS/Blog submissions - PDF/ Photo flip shows - Web Photo Video’s etc. Email: mr.m.hopkins@gmail.com.

● Social security paid by the company.

We are searching for Thai nationals to fill our position as Area Business Development Executive to manage our list of customers in Phuket, Krabi and Khao Lak. Applicants should be fluent in English and have previous sales experience in Horeca. Must own a vehicle for business travel within the region. Email:hr@pin naclegastro.com

● Excellent career progress opportunities.

For more information, call K. Mod on 076 612 550 ext. 101, or email hr@classactmedia.co.th To apply online, visit thephuketnews.com/job.php

Class Act Media Co., Ltd.

99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 Fax: 076 612 553

Class Act Media is southern Thailand's most comprehensive media company, incorporating Phuket’s leading English newspaper ‘The Phuket News’, Russian language newspaper 'Novosti Phuketa', Phuket’s leading English radio station ‘Live 89.5’, Phuket English TV 'Phuket News TV' and a host of publications & services including ‘The Phuket Colouring book’ & ‘Phuket Ticket Master’.

MANAGING EDITOR, THE PHUKET NEWS Responsibilities: 

Class Act Media seeks a Managing Editor to head up The Phuket News, a weekly English-language newspaper for southern Thailand. The position is based in Phuket.  This role would suit someone with a strong editing, writing, and management background, preferably in newspapers though those with magazine experience will also be considered.  You will be managing a multinational team of 12, which includes editors, reporters, and graphic designers, and overseeing other company publications as well as The Phuket News.  Ideally, candidates should have first-hand knowledge of Thailand and its current affairs, culture and politics, but applicants with a strong connection to Asia are also welcome to apply.

We offer: 

A friendly work environment, 5 day work week (8.30am-6pm), competitive salary, local health insurance, work-related travel expenses, time in lieu for overtime, and the chance to live and experience a great part of the world, while furthering your career.

The position is open to both foreign and Thai nationals, but you must be a native English speaker. For foreigners, a work permit and visa will be provided.

To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter to Managing Director Simon Samaan at md@classactmedia.co.th

Class Act Media Co., Ltd. 99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 Fax: 076 612 553 @thephuketnews

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Buy&Sell

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/thephuketnews

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BOATS & YACHTS

SELLING YOUR BOAT? With high season just around the corner, now is the right time to get her listed, Boatshedphuket.com are always looking for new listings,big or small, power or sail, contact Alan Giles. 084 842 6146.

Boat Sales and Charters: Want to build or charter your own boat to get out among Phuket’s many islands for fishing or pleasure? Then please contact the experts on 081 270 4291 or go to www. fishingboatingthailand.com.

Bertram 505 Conver for sale Crownline 320 LS 50 kts B o w r i d : Ve r y f a s t - n i c e s p o r t boat,2x350 MPI engines, year 2009, like new, lifetime hull warantty, only 100 working engine hours, Thai flag, tax payed. Only 3M THB, Airberth 0,5 M THB seperately. yacht@elas.si.

Launched in 1989 this long range sport fishing vessel is powered by 2 Hino Marine 360hp V8 Turbo . The interior is fully air-conditioned and features a saloon, three cabins and a galley.

Price : 7,000,000 THB , Stefano, info@ thebigblues.com, 087 834 5293 .

TechWorX Marine.

Service and install of Smart phone or pad controlled Marine AV and IT, Media servers systems. External antenna 3G/4G internet systems. Reliable onboard Wi-Fi. Phuket and Bangkok.

Please email for info package. info@ techworx.asia

Reduced

2008 Azimut 47 - EUR 499,000

B O AT & C A R F O R SALE!!: Boat: Swedish imported Buster XL maid by aluminum 2 scow, Suzuki 4 stroke outboard Engine used only 200hrs, Brenderup-trailer + wakeboard + all needed accessories. Car: Mitsubishi Triton 4 wheel, only 6 years old. Boat and Car sells as a package or separate. For more information please contact: 087-8772320 or E-mail: oliver@ thurmanngroup.com, B1,350,000.

40FT Steel Cutter Sloop: Ready to cruise.Centrecockpit. Safe, strong German design.New Sails, 44HP Yanmar Engine, 6 Berths, solar, wind generator, BBQ, dinghy&outboard.

AUD$90K. 085 3780 498, yacht.an taia@gmail.com.

2011 Princess 42 - USD 650,000

Kawasaki 750Sxi Jet Ski Pro Stand up. Trick conversion kit, R&D ride plate, Race bars with finger throttle, Hydro-turf floor mat with foot-holds, Very reliable, fast, and great fun. Very good condition. B150,000. Contact: garysmith436@btinternet.com.

2013 Lagoon 400S2 EUR 357,000

2012 Fusion 40 - EUR 345,000

N E W S E A L I N ES AVA I LABLE: Orders are now open for the new range of Sealine Sports and Flybridge, both 380 and 450. For details of this exciting new range Contact: inq@ sea-yss.com - www.sea-yss.com - 081 370 1995.

13 Metre Wooden Hull Cruiser: Cap. 17 PAX. Wooden

SPEEDBOAT FOR SALE: SEATBOAT 369 sale. Year 2009, engines 2x225 hp, capacity 22 passengers, great condition, ready to run, 2 stern exits, bathroom, shower, set of new options (coach, tent anto-staining), all documents.

Priced at 1.9 MB, negotiable. Call Andrey 085 368 5908.

hull, 3.5 metres W, draws 1.5 meters, diesel engine generates 123 KW. Perfect for fishing or day tours. Fitted w Fish Finder and GPS. Was B1,500,000 now only B500,000. Call 082 414 6931, email: phil@krabikon nect.com.

