09-09-2016

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

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PATONG GETS BANGLA CCTV AT BOMB SITE > PAGE 2

RUSSIANS ROLL BACK GROWTH IN TOURIST ARRIVALS BRINGS HOPE, BUT THEY ARE SMARTER SPENDERS

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resurgence in the number of Russian tourists coming to Phuket has piqued hopes for a Russian revival pumping muchneeded life-blood back into Phuket’s critical tourism industry.

Fuelling the interest in the revitalised tourist source market are more than six consecutive months

of over 20 per cent growth year-onyear in the number of arrivals from Russia, and the fact that the “new” Russians are spending more.

Phuket is experiencing two trends: a short term spike in the number of Russians tourists arriving on cheap package tours (see The Phuket News, Sept 2 issue), but also an undercurrent of longer-term growth that began six months ago where the focus is on the growing trend for more, higher-spending

Russian tourists making their way to Phuket.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports (MoT) reported 599,140 travellers from Russia visited Thailand in January-July, up 19.39% from same period last year. In July alone the arrivals from Russia grew 20.02%, nearly doubling the average growth rate of 10.85% recorded by MoT. “The increase in the number of Russian tourists this year is unde-

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niable, and the number of charter flights to Phuket is increasing,” notes Sathirapong Na Takuatoong, President of Phuket Tourist Association.

“The Russians coming now are different from the mass tourism Russians who came two years ago,” Mr Sathirapong said.

However, while the new arrivals are spending more on their holidays, they are more selective about what they spend their money on and are seeking out fair value...

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Tourist suffers broken spine in vile sex attack

LIFE

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Phuket’s first Consul-General

SPORT

Tourists arrive at Phuket Airport, loaded for their holiday. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot

Anton Makhrov & Tanyaluk Sakoot editor@classactmedia.co.th

NEWS

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Another topsyturvey season for Phuket FC

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Phuket Governor unveils route for B5.5bn airport highway > page 4

Patong police gifted CCTV to cover Bangla Darawan Naknakhon editor@classactmedia.co.th

Emergency workers treat the man for severe injuries at the scene. Photo: Ekkapop Thongtub

Disabled man dies after jump from hotel A HANDICAPPED MAN died in hospital as a result of severe injuries sustained after jumping from the fourth floor of a hotel on Saiyuan Rd in Rawai last Saturday afternoon (Sept 3).

Lt Chanat Hongsitthichaikul and Lt Jaruwat Ponrat of Chalong Police Station were notified that a man had jumped from the building at 2:20pm. Upon arrival, they found a man with a disability to his right arm, lying on the floor screaming in pain. Both of his legs were broken as a result of the jump.

The man was unknown to people in the area and was not carrying any form of identification.

The hotel receptionist told police that she saw the

man enter the hotel and walk quickly towards the stairwell.

She realised the man was not a guest at the hotel so attempted to stop him.

However, she was unable to and the man rushed to the fourth floor, opened a window and jumped. Hotel staff immediately called the police and an ambulance from Vachira Hospital.

Declining to name the man, Lt Chanat on Monday said (Sept 5), “He passed away at the hospital (last Sunday, Sept 4) due to his injuries. He was aged 35 and held a disabled persons card registered in Phuket.

“I think he jumped due to severe personal issues,” he said.

Eakkapop Thongtub

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atong Police have been gifted 10 high-quality CCTV cameras to provide security surveillance on Bangla Rd in a ceremony held at the police box on Bangla Rd, where one of the two bombs in Phuket detonated on Aug 12.

The 10 CCTV cameras, which have zoom ability to see more than 300 metres and rotate 360 degrees, are valued at more than B1 million and were handed over at the ceremony on Tuesday (Sept 6) under the campaign “Thousand Eyes Community Help” to assure tourists and residents of the safety of the town.

The project was also conducted under the national government’s Pracharat policy, explained Kathu District Chief Sayan Chanachaiwong.

“This project combines the full support of government departments, business operators and residents who believe that the crucial thing for a tourist attraction area is safety,” Mr Sayan said.

“Under this campaign ‘Thousand Eyes Community Help’, these 10 CCTV cameras

Patong scion Preechawut ‘Prab’ Keesin (in green raincoat, right), President of the Pisona Group, joined the ceremony on Bangla Rd. Photo: Darawan Naknakhon will be installed on Bangla Rd, then we will expand the project and garner more donations to have CCTV installed in other areas. Our goal is to cover all areas of Patong Beach. Thank you everyone for your support,” he said.

Chief Sayan in part recognised the lack of CCTV coverage on the busiest tourist street in Phuket’s key tourist town. “We learned that the CCTV that had been installed had some maintenance issues, so this time a private company has been hired to take care of

this CCTV system,” he said.

Patong Police Chief Chaiwat Uikam explained that CCTV coverage in Patong available to police currently comprises 120 government CCTV cameras and more than 200 CCTV cameras from private businesses and homes.

“In total, we have access to more than 300 CCTV cameras, which still does not cover all areas,” he said.

“We will need at least 1,000 CCTV cameras to cover all of Patong.” he added.

Col Chaiwat declined to

elaborate on how much funding has already been provided to provide the current level of police CCTV coverage in his jurisdiction.

However, he added, “The new CCTV cameras will benefit officers trying to follow suspects or investigate anything suspicious, and they will increase the level of trust among tourists that our place is safe.

“Patong Municipality has also requested a budget to buy 20 additional CCTV cameras for the Patong area,” he said.

Russian tourism revival brings hope Continued from page 1 ...Russia ranks sixth on the list of Thailand’s largest source markets and tops the list of non-Asian countries.

Thailand’s five top markets – China, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan and India – are all within the Asian region, while Russia is number one source market outside it, outstripping Europe, Australia and USA in terms of volume and often in terns of length of stay and tourist spending.

According to the TAT, average spending by Russian visitors to Thailand in 2013 stood at B3,800 a day. That has risen to B4,500 – about B300 more than the average spending by the European tourist visiting Phuket.

However, Mr Sathirapong noted, “I can’t say

PTA President Sathirapong Na Takuatoong. that these Russians will be higher quality than those who came two years ago, but they are spending more – about B5,000 per person a day.”

Regarding whether the trend of Phuket attracting higher-spending Russians is sustainable, he added, “It is hard to say whether this trend is truly sustainable, as that depends on many things, but it is a good thing for now.” thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

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Horror attack in Krabi Police move quickly to trial over Krabi sex attack on American teacher The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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olice are moving quickly to bring to trial charges against the man who confessed to sexually attacking an American teacher on holiday who suffered a broken spine while fleeing his advances in Krabi last Thursday (Sept 1).

Hannah Gavois, a 23-yearold from Queens, New York, is recovering at Bangkok Hospital Phuket after surgery on her spine after she fell 45 metres down a mountain at Railay, in Krabi, while fleeing a sexual attack by Apai Raingworchai, 28, who she had hired as a local guide to lead over over the mountain.

Ao Nang Deputy Police Chief Lt Col Winai Poonsawas told The Phuket News on Wednesday (Sept 7) that officers already have taken an incident report from Ms Gavois.

“She has given us her statement, and it is similar to what Mr Apai had told us. He did sexually attack her, but did not rape her.”

In her chilling recollection

American Hannah Gavios is recovering well from her spinal surgery, say doctors, as police move quickly to bring her attacker to trial. Photo: Facebook / Eakkapop Thongtub of her ordeal, Ms Gavois told the Daily Mail, “It was pitch black and before I knew it, I was in mid air falling off a cliff. I was honestly thinking I wouldn’t survive,” she said.

“I hit my head a few times and landed with a big bump. I was screaming in pain. It was the most painful thing ever.

I felt like a total vegetable. I felt completely vulnerable. I

couldn’t move anything.”

Apai soon caught up with her as she lay helpless. “He heard me screaming and moaning and he came down and climbed down the mountain and starting crying and praying,” she said, adding that Apai was oddly remorseful about the attack.

“He was feeling ver y guilty. I was begging him to

PM Prayut to launch Startup 2016 PRIME MINISTER GEN Praut Chan-o-cha will arrive in Phuket to launch the “Startup Thailand and Digital Thailand 2016” and “Phuket as Smart City and Startup Paradise” event at Royal Phuket Marina on Friday (Sept 16).

The Phuket Provincial Office of the Public Relations Department announced the news on Tuesday (Sept 6).

In addition to launching the “Startup Thailand and Digital Thailand 2016” Phuket event, PM Prayut will deliver a speech at the “Phuket as Smart City and Startup Paradise”

@thephuketnews

Thai Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-ocha will be in Phuket on Friday next week (Sept 16). Photo: AFP event the same day. In the afternoon, PM Prayut will meet and greet residents.

In the evening, PM Prayut will join a meeting at Phuket

Rajabhat University to discuss economic affairs with local officials and members from the business community.

“Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada this week will hold a meeting to prepare for the Prime Minister’s visit,” Bootsaya Jaipiam, Chief of the Phuket office of the Public Relations Department, said on Tuesday (Sept 6).

“More details will be revealed at the Phuket Governor Meets Press public meeting on September 14,” she added.

Tanyaluk Sakoot

call for help. He got on the phone and started calling and I thought somebody was coming, but nobody came,” Ms Gavois told the Daily Mail.

Then her situation took a sick twist as Apai allegedly decided he wasn’t through with Ms Gavios.

“He got on top of me. He took of his pants and masturbated on me,” she recalled.

“He didn’t rape me but he did everything else. I really thought I was going to die,” she said.

Ms Gavios said she tried to remain calm and avoid screaming to prevent him from choking her.

“As soon as it got lighter I started calling for help. He kept saying, ‘No police! No police!’” she said.

Col Winai of the Ao Nang Police believes the court will be commensurate in handing down its punishment.

“The suspect is facing assault causing serious injury and charges of sexual assault.

He is now being held at a cell at the Krabi Provincial Court,” Col Winai told The Phuket News.

“There is no question what he did was wrong and unacceptable, and his fate is up to the court to decide. I am sure his punishment will be severe,” he added.

Col Winai confirmed that Apai is not a registered tour guide, though he was hired to lead Ms Gavois over the mountain at Railay, a popular rock-climbing locale with

spectacular views over Phang Nga Bay. “He is a homeless man living at Ao Railay. Locals give him food and drink to get by, and sometimes people pay him to help move or carry things at the beach,” Col Winai said.

“He is mentally stable,” Col Winai added, in response to reports that Apai suffers a mental disability.

“We also gave him a drug and alcohol test after the incident, and the test results came back negative,” Col Winai said.

Col Winai hopes to have Ms Gavois give her testimony to the court as early as next week, but doctors say she needs at least 10 more days recovery in hospital.

Dr Manop Trinarong at Bangkok Hospital Phuket on Wednesday said that Ms Gavois is recovering well from her spinal surgery.

“She is recovering but needs to stay in hospital at least one more week. She can move her hands well, but her legs are still a bit of a problem.

She can move her legs, but she cannot move them very much,” he said.

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Governor confirms route for B5bn, 12-lane airport road Darawan Naknakhon editor@classactmedia.co.th

Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada on Tuesday confirmed that the Highways Department has decided on the route the planned 12-lane expressway from Koh Kaew to Phuket International Airport costing B5.5 billion will take.

Governor Chamroen announced the route at a public meeting held at Phuket Rajabhat University.

Present at the meeting were Phuket Provincial Office Chief Administrative Officer (Palad) Pakphom Intarasuwan and Phuket Chamber of Commerce President Surachai Chaiwat.

Highways Department Engineer Paisan Suwanrak explained at the meeting that the initial proposal to make the road four lanes wide each way had been expanded to now make the road six lanes

Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada this week confirmed that the Highways Department has decided which route the B5.5 billion airport expressway will take. Photo: PR Dept each way.

The extra two new lanes each way will comprise one lane reserved for motorcycles, and one lane one each side of the expressway being reserved for bicycles.

“The road aims to ease

traffic congestion to Phuket Town,” he said. “It will have will five overpasses, and will be 80 metres wide and 22.7km long.”

The road will start near Thalang Technical College, pass Bang Khanoon protected

forest and the Heroines’ Monument and conclude at Koh Kaew about 700 metres north of the Bang Ku Underpass.

“The project team aims to have the plans finalised

by April 2017, then we will proceed with construction.

The new road is expected to be complete in 2022,” Mr Paisan said.

Gov Chamroen explained that the meeting held on Tuesday was to follow up on the project’s progress and to let the public know that the Highways Department had made finalised its decision on the location for the new road, and had selected the best plan for the area.

“Local government authorities involved in the project and residents living in the areas that will be affected have been informed of the current update on the project,” Gov Chamroen said.

“We also wanted to give the opportunity for everyone to express their opinions or give advice on the project so officials could gather the information from the meeting today to help with the survey and design for this project,” he said.

Officials take on 2,700 tonnes of tuna seized from IUU fishing boats MORE THAN 2.7 KILOtonnes of seized tuna was removed from illegal, unreported and unregistered (IUU) fishing boats moored at the Phuket Deep Sea Port at Ao Makham last Friday (Sept 2).

The operators of the IUU were arrested seven months ago and the company that owns the ships requested that the Department of Fisheries remove the tuna as it could not afford to store the cargo any longer.

Phuket Fisheries officials brought in workers and a crane truck to remove the monster haul of 2,700 tonnes of tuna from the two fishing boats Mook Andaman 081 and Mook Andaman 028, which were captured by the Royal Thai Navy on January 30 for fishing illegally in Thai waters.

One Phuket Fisheries official explained that his office had received the order to remove the seized tuna after Thanongsak Rasawong,

Immigration Commissioner Lt Gen Nathathorn Prousoontorn said the three Chinese women were members of a transnational crime gang. Photo: Bangkok Post

Phuket Fisheries officials remove 270 kilotonnes of seized tuna from an IUU boat docked at the Phuket Deep Sea Port at Ao Makham Managing Director of Siamtuna Fisheries, which owns the two boats, requested the Fisheries Department to take control of all seized items on the two fishing boats.

“Mr Thanongsak said that his company was under distress after the arrests and had accumulated large expenses due to the need to keep the boats’ engines, and coolers, running in order to preserve the 278,000 kilograms of tuna stowed aboard,” the official said.

“Keeping the boats’ engines running was costing the company B50,000 per day, more than B11,070,000 in total since the catch was seized. They said they can no longer bear the costs so they had to shut the engines down on Sunday, Aug 28.

“Officials moved the seized tuna to Nuchit Freezer in Rassada and the Department of the Fisheries will take over the expense of freezing them,” he concluded.

Eakkapop Thongtub

Immigration keep schtum on Chinese women arrested THE PHUKET IMMIGRAtion Office has refused to comment about three Chinese women quietly arrested in Phuket who are accused of operating with an international criminal organisation.

The three women – named as Wang Jianlan, 31; Zhang Jingjing, 30; and Jiang Yuemei, 32 – were presented to the press in Bangkok by Immigration Commissioner Pol Lt Gen Nathathorn Prousoontorn on Aug 29.

However, Gen Nathathorn reported that the three women were found in hiding in central Phuket and arrested a week earlier, on Monday, August 22.

The women had entered Thailand on tourist visas, Gen Nathathorn noted.

The three are wanted by Chinese authorities for their alleged involvement in a major tax fraud case, Gen Nathathorn said.

An investigation also found the trio were alleged members of a transnational crime gang that smuggled hazardous substances into several countries.

Phuket Immigration Deputy Chief Pol Lt Col Archeep Jareonsanthisuk, said, “They were arrested in Phuket, but this case does not involve us – just Bangkok only.”

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Chalong carnage

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Top cop orders action after deadly collisions Tanyaluk Sakoot editor@classactmedia.co.th

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he island’s top-ranking police commander has ordered Chalong Police to take action over the deadly intersection of Soi Thanuthep and Chao Fa East Rd in Chalong, where one foreign man died on Monday night and a woman remains in critical condition after colliding with a car at the intersection the next morning.

Chalong Police held a special meeting on Tuesday (Sept 6) to determine what action to take after receiving an urgent order from Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Theerapol Thipjaroen.

The move to prevent further deadly accidents at the site followed Chalong Mayor Samran Jindaphol posting videos of the accidents on social media, both which quickly went viral.

The first video showed the collision between a motorbike ridden by a foreign man wearing a helmet colliding into a white sedan exiting Soi Thanuthep by turning right onto Chao Fa East Rd at 10:35pm

Fed up with no action by local officials, residents in Baan Ya, Srisoonthorn, have started to place sandbags in huge potholes in the road to warn motorists of the danger.

A woman is in critical condition after a collision at the deadly intersection on Tuesday morning (Sept 6).

Video image: Chalong Municipality on Monday (Sept 5).

The second video showed a woman, also wearing a white helmet, colliding with another white sedan, this one a Toyota Vios, at 8:30am on Tuesday.

The Vios was performing exactly the same manoeuvre that caused the fatal accident the night before: exiting Soi Thanuthep by turning right onto Chao Fa East Rd. “We are considering having traffic lights installed at the intersection,” Chalong Traffic Police Chief Lt Col Suchat Singha told The Phuket News.

“But before we confirm

to do that, we will have a ‘No Right Turn’ sign posted at the exit of Soi Thanuthep as soon as possible and Traffic Police officers will be posted there to ensure drivers observe the sign.

“Any drivers found turning right onto Chao Fa East Rd at that intersection will face a fine of up to B1,000,” he said.

“People exiting Soi Thanuthep and wanting to head south on Chao Fa East Rd must turn left and head north first and make a U-turn at Soi Koktanode. It is safer,” Col Suchat said.

A technician demonstrates the new equipment installed at Vachira Hospital’s new Designated Receiving Area for infected patients.

Scans for Zika virus begin H EA LT H OFFICI A LS last Friday (Sept 2) began screening patients arriving at government hospitals across Phuket for people infected with the Zika virus.

So far no patients have been found to be infected, one official from the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office (PPHO), who asked not to be named, told The Phuket News.

Meanwhile, the PPHO is also urging residents to rid areas around their homes of standing water where mosquitoes breed to prevent possible outbreak of the disease in Phuket.

