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FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

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NATIONAL POLICE CHIEF TARGETS PHUKET GRAFT > PAGE 6

LEARNING

TO RUN

BREAKING THE LANGUAGE BARRIER CRITICAL FOR TSUNAMI EVACUATIONS, SAYS GOVERNOR

P

huket Governor Nisit Jansomwong this week called for hotels, tour operators and local authorities in key tourism areas on the island to step up their efforts to ensure that tourists understand tsunami warnings and evacuation messages.

“The most difficult part of con-

ducting a tsunami evacuation drill in Patong is that many people from different nations, all speaking different languages, are staying here,” he said on Tuesday (June 9) at the annual tsunami drill in Patong.

Gov Nisit called on local authorities to ensure that all operators involved in the tourism industry were updated with accurate details of evacuation and emergency-response plans.

“It is vital for them to understand

how important this is,” he said. “They need to know where the evacuation routes, meeting points, safe zones are, and any other places where first aid and medical assistance will be provided.

“Brochures, flyers or informative booklets containing this information must be given to hotels, resorts and guesthouses,” he added.

“This will ensure that tourists as well as local people are confident that

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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the local administration organisation can respond appropriately in the event of such a disaster. Safety is one of the most important keys of sustainable tourism. If people here feel safe, then Phuket’s reputation as a tourism destination would definitely benefit.”

Gov Nisit noted how clear communication made the tsunami-evacuation exercise held on Koh Siray last month such a success.

“On Koh Siray, all the residents

PAGE 3

CCTV footage clears expat of murder charge

LIFE

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Get ready for some laughs on June 20

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Hundreds of participants ran down Soi Bangla during the tsunami evacuation drill in Patong on Tuesday.

Photo: Nattha Thepbamrung Nattha Thepbamrung reporter3@classactmedia.co.th

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Cricket, rugby players to face off for charity

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FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

Gov puts end to rip-off merchants targeting Chinese tourists > page 7

Top cop transferred over Patong nightclub brutality, gun threat

Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

A DEPUTY SUPERINTENdent in Patong has been transferred pending an investigation into allegations of him beating a staffer at the Hollywood nightclub on Soi Bangla, and threatening to shoot anyone who tried to intervene.

Kathu police deputy superintendent Lt Col Sorapong Chookaew has been moved to Phuket Provincial Police headquarters in Phuket Town.

He is to stay there for one month while the investigation is carried out.

The transfer came Wednesday night (June 10) after more than 100 staffers from Hollywood discotheque staged a protest on Soi Bangla, calling for justice for fellow staffer Kamoncahi Singkied, 28.

The protesters told police that Col Sorapong and six other police officers entered the club,

A DMAT official speaks with a first responder at the tsunami drill in Patong on Monday.

The staffers staged their protest on Soi Bangla. and at about 2am Wednesday an incident started.

Kittipong Yunuy, 31, told reporters that Col Sorapong grabbed Mr Kamonchai, who was working as a security guard, by the collar and said, “What are you looking at me for?”

“He hit him in the face,” Mr Kittipong said. “I tried to stop it, but Col Sorapong said that if anyone tried to help him, he would shoot them.

“Kamonchai begged for his life and apologised, but Col

Sorapong kept beating him.

We were all afraid to report this to the police.”.

The protest disbanded after officers Lt Col Akanit Darnpitaksarn and Lt Suthichai Tienpo, both from the Kathu police, met with the protest leaders at 8pm. Col Akanit vowed to never let this kind of incident happen again.

“We want to ensure the safety of all workers here tonight and we are very sorry for the victim and very sorry for the incident,” Col Akanit said.

Getting the tsunami safety messsage Continued from page 1 …speak Thai, so it was quite easy to communicate clearly among everyone involved, especially the sea gypsies, who were very concerned about tsunamis,” he said.

About 500 people, including students, hotel workers and local residents, took part in the tsunami-evacuation drill in Patong on Tuesday.

The drill was aimed at educating locals as to what to do in case another tsunami strikes the island and to help local authorities co-ordinate their emergency-response efforts, explained Patong Mayor Chamlermluck Kebsup.

“The exercise helps all official departments to prepare their staff, equipment and plans so that they can improve their disaster-response skills,” she said.

“Meanwhile, local people and businesses get to learn how to save themselves and the people around them.”

In terms of co-ordinating rescue efforts, Rear Admiral Tiansiri Montraiwate, deputy commander of the Royal Thai Navy’s Third Area base at

Cape Panwa, pointed out that naval personnel can play a crucial role in the response efforts.

“We can provide rescue boats and helicopters while our aircraft search for survivors,” he said.

“Navy rescue personnel can especially assist in carrying out offshore rescues of marine tour passengers, jet-ski operators or speedboat passengers. We can also produce fresh water and provide emergency food provisions and first aid, too.”

The simulation on Tuesday had participants evacuate the beach area by using Soi Bangla Rd, then gather at the groundlevel car park at Jungceylon shopping mall, which is one of the 13 dedicated “safe zones” in the beach resort town.

“It is important for survivors to make their way to the safe zones, as these locations will serve as headquarters where local authorities will gather information and updates about the situation and plan the next step together,” said Mayor Chalermluck.

“Also, medical teams and rescue teams are provided

there, as well as food, water and emergency supplies,” she said.

Patong Safe Zones: • Phra Baramee Soi 7; • Suwankiriwong Temple (Wat Patong); • Suwankiriwong Temple School (next to Wat Patong); • Monthatong Market (at Baan Mon, on Phisit Gorani Rd, near Wat Patong), • Baan Maneesri 2 housing project (on 50 Pi Rd); • Royal Crown Hotel (off Nanai Rd); • Jungceylon shopping mall ground-level car park; • Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) Patong branch (on Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Rd) • Baan Nanai Community Hall (on Nanai Rd); • Makro (on Nanai Rd); • 50 Pi Rd (at the intersection with the road that leads to Chalong), • Sirirat Rd (in front of the elephant camp at the top of the hill south of Patong) • Baan Yin Dee Hotel (on Thaweewong Road, but up the hill on the south side of the bridge at the southern end of Patong Beach).

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FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

Aussie expat cleared of stab-murder chearge

PHUKET NEWS

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Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

V

IDEO footage of the attack in which Australian expat Mark Pendlebury fatally stabbed a Patong nightclub staffer in March has convinced Phuket police to drop the murder charge against the 59-yearold from Western Australia.

“Af ter reviewi ng the CCTV footage recently provided, we have decided to not pursue the murder charge against Mr Pendlebury,” Lt Col Jessada Saengsuree of the Kathu police confirmed on Wednesday (June 10). “ H owe ve r, s t a n d a r d procedure dictates that we must hand over all relevant evidence in the case to the public prosecutor so they can decide whether or not Mr Pendlebury should be charged.”

Mr Pendlebury was on his way home from a Rotary Club meeting just after midnight on March 11 when he stopped

(From right) Lt Col Boonruang, V/Gov Panlop and Maj Pichit discuss projects aimed at boosting tourists’ safety during their stay in Phuket. Photo: Nattha Thepbamrung

Phuket receives B3bn to boost public safety, security for tourists Mark Pendlebury (2nd from left) talks to police after the attack in March. to film security guards from the Tai Pan disco ejecting two men from the nightclub.

He said a security guard ordered him to stop filming and then attacked him.

T h e s e c u r it y g u a r d , 25-yea r- old Sa nya K h lu e awa e ng m o n , wa s stabbed in the ensuing scuffle.

He later died in hospital.

Col Jessada declined to provide the CCTV footage to The Phuket News.

“At this stage it is still evidence that we must hand over to the public prosecutor,” he said.

Col Jessada explained that the new CCTV footage was also instrumental in the victim’s family’s decision to

drop their complaint against Mr Pendlebury.

However, Mr Pendlebury was fined B500 for carrying a knife in a public place, he said.

“And we are now looking to charge the other nightclub doormen involved in the incident with accessory to assault,” he concluded.

‘Laughing gas’ party pic goes viral, prompts health warning PHOTOS OF TH R EE young foreign women on Phi Phi Island reportedly under the effects of inhaling nitrous oxide, better known as “laughing gas”, have gone viral on social media, prompting officials to issue a health warning.

T he photos show the women lying on pavement near bars and apparently inhaling the gas from balloons.

Locals have reported to The Phuket News that balloons filled with nitrous oxide are commonly available on Phi Phi, which serves as a common party destination for young tourists in Phuket.

“These balloons are everywhere, and the average cost is about B200 each,” one operator said.

However, officials have

The three young women were pictured near a bar complex, and were apparently inhaling laughing gas from balloons.

Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub yet to find any persons on the pictured in order to know island selling the “laughing where to start our search,” balloons”. said Dr Manas Soponpong “We have yet to iden- of the Krabi Health Office tify where the women were on Tuesday (June 9).

Dr Manas explained that nitrous oxide is a controlled substance in Thailand, but was readily found in products easily obtained by the public.

“Clinics and dentists in the past used this gas as a general anaesthetic, but that is no longer common practice,” he said.

“But today this gas is used by food-processing plants, and is even used to fill cans of whipped cream.”

Although nitrous oxide can be easily found, Dr Manas strong warned against inhaling the gas.

“Inhaling it can induce a euphoric effect of feeling happy, but if too much gets into your system, it can have severe effects and may even cause death,” he said.

Eakkapop Thongtub

Nattha Thepbamrung reporter3@classactmedia.co.th

THE GOVERNMENT HAS granted Phuket a B3-billion budget for safety and security management projects in an attempt to make the island a model province for sustainable tourism.

The announcement came at seminar held on Monday (June 8) and attended by Pol Gen Pichit Kuandechakup and Pol Lt Gen Boonruang Polpanich of the National Legislative Assembly (NLA).

Joining the generals were Phuket Governor, Nisit Jansomwong; Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Tourism and Sport, Kajorn Weerajai; and about 1,000 representatives from Phuket business operators.

The seminar also saw the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Phuket province and national authorities on public safety and security standards for sustainable tourism.

Speaking at the seminar, Gov Nisit said, “The budget we have been allocated will be spread across many projects about safety and security.

“More CCTVs will be installed around the island using a budget of B285 million. We will also use some of the budget to build u-turn flyovers in Koh Kaew and Thalang, and flood protection systems in Patong, Phuket Town and Karon.”

He also stated that Klong

Kata dam which will hold 4.3 million cubic meters to supply Chalong, Karon and Rawai will be ready for use on August 18 and that a budget of B60 million will be spent on a drainage system in Karon.

Gen Pichit said, “After studying all possibilities, we chose Phuket to be the model for other provinces for safety and security measures for sustainable tourism.

“We believe that Phuket is the province with the highest potential because of its popularity with tourists, its geography and existing management systems.

“We believe that safety and security are the keystones for sustainable tourism, and this is why we decided to sign an MoU on safety and security management.

“T his MoU has been signed by 23 official units from around the island to ensure that tourists and their property will be safe, and that they will receive sincere hospitality from local people and businesses.

“We would also like to encourage businesses to create their own association to control what each of them does, and to create rules to create and maintain standards.”

Gov Nisit noted, “There is a consul meeting every three months and the next meeting is coming soon. I will update them about the MoU so they can spread the message of trust to people from their countries.”

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FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

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FRI JUNE 12

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Long waits

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South African tourist Laurie Viljoen Botha (center) was arrested for filing a false police report.

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TOURIST POLICE, IN cooperation with Phuket City Police, arrested a 33-year-old South African national last Saturday (June 6) after he confessed to filing a false police report that personal items had been stolen from his Phuket Town hotel room Mr Laurie Viljoen Botha filed a police report at Phuket City Police Station, alleging that various personal items had been robbed from his room at

the Sino Imperial Hotel on Phuket Rd in Phuket Town.

However, police became suspicious after they studied the hotel’s CCTV footage, which showed the suspect leaving the hotel with a bag.

Police invited the suspect back to the police station for further questioning, a session which finally concluded with the suspect signing a threepage confession that he had lied about the robbery in order to file an insurance claim in his home country.

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hose wanting to get a new motorbike or car licence in Phuket will have to wait longer than they probably expected, as a reporter at The Phuket News found out on Tuesday (June 9).

A f t e r w a it i n g s i n c e 7:30am, she was told to come back on July 28 just for her training class – a whole day spent watching training videos.

Supatra Sutham has been learning to drive for some time and was well prepared for her much-anticipated visit to the Phuket Land Transport Office Department (PLTO), where the tests are conducted.

She arrived at 7:30am with all the necessary paperwork and was expecting to spend the day completing her mandatory traffic law and road safety training. She thought she would then be able to return the next day for her driving test.

Ms Supatra handed in her documentation and signed in on the daily log. It was explained to her that although the sign on the entrance stated that only 70 people per day were accepted for the training, the office actually accepts 80. She was the 71st person to sign the log that day.

However, that’s when the procedure started taking unexpected turns.

The first change in proce-

The queue of people applying for driver’s licenses stretches out the door at the PLTO. Photo: Steven Layne dures from those previously reported was that it was now not necessary to hand over your doctor’s certificate during “the registration stage”.

The medical permit is required only when you come in for the training – which was what Ms Supatra thought she was there for, so the doctor’s certificate was duly refused and handed back to her.

Next, everyone on the registration list was sent for an eye examination, where applicants waited until their name was called, one by one.

After Ms Supatra passed the eye test, all her paperwork was handed back to her and she was told to come back on her allocated training day. To her astonishment, on July 28.

Not only did this mean that Ms Supatra spent the morning waiting for basically nothing, but also that by the time her appointment date arrives, her doctor’s certificate will no longer be valid and she will have to pay for another one.

It was not only Ms Supatra

who was annoyed with her wasted morning, one teenager, Nicom, said “I should have gone to Phang Nga to do my licence with my friends.

Now I will have to wait until next month to do my licence in Phuket.”

PLTO staff told Ms Supatra that a large number of licence applicants arrive each day and that all applicants are given a later training date.

Those applying now will have to wait until the end of July to do their training.

“If you come in early and sign the daily log it doesn’t mean you will train on that day. It is impossible. You have to come in and register first then we schedule you for the training session,” said one member of staff who asked to remain anonymous.

However, it is not only those wanting new licences who will are facing a wait, one woman who had visited the PLTO office on Tuesday to renew her licence was told that she will have to return on June 11.

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FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

Police smash ‘B100mn’ Korean gambling ring

PHUKET NEWS

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Nattha Thepbamrung reporter3@classactmedia.co.th

E

ight Koreans have been arrested in Phuket for running an online gambling operation that police estimate would have had an annual turnover of more than B100 million.

Wichit Police arrested the men in raids on four different condo units at an apartment block near Dowroong Wittaya School on June 3.

The men were named as: Lee Seok Joong, 30; Joo Seung Oh, 28; Han Hong Hee, 28; Kim Young Jae, 33; Oh Se Won, 35; Lee Jung Min, 31; Moon Hyun Cheol, 34; and Lee Kang Yong, 35.

Police are still looking for the mastermind behind the gambling ring, who they believe is still in Phuket, Maj Gen Pachara Boonyasit, commander of the Phuket Provincial Police, told the press.

During the raids, police seized B60,000 in cash, desktop and notebook computers, mobile phones and more than 100 other items found in the rooms. They also seized 100

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Mr Apiwat Sriphet, 29, was gunned down in the street as he ran, begging for bystanders to help him.

Hotel employee slain after drunken brawl The eight Koreans were arrested at a condo project near Dowroong School in Wichit. one-time-password devices and the bankbooks for their corresponding bank accounts.

“The gang started their illegal business about three months ago,” explained Gen Pachara. “They work for a Korean gambling website and accept only Korean members.”

The men were personal account managers for clients, he added.

Transactions recorded in the bank accounts seized showed that the cash turnover for the operation so far averaged about B100,000 per day, but Gen Pachara said that he did not believe that indicated

the full volume of transactions handled by the group.

“The full turnover would have been more than B100 million,” he said.

The Koreans, who remained silent during the press conference, reportedly told police that they were each paid B60,000 a month.

“They confessed that they chose to operate the website from inside Thailand as the punishment in Korea is much tougher – up to five years in jail and a fine of up to [the equivalent of] hundreds of thousands of baht,” Gen Pachara said.

In Thailand, the punishment is from three months to three years in jail or a fine of up to B60,000, or both, he noted.

Police are investigating whether the eight men arrested have any connection to the five Koreans arrested in Bangkok earlier this month, and seven more in May – all for running a gambling website.

“We will also contact the South Korean embassy and provide them with details of the people who used the online gambling website, as the members all live over there,” Gen Pachara said.