2 2 m . I n d o n e s i a n Pi n i s i Ketch: Licensed and registered in Yacht sale 36-ft Searay A very good condition with bedding for 5, air-con, generator, kitchenette, BBQ grill, twin propulsion, Mercruiser 5.0L bravo III DTS, raymarine chartplotter, GPS and depth sounder. B4.5 million.

Call 089 647 5204.

Thailand. She is in good condition and currently working as a snorkel and sunset tour boat. For sale or long-term rental. Price negotiable for quick sale. dragonheartthailand@gmail.com.

2009 POWER CATAMARAN LIV Aboard For Sale Compressors and tanks also available.

Please contact Joe : 087 891 8912 joe@similan-diving-safaris.com.

45ft. 4 cabins. Volvo D- 4 IPS 300.

Genset. Aircon. “Bose” surround. Raymarine. Low hours. Fully loaded. Fast and economical. As new. Bargain. Only 339,000 euros. Email: eddyelan@yahoo.com 089 971 0278, Eddie.

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CLASSIFIEDS 25

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

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BUY & SELL IN PHUKET

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com BUSINESS FOR SALE

COMPANY FOR SALE

Company for sale - Owner retiring Well known 12 year established company specializing in sales and rental of containers, site/sales offices, Porta Loos as well as Self Storage. Customer base includes Tesco Lotus, Laguna, Marriot, Boat Lagoon and many more. Enormous potential for expansion and export. A conservative value of company assets exceed 11MB which is included in the sale price of 14MB. Call Gordon 081 892 4804, www. safewayasia.com.

Restaurant for Sale Urgent!

Seafood European and Thai food in Patong close to beach and main shopping Jungceylon. First class equipment included pizza oven.

Main road location, 350 sqm. Good lease cheap rent. Owner health problem must sell URGENT . Only 8 MB! kingcable_aaa@hotmail.com 0870 368 551.

Business for sale Business only or business and property. Est 2003. Repeat business from big data base, non-tourist related soft furnising manufacturing and retail business. Genuine enquires only, no tyre kickers.

Luxury Yacht for Sale For sale 20 02 Ber tram 510 Fly bridge luxury yacht. Reduced to only USD675,000. Contact Marcus on marcus@leema rine.net.

A steal for a quick sale:

2007 Italian demo yacht Cranchi 47ft Hard Top. Fully loaded with Tropical air con, genset, Electrical winches, garage, roof, Raymarine Premium Navy, BBQ, Ice Maker, 3 Fridges, “Bose” Sound, 2007 Italian demo yacht Cranchi 47ft Hard Top. Fully loaded with Tropical air con, genset, Electrical winches, garage, roof, Raymarine Premium Navy, BBQ, Ice Maker, 3 Fridges, “Bose” Sound, Neon light, Twin 570HP with reliable shaf t drive, under 300 hours, Brand New Condition.

Euro 335,000. Tel: 089 971 0278, eddyelan@yahoo.com.

For further info email samos1941@gmail.com.

Thai/ Western restaurant (seats 60+) with fully-equipped kitchen and bakery (air-con, coffee machine etc), TV, car parking and 3 double bedrooms (2 ensuite). Great opportunity in growth area of Cherngtalay (near Laguna). Only 3.5MB, Contact: neilmcgregor1@sky. com, Call: +66 80 719 7390.

Very reliably & friendly car, carefully used for last 3 years. Good condition with some wears. Clean interior, good car audio, fresh tires. Best choice for young family. Honda ser viced only. Igor, Chalong, B28 0,0 0 0, 0 8 3 102 0070.

CAR FOR SALE

NEW ZODIAC 420 YACHTLINE SPECIAL OFFER FROM MA X MARINE ASIA – A great sporty RIB, designed as a tender/people carrier for a larger vessel of approximately 70 feet. A smooth, fast ride guaranteed from the world’s most famous inflatable boat brand.

-Hypalon tubes -Honda 50hp EFI 4 Stroke outboard -Boat cover FOR SALE AT 750,000 THB Contact Craig Murphy on 081-970-0583 Or, Paul Stamp on 08-40 60 70 20 www.maxmarine.asia.

HONDA CITY '03 1.5AT, 118XXXkm

Restaurant/ Bakery for Sale

Bar / Guest House for sale Speed Boat For Sale Steppa Fiberglass 32 feet Flybridge two 200 hp Yamaha outboard engines.

Ideal for diving and tours. B850,000.

Call 081 894 2124.

Sports Bar and 9 Bedroom Guesthouse in popular location of Karon Beach for Sale or Rent. Kitchen and working laundry included. For information contact, Thai: 085 795 0875 or Eng: 087 884 1857.

PEUG EOT 2 07 f o r sa l e:

Nissan Teana Finance available. 11 months old. 2.5l.

Full Options. Contact: Bernard, Call: 086 945 2626

2008 Peugeot 207cc, 33k kilometers, 1 owner, per fect c ondition, leather seats, Convertible, B940,000.

080 523 8819.