“Residents and tourists can help by making sure that @thephuketnews

areas around their homes and places where they are staying do not breed mosquitoes – and by doing so we are not only preventing Zika from spreading, but also dengue as well,” the official, who works at the PPHO Disease Control Centre, explained.

Public Health Minister Dr Piyasakol Sakolsathayathorn on Sept 1 assured that the spread of the Zika virus in Thailand is not as severe as characterised by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

He urged the public not to panic. “The Department of Disease Control has the

situation under control,” he told a meeting of the National Communicable Disease Commission.

Dr Piyasakol also explained that Zika was not new to Thailand. “It is found annually in several patients, but it can be limited and should not to be a cause of concern,” he said.

Dr Piyasakol said that infections of Zika in Thailand have been found only in Chantaburi, Petchabun, Bueng Kan and Chiang Mai, with most patients already past a 28-day monitoring period and a general warning of a possible outbreak of the virus has already lifted.

The Phuket News

If further action is needed, police will consider having speed bumps installed on Chao Fa East Rd to slow vehicles down before the intersection, he added.

The action to prevent deadly accidents at Soi Thanuthep followed police charging a 40-year-old driver of a Honda CRV who ran a red light in front of Baan Chalong School, on Chao Fa West Rd, last Saturday (Sept 3), inflicting fatal injuries on a motorbike driver who was legally turning right across the CRV’s southbound lane.

Residents sandbag dangerous potholes RESIDENTS FED UP WITH inaction by their local authority have placed sandbags and f lags to mark dangerous potholes and sections of road that have washed away along neighbourhood street in Srisoonthorn, central Phuket.

Residents of Moo 6 Baan Ya say that Thungsuerkhwan Rd has been in dire need of repairs for more than six months and has been the site of many accidents.

The damaged section of road is 2.7km long and has no street lights at night.

T he residents accuse Srisoonthorn of doing nothing to fix the road, and last

Friday (Sept 2) began placing sandbags marked with flags in huge potholes to warn people of the danger.

Sr insoonthor n Mayor Worawut Songyot said that his office is aware of damaged road. “But the road belongs to the Department of Rural Roads and is on the boundary of Srisoonthorn subdistrict,” he said.

“We are waiting for the budget from Phuket Provincial Office and the Department of Rural Roads is already looking for a contractor to repair the damaged section along that road,” he added.

Eakkapop Thongtub

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Seized assets auction rakes in more than B71m Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

All three of the men were found working as tour guides at Asia Amari Pier in Rassada. Photo: PR Dept

Taskforce nets three illegal tour guides A UNIT OF OFFICIALS specifically tasked with targeting illegal workers arrested three foreigners found working illegally as tour guides on Aug 31.

The unit, led by Labour Office chief Suthipong Saisakares and Provincial Defence Deputy Chief Jiradet Burarak, arrested the three men at the Asia Amari Pier in Rassada at 10am.

The three men arrested were named as Arleang 30, and Arming, 31, from Myanmar; and Mr Sorntong Saelee, 30, of unknown nationality.

Mr Jiradet explained “We received an order from Vice Governor Prajiad Aksornthamakul to check this area

for illegal workers, and as soon as we arrived at 10am we noticed three men leading Chinese tourists to buy tickets for a tour boat. They were acting as guides for the group.

“We approached them and asked to see their identification cards and work permits,” he said.

“Arleang and Arming had ID cards but no work permits. Sorntong had neither,” he added.

All three were taken to Phuket City Police Station to be charged for working illegally as a tour guide and working in Thailand without a permit.

The Phuket News

T

he first day of the mass auction this week of assets seized by the Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo) in raids on the now-defunct Tranlee Tour company in Phuket raised more than B70 million – more than double than the starting bids suggested.

The assets were seized when more than 100 officers including police, military and Amlo officials raided companies operating under the Tranlee Travel Co Ltd network of businesses at Rassada and Koh Siray, on the east side of Phuket Town, on July 6.

The auction began on Tuesday (Sept 6) at the Phuket City Municipality meeting room, from 10am to 4pm.

“We ha d a good re sponse from people today, and it is just the first day of the auction,” Theppasu BavornChotidara, Director of Amlo’s Financial Intelligence Division, told The Phuket News.

The auction of assets seized from the shut-down Chinese tour company Translee Tour Co Ltd raised more than B70 million on its first day. Photo: Phuket City Municipality “The starting bids for the 34 assets sold today totalled B31,389,000, but actually sold for B71,534,000 – more than double the starting bids,” he said.

“The cruise boat Sampaothong boat had a starting bid of just B4 million, but

was sold for B12.9 million,” he added.

A further 116 items have yet to be sold in the coming days, Mr Theppasu said.

“Tomorrow, all the buses and transportation vehicles will be up for auction,” he noted.

The auction continued on Wednesday and Thursday (Sept 7-8).

All proceeds from the auction will be transferred to the Ministry of Finance, in accordance with the AntiMoney Laundering Act, Mr Theppasu said.

Lamom Ratderm (left) and Nattaphat Songna are alleged to be behind the shooting of Baan Bangpae Imam Weerachart Kahapana on Aug 4. Photo: The Phuket News

Warrants out for Imam shooting ARREST WARRANTS HAve been issued for two men believed to have been behind the shooting of Baan Bangpae Imam Weerachart Kahapana early last month.

Provincial Deputy Police Chief Col Sermphan Sirikong revealed that the arrest warrants were issued after police arrested 23-year-old Wisuth Yokyong and 24-year-old Thanachai Chunthong in connection with the shooting of Imam Weerachart on Aug 4.

Wisuth and Thanachai were apprehended when they were brought to hospital for injuries sustained while trying to make their getaway.

“After days of questioning,

Wisuth and Thanachai finally gave up the names of two men they say were behind the shooting of Imam Weerachart.

“On Sept 2, Phuket Provincial Court issued arrest warrants for Lamom Ratderm at an address in Thepkrasattri and for Nattaphat Songna at a second address in Thepkrasattri relating to charges of hiring, instigating or conspiring others to commit murder and supporting the act of attempted murder,” Col Sermphan said.

“Lamom and Nattaphat Songna are currently on the run, but we will find them and bring them in to face their charges soon,” he added.

Imam Weerachart was driving home along Soi Koh Kaew 24 with his 3-year-old son in the back seat of his car at 7:45pm on Aug 4 when a motorbike approached and its passenger pulled out the gun and shot at him. Weerachart survived a gunshot wound to the abdomen.

Imam Weerachart said, “I want police to bring everyone involved in this case to justice because I believe they wanted to take my life. The reason behind the shooting I cannot disclose to the public because it under investigation, but I gave police all relevant information.”

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Deferred by heart

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Court hearing on sea gypsy land set for April The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

T

he Phuket Provincial Court has deferred hearing a claim to 12 rai of land in the sea gypsy village in Rawai until in April next year in a case that will likely define whether the entire village will have to be relocated from its age-old home on the Rawai beachfront.

The court handed down the adjournment on Monday (Sept 5) as Rawai Sea gypsy representative Bancha Hadsaithong accompanied by attorney Pasit Thawornlamlerd appeared in court to answer to a complaint filed by Chindarak Thammajak against villagers for encroachment on land in Moo 2 Rawai, where the sea gypsy village is located.

After exiting the courthouse, Mr Bancha said, “I am one of the villagers being sued for encroachment on land that our great grand parents and ancestors have been living for more than 100 years. I live not far from the area where DSI (Department of Special Investigation) found bones of our ancestors.”

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Work is carried out to remove the last high voltage power poles from Yaowarat Rd in Phuket Town.

The Phuket Provincial Court has deferred a key hearing in the dispute over land at the Rawai sea gypsy village until April next year.

The DSI in 2014 assisted Rawai sea gypsies in their claim to the land by gathering DNA evidence, as well as compiling aerial photography and school records as evidence to help them build their case.

Describing his fight for the Rawai sea gypsy village to stay alive, Mr Bancha explained that in the past four years he has fought off two complaints of encroachment.

The first was filed by Chamroen Mookdee, Ms Chindarak’s grandfather. The claim was dismissed by the court, but then appealed.

Since then Mr Chamroen

has died, and Ms Chindarak has subsequently filed her own claim to retain her father’s land, he explained.

“The court agreed to release us without bail today, but we must appear at the next court hearing next April,” Mr Bancha said.

“The 12 rai claimed by Ms Chindarak’s today is home to about 80 families and 10 of those families have already lost their cases in court,” Mr Bancha noted.

The claim is just one of many that together jeopardise the entire sea gypsy village, he noted.

“More than 100 sea gypsies have been in court defending their right to live on the 19 rai that the Rawai sea gypsy village occupies,” he said.

Mr Bancha turned his hopes to the government to resolve the dispute so that the Rawai sea gypsies can continue to live on their ancestral land.

“The provincial government has already proposed to buy the 19 rai needed from those who claim to own the land and to develop it into a community for the villagers,” Mr Bancha said.

“The proposal is being reviewed by the Cabinet at the moment,” he said.

More cables buried in heart of Phuket Town WORK TO PUT MORE OF Phuket Town’s unsightly overhead cables underground were finally completed last Sunday (Sept 4) 18 months after work started.

Boon rat Chareupong, Deputy Chief of Phuket Provincial Electricity Authority confirmed to The Phuket News on Monday (Sept 5) that work on pulling down the last three high-voltage electricity poles on Yaowarat Rd was completed last Sunday.

The most recent phase of the underground cable project on Yaowarat Rd started

on March 2, 2015 and was expected to take at least 180 days to complete.

The work, from the Suriyadej Traffic Circle (Water Fountain) until the junction with Dibuk Rd, cost around B108 million and includes improved electrical, telephone, telecommunications, water and infrastructure systems for PEA, TOT, CAT Telecom and the Phuket Town Municipality.

Mr Boonrat apologised to Phuket motorists and residents for the disruption the work may have caused.

Eakkapop Thongtub

Opinion 8

OPINION

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

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

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T

EDITORIAL

Greed before need

he announcement this week by Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada that the Highways Department had chosen the actual route the 12-lane expressway will take, at a cost of B5.5 billion, to ease traffic heading to and from Phuket Airport comes amid a horror week in Phuket road safety.

It is interesting to note that every Phuket Governor in office is involved in the announcement or rolling out of a multi-billionbaht mega-project, no matter how short is their term as Governor of Phuket. Governor Chamroen had the chance to be involved in this project just weeks before his term draws to a close on Sept 30.

The B5.5bn expressway is to include four lanes each way with a separate lane on each side for motorcycles and an independent track alongside in both directions specifically dedicated to bicycles. On paper

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the Safer Roads Foundation.

And that black spot, even in the middle of the old government quarter in Phuket Town, was not even a blip on The Phuket News’ radar as a dangerous site.

This is not to discount the deadly driving habits of Phuket motorists, which together with the current state of the roads, is strong evidence for the Darwinian theory of each species testing the boundaries of survival.

One suspects that the only publicly available reason for spending so much money on such a road harks back to the chaos caused by the Thalang riots which stifled traffic along Thepkrasattri Rd, resulting in scores of tourists missing their flights and one man dying while being transferred between hospitals by ambulance.

Obviously, in the eyes of the powers that be, such an embarrassment should never happen again.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

American woman fleeing sexual advances survives horror fall in Krabi Phuket driver charged for fatal collision after running red light Deadly deeds: Death of former Phuket Land chief lifts lid on island’s corrupt, murderous past Diver hit by boat propeller north of Phuket, boat captain sought by police Disabled man dies after jump from Phuket Hotel Bargains offered at Amlo Chinese tour company seized assets sell-off Phuket officials ordered to strictly enforce labour laws Phuket serial thieves arrested after theft from Japanese tourist bike Phuket taxi drivers get their way, no reduction in fares ‘World’s largest’ pearl emerges in Philippines

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

YOUR SAY

Lifestyle Editor

editor1@classactmedia.co.th From Melbourne, Australia, Mark holds a BA from La Trobe University where he completed a double major in Anthropology and Media Studies. He has over eight years experience as a journalist, photographer and editor for several magazines and newspapers.

and in CGI, it looks beautiful, but it must be placed in context beside the deafening silence from local officials about the lethal state of Phuket’s existing road infrastructure In terms of construction efficacy, we must keep in mind that the expressway announcement came as the Sam Kong Underpass passed well over a year beyond its initial completion date, with work still to be done.

One would hope that such extravagant funds would first be allocated to improving the current diabolical state of road safety in Phuket. Without putting any gloss on our hopes, the simple reality is: fat chance.

Phuket’s governing authorities couldn’t even spend B2.4 million on a roundabout where last year alone five motorists died and 36 motorists were injured in road accidents without receiving the funds from a UK-based road-safety charity,

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

A little knowledge can be a dangerous thing

Re: Foreign National Information Form I write to share a disturbing find after a recent trip to Phuket Immigration to deal with my wife’s visa.

No hassles or problems for us this trip, just a notification check in. However, I was asked to fill out the new Foreign National Information Form which has recently come into effect and has been commented on numerous times in the local papers.

I helped my wife fill out this form, and then when I looked on the back side, I discovered it was on recycled paper, and the reverse side was a copy of a bank letter from Kasikorn bank, to Immigration, giving the account and balance info of another individual, a foreigner.

So, I now have the full name of this individual, his bank, his bank account number, and his account balance on the date of the letter. And people are worried about Immigration having the info on this form? I think it is ludi-

crous that this other person’s bank details are just laying around. I sure would not, and do not want, my bank info laying around. This is private information that should not be in a stack of copy paper at Immigation. And this has been going on for years, not the first time.

Concerned Farang ..........................................................

Missing the forest for for the trees

Re: Phuket taxi drivers get their way, no reduction in fares I doubt that the PLTO read the comments section here, but on the offchance: Dear PLTO, on behalf of all tourists and residents on Phuket, both Thai and foreign, who have no choice but to use the taxis on the island, I would like to confirm for you that you have taken a huge backward step for Phuket here.

To allow Phuket to be held to ransom by this group of taxi drivers is a poor decision. Phuket needs a well thought out and integrated PUBLIC transport solution.

Phuket does not need a lightrail system or the current taxi

situation. What we need is a proper network of buses that are affordable and connect all the destinations that your residents and visitors need.

This will reduce congestion enourmously and will bring about a huge increase in road safety as the need to rely on dangerous motorbikes will be reduced. Just look at the new purple line in BKK, usage is way down on levels predicted as it doesnt integrate with other lines. So please; draw up a plan for a proper phuket wide bus and “saeng thaew” network, abolish 100% of the “green plate” taxis and tuk tuks and introduce a proper metered taxi service as found in Bangkok. By doing this you can save billions of road construction, save hundreds of lives a year and bring phuket up to being a proper global tourist destination.

Thank you.

Discover Thainess ...................................................

Damned lies and statistics

Re: Phuket driver charged for fatal collision after running red light.

If I’m not mistaken, this un-

fortunate event will not be considered a “Traffic Fatality” since he was not killed on the spot (or so they say), but died at the hospital from his injuries – so the man’s death will be labeled as “head trauma”.

I’m just waiting until the end of the year when Thai officials (e.g. Police) declare that their safety measures have led to a reduction in road fatalities.

I guess with the police force we have, the only way to reduce road fatalities is to alter how they count them.

Ed Sanders ....................................................

A simple solution?

Re: Diver hit by boat propeller north of Phuket, boat captain sought by police.

This type of accident happens every second week, with so many boats and so many people in the water.

Why do they not make the boats’ propellers have a cage around them to stop this happening? This would be easy to do and it will not not break the bank, but it would save terrible injury and in some cases death... slippery snake

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

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

THAILAND NEWS

9

Koh Pha Ngan airport Police seek cell footage developer seeks loans BANGKOK

SURAT THANI

T

he developer of the first airport on Koh Pha Ngan, home of the full-moon party, is seeking a capital injection of B1.5 billion to complete the facility.

Kannithi Aviation (KA), which operates commuter carrier Kan Air, is in talks with a few foreign financiers for soft loans to finish the airport, as costs have run up to about B2 billion.

President Somphong Sooksanguan said that the company had opted to acquire funds via loans rather than a joint venture to ensure that the project can proceed more smoothly.

The company is seeking foreign loans, which incur only 2 per cent annual interest compared with the 7% charged by local banks, to help drive project costs down, he said.

Kannithi Aviation is moving to tackle the financing issue in anticipation that Thai authorities will endorse the

A rendering of the proposed airport on Pha Ngan island, home of the full-moon party.

Numerous issues have delayed the airport’s opening. Image: via Bangkok Post environmental impact assessment (EIA), a major prerequisite for starting construction on such projects, by year-end.

The company has already spent some B500 million in acquiring about 200 rai of land on Thailand’s fifth-largest island, with some of the land grading said to have already been carried out.

Mr Somphong said the funds will go towards further land grading, building a passenger terminal capable of processing 1,000 passengers a day and a 1,095-metre runway which can accommodate turboprop aircrafts in the size range of the ATR 72-600 series.

If everything goes accord-

NBTC asked to ban suspects’ images BANGKOK THE NATIONAL BROADcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) are to enforce a prohibition on TV news broadcasts showing criminal suspects because it is a violation of civil rights, said deputy permanent secretary for justice Tawatchai Thaikiew.

The move followed Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s order prohibiting officials from parading suspects in line with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

The NBTC is the official broadcast censor, with full authority to ban radio, TV and wireless broadcasts, and to shut down stations without notice.

Mr Tawatchai said once brought to a news briefing, the suspects, as well as their families, would suffer damage to their reputations after their images appeared on the front pages of newspapers, although the cases against them might later be dismissed by the court.

He did not explain how broadcasters could show suspects if security forces are banned from bringing suspects to their briefings.

Gover nment agencies which have treated suspects @thephuketnews

Suspects trying to hide their faces at a police news briefing is a common sight but this may end with the prime minister’s new order. Photo: Bangkok Post this way include the army, Royal Thai Police, Department of Special Investigation, Office of Narcotics Control Board and Customs Department, he noted.

Mr Tawatchai, citing academic research, said the parading of suspects could cause unfavourable effects on them in the long run.