POLICE SAY THE TWO suspects arrested early last Sunday morning (June 7) have confessed to shooting another man who bled to death on a crowded street hours earlier in front of a big crowd of night revellers near Chalong Circle.

Mr Tharapong Nebbua, 26, of Phatthalung, was named as the shooter, and Mr Yuranun Thongpantae, 27, also of Phatthalung, was named as the getaway motorbike driver.

The pair were snatched up by police at 4am at a house near Tesco Lotus Chalong.

T he ar rests followed a swift manhunt after police were initially alerted at 1:15am of a shooting on Patak Rd, about 500 metres from Chalong Circle.

Police arrived at the scene,

where they found the body of Mr Apiwat Sriphet, 29, face down in the middle of the road and surrounded by hysterically crying relatives, and dozens of onlookers.

Mr Apiwat, a Trang native who lived nearby and worked at a hotel in Karon, reportedly had been drinking and socialising for several hours at the nearby “Plern @ Chalong” night venue with three friends when an all-out brawl erupted.

Witnesses said that Mr Apiwat was running away from the brawl and was pleading for help when Tharapong and Yuranun rode up on a motorbike and opened fire with a homemade gun, hitting him four times in his upper torso.

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FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

Graft busters heed call Police called to Bangkok not suspects in Vard corruption case, says lead investigator Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

S

ix Phuket police officers called to Bangkok to answer questions about the alleged extortion and embezzlement of B65 million of assets from Phuket resident Colin Vard and his family are not suspects in the case, The Phuket News was told this week.

The six officers were questioned personally by national police chief Gen Somyot Pumpunmuang last week, confirmed Pol Lt Col Chai Sanguansin, deputy superintendent of Interpol Thailand on Tuesday (June 9).

“It was a failure of communication problem,” he explained. “They each received a complaint filed by Mr Vard, but all of them treated the complaint they received individually.

They did not check with each other about the other complaints filed.”

In his plea to Gen Somyot for justice, Mr Vard said a group of prominent figures in Phuket colluded to forge legal documents to trick him out of assets worth about B65 million.

He said the culprits are powerful people including senior justice authorities, bankers and real estate agents.

According to police, Mr Vard has owned and operated the Phuket Property Development Co since

Lt Col Chai Sanguansin (crouching, in blue shirt) of Interpol Thailand hears Colin Vard’s plea in Bangkok.

2001.

Mr Vard said the scam began when Ms Nittaya Sukhampha, the mother of his son, borrowed B600,000 from loan sharks to open a noodle shop.

But as the loan’s interest rate went up, his family could not pay off the debt so Ms Nittaya was forced to collude with the loan sharks to dupe him out of the money.

As the scam unfolded, Mr Vard said he lost the properties owned by his company, and his house worth around B65 million in total to powerful figures as they conspired to forge legal documents.

In June, 2013, a group of armed

men forced him to leave his house.

His properties were later sold to investors and he neither acknowledged the sales nor received money. Mr Vard later filed a lawsuit to reclaim his properties but the scammers paid B1.2 million to his lawyer to ensure he lost the case.

“It is a very complicated case,” lead investigator Col Chai told The Phuket News. “We’ve been given three months to conclude our investigation, which we will need to figure out what happened.”

Col Chai, who was ordered directly by Gen Somyot to lead the investigation into the Vard complaint, declined to name the six

Phuket officers called to Bangkok.

“At this stage, we cannot reveal the identities of the people accused in this case,” he said.

“But I can say that it involves officials, a property broker in Phuket and a lawyer, as well as witnesses.”

Meanwhile, the Vard family has been granted police protection.

“We know that Mr Vard has received threats over the phone.

We are watching this and we have to provide security for them,” Col Chai said.

Gen Somyot ordered Col Chai to lead the investigation after hearing Mr Vard’s complaint in person on June 2.

The police chief also ordered Pol Col Veerawat Chantaravijit, deputy chief of the Phuket Provincial Police, and Yodmongkol Sappaisansook, a senior lawyer from the Justice Ministry, to assist Col Chai in the investigation.

Mr Vard last Friday (June 5) posted a message of gratitude to the Royal Thai Police for the new investigation, and for the strong support that his daughter Jessie has received through her “Justice For Jessie” Facebook page.

The webpage has gone viral and now has more than 18,000 people following her posts.

“It is easy to criticize. Harder to be humble and that is how we feel today. Humbled by the support and kindness of the Thai people,” Mr Vard wrote.

“It is impossible not to be encouraged by so many young voices supporting us and demanding an end to corruption.”

Mr Vard was especially thankful for the decisive action taken by Gen Somyot.

“Under the leadership of Pol Lt Col Chai Sanguansin who has assured me, and I believe him, that he and his staff will investigate thoroughly and that everybody guilty will be punished.

“After working with them for two days I have to say that this is one team I would not like to come up against,” he wrote.

Man receives B16,000 water bill

Pornsak Sangsri could not understand why his bill was so high.

A MAN FROM RASSADA HAD a shock when he received a water monthly bill for over B16,000.

Unfortunately, the local water authority have insisted the man pay the bill in full as it was due to a leak inside his property.

The home owner, Pornsak Sangsri, complained to the Phuket Provincial Water Authority (PWA) when he received the bill, and on Friday (June 5), a team from went to his house on ThungkaKuandindang Rd in Rassada to investigate.

“I was surprised when I received a B16,829 water bill for May, said Mr Pornsak. “Only two people live here and we normally pay no more than B200 a month.

“I went to the provincial water work’s office because I thought there might be something wrong with the meter or the water supply system,” he said.

Following the inspection of the property, it was found that there was a pipe leaking under Mr Pornsak’s house and this caused the water meter to run constantly.

Officials advised Mr Pornsak to shut off the water when it was not needed and find a plumber to fix the leak as soon as possible.

Managing Director of the PWA, Pisak Cholayut, told reporters that home owners are responsible for water leaks found within their property, and that home owners are still responsible for paying the bill even if it is higher than normal.

However, he did state that in cases such as Mr Pornsak’s it is possible to pay the bill in install-

ments rather than as a one-time payment.

Mr Pisak also added that this type of incident is not a one-off and happens often in Phuket because the water pipes laid in housing project are not up to standard.

However, he added that it is the responsibility of the home owner to check their water meter to see if it is turning at a faster rate than usual so they can know if something is wrong.

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7

Gov puts stop to latex rip-offs Matt Pond editor3@classactmedia.co.th

L

atex-product outlets throughout Phuket have been ordered to set fixed prices for their products after businesses in Karon complained to Governor Nisit Jansomwong about them ripping off tourists.

The businesses had originally complained to the Director of the Phuket Office of Tourism and Sports, Mr Santi Pawai, on May 19.

But a lack of action taken has led to several Chinese tour operators refusing to take their customers to stay in Karon.

The order to set fixed prices came at a meeting held on June 4 among Gov Nisit; Mr Santi; Thai Hotel

the sales.

A number of tourists have also demanded to be taken back to the outlets where they bought goods to demand refunds.

Tour companies decided to solve the problem themselves by no longer bringing Chinese tourists to Karon, which as a result had damaged the Governor Nisit heard how Chinese tourists verbally and physically attacked tour guides for allegedly ripping income of local businesses.

Speaking at the meeting, them off.

Gov Nisit said, “The reason Association Vice President, be charged higher prices for we are holding this meeting Krisada Tansakul; head of products at the shops they are is to stop this ongoing probthe Phuket Chinese Tour taken to by their tour guides. lem which is hurting local Operators Club, Mr Somchart As a result, a number of businesses.

Jaibanjert; and government tour guides have been verbally “As we can see, hotels officials and representatives and physically attacked by have no tourists, tour comChinese tourists who have panies have been bombarded from the private sector.

Businesses in Karon, learnt they have been taken by angry tourists wanting who sell latex products at to shops that sell over-priced to return goods they have discounted prices, have been products, and that the guides been overcharged for, and telling tourists that they will are paid commissions from the local latex stores have no

customers.

“However, what is worse is that this issue has damaged the island’s tourism image.

Therefore, we must come up with a solution to solve this problem.

“If we let this issue linger, it will spread to other areas because as we know the rubber stores have other branches around the island.”

Gov Nisit went on to state that Phuket expects to see an increase in the number of Chinese tourists visiting the island and that they should pay fair prices for items they buy.

“No tourists should pay higher prices for any goods in Phuket,” he said.

It was decided at the meeting that all latex products will have set prices and this will be the same in every store.

It will be down to the Phuket Chamber of Commerce to visit all of the island’s latex stores and to check that the prices are correct.

Mr Somchart added that most Chinese tour companies wanted to take their customers to stay in Karon because of the beautiful beaches and luxury hotels. However, since this issue came to a head, they have not brought any tourists to the area.

Instead, they have taken them to stay in Rawai and Nai Yang.

“I agree that we should come up with a pricing agreement where every shops sells their products at the same retail price. However, I am not sure if it is going to work out,” he said.

Bus-truck smash blamed on out-of-order traffic lights Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

Rescue workers carry the turtle after safely removing it from the net.

Sea turtle saved by lifeguards Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

LIFEGUARDS SAVED AN Olive Ridley sea turtle which they found trapped in a fishing net at Mai Khao Beach last week. Luckily, the turtle had only suffered a slight cut to one of its flippers.

The lifeguards spotted the turtle close to the Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas on the afternoon of June 7 and soon discovered that it had a fishing net wrapped around its right flipper.

After safely removing the turtle from the net it was taken to the Marine and Coastal Resources Research Development Institute where an official stated that it is possible the turtle had been trapped in the net for three days. The turtle is still being cared for at the institute.

In previous years, Olive Ridleys were often found along the Andaman coast where they settled to lay their eggs.

However, the sight is not so common nowadays and it is estimated that more than 30 injured turtles are washed up along the coast each year. @thephuketnews

ELEVEN PEOPLE WERE taken to hospital on Tuesday (June 9) when a delivery truck collided with a Phuket to Had Yai tour bus at the Na Neua junction in Ao Luek in Krabi.

Police have blamed the incident on traffic lights which were not in service.

At 2:26pm, Ao Luek police were called to the scene of an accident where a delivery truck had collided head-on with a bus on Phetkasem Rd. Upon arrival at the scene, police and rescue workers

found a tour bus which was carrying passengers from Phuket to Had Yai lying on its side in a ditch.

A damaged Toyota truck was in the middle of the road.

Eleven passengers were trapped inside the bus, and when safely removed were taken to Ao Luek Hospital for treatment.

Of the 11, five remain in hospital with serious injuries.

The Toyota truck driver was also injured and taken to Thap Put Hospital in Phang Nga. Witnesses told police that the tour bus was coming from the direction of Phuket and

the Toyota from the direction of Surat Thani. The vehicles crashed head-on at high speed at a set of traffic lights which were not working at the time.

Police are investigating the incident further to see who, if anyone, was responsible.

Opinion 8

OPINION

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E

EDITORIAL

The thin grey line

very now and then a seemingly routine declaration of war on corruption by Thailand’s leader of the day carries with it something different – a whiff of hope that real change may be in the wind. The national broadcast

by Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha on Monday (June 8) brought exactly that.

We’ve all seen such vows to end corruption before, but this one came with a twist.

The nationwide broadcast on radio and TV was timed to perfection, from 9-11am, when PM Prayut knew that officials had to be in the office for their weekly meeting.

He also ordered the broadcast to be played at every provincial hall across the country, with every government agency ordered to have officers attend.

This part wasn’t for the public.

This message was directly aimed at the very people ac-

cused of bending and breaking the rules just so they could line their own pockets.

Combine this with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) recently delivering its second list of names of officials suspected of graft, and the move to cleanse the “civil service” of dirty officials at a level that directly affects everyday people’s lives seems to be moving forward.

The list delivered last week identified 152 officers, including high-ranking officials such as ministerial permanent secretaries, and ex-Phuket Governor Wichai Phraisa-ngop, who is accused of having asked for more than B150mn to have land titles issued amounting to more than a billion baht.

To be fair, Mr Wichai is far from alone in facing accusations of graft. Of note is that PM Prayut’s anti-graft missive to officials came within

48 hours of the embarrassing debacle of Phuket resident Colin Vard and his now famous daughter Jessie marching on Bangkok to plea for justice in their case of alleged extortion.

The powers that be finally recognised the danger in ignoring their plea – the message has been written loud and clear on the Facebook wall for the world to see. Corruption is rife, and nothing is being done about it.

For many expats, corruption has always been a part of living here, it was only the extent that it directly affected everyday people’s lives that mattered. Even the “victimless” plundering of state coffers has long been considered “not a good thing”, but nowhere near as bad as direct exploitation of individuals.

But the new campaign brings hope. Now we shall wait and see how serious PM Prayut is with this latest purge.

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Phuket hotel employee gunned down in front of dozens of witnesses after drunken brawl, shooter arrested Decomposed corpse found on hill near Patong could be tourist: authorities South African arrested for falsifying police report in failed insurance fraud claim Thousands evacuated as large volcano in North Sumatra shows signs of big eruption Phuket bungee death jump ow n e r to b e charged Monday Navy ramps up push to demolish Phuket beach club Governor puts stop to Phuket latex rip-offs Three arrested in Phuket tourist hub for drug possession Phuket police smash ‘B100mn’ Korean online gambling ring South African, 55, dies after visit to Karon clinic with chest pains

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

HAVE YOUR SAY Crackdown is welcome here Re: Parents join juvenile racers in rehabilitation programme They want to come to Phuket and arrest all the crazy bad drivers, there’s thousands of them, old, young, Thai and Farangs, drive like lunatics!

Malczx7r

Put this puppy on a pedestal!

Re: Dog rescues baby from trash I would like to know if this dog has a home now? Did he get a Hero Ceremony or something? i would like to give something to Nom Sod (fresh Milk). She is a Hero and Deserves recognition and this Story told All over the World.

Joy. HG Thank you Hip Hop Hen

We’re not talking about the rodents Re: Record Mice groups head for Thailand Am I the only person reading this who has absolutely no idea what it’s about? I’m fairly sure it’s not referring

to squeaking rodents, but no further explanation is given.

Chalong Thank you - Mice is the standard acronym for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE)... now added into the story above to clarify Chris Husted, Executive Editor

Something’s not adding up here Re: Phuket bungee death jump owner to be charged Monday My question is how did this business get and keep a business license without insurance? I know, they had a short term policy when they let it lapse. The government is so stupid, underfunded and lazy they do not monitor business insurance policies like vehicle insurance policies. Some government agency officials should be prosecuted or at least required to improve the process to keep track of these inherently dangerous businesses right to operate conditional on insurance. I hope this matter goes viral and the world learns that Thailand

is a VERY dangerous country.

Marcos989

Coming to see Phuket’s poles Re: The art of pole dancing in Phuket It’s fantastic to see Pole Dancing being established as a sport in Phuket! I’ve lived in Singapore and Australia for about a decade and Pole Dancing is well accepted not only as a unique dance activity but in the fitness and wellness space too. As a cultural dancer I look forward to popping in for a visit soon! jaseminsibo

Thai traffic 101 Re: Crash injures 11, blamed on out of order traffic lights “They crashed head-on”. This suggests they were coming from opposite directions so how would lights that would probably have been green in both directions have changed things?

Tamvong Of course if the traffic lights weren’t working, any normal driver would approach with

caution, but this is Thailand where careful and considerate driving is about as common as pigs flying!! malczx7r

Out in just two hours!

Re: Long waits ahead for driver’s licenses in Phuket I went there on 4 June at 8:30am. Big crowds. First line to get paperwork approved was about 75 deep and took 25 minutes. Second line to take a 10 second color blind test took 1 1/4 hours. Third line to actually get a 2 new laminated auto and motorcycle license to 20 minutes. But, the whole process took me 2 hours today at the DMV. Everyone getting a new license was schedule for the training class the following week. Items and costs required for each license: Health certificate from a doctor. $6.50 Residence verification from the immigration bureau. No charge. License application fee: $15.00 License printing fee: $6.50 Total cost for a five year license is $28.00. So, in spite of the crowd, I was out of there in two hours.

Foot

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

THAILAND NEWS

9

‘Fighting graft a top priority’ PRIME MINISTER PRAYUT Chan-Ocha presided over the launch of an anti-corruption campaign at Government House on Monday (June 8), stressing that fighting graft is one of his top priorities.

At the event, the prime minister and participants made a vow to fight against corruption.

Although the government has been fully committed to tackling graft, much work remains before it is rooted out, he said.

The premier said the government has stepped up efforts to deal with corruption in state procurement projects, and is trying to curb socalled “grey businesses” in which officials have become involved.