S I N G A P O R E | P H U K E T | B A N G K O K | P A T TA Y A | K O H S A M U I | P E N A N G | J A K A R TA

(negotiable)

Charter: Rico Stapel rico@princessyachtsthailand.com call: +66 8 6690 0444 Го в о р и м п о - р у с с к и : А л ё н а В и х а р е в а alyona@princessyachtsthailand.com call: +66 898 74 9944 Sales: Alister Brunskill alister@princessyachtssea.com mobile: +66 8 0886 4945

SAIL I POWER @thephuketnews

NEW I PRE-OWNED

I N F O @ P R I N C E S S YA C H T S S E A . C O M /PrincessYachtsSEA

@princess_s_e_a

/PrincessYachtsSEA

|

W W W. P R I N C E S S YA C H T S S E A . C O M

/+PrincessYachtsSEA

/princess-yachts-south-east-asia

/user/PrincessYachtsSEA

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BUY & SELL IN PHUKET

CATERING EQUIPMENT

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com

LOST & FOUND

SERVICES

TRADE SERVICES

GAS B.B.Q clearance sale The B.B.Q Center. GAS B.B.Q clearance sale cheapest in Thailand. All models only 19,000 Baht. Call Khun Thip: 076 366 860, 081 597 5568

CLUBS & MEMBERSHIPS New in Phuket

BACKGAMMON 086 951 5511,

Stolen HUBLOT Watch REWARD !

During a house burglary in Surin Beach Phuket area was stolen a HUBLOT bracelet watch in pink gold. REWARD THB 100,000 to anyone who can provide tips so the watch is returned.

Contact : johan@vertigophuket.com, Call: 083 2809100

MOVING & STORAGE

CALLING THE DOG LOVERS OF PHUKET

Total Web Solutions: Need a professional SEO website customised for your business needs? A website that you can manage, control & update.

To make a difference with your website contact Blueswell.net. websolutions@ blueswell.net, 081 091 9282.

TechWorX Residential.

Smar t home automation systems.

Smart phone or pad control, Multi-room audio-visual, Home Theater, Lighting control and Electrical systems for new and renovation projects. Please email for info package. info@techworx.asia

Soi Dog are looking for dog lovers in Phuket to come and spend time with our 300+ street dogs in residence at our shelter in Mai Khao, North Phuket.

We need volunteers to help socialise and walk our dogs - as this is fundamental in preparing our lovely dogs for adoption in Phuket and around the world. Whether you can spare one day a week or can come every day, we would love to have you help our dogs. Volunteering at Soi Dog is an amazing experience and may well change your life. For more details, please email Diana at volunteering@soidog-foundation.org

tonivanLaak@hotmail.com

COMMUNITY

We Sell Boxes & Moving Supplies: At MY STORAGE

Self Storage you can buy quality moving and packing supplies like individual boxes, bubble wrap, packing tapes & knives plus secure padlocks. We also help you to move and store. Call 076 292 909.

PERSONAL SERVICES

JEWELLERY / WATCHES A Unique Thai Cooking Class Are you looking for original Thai Style of Cooking? Relaxed & Intimate beach front class at Blue Bar Layan Beach.

Available ever yday and star t time flexible. Promotion at 1,500 B per person includes transfer & ingredients(3 dishes). Call 081-7288269,psupparin@ gmail.com

Breitling Crosswind 18K Gold Breitling Crosswind Chronograph - 40 Diamonds - 43mm 18k Yellow Gold - Reference: K13355 
nr: 1677. PreOwned - Purchased October 2004 from authorized Breitling dealer. Call 090 901 3601 etc.

GENNEWA GOLD MEMBERS

Attention Gennewa Gold members. Please contact urgently. randyalltime@gmail.com

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

SPORT

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

27

Ronins prepare to battle Warriors in crunch match Phuket FC fall to fourth after loss FOOTBALL Steven Layne editor3@classactmedia.co.th

I N T H EI R TOUGH EST match-up so far, Phuket were unable to get anything going and lost 2-0 away to 2nd place Nakhon Ratchasima FC last Sunday (May 4).

The match, the 10th in the 34-fixture season, was played in front of an energetic record crowd of 15,000 mostly orangeclad supporters at Korat’s December 25 Stadium in the provincial capital two and half hours from Bangkok.

With the result, the Korat ‘Swat Cats’ maintained their 2nd place ranking in the 18-team Yamaha League-1, now with

22 points – one point behind league leaders Angthong FC. With 17 points and a goal difference of +4, Phuket fell one spot down the table into 4th place, surpassed by Bangkok FC who took the 3rd spot with 20 points after beating Si Racha 2-0 earlier on Sunday (May 4).

With the loss, Phuket FC conclude a hectic two weeks of league and cup competitions – five matches in 14 days – which saw them win twice.

The Ronins now return to Phuket to take on 6th placed Phitsanulok TSY on Sunday (May 11), a team that also has 17 points (-2 goal differential) following their 2-1 win over Ayuthaya last Saturday (May 3).

Thailand, Hong Kong win at Asian champs WINDSURFING FOR THE FIRST-TI M E ever, windsurfing’s RS:One Asian Championships took place in Thailand, with 21 racers from seven countries participating over four divisions.

Held in collaboration with the Top of the Gulf Regatta at the Ocean Marina Yacht Club in Pattaya, the three-day event saw all racers compete on the same board: the universal RS:One racing class.

Hong Kong and Thailand dominated the races with winners in both the women’s and men’s categories.

In the men’s division, Thai racer Natthaphong Phonoppharat took the title from the start with a strong first day. He ended up gaining first place

@thephuketnews

in seven out of eight races. In second and third place were Thai racers Pattaradanai Jinin and Suttiphong Krowparkobkit, respectively.

In the women’s division, Hong Kong racer Sonia Lo Sin-lam swept all eight races to secure the Asian crown away from Thai athlete Sarocha Prumprai. Wai Yan-ngai, also from Hong Kong, came in third.

The RS:One class of windsurfing will be part of the slate of events at the 4th Asian Beach Games being held in Phuket in November.