Police have said the purpose of the briefings is to keep the public informed of the progress of their investigations and for it to serve as a deterrent for future crimes. The media also want fresh stories and pictures for their news.

On police’s claim that they had done so with the consent from the suspects, Mr Tawatchai doubted whether it was possible since no one

would want to be shamed that way.

Mr Tawatchai also cited a case in Spain where a suspect filed a lawsuit against the media after he was acquitted by the court. He claimed the media, including Google, were ordered to remove his images from their content over the past 10 years.

Of note, he said the prime minister’s order did not prohibit authorities from publicising their work, only from parading the suspects.

However, violators of the order are subject to only disciplinary action and will not be charged with neglect of duty under Section 157 of the Criminal Code.

Bangkok Post

ing to plan, the airport will be up and running by the end of next year, he added.

The project, originally estimated at B900 million, has faced inflated costs, delays resulting from the EIA and other complications, which pushed back initial plans to open in 2014.

Once operations get un-

der way, the airport will be open to commercial airlines as well as Kan Air. It is set to provide direct air access to Koh Pha Ngan island for holidaymakers, especially international revellers attending the world-renowned full-moon party.

Currently visitors can only reach the island by ferry, either from Surat Thani, which is 55 kilometres away, or Koh Samui, which is 15km away.

Bangkok Airways operates an airport on Koh Samui, Thailand’s third-largest island.

Once it is completed and regular services are launched, Pha Ngan airport will siphon away some air traffic from Koh Samui, particularly foreign tourists heading for the full-moon party and those seeking a less crowded alternative to Samui.

Lying north of Koh Samui and two-thirds its size, Koh Pha Ngan has beautif ul beaches and less expensive accommodation than its neighbour.

Bangkok Post

POLICE HAVE ASKED the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) to submit images from a security camera next to the detention cell occupied by recently-deceased Phuket land office chief and land fraud suspect Tawatchai Anukul.

Investigators think the images might shed light on the cause of his mysterious death while in DSI custody.

Col Komsak Sumungkaset, deputy commander of Metropolitan Police Division 2, said that investigators submitted a letter to the DSI asking it to send images taken from a security camera outside the room where Mr Tawatchai was kept while in official custody.

Police believe the footage may have captured events that could shed light on whether Mr Tawatchai committed suicide or was the victim of foul play.

Bangkok Post

10 THAILAND NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Mother seeks help repatriating bodies BANGKOK

Government rice stock inspected. Photo: Bangkok Post

B20bn writs for rice deals ‘will be sent’ BANGKOK AN ADMINISTRATIVE order to demand B20 billion in compensation from former commerce minister Boonsong Teriyapirom and five other ex-officials linked to alleged bogus government-togovernment (G2G) rice deals will be signed in time before the statue of limitations on the case expires in February, Commerce Minister Apiradi Tantraporn insists.

Ms Apiradi said she needs time to consider the order carefully before signing it because it is a unique order and the rice-purchase deal was not common.

“This is a new issue and

it is necessary to study it thoroughly as it will set a precedent for any similar cases in the future,” Ms Apiradi said.

“The current government wants to fix irregularities which have occurred in the past,” said the minister.

She reassured those seeking action against the six officials that the order would be signed, saying: “It is our duty to do so and must be done. Please be patient.”

It is believed that six former Commerce Ministry officials are linked to the alleged fraudulent sale of pledged government rice to two Chinese trading companies.

Bangkok Post

T

he mother of Pimsiri Song-ngam last week sought help from the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women to bring back home the bodies of her daughter and her grandchild who were found dead in a house in Kirkenes, Norway.

Sarapee Song-ngam, 60, met foundation chairwoman Paveena Hongsakul at her office in Pathum Thani to ask for help in bringing back home the bodies of Pimsiri, 37, and Petch Song-ngam, 12.

She said she wanted to bring their bodies home to hold a funeral in Thailand.

Ms Sarapee said that she was told by one of Pimsiri’s friends that Pimsiri and Petch were found dead in a house in Kirkenes.

Pimsiri’s husband, a Norwegian national, is suspected of killing her and her son, who is from a previous marriage, Ms Sarapee said, adding he tried to commit suicide but police foiled the attempt.

Pimsiri Song-ngam and her Norwegian husband pose for a photo. Photo: Pongpat Wongyala The husband sustained severe gunshot wounds and was admitted to hospital for treatment, she added.

Ms Sarapee said Pimsiri divorced her ex-husband and married a Norwegian man she identified only as Hazzan and moved to Norway to live with him.

Pimsiri had worked as a custodian at a school and took her son from Thailand to live with her in Norway.

Pimsiri and her Norwegian husband had often argued about his drinking habit, she added.

Ms Sarapee said she had sought help from the Protection of Thai Nationals Abroad Division of the Consular Affairs Department which told her to wait as an investigation into the killing is under way.

Ms Paveena consoled Ms Sarapee as she was speaking to her.

Ms Paveena said she would ask the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to step up efforts to bring the bodies back home.

She would ask Interpol to help follow up on the investigation, she added.

Ms Paveena said she will take Ms Sarapee to meet the director-general of the Department of Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ask for help.

Bangkok Post

The seized ganja is shown at a press conference at the Border Police headquarters on Phahon Yothin Rd in Bangkok. Photo: Pornprom Satrabhaya

Three tonnes of ganja bound for Australia seized, two arrested CHONBURI BORDER PATROL POLICE arrested a Taiwanese national and a Thai man in a raid on a warehouse in Chonburi province last Sunday (Sept 4), Border Patrol Police (BPP) deputy commissioner Prapan Chan-em told a press conference on Monday (Sept 5).

Maj Gen Prapan identified the Taiwanese man as Chi J San, 64, and the Thai as Supornchai Chukaew, 44.

BPP Company 244 on Aug 23 learned that a large quantity

of marijuana had been smuggled across the border from the Bolikhamxay province of Laos to Muang district of Bung Kan province. The marijuana was later transported to a warehouse in Chonburi, to be smuggled to Australia, he said.

The information led to the raid on the warehouse in tambon Bo Kwang Thong in Chonburi’s Bo Thong district yesterday.

The BPP seized about 3 tonnes of marijuana.

The drug was sealed in packages, to be placed in boxes with labels declaring they

contained rubber gloves for medical use.

The Taiwanese man said he had opened a company in Chonburi in 2007 to export rubber gloves as a front for the drug trade.

He ordered the marijuana from Laos, to be delivered-on to a third country. Mr Supornchai, the Thai suspect, supervised the warehouse.

The two were charged with having illicit drugs in their possession with intent to sell.

The police investigation was continuing.

Bangkok Post thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

ASIA NEWS 11

Battle-scarred zoo roars back

Carnival of animal life brings joy to a capital city battered by war AFGHANISTAN

I

ts scarred lion Marjan was for years a symbol of Afghan survival.

Now, more than a decade after his death, Afghanistan remains battered by war but Kabul zoo is buzzing again – a haven for women, children and young lovers in a capital city that has little public space for anyone but men.

The carnival of animal life may be a mundane affair compared to other places, but it seems like an anomaly in Kabul, a war-scarred city benighted by post-traumatic stress, which still faces a high risk of insurgent attacks.

Men with children, women in blue burqas, crowds of young students – girls and boys – come to this haven to relax.

“My wife and I have come here to take a break and forget our pain and sorrows,” explains Mohammad Ali Akbari, a resident of southern Ghazni province, one of the worst hit

Children touch a statue of Marjan the lion, who died in 2002 and is now buried at Kabul zoo. Photo: Wakil Kohsar/AFP by the Taliban insurgency.

“My wife is a bit sick. I brought her here so she can breathe fresh air and enjoy the normal things of life,” he adds, as his wife gazes at a bear inside a cage.

Children peer through a wire mesh fence, amused by monkeys swinging their tails and frolicking from one tree to another, as some of them imitate their whoops and barks.

Loud music emanates from the zoo canteen near an aviary with pheasants and other birds, as families huddled in conversation around burgers, fries and canned sodas.

Other picnickers seek respite from the scorching afternoon heat under the shade of trees, while enjoying platters of cantaloupe, honeydew and watermelon.

Blushing young lovers sit on a bench opposite the ga-

zelle cage, seeking an escape from prying eyes in a city where harassment is otherwise commonplace.

The Kabul zoo – the only one in the country – is located in the heart of the Afghan capital, surrounded by a dense warren of muddy flat-topped houses.

Before the 1992-1995 civil war, the zoo was home to many exotic animals.

But most of them were

either killed or escaped as mortar rounds slammed into the zoo during fighting, leaving only a bear with a nose injured by children who jabbed it with a stick, a scattering of monkeys, an assortment of birds of prey – and Marjan, the showpiece lion who was blinded by a grenade blast in 1993.

Many of the smaller and tamer animals, such as sheep and goats, were stolen for food. More exotic creatures, such as rare species of birds, were sold on the black market or smuggled out of the country.

The zoo has since undergone a slow and painful reconstruction, now housing around 600 animals, many of them gifted by countries such as India and China.

“It is now more than a zoo,” said Aziz Gul Saqib, who has served as director for more than a decade.

“Families feel safe here.

They see the zoo as a place for rejuvenation,” he said, adding that last year more

than 700,000 people visited the zoo, including 50,000 students.

The zoo, he said, earned 17 million Afghanis (B86.9mn) last year from ticket sales and other revenues, making it self-sustainable.

It is equipped with hi-tech surveillance cameras and loudspeakers – often used to chide those who tease the animals.

“It is very important to teach people about wildlife because exotic animals in Afghanistan are on the verge of extinction,” Saqib said.

Marjan was seen as a symbol of Afghanistan’s national survival after living through coups, invasions, the grenade attack which scarred his face and blinded him, civil war and the hardline Taliban era which ended in 2001.

He died in 2002 and is now buried in the zoo, but his bronze statue greets visitors at the entrance with many visitors posing beside it for selfies and photographs.

AFP

Inside Nepal’s forgotten medieval kingdom NEPAL IN NEPAL’S ISOLATED, high-altitude desert of Upper Mustang, a new road to China is bringing economic transformation to the former Buddhist kingdom, once a centre for trans-Himalayan commerce.

The remote region is ringed with vast canyons and red mountains that, legends say, are stained with the blood of a demon killed by the founder of Tibetan Buddhism.

Yet the recently completed unpaved highway that con-

@thephuketnews

nects Upper Mustang with China is also bringing unprecedented cultural change to a region that was closed off to foreign visitors until 1992.

In the medieval walled capital of Lo Manthang, young men have swapped Tibetan robes for blue jeans and local cafes broadcast live coverage of English Premier League matches to rapt viewers.

Nevertheless, while modern life holds considerable allure for many, the push to preserve traditional culture is no less important to the local Loba community. Buddhists who speak a variant of the

Tibetan language, they have lived in Upper Mustang for centuries.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the ongoing effort to restore sacred murals and monuments, supported by foreign and Nepali non-profit organisations, including the Lo Gyalpo Jigme Foundation, which is headed by the former king of Upper Mustang.

Although the region’s rich heritage escaped the ravages of the Cultural Revolution that hit neighbouring China, its monuments fell prey to environmental damage.

Wind and rain eroded mud

walls and caused wooden rooftop beams to decay, while smoke from ceremonial butter lamps darkened indoor frescos.

Over the last decade, restorers have been working hard to shore up structures, clean murals and retouch damaged paintings in line with Buddhist beliefs.

Buddhists believe it is better to pray to undamaged images of the Buddha, and see it as their duty to repair and retouch them when necessary.

The painstaking process involves grinding gemstones like lapis lazuli and malachite

Nepalese artists restore sacred murals in a monastery in Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang. Photo: AFP into a fine powder, which is then mixed with water and animal glue to create luminous pigments fit for gods.

After last year’s massive earthquake killed nearly 9,000 in Nepal and severely damaged monasteries in Lo

Manthang, restorers now face an even bigger challenge.

Like many here, they too are locked in a race to preserve Upper Mustang’s unique cultural legacy for future generations.

AFP

12 WORLD NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Tattoo art for bag designs

Rehabilitation project pays inmates to draw designs for luxury items MEXICO

S

itting in a Mexican prison’s library, murder convict David Guzman tattooed a skull on a leather patch for a designer handbag to be sold in a luxury shop.

Guzman, 34, took drugs and stole at a young age, falling into a “nefarious” world that landed him in prison, but five years into his murder sentence, he appeared at peace as he drew the skeletal figure.

His work is part of a rehabilitation project called Prison Art, which pays inmates to draw designs for purses that sell for $400 (B13,974) at highend stores in Mexico City and other towns.

Guzman lobbied to bring the project to the Tulancingo prison, in central Hidalgo state, where several other inmates use makeshift tattoo ink needles to paint birds, butterflies, tigers and, especially, skulls on leather patches.

“My stubbornness was due to my need” to care for two children, the slim convict said as he sat with a dozen male

Prison Art is part of a rehabilitation project which pays prison inmates in Mexico to draw designs for handbags that sell for $400 (B13,974) at high-end stores in Mexico City and other towns. Photo: Pedro Pardo/AFP and female inmates making designs in the prison library.

The prisoners, young and old, usually work on their bunk beds in dormitories that hold up to 100 people, or sitting on plastic containers in communal spaces in a prison ranked fifth worst for overcrowding and insalubrity by the National Human Rights Commission.

They use homemade tattooing equipment made out of a pen, a needle and a little motor powered by a cellphone charger. The inmates use the same apparatus to tattoo their skin, despite the health risks.

“This makes the days shorter. I don’t even know what time it is,” said Ezequiel Perez, a 24-year-old whose muscular

arms are covered in tattoos.

“I have breakfast, I eat lunch and I do this the rest of the day,” said Perez, who is serving time for a double murder.

Eighteen inmates were chosen at the Tulancingo prison to participate in Prison Art. The only condition for taking part in the project, which was cre-

ated by a private foundation, is to stay off drugs, attend detox therapy and give half the earnings to relatives.

Most of the prison’s 550 inmates work in the carpentry and craft shops, but they struggle to sell their creations on the outside. They need money to buy soap, toothpaste or toilet paper.

But Prison Art pays inmates up to $400 per month for several patches of leather and puts them in a re-integration programme that can lead to a job outside making the purses once they are released.

“My family often doesn’t have anything to give me.

This is a source of work,” said Leonor Reyes, a 48-year-old embroiderer and mother of six, in jail for stealing jewellery.

Jorge Cueto, the creator of Prison Art, served 11 months in a western Mexican prison in 2012 on fraud charges until he was found innocent and released.

Prison Art is now more than two years old, employing 240 inmates in six prisons.

“Mexican prisons are not crime universities. It is society

that’s forcing young men who come out to return to crime because they lack opportunities, which also makes them easy recruiting targets for organised crime groups inside prison,” said Cueto, a Mexican of Spanish origin.

The handbags are sold in the capital’s ritzy Polanco district, the colonial town of San Miguel de Allende and the Caribbean coast resort of Playa del Carmen, as well as on the internet.

Now Cueto plans to go international and open shops in the United States, London and the Spanish island of Ibiza.

“Society has the option of helping. The idea is to have a product of such quality and taste that people will want it,” he said.

Back in the Tulancingo prison library, Pedro Eulalio Vera, an accused kidnapper, put the finishing touches to a design.

“If people like it, maybe they’ll say, ‘I want him to do something special for me.’ And, for me, this would be something great, no?” Vera said.

AFP

London marks Great Fire anniversary UNITED KINGDOM A MASSIVE WOODEN REPlica of 17th century London was torched last Sunday (Sept 4) on the River Thames to mark the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of London, which paved the way for the building of the modern city.

Onlookers crowded along the river that winds through the British capital to watch as the 120-metre long wooden model was set alight.

Spectators snapped photographs on their smartphones as the flames devoured the replica buildings floating on the water.

The torching of the model of London – as it stood on September 2, 1666 – was executed by US “burn artist” David Best and live streamed online.

The Great Fire started in Thomas Farrinor’s bakery on Pudding Lane and raged until September 5, destroying 80 per cent of the mostly wooden, walled inner city.

An estimated 70,000 of the 80,000 residents were rendered homeless by the disaster. By the time the fire was extinguished a total of 13,200 houses, 87 parish churches

A replica of 17th-century London on a barge floating on the river Thames burns in an event to mark the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of London last Sunday (Sept 4). Photo: Justin Tallis/AFP and Saint Paul’s Cathedral had been destroyed.

The London of today, with its characteristic English Baroque architecture in grey Portland stone, was built from the ashes of the wooden city, though the old street layout was retained to respect property rights.

Recreating the fire last Sunday was part of a wider series of events to mark the anniversary of the inferno, celebrating the city’s ability to rebuild and thrive.

Nick Bodger, head of cultural and visitor development for the City of London, said that the capital’s resilience – witnessed again during the 1940s Blitz – had helped it

rebuild and survive.

“350 years ago, when embers from a baker’s oven sparked one of the most catastrophic events the capital has ever witnessed, London’s economic prowess almost came to a fiery end,” he told reporters in the run-up to the anniversary.

“A renewed sense of purpose saw the great city we enjoy today rise from those ashes, develop and thrive.”

The London’s Burning programme saw flames being projected onto Saint Paul’s Cathedral – one of the capital’s most iconic monuments which was completed 44 years after the Great Fire.

AFP thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

BUSINESS NEWS 13

Leopards Cats on the prowl MARINE

The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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oat enthusiasts across the island will have the chance to view first-hand more than B104 million in leisure craft when Leopard Catamarans holds its inaugural Open House at Ao Po Grand Marina, on Phuket’s east coast, early next month.

The event is primarily aimed at dealers throughout Asia-Pacific to view and show clients the new fleet, available for charter or sale, which only recently arrived in Phuket – but the event will be free for the public to enjoy, explained Shoongiat (“just call me ‘Kit’”) Chotithamaporn, Leopard Catamarans’ Yacht Sales Manager-Asia, based in Phuket.

“The Leopard Catamarans Open House is being held for two reasons. First is to offer all our dealers in the Asia region to fly in for a training day to get everyone up to speed with the latest happenings in the company, the full range of boats available, the company’s principles, views and direction,” Kit explained.