He also stressed the need to stamp out the widespread practice of giving and collecting “convenience fees” or tea money, which is one of the most common forms of corruption.

Gen Prayut urged the public to come forward if they know of any officials who are collecting tea money. Complaints can be lodged at the Damrongtham complaints centres nationwide.

“Officials’ lack of conscience has damaged the civil service and made it lose credibility. I am trying to devote my time to restoring confidence in government agencies,”

@thephuketnews

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha presided at the launch of an anti-corruption campaign at Government House Monday (June 8), in which participants took an honesty vow. (Photo by Thanarak Khunton) Gen Prayut said.

He also criticised the notion among Thais who regard corruption and cheating as acceptable as long as the ill-gotten gains from such dishonest practices are shared among them.

“The idea that cheating is alright, as long as what you gain from cheating is shared, is to cheat yourself and the country,” he said.

Gen Prayut said that even though the country’s corruption ranking improved last year to 85 out of a

total of 175 countries, compared with a ranking of 102 in 2013, the government is still not satisfied and has to do much more to combat graft.

Meanwhile, the Centre for National Anti-Corruption (CNAC) has submitted a second list of allegedly corrupt officials to Gen Prayut so he can consider whether to suspend them alongside 45 others already on inactive duty.

Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) secretary-

general Prayong Preeyajit said on Monday the second list of names contains 152 officials suspected of being involved in graft.

They include high-ranking officials such as ministerial permanent secretaries, he said.

The second batch was compiled from lists submitted by graft-busting agencies including the National Anti-Corruption Commission, the Office of the Auditor-General, the Anti-Money Laundering Office and the PACC.

The lists, which were written up following probes into officials’ conduct, are part of a government effort to rid the bureaucracy of corruption.

The next step will be for each ministry to launch internal inquiries and suspend suspects from duty, pending investigations into the allegations of corruption, Mr Prayong said.

The names of those transferred or suspended from duty will be announced in the Royal Gazette, he said.

Mr Prayong, as the CNAC secretary, added that some officials on the second list can be transferred and suspended under the premier’s orders issued under Section 44 of the interim charter, while others can be shifted through internal reshuffles in their ministries.

The suspension order is meant to prevent officials from tampering with evidence during the investigations, Mr Prayong said.

Gen Prayut earlier issued an order under Section 44 of the interim charter to suspend 45 senior officials, pending corruption investigations.

Mr Prayong also said graftbusting agencies will continue to issue lists of allegedly corrupt officials as long as there is evidence implicating them. Bangkok Post

10 ASIA NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

Japan’s male virgins

The heartache for Japan’s 40-year-old male virgins

T

akashi Sakai is a healthy 41-year-old heterosexual man with a good job and a charming smile. But he’s never had sex, one of a growing number of middleaged Japanese men who are still virgins.

Sakai has never even had any kind of relationship with a woman, and says he has no idea how he might get to know one.

“I’ve never had a girlfriend.

It’s never happened,” he said.

“It’s not like I’m not interested.

I admire women. But I just cannot get on the right track.”

A 2010 survey by the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research found that around a quarter of unmarried Japanese men in their 30s were still virgins.

The figure was up around three per cent from a similar survey in 1992.

The period corresponds with Japan’s prolonged economic slowdown when the one-time financial powerhouse suffered years of lacklustre growth.

Matchmaking expert Yoko

Middle aged men sketch a nude model at a studio in Tokyo. Photo: Yoshikazu Tsuno/AFP) Itamoto says the economic emasculation has taken its toll on Japan’s men.

“Many men seem to have lost confidence as they’ve lost their economic muscle,” she said.

“In the past two decades, the situation for Japanese men has been very tough and competitive.”

The pain caused by an inability to form emotional and physical relationships with women is something that one 49-year-old architect, who did not wish to be named, knows too well.

Only twice in his life has he had romantic and sexual feelings for a woman – the first time in his mid-twenties and then again two decades later.

Both rebuffed him.

“It was devastating,” he told AFP. “It seemed to invalidate my life and take away my reason to live.”

On both occasions he suffered rapid weight-loss, and now fears he might live life as a singleton and a virgin.

Directly comparable international statistics are difficult to come by, but Japanese people across the board appear to have

less sex than those in other developed countries.

In the 2010 survey quoted previously, 68 per cent of 1819 year olds in Japan said they were virgins; a study carried out that year in Europe by condom maker Durex found virginity rates among those aged 15-20 were much lower.

For example, fewer than 20pc of young Germans had not had sex by the time they hit 20, while even in socially conservative Turkey, the figure was only 37pc.

For Shingo Sakatsume, there is something of a conun-

drum about modern Japan: a country where images of sex are everywhere yet serious conversations about it are few and far between.

“In today’s Japan, we have no place to learn about sex or how to form a romantic relationship,” he said.

Sakatsume runs the nonprofit group “White Hands”, which helps heavily handicapped people find an outlet for their sexual needs, based on the credo: “Sexual maturity means social maturity.”

“Even if the person has disabilities, one who recognises

and accepts his own sexuality tends to be able to build balanced relations with others,” he said.

“People who are not sexually mature tend to get timid socially.”

He now also caters to ablebodied people whose attitudes to sex can prove something of a barrier to their finding fulfilment.

41-year-old Sakai has enrolled in the Virgin Academia and goes to life drawing classes, where he sketches naked women as part of a scheme to help participants understand the female body.

“The first time I did this, in autumn last year, oh... I was so amazed. Their bodies are incredibly beautiful,” he said.

Sakai feels his time at the Virgin Academia has been useful. He doesn’t know if he will ever pass that particular milestone, but the course has helped him to see his lack of sexual experience as less of life or death thing.

“There is no need to be so pessimistic,” he said. “After all, being a virgin isn’t fatal.” AFP

Eaten to near extinction A BIRD THAT WAS ONCE one of the most abundant in Europe and Asia is being hunted to near extinction because of Chinese eating habits, according to a study published on Tuesday (June 9).

The population of the yellow-breasted bunting has plunged by 90 per cent since 1980, all but disappearing from eastern Europe, Japan and large parts of Russia, said the study, published in the Conservation Biology journal.

Following initial population declines, China in 1997

A yellow-breasted bunting.

Photo: Sergey Yeliseev banned the hunting of the species, known in the country as the "rice bird".

However, millions of these birds, along with other songbirds, were still being killed for food and sold on the black market as late as 2013, said

the study.

It said consumption of these birds has increased as a result of economic growth and prosperity in East Asia, with an estimate in 2001 claiming one million buntings were consumed in China's southern Guangdong province alone.

The birds breed north of the Himalayas and spend their winters in warmer southeast Asia, passing through eastern China where they have been hunted for more than 2,000 years, according to the conservation group BirdLife International. AFP

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

WORLD NEWS 11

Freed after four decades in solitary

The alleged scammer Gilberte Van Erpe. Photo: Marc Melki

5,500 duped in big ‘magic cheese’ scam A

French woman went on trial Monday (June 8) accused of conning thousands of Chileans into buying a kit to make “magic cheese” they could sell back to French cosmetics companies for use in luxury beauty products.

Gilberte Van Erpe, 74, allegedly told her victims the prized ingredient was even used in creams favoured by celebrities such as Michael Jackson, but the goop was worthless and the scam became one of the biggest pyramid schemes ever seen in South America.

The “case of the magic cheese”, as it is known in France, began in 2005 when the businesswoman dubbed “Madame Gil” held conferences around Chile urging people to become home producers of the fermented product.

Her company, Fermex Chile, had some 20 branches around Chile.

For 369 euros (B14,083) investors could buy a kit containing filters and a special powder which when mixed with

@thephuketnews

milk and fermented, produced a small cheese pat they were told was highly sought after by the cosmetics industry.

Fermex promised that companies like French cosmetics giant L’Oreal would snap up the cheese for use in whitening creams and other products.

That is, after they were sold to a company in CongoBrazzaville which would sell them on to France.

Victims were told they could double their initial investment in four months.

To entice the first victims, the kits were given away for free, and people were paid for their first batches of exported “magic cheese”, convincing them to reinvest their earnings.

The success of the business initiative spread rapidly and a Chilean investigation showed some 5,500 people were ensnared.

Many families mortgaged their houses or became heavily indebted to invest in the pyramid scheme, which raked in 14.5 million euros for the alleged scammers.

Like most pyramid schemes the scam relied on rapid growth, with initial investors telling their friends, neighbours and family about its profitability and getting them to join.

Victims were spurred to sign up friends and family with the promise of gifts and reward money.

One person received a cheque of 100 million pesos for their recruitment skills.

The cheque turned out to be fake, investigations showed.

As for the “magic cheese”, it never even left the country and a Chilean journalist later found tonnes of it rotting in a warehouse.

The scam collapsed in July 2006 and Van Erpe was arrested in the southern French city of Nice in 2008, but it was not possible to extradite her.

Chilean authorities are thus pursuing her in France, where she is standing trial for two days alongside three alleged accomplices. Van Erpe had allegedly used the same scheme to trick thousands of Peruvians a few years earlier.

AFP

A US FEDERAL JUDGE on Monday (June 8) ordered the release of the country’s longest-serving solitary confinement prisoner, who was imprisoned as such for almost 43 years.

Albert Woodfox, 68, was placed in solitary confinement at Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola and other facilities in the state, due to a since-overturned conviction for the death of a prison guard during a 1972 prison riot.

US District Judge James Brady ordered Woodfox’s unconditional release, and barred any further trial on the murder charges.

“Evidence supporting claims of Mr Woodfox’s innocence gives this Court even more reason to question his two previously overturned convictions,” Brady wrote in his order.

In November, the US Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit overturned Woodfox’s conviction, but he was charged again at state level in February.

Woodfox has long maintained his innocence, namely citing a witness who said he was not involved in the

Albert Woodfox was convicted in 1973 of the murder of a prison officer in Louisiana State Penitentiary. murder, as well as a scientific review of evidence at the scene that exculpated him and a polygraph test that found he had truthfully denied his involvement.

Brady’s order “arbitrarily sets aside jury decisions” based on “faulty procedural issues,” Louisiana Department of Justice spokesman Aaron Sadler was quoted as saying by local media.

“With today’s order, the court would see fit to set free a twice-convicted murderer who is awaiting trial again for the brutal slaying of Corrections Officer Brent Miller.”

Brady listed five “ex-

ceptional circumstances” for Woodfox to be released unconditionally and immediately, rather than the usual conditional release pending trial.

In addition to Woodfox’s age and “poor health,” the judge also listed his “lack of confidence in the state to provide a fair third trial, the prejudice done onto Mr Woodfox by spending over 40 years in solitary confinement, and finally the very fact that Mr Woodfox has already been tried twice and would otherwise face his third trial for a crime that occurred over 40 years ago.”

AFP

12 WORLD NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

CLASS ACTIONS ARE COMING, AND MAY CHANGE THE LEGAL AND CORPORATE LANDSCAPE Jerrold Kippen Tax & Law Expert Duensing Kippen

C

lass actions are coming to Thailand and they have the potential to significantly change civil litigation and corporate practices in Thailand.

Class actions are litigation cases that combine the claims of several claimant parties – often in the thousands or more – against one or possibly a few defendants. They are lawsuits that would generally never be brought under normal rules of court procedure because the number of claimant parties is too many to manage in one case, or because each of the claims is too small to justify the expense of bringing any of them to court individually, or both.

Class actions address both of these issues and allow for such claims to be brought together and managed in one case, thereby creating a large enough aggregate claim to cover the litigation expenses.

Thus, for example, some typical hypothetical class action cases might be: a bank or a telecom service provider overcharging each of its customers an unjustified fee of B1,000; or a car manufacture or pharmaceutical company producing a defective product that causes harm to their end consumers.

Successful prosecution of such class-action claims provides justice to such claimants and incentive for responsible corporate behaviour not otherwise currently available in Thailand.

Thailand aims to achieve these ends through a change in law by the Act Amending the Civil Procedure Code of Thailand Act (No. 26). The act was published on April 8 this year and will take effect on December 4. It adds 49 additional sub-sections to the code (the “CPC”) that will govern class actions in Thailand.

As defined by the act, a “Class Action” is a court

The Thai Civil and Commercial Code is in for some serious changes, including the possibility of class action lawsuits. proceeding in which a plaintiff pursues his interests, as well as, the interest of others who constitute a “class” of people like him.

A class is defined, in part, by the act as “a group of persons having identical rights arising from common issues of fact and law, as well as possessing identical characteristics specific to the Class…”

THE CLASS To initiate a class action, a plaintiff must file their own case and also request the court to allow their case to become a class action for the benefit of the other class members.

The type of cases in which that act allows a plaintiff to request the court to allow a class action are quite broad and include any cases involving torts, breaches of contract and “any other claims relating to other laws…”

The act provides some “examples” of such other laws and it appears that the intent is for class actions to be applicable to most, if not all, civil actions. In other words, it appears that it will not be applicable to cases regarding family, intestate, criminal, or matters not traditionally considered strictly “civil cases”.

THE ACTION Once requested, the court will then allow the case to proceed as a class action if it finds that: 1. The case and allegations on which it bases its case are clear and are equally applicable to both the plaintiff and the class members; 2. The plaintiff has demonstrated specific and sufficient identical characteristics apply to the class; 3. The number of class members is so large that the case would be cumbersome and inconvenient under the non-class action specific CPC rules of procedure; 4. Proceeding by way of class action would provide justice more efficiently than proceeding under the non-class action specific CPC rules of procedure; and 5. The plaintiff has sufficiently demonstrated that it is one of the class members and meets the qualifications of the act; and that the plaintiff and the plaintiff’s lawyer will represent the class effectively and fairly.

The act requires that all class members be notified of the class action both by mail and publication or other media means that the court deems

appropriate. Such notice is undoubtedly essential as it advises the class members that unless they formally “opt- out” of the class action, they will be bound by the final outcome of the case for better or worse. If they choose to remain in the class it also tells them what rights they have to participate in the case.

HAND IN POCKET The act provides that the court filing fee will be calculated based only on the plaintiff’s claims, and requires the plaintiff to deposit funds to cover the court-related expenses associated with the class action.

Thus, one area where this latter requirement may impede the pursuit of a class action is notice to the class members. If the plaintiff is poorly funded, possibly even as result of the defendant’s conduct, and the number of class members is comparatively too numerous, the plaintiff may not be able to advance sufficient funds to cover the cost of notice. In such event, the action will be dismissed without the claims, justified or not, being resolved.

One element of the act that may address the plaintiff’s funding issues is its provision for payment of the

plaintiff’s lawyer. The act provides that if the plaintiff wins the case, the court will determine the amount to be paid to the plaintiff’s lawyer.

This will be based on the plaintiff’s lawyer’s submission of fees and expenses to the court.

Where the judgement is monetary, the court may award such fees and expenses to the lawyer but not exceeding an amount equal to 30pc of the monetary judgement awarded to the class. Keep in mind, however, that the court may not award any costs of the class action that the lawyer may have paid advances on behalf of the plaintiff, such as the plaintiff’s deposit to cover court expenses.

OTHER MATTERS It should be noted that, where the Act has not provided otherwise, the usual CPC procedural provisions also apply to class actions. This includes the CPC’s rules on taking evidence. In Thailand, the evidence that the court evaluates is provided by each party separately to support its respective case.

This is not necessarily the same elsewhere.

In the United States, for

instance, where the modern class action began several decades ago, parties to a lawsuit, including class actions, must provide all evidence relevant to the case or which may lead to relevant evidence even if such evidence is detrimental to the party providing the evidence.

If a product or service provided was deficient, who would be more likely to posses evidence of such deficiency than the one who made the product or who provided the service? Thus, it is easy to see where such a rule would and has resulted in many successful outcomes for plaintiffs in class action cases in the United States against harmful product and service providers.

But the US rule is not applicable in Thailand. Thus, it remains to be seen how effective class actions in Thailand will be where the defendant will generally only be required to produce evidence favourable to its case.

THE FUTURE It should also be noted that the act contains several broad provisions that leave much to the court’s discretion. However, the act also gives the president of the Supreme Court of Thailand the authority to issue regulations under the act.

Thus, we would expect initial regulations detailing how the act will be implemented to be issued before the act’s effective date in December 2015.

Although there are currently some questions as to how the act will operate in practice and how effective it will be in addressing its intended purposes, overall this addition of the modern legal mechanism of class actions should be viewed as a positive contribution to litigation, corporate practices, and the public interest in Thailand.