FREE KICK Kazira Hans kazesfreekick@gmail.com

P

hitsanulok TSY FC’s first southern expedition won’t be a leisure trip.

Under Brazilian head coach Reuther Moreira, Phitsanulok have lost only one game this season – albeit a 6-0 defeat by Nakhon Ratchasima, the biggest rout in Yamaha League-1 so far this season.

Moreira will face off against fellow Brazilian and Phuket FC coach Stefano “Teco” Cugurra, who has yet to lose a game at home.

Phuket FC’s home advantage makes it difficult for visiting teams to wrestle any points out of Surakul stadium, and the team will be even more motivated following their 2-0 away loss last weekend against Nakhon Ratchasima.

It seems that both Brazilian coaches favour their fellow Samba boys. While Teco’s favourites are Eber Henrique (#23) and Ney Fabiano (#11), Reuther is likely to play top scorer Diego Oliveira Alves (#9) who has netted 6 goals this season, and Leonardo Ferreira Da Silva (#32), who has scored 3.

The duo will play upfront in Reuther’s 4-3-3 formation, with K-Pop striker Park Moon Ho (#24). On the wings, Re-

Phuket FC

TEAMS BY THE NUMBERS

4th place (5 wins, 3 losses, 2 draws) 17 points (+4 goal differential) Top scorer: Wasan Natasan – 4 goals Last match: 2-0 loss vs Nakhon Ratchasima

uther might play the fast and agile Suppakorn Narknoi (#10) and Noppadol Juyjaiherm (#7), hoping they can tear through the Phuket FC defense.

Teco is on a good run with his 4-3-3 formation, but unlike Reuther, Teco’s wings and midfield are not quite there yet. Apart from that, Teco will have to figure out how to drive plays from the back on both sides of the field.

On the left is Pyne Soe (#16), who in the last match against Nakhon Ratchasima was hesitant to drive the game forward and lost possession

Phitsanulok

6th place (4 wins, 1 loss, 5 draws) 17 points (-2 goal differential) Top scorer: Diego Oliveira Alves – 6 goals Last match: 2-1 win vs Ayutthaya FC

often. On the right side, there’s no denying that Prachaya Hong-In (#6) defended well, but also rarely pushed forward.

Defensive midfielder Alef Pochi (#16) is getting married and is unavailable for this match, meaning Teco will only have Watchara Kriarum (#21) to play that position.

If there is a permanent fixture in this side, it’s Eber: he’s started every game this season, playing both sides of the field.

Teco’s biggest problem, however, is that his midfielders rarely connect plays and

complete passes. Phuket FC, once famed for their ground game and strong midfield, now can’t even connect it anymore, and most of their drives are along the sidelines. They will need more variety than that.

If the Ronins want three points from this game, they will have to score first and defend vigorously in the last quarter of the game, as this Phitsanulok side is known for scoring late goals.

KAZE’S PREDICTION: Phuket FC 2-0 Phitsanulok TSY FC

28 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

30

Laguna turn it on to earn playoff spot in JLL league CRICKET From above: Jimmy Stewart with a Kingfish; ABC International School students learning about the marine environment. Photos: Jimmy Stewart

Stuart Reading

How to tell when it’s swell at sea CAST AWAY

Jimmy Stewart info@fishinginphuket.com

i once again my fisheroos.

With the passing of the joyful, madness of Songkran, “the smoker’s nightmare”, we are now “officially” in low season. So I thought I would dispense advice in relation to chartering a boat in what is now the “green” season, a Thai colloquialism for low season.

Firstly, it is inadvisable to book a charter prior to knowing the weather conditions in advance, and five days should give a reasonably accurate prediction.

Fishing around Phuket often dramatically improves after a good “stir-up” but that

H

doesn’t mean your trip has to be an uncomfortable experience since many Thai boats will go out with little regard to conditions.

When looking at the forecast, a few squalls are probably beneficial to the ardent angler, but what you should be checking are the sea conditions, known as “swell ratings”, which can be found on my web site under “Marine Forecast”.

So what is a “swell”? It is a two-part equation relating to wave strength: the wave height and the time between waves. For example, I would not recommend going out in a 2m swell at eight seconds or less, whereas a half-metre swell every 14 seconds, could rock you to sleep. Therefore the smaller the wave and the longer the time lapse, the better.

In other news, I was very pleased to hear that marine conservation is now being

taught at one of our local schools. Kids in class 3K, at ABC International School in Rawai, are learning all about oceanic pollution. It’s a pity we could not fill the school with “commercial” fishing boat management, who don’t seem to realise they are jeopardising the future of their children.

Let’s hope that when the kids at ABC have families of their own, they might know what a fish looks like.

This month’s catch of the month goes to the RBFC’s ‘Last Sunday of the month’s’ fishing team on the boat Wahoo 4, who like myself encountered large schools of GT’s (Giant Trevally or Kingfish) around “Tuna Rock” south of Racha Noi and landed a respectable pair at 13kg and 17kg.

Yours truly, who was also on the scene in the Mena boat, pulled in two 10kg + GT’s on a multiple 30lb “Tuna” line,

quite a feat.

Unfortunately for the Mena team, Wahoo 4 and its crew of RBFC misfits have to take pride of place, as on their way home they caught and released a sail fish estimated to be around 25kg. Well done Nick, Robin, Bruce, Stephen and John. Commiserations to Patong Peter, his Belgian friends and me!