@thephuketnews

The Leopard 43 Powercat will be one of the formidable catamarans on show.

“Obviously with the boats on display as well, it gives our dealers a chance to go onboard and spend time to see, feel, and understand the latest models available.

It’s the best way for them to understand the products and be able to convey that understanding to their clients.

“The second reason is to also have our dealers invite all their potential buyers that have shown interest in a Leopard Catamaran a chance to fly in and view the boats in person for a good feel as well as for sea trials to see the performance of a Leopard Catamaran and to help them in making their decision.

“Residents and visitors to Phuket are also invited to come by and view the boats,” he added.

Leopa rd Cat a ma r a n s moved its Asia regional head office from Hong Kong to Ao Po Grand Marina in Phuket exactly one year ago, and now offer the Leopard 40, Leopard 45 (only launched two weeks ago), Leopard 48, and Leopard 58 sailing catamarans along with the Leopard 43 Powercat and Leopard 51 Powercat as fully powered cruising cats “Sunsail and The Moorings are investing heavily into the Phuket base and updating the charter f leet. Leopard Catamarans have proven to

be very popular and successful in the charter market so there will only be Leopard Catamarans coming to Phuket for the charter fleet,” noted Kit, a Phuket native born at Mission Hospital who has lived abroad for many years, including a decade in Canada.

“The Leopard 40 and 43 Powercat are new models launched last year so naturally they are selected to be in the fleet. The Leopard 48 and 51 Powercat have been around for a few years now and proven to be very successful worldwide with the Leopard 48 being crowned best sailing catamaran by Cruising World magazine.

There is also the one Leopard 51 Powercat arriving at the same time that is available for sale.” he added.

The full fleet once landed will have an estimated value of more than US$7 million (more than B243 million).

“Leopard Catamarans are built by the renowned Robertson & Caine shipyard in Cape Town, South Africa, and my role as the Asia regional manager is to support our dealers in Asia or direct sales if there is no dealer in the particular country. We are able to offer buyers and owners full support from initial contact to sales and full after sales service,” explained Kit. “Leopard Catamarans are also part of the same company as Sunsail and The Moorings, the two largest charter companies in the world, so we are able to offer bareboat and crewed charters from our base in Ao Po Grand Marina or anywhere in the world with a Sunsail/Moorings base as well as our very attractive and hassle free ownership programs with Sunsail and The Moorings,” he added.

Leopard Catamarans are renowned as blue-water cruising catamarans well known

for being delivered on their own bottom from Cape Town, South Africa, to destinations worldwide, noted Kit. On display at the Open House will be the brandnew and recently launched Leopard 40 sailing catamaran and Leopard 43 Powercat along with the award-winning Leopard 48 and Leopard 51 Powercat. The combined value of all four boats will be in the region of over US$3 million.

“There will also be a brand-new Leopard 51 Powercat available for sale immediately at a special price if purchased during the Open House event. This is a great opportunity to own a brandnew fully optioned Leopard 51 Powercat without having to wait nine to 12 months for delivery,” said Kit. The Open House will be open to the public from 1pm to 7pm over the weekend of Oct 1 and 2.

“Live 89.5 will be broadcasting live from Ao Po Grand Marina during the event, so drop by and say hi,” Kit said.

“Feel free to drop by and have a good look at the boats and if you’re serious enough then a sea trial is also available,” he invited.

14 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

New highs in the US stock markets

Are the record-setting highs as good as they seem for investing?

PHUKET EXPAT FINANCE

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oth the DOW and the S&P 500 have recently toyed with new highs.

Some investors think this market is a free-flow party, and they fully intend to stay drunk forever. Others have already stumbled home and are bracing for the hangover to come.

So what is the truth of it? Are new stock market highs good news or bad news?

As usual, the opposing camps find little to agree on, and the man on the street is often left to decipher the conflicting data for himself. The recovery since the US markets bottomed in 2009 has certainly helped to rebuild many private investors’ portfolios, but has it also planted the seeds of false hope?

Is it still possible that we could see another incarnation of the 2008 financial crisis play out, whereby investors once more see their portfolios turn an ugly shade of crimson?

All in all, new highs don’t necessarily mean a lot in and of themselves. After a protracted downturn, the subsequent rebound may bring fresh highs.

Likewise, a period of gradual upward movement in stocks – over a period of years (rather than months) may see previous highs eclipsed. But as any casual market watcher knows, sustained upward movements in the markets are always interspaced with short to mediumterm corrections of different

At the closing bell, the Dow Jones Industrial Average stood at a record 18,636.05, up 0.3 percent, on August 15, 2016. Photo: AFP / Drew Angerer magnitudes, and of course the occasional crash.

Yet every now and then we also see markets move sideways – sometimes for many years on end. Historically this has meant that some markets reaching new highs, are essentially at the same level they were 10-15 years – or even as much as 25 years – earlier.

While it is not always clear, there are some clues as to whether such a new rise is sustainable.

Where are stocks in relation to their short-term, intermediate or secular cycles? When was the last crash or major correction?

What are the current fundamentals of the market (that is, are valuations on the low side or the high side)? What other technical or fundamental indicators are screaming buy or sell?

Some studies show that every time a market reaches a new high, the following 12 months’ returns are better than the his-

torical average. This may be true during an extended secular bull market, but considering that new highs are often seen just before every market crash, it is not a reliable barometer. An investor who follows this strategy will eventually get the timing wrong and invest very close to the peak. The Dotcom Bubble in 2000 and the Financial Crisis in 2008 are prime examples of investors being burned at the top of the market.

The pundits and talking heads on financial channels are assigned such gravitas today that it is difficult to ignore their prognostications. However, believing the TV hype that new highs point to a sure thing can end in heartbreak for inexperienced investors.

What the aforementioned studies fail to point out is that, while returns over 12 months following a new high may be attractive, the risk of a pending

correction has been exacerbated considerably. So any committed “buy and hold” investor may have a good 12 months after a market high, but could then be in for some painful red ink not long thereafter.

Markets are typically prevented from perpetually making new highs by corrections, or even crashes. Equity markets have always moved in longterm cycles, typically ranging from extremely overvalued to undervalued. When shares rise over many years it is called a secular bull market. When they are falling, or are erratic, over a long time period (which is where we been since the peak in year 2000) we refer to this as a secular bear market. While some argue that markets have been making higher highs, these have been at the expense of continued lofty valuations, which must come down at some point for a new cycle to begin.

At our current point in the economic cycle, new highs certainly aren’t as attractive as they are in a secular bull market. In the entire history of US stock markets, a “buy and hold” bull market has never started at current valuation levels. An environment such as the one that existed in 1982 – the start of an 18-year period of rising markets – began from extremely low, single-digit price/earnings valuations. By contrast, the P/E Ratio of the S&P 500 Index today is 24.71.

Warren Buffet, probably the world’s most respected investor, gauges market valuations using the ratio of total US equity market capitalisation to US GDP as the gauge of where valuations stand at any given moment. At 126 per cent, it currently sits at a level which has historically pointed to overvaluation (for the mathematically inclined, 126% is 2 standard deviations above the mean). It is also nearing a level seen at previous market tops… prior to crashes.

Incidentally, this figure stood at only 35% at the beginning of the 1982 before the markets began an 18-year bull market.

This valuation method indicates anything but stellar stock performance in the years ahead.

One key contributor to the bear market bounce we have seen since 2009 has been historically low interest rates. It is therefore important to ask: will we see interest rates rise? Higher rates usually exert downward pressure on markets, so all investments will almost certain see a signifi-

cant correction in the event of a government rate rise.

Either way, one fact is unmistakable: this low interest rate environment is driving investors to seek returns from stocks – even at current valuations – because there is no yield (or in some cases negative yield) to be had from bonds or fixed income. How long this can continue is anyone’s guess.

Could we see valuations actually reach or eclipse those seen in 2000 (151% of GDP by the “Buffet Calculation”)?

By almost any valuation methodology, stocks appear to be relatively expensive today, not cheap. And if corporate earnings begin to slow, things will begin to look even worse. But just because we have survived a historically long spell without a major correction or crash, does not necessarily mean that one is imminent.

The economic and geopolitical environment in which we find ourselves today is unique, so anything could happen. Stock markets are a strange animal, and have always proven to be excruciatingly irrational, going out of their way to do the opposite of what most rational human beings think they should.

Anything is possible. And for the time being, the markets continue to confound the socalled experts.

For more information and expert advice about investing in stock markets, email Phuket Expat Finance at chatwithus@ phuketexpatfinance.com

Hotel giant Wyndham to open second venue in Patong SOUTHEAST ASIA’S INaugural Wyndham Grand location will debut in Phuket later this year, thanks to a management agreement recently signed between Parisorn Company Ltd and the world’s largest hospitality company,

Wyndham Hotel Group.

The Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay is scheduled to open just north of Patong Beach in November.

Club Wyndham Asia, a part of the Wyndham Vacation Ownership business, has also

signed an agreement subject to specified requirements which once complete, will give Club Wyndham Asia members access to apartments at the resort.

Each of the resort’s 214 guestrooms provide sea views

over Patong Bay, with the 48-square-metre standard rooms offering guests a full suite of in-room amenities.

Each of the resort’s 152 pool villas, more than any other resort in the KalimPatong area, will feature a private outdoor sundeck and a six- or nine-metre infinity pool overlooking the ocean.

The resort will become hotel giant Wyndham’s sec-

An artist’s impression of the Wyndham Grand. ond resort in Phuket, as the Wyndham Sea Pearl Resort Phuket, located to the south in Patong, was launched to

much fanfare in June last year.

“Wyndham Grand hotels are located in some of the world’s most sought after destinations, including Shanghai, Istanbul, Chicago and now Phuket,” said Barry Robinson, President and Managing Director of Wyndham Hotel Group South East Asia and Pacific Rim. “The brand’s premium offerings and distinctive experiences create a perfect platform to deliver our unique mixed-use model to travellers looking for an approachable take on luxurious travel in Thailand.

The Phuket News thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Phuket Aquarium’s new attractions set to open

17

Roaming the dusty temple trails in Bagan

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SAFE TRAVELS

Australia’s first Consul-General in Phuket begins his new role with a campaign to encourage Aussies to behave in the air > p19

@thephuketnews

16 HEALTH

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Swimming against the tide How much lifeguards can – and cannot – do to save you from drowning SAFE WATERS Chanida Summast life@novostiphuketa.com

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adly, at this time of year we receive almost weekly reports of people drowning or being rescued in the turbulent wetseason waters of Phuket’s Andaman coast. These reports continue with alarming regularity despite the best efforts of members of the Phuket Lifeguard Service. To get a clearer understanding of what lifeguards can and can’t do when foolhardy swimmers put themselves at risk, we decided to speak to Phuket Lifeguard Service Chief, Prathaiyuth Chuayuan.

What can lifeguards do if a tourist enters dangerous waters?

We can warn them verbally and with hand gestures to tell them that it is a dangerous area. Sometimes lifeguards use a whistle to signal a warning and try to get them to move out of the dangerous water.

Can lifeguards call police to assist them if people ignore their warnings?

Yes, lifeguards can call for help from the police, because people respect the police in uniform and believe them.

For example, a few years ago at Kata Beach, we had many problems with people drowning and needing to be rescued. The tourists were just not listening to us, but then we got help from

Language barriers are one of the biggest problems faced by Phuket’s lifeguards the police to tell them that they cannot swim in the dangerous areas.

into trouble while swimming at the beach?

What people can do if they see people that need help in the water and there is no lifeguard on duty?

Karon Beach is probably the worst for drowning and rescues, and it seems that people from about 27 years old through to 55 get into trouble most often. Russian tourists are probably the worst offenders, maybe it’s because they cannot speak English, but often the will just ignore warnings and swim anyway.

Chinese tourists often don’t understand what the lifeguards are trying to tell them. Sometimes we have to just point to the red flag and use body language to try to warn them. Although now, some of the Patong Beach lifeguards can speak a little bit of Chinese and Russian, so this is improving.

The first thing you can do is yell for help, and hopefully someone can alert a lifeguard in the area. If you get no response, you can try to throw a rope or something that floats so they can grab onto it. You should also call the police emergency numbers 1169 or 1555, or get someone to call for you. You can also call the Tourist Police on 1155 and talk to someone in English.

How often do people ignore lifeguard warnings and red flags to go swimming in dangerous surf?

In Patong, we find that about 1520 per cent of people ignore or do not understand lifeguard warnings. We find that about the same percentage of Russian tourists will understand the lifeguard’s warning but choose to ignore it and swim anyway. We also find that about 10% of Chinese tourists have trouble understanding the meaning of the red “No Swimming” flags. Perhaps 5% of all people on the beach at first do not understand the warnings and that they cannot swim, but usually they realise in a day or two that the beaches are closed for their safety.

Which beaches have the highest incidents of rescues or drownings, and are there any common factors linking the people that get

Are lifeguards allowed to use force to stop people swimming on closed beaches?

We do not have the legal power to stop people from entering the water, but if a lifeguard can clearly see that it is very risky for them to enter the water, then we will physically stop them.

We can also call the police to have them order someone to leave the beach

if they keep ignoring our warnings.

If lifeguards warn a person not to go in the water, and the person ignores them and ends up in trouble and needs rescuing, are lifeguards obliged to try to save that person?

We would never refuse to help someone that is drowning. Even if we have told them many times not to go into the water, if they get into trouble, we will rescue them. Sometimes it seems that tourists do not value their own lives, but as lifeguards it is our duty to protect these people from themselves.

Do you have a general safety message for everyone who goes to the beach in Phuket?

We want to work to communicate better with all tourists to help them understand the dangers of the beach.

We would like there to be more signs in different languages at the airport to inform tourists. They could say something like, “Swim only between the red and yellow flags and enjoy your holiday in Phuket.” We also want to encourage tour guides to inform their tourists about beach safety.

Students make safer sex packs

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n Wednesday, August 31, more than 300 students from the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism at Prince of Songkla University gathered to assemble “safer sex” packs to distribute free to the community.

The packs are part of a HIV Awareness Reduction Programme organised by the Phuket Loves You (PLU) charity and sponsored by the Karex Berhad (company), who generously donated 100,000 condoms and lubricant packets to PLU this year.

The condoms and lubricant were packed into individual bags, along with safer sex messages in Thai and the contact details for the Sabaidee Clinic in Patong. Over 24,000 packs were assembled in just three hours by students from 17 nationalities, setting a new PLU record.

Ian Phillips, Chairman of the PLU, said, “The provision of free condoms and safer sex information is one of the cornerstones of our community projects. This project also brought together people from PLU, PSU, the Phuket

PSU students made 24,000 ‘safer sex’ packs.

Provincial Health Authority and Sabai Dee Clinic to make it happen.

“Hopefully, having so many students involved will raise their awareness of safer sex and make them feel more comfortable about discussing the issues. None of this would have been possible without the very generous support of Karex Berhad, who to date have donated over 180,000 condoms and lube packs.

For more information about Phuket Loves You Visit: phuket-pride.org thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Splashing out

COMMUNITY 17

Aquarium spends B79m on expansion The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

Blueprints showing the layout of the aquarium’s new buildings

The geometrically angled ‘Aqua Dome’ houses a ‘fog-screen’ cinema where images of marine life will be projected in 360 degrees.

@thephuketnews

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huket Aquarium is about to enter a new era with a B79.7 million expansion underway, slated for completion by the end of this year.

While the final plans have yet to be hammered out, The Phuket News has learned that the popular marine-life centre will include an “Aqua Dome” curved-screen walk-in amphitheatre cinema with fog-screen technology to showcase impressive educational light-andsound displays.

“We are expanding our facility by adding three more zones for visitors to explore when they visit Phuket Aquarium,” explained Ratree Suksuwan, chief of the facility.

“The building itself, located to the left of the existing centre, has been completed, but we need to make some adjustments to the feature programmes, landscaping, interior design and the drop-off area,” she said.

“Admission for the first three months will be free, after that we will decide how much entry will be,” Ms Ratree added.

On entering the new centre, visitors will pass through a souvenir shop before entering an area with traditional-style displays to educate visitors on a wide variety of marine life.

“The path through the new building will lead visitors to the ocean hall, called the ‘Aqua Dome’. This dome will actually be a walk-in cinema using fogscreen technology that will show people life in the oceans,” Ms Ratree added.

“The visitors will be nearly entirely surrounded by the images and sounds projected within the dome to

The aquarium’s residents will likely see increased visitor numbers once the new attractions open. give them an idea of what it is like to actually be in the middle of the ocean.

The “movies” to be displayed will show many forms of marine life, from micro-organisms and animals such as plankton up to large marine mammals, including whales,” she said.

“The cinema will feature a documentary showing life in the deep ocean, at depths of up to 2,000 metres, and the main feature will show the journey and adventures of sea turtles,” Ms Ratree said.

While the new building receives its finishing touches, the existing centre, built in 1978 and open to public since 1983, will continue to offer its popular educational tours.

“Phuket Aquarium was established in 1983 as part of the internationally renowned Phuket Marine Biological Centre (PMBC), a research and moni-

toring station within the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR).

The aquarium provides means to divulge research results and to promote environmental awareness,” Ms Ratree explained.

“Initially we wanted to open the new centre in June this year, but after the many changes and delays we now hope it will be complete and open by the end of the year,” Ms Ratree said Phuket Aquarium is located at the end of Cape Panwa, southeast of Phuket Town. Open 8:30am-4:30pm; entry gates close at 4pm. Entry fees: Foreigners – Adult B180 / Child B100; Thais – Adults B50 (citizens over 60 years old free) / Child B20. *All children under 180cm tall free. See: PhuketAquarium. org/en

18 CULTURE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Why Me? A question for the ages Taking a Buddhist approach to dealing with depression and melancholy ALL ABOUT BUDDHISM Jason A. Jellison mitnoy@live.com

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hy Me? It’s a question that many people ask themselves. In fact, I’d wager every person walking this Earth has asked themselves that questionat least once. A wise singer once intoned his Western-tinged insight on this eternal question: “Hard times come, hard times go and in between you hope and pray the scars don’t show. Cause life is strange and so unsure; you’re really not alone you know, ‘cause everybody says, why me?”