Duensing Kippen is an international law firm specializing in business transaction and dispute resolution matters, with offices in Bangkok and Phuket, Thailand and affiliated offices in 45 other countries. Visit them at: duensingkippen.com

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

First, we take Patong

Wyndham’s Southeast Asia launch begins at Sea Pearl

G

lobal hospitality giant Wyndham has launched into Southeast Asia with the official opening of Wyndham Sea Pearl Resort Phuket in Patong.

The world’s largest hotel company, based on number of hotels, is one of three hospitality business units of Wyndham Worldwide and has rebranded the property previously known as Sea Pearl Villas Resort Phuket.

The 213-room Wyndham Sea Pearl Resort Phuket is owned by local developer, Sea Pearl Business Company Ltd and Sea Pearl Beach Company Ltd, and will operate as a mixed-use property managed

by Wyndham Hotel Group in partnership with Club Wyndham Asia.

The sleek, contemporary resort, which was constructed in 2011, is perfectly positioned a short distance to Patong Beach.

Located on 40 rai of hillside, the property boasts 180-degree views of the Andaman Sea. On-site facilities include four restaurants and bars; a multipurpose hall for meetings and events, complete with catering; and a five-star day spa offering a range of lavish treatments. There is also a fitness centre boasting a 35-metre

Wyndham sees the Sea Pearl Villas Resort in Patong as the perfect site from which to launch into Southeast Asia. lap pool, fully-equipped gym, yoga room and kids’ club.

Resort services include a free scheduled shuttle to Patong Beach and Jungceylon shopping mall; as well as concierge and limousine services.

The rebranding of Wyndham Sea Pearl Resort Phuket marked an exciting milestone for the rapidly expanding company, said Barry Robinson, President and Managing Director of Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific and Wyndham Hotel Group South East Asia and Pacific Rim. “The launch of our first Wyndham-branded property in Thailand is an important step in the growth of our Wyndham Hotel Group brands in

Southeast Asia, with more than 40 existing properties in the region and many more in the pipeline,” Mr Robinson said.

“Wyndham Sea Pearl Resort Phuket is our flagship mixed-use property in the region and will offer our hotel guests and Club Wyndham Asia members luxurious accommodation options as well as state-of-the-art wedding and event facilities.

“We are confident that it will be popular with both domestic and international guests travelling for business or leisure,” Mr Robinson added.

Managing Director of Sea Pearl Group, Mr Sitikorn Soontornnont, said, “We are thrilled to be partnering with

the world’s largest hotel group with its introduction into Thailand. We are certain that the globally-recognised Wyndham brand will be a perfect fit for the sleek and sophisticated style Wyndham Sea Pearl Resort Phuket offers.”

Wyndham Sea Pearl Resort Phuket will be supported by staff based at the newly established Wyndham Hotel Group office in Singapore.

Wyndham Hotel Group is the world’s largest hotel company based on number of hotels and is one of three hospitality business units of Wyndham Worldwide.

As both a leading hotel brand franchisor and hotel management services provider, the company’s global portfolio consists of approximately 7,650 properties and 661,000 rooms in 70 countries, including the brands: Dolce Hotels and Resorts, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham, Ramada Worldwide, Baymont Inn & Suites, Days Inn, Super 8, Howard Johnson, Travelodge and Knights Inn. Wyndham Rewards, the company’s guest loyalty program offers more than 38 million members the opportunity to earn and redeem points at thousands of hotels across the world.

BUSINESS NEWS 13

Westin lands new chef, sales director THE WESTIN SIRAY BAY Resort & Spa has announced the appointment of John Ranaudo as Executive Chef and Sanjana Bhattachan as the new Director of Sales & Marketing.

Before joining The Westin in Phuket, Ms Sanjana held the position of Director of Sales and Marketing at the Sheraton Krabi Resort & Spa. She began her hotel career in Nepal, then gradually moved up to key positions in sales and marketing in the AsiaPacific region. Ms Sanjana, who has previously worked for Marriott & Hyatt hotels, will oversee Sales, Events & Catering, and Marketing & Communications divisions at The Westin.

Meanwhile, Executive Chef Ranaudo brings more than 28 years of experience to the resort where he is responsible for the entire food operation.

Born and raised in Canada, Chef Ranaudo developed his passion in the food industry through exploring his his Italian roots. He began his career at independent hotels and progressed to reputable properties in Italy and Asia, including the Waldorf Astoria, Centara, Amari and Cape & Kantary hotels.

The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Phuket is the first Westin resort to open in

Executive Chef Ranaudo.

Sanjana Bhattachan.

Thailand. It offers a sensoryrich environment of calm and comfort to tired travelers. Located on Siray Island, off Phuket’s east coast, the entire resort overlooks picturesque Siray Bay and boasts a secluded beach with direct access. The resort is an eightminute drive from Phuket Town, 45-minute drive from Phuket International Airport and a boat ride from a cluster of world-renowned islands, including Phi Phi, James Bond, Similan and Maya islands, renowned for their white sandy beaches, pristine waters and abundant marine life.

Expert speaker to head Thai politics update seminar

Thai politics observer Graham Catterwell will be guest speaker.

THE BRITISH CHAMBER OF Commerce Thailand (BCCT), in collaboration with the French, German, Italian and Netherlands chambers of commerce, will hold a Phuket business dinner and discussion under the topic: “Update on the Thai Political Situation”.

Guest speaker at the event will be Mr Graham Catterwell, who has long been a keen observer of Thai politics, even before he became an international affairs advisor to Prime Minister Gen

Kriangsak Chomanan.

“International affairs advisor” sounds like a grand title, says the BCCT release announcing the event, but the main task was produce a daily basic guide to what happened in the world yesterday and overnight, as the then-massive turgid tomes from the Foreign Ministry proved too much of a challenge.

“For decades, Mr Catterwell has never been too far from the centre of political power. Having had personal dealings with most

Thai prime ministers in the period, he has colourful anecdotes on most… but unfortunately not all of these can be related in an open forum.

The event will held on June 25, from 6:30 to 8:30pm, at the Amari Phuket Beachfront Resort & Spa. Tickets to the event costs B850 per person, and include a threecourse dinner and soft drinks.

For more information visit BCCThai.com.

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14 WEIRD NEWS

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Gandalf The White weds Dumbledore

T

wo of the most recognisable names in the wizarding world came together on Sunday (June 7) for an unexpected cause – to join one another in holy, gay matrimony.

Two fictional characters, played by hired actors, wed one another on Sunday at the Equality House, which is painted the colors of the rainbow flag and regularly holds fundraisers to support the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

The marriage between Gandalf and Dumbldore emerged from a viral news story when Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling tweeted a meme proposing “what if

Dumbledore and Gandalf were gay together?” when Ireland passed the country’s Marriage Equality Referendum.

This prompted Westboro then tweeted at the author, threatening to picket a fic-

tional wedding ceremony – and Rowling had the perfect response.

This back-and-forth between the author and Westboro inspired Plating Peace founder Aaron Jackson to bring the

wedding to life order to raise money to counter the hateful messages of the Westboro Baptist Church.

Planting Peace is the organisation that founded and sponsors the Equality House.

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

A lack of sandwiches angers Kate Moss THE REASON BEHIND Kate Moss’ in-flight outburst has been revealed – she was angry the attendants had run out of sandwiches.

The model was returning from a £2,500 detox break in Turkey when the incident took place. According to various UK publications, Kate only lived on juices during her detox week, so when it came to an end she indulged in pizzas and booze before boarding her flight. But because of the detox her body wouldn’t have been able to cope as normal and the alcohol would have affected her much more strongly.

Witnesses claimed she was upset she and her friends – including Sadie Frost – couldn’t sit together on the budget flight, and that she was using strong language which offended other passengers.

But things allegedly re-

ally came to blows when the 41-year-old wanted a sandwich and was told they had ran out.

When f light attendants took their food breaks, Kate reportedly commented: ‘‘It’s f***ing all right for them to eat pasta when we’re hungry.’

A witness told The Sun: ‘She was sitting at the back with her friend and they were kicking off because the plane had run out of the sandwiches she wanted. However, people are far more shocked that Kate Moss flew with Easyjet than the fact she was escorted off the plane by police!

In the house of haunted dolls, a creator bares her heart WALKING INTO MAMA Ning’s Lair on the outskirts of Bangkok, one would be slightly disturbed by the body parts scattered around her house – a headless toddler, little limbs, bits of hair and tiny clothes

packed into buckets.

The body parts? Don’t mind those, said Chutipat Siripoh, one of Mama’s acolytes.

All those little parts would be put together to make a Look Thep or “Child God,” a doll

powered by a living soul said to change people’s lives.

Chutipat, a woman in her twenties, had traveled three hours from Nakhon Sawan province that day for Mama Ning to add real human hair

to her doll. It’s the home and workshop of Mananya Boonmee, a woman who went from selling purses to changing lives now called “Mama Ning.”

Three years ago, Mama Ning herself was driven by

desperation for change in her life to create “Petch,” Thailand’s first Look Thep.

With a little help from social media, the word discovers Look Thep.

Coconuts Bangkok

Guy posts graduation photo online; becomes internet celeb and meme A HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE POSTED a picture from his graduation ceremony on Imgur on June 4. Alongside the photo, he wrote, “I graduated high school last week, and this picture of me made it into my local newspaper.”

The internet is a wonderful place, it just couldn’t decide if he was the cutest thing they had ever seen, or simply an evil genius with a plan.

“I’m cutened by him. I wanna hug him.

If anyone ever hurts him, I’ll kill them,” says one user. Another said, “Phase one of your plans for world domination are complete.”

Alas, a delightful new internet meme was born.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

A hidden oasis in the heart of Patong

18

Students get ready to put on a show

LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

21

A favourite companion, from Madagascar to Phuket> Page 17

LOOKING FOR THE BEST

PROPERTY DEALS IN PHUKET *FIND THEM ON PAGE 27 @thephuketnews

16 EDUCATION

New online course hoped to improve quality of teachers

T

he Office of Basic Education Commission (OBEC) is introducing an online course called “Teachers and Educational Personnel Enhancement (TEPE)” with the aim of improving the quality of classroom instruction in schools nationwide.

According to the OBEC Secretary General, Kamol Rodklai, the online course, also known as “TEPE Online”, is among several urgent strategies OBEC is trying to achieve. The course has been developed by the Faculty of Education of Chulalongkorn University.

The TEPE Online provides online training for teachers, educational supervisors and school principals in various academic fields. Those completing the course will be able to apply for a teacher certificate or entitled to promotion. An exam will be held after the course is finished at the Primary Education Service Area Office in each province.

The TEPE Online will be tried for the first time beginning this month and is expected to be fully functional by August. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-Ocha will be invited to chair the opening ceremony and present a teacher smart card to each of the course applicants.

NNT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

Teacher at Head Start awarded Master’s Degree

O

ne of HeadStart’s own, Ms Katherine Axford, has completed her Master’s Degree in Education. Ms Axford, Year 5B teacher says, “In 2006 I was awarded a scholarship from the Department of Education in South Australia to complete a Graduate Certificate in Digital Technologies at the University of South Australia.

This was completed part-time while I was teaching full-time. In 2013, I decided again to study part-time and complete the Master of Education programme, specialising in Digital Technologies.”

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ENVIRONMENT 17

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

Diving into coral restoration

I

n conjunction with World Oceans Month, Outrigger Resorts has announced the launch of OZONE (Outrigger’s ZONE) – a global conservation initiative centred on coral health and resiliency in the waters surrounding the iconic beach destinations of Outrigger Resorts.

With over 60 per cent of the world’s reefs under immediate threat, Outrigger is making it their mission to work with conservation partners to protect coral reef systems in tropical destinations around the world.

Among the most valuable ecosystems on Earth, coral reefs provide humans with billions of dollars in economic and environmental services such as food, protection for coasts, and tourism. In fact, according to The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), reefs alone provide up to 15 tons of seafood per square kilometer each year. However, coral faces serious dangers, including the negative impact of climate change, unsustainable fishing, and land-based pollution.

“OZONE is an action plan that charts a clear course for Outrigger to make a positive impact in helping to save and protect coral reefs and ultimately the wellness of waters around the world,” said Bitsy Kelley, vice president of corporate communications for Outrigger Enterprises Group.

“As a lifelong surfer, swimmer and snorkeler, ocean health is near and dear to my heart and I’m extremely proud that Outrigger Resorts has pledged significant resources and is aligning with key conservation partners for this important cause.”

Inspiration for OZONE originated from Geoffrey Shaw, former owner of Castaway Island, Fiji Resort and chairman of the Mamanuca Environment Society – a group passionately committed to protecting the stunning marine and terrestrial environment of the Mamanuca Islands in Fiji. Due to his vision, guests of Outrigger will have the opportunity to be part of the solution, by helping to plant coral at participating properties, such as Castaway Island Resort.

Castaway Island, Fiji; 60% of all coral reefs around the world are under threat

Guest participation in planting new corals “With more than 500 million people around the world depending on coral reefs, it is our responsibility to ensure their future – however, we are the ones threatening its survival the most,” stated Mr Kelley. “And since coral grows at such a slow rate, the time is now to make a change.”

OZONE will generate awareness surrounding the status of coral reef systems while simultaneously enhancing the Outrigger Resorts guest experience through education. Guests will have the opportunity to learn more about the platform via in-room videos, on-property lectures, while also being a part of the solution by planting a coral at participating properties.

To mark World Oceans Month, Outrigger kicked off its commitment to ocean health on June 6 at the Waikiki Aquarium in Hawaii, one of the likeminded partners standing behind OZONE. June 6 also marked the signing of a memorandum of agreement between Outrigger and NOAA, stating both parties’ commitment to work to-

So in love with this bird MEET

the natives Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

T

he lovebird refers to one of nine species of bird that falls under the Agapornis genus.

In Thai it is also referred to as the lovebird, the pronunciation in Thai, due to transliteration would be “Lerv Berd”.

As its name suggests, the bird represents the symbol of “Love”, and they are said to always stay to close to one another in pairs as if in love, @thephuketnews

like couples, they are inseparable. The lovebird is a cute pet with their colourful feathers.

A favourite pet to many Phuketians, they are curious birds that will even come close to gentle humans with food, making their owners delighted.

Their average lifespan is 10 to 15 years, while

they range in length at wingspan from seven to 13 centimetres, weighing between 40-60 grammes.

The lovebird is native to Madagascar, Africa and Indonesia.

As there are nine different species, they feature various different colours. More information and observation can be had at Phuket Bird Park.

gether to support the conservation and education needs of the public.

“NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries is extremely proud to participate in the launch of the OZONE project. This unique partnership is quite rare in the federal government and the only one at NOAA between a federal agency and an international hotel chain,” stated Allen Tom, regional director of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

“Our mission of protecting life and property, while conserving this natural resource can only benefit from the collaboration with Outrigger Enterprises group.”

Strategic international partnerships for OZONE include NOAA, the Polyne-

sian Voyaging Society (PVS), and the Pacific Islands Ocean Observing System (PacIOOS). Regionally, Outrigger Resorts will be partnering with local organizations where its beachfront destinations are located. For example: The Waikiki Aquarium in Hawaii, Underwater World in Guam, the Mamanuca Environment Society in Fiji, Reef Conservation in Mauritius and more.

Corporate partners include Maui Divers Jewelry, Tori Richards, and Best Dives Maldives.

“On Island Earth, our future depends on our ability to care for our ocean. Our partnership with Outrigger Resorts for the M’lama Honua Worldwide Voyage will be key in raising awareness of ocean health through OZONE,” said Nainoa Thompson, president of the Polynesian Voyaging Society.”

Throughout the Worldwide Voyage, we will be celebrating World Oceans Day five times, but in reality, we celebrate our ocean every day.”

Outrigger will continue to demonstrate its dedication to the environment through existing and future sustainability and conservation initiatives present at a number of their premier beachfront destinations. With the conception of OZONE, Outrigger will grow its impact for years to come as the hospitality company continues to champion ocean health to travellers and consumers alike.

18 CITY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Living like a queen Dalia Hilmi editor1@classactmedia.co.th

From top: Hotel exterior; recreational area; one-bedroom pool villa; Craft Beer Lounge; Chou Chou delights

I

n Patong, with all its glory and famous nightlife, you would never imagine finding such a hidden gem. But, tucked away, and yet only minutes away from all the hustle and bustle, lies the Grand Mercure Phuket Patong.

The first and only resort in Patong to offer stand alone pool-villas.

Last Saturday (June 6), I was invited to stay at this year-old, five-star luxury resort. Admittedly, I wasn’t aware of how grand the hotel really was until I arrived. My friend and I arrived and were greeted by what can only be described as fabulous and friendly staff.