And finally a warning, as the weather and tides do their annual change most are aware that swimming off the west coast of Phuket can be extremely dangerous due to the rip tides, but for the lighter, faster crafts this change also means there are a considerable amounts of hazards such as large logs floating just beneath the surface – sailors beware.

Tight lines, Jimmy fishinginphuket.com

WITH A PLAY-OFF SPOT on the line, Laguna made a statement by overcoming Patong after setting a 200-run target by posting 199-5, and bowling out their opponents for 126-10 in their Jones Lang LaSalle Cricket League match last Sunday (May 4) at the Alan Cooke Ground.

Patong needed to win this match to have a chance of making the play-offs.

Choosing to bat first, Laguna got off to a steady start. Openers Darren Shaw (29) and Manish Sadarangani (80) survived the first session before the break and went on to post an 88-run partnership before Shaw was caught in the 19th over.

Sadarangani then combined with Damian Clowes (32) to put on a 72-run partnership to take the score along to 163-3 before Sadarangani was caught at midoff in the 31st over. Clowes was dismissed at the end of the 33rd over with the score on 174-5.

With 12 balls remaining, Stuart Reading (14 not out) and Sameer Khan (11 not out) put on a quick-fire 25 runs to boost the innings total to 199-5 after the allotted 35

overs setting a defendable but not impossible target for Patong.

Pick of the bowlers were Soton Alamin (3 for 51) and Paddy Morton (1 for 24).

Patong needed to get off to a strong start, and did just that after the lunch break with opening batsman, Seemant Raju (47), wellsupported by Mike Khan (15) posting 69 runs before Raju was caught the bowling of Nadeem Youseff. Only one wicket down after the first 12 over session, Patong were on target with their run rate of approximately 5 per over.

Patong entered the final session with 90 runs and only 4 wickets. Laguna struck to remove Pao, and Patong were on the ropes at 113-7 with only one batter – Neil Quail.

However, after Waqar Bhatt pulled up with cramp after his first ball of the 29th over, Reading came on to finish the over, struck with his first ball when Quail was caught. Patong were all out in the 31st over for 126-10.

Pick of the bowlers were Sameer Khan (2 for 14) and Nadeem Youseff (2 for 23).

Laguna will meet the winner of the ICC vs Village matchup this Sunday (May 11) at the Alan Cooke Ground at 10am.

For more information, visit phuketcricketgroup.com

TAEKWONDO KICKS IT IN SAPHAN HIN

More than 650 athletes from across Asia participated in the second Phuket International Taekwondo Championships last Saturday (May 3).

The tournament took place in the 4,000 seat Saphan Hin Gymnasium in Phuket Town and was organised by the Phuket Taekwondo Dragon Gym Club.

A total of 44 teams competed in the event, which included a mix of male and female categories for all ages.

Phuket Vice Governor Somkiet Sungkaosuthirak handed out trophies on behalf of the governor. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

SPORT 29

Phuketians make big noise at Top of the Gulf Regatta SAILING Competitors and surf enthusiasts at the Khao Lak Surfing Contest, the first such event this year. Photo: Tim Campbell

Building the stoke SURF SPOT Tim Campbell info@surf-sup.com

H

ey hey surfers, those who have been paying attention would have noticed the swell sneaking in to say hello.

Its a nice sight to drive around the beaches and start to see those beautiful lines rolling in. It’s still very small but certain areas already have some short surfable waves.

Thailand hosted its first surf contest of 2014 at Pakarang beach in Khao Lak last week and was truly blessed with clean, surfable waves and a great turn out.

It was an amazing weekend of unity with all the different Thai surfing communities coming together to share waves, fun spirited competition and a few laughs.

Contest organisers were stoked with how smooth the event ran and turnout of competitors, especially with a new beginners division which saw many competitors who

Even with 15 teams from around Asia competing in the British International School, Phuket Flying Fish Swim Meet last week, local swimmers stood out.

Flying Fish scoop medals SWIMMING IT’S BEEN AN EVENTFUL month for the swimmers at British International School, Phuket (BISP), as the school hosted their annual Flying Fish International Swim Meet last weekend just one month after a strong performance by the BISP squad in Malaysia.

Teams from China, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand competed in the event, which saw the home squad of BISP Flying Fish swimmers win @thephuketnews

with a total team score of 4,256. In comparison, the visiting Isb-Dragons finished in second place with 2,884.

The school’s High Performance Team Academy also confirmed that 15-year-old Malaysian swimmer Wong Fu Kang will join the BISP team on scholarship this August.

The local competition took place just weeks after the BISP team’s strong showing at the Malaysian Age Group Championships. Leading the way with eight best times and three medals in the Boys 13-14

age group was local product Hendrick Faber, who collected victories in the 200m IM, 1500m free, and 400m IM. BISP’s Eric Tan, another 15-year-old Malaysian, medalled in two categories and recorded five BISP Flying Fish Age Group records, including an all-time record of 24.55 seconds in the 50m freestyle event.

Fellow student Syakirah Frost, 14, came away with two best times which were also Flying Fish Age Group records.

have only been surfing for a couple of months.

There were also a lot more kids at this event, which shows that the sport is growing in Thailand but is also breeding a new generation of Thai surfers. The whole contest reflected what a surfing contest should be and that’s having fun with your mates while cheering each other on.

LOCAL SAILOR SCOTT D u nca n son h ig h l ig ht ed Phuket’s strong showing at the Top of the Gulf Regatta in Pattaya last weekend, as he re-staked his claim as one of the top yachtsmen in Thailand with his fourth Coronation Cup title Representing Ao Chalong Yacht Club, Duncanson’s 7.5 metre-long Kingdom Property boat gave him more than a 20-second lead to take the top spot over runner-up Chris Way on the final day of racing.