Although poetic and sage, this lyric doesn’t quite answer the question. In the West, Charles Darwin probably got the closest to providing an answer. One day, as Darwin was studying the wonderous creatures on the isolated shores of the Galapagos Islands, he pondered how so many and varied forms of life could be found in such an remote location.

The answer that he struck upon was that all life needs resources to live.

However, he extrapolated, left to their own devices any singular species would eventually exhaust all of its resources.

Therefore, competition is a necessary part of life, preventing one species from dominating and thus having nothing to

Studying the Galapagos’ tortoises gave Darwin an insight into the nature of life. Photo by Sara Yeomans stop it from consuming all its resources.

The answer that narrowly escaped Darwin’s clutches could be found in the East. Buddha actually answered this question with the most critical insight on life ever discovered by man. The answer to “why me?” is this: The very conditions that give rise to life are the same conditions that give rise to suffering.

In other words, life is suffering. I know that many Westerners might angrily reject this theory and decry it as harsh. They will brand this idea with the words fatalistic or cynical. They will claim that life is a happy place and that you should always look on the bright side of life.

Buddha would argue that you should simply see life as it is; not how you wish it to be. The Christian Bible got it right when it declared that, left to his own devices, man would destroy himself. On a more base level, Darwin also got it right when he realised that one form of life cannot exist as a lone, solitary tenant on Earth. The only part where either source went awry was in failing to walk this further intellectual step: If competition is required to regulate life, then suffering is inevitable.

Buddhists believe that we suffer because we live. We tend to think that the only way to end the suffering is to exit the circle of life. Exiting the circle of life

means exiting the cycle of rebirth... and therein lies the rub. You see, Buddhists believe that life is not a one-shot deal. As a Buddhist, I believe that we keep coming back here until we get it right. By getting it right, I mean finding Enlightenment. The cycle of rebirth is called samsara and it holds that death is not the end of life. It is simply the end of the body.

Much like buying a car, the next “vehicle” we get all depends on what we have to spend. We accumulate currency towards our next body based on the sum total of the actions we took in the previous body. Much as in capitalism, we can choose to either invest wisely or dwindle it all away. Often, Westerners get the answer to this question wrong. We fail to see that life’s many tragedies are part and parcel of man’s very existence.

Some people conclude that suicide is an easy way to end the pain, but if you are thinking of jumping from a tall building I must ask you a question: Did it ever dawn on you that you may simply jump only to land here yet again?

There is no short-cutting the system.

If you try to block the circle of rebirth, it will steamroll you straight into the pavement. The inevitable end of your life is simply its start anew. Life is a serenade of change and in that singsong a sole, benevolent voice warbles right: Although you’re suffering now, your luck could change overnight.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

PEOPLE 19

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

A helping hand for Aussies

Our exclusive interview with Phuket’s first Australian Consul-General

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n August 4 this year, Craig Ferguson was appointed as Australia’s first Consul-General in Phuket, with jurisdiction throughout the provinces of Phuket, Krabi and Phang Nga. Mr Ferguson is a career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and has previously served in Shanghai, Brasilia and New Delhi.

With as many as 5,000 Australians calling Phuket home and 900,000 visiting Thailand as tourists each year, his new post is set to be a busy one. The Phuket News spoke with Mr Ferguson about what services and assistance the new Consulate-General office can provide to Australians living in or visiting Phuket.

What’s the difference between an Honorary Consul and a ConsulGeneral?

As the name suggests, Honorary Consuls represent a country’s interests on a voluntary or unpaid basis, whereas a Consul-General is a full-time professional diplomatic position. Australia’s interests in Phuket were served very well by Larry Cunningham OAM from 2007 to 2013 and then by Michelle Hawryluk after that. Considering the amount of work our Honorary Consuls were doing in Phuket, the Australian government recognised that it was time to expand our diplomatic footprint here.

This reflected the strength of the bilateral relationship Australia has with Thailand as well as the number of Australians that holiday here or call Phuket home. Our upgraded diplomatic presence in Phuket now means there are expanded consular and passport services available to Australians in this part of Thailand.

What services does the ConsulateGeneral in Phuket provide that were not available in Phuket before?

The new Consulate-General has a full-time staff of five and we are open and available Monday to Friday in dedicated diplomatic premises. Resident Aussies will be happy to learn that we can now provide full Australian passport services in Phuket.

Previously, Australians had to travel to Bangkok, or wait until the Embassy scheduled an outreach visit to Phuket.

Now we can issue new passports and replace expired, full or lost passports for Australian citizens. Ordinary passports are ready to be collected within three

weeks (and often it is quicker). We can issue emergency passports for Australians who may have lost their passport and need to travel urgently.

We are also seeing a strong demand for our notarial and document legalisation services such as witnessing Statutory Declarations or other legal documents. We offer all these services, by appointment, at the new ConsulateGeneral premises. Where fees are payable, we collect these by credit card only, as we are a fully cashless office.

Visas for travel to Australia will continue to be handled by the Australian Embassy Bangkok.

How many Australians live in Phuket?

The figures can vary depending on how “live in Phuket” is defined, and of course, what type of Thai visa is held.

But talking to Thai officials and longterm residents on the island we believe the number sits somewhere between 3,000 and 5,000.

What work is commonly involved when providing assistance to Australians in Phuket?

Australians are keen travellers and adventure seekers and it’s no doubt that Phuket is a place to come for some sunshine, relaxation and fun. Most Australians have a great time here but a number will find themselves in difficult situations.

The Consulate regularly becomes involved in cases of Australians being injured or unwell, victims of crime, lost passports, welfare issues and missing persons. In the most unfortunate cases we help when there has been the death of an Australian. Providing Consular Services means we spend a lot of time at hospitals, police stations, jail, courts and hotels.

In cases where Australians are accused of breaking Thai law, we do not give legal advice or intervene in local judicial proceedings. But we do take a close interest in the progress of the case, encourage Australians to seek independent local legal advice, and where necessary, and with the consent of the individual involved, act as a point of contact for family or friends back in Australia.

Many Australians do not understand that overseas legal and other processes can be substantially different from those in Australia. When Consular Assistance is called upon, there may be limitations to what can be done and Australians should have realistic expectations about this.

What pre-emptive measures does the Consulate take to help protect travellers?

Including Mr Ferguson, the Consulate-General has five full-time staff members ready to assist Australian citizens. @thephuketnews

Our Smartraveller campaign encourages Australians to take responsibility for their travel decisions. We’re trying to help Australians plan ahead and prepare for their safety when they travel. Recently we launched a new graphic

Craig Ferguson was appointed on August 4 by Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop. encouraging Australians to “Stay Classy in the Air” (see ‘Life’ cover, p15)

What is the most important advice you have for expats and travellers to Phuket?

• Subscribe to the Australian Government’s travel advice updates and register at: smartraveller.gov.au • Travel insurance, or medical insurance is absolutely essential. As the saying goes, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel!

• When emergency situations occur, such as the recent bombings in southern Thailand, Australians should follow the

instructions of local authorities, monitor the local media, avoid the affected areas and contact friends or family back home to let them know you are okay.

The Phuket News The Australian Consulate-General in Phuket Address: 6th Floor CCM Complex, 77/77 Chalermprakiat

Rama 9 Road (the bypass road), Muang Phuket 83000 Thailand.

Phone: 076-317700 Fax: 076-317 743 Email: consular.phuket@dfat.gov.au Website: phuket.consulate.gov.au Hours of operation: 8.30am – 4.30pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).

20 DINING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Tastes of Tiranga Navrang Mahal still sets the gold standard for Indian food in Phuket Anton Makhrov news@novostiphuketa.com

W

hen it comes to authentic Indian food in Phuket, Navrang Mahal is always one of the first names that springs to mind. Founded two decades ago, it still sets the standard in the market. New venues come and go all the time, while Navrang Mahal remains integral to Phuket – it’s not just a restaurant, it’s an institution.

Navrang Mahal’s two branches are located in busy tourist hotspots (Karon and Patong) where restaurant managers constantly face the temptation to make things simpler to cater for masstourists’ tastes. This is one of the few dining venues that does not buckle under the pressure of the market, it stays

The juicy Chicken Achari Tikka.

true to its own colours, or rather to the colours of Tiranga, India’s national tricolour: saffron yellow, white and green.

Out of the two restaurants, my personal favourite is Navrang Mahal in Karon, where chef Uttam Singh runs the kitchen. A living manifestation of Indian hospitality, he is always happy to help you choose your dishes and adjust them to your taste, so don’t hesitate to ask. If you’re not as familiar with Indian cuisine, rest assured that you can rely on his recommendations completely, as I did during my most recent visit. If I relied on my own on my knowledge, I would have inevitably ordered things that are far from typical Indian food, but the dinner he served was a comprehensive introduction to Indian cuisine.

Navrang Mahal’s menu has lots of vegetarian options, but chef Singh sug-

The curries are rich and complex in flavour.

Dine in the relaxed, open-air atmosphere of Karon Sea Sands Resort. gested going straight to the meats and served me up some Chicken Achari Tikka, pieces of chicken first marinated in yoghurt with Indian spices, then grilled to juicy perfection and served on a bed of vegetables. The meat was incredibly tender thanks to the marinade and tasted just delicious on its own, but I decided complement it with some tangy chutney.

Choosing these traditional Indian condiments is all about picking the right balance, and Chef Singh has got a wellhoned knack for it. Actually, he picked what I would likely have chosen myself: first, some mildly spicy fresh mint sauce for fragrance; second, some pickled onions for sourness; and last but not least, sweet and spicy jam-like fruit chutney.

At Navrang Mahal meat lovers can find an impressive variety, prepared in styles such as Tikka, Tandoori, and Kebab, but we limited ourselves to Chicken Achari Tikka and from there moved on to the curries, the cornerstone of Indian nutrition. Butter Chicken or Murgh Makhani is a must-try dish here. If you think no-one can surprise you with this staple Indian dish, please, give chef Singh a chance. I’ve tried many in my life, but the one at Navrang Mahal is the creamiest, the smoothest and the richest by far.

Other curry options include hot and spicy Lamb Vindaloo and fiery Rogan Josh, mild Dal Makhni, succulent Prawn Masala and many more.

Our special treat was Paneer Methi Malai, which I had never tried before but will definitely order again. As one can tell by the original Indian name, this is a cottage cheese (paneer) curry with fresh fenugreek leaves in a rich and creamy gravy. Perfect for those

looking for a milder dish but who still want to sample the authentic taste of India.

Navrang Mahal’s curries go perfectly with basmati long-grained rice, but it would be an inexcusable mistake not to try some of the many breads, so we opted for ever-popular Garlic Naan and whole wheat Laccha Paratha, which I had never tried before. The latter turned out to be a layered North Indian flat bread brushed with ghee (clarified butter), crispy on the outside yet melting in your mouth. Plus the bread is easy to tear into bite-sized pieces.

Last but by no means least comes Raita, the renowned yoghurt dip. Some Indian dishes range in terms of spiciness from hot to extra hot, and that’s when having a dairy product on the table becomes crucial. Despite the widespread belief, neither water nor beer help when you accidentally have too much chili. Capsaicin, which is an active component of chili peppers, is a hydrophobic compound, thus waterbased liquids simply cannot extinguish the fire in your mouth. The cold and slightly sourish yoghurt is the first and only remedy, take good note of this before diving into the world of authentic spicy Indian cuisine. Or you can always ask Chef Singh to prepare your food a little less spicy.

Navrang Mahal, in Karon is located at Karon Sea Sands Resort and Spa. Visit NavrangMahal.com for directions and menu. For those who fancy a nice weekend retreat, Karon Sea Sands has attractive green-season promotional rates on accommodation. For more information, please call +66 (0) 76 286 464.

Skye to open new lake-front venue

F

ollowing a successful maiden year for Skye Beach Club at Nai Yang, Skye will be opening a new venue in the fashionable Laguna area – to be called Skye Lake Club. Skye Executive Chef Saharat Tangthai is also revamping menu, using valuable customer feedback from the Nai Yang branch of Skye.

The new venue, slated to open in mid-November, will be situated on the Lake at Laguna near Villa Market. Skye Lake Club will be serving breakfast, lunch, dinner with nightlife and will stay open till late.

As for the new menu, Chef Saharat’s enthusiasm shows, he said, “My inspiration was the desire to create something new to really impress our customers and have them leave wanting to return. I want to use my 15 years of experience in various international cuisines such as Italian, French and Asian to serve up the

An artist’s impression of the new Skye Lake Club, which is set to open in mid-November. highest quality food, to really demonstrate the depth of my experience with every single dish.”

Chef Saharat has worked in several of Phuket’s most prestigious restaurants in his 10 years on the island.

He prides himself on delivering the most extravagant menus and dishes, bringing creativity, passion and exotic tastes to Skye’s beach-front, and now lake-front, venues. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

EXPLORE 21

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Traipsing around temples in Bagan JP Mestanza tv@classactmedia.co.th

I

t’s five o’clock in the morning and our bus has just pulled up to the terminal. Dozens of cabbies run towards the large heap of groaning metal as it lurches to a stop, hoping to be lucky enough to have a tourist hire them for the day. They are all heading the same way, along a dusty road towards a crumbling, earthen-coloured temple where we will glimpse the sunrise as it slowly illuminates the serene and piercingly beautiful landscape of Bagan, the city of temples.

This is where I met my cab driver U Maung, a short man with a big smile showing stained teeth, well-worn by years of chewing paan – a type of chew-

Hawkers offer Myanmar’s famed gems for sale.

ing tobacco, usually mixed with betel nut and other ingredients, which is ubiquitous throughout country.

Together, we head over to one of the main temples to check out the sunrise and as our taxi ambles along, tourists pass us on their electric motorbikes waving, clearly they’ve already been here a few days.

It takes about five minutes to scramble up Shwenshandaw Pagoda, and its not exactly easy going in the morning darkness. This activity is not for the faint-hearted, as scrapes and scratches can easily happen if you’re not careful going up and one slip means a rough tumble down the ancient, cracked and sometimes jagged stones.

Once I reached the top the view was breathtaking, and soon the lengthy tenhour bus ride from Yangon, where I sat next to a teenaged boy pumping death metal through his headphones at full blast, fades from my memory. My new “friends” from the bus trip are already at the top, and they want nothing more than to admire the view with a friendly stranger, though they seem to prefer seeing it filtered through a smartphone.

Slowly, the sun creeps up, pulling away the blanket of darkness that was hiding the mosaic of time-worn pagodas and stupas that make up about 90 per cent of Bagan. Even the colours of the sky look older than they did before,

Horse and buggy are a common means of transport in Bagan.

@thephuketnews

Watching the sunrise over ancient temples is Bagan’s drawcard.

as the magic of the city transports you to a time before modern borders were drawn.

After an hour atop the pagoda, U Maung and I spent the day heading from temple to temple, stupa to stupa, climbing, and ducking under massive, perfectly-cut stones. It wasn’t until midday that I found my new obsession: tamarind flakes. These little drops of heaven are sweet, small and simply melt on the tongue, the perfect snack for temple-hopping.

Though the tourism industry in Myanmar is growing rapidly, Bagan has a fair way to go before it will see the hordes of tourists that Angkor Wat or even Ayutthaya regularly attract.

Hawkers selling clothes, gemstones and Buddhist figurines are seemingly at every attraction, but with over 2,200 pagodas and temples, many of them still seem abandoned to the landscape.

The temples were built over a long period of time, the oldest being just over 1,000 years old. Most of the attractions are Buddhist in nature, but many have Hindu influences and even animist features.

The local vendors are friendly and welcoming.

One day in Bagan is probably enough for most people, but the quaint locally-run guest houses are very accommodating and friendly, so if you decide to spend a extra few days there it will be a very laid back experience.

Local laws aimed at preserving the city only allow tourists to hire electric motorbikes if they wish to get around independently. Horse and buggy taxis are very common as well, which makes the city all the more peaceful.

22 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Every division of the Amari team, from finance to housekeeping, took part on the day.

AMARI PHUKET STAFF FIRE ON ALL CYLINDERS FOR SAFETY DRILL

Experienced fire safety trainers conducted the emergency drill exercises

Amari Phuket held its rigorous Fire and Evacuation Drill training course last week, ensuring that all team members are up to date with fire safety and evacuation procedures.

Amari’s network of properties spans Thailand and beyond, including Doha, Dhaka, Bangkok, Pattaya, Koh Samui, Phuket, Krabi, Hua Hin, Buriram and the Maldives.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ISLAND SCENE 23

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Ian Lancaster (centre) and friends donned their safari-wear to celebrate his 70th birthday.

From left: Norbert, Eric, Udomluck and Tobi.

From left: Richard, Graham, Jintana, Alex, Brice and Harry.

IT’S A JUNGLE OUT THERE - IAN LANCASTER CELEBRATES HIS 70TH BIRTHDAY Last Saturday (Sept 3) was the time and the ballroom at Angsana Phuket was the place for the Safari night of the year. Guests from Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand gathered to wish Ian Lancaster many more wonderful years. Thanks Ian for a night to remember.

Martin and Lillian Carpenter.

KING OF THE MOUNTAIN TRAIL RUN HAS A SUCCESSFUL SECOND YEAR

The male 15km podium finishers: David Escolar Ballesteros 1st, Mikael Niva 2nd, and Songkrod Jeiaranaisin 3rd.

The female 15k podium finishers: Pemerin Aurama 1st, Waleeporn Kongchana 2nd and Supawadee Sae-Ong 3rd.

Thanyapura’s King of the Mountain was held last Sunday (Sept 4). A huge number of competitors, 610 in total, joined in the trail run which offered each runner a choice of three distances: a four kilometre fun run; eight kilometre mid-range run and a hardcore 15 kilometre run. The trail weaved its way along the steep, slippery slopes and beautiful natural waterfalls of Khao Phra Thaeo National Park in Phuket.

Over 200 spectators enjoyed the event, which featured surfing, skating, live music and a live DJ.