But before I indulged in what the delightful hotel had to offer, I sat down with the Executive Assistant Manager, Khun Sumontha Urvois, to find out more about the hotel’s prime assets.

Ms. Sumontha said that guests will feel the difference from the moment they arrive.

“The atmosphere here doesn’t make you feel like you’re in Patong. You could be in a calm and relaxing city.

“If you walk through the villas, I am sure you will be surprised and will wonder how such stunning villas could exist within such a chaotic and crowded city.”

The hotel’s prime gem is the pool villas. They are so exclusive, that many visitors to Patong are not even aware of their existence.

“We want people to know about these rooms and recognise that such luxury does indeed exist in Patong, even with the nightlife just minutes away.

“Guests can truly feel relaxed and be at peace here.”

As I walked through the grounds of the stunning resort I was surprised by how peaceful and quiet it was. It was easy to forget that I was right in the middle of Patong, just a stone’s throw from Bangla Road and Jungceylon.

Within the resort lies a large swimming pool which connects to 38 individual pool access rooms. The resort also features 252 superior, 10 suites, along with the 10 one-bedroom pool villas and four two-bedroom pool villas.

I was fortunate enough to stay in one of the one-bedroom pool villas. From the moment I entered, I felt like I was in a dream. A private gate surrounding a secluded space just for the guests. The garden included a lovely private sundeck and swimming pool, and inside the villa was a spacious living room, 40” LCD TV, sofa, mini bar, safety box, a grandeur bathroom which included both a bathtub and walk-in rain shower. We also had access to complimentary WIFI (a necessity for most young travellers today). The king size bed was one of the most comfortable I have slept in in a long time!

Dining wise, guests can take a culinary adventure in the swanky, appetising restaurant, Bubbles Restaurant.

Executive Assistant Manager – Food & Beverage, Mr. Jamnong Bootsong says that the experienced chefs make their

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

own original recipes. The culinary offering represents the fusion between authentic Thai and flavours imported from the Mediterranean coasts, Asian fresh markets, Middle East and Indian spice souks.

“We allow guests to explore the various flavours, not just from Thailand. We want to give them something they don’t expect,” said Mr. Jamnong.

Bubbles offers an extensive menu, from Parisian to international breakfast selections, an enticing array of Italian salads and pastas, homemade Chinese noodles alongside signatures from India, Korea and Japan, and Thai dishes along with many Phuket favourites.

My first dining experience, which was one not to be forgotten, was a relaxing dinner just as the sun started to set into the Andaman. We were served an enticing selection of appetisers which included a selection of hot and cold tapas, which were followed by a traditional and flavoursome Thai main course, then a delicious dessert to finish with. And one certainly couldn’t forget the giant cocktails served in fish-bowl style glasses?

Various flavours, and all reminiscent to how cocktails were once drunk during my youth. They were truly amazing!

After a heavenly and rejuvenating night’s sleep, we headed down to the restaurant to take advantage of the generous and eclectic breakfast buffet. From pastries, to omelettes, to Mediterranean mezzes, or even the Indian vegetable curries, we were spoiled for choice.

And what a better way to unwind and digest than with a complimentary one-hour spa treatment. Ryn Spa treatments are tailored to each individual’s personal profile as it relates to the four elements in ancient wisdom, namely, Earth, Water, Wind and Fire. I myself indulged in the Earth oil massage.

Ms. Sumontha says that guests can feel totally relaxed during their stay. And boy, was she right.

With regards to rest of the hotel, there’s also Chou Chou, a deli shop perfect for bakery on-the-go, the Craft Beer Lounge offering 100 different labels from as many as 30 different countries, and the Bounce pool bar, a gorgeous Sala set out in the open.

The location is a major key as well. Guests can still go to the beach and explore the nearby bazaars.

“The hotel is also great for first-time travellers, it’s a great area for them to discover. They can connect to other areas on the island very easily from the hotel.”

Ms. Sumontha reiterates how the villas and the resort itself are “perfect for honeymooners, anniversaries, special occasions, or simply a weekend getaway for friends and families looking to spend some quality time together.”

“It’s a good destination for anyone wanting to get away. An hour flight from Bangkok, or even for Phuket people. We want people not just in Thailand, but all across Asia to experience our wonderful hotel.”

Having experienced a stay in such a stunning and luxurious gem tucked right in the middle of Patong, Ms. Sumontha’s, along with the rest of the team, hopes of becoming Patong’s number 1 hotel and “the talk of the town” are certainly not far off. From the exceptional service, to the luxurious rooms, to the attention to detail, my stay at this hotel was all I could have asked for and more. I certainly felt like royalty, if only for one night.

For more information on the hotel visit http://grandmercurephuketpatong.com/ or facebook.com/grandmercurephuketpatong thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Mile high in the Orient goes wild Anton Maxtop news@novostephuketa.com

A

s I mentioned in my last article, Hong Kong’s streets are best explored at night. For daytime adventures Hong Kong has a wide variety of options on offer, including several family ones such as the Ocean Park.

Divided into two main areas (The Summit and The Waterfront) it offers a number of activities suitable for all ages.

Animal lovers will definitely adore the Aqua City and Marine World sections, along with specialised Polar and Rainforest sections (the aquarium is just breathtaking, and so is the penguin corner).

But what tops it all off is the Amazing Asian Animals and Adventures in Australia attractions featuring koalas, wallabies and… a giant panda!

One really must be absolutely stonehearted to resist the charm

@thephuketnews

TRAVEL 19

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

of a giant panda.

Those willing to test their bravery can take a ride or two in the Adventure Land and on the Thrill Mountain. These two entertainment zones boast various roller coasters, some of them will literally make you scream and shout with both fright and excitement.

My personal favourite is The Hair Raiser, which loops and plunges you so high, giving you unforgettable views of the island. Trust me, you won’t forget the view.

The two major parts of the

park are connected with a cable car and an underground express line, each of them worth trying. I loved the former more, but I assume kids would be equally happy with both. The express is designed to resemble Captain Nemo’s submarine and simulates a journey through the ocean’s depths.

Ocean Park’s all-inclusive one day is priced at HKD 345 for an adult visitor (HKD 173 for kids) and it’s really worth planning a full day visit. If anything, it reassures that I didn’t miss out by not going to Disneyland.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Getting there HK Express is Hong Kong’s first and only low-fare airline, offering return tickets from Phuket to Hong Kong and back for as low as B5,000, and even less if you book in advance or catch a promo offer.

The flight takes around 2.5 hours. I took the UO 764 flight, departing at 2:55am and arriving to Hong Kong at around 7:30am. A nice option for those willing to start exploring the city straight after arrival (just remember to sleep in advance). Tickets can be booked online at hkexpress.com.

HK Express can boast an impressive 85 per cent ontime performance and the highest safety rating from airlineratings.com. The company operates a fleet of 10 modern Dim Sum-Themed Airbus A320 aircrafts each named after a specific dim sum dish.

Accommodation For your stay in Hong Kong you can choose between Kowloon peninsular and Hong Kong Island proper (the latter being a more ‘historical’ place though with challenging hillside landscapes).

The choice is up to you, just bare in mind that nearly all

affordable local hotels are limited in space and a small room means something really small. According to booking. com, prices for hotels and guest houses start from B500 per night. I stayed at the 4 -star BP International Hotel priced at around B2500 per night with quite humble rooms but a good central location, and an absolutely breathtaking view of the city and Kowloon park.

Transportation Hong Kong boasts well thought about public transportation systems including MTR, buses, trams and, of course, taxis. You can get nearly everywhere by MTR, so this option is highly recommended.

For MTR fares and additional information please visit mtr. com.hk. For taxi rates please visit taxihongkong.com.

Exploring the city on foot is also an attractive option.

The weather in Hong Kong is not as hot as in Phuket or Bangkok.

20 ENTERTAINMENT

Becoming Legends

L

ocal young rockers Legends of Siam have been quietly busy in recent months. The band released their debut album ’This Means War’ at the end of February with a raucous show at the Hard Rock Café in Phuket.

In May they were featured in an article in the famed American publication The Wall Street Journal, and now they are making inroads with radio in target local and international markets.

“Radio is very important for any band to grow their fan base” says guitarist Blaze KC, “and we are very fortunate to have the support of our local radio station Live89.5.” he continued. The band’s drummer Rannze Davies adds “It’s

not just in Phuket, we are also getting played in other parts of Thailand and in South Africa too.” South Africa is a huge rock market and the band’s latest single ‘Writing My Name’ has been taken up by Campus and Regional stations across the country. Similarly stations in Pattaya, Phuket and Bangkok are starting to play Legends of Siam.

“There are other markets that we are looking at as well, but we don’t want to bite off more than we can chew,” Blaze concluded. So how did the band get to this point? “We practice a lot” says vocalist Gemma Kealy.

“We also play a lot, and we all take lessons,” added bassist Destiny Star, a point confirmed by the rest of the band.

“Gemma takes private vocal and

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

guitar lessons, Destiny takes bass lessons, and I take lessons with three different guitar teachers,” Blaze said.

“Rannze takes some lessons in other instruments like piano and guitar, and she also teaches drums and vocals,” he continued.

“It’s a lot of hard work,” Rannze adds, “but taking lessons and practicing a lot allows us to play songs that we would not normally be able to play, like Iron Maiden’s ‘The Trooper’ or Led Zeppelin’s ‘Rock and Roll’. We continually push ourselves to improve because we want to be doing this for the rest of our lives.”

Watching the band perform live is

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

testament to the hours that they put in learning and practicing their craft. The band has an open invitation to play at one of Phuket’s premier live venues, the Hard Rock Café in Patong. On this stage they have supported such mega acts as Hugo and Paradox.

To keep up with their progress, follow Legends of Siam on facebook, or via their website www.legendofsiam.net

From Olympian champ to glamour tramp, vanity blood and babies AMIGOVIA Whitney Mitha whitneymitha@yahoo.com

K

eeping up with Caitlyn!

The famous reality show family is known for being attention seekers one hundred per cent. However anyone who has seen the show knows that step father, Bruce Jenner, former Olympian athlete, has always seemed

out of place.

He was the voice of reason and usually kept quiet and out of the spotlight.

Well has that changed! It is official, the long running rumour that he is transgender and changing to a woman is true and has happened. He is now to be known as Caitlyn and graces the cover of Vanity Fair magazine looking quite stunning. He (she) will have his own television show documenting his (her) life as he (she) goes through the changes on E! after The Kardashians of course.

I think it is great that Caitlyn has

had the courage to come out and the support of the media has been super positive. If anything seeing Caitlyn gives me inspiration to step up my game. If Bruce can look that good surely we all can bring it up a notch!

Selfie Scare

Beloved Latin superstar Enrique Iglesias was injured during a concert in Tijuana, Mexico when he grabbed a camera drone in attempt to take a selfie.

Somehow he sliced his fingers and was bandaged up mid concert. He is predict-

ed to make a full recovery.

South West

Not to be outshined Kim Kardashian does have her news as well. She and husband Kanye West are expecting their second child. Their first child, a girl named North West is two years old.

Whitney is an American living in Phuket, writing about the latest gossip and trends in pop culture. Read more from Whitney onWordpress and Facebook (search: “amigovia”) and follow her on Instagram @Amigovia.

Outta the Box! by Joel Adams

L

et me introduce Outta the Box!, the improvisation wing of Theatrix Group.

Our fledgling just-out-of-the-nest (or box!) troupe will perform its first-ever show, “Outta The Box Presents”, for a living, breathing audience at the Book Café on June 20, with the curtain going up at 7:30pm. Don’t miss it! Fun and laughs for everyone, for a mere B150.

Where did Outta the Box come from, you may ask? Well, it all started when an angel appeared to a virgin in Naz… Oh, wait, no, that’s another story. Let me see. Oh, yes… it all started when I, Joel Adams, came to Phuket. It was written in the stars that I would have the privilege of cooperating with Oasis Ed. Phuket and Kez Jennings to form a rag-tag crazy troupe of improvisational actors. The only requirement has been to show up and be crazy enough to believe that theatre can be made out of thin air with no preparation… and then to get ‘in the moment’ and try it.

We as artists believe that the furtherance of the theatrical arts promotes culture and stability in our ever-changing world, blah, blah, blah… To tell you the truth, we’re addicted and can’t stop ‘cause it’s so much fun. Improv is fun to perform and a blast to watch.

Now we’re ready (or sincerely hope we are) to show you our chops. We love this crazy, fun form of acting with its unpredictability, zany games and outlandish situations, and we want to invite you to ‘let us entertain you’ in the words of that other great improviser, Gypsy Rose Lee… or was she something else? What can you expect when you come to an improvised, interactive evening? We’re not sure and that’s half the fun of it. But we do know you’ll get a chance to write lines, suggest scenarios, pause-fast forward-slow down and otherwise control scenes… and more.

Nothing is planned or memorized. Everything happens on the spot, so what you see has literally never been seen before nor will be again!

Don’t miss it! Come out to see our show on June 20 and then join us, if you will, at one of our two locations weekly.

Mondays – from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at Skipper’s Bar in the Royal Phuket Marina Thursdays – also from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at the Book Café in Rawai For further information contact Kez via kez@ oasisedphuket.com or Joel at theatrixphuket@ gmail.com or visit www.oasisedphuket.com/ outtatheboxpresents thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ENTERTAINMENT 21

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

One stage, three shows KIS Performing Arts Dept to wrap up the academic year on a high note Steven Layne editor@classactmedia.co.th

M

ark your calendars – on Saturday, June 20, students and staff at Kajonkiet International School will be pulling out all stops to bring you their biggest and best “End of Year Show” to date, featuring three exciting productions from each of their Key Stage groups. This year, the school has reserved the stage at the spacious Simon Star Theatre in Phuket Town to bring you three fantastic shows you don’t want to miss – The Pied Piper of Phuket, Bugsy Malone and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, with show times at 8:30am, 9:30am and 11:15am, respectively.

The suggested donation of B400 per ticket includes a buffet lunch after the three shows. While part of the proceeds will cover production overheads – equipment rentals and the theatre itself, for example – additional proceeds from the show will be donated to the sole school on the remote island of Koh Lone, just off Phuket, which is in need of some TLC and new materials. That said, those with a kind heart are more than welcome to donate more than the suggested amount – after all, it’s for a good cause. And now a sneak peak at each of the upcoming productions.

The Pied Piper of Phuket (Key Stage 1) Set on the tropical island of Phuket in the village of Rawai, The Pied Piper of Phuket takes place a few months ago; the people of Phuket are not happy because there are so many rats. So they go to the mayor for help. Then a woman shows up who says she can help their problem for the price of 10,000 gold coins, to which the mayor agrees. But can the pied piper do it, and will the mayor keep his promise?

Director of the production, Key Stage 1 teacher, Ms Peta has worked diligently over the past five weeks preparing, coordinating and rehearsing with the dozens of young students who range in age from two to seven years old.

With about 10 main roles, and dozens of supporting roles, including 20-30 rats played by nursery students, and six dancers – one can imagine the level of patience and perseverance required in bringing everything together.

“It has been great practice for the students to listen to and follow direction, remembering their lines and cues – when to come on and off and so forth,”

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said Ms Peta, who chose the production and took a day to rewrite and adapt the script.

Based on the famous poem Pied Piper of Hamelin by Robert Browning, the production is popular among Year 3 and 4 theatre classes in the west, she notes.

But Ms Peta has creatively re-adapted the script and score to be quirky and humorous for local and modern audiences.

For example they have adapted a few popular kids songs by changing the hook lines to match the story (Look forward to numbers such as What does the Rat say? ’and Who let the rats out?).

Another interesting deviation from the original is the part of the main character – the pied piper – which though is traditionally played by a boy, will instead be represented by an aspiring young actress, Jasmine, who earned the lead part after an impressive audition showcasing impressive dancing, singing and acting talent.

The curtain opens at 8.30am.

Bugsy Malone (Key Stage 2)

Leading the production team for Bugsy Malone has been KIS’ Drama and Music Teacher Mr Davison, along with Year 5 Ms Pegram, who have coordinated all of the acting, singing and dancing.

It’s shaping up to be quite the production, with 100-120 students on stage at any one time.

“All Key Stage 2 students, from 7-12 years old, are going to be involved, whether acting, dancing, or part of the chorus section. For students who didn’t sign up for a part, they’ll contribute as part of the chorus section,” noted Mr Davison.

Based on the 1976 film, Bugsy Malone is the name of the play and main protagonist of the story who unites two rival gangs – Fat Sam’s gang and Dandy Dan’s gang. Set in New York in the 1920s, the story promotes and emphasises the themes of

unity and friendship.