Duncanson’s (who also won in 2002, 2008, and 2010) win

was significant in that the event called for all sailors to race in almost identical boats – the Platu 25 class.

Meanwhile, local Thai sailors Sarawutt Kunhak (38th), Cartoon Jundet (40th) and Thanakon Macfildoc (59th) all went well in Division A of the Thailand Optimist Nationals, an event for children up to age 15, while Phawat Phongguilai and Pongpech Taokrathok (11th and 23rd, respectively) both placed in Division B of the competition.

All five sailors represented the Phuket Youth Sailing Club and are from Phuket Sunshine Village, an orphanage for underprivileged children.

30 SPORT

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

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The overall competition winner receives 2 nights accommodation at the Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort in a Premium Suite with Private Pool, buffet breakfast for 2, Sheraton Club Lounge benefit, and 1 dinner at Malati or Gecko’s restaurant for 2, overall value B61,400.

The monthly competition winners for May 2014 each receive a B1,500 voucher to spend at Walkabout Sports Bar Karon Beach.

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English Premier League

Manchester United’s English striker James Wilson celebrates with Serbian defender Nemanja Vidic after scoring the opening goal of the match between Man U and Hull City at Old Trafford, which ended 3-1. Photo: AFP/Paul Ellis

United’s past and future see off Hull FOOTBALL

T

eenage debutant James Wilson scored twice as Manchester United rang out the old and ushered in the new in a 3-1 win at home to Hull City last Tuesday (May 6).

While the 18-year-old Wilson introduced himself to Old Trafford, captain Nemanja Vidic made his last home appearance, and there was also a late cameo from United great Ryan Giggs that may have been a farewell.

Vidic will join Inter Milan on a free transfer after United’s last game at Southampton on Sunday (May 11), while 40-year-old Giggs, currently the interim manager, will

shortly be out of contract.

In an on-pitch address after the final whistle, Giggs told the crowd: “We know it’s been tough this season and over the years we’ve been spoilt with the success we’ve had, but you’ve always supported the team and the staff and I’m sure in the coming years we’ll bring you more success.

“You’ve seen a lit tle glimpse of the future. We always play attractive football.

Keep supporting us, and the good times will come back soon.”

For the last home game of his interim role, ahead of the anticipated appointment of Louis van Gaal, Giggs gave a nod to the club’s traditions by picking both Wilson and

20-year-old Tom Lawrence.

Wilson scored once in each half, with substitute Robin van Persie adding a late third after Matty Fryatt had replied for FA Cup finalists Hull.

A Europa League place remains an unlikely target for United, who need to beat Southampton and hope Tottenham Hotspur lose to Aston Villa, but they at least signed off with a positive home result after a wretched campaign.

In his own post-game speech, Vidic said: “I had so many great times here. It is hard to speak because of the emotions.

“Most importantly, I would like to thank the players, the manager and all the coaches.

Thank you for everything and especially to the fans. You have been fantastic to me all these years.”

Giggs chose to name himself and Vidic among the United substitutes, and yet the biggest surprise on the team-sheet was the presence of debutants Wilson and Lawrence in the hosts’ starting XI. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger refused to get carried away despite his side taking a major step towards Champions League qualification with a convincing 3-0 Premier

League win at home to Newcastle last Monday (May 5).

Goals from Laurent Koscielny, Mesut Ozil and Olivier Giroud at the Emirates Stadium handed the fourth-placed Gunners a routine victory that moved them four points clear of fifth-placed rivals Everton with just two league games of the season remaining.

FA Cup finalists Arsenal require one more domestic league win to achieve their 17th successive campaign in Europe’s premier competition.

Meanwhile, Fulham and Cardiff City were both relegated after defeats in their penultimate games of the season left them unable to reach safety.

Fulham’s 13-year run in the English top flight was ended by a 4-1 defeat at Stoke City, while Cardiff went straight back down to the Championship following a 3-0 loss at Newcastle United.

Both sides’ fates were sealed by fourth-bottom Sunderland’s unexpected 1-0 win at Manchester United, which took Gus Poyet’s side four points above Fulham and five points clear of bottom club Cardiff.

Peter Odemwingie, Marko Arnautovic, Oussama Assaidi and Jonathan Walters scored

Team

MP W

D

L

F

A

GD

Pts

1

Liverpool

37

25

6

6

99

49

50

81

2

Man City

36

25

5

6

96

37

59

80

3

Chelsea

37

24

7

6

69

26

43

79

4

Arsenal

37

23

7

7

66

41

25

76

5

Everton

37

20

9

8

59

39

20

69

6

Tottenham

37

20

6

11

52

51

1

66

7

Man Utd

37

19

6

12

63

42

21

63

8

Southampton

37

15

10

12

53

45

8

55

9

Newcastle

37

15

4

18

42

57

-15

49

10

Stoke

37

12

11

14

43

51

-8

47

11

Crystal Palace

37

13

5

19

31

46 -15

44

12

West Ham

37

11

7

19

40

49

-9

40

13

Swansea

37

10

9

18

51

53

-2

39

14

Aston Villa

36

10

8

18

39

54 -15

38

15

Hull

37

10

7

20

38

51

-13

37

16

West Brom

36

7

15

14

42

55 -13

36

17

Sunderland

36

9

8

19

38

57

-19

35

18

Norwich

37

8

9

20

28

60 -32

33

19

Fulham

37

9

4

24

38

83 -45

31

20

Cardiff

37

7

9

21

31

72

30

the goals that accounted for Fulham at the Britannia Stadium, with Kieran Richardson replying in vain for the visitors.