LONGBOARDERS BATTLE IT OUT IN THE SURF AT PATONG BEACH Finalists: Sitthichoke Puengkow 1st (Kamala Beach), Thanagrid Tomara 2nd (Patong Beach), Bokoree Kortor 3rd (Patong Beach) and Chalermsak Sae-Tan 4th (Kata Beach). @thephuketnews

The Longboard Classic and Surf Expo 2016 was held at Patong Beach on Saturday, Aug 27. Competitors enjoyed good weather and waves, and the competition was fierce but friendly between the thirty top Thai Longboarders, as well as surfers from Russia and Australia. Congratulations to the finalists, who collected cash prizes and sponsor gift vouchers from Andaman Sea Surf, Gavin Nash Longboard, Yakiniku Koku, ASL, Choochuay Trading, Orchidacia Resort, Freedom Boardsport, Anthem Wavepark and Islanda Resort.

24 EVENTS

FRI

9 SEP

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

SAT

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

10 SEP Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach

Bellini After Hours

WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY

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

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

All Day Breakfast at Cafe Siam

Aussie bacon & egg rolls NOW at Cafe Siam.

All day breakfast, just like mum makes. Lavazza Coffee, healthy snacks & salads. Find us at the Entrance of The Royal Paradise Complex, Patong. Mon - Sat 8.30am - 4.00pm. Facebook: CafeSiamGuesthousePhuket 081 676 9411.

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

Chalong nightlife will never be the same with the launch of Bellini After Hours, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday only, dance the night away with the Bellini Band and DJ from 10pm till 2am.

Pizza available all night. Join us for our opening weekend starting this Friday night, remember to like us on Facebook to get a free drink. More info on Facebook - Bellini After Hours.

Live Sports at Expat Hotel

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

SUN

11 SEP

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

Mussels night @ Shakers

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

Cricket league every Sunday @ Alan Cooke Ground, Thalang

Faldo Series – Thailand Championship South 2016

Open to all junior golfers aged 12 – 21 years old holding a USGA or nationally recognized handicap, the championship will consist of 54 holes, with each age-group gross winner of the championship earning themselves places in the 11th Faldo Series Asia Grand Final hosted

by Sir Nick Faldo at Laguna Lang Co in March 2017! Contact: golf@lagunaphuket.com to learn more about the event!

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

Phuket Cricket Group (PCG) hosts the T20 Cricket League every Sunday at the Alan Cooke Ground in Thalang. Two games per day, starting at 10am and 2pm. Everyone welcome to come and enjoy cricket at a fantastic venue. Food and beverages available all day at the Boundary Bar. Anyone interested in cricket in Phuket please email phuketcricketgroup@gmail.com. Visit www.phuketcricket. com and www.acgphuket.com for further info and directions. This event is sponsored by Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort, The Phuket News and Live 89.5.

MON

12 SEP

All you can eat BBQ night

A CASUAL SUNDAY BRUNCH BY THE POOLSIDE

Relaxing afternoon by the poolside featuring a lavish spread of international delicacies and fresh seafood from the Ocean. Special Promotions: (1) A group of over 10 people receive 20% discount. (2) Birthday celebrations – birthday person receives a complimentary Brunch. The rest of the party, if over 10 people receive 20% discount. All prices are subject to a 7% government tax and a 10% service charge. Children’s prices are applicable to those aged from six to twelve. Children under the age of six dine with our compliments. RSVP, HYATT REGENCY PHUKET RESORT, fnb.phuhr@hyatt.com, 076 231 234.

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet

Sunday Gourmet Brunch At Bodega and Grill

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

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

6PM – 11PM: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns & Squids, salad buffet, Choice of potatoes & Sauces, Bread, Buns & garlic bread Reservation recommended 395 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

TUE

13 SEP

Public Speaking made easier

Looking to develop your public speaking and leadership skills? Ignite your career? Join Toastmasters Phuket and start making yourself a leader today! Invitation only. Contact Jason on 086 479 7471 for more info.

WED

14 SEP

All you can eat BBQ Ribs night

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

Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY

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

Sunday Tapas

This is what Sunday lunches are meant to

THU

15 SEP

The Reboot & Re-energize your Body & Mind Workshop

This inspirational program is designed to educate, motivate and understand hormonal balancing, the cortisol connection, stress reduction and much more. Full program THB 22,000 net p.p. (excludes accommodation). One off classes from THB 900.

15% discount before July 31. Limited numbers.

Reservations and special accommodation rates contact linda.overman@marriotthotel.com or 076 338 000 ext. 3752.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

THU

EVENTS 25

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

15 SEP

SAT

17 SEP

A Night at the Opera 2016

PIWC Luncheon September

Monthly lunch will be at on Thursday, September 15 at Les Diables Boat Lagoon. RSVP is required no later than Tuesday 13 September.

Price is 600 baht members; guests are 750 baht.

Registration at 11:30 and lunch begins at noon.

NOTE for cancellations and no-shows – please provide us with a minimum 24 hour notice for cancellation otherwise you will be responsible for the lunch fee, as we must guarantee our headcount to the restaurant. Thanks for your understanding. All proceeds from our monthly lunches support PIWC Scholarship Awards.

Your support is greatly appreciated. See you at Les Diables at Boat Lagoon.

FRI

16 SEP

Retro Night Two Chefs Kata Center

Do You Love 80’s Music? What’s Your Favorite Band? We’re Going Back To The 80’s At Two Chefs! Don’t Miss Our Famous Retro Night On Saturday September 16th From 6pm-Late At Two Chefs Kata Center! Our Famous Two Chefs Band Will Be Playing All Of Your Favorite Retro Hits From 8pm-Late! Get Ready To Relax And Make Memories At Two Chefs! Do you enjoy mouthwatering BBQ Pork Ribs & Cajun Chicken? Don’t worry! We’re offering ALL YOU CAN EAT for ONLY 395 Baht! Free And Convenient Parking Available. Don’t Miss Out! BOOK Your Table NOW At bit.ly/ReserveTwoChefs More Info at bit.ly/TwoChefsEvents.

Indian Curry Night on Fridays Come to Navrang Mahal in Karon Sea Sands Resort & Spa for an authentic Indian Feast First Week Friday and the Third Week Friday, in Karon Beach. Try out our delicious Aloo Tikki, Samosas, Chicken Tandoori, Aloo Gobi, Navrang Korma, Butter Chicken, Lamb Vindaloo, Naan, Rice, Salads, Chutneys / Achars, Pistachio Ice Cream, Gulah Jamun, Fruits.

And extra dishes on the menu: ONIONBHAJI, BOMBAY ALOO, DAL MAKHINI, VANILLA ICE-CREAM. For only 499/- nett and special reduced prices on drinks.076-286464 Ext 4.

@thephuketnews

“A Night at the Opera” – An elegant night of harmony & gastronomy! For the 3rd and final year FIVERA, Thailand’s only pop-opera group, will perform popular arias and pop hits in operatic style at Trisara. Saturday 17th September 6:30 pm at Trisara. THB 5,000 per guest, includes 4 course dinner & drinks. Book now: events@ trisara.com VIP seats now SOLD OUT!! Proceeds to Phuket Has Been Good To Us to make a difference in the lives of underprivileged Thai children in Phuket. This event is proudly sponsored by Live 89.5.

SUN

18 SEP

room with breakfast. RSVP: pawinee.p@amari. com. Tel: 076 298 044. This event is sponsored

by Paul Poole, Meetinthailand, Regus and The Phuket News. BCCT, Amari Phuket Patong Beach, 02 651 5350.

Thailand Property Awards 2016 The 11th Thailand Property Awards 2016 promises to be the most prestigious and competitive to date, with more than 500 of the Kingdom’s biggest and emerging names in real estate gathering on 22 Sept, at Plaza Athenee Bangkok, a Royal Meridien. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to celebrate one of the region’s emerging property markets and meet the industry leaders who are redefining it.

SAT

24 SEP

Inaugural Benefit Gala 2016

2nd ACCOR HOTELS “Heartbreak” Hill Mini-Marathon’ 2016

To create an annual fundraising event which supports the improving education and well-being of underprivileged children within the community we live and work. Our priority is to raise funds for local schools in Phuket and nearby provinces and support to Accor Yim Kids Project, which is a part of ACCOR HOTELS Corporate Social Responsibility. More info: tel. 089-4751159 or Facebook: facebook.com/groups/heartbreakhillphuket. This event is proudly sponsored by Live 89.5.

THU

22 SEP

Celebrate Phuket International Academy (PIA) becoming United World College Thailand (UWCT) in an evening filled with good food, free-flow drinks, live music, DJ, raffles and prizes, all in aid of a good cause. All proceeds will go towards a full scholarship for an underprivileged local Thai student to attend UWCT next year. Ticket donation 3,500 THB. Book your tickets now at: uwcthailandgala. org This event is proudly sponsored by The Phuket News.

SUN

9 OCT

12th Mai Khao Turtle Fun Run and Mini Marathon 2016

Property Report Congress Thailand 2016 A high-level forum for real estate professionals & industry leaders, VIPs, experts and Asia Property Awards winners and judges. The whole-day conference will cover Thailand’s top regional locations,design,retail,office, hotel segments, an overall market overview,a workshop on content marketing. More info please contact Amy, conference director +66 804 492 525. This event sponsored by The Phuket News. Plaza Athenee Bangkok.

The 12th Turtle Fun Run: Run Across the Sea Mini Marathon and Fun Run will take place on 9 October 2016, at 6:15 am at Phuket Gateway.

Proceeds benefit the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation. There will be a 10.2 km mini marathon (350 THB), a 5.3 km Fun Run (300 THB), and a 2.5 km Family Run (1000 THB/family).

Registration at the JW Marriott Mai Khao concierge from 3-8th October from 10:00-17:00, or the day of at Phuket Gateway 4:30-5:30 am.

Contact Kittipan: 0897738830.Sponsored by The Phuket News and Live 89.5.

WED

SUN

27 NOV

Ocean Marina

OCEAN MARINA PATTAYA BOAT SHOW 2016 At the Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Pattaya.

Demonstrating Pattaya’s image as one of Asia’s leading seaside resort hubs with outstanding facilities and the capability to host large scale international events. The show will stimulate tourism, as well as marine industry and related businesses such as boat building, boat sales, boat charter, boat parts and accessories, boat services, water sports and marina based property sales. Tel: 02 661 6800 and ask for Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show, info@ oceanmarinapattayaboatshow.com

EVERY DAY

23 NOV

Phuket Bussiness Dinner with the British Ambassador

One of the successful Phuket Business Dinner series. Attendance costs B890 per person, including inter-buffet and soft drinks. RSVP : to urosesri@bccthai.com Tel : 02 651 5350. Amari Phuket is offering a special room rate for Thursday, September 22 at B3,500 net for superior

4pm onwards Location Tamarind Bar & Grill in Chalong. The weight station will be at the Tamarind Bar & Grill in Chalong on all 3 fishing days, 24th, 25th & 26th November. The final evening and prize giving party will also be held in the Tamarind Bar & Grill, Chalong More info at www. phuket-international-sportfishing-tournament. com The event is proudly supported by Live 89.5 and The Phuket News.

Phuket International Sportfishing Tournament (PIST) 2016

Registration is on the 23th November 2016 from

La Gritta’s New Discovery Menu

Take your taste buds on a culinary tour through some of the finest Italian flavours. Chef Patrizia has created a six-course discovery menu priced at THB 1,590++ per person. Only during the month of September, show the promotion code PMLGPN2016/1 to receive a 10% discount! For reservations, email lagritta@amari.com or call 076 292 697. For more info: www.lagritta.com

26 TIME OUT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York Across 1. What historical event occurred on December 16, 1773?

2. Name the second largest city in Britain during the Black Death?

3. In which continent is Greenland?

4. London born singer Miss Adkins is better known as who?

5. In the 1887 novel Looking Backward, which modern term was used 11 times?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

performance 56. Calm 1. Jewish month 61. Cow parsleys 5. Sternward 64. Forearm bone 10. Betting game 65. Orchestra seat 14. Flower holder 66. Business 15. Diving bird 67. It may be due 16. Dash 68. Well 17. Antarctic denizens 69. What every 20. Long Island child wants county 21. Choice of phrase Down 22. “The possession of fools”: 1. Smooth Herodotus 2. Tibetan priest 25. Selling point 3. Fed. agency 26. Pawn 4. Bruce and Spike 30. Mild, as weather 5. Love affair 32. Hindu garment 6. Sticker 33. Part of O.H.M.S. 7. French collagist 34. Greek deity 8. Embroidery yarn 39. South African 9. Atlantic City herb attraction 42. Walk 10. Conflicts nonchalantly 11. Handle 43. Demagogue, for 12. Cooktop short 13. Start 44. Limerick 18. Absorbed language 19. Grew older 45. Breakfast sizzler 23. Nile bird 47. Choral clubs 24. Mechanical 48. ___-frutti damper 52. Confused 26. Entreats 54. Exaggerate a 27. Mother of the

Titans 28. Sea eagles 29. Approaching 31. Crumbly soil 33. “Hey!” 35. Old Chinese money 36. Charter 37. Existence (Lat.) 38. Cereal grasses 40. Using cautious and slow strategy to wear down opposition 41. Seeming eternity 46. Cat’s delight 47. Highlander 48. Brimless hat 49. Throat dangler 50. Early years in a century 51. Doctor 53. English exam finale, often 55. A sparkling wine 57. Utter in a grating voice 58. Canyon effect 59. Glower 60. Notice 62. “___ to worry” 63. Home extension

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) Boston Tea Party; 2) Bristol; 3) North America; 4) Adele; 5) Credit card

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

■■ Sept 9, 1916 Piggly Wiggly, the first true selfservice grocery store, is founded in Memphis, Tennessee.

5

per cent of lightning strikes are positively charged, which can be up to 10 times stronger than a negatively-charged bolt.

■■ Sept 10, 1967 The people of Gibraltar vote to remain a British dependency rather than becoming part of Spain.

29

■■ Sept 11, 1792 The Hope Diamond is stolen along with other French crown jewels when six men break into the house where they are stored.

per cent of the US population believes that vaccines cause autism.

700

words is the entire script spoken

by Arnold Schwarzenegger in Terminator 2.

1,041

■■ Sept 12, 1979 Indonesia is hit with an earthquake that measures 7.9 on the surface wave magnitude scale.

per cent is how much US college textbook prices have risen since 1977.

■■ Sept 13, 1501 Michelangelo begins work on his statue of David.

2 million cases of diabetes could be prevented by 2020 if Americans stopped drinking carbonated drinks every day.

Source: Uberfacts

This week in history

■■ Sept 14, 326 AD Helena of Constantinople discovers the True Cross and the Holy Sepulchre (Jesus’s tomb) in Jerusalem.

Promthep sunset. Photo by Akom Tinglub Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket?

Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

■■ Sept 15, 1812 The French army under Napoleon reaches the Kremlin in Moscow.

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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We are currently recruiting for a graphic designer to join our team to handle the layout of our publications, including online.

The job: We require Full Time Graphic Designers to handle: ● Designing advertisements for clients ● Layout of The Phuket News and our other publications ● All artwork and graphic design work related to production

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Buy&Sell JOBS Full Time Maid

Full time maid required for villa in Kata. Only 2 adult inhabitants. Salary negotiable. More if can speak English and drive Car/Motorbike. Nice bedroom with ensuite.

12000, Nicholas, nicksamson2301@gmail.com, 062 772 1212.

ACTIVITIES, GROUPS Free Tiya’s Hammocks campaign

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

BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE Steel boat for sale

32 metre steel boat for sale, built 2012 2x cummings engines, 10 hrs work only, International REG. Excellent for live - aboard or ferry, price 6MB. contact call Joe 087 8918912 or joe@similandivers.com.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Business For Sale

No not a bar or guesthouse but a viable business not dependent on tourism or high seasons. All the machinery&inventory of materials to begin manufacturing wooden window blinds. This business has been a proven success in Phuket with over 5 years of profitable operations. Over 3 MB. in inventory included, 2 MB. with financing available. Call +6681 487 4812 or lamsden@phuketemail.com for photos&details.

Restaurant for sale in Rawai

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

Looking for a Partner Investor

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

Restaurant set up for sale

A fully equipped restaurant in the highly sought after Boat Avenue mall in Laguna. Stainless steel kitchen, Wi-Fi, bar counter, service area. Ready to go in days. Email: jukeboxphuket@gmail.com, 081 090 1608.

CAR FOR SALE Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8G VVTI

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

sa nt e g r

U

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Honda Jazz 2009 1500cc Auto

57,000kms. One owner since new. Regularly serviced

by Honda. Tax and Insurance until the end of June and available now at right offer. Reduced by 40,000 bht, REDUCED to 330,000bht o.n.o, Andy +66846909144, andysmalster@gmail.com

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Buy&Sell

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

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MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE New loft trailer

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

MOVING SERVICES Looking for Moving Company?

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

REAL ESTATE SERVICES Phuket real estate tour

Real estate investment tours are specially designed to help you to achieve your investment goals with the right property in the right location. You will get advice on the multitude of lucrative investment opportunities in Phuket. THB1,990. md@tourasian. com, 080 826 4665.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

WEBSITES, IT For Sale: hoteldealsphuket.com

PHD has 125,000 pages indexed in Google and an average of 22,000 page views per month! See stats image. Also see the selling points on the link below.

Quick sale: 33.000B!, Mark, mr.m.hopkins@gmail.com

Outstanding Beach Front Pool Villa

A rare opportunity to purchase a 4 bedroom beachfront villa in a 5* resort at The Village Coconut Island. A “snip” at 22m THB. Contact email aadmo@ btinternet.com, Somjit, aadmo@btinternet.com, 081 9791945.

PROPERTY FOR SALE LAND NEAR WATERFALL FOR SALE

Beautiful Land in Rawai For Sale

Beautiful mountain view with option of sea view land of 742m2 for sale in Rawai with chanote title. For more information contact 085 790 2021.