“There are a lot of good characters in the story that match our students, and since we always try to promote unity and friendship at the school, Bugsy Malone was ideal,” explained Ms Pegram, who has held the original 1976 film dear to her heart since she was a young child.

“In the original, which also starred children, they used splurge guns filled with custard, so the rivalry was expressed more jokingly, not violently …

In our rendition, we’re going with super-soakers attached with silly string,” added Mr Davison.

The team has been working from the script from the Junior Broadway version of the playwright, but have adapted it to be more “manageable and digestible” for the modern, Phuket audience.

“Some of the jokes and references were a little dated, so we’ve taken out, and added bits to suit our audience and the current time, but at the same time didn’t want to stray too far from the original,” Mr Davison said.

Audiences can expect not only some lively and engaging acting, but lots of singing and carefully choreographed dancing as well, with a total of nine musical numbers to look forward to, five of which will involve the entire set – actors, actresses and chorus members.

And there will be a few surprises, but you’ve got to come to find out.

The curtain opens at 9:30am.

Midsummer Night’s Dream (Key Stage 3)

Based on the popular playwright by Shakesphere, Mid-

summer Night’s Dream is a romantic comedy in its classic sense. Set in ancient Greece, the story revolves around two Athenien couples in love against their fathers’ wishes. When the lovers run off into the forest to be together, they meet fairies who create a lot of mischief, featuring heartache and love triangles that must be sorted out before the final curtain draws.

“The kids have done really great considering how complex the script and language can be. We’ve changed some of the language, and added a few of our own elements,” said Director Ms Crowley, Key Stage 3 English teacher.

“We wanted to do a Shakesphere play and I chose this one because it’s a fun comedy and there are lots of characters and thus more participation needed. We were reading Romeo and Juliet in class but I thought this one would be a lot more fun and comfortable for the kids to act out on stage.”

Ms Crowley noted that though many of the students had never been involved in a theatrical production prior to this, she is pleased how everything has been coming together, with lots of support and encouragement from other teachers.

All in there are about 20 speaking roles, and several students will be in charge of props. Plus, there’s a student director, and dance choreographer, and some students will be supporting the production by playing the parts of animals and trees, for example. All in, most of the key stage, or about 45 students will contribute to the production in one way or another.

And while there won’t be any special singing sets (you’ll get your fill in Bugsy Malone), there will be a special, student-choreographed Thai fairy dance, as well as a ballet performance and not to mention, an engaging sword fight the students have carefully been practising.

The curtain opens from 11:15am.

22 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

Third from left: Roman Floesser, Race Director, Go Adventure Asia

RUNNERS TAKE PART IN THE 10TH EXCITING LAGUNA RACE The 10th Laguna Phuket International Marathon™ took place on Sunday, June 7. Over 7,000 runners and walkers took part in the race with start and finish at Laguna Phuket.

The course was very scenic and runners got to indulge in the lush vegetation Phuket has to offer. See Sports pages to find out about the top finishers.

Irina Saratovskaya thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ISLAND SCENE 23

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

BIRTHDAY FUN @ THE HOTSPRING RESORT Mrs Tueanjai Holton (third from left) General Manager of The Hotspring Beach Resort and Spa, welcomed Mr Ivanov for his birthday party at Patcharin Restaurant on June 6.

PHUKET UNITED IN FUTSAL LEAGUE Fans of the island’s pro five-a-side outfit, Phuket United were enthralled last Sunday (June 7) when the Andaman Pearl hosted Nonthaburi’s Killer Bees. Find out the result by turning to page 37.

Dr Jason Emer, aesthetic specialist from Beverly Hills, USA, with his friend, and Mr Maor Sinai, (VP Business Management Asia Pacific, VenusConcept)

A SIGNATURE BEAUTY EVENT Venus Legacy and APEX Profound Beauty, celebrated the pre-opening of Phuket’s newest and most advanced health, beauty and medical centre.

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24 EVENTS

FRI

12 JUNE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM sunset while sipping on a Ginger & Lemongrass Martini and enjoying the unique sophisticated city lifestyle ambiance of Phuket.

Every Friday ‘All you can Eat’ Tapas, with free flow of selected beverages at B1,390 net from 7 – 10pm. Get 30 per cent discount on selected beverages from 5.30-6.30pm everyday. Located at Vanilla Sky Bar, Cape Sienna Hotel, Kamala 076-337300.

SUN

14 JUNE

Sunday Roast at Gallery Cafe

by Pinky Traditional Muay Thai Training at Sumalee Boxing Gym Join Team Sumalee in Thalang for group Muay Thai training twice a day, six days a week. Whether you want to start your journey to fitness, prepare for a fight, or simply want to try something new, our team can help you achieve your goals. The camp features a fully equipped outdoor Muay Thai gym, air-conditioned fitness studio, 14 luxurious rooms, swimming pool, Ringside restaurant, all on-site. info@sumaleeboxinggym.com, 088-017-3020.

Mussels night @ Shaker 1.2 Kg mussels served with French Fries Your choice, Your style: Nature, mariniere, provencale, garlic & cream or Thai style Reservation recommended 295 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

Pool Competition at Expat Sports Bar

SAT

13 JUNE

Contact Jay Address : The Boardwalk Royal Phuket Marina, 076 360 811.

MON

15 JUNE

Every Sunday. Follow and #pinkygallerycafe on instagram to get 10% off. More info contact Pinky at 089 103 700.

Circus Reprizzo One Man Show at Phuket International Academy Thai Sunday Brunch at DoubleTree Phuket Every Sunday enjoy a wide selection of Thai delicacies during the Thai Sunday Brunch at DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Phuket - Surin Beach. Various action stations, extensive salad bar, tropical fresh fruits, plenty of desserts and unlimited soft drinks, coffee and tea for only THB 350 net per person. Children aged 7-12 at THB 175 net. This includes free access to our swimming facilities! 076 303 300.

ILLUZION Show & Discotheque presents SPECIAL GUEST: JENIL (Rewind Recordings) FREE ENTRY from 10PM One of the fastest growing artist in the scene today. JENIL is quickly climbing the top. Don’t miss it!!

BOOK your VIP table at +66 99 318 0083 or email us at ticket@illuzionphuket.com ILLUZION Show & Discotheque // 31 Bangla, Ban Patong, Phuket.

Indian Curry Night on Fridays

Happy Fridays on the Boardwalk at RPM

pork or leg of lamb served with roast and boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Only B320 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See otools-phuket.com

The competition at 9pm Expat Sports Bar at the Expat Hotel Soi Taipan Patong.

See map at www.expathotel.com

For THB 499/- nett.

All you can eat

Come to Navrang Mahal in Karon Sea Sands Resort & Spa for an authentic Indian Feast every Friday in Karon Beach.

Try out our delicious naans, mutton vindaloo, chicken tandoori, dal makhini, butter chicken, samosas, lassis and many more mouth-watering dishes. For only B499 and special reduced prices on drinks, 076-286464 Ext 4.

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet Beef, Pork & Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, Fried mushrooms, Grilled Tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding – Roasted Potatoes, Mashed Potatoes – Gravey, Mushroom sauce, Mint Sauce. Reservation Recommended 350 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

Monday 15 Jun 2015. 300THB per ticket.

Join us fofr Drinks & Canapes at THanyapura’s new Booster Bar, from 17.00 (additional free applies) contact: natalie.weeks@pia. ac.th, 076 336 076.

All you can eat BBQ night 6PM – 11PM: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns & Squids, salad buffet, Choice of potatoes & Sauces, Bread, Buns & garlic bread Reservation recommended 350 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

TUE

16 JUNE

All you can eat BBQ Ribs night

Suk Singpatong + Sitnumnoi Every Saturday night, Num Noi Singpatong, the head trainer and owner of Singpatong + Sitnumnoi gym in Patong Beach, hosts an elite fight series “Suk Singpatong + Sitnumnoi Saturday fight night” at Patong Boxing Stadium (Sai Nam Yen Road), where top international and Thai fighters compete. Visit pattongboxingstadium.com for more info.

Contact 087 628 2719. Proudly supported

by Class Act Media. Remark: Free transportation in Patong, Karon, Kata areas when requested in advance. Proudly supported by Class Act Media.

CASUAL BBQ SUNDAY BRUNCH AT THE POOL BAR AT HYATT REGENCY Enjoy our sumptuous brunch featuring a lavish spread of international delicacies with a variety of live stations, roasts, a casual seafood BBQ, freshly shucked Fin de Claire oysters, a pasta station, wood-fired pizzas and a children’s food corner plus our free flow selected beverage stations. With pool access and a Camp Hyatt kids club, starting at 1,500++ THB per person. For more details and reservations, call 076 231 516 fnb. phuhp@hyatt.com

6PM – 11PM: All you can eat BBQ Ribs served with salad buffet, potato Salad & Choice of Sauces Reservation recommended 295 baht P.P., shakersphuket@ gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

THU

18 JUNE

Knockout Singles Charity Tourament

FRIDAYS WINE & TAPAS

BBQ at Expat Hotel

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach

Imagine yourself sitting 50 metres above sea level and gazing out over an amazing

Time 8pm, Expat Sports Bar, Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www.expatsportsbar.com

Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice of either roast beef, chicken, loin of

Southern Phuket Pool League presents The League’s inaugural Knockout tournament. Baht 220 per person entry fee, closing date for entry Jun 17, for details contact Flob @ Walkablut, Jason @ No Name or Brendan from the league. In fond memory of our friend Geoffrey Frederick Goacher, all proceeds from this event will go to Geoffs family.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRI

19 JUNE

2 hours of LIVE HIP HOP Performance!

SPECIAL GUEST: ● MD MOCHIO (Wyclef Asia Records) ● DJ WEEZII FREE ENTRY from 10PM Mark Daddy Mochio popularly known as (Mark Daddy, D.Lil, MDD’ MD, Mark Diddy) was born in Buea, the South West provincial capital of Cameroon. Mark Daddy started his musical career in the economic capital of Cameroon (Douala) with the group (DREAM 2 REAL) through which he became known as one of the best vocalist, songwriter and composer in that area.

BOOK your VIP table at +66 99 318 0083 or ticket@illuzionphuket.com. ILLUZION Show & Discotheque, 31 Bangla, Ban Patong, Phuket.

SAT

20 JUNE

End of the Year, Kajonkiet International School A MAGICAL MORNING PERFORMANCE

BY THE CHILDREN OF KIS (Kajonkiet International School, Phuket) Come and join us for our End of Year Production for a great morning of smiles and entertainment.at Simon Star Cabaret, Samkong, Phuket Town, The Pied Piper of Phuket Bugsy Malone A Mid Summer Night’s Dream For reservations or more information please call 0896527599 or visit our campus in Kathu.All Proceeds will go to Ban Kho Lone School.

Proudly support by Live 89.5 radio.

Outta the Box Outta the Box is ready to strut their stuff!,Treat yourself to an evening of belly laughs and silliness! The Outta the Box team will give you a performance such as Phuket has never seen before. Or ever will again. Because it’s Improv! Improvisational Acting is made up on the spot, driven by themes, scenarios and quick thinking by the performers. With no scripts, no prescribed lines, no director, it becomes “on-the-spot” spontaneity and mayhem, where anything might (and often does) happen. An exciting combination of acting, comedy, serious mo-

@thephuketnews

EVENTS 25

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015 ments and heartfelt scenes, Improv is also a minefield of gags, blunders and “rescueme” moments. Outta The Box can be enjoyed by people of all ages, nationalities and languages.Curtains open at 7:30pm, at the Book Café Rawai. Tickets are just 150 baht per person, which includes some light snacks. Drinks will also be on sale. This community event is brought to you by Oasis ed. Phuket, Theatrix, hosted by the Book Café and graciously sponsored by Class Act Media and The Royal Phuket Marina. For further information contact Kez via kez@oasisedphuket.com / 0849462171 or Joel via theatrixphuket@gmail.com / 0936490066.

at THB 100 net per glass. About the Speaker: For more than half of the King’s reign to date, Graham has never been too far from the centre of political power. Venue: Amari Phuket, Patong Beach. www.bccthai.com

SUN

28 JUNE

PGFC Last Sunday of the Month Fishing Trip

Krabi Music Festival Enjoy Krabi Music Festival on 20th June 2015 at Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort. Highlight will be a mini concert by J Jetrin and hot DJs spinning the latest tracks, and fun entertainment. Make the most of your party weekend with special rates at just THB 3,990 for 1-night stay and THB 6,980 for 2-night stay including breakfast, party entrance fee and a complimentary drink for 2 persons. For reservation place contact 075 627 800 or h6184-re@sofitel.com

SUN

21 JUNE

Laguna Phuket Junior Golf 2015 Laguna Phuket Golf Club is proud to present the first Laguna Phuket Junior Golf Tournament – partnered with BISP.The event will include 18 holes golf competition around the magnificent new Laguna Phuket golf course, goodie bags, refreshments, prize giving presentation following golf, with a fantastic lunch buffet and pool party at Angsana Phuket! Entry is just THB 1,950. Open to juniors aged 6 – 18. For more information please contact 076 270 991, Proudly supported by Live 89.5.

THU

Let’s go fishing on Queen Marlin at Racha Yai/Noi island. Great value half price only 3,000 Baht per angler, Max 5 anglers per trip. Please contact Captain “Zow” Wilson via zow52@yahoo.co.uk or Mobile Phone 0813677765.

THU

9 JULY

Multihull Solutions Regatta Phuket 2015 2015 is the second year that Multihull Solutions is naming rights and major sponsor of the Multihull Solutions Regatta in Phuket. This regatta is an Ao Chalong Yacht Club (ACYC) event. You too can join this “multihull only” event for three days of exciting racing and serious fun on and off the water. The fees to enter are modest, the scenery spectacular and the camaraderie is like no other! For registration and more information visit: http://www.multihullsolutions.com.au/events/multihull-solutions-regatta-phuket-2015/ This event is proudly sponsored by Class Act Media.

EVERYDAY

25 JUNE

Guest speaker: Graham Catterwell Cost: THB 850 including 3-course dinner & soft drinks. Other drinks on guest’s own account

KATA HOT YOGA Now 3 classes daily. 9 A.M then 5.15 PM and 7.15 P.M classes are 90 minutes. Kata Yoga the most popular yoga in Phuket for Men and Women. It is the best work out ever, getting strong and flexible, full of vitality, It will make you very happy, and it shows, you will walk with a big smile on your face, feeling good. Open everyday, right at the beach, Kata Beach, You got to try, warning: very addictive, once you start you keep coming, you never want to stop, 217 khoktanod road kata beach phuket 83100, 076 605 950.

Adventure Golf Summer Package 299/499 Baht Topic: Thai Cooking Class at Bubbles Restaurant

BCCT Phuket Business Dinner Update on the Thai Political Situation

KATA HOT YOGA FOR EVERYBODY Open every day, 3 classes daily: 9 a.m in the morning, then 5.15 p.m afternoon and 7.15 p.m evening. Men and women all ages, Just come, you will love it. work out and stretch.

Tone your muscles, lose fat, get in shape, and feel good.See you in yoga class soon, Address : 217 khoktanod road kata beach phuket 83100, 076 605 950.

Description: Refresh your culinary skills and discover an authentic Thai local experience by learning how to cook the local dishes, exploring a unique Fisherman’s market and enjoying lots of delightful recipes and cooking tips along the way. There are 2 packages to choose from, haft-day & full-day, start from THB 2,000/person. Please call or 076 231 999 or h8109@accor.com

Day pass, all you can play! One main dish from our menu/kid menu. A drink from our selected drink menu. Cold towel after the game/s. Child 299 Baht (up to 11 years old) Adult 499 Baht. Book now and save 40-50% (by phone or directly on our website). Happy time 17:00-19:00; Brews 50 baht, a glass from our selected beverages and pour-updrinks 99 baht. Our 18-hole course is fully floodlit, for twilight and night golfing. Welcome! Bangtao Beach Road, Soi 2 (Next to Arinara Beach Resort), 076 314 345, 080 147 2468, phuketadventureminigolf.com, mrk@phuketadventureminigolf.com

26 TIME OUT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York Across 1. By which name is the singer Thomas Woodward better known?

2. In the 1820s, who designed the locomotive called the Rocket?

3. Which car manufacturer produced the Kitten?

4. Which is bigger, a dolphin or a porpoise?

5. What is a waterspout carved as a grotesque figure called?

Answers below, centre.