“I’ve never been relegated until today,” said Fulham manager Felix Magath. “I feel very sad. I have to apologise for not managing the situation. The club asked me to come. I tried.”

Goals from Newcastle trio Shola Ameobi, Loic Remy and Steven Taylor sent Cardiff back to the second tier just a year after their promotion from the Championship.

“The realisation that we’re down is one of the most bitter disappointments of both mine and many of the players’ careers,” said Cardiff manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Note: Two matches, including Manchester City vs Aston Villa, had yet to kick-off when The Phuket News went to print on Wednesday night.

-41

FOOTBALL FIXTURES Wednesday, May 7 (kick-off GMT) Man City v Aston Villa

19:45

Sunderland v West Brom

19:45

Sunday, May 11 (kick-off GMT) Arsenal V West Brom

13:30

Cardiff v Chelsea

15:00

Fulham v Crystal Palace

15:00

Hull v Everton

15:00

Liverpool v Newcastle

15:00

Man City v West Ham

15:00

Norwich v Arsenal

15:00

Southampton v Man Utd

15:00

Sunderland v Swansea

15:00

Tottenham v Aston Villa

15:00

PREVIOUS RESULTS: Tuesday, May 6 Man Utd

3-1

Hull

Monday, May 5 Crystal Palace

3-3

Liverpool

Sunday, May 4 Arsenal 1-0 West Brom Chelsea 0-0 Norwich

Saturday, May 3 West Ham 2-0 Tottenham Aston Villa 3-1 Hull Man Utd 0-1 Sunderland Newcastle 3-0 Cardiff Stoke 4-1 Fulham Swansea 0-1 Southampton Everton 2-3 Man City

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

SPORT 31

Fighters clash for 200k prize MUAY THAI

J.P. Mestanza editor2@classactmedia.co.th

Australia axe captain Neill from provisional World Cup squad

A

fter weeks of knockouts and decision victories, the inaugural Andaman League 16-man tournament will conclude with a final bout on May 27 at Soi Ta Ied Stadium that pits together two of the toughest fighters on the island.

Tuktatong Tigermuaythai will take on Mongkonpet Dragonmuaythai in three weeks time to crown the tournament’s first champion and claim the B200,000 prize money, one of the biggest cash titles in Phuket history.

Both fighters took care of three opponents each prior to the May 27 match-up.

The semi-finals were held this past Tuesday (May 6) with a slate of bouts that included fighters from all around the island.

Mongkonpet punched his ticket to the final with a decision victory over Sangmoragot Phukettopteam after battling through several strong leg kicks early in the bout.

Moments later, Tuktatong knocked-out Nakonsri Rawaimuaythai in the second round with a vicious elbow

FOOTBALL

to the head.

Interestingly enough, both fighters train in two separate gyms that are only 400m apart: Tuktatong is at

Tiger Muay Thai and MMA Training Camp while Mongkonpet trains out of Dragon Muay Thai.

The finals of the Andaman

League will take place at the new Soi Ta Ied Stadium on Tuesday, May 27. Tickets are B1,200 for general seating and B2,000 for VIP.

CAPTAIN LUCAS NEILL has been dumped from Australia’s World Cup squad with coach Ange Postecoglou saying he does not have the form or fitness to justify going to Brazil.

The decision spells the end of the 36-year-old’s international career after 96 games for his country.

Postecoglou said the decision not to select him in his provisional 30-man squad for the World Cup was not easy, adding he wasn’t convinced the defender could cope with the rigours of football’s showpiece event.

“In terms of form and fitness, there just wasn’t enough evidence there for me to say that he would be able to hold up in the World Cup,” said Postecoglou, who informed Neill of his axing a week ahead of officially announcing

his squad out of respect for the player.

Either Crystal Palace midfielder Mile Jedinak or former Everton stalwart Tim Cahill are favoured to be named captain for the World Cup next month. Australia have Spain, the Netherlands and Chile in their group.

Neill, who made his international debut in 1996, has led Australia 60 times but has struggled for game time since last November.

He finally signed with English championship team Watford in February before a loan move to Doncaster Rovers.

Since Postecoglou was appointed coach following the sacking of German Holger Osieck last October, many of the veterans from Australia’s 2010 World Cup campaign have called it quits, including Mark Schwarzer, Harry Kewell and Brett Emerton.

AFP

Live Sports TV Schedule

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS

*Times may be subject to change

Run 1472: Saturday, May 10, 4pm Hares: Manneken Pis & Google Ass Directions: From Kathu: After Caltex traffic lights go towards Patong and make a U-turn just after Tiger Kingdom, look out for the HHH sign. After approximately 30 metres turn left and follow HHH signs to laager site.