Prime Land near Natai Beach

13 Rai Prime flat land full chanote 5 mins to beautiful Natai beach 5 mins to Khok Kloi 20 mins from Phuket airport. Close to temples, beach & mountain views perfect for large property or subdivide for development. 13,500,000, Antoine Thai & English, 081 979 9307 , dannyred@ hotmail.com

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

PROPERTY FOR SALE Sale by owner Apartment ‘The Pearl of Naithon’ Leasehold

Total area 226,66 SQM including terrace 41,25 Sqm, 50 meters from the beach, 3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms, Owner purchased at THB 22.5 million, now reduced to only THB 11.5 million for quick sales.

MP + 66 (0) 89 814 1458.

Modern home office for sale

Modern home office for sale located 400 m fr Central Intersection. 1 Unit has 1 commercial, 1 living space, 4 bedrooms & built-in bathrooms. Owner, thip_june19@yahoo.com, 087 543 4716.

COMMUNITY

Kay McDonnell

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

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CLASSIFIEDS 33

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Buy&Sell

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PROPERTY FOR RENT Villas & Apts Rent-Chalong

2- and 3 -bedroom pool villas, 2-bedroom townhouses & studio apar tments. Special prices from 700/night or 8,000/month.

Rates include WiFi, maid service, cable TV, furnishings. Great loc ation near Big Buddha. info@chalongapar tment.com, 086 282 6221, www.chalongapartment.com

PROPERTY FOR SALE

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Waterfront Condominium

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

House for Sale

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

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

Being built on the highest point in the estate, only 80 meters from the ocean and located 3 mins away from Grand AoPor Marina, 10 mins from golf course, 20 mins from the airport, shopping centers, schools and hospitals, this villa is a perfect place to live with no traffic, no pollution and no mass tourism...

More than 600 Sqm usable building area, 3 bedrooms, guest apartment, maid quarters, games room, 10 meter infinity swimming pool, roof terrace and breathtaking views. Can be ready to move in within 8 weeks and still can be customized to the wishes of new owner. For sale at only 24.9 mill Baht. For viewing or more information please contact our sales director, Khun Montha 081 343 0777 Email : montha_phuket@yahoo.com.

MAI KHAO LAND

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

PROPERTY FOR RENT Attractive 3 bed single house

Set in quiet surroundings in Bang Jo. Land area is 240 sq mtrs living area is 106 sq mtrs. Features - Modern Kitchen, Washing Machine, Security System, Auto Gate, Off road Parking, Air-Con, 12V LED Garden Lighting, Fountain water feature and Gardener. 25K per month on 1 year contract. Call 081 968 6051.

Kathu Condo for Sale/Rent

36 Sqm Fully Furnished with Pool & Fitness. Rent start 9,000 monthly. Close to Patong, Central Festival Phuket and Prince of Songkla University. Lily Line ID: 0841094466, flyfreelily@gmail.com, 084 109 4466.

Two condos for sale/rent

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

2 BDR Bungalow, Nai Harn Beach

For rent with “Free UBC Platinum cable TV”, security, air-con, fridge, stove, quiet area, at end of cul-de-sac, 12,500 per month. Call 098 017 8818 or 087 884 8972.

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. @thephuketnews

New Sea View Villa

34 PROPERTY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

St th eps e f be r o ac m h

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BEACHFRONT HOUSE, Cape Panwa

A rare beachfront location in the quiet Cape Panwa. Featuring spectacular of the surrounding islands. Within a well-managed estate of 10 villas sharing the beachfront pool. High potential for capital appreciation.

SEAVIEW 6-BEDROOM POOL VILLA, Layan

6 Bedrooms, 6 Bathrooms, 1009sqm.

A unique 6-bedroom with an ideal location with Layan Beach right across a quiet road. Successful rentals property and maintained to a very high standard.

45,000,000 THB

3 fr 00 om m be ete ac rs h

15,500,000 THB

4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, 260 sqm.

SIZEABLE 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT, Layan

3,100,000 THB

1 Bedrooms, 1 Bathrooms, 76sqm.

Overlooking a lake this bright leasehold apartment features open plan living, separate bedroom and a sizeable terrace. The colonial style development is very-well maintained with lots of greenery, swimming pool, kid’s pool and outdoor seating area. Must-see development.

FREEHOLD 2-BEDROOM APARTMENT, Karon 2 bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, 156 sqm.

the sandy Karon Beach, this property is ideal both for residential

10,700,000 THB

e d ic ce Pr du e R

MODERN SEAVIEW CONDO, Karon

2,990,000 THB

1 Bedrooms, 1 Bathrooms, 43sqm.

Very competitively priced 1-bedroom apartment at less than 70k per SQM for partial seaview. Two neighboring units for sale by the same owner. Wonderful sea view lap pool on the roof.

CHARMING 3-BED WITH BIG GARDEN, Chalong

13,450,000 THB

3 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom, 200sqm.

Set on an expansive 1900 SQM land plot this standalone house is conveniently located near Wat Chalong and Chalong Pier. Completed in 2004, the garden space has endless opportunities to add additional value to the property.

WONDERFUL 2-BEDROOM POOL VILLA, Chalong 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathrooms, 298sqm.

Quiet villa development with 12 units, this well-priced property offers easy access to Chalong pier and Phuket Town. Significantly reduced in price to facilitate a quick sale

6,980,000 THB

FREEHOLD APARTMENT NEAR OCEAN, Patong 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathrooms, 87 sqm.

Excellent location between Kalim and Patong Beach, the spacious apartment was recently renovated to a high standard. Rents out at a high occupancy rate.

8,900,000 THB

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PROPERTY 35

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Call us today to schedule a viewing or visit Thailand’s leading online marketplace to seach 1000’s of properties in Phuket and all other major locations across Thailand - go to FazWaz.com

GOLF VIEW TOWNHOUSE WITH POOL, Kathu

7,500,000 THB

2 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, 175sqm.

Overlooking the golf course this charming townhouse offers a private pool and plenty of surrounding greenery. 3-storey property ideal both for golf enthusiasts or residential use.

3-BEDROOM GROUND FLOOR APARTMENT, Kamala

3,000,000 THB

3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, 124 sqm.

Spacious leasehold apartment. Situated in an older estate in a peaceful jungle surroundings. Just a few steps to the large communal pool directly from the terrace.

STUNNING 3-BEDROOM POOL VILLA, Nai Harn 3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, 260sqm.

Well-appointed pool villa nestled in a quiet development just a short drive to Nai Harn Beach. Fascinating design, both interior and exterior, the villa was recently renovated to a high standard.

2-STOREY POOL VILLA, Bang Tao

12,500,000 THB

2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, 256 sqm.

Conveniently located between main shopping area and Bang Tao Beach, this townhouse style property is situated within a reputable gated community.

8,900,000 THB

t ew ke N ar m

to

PENTHOUSE WITH PRIVATE POOL, Kamala

8,000,000 THB

Surrounded by serene jungle this spacious penthouse offers peaceful outdoor with a private pool. The leasehold property is sold fully furnished and has a proven track record of renting out well.

LUXURY OCEANFRONT VILLA, Cape Yamu

115,000,000 THB

@thephuketnews

2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, 210 sqm.

6 Bedrooms, 6 Bathrooms, 1343 sqm.

Exclusive to fazwaz.com this beautiful pool villa is set on a 4000 SQM land plot andlocated in one of Phuket’s most exclusive areas. Sold unfurnished enabling a new ownerto put their final touch on the finishing.

PERFECT FAMILY HOME, Thalang 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, 500 sqm.

Situated in a quiet location in the residential area of Thalang. Short drive to international schools and hospitals. 400 sqm indoor space and a large outdoor pool.

UNIQUE SEAVIEW POOL VILLA Patong

8,800,000 THB

4 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms, 485 sqm.

Standalone villa on 1000 sqm plot nestled on a hillside in Patong with great views over the city. High potential to generate a solid rental income. Rare property to enter the market.

19,950,000 THB

36 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

PCC strong in T20 opener

Patong take victory over Thalang in first game of season CRICKET Paddy Ledeboer editor3@thephuketnews.com

L

ast Sunday (Sept 4) saw the start of the long-awaited Outrigger T20 season at the Alan Cooke Cricket Ground. Patong Cricket Club (PCC) took on Thalang Cricket Team (TCT) and both teams were vying to get on the front foot for the start of the season After winning the toss TCT elected to field hoping to put some pressure on with opening bowlers Iqbal Malik (1-29) and Garry Lane (3-23).

It was Lane who struck first in the 2nd over bowling PCC Captain Seemant Raju for just one run. Other opener Simon Wetherall looked to be settling in with a couple of boundaries, but Lane was soon on target again, bowling him out in the 4th over for 14.

Henno Jordaan then fell victim to Malik, being given LBW in the next over on his

Henno Jordaan (PCC) threw accurately to end Craig Murphy’s innings for Thalang. Photo: Michael Way 1st ball. At 21-3 from five overs TCT’s plan looked to be working.

With Paddy Ledeboer and Hico McDonald at the crease, both ex-TCT players, and the rain falling, the stage was set for something special and the crowds were not to be disappointed.

With some tight bowling at one end from Craig Murphy (1-30), Ledeboer set his sights on leg spinner Martin Hill (0-46), and with some big

hitting soon reached his half century just before drinks.

Roly Cooper (0-10) was brought on for one over, only to see one of his deliveries land on the pavilion roof.

The pair continued to score freely until Mudisir Rehman (1-29) ended the 100 run partnership getting Ledeboer caught by newcomer Jarad Spindel on 77.

Paddy Morton came to the crease with the score now at 121-4. With runs now hard

to come by due to the damp conditions, Mortons straight shots found little reward, and he was soon caught out for 10.

Into the last over, McDonald was sitting on 44 and went for glory clearing the boundary to bring up his fifty, only to be caught the next ball. That left Neil Quail and Anthony Van Blerk to see out the over both not out on three and one runs respectively, and PCC 169 for 6.

With a run rate of 8.5 required, openers Lane and Cooper took 11 from the first in what only can be described as a “loose” over from Alex Runhaar (0-29) with Shivam Bhattacharya (1-11) bowling from the other end.

Lane and Cooper were rotating the strike nicely until Cooper was caught for nine runs by Quail running in from the deep, giving Bhattacharya a rare wicket maiden.

With Malik at the crease,

another newcomer Aron Simmons was brought into the attack only to be warned on the first ball about bouncers.

Malik made his intentions clear, playing some nice shots and clearing the fence on one occasion.

Just before drinks Lane was clean bowled for 18 by an accurate Jordaan (1-10).

At drinks TCT were 58-2.

Hill, now out in the middle, was caught short trying to up the run rate, and run out by Simmons for one run.

Malik was eventually bowled for 32 by Quail (1-11) in the 13th over. Murphy was also caught trying to hurry things along when a direct hit from Jordaan saw him go for a single run.

Morton (1-5) was now given the chance to turn his arm over and claimed the wicket of Spindel, stumped

by Wetherall for four.

With the score at 80-6 after 14.4 overs TCT decided to declare, handing a much deserved victory to PCC.

Annissa aims to win Flowboarding Championship FLOWBOARD

Royal Raya Sports took over the club’s management just before the beginning of the 2nd half of the AIS Southern Region Division 2 season.

It’s a long journey to reach the TPL Continued from page 40 ...Dragon called Royal Raya Sport.

The new management explained that the ideology of the new set up would be to develop Phuket FC into a stronger and bigger team which will be capable of reaching the Thai Premier League.

Sadly, with the introduction of the new Thailand League Championship (TLC) division in the 2017 season, this will mean that even if the new management are able to build a team good enough to reach the Thai Premier league it is going to take them an extra year

to do so.

The club will first have to fight their way out of the Southern Region Division 2 to the TLC – which without bigger funding than other teams in that division is no easy task. They will then have to gain promotion from the TLC to the Yamaha League 1, and then fight the hardest battle of all, a top two finish in League 1 and automatic promotion to the Thai Premier League.

In view of this huge task ahead, let’s hope that Royal Raya Sport really are in this for the long haul. At a minimum, it will be a three year journey to achieve their goal.

PHUKET BORN ANNISSA Flynn is hoping to go one better than her well deserved 2nd place in last year’s World Flowboard Championship (WFC) and take the top spot in 2016.

In the build up to the WFC 2016, Annissa, 18, last Saturday (Sept 3) took the Pro Women’s title in the 2nd round of the three-round Asian Flow Tour Thailand Qualifiers 2016 held at the Cartoon Network Amazone theme park in Pattaya, beating four other riders

Local Flowboarder Anissa Flynn, also an accomplished surfer, is on track to take home the 2016 Championship. Photo: DKTD Video Production. in the pro category.

This is a placed event where

BISP runner wins 4km KotM: BISP Track

Club runner Sota Maehara (above) came first in the 4km trail race at Thanyapura’s King of the Mountain held last Sunday (Sept 4).

Sota has also just passed the 1 million metre run mark since the start of this year – that’s 1 million metres in 247 days!

For more information on BISP Track Club, contact David Berman: dberman@bisphuket.ac.th

riders are put in the pro category by the organisers as per their official ranking.

Annissa, who is currently on a gap year after finishing her final year of studies at Satree School in Phuket Town where she was enrolled in the English Program, has already competed in the 1st and 2nd legs of the Flow Tour Thailand Qualifiers in Hua Hin and Pattaya respectively.

If she competes in the final-leg at the Flow House in Bangkok tomorrow (Sept 10), which she is scheduled to do, she automatically qualifies to compete in the Asian Tour Finals at Sunway Lagoon in Malaysia on Sept 16-17.

If she wins that event, which is highly possible, Annissa then gets to go the World Flowboard Championship to

be held at Sentosa House in Singapore on Oct 27.

But it’s not only flowboarding that Annissa has been enjoying during her gap year, she has not long returned from a three-week surf safari in Banda Aceh and Pacitan in central Java.

She also competed in the ASC Tour of surfing (in Pacitan) where she came in 6th after being edged out by the eventual 3rd place winner in the first round of the competition.

Speaking to The Phuket News ahead of tomorrow’s event, Annissa said that she feels wonderful about winning last weeekend’s event in Pattaya and that she is both excited and nervous, not only about the 3rd leg, but also the world finals.

Good luck Annissa!

Matt Pond thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

SPORT 37

Spaniard crowned as mountain King TRAIL RUN

Matt Pond editor3@classactmedia.co.th

Dirty Nellies team member Bruce shows his frustration at having a disappointing night. Photo: Scott Griffin

D

avid Escolar Ballesteros from Spain took the main men’s 15 kilometre title at last Sunday’s King of the Mountain with a time of 1:20:13, while Pemerin Aurama took the women’s title in the same distance category with a time of 1:43:02. Both walked away with B5,000 prize money.

In the men’s 15km event the three podium placed finishers were Ballesteros, Mikael Niva, and Songkrod Jeiaranaisin.

In the women’s event Pemerin was followed by

Wet Dreams extend lead in PPL to 11 points POOL David Escolar Ballesteros, winner of the 15 kilometre race.

Waleeporn Kongchana in 2nd and Supawadee Sae-Ong in 3rd.

Meanwhile, in the 8km race Matapan Yossatiantanakul

made his way to the finish line 1st in the men’s race in a time of 0:54:56, while the 1st woman to reach the line was Tassanee Prabtuk, in 1:22:09.

How to wipe out correctly SURFING

Tim Campbell info@skylaphuket.com

WAT C H I N G T H O S E videos of surfers taking off on what can only be called “ridiculously big waves” sometimes you will see that as they are halfway down the face of the wave they may be bumped or lose control putting them into a situation where they really don’t want to be.

Now, for the viewer it’s great entertainment seeing that surfer free fall 10 feet and smash into the bottom of the wave only to be picked back up and rolled back to the top of the wave’s lip and once again thrown down like a sack of potatoes.

Like I said, great enter-

@thephuketnews

Wiping out can be safe if you follow Tim’s steps. tainment, but in some situations you can’t help how you get wiped out by the wave.

But most times you can avoid hurting yourself and others by taking these simple steps.

Jump away from your board so it won’t hit you, and jump as if you are jumping into shallow water by not fully extending yourself.

Try and go bum first, minimising the chance of hitting the bottom. NEVER GO head first!

Cover your head as you hit the water and don’t come to the surface too quickly as you might hit your board on

the way up.

When on the surface, regather your board quickly so it’s not flopping around.

You can do this by pulling on your leash, bringing the board close to you.

But most importantly, stay calm and relax.

Wiping out is a part of surfing, but practising and using these tips will make wiping out a lot safer.

Tim’s Tip: Keep your eyes forward when on the wave, this will help with your balance and keep you standing up longer.

See you in the water!

The successful second King of the Mountain event was opened by Virat Patee, Director of Sports Authority of Thailand, Phuket Office and saw a total of 610 attendees compete in either the 4km fun run or 8km and 15km trail run along the steep, slippery and muddy slopes, with views of the beautiful waterfalls of Khao Phra Theao national park.

All participating runners went back home with not only the souvenir of an amazing trail run but also a commemorative medal of the event.

The Phuket News and Live89.5 were proud media sponsors of this event.

IN LAST THURSDAY’S (Sept 1) round of the Patong Pool League, top of the table Wet Dreams picked up an automatic 11 points having been scheduled to play league dropouts Amigo, and with Ting Tong Bar, who at the time sat at 2nd, just managing to scrape a narrow 6-5 victory away from home to Sports Bar, have now extended their lead to 11 points in the league standings.

But despite their win, Ting Tong Bar in fact dropped down to 3rd in the table following 1Bar’s 8-3 win away to M&M Bar. Simon and Oils played at home against Dirty Nellies and were unlucky to suffer a 6-5 loss. Simon and Oils were just ahead going into the Beer leg, but lucky for Dirty Nellies, one

Run: #1597 Saturday Sept 10 Run Start Time: 4pm Hares: Singha, No Hope, Not Cleaver Location: Thalang Showgrounds Directions: Head north from Heroines Monument towards Thalang, and at the main traffic lights in Thalang turn left back towards Cherng Talay (no HHH sign). After approximately 600 metres turn right on the sharp bend (HHH sign), follow the road towards the airport for approximately 900m and turn left into the Showgrounds (HHH sign). Follow the road around to the laager. HHH Truck will be marked.