SUDOKU

1. Bent 5. Body shop fig.

8. Red shade 14. Portion receiver 16. Ancient meeting places 17. Takes an extended stroll 19. Battle of Britain grp.

20. Discouraging words 21. Calculus calculations 25. Vermin 27. Greek earth goddess: Var. 31. Fails to act 34. Kind of mark 35. Big time 36. Discompose 37. Quarrels 40. Insect stage 44. Holiday quaff 45. Hospital directive 49. Does the best one can 53. Old Icelandic literary work 54. Boot 55. Certain berth 56. It’s inspired 57. The other woman 59. Turns upside down 68. Persian Gulf

country 69. With pleasure 70. Operatives 71. Annex 72. Spicy Mexican sauce Down

1. Catch 2. U.N. Workers’ grp.

3. Bass, for one 4. Brillo rival 5. Mount SW of Messina 6. Certain bottom 7. Abbr. To the left of a number 8. River craft 9. Roe 10. Column’s counterpart 11. 401(k) alternative 12. Mineo of “Exodus” 13. Cry in cartoons 15. Body 18. Erstwhile 21. Venom source 22. ___ Rancho (suburb of Albuquerque) 23. List ender 24. Pump 26. Game divisions

27. Prattle 28. Bibliophilic suffix 29. Fingers 30. Hair color 32. Bottom line 33. Eats 37. Boozehound 38. Low slope 39. Freudian topic 40. Fury 41. Kind of pie 42. Conjunction 43. Fed. Construction overseer 45. Dadaist 46. Dope 47. Air hero 48. A pop 50. Boosts 51. 100 cents 52. Risked, in days of old 56. Passage 58. See 23-Down 59. Cousin of reggae 60. Harbor craft 61. Shock’s partner 62. Indian bread 63. Franco-Spanish botanist 64. Alter, in a way 65. Shogun’s capital 66. Pledge of Allegiance ender 67. Salon supply

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1. Tom Jones; 2. George Stephenson; 3. Reliant; 4. Dolphin; 5. Gargoyle.

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

This week in history ■■ June 12, 1942

Anne Frank receives a diary for her

112,994

13th birthday.

■■ June 13, 1994

A jury in Anchorage, Alaska, blames

Number of surgeries on average by which one is performed on the wrong person or body part.

recklessness

by E x xo n and Captain Joseph Ha-

60

zelwood for the Exxon Valdez disaster, allowing victims of the oil spill to seek US$15

Percentage of people who have lied at least once to a current sexual partner about previous partners and STIs.

billion in damages.

■■ June 14, 1158

Munich is founded by Henry the

1981

Lion on the banks of the river Isar.

■■ June 15, 1667

The first human blood transfusion is administered by Dr Jean-Baptiste

The last year the U.S. went without any deaths in a school shooting.

Denys.

■■ June 16, 1911

IBM founded as the Computing-Tab-

1

ulatingRecording Company

ostrich egg has 200g of protein, the same amount as four t-bone steaks.

in Endicott, New York.

■■ June 17, 1987

5.8 trillion

With the death of the last individual of the species, the Dusky Seaside Sparrow becomes extinct.

■■ June 18, 1908

Number of cigarettes lit up by smokers in 2014 alone.

An aerial view of tourists enjoying a day out at one of Phuket’s beaches. Photo by Tanyaluk Sakoot

Japanese immigration to Brazil begins when 781 people arrive in

Source: Uberfacts

Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket?

Email it to editor1@classactmedia.co.th

Santos aboard the ship Kasato-Maru.

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

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FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

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Junior Web Programmer (Thai) Sedna system is the worldwide leader in management & reservation software dedicated in the yachting industry. Our main office is based in France and we exist since 12 years. Check more info here: www.sednasystem.com We are opening an office in Phuket and we are looking to hire 2 to 4 web developers to start with. Sedna system has over 300 companies under contract license worldwide and we need to enforce our development capacities.

Job keys are the following; Profiles required: Junior & confirmed Web Developers Salary: 22.000 THB to 30.000 THB + Performance bonus, depending on profiles 5 days’ work week Start-up ambiance, pool table, Table Football, swimming pool during the breaks Flexible working hours. Office located at Chalong.

Career level: Not important, we match someone efficient, junior/beginners +++ can be accepted. Our leitmotiv is: In the best we trust and never do tomorrow what you can do today!

Requirements Classic ASP (or php)/Vbscript/XML/JSON/Javascript/Jquery/html5/ASP MVC Database: SQL Server Server: IIS / Windows Responsibilities: To be in contact with an international clientele Interested candidates are invited to send their résumé along with their salary requirements to Eric Ahuir @ eric@sednasystem.com, Address : 32/16 Soi Phon Chalong Moo 9, Chaofa Rd East T.Chalong, A.Muang, Phuket, Phuket 83130. Tel: 098 671 84 66.

Worldwide Dive and Sail We offer diving safaris across South East Asia and the Pacific and more destinations to come.

To support our fast and dynamic expansion, we are recruiting for the following positions: - Reservations consultant - Local Operations Manager for Siren Fleet Please refer to our website for further details about the positions. Interested candidates can send a résumé and a cover letter at:employment@wwdas. com, Contact HR.

Class Act Media is southern Thailand's most comprehensive media company, incorporating Phuket’s leading English newspaper ‘The Phuket News’, Russian language newspaper 'Novosti Phuketa', Phuket’s leading English radio station ‘Live 89.5’, Phuket English TV 'Phuket News TV' and a host of publications & services including ‘The Phuket Colouring book’ & ‘Phuket Ticket Master’.

Class Act Media is southern Thailand's most comprehensive media company, incorporating Phuket’s leading English newspaper ‘The Phuket News’, Russian language newspaper 'Novosti Phuketa', Phuket’s leading English radio station ‘Live 89.5’, Phuket English TV 'Phuket News TV' and a a host of publications & services including ‘The Phuket Colouring book’ & ‘Phuket Ticket Master’.

SALES REPRESENTATIVES

THAI REPORTER

Qualifications:

The Phuket News is looking for a Thai reporter to join

● Thai or Expat.

the news desk. This is an exciting position that offers

● Excellent communication and negotiation skills in Thai and English.

great career prospects for the right candidate

The successful candidate must:

● Highly motivated self-starter with a positive attitude.

● Be a Thai national

● Works well under pressure and has a will to succeed.

● Have a hunger for the news

We offer:

● Be a proficient photographer

● Competitive salary, bonuses and travel expenses.

● Have a willingness to learn

● A friendly work environment.

● Have good English writing skills

● Social security paid by the company.

● Be willing to work to deadlines

● Excellent career progress opportunities.

● Be a strong communicator

Interested candidates are invited to send application with full resume, in English, indicating qualifications, experience, recent photo and expected salary.

Interested candidates are invited to send application with full resume in English indicating qualifications, experience, and expected salary with recent photo to send your resume to: http://www.thephuketnews.com/job.php

Apply online at thephuketnews.com/job.php

Class Act Media Co., Ltd.

99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 Fax: 076 612 553

Class Act Media Co., Ltd. 99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 Fax: 076 612 553

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CLASSIFIEDS 35

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

Buy&Sell

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BOATS & YACHTS Marine Surveyors Andaman Maritime Services (AMS) conduct Pre-purchase, Insurance & Flag State Surveys. Buying a boat?

Boat owner? AMS has the services you need. Anthony , 81/18 Moo. 6, T.Kathu, A.Kathu, Phuket, Thailand 83120 , anthony@ams-sea.com, 081 893 9985, www. ams-sea.com

3.1 RIB Yacht tender dinghy 3.1m Stingray RIB with 9.9hp 4 stroke Suzuki outboard, storage cover, fuel tank etc. Great size yacht tender dinghy, as new 140,000b, Price : 140,000, sc@acronautic.com, 0898734044.

33/F Gulf Craft W/A Two suzuki 225 HP outboards - only 300 hours, custom made RIB-dinghy with small outboard, engine electronics and hydraulics, ray marine GPS/radar/depth sounder, many extras. 3,850,000. THB, 089 873 3713.

4.1M/40HP RIB, 09/2014 AS NEW! BOUGHT IN SEPT. 2014,14HRS ONLY! SUZUKI ENGINE+BOAT UNDER WARRANTY (SUZUKI PHUKET).

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Silver Princess Yacht PC530 A 53 ft Power Catamaran by Silver Princess Yachts.

Beautiful design, compact yacht with space & modern interior. Dimensions: 53 ft length, 21 ft beam, 4 ft draft, 50 passengers, 22,000,000 THB, Sonny, 669 8810 5024, www.silver-princess.com, sonny@silver-princess.com

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES German bakery & deli & snack Main road, 8 years clientele, take over + incl. training complete equipment, staff room, 3 or 5 years leasing contract. Yearly volume 4 mio. hansibakery@ gmail.com, Price: 3.5 million, Contact Mr. Stark, ansibakery@gmail.com

Bar For Sale O Top Markets Bar For Sale with full trading history showing increasing growth. Includes 4Mil Bht Thai company & 1 Work Permit. Great Location, good customer base, Price : 2,000,000, Person : charlie kenyon, charlie@paddymalones.com.au, 0841858719.

Restaurant & Bar For Rent A long established fully equipped Restaurant with Bar for Rent in an excellent location on Nanai Rd, Patong. The 105 M2 premises includes a fully equipped Kitchen, Restaurant and Bar with ample seating for 50 customers and excellent parking facilities., Peter Wesche, info@phuket-besthomes.com, 081 892 8526.

CATERING EQUIPMENT Tommy’s 2 Tuk Tuk’s for sale!

Excellent condition, well maintained. Standard 200,000 / food truck 250,000. Call 081 908 9724 or Tom.somsanuk@ gmail.com

PERSONAL SERVICES

CAR FOR RENT long term car rental have a good car rental, Toyota Vios, Mazda 2 or similar with true full professional insurance and 24/7 support Monthly rates B14000, Soi Sukee 40/19 moo 9 Chao fa east rd 39 chalong muang, ninascars@gmail.com, 089 648 0499.

CAR FOR SALE Car For Sale 1996 Toyota Corolla Sedan, Silver Gray. Automatic power steering, good aircon, goo tyres. 173,00kms. New Stereo, tinted windows. Bargain at 145,000 Baht. Kamala. Call Norm 083 182 2797.

e Ur g

nt

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CAR FOR SALE 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 40,000bht, Price : REDUCED to 330,000bht o.n.o, Andy +66846909144, andysmalster@gmail.com

Everest 4WD Quick Sale 10+yrs but mechanically drives and looks great. Manual.

Only B450,000 or offers above 400k considered for fast sale, B450,000 THB, peterh@asianwind.biz, 081- 8926710.

Nissan Teana Special 6 cyl

Polynesian Beauty from NZ

TOYOTA Fortune 2009

CELESTE - Outcalls only. Polynesian Beauty from NZ. Limited time Book now. http://polynesiansceleste.com (computer/laptop only), Contact Celeste, Email : polynesianceleste@gmail.com, 062 404 3273.

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

Nissan Teana Special 6 cyl November 2013 17000 Km New price 1.700.000.THB Price NOW 1,100,000.THB, Maurice, Email: Maurice.phuket@gmail.com, 099 302 7071, Thai: 090 163 2140.

2012 Toyota Fortuna 24,000km 2012 Pearl white Toyota Fortuna For Sale. 3.0 D4D VN Turbo Great condition- Baht Black leather interior. Tax / insurance till 2016, 900,000, Loch Palm, Kathu, Phuket, glawre123@gmail.com, 0898668825.

2012 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid Powerful 380HP, Full Option: Bose Sound, Pano roof, Navigator Map. etc. Immaculate condition, no accident, low mileage, one owner, Price : 4,500,000 THB, Phone 086-2806526.

Subaru Forester XT Turbo for sale For sale Subaru Forester 2.0 XT AWD CVT. 240 hp, auto light control and wiper control (rainy). crossover. Push start, xenon, rain sensor, ABS, air bags, electro seats, reversing camera, TV / CD / MP3 / USB / AUХ/ HDD/ DVD- VIDEO, ESP, separate climate control, cruise control, regulation steering, EBD, hatch, X-mode, acceleration to 100 km\h until 7 seconds, electric trunk, number plate for present)), kamila.sema@icloud.com, 0824133707.

TOYOTA Fortune 2006 7 seats, Black, Family car, Petrol 2,982cc Blue book, Service history Toyota Pearl, 160,000kms. AUTOMATIC transmission, golfguru2005@yahoo.co.uk, 076 615 827.

Nissan Teana 2.5Lt Model 2014 17,000km. New price 1.7Mln NOW 1,050,000Baht Eng: 081 788 8280 Thai: 090 163 2140, Contact Maurice, maurice. phuket@gmail.com , 090 163 2140.

Mitsubishi Pajero Sports Mitsubishi Pajero Sports 2012, A1 condition, 14,000 KM, Silver Colour. 950,000THB Eng: Ph. 0993614582 Thai: Ph. 080 383 3060.

MOTORBIKES FOR SALE Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS 2012 Showroom condition, new from Kawasaki Phuket May 2012, 2,000km, Hepco & Becker Engine Bars & Rear-rack, Kawasaki Handguards and Pyramid Hugger., 220,000 THB, Paul, 084 1 303 234, Plongmore@hotmail.com

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

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36 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com PETS FOR ADOPTION

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

BUY & SELL IN PHUKET

COMMUNITY

Neo and Cookie We are 15 weeks old. We are

very sweet with people and can get along easy with other dogs too! We hope you are the one who can give us a home. We will protect your house and love to cuddle. We already got some basic training. If you are interested in us you will get 2 dog training lessons for free.A dog is often happier when they have a friend around. These are best friends, so it would be best if they can stay together, Diana Koster, info@phuket-dog-resort.com, 083 599 6017.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE CAMERA baby car seats for sale BAKLONG Car Seat - Very good condition, suitable for newborn to 25KG. Prices are THB 4,000 per seat, buy both for only THB 7,000. Call 086 479 7471.

PROPERTY FOR RENT 2 Luxury Condo,Fully-Furnished

“The Base Downtown” 35 sqm. near Central Festival 16,000 THB/Month, “Patong Loft” 56 sqm. 5 Min. to Patong beach 25,000 THB/ Month , Price : 16,000- 25,000 THB, Mr. Aoody, aood16@hotmail.com, 099-5169959, 095-9799356 ( English & Thai)

House for rent - Near Pah-klok

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

PROPERTY FOR SALE Kata Beach House for Sale

Great Location, Spa,7 Bedroom/ 7 Bathroom, with Canode, 5 Min walk to the Beach, All rooms have Kitchens, Price: 10 MB, Khun Arreerat, nalumana2000@yahoo.com, 081-9704638, 086-5958512.

PROPERTY FOR SALE RESORT FOR SALE/LEASE

Resort for sale lease any offer consider! I want go sailing again!! bigasail@samart.co.th, +66 (0)86 9401860.

Office Space Laguna

Office Space Laguna - Plaza del Mar Fully Furnished offices 4 Office Suite plus boardroom Rent entire unit or individual office 080 045 4474.

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Sea-View Land & Luxury Villa project in Kamala including architect plans & building permit for 9 villas, 4000m2 sale only THB 30 MB, MIO, pupillopascal@gmail.com Call:088 768 0942.

House in Karon for Sale.

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

RESORT FOR SALE/LEASE

Resort for sale lease any offer consider! I want go sailing again!!, Address : 67/18 Soi Sermsuk Rawai Phuket, bigasail@samart.co.th, Contact +66 (0)86 9401860.

Ocean View Land Kamala

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

OTHER Best Deal

Rawai business for sale. Area approx 2Rai, can do restaurant or other business.Five mins from beach. Long term lease, yearly rent B200,000. 4 bedrooms house included. Reduce from B980,000 to B520,000. Contact Khun Asoke at 089 646 7176 / big_redchili@yahoo.com

Sea view land in Patong

The Last Piece of Sea View Land on Prime Location in Patong, just 500 m. from Patong beach, 1.3 KM. to Jungceylon Shopping Mall, Contact: Karuna, kpattarawalee@gmail.com,089-967-5373.

For Sale

Industrial over locker. Whitehouse Brand. 3 Thread.

Brand new never used. Full tool kit. Bargain at 12,000 Baht. Call Sandi 087 264 0778.

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FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

SPORT 37

Killer Bees get stung Phuket United hold on to lead to improve winning streak to three FTPL after Week 12 of 26

FUTSAL Steven Layne editor@classactmedia.co.th

1 2

P

huket United are now in 4th place of the kingdom’s elite five-a-side league, having upped their winning streak to three last Sunday (June 7).