From Patong: Go to Kathu, and about 200 metres after the hill turn left and follow signs to laager site Bus pick-up: Kamala: 14:30; Patong: 15:00 More info: phuket-hhh.com

CHANNEL START

END

SPORT

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

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Rugby Union

Super XV

Chiefs v. Blues

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Rebels v. Hurricanes

IT 7

16:40

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Cowboys v. Broncos

521

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Carlton v. Collingwood Highlanders v. Lions

Friday, May 9 816, 669

Saturday, May 10 816, 669 669 813, 163, SS4 521

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00:05

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Catalunya Qualifying

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816, 669

12:00

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NRL

Storm v. Manly Highlanders v. Lions

Sunday, May 11 816, 669

669 813, 163, SS4 521

14:30

16:30

Rugby Union

Super XV

16:35

18:30

Rugby Union

Super XV

Brumbies v. Sharks

22:00

00:00

Rugby Union

Super XV

Cheetahs v. Western Force

00:05

02:00

Rugby Union

Super XV

Bulls v. Stormers

18:50

20:30

Motor Racing

Formula 1

Catalunya Qualifying

13:30

16:30

Aussie Rules

AFL

Hawthorn v. St Kilda

16:30

19:30

Aussie Rules

AFL

Brisbane Lions v. Sydney Swans

816, 669

12:00

14:00

Rugby League

NRL

Warriors v. Raiders

IT 7

14:30

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Titans v. Rabbitohs

16:30

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Rugby League

NRL

Storm v. Manly

@thephuketnews

Sport

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor2@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014

Stage is set for Andaman League final with B200k prize on the line > page 31

Mercedes gunning for supremacy in Spain GP FORMULA ONE

N

ot content with winning all four races this year, the outstanding Mercedes team head to this week’s Spanish Grand Prix seeking to extend their advantage over the rest of the field.

Lewis Hamilton and his Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg have dominated in Australia, Malaysia, Bahrain and China, with Hamilton winning the last three in succession following Rosberg’s success in Melbourne.

But that – and the prospect of continued successes – is not enough for Mercedes, whose motorsport boss Toto Wolff has called for a much greater effort in a bid to press home their advantage.

As the Formula One circus prepares to race in Europe for the first time this year, every team will arrive at the Circuit de Catalunya with upgraded cars carrying revised parts – thus turning the start of the “European season” into a new beginning.

“We know our rivals are going to be relentless in their effort to close the gap on us so our aim is to increase the advantage we enjoyed at the last race, in China,” said Wolff.

“As a team, it is up to us to rise to the challenge – to take

Mercedes AMG Petronas driver Lewis Hamilton of Britain (R) celebrates with second-placed teammate Nico Rosberg of Germany (L) on the podium after winning the Formula One Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai. Photo: AFP/Mark Ralston that relentless mentality to an even greater extent than those around us. If we are to build a sustained level of success in this sport, any small advantage must be seen as a platform upon which to build a bigger advantage.”

Having seen how Red Bull’s consummate superiority has been overturned, Wolff is fully aware of the frailty of any level of advantage in Formula One. He said he has long believed

that Mercedes’ advantage at the front of the field is not as great as some have suggested and warned that the German manufacturer’s dominance could come to a swift end unless it keeps pushing.

“I believe that this is an exceptional run and you cannot take it for granted,” he said.

“In a couple of years, we will be looking back and saying that was really great – four races in a row and three doubles

in a row.

“But we have to keep our feet on the ground, and concentrate on developing the car further. We saw in China that our rivals were strong in some stints and we have to analyse that.

“We don’t want to be caught on the back foot. So the kind of spirit we are trying to maintain is that we are not having a comfortable lead, but we are fighting to stay on top.”

McLaren battle to compete As Mercedes plan to stay on top, McLaren are battling to regain their competitiveness after a strong opening race in Australia was followed by a dip in form.

Racing director Eric Boullier and chief executive Jonathan Neale have reviewed the team’s operations and reacted with a raft of new signings.

These have included aero-

dynamicists Tony Salter from Sauber and Guillaume Cattelani from Lotus ahead of the arrival next year of a new ‘aero’ chief in Peter Prodromou.

Boullier is convinced the changes will reap dividends.

“McLaren is composed of brilliant individuals, they have been winning many races and have been fighting for championships,” he said.

“I think it is just to make sure that the same people are working together in one way with strong leadership, strong guidance and at least it will help them to recover their past success.”

The prospect of McLaren continuing to struggle in the doldrums 20 years on from the death of Ayrton Senna signals the extent of the changes in the sport since 1994.

Modern and safer circuits, quieter engines and a more corporate involvement are only three of the discernible differences in a sport that remains awash with money, fiercely competitive and technically progressive.

Yet the supremacy of Mercedes and the intra-team scrap between Hamilton and Rosberg has echoes of McLaren’s experiences with Senna and Alain Prost in an age when the racing, the purest part of the sport, could rise and thrill audiences all over the world. AFP

Defender Sam set to become first openly gay NFL player GRIDIRON MICHAEL SAM, A COLlegiate standout who revealed his homosexuality last February, was expected to be chosen in this week’s NFL Draft and could become the league’s first openly gay player.

Sam, a defensive end who played at the University of Missouri, figures to be taken in the later rounds of the annual allocation process of new talent to American

football clubs, which started Thursday (May 8) and ends Saturday (May 10).

“I just wish you guys would just see me as Michael Sam the football player instead of Michael Sam the gay football player,” Sam told reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine where his strength, speed and agility were tested.

Sam played down his role as a groundbreaker, saying, “A trailblazer? I just feel like Michael Sam.” Nevertheless, he enters the American sports landscape

in the wake of Jason Collins becoming the first openly gay player in the NBA, now with the Brooklyn Nets in the second round of the NBA playoffs against defending NBA champion Miami.

And Sam arrives on the brink of an NFL contract as the league still deals with the aftermath of the Miami Dolphins bullying scandal, a locker room taunting disgrace that involved one teammate threatening and harassing another, including homophobic insults revealed in an NFL

investigation into the matter.

“If the Miami Dolphins drafted me I would be excited to be a part of that organisation,” Sam said. “I’m not afraid of going into that environment. I know how to handle myself.”

Sam told his college teammates that he was gay before the 2013 season and found great support, and since revealing he was gay to the world he has become the subject of buttons of support saying, “Stand with Sam.” AFP

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