From Cherng Talay turn left at the police station traffic lights and head towards Thalang. Turn left at the sharp bend marked at the airport shortcut just before entering Thalang (HHH sign). Follow the road as above. Dog washing facilities available.

Hash Bus Pickup Schedule: Patong @ Expat Hotel: 2.30pm Kamala @ Black Cat’s Bar: 3pm

of the Simon and Oils players accidentally potted the black in the 2nd beer leg game giving Dirty Nellies the extra point they needed for the win.

Elsewhere, Genius had the biggest win of the night taking a 9-2 victory over a Martin Swiss, while Champs Bar had a good 7-4 home win over in-form Natalie Bar moving them up into 5th position in the table.

Matt Pond Patong Pool League Table Wet Dreams

103

1Bar

92

Ting Tong

91

Genius

85

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0

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38 SPORT

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PARALYMPICS

to promise 150 million reais (B1.55bn) in August while the government got state companies to inject another 100 million reais in sponsorship.

Political and economic turmoil will be the last thing on the minds of the athletes however as Rio looks to produce new sporting heroes now that London 2012 sprint star Oscar Pistorius is in a South African prison for the killing of his girlfriend.

The 41 career gold medals won by blind American swimmer Trischa Zorn between 1980 and 2004 looks unbeatable, but the Paralympics will inevitably produce new tales of courage.

The 28-year-old Rahman, disabled since birth, is aiming to become the first Paralympian to bench press 300kg. His rivals in the powerlifting over 107kg category have already conceded the gold medal to the Iranian.

China will have a record 308 athletes in Rio looking to beat their 95 gold medals from London when they topped the table for the third straight Paralympics.

They have swimmer Xu Qing competing in his fourth and possibly last Games, seeking to add to his seven

Para-athletes rock in Rio Rio welcomes 4,300 Paralympians seeking their own sporting glory T

he 2016 Paralympics began on Wednesday (Sept 7) with Rio’s Maracana stadium again the iconic setting for the opening ceremony of a Games staged against a backdrop of austerity and doping.

Less than three weeks after the flame was doused on South America’s first Olympic Games, Rio de Janeiro welcomed 4,300 Paralympians seeking their own slice of sporting glory.

Stars include Iranian powerlifter Siamand Rahman, Britain’s wheelchair racer David Weir and China’s blind sprinter Liu Cuiqing.

Two new events – canoekayak and triathlon – were set to make their appearance on the 22-sport menu, with competitors from 161 nations – but not one Russian amongst them.

All of the Russian paraathletes, many of whom were in the team that finished second behind China in the London 2012 Paralympics medals table, were last month barred from the Sept 7-18 Games by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) following a World AntiDoping Agency report which

Britain’s David Weir is at the Rio to add to his six gold medals. Photo: Glyn Kirk/AFP alleged a vast state-sponsored doping program.

Six countries were sending athletes for the very first time – Aruba, Congo, Malawi, Somalia, Sao Tome and Principe and Togo.

Syrian swimmer Ibrahim Al-Hussein, who lost a leg in an explosion in his nation’s civil war, and Iranian discus thrower Shahrad Nasajpour make up a two-strong refugee team.

With half-empty venues

dogging last month’s Olympics, Rio 2016 Paralympic organisers said on Monday that 1.5 million tickets had been sold and they hope that all 2.5 million will go.

The Games have been overshadowed by financial worries and the slow sale of tickets.

But organisers have reported a dramatic turnaround in sales since the end of the Rio Olympics on August 21, when only 300,000 tickets had been sold.

Organisers said the Olym-

pics and hopes for Brazilian gold medals had boosted sales.

Caught in political and economic crises, Rio 2016 organisers have skimped as far as they can on food, transport and accommodation.

Rio’s problem is that it is following London 2012, hailed as the best Paralympics ever in terms of fervour and sporting performance.

To keep the Rio Games on track, city authorities had

gold medals.

His compatriot Liu last year inflicted the first defeat on reigning T11 400m champion Terezinha Guilhermina of Brazil in nine years. Liu, 23, won four golds at the world championships, stunning the Brazilian, 13-years her elder, each time.

And Britain's Weir is in Rio to add to his six gold medals.

The 37-year-old, born with a spinal deformity that has kept him confined to a wheelchair since birth, is entered in five events. “It will be my last Paralympics and I just want to medal,” he said.

“If I come away with a medal, I'’l be happy. My coach is telling me that I’m quicker and faster than I’ve ever been, so that gives me a lot of confidence.”

IPC president Philip Craven says that despite the cuts, the show goes on.

“The Games will happen, but they may not be – I wouldn’t say tip-top, but maybe not as relatively luxurious as in the past,” he declared.

“Paralympians are resilient people, (as are) the staff teams that back them up, and our Paralympic family will pull together,” he vowed.

AFP

Storm finish top of final NRL Asano lays to rest ‘ghost standings with win over Sharks goal’ spectre in Japan win RUGBY LEAGUE MELBOURNE STORM outplayed Cronulla Sharks 26-6 to finish top of the final season standings and claim Australia’s National Rugby League minor premiership last Saturday (Sept 3).

The Storm, with Test skipper and hooker Cameron Smith in commanding form, led 10-2 at half-time and went on to finish four tries to one winners.

Melbourne now face defending champions North Queensland Cowboys at home on the opening weekend of finals football.

It was the well-drilled Storm’s first minor premiership since 2011 to make them title favourites heading into the finals series.

Meanwhile, the Canberra Raiders clinched a top-two finish with a ninetry demolition of the Wests Tigers to end the Tigers’

top-eight finals hopes last Sunday (Sept 4).

Ricky Stuart’s title contenders crushed the woeful Tigers 52-10 after leading 30-4 at half-time and will host the Cronulla Sharks in the national capital tomorrow (Sept 10) in the opening week of the month-long finals.

It was a miserable end to the season for Wests Tigers, who went into their sell-out home game needing a win to leapfrog the Gold Coast Titans into the eighth and remaining spot for the NRL finals series.

But it was no contest as the Raiders dominated the opening half with some f lowing attacking play against the ragged Tigers defence.

Melbourne will now face defending champions North Queensland Cowboys at home also tomorrow.

E l s e w h e r e , J a r r yd Hayne’s Titans went down 32-16 to the Cowboys in

Townsville earlier on Saturday but they kept their place in the finals and will take on the Broncos in Brisbane in an elimination play-off today (Sept 9).

Pen r ith Panthers slammed the Manly Sea Eagles 36-6 to finish sixth and they will play the Canterbury Bulldogs in an elimination final on Sunday (Sept 11).

The Sharks could yet finish in third spot on the final standings if the Canberra Raiders leapfrog them with a win over the Wests Tigers in Sydney also on Sunday.

There is plenty on the line in Sunday’s match with the Tigers needing to beat the Raiders at home to nudge the Gold Coast Titans out of the last finals spot.

The Titans went down 32-16 to the Cowboys in Townsville earlier last Saturday to remain one competition point ahead of the Tigers.

AFP

FOOTBALL TAKUMA ASANO BOUnced back from last week’s disallowed goal controversy as he hit Japan’s second goal in a 0-2 win over Thailand which reignited their World Cup qualifying bid on Tuesday (Sept 6).

Asano was denied a clear goal in last Thursday’s (Sept 1) 2-1 defeat to UAE when officials failed to see his shot had crossed the line, but there was no doubt when he scored in Bangkok.

After Gen ki Harag uchi’s first-half opener, Asano squeezed his shot under goalkeeper Kawin Thamsatchanan to give Japan a two-goal cushion on 75 minutes.

The victory restores Japan’s fortunes in Group A, where they are aiming to become one of two teams to win automatic qualification to the Russia World Cup in 2018.

Japan ran Thailand ragged, with the passing and movement of AC Milan’s Keisuke Honda

and Borussia Dortmund’s Shinji Kagawa.

But the breakthrough came on 17 minutes as Hertha Berlin’s Haraguchi stooped to head home a deliciously weighted cross from the right.

It threatened a deluge of goals but Thailand clung on, thanks largely to goalkeeper Kawin who made several sharp saves to keep his side in the game.

His heroics nearly paid dividends on 70 minutes when he put Thailand’s Teerasil Dangda

through on the Japanese goal.

But Teerasil could only scoop his shot at the goalkeeper.

Five minutes later Asano pounced on a bungled clearance and his shot squirmed under the diving Kawin.

Thailand now have an uphill task following two defeats in the space of a week.

The War Elephants went down 0-1 to Saudi Arabia last Thursday after a contentious late penalty decision against them.

AFP

Japan’s Takuma Asano shoots during the match on Tuesday (Sept 6). Photo: AFP thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

SPORT 39

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Four things we learnt in the Premier League I t’s been two weeks since the last Premier League action, but over the weekend of Aug 30-31 the league’s established powers continued to flex their muscles as Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United all maintained their perfect start to

FOOTBALL

Wenger rides out another storm Assailed by the taunts of a growing army of doubters, Arsene Wenger enhanced his reputation for sheer resilience by leaving Vicarage Road with with 3-1 win against Watford that, temporarily at least, silenced his critics. Gunners boss Wenger has found himself under fire after Arsenal’s failure to win their first two league matches, with his lack of success in the transfer market serving to stoke the fans’ frustrations. But a dominant display saw Santi Cazorla open the scoring with an early penalty before

Arsene Wenger may have managed to silence his critics, but for how long?

Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil increased Arsenal’s lead to three by half-time and the imminent arrivals of new signings Lucas Perez and Shkodran Mustafi should give the north London side a further boost.

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the season with a third straight win each, while champions Leicester City and Arsenal recorded their first league wins of the season.

Let’s look back at four things we learnt from that weekend:

Conte earns his break As Antonio Conte relaxed on the beach back home in Italy last week, the Chelsea manager wouuld have been able to reflect on a perfect start to life in the Premier League. Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Burnley maintained Conte’s 100 per cent record in his four matches in all competitions since arriving at Stamford Bridge in July.

Conte’s hectic schedule, leading Italy to the Euro 2016 quarter-finals and then immediately taking charge of Chelsea, has left the former Juventus boss admitting he needs a rest to recharge his batteries. So he would

MONTHLY SPONSOR

MAIN SPONSOR

The overall competition winner receives a two day/one night private fishing charter to Racha Island on board Wahoo Yacht Charters Phuket’s Reel Blue. Total prize value: B180,000 The monthly competition winner for September 2016 will receive a THB3,000 voucher to spend at Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach.

EPL PREDICTIONS MONTHLY STANDINGS 1.

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Chelsea’s Italian manager Antonio Conte.

Photo: AFP

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have flown home to see his wife and daughter in good spirits after goals from Eden Hazard, Willian and Victor Moses put the Clarets to the sword.

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Man City Chelsea Man Utd Everton Hull Middlesbrough Tottenham Arsenal Leicester West Brom Liverpool West Ham Burnley Swansea Southampton Sunderland Crystal Palace Watford Bournemouth Stoke

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3 2 1 2 2 2 2 5 3 2 6 5 4 4 4 5 3 6 5 6

6 5 5 2 2 1 1 1 0 0 -1 -2 -2 -2 -2 -2 -2 -3 -3 -4

9 9 9 7 6 5 5 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 2 1 1 1 1 1

Liverpool need more bite up front Liverpool were the superior team in their game at Tottenham Hotspur, but had to settle for a point in a 1-1 draw due to their inability to take their chances. Despite bossing the first half, it took a 43rd-minute penalty from James Milner to put Liverpool ahead and after Sadio Mane had seen a goal ruled out for a marginal offside, Danny Rose equalised for Spurs. Having seen his team beaten 2-0 by Burnley the previous weekend despite gaining over 80 per cent of possession, it was the second time in a week that manager Jurgen Klopp returned to the changing room shaking his head.

Klopp had both Divock Origi and Daniel Sturridge at his disposal, but chose to

James Milner's penalty put Liverpool a goal ahead against rivals Tottenham. Photo: AFP align Roberto Firmino as a ‘false nine’ at White Hart Lane. The Brazilian won the penalty, but did not come close to scoring. Klopp has plenty of attacking options at his disposal, but he is still searching for the right combination.

Manchester United’s striker Marcus Rashford celebrates scoring against Hull. Photo: AFP

Rashford has the right attitude Jose Mourinho had talked at length about Marcus Rashford prior to the game and denied he was ignoring him in favour of the veteran Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Even if the Portuguese was being disingenuous about the teenager, the youngster showed his confidence hadn’t been blunted coming off the bench

to score the only goal of a 1-0 win in time added on against an obdurate if unadventurous Hull outfit. This was an encouraging result for Mourinho, the self-styled “Special One”, and a sign that United are set to be serious title contenders for the first time since managerial great Alex Ferguson retired. AFP

Sport

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor3@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

Outrigger T20 season opens, win for PCC > page 36

OUCH!

Phuket finish 9 , but was it such a bad season for what the club had to go through? th

FOOTBALL Matt Pond editor3@classactmedia.co.th

P

huket FC played their last game of the 2016 AIS Southern Region Division 2 season last Sunday (Sept 3) losing 3-1 away to Pattani United and leaving them with a final placing of 9th in the 12-side league table.

For some the final standing may have been disappointing, however, when you look back at what has been another topsy-turvy season for the club, the placing is actually not that bad. It certainly could have been worse, having gone through what they have, they could well have been relegated to D3.

Let’s go back to Dec 13, 2015, following Phuket FC’s relegation to D2, when then Club President Pramookpisitt Achariyachai announced that he and his family would no longer manage or be involved with the club.

The reasons he cited were mostly financial, but the fact that some fans would curse the team when they lost or didn’t play well, certainly didn’t help his enthusiasm.

Not exactly the support required in times of trouble.

On Dec 29 that year,

Cher ng Talay OrBorTor Chief, MaAnn Samran was appointed as the club’s new president. At that time MaAnn said that he needed to raise about B10 million to fund the operation.

By Jan 7, 2016, MaAnn had confirmed that he had sourced the funds to ensure that the club could play in D2. He also announced the appointment of former Thai International Pittaya ‘Odd’ Phimanman as the team’s head coach.

Two weeks later, MaAnn announced changes to the nickname of the club, from the Ronins to the Andaman Dragon, thus also changing the logo to show a dragon on top of an outline of Phuket island and a football at the bottom of the crest.

Speaking to The Phuket News for the first time on Jan 21, Coach Odd said he had enough players to compete in the 2016 season and that 28–30 players had been signed, with about 30 per cent coming from the former Satun United team who had been disbanded due to financial difficulties.

But it was at the beginning of February that the fun and games began.

Over the weekend of Feb

6-7, rumours began to circulate that the club was going to be offered a spot back in League 1. The rumours followed an announcement that there were two vacancies to fill in League 1 after it was established that two clubs who qualified to compete in the elite, Thai Premier League (TPL) would not be able to finance their respective teams.

At the same time, despite having already said that funds for the club been raised, it was announced that the club had decided to host a live music concert featuring performances from two of the country’s biggest rock bands, Labanoon and Big Ass. The reason for the concert? – to raise much needed funds to support the club.

Sadly, the concert didn’t have the expected reaction and no more than 200 people, who were certainly not regular fans of the club, turned out.

To add further disappointment, on Feb 10, it was confirmed by Coach Odd that the Andaman Dragon would not be competing in League 1 as many had hoped, but in the AIS Southern Region Division 2 as previously believed.

Also at this time, it was announced that Satun United had managed to resolve their financial woes, and thus took

Phuket FC’s goalkeeper puts a final touch to captain Yusuke Sato’s season. Photo: Wa Bulae/Facebook back the players provided to Phuket. So Phuket would have to source more players with only weeks to go until the start of the season.

On Feb 25, just three days before the season was scheduled to kick-off, and after coach Odd had successfully recruited the additional players he needed to make up the squad, The Phuket News learned that the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) had postponed the start of the season by a month to March 26.

Then, just day’s later, MaAnn was called back to Bangkok to again submit papers to the FAT to confirm the team’s placing in Southern Region Division 2. This being the 3rd time papers had been presented.

While all this was going on, some Phuket FC fanclubs began to question MaAnn’s position with the club and its situation.

This resulted in MaAnn holding a closed-door meeting at the Katch meeting room, Limelight Avenue in Phuket Town on Mar 15 with heads of all the team’s fanclubs and The Phuket News in attendance.

During the course of that meeting MaAnn explained that Phuket FC had been left

with no one to support it, and that he came in to take over because he was asked to.

He also said that the main objective of his taking over as president was to keep a football team for the island, and to be a supporter of the team.

Regarding the club’s financial situation, which had also come into question, MaAnn admitted funds were limited and that most of the team he had working for him were either close friends or family.

The season eventually got underway on Mar 20, a game which was drawn 0-0 away to Satun United.

But come June, just three months after the start of the season, the club was again brought into disarray.

A club insider had told Siam Sport Syndicate that 37 players employed by the club were owed two months’ wages, amounting to an estimated B1.6 million.

Moreover, it was confirmed that power and water had been cut at the club’s base camp, the FIFA tsunami memorial ground, between Phuket Town and Panwa Cape, with reports citing an unpaid utility bills amounting to B30,000.

At the same time, it was also rumoured that MaAnn

was in the process of signing over rights of the club to another individual.

By June 23, The Phuket News had learned from an official associated with the club that all outstanding wages had since been paid. However, that official declined to say how or from whom the payments were made. He was also uncertain as to who would pick up the salaries for the month of June, as the much talked about takeover was yet to be finalised.

But despite there still being no formal announcement from any club official regarding the state of Phuket FC’s ownership or management, on July 7 Coach Odd confirmed that he was still working on preparing for the second half of the season which was set to start on July 10.

Just before the second half of the season got underway, on July 8, the official takeover of Phuket FC was announced at a press conference held at Royal Gems Pavilion in Thalang.

During the press conference it was announced that Royal Gem and Rayaburi Group had taken over the club’s management and that they had set up a new company to run the Andaman...

Continued page 36 thephuketnews