Despite the overwhelming odds, Phuket United’s latest opponents, Nonthaburi’s “Killer Bees” put up a good fight in their league match plaid at the 4,000-seat Saphan Hin Sports Centre.

The match, both side’s 12th of the 26-fixture Futsal Thailand Premier League (FTPL) 2015 season, was attended by just over a thousand fans.

Going into the match Phuket were in 5th place of the FTPL table with 19 points, while Nonthaburi were dwindling second from bottom with only four points to their credit.

Indeed, on paper it looked like Phuket would have no trouble brushing aside their opponents, and when the Andaman Pearl scored in the opening minute of play with a beautiful strike by captain Anuwat Phanoppha (no 15), a seamless

@thephuketnews

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

Thanakorn Piyaprichayut (10) strikes. victory seemed certain.

But the Killer Bees from Nonthaburi retaliated with lightning speed, netting the equalizer only seconds later through Panathep Puipun (9).

The score remained locked at 1-1 for the next 9 minutes, until a play book combination on a Phuket counter attack ensured Thanakorn Penpakul’s (9) successful breach of Nonthaburi’s defensive line to put his side up 2-1, a scoreline that would remain unchanged into the half.

Phuket came out of the locker rooms firing all guns, and in the opening minute of the half, Thanakorn Piyaprichayut (10) put his side up one more, 3-1.

Top Phuket scorer, “Action” Jackson Santos, who had been resting on the sidelines for much of the first half, was given some time on the pitch, and it didn’t take long for him to work his Brazilian magic, scoring back to back goals to put the Pearl ahead 5-1.

14

Team

Pts

GD

Chonburi Siam Navy S Sakhon Phuket Utd N Ratchasima Bangkok Thai Port Si Saket Ayuthaya Khon Kaen S Prakarn Surat Thani CAT Nonthaburi

34 24 23 22 21 21 19 16 16 13 13 8 5 4

43 10 5 10 16 14 5 -2 -3 -9 -13 -15 -31 -30

Nonthaburi wasn’t to give up without a final fight, though, and in the closing three minutes, employed a strategic power play, which yielded two goals through Ekthana Thammakit (18) and Sutthiporn Klutcharoen (19).

Realizing their defensive vulnerability, Phuket regrouped their zone defense and managed a few long shots on an undefended Nonthaburi goal, but to no avail, with the final whistle diminishing any hopes for

an epic comeback by Nonthaburi.

The three points bumped Phuket up one spot into fourth place, while Nonthaburi fell to the pit of the table.

The Pearl now have an away match this Saturday (June 13) against Mor Pak Khon Kaen, and the following Saturday will play the same team, but in Phuket.

Class Act Media are proud media partners with Phuket United.

38 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

Phuket swim team triumph in Singapore SWIMMING

I

t was an absolutely incredible night for British International School, Phuket (BISP) in the pool on Sunday (June 7) at the 28th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, currently underway in Singapore.

I n o n e e ve n i ng , t h e school’s student-athletes – representing Malaysia, Philippines, and Thailand – brought home one gold, one silver and one bronze medal, in intense competition against the finest swimmers in the whole of Southeast Asia.

Year 11 student Fukang Wong stole the show with a blistering second 50m of the 100m Breaststroke to move from third to first in the final 25m of the race to take gold for Team Malaysia in 1 min 02.46.

Next up was Year 11 student Phiangkhwan “Eing” Pawapotako, racing in the 200m Individual Medley for Team Thailand. Eing swam a very tactical race and pulled into a clear second position by the final turn, but needed

THE CHAMP FROM CHINA: BISP Year 11 student and SEA Games gold medallist Fukang Wong to fight the final length to hold off the fast finishing Singaporean, taking second place in a 2 min 18.56.

Earlier on in the evening, graduating student Roxanne Yu, representing Team Philippines, fought a tough and strategic battle in the 200m Backstroke, swimming a new personal best of 2min 18.45 and racing to a bronze medal position after turning fifth at the 100m mark.

Also in the 200m back final was Year 12 student Chantal Liew, representing Team Singapore, who posted a 2min 23.96 finishing in

eighth position.

BISP JSA Swim Academy Head Coach, and Thailand Head Coach Simon Jones, said, “What a night team; each and every one of you made me, [Assistant] Coach Chris [Gaffney], and your teammates back home in Phuket very proud. Congratulations and the best of luck to those still to race.”

The day before, on Saturday 6 June, Eing claimed BISP’s first medal of the SEA Games, the silver medal in the 400m Individual Medley behind Olympic superstar Vien Thi Anh from Vietnam. Eing

raced to a new personal best, another Olympic qualifying standard in the medley events and a World Championship qualifying time for Kazan, Russia this summer.

Both Eing and Fukang now have three Olympic and World Championship qualifying times between them. In addition, Fukang has also been selected for the Malaysian team at the Commonwealth Youth Games, which take place in Samoa this September.

With one gold, two silvers, and one bronze so far at the 28th SEA Games 2015, BISP’s swimmers actually have more medals than Laos, Brunei and Timor Leste. To put it another way, if BISP were a country, they would be ninth out of 12 in the overall medal standings.

Follow BISP’s progress at the SEA Games on the team’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/swimphuket. For more information about the BISP JSA Swim Academy, visit www.bisphuket.ac.th/bispjsa-swim-academy or contact Head Coach Simon Jones at: aquatics@bisphuket.ac.th

A FRIENDLY AFFAIR: Aboubacar Sidibe (left) clears the ball before Phuket’s Pipat. Photo: Steven Layne

Ronins roused by Surat’s Roosters FOOTBALL

Steven Layne editor@thephuketnews.com

PHUKET FC STRUGGLED to protect their dignity in a punishing friendly match last Tuesday night (June 9) against Division 2 squad Surat FC. Played in front of several hundred die-hard football fans, the friendly match follows several weeks of idleness for the two clubs, who’ve been on break with many other Thai clubs to accommodate World Cup qualifiers and the Southeast Asian Games, taking place in Singapore.

The Surat FC Roosters currently sit in 8th place of 10 teams in the Thai Division 2 (AIS League) Southern region league, while Phuket are in 5th place of the Thai Division 1,

second-tier national league.

Dspite a few ambitious crosses in the first half, Phuket strikers saw no good chances as Surat’s wall proved to be impregnable.

It was Surat to break the ice with a strike by Amarin Jaiseusutt, with Phuket FC’s Pipat scoring the equalizer to save his side some grace.

Phuket have another friendly scheduled at home this Friday, June 12, against a much stronger opponent from the Thai Premier League, Thai Port FC. Kick off will be at 7pm.

The Yamaha League One 2015 season resumes with the 14th of 38 fixtures, on June 20, with Phuket on the road to Ayuthaya FC, who are currently dead last in league 1.

Class Act Media are proud media partners with Phuket FC.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015

Hurricane claims win at ACYC weekend regatta SAILING

Thanyapura to splash B300m on expansion

Chris Husted execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

T

ricky winds and a hard-andfast rain squall couldn’t keep Alan Carwardine’s 14-metre Stealth catamaran Hurricane from claiming outright victory in the Multihull division of Race 6 of the Ao Chalong Yacht Club (ACYC) Keelboat and Multihull Race Series 2015 on Chalong Bay on Sunday (June 7).

After a delayed start, the crew expertly plied the 14-metre Stealth catamaran through windless patches dotted along the course – from Chalong to Rawai to Baan Nit off Cape Panwa and back, twice – to finish first over the line and first overall in the class.

David Liddell’s recently launched Stealth cat Wow, also built by Asia Catamarans, had more difficulty avoiding the voids on the water, but still placed second on the day.

Tim Milner’s Seekronghuk crossed the line third, but not far in front enough of Grenville Fordham and Bob Mott’s Andaman Cabriolet Niña to beat the latter on corrected time.

Hats went off to Clem Betz and his crew on Davinci, who paraded around the course without a spinnaker and seemed to suffer the most at the hands of the wind gods, leaving the crew idling on the course

SPORT 39

McInnes showed his cruising skills Sunday by finishing the course ahead of many of the multihulls, though he chose not to fly a spinnaker at any time during the race.

Top place in the Monohulls on the day went to ACYC regular Mig Wehrle’s Aqua, rated as a sterling effort by the crew on the 28-foot Hunter.

The next ACYC race day will be on June 21. All are welcome join, regardless of sailing experience.

THE WORLD-CLASS SPORTS training and coaching facility Thanyapura Phuket has announced that it will invest B300 million on a huge expansion plan that will take five years to complete.

The investment will see the 143rai complex gaining a 100-metre training pool, four tennis courts, a multi-room wellness centre, an international school working towards becoming a UWC (United World College) with enhanced high-performance training programmes and another 114 accommodation units.

“The expansion will allow Thanyapura to host a whole new range of sports events and attract more athletes seeking to enhance their mental and physical readiness to compete in the growing number of national and regional sporting competitions across Asia and worldwide,” noted a press release issued on Monday (June 8).

For more information, visit ACYC. asia. http://acyc.asia/

For full story visit thephuketnews. com

The Stealth catamaran Hurricane excelled at chasing the pockets of wind on Chalong Bay. Photo: File praying for gusts of wind to carry them forward.

Regardless, the recent impressive results by the Phuket-built Stealth boats Hurricane, Wow and Kirill Stashevskiy’s Galeforce, the lone Stealth cat that did not race Sunday, have sent the cat among the pigeons on the Phuket sailing scene.

Wow, launched only last month, on Sunday raced in only her third regatta, and placed first and second respectively in her first two outings.

However, the classy results have yet to displace Niña, which holds top place overall in the series, or

Mark Horwood and Merv Owen’s slick trimaran Adrenaline, which despite fast approaching 30 years old is placed second overall.

Galeforce currently holds third place overall in the class, followed

by Wow and Hurricane, respectively, though the way they are racing, they could easily move up the ranks as the series progresses.

Holding top place in the Monohull division is Brent McInnes on the impressive the Beneteau First 53/F5 Overdrive. A decades-long Phuket sailor and founding member of the nearby Phuket Cruising Yacht Club,

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Run: #1529: Saturday 13 June, 2015 Run Start Time: 4PM Hares: PCFT Location: Chalong - Big Buddha Directions: Bottom of Big Buddha hill road just past Phuket Bird of Paradise in the open field on your right. Field has an overhead power line (2 metres) be careful passing under it. Bus will remain by the Mom and Pop store at the entrance. NO Parking on Big Buddha road.

Run challenging (No cripples) and good luck if you bring a dog on this run as all I will say about it is that there is over 4km of flat out running in spots on

@thephuketnews

the course. Walk is very easy even for a Saturday. Both walk and run everyone will pass very, very close to elephants (mind your dogs). No cover in Lagger so bring an umbrella rain or shine. Please fill free to use the Mom and Pop store as they are letting HHH use their open field.

This is PCFT’s “special day” when his Hash Number (#1529) = the Run Number (#1529).

What are the odds?

Bus pickup: Kamala @ Baan Rim Klong: 2:30pm; Patong @ Expat Hotel: 3pm; More info: phuket-hhh.com

EPL 2014/15 Predictions Winner: The 2014/15 EPL predictions winner Phil Seaman collects his prize of four Phuket-Kualar Lumper business class tickets from Kamarul Azshar Mohd Kasim, Malaysia Airlines District Manager Southern Thailand and Matt Pond, The Phuket News’ News and Sports Editor.

Sport Filipino takes title THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor2@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, JUNE 12 , 2015

Phuket United remove sting from the ‘Killer Bees’ > page 37

Mario Maglinao finishes with time of 2:55:35 MARATHON

3

Women’s winner Satomi Oka.

1-yea r old Ma r io Maglinao from the Philippines won the tenth Laguna Phuket International Marathon (LPIM) on Sunday (June 7) as the annual running festival took to the island’s roads with more than 5,700 entrants of all ages and abilities from 43 countries competing on a variety of distance courses in an atmosphere of community fun and charity fund-raising.

Maglinao finished the

42km marathon in a time of 2:55:35.

His winning LPIM trophy represented the 3rd annual partnership with a sister race – the Italian 10km Igrani Run – in an initiative by Laguna’s sponsor the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which also sponsors the Igrani Run. “I have run marathons since 2005 in the Philippines and I have run over 40 marathons so far,” said Maglinao.

“I had a good start today but I tried to save my energy during the first half because

I knew the weather was going to be very hot later in the race. I picked up in the 2nd half and started my lead after 21kms,” he continued.

“This is my first LPIM and I love it. I’m definitely coming back to defend my title next year. For those of you who are training to be a marathoner, keep training and train hard. It will bring success to your run. See you at next year’s race!” he concluded.

The women’s 42km race was won by Satomi Oka, 48 yrs old, of Japan in 03:43:17.

Mario Maglinao crosses the finishing line.

The Ultimate Phuket sports showdown RUGBY/CRICKET BILLED AS THE ‘FIGHT OF THE century’ or the ‘battle for greatness,’ sports enthusiasts agree that the recent hyped to the hilt title fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr and Manny Pacquiao was a predictable and disappointing spectacle.

Unwilling to have Phuketians let down by such an anti-climactic event, The Phuket News has joined forces with the Island’s cricket and rugby organisations in order to present a genuine ‘ultimate showdown’ and a true battle for greatness, which will be held at the ACG on Saturday, June 28.

In this clash of sporting codes, the recent Strategic Sports Phuket 10s Rugby champions – the Phuket Vagabonds – will face off against a Phuket Cricket Group (PCG) World XI in both cricket and rugby matches. . . to be played on the same day!

While victory and bragging rights will be a focal point for the players, charitable organisations and sport will be the real winners.

Monies raised from the event will be donated to the Asia Center Foundation (ACF), a local charity and NGO working with disadvantaged Thai and Burmese children, and to redevelop cricket facilities in Nepal following the country’s recent earthquake devastation.

Cricket Authority of Thailand (CAT) chief executive, Mohideen Kader, voiced his appreciation for Phuket’s effors to assist the people

ACF director Roelien Muller (center) acts as mediator between PCG captain Andrew McMillan (left) and Vagabonds captain Darryn Mathee (right). of Nepal. “The support being shown by the cricketing fraternity to donate to the cause we are familiar with is heart-warming. This indeed is the ‘Spirit of Cricket’”, he said.

Roelien Muller, director of the ACF, is very proud to be involved with the upcoming sports challenge. “ACF is honou red to be part of this fund-raising event in aid of restoration work in Nepal, and we are very thankful for being included as a beneficiary.

“Sport plays a major part in building bridges between countries, and contributes toward psychological and physical health. We hope that assisting the restoration of

cricket facilities in Nepal will serve as one more stepping stone towards re-building the many lives affected by this disaster,” Roelien said.

Following their success at the recent Phuket International Rugby 10s, victorious captain Darryn Mathee issued a fair warning to his cricket counterparts. “The Vagabonds are definitely looking forward to this challenge and will not back down easily on the cricket pitch. We will give the cricket team a great game and make them fight for victory in their own sporting code.”

Offering his views on the challenge ahead, David Thomas of the

PCG said, “The idea of a game against the Phuket Vagabonds came about after their [Vagabonds] heroic effort to win the Strategic Sports Phuket International Rugby 10s tournament last month. We know how the Vagabonds enjoy a challenge, and let’s face it, there is no bigger challenge than playing the PCG at the ACG, is there?

“With both sports enjoying such success lately, we thought it was a great opportunity to promote both cricket and rugby on Phuket and hopefully, encourage more people to take part. In the ACG, we have one of the best facilities in S.E. Asia.”

Dave added “There are still many people who are not aware of this facility that’s right on their doorstep, so by hosting this event we hope to raise awareness of the ground. At the same time, we want to raise much needed money for two worthwhile causes.”

The cricket match will be played under T20 format, with many of the Vagabond’s rugby team having a background in this the pinnacle of gentlemanly pursuits.

However, the rugby challenge will take place under a 10-a-side touch format due to a fewer number of cricketers with rugby playing experience.

But the sports extravaganza does not end there! Once the testosterone-fuelled event has concluded, the ladies will also take to the park, with the wives and girlfriends of the rugby and cricket squads showing off their own rugby skills.

If you are a sports fan, then this is an event not to be missed – a day for all the family, with a wonderful array of food, drinks and entertainment to be enjoyed.

Entrance is B100 for adults – children enter at no cost.

Pick up an edition of next week’s The Phuket News (June 19 issue) for a final schedule, lineups and news on the genuine sporting showdown of our generation!

For more information on how you can support this event, please contact Roelien Muller roemuthai@ gmail.com or Dave Thomas davethomas01@hotmail.com thephuketnews