16-09-2016 by The Phuket News

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

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TERMINAL EVENT AIRPORT HEADING FOR OVER-CAPACITY DESPITE B5.67BN NEW TERMINAL

A woman waits inside the new International Terminal. Photos: Tanyaluk Sakoot Tanyaluk Sakoot editor@classactmedia.co.th

rime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha is to officially open the new terminal at Phuket International Airport today (Sept 16), bringing to fruition a B5.67 billion project to double the airport’s passenger capacity to over 12.5 million travellers a year. The official opening by PM Gen Prayut was scheduled to be held at

in making the passenger flow as smooth as possible, Phuket Airport Director Monrudee Gettuphan told The Phuket News. Although reserved in revealing details of security at the new facility, Ms Monrudee noted that the new terminal will remain on “Level 3+” security, the highest level without invoking intrusive measures that interfere with passenger travel. The huge building offers more than 73,000 square metres of floor

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Illegal tour bus deadly accident spurs action

LIFE

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Instagram meet for photo feast

Aeroflot Airbus A330-300 taking off from Phuket. Photo: Richard Vandervord

8:30am, the same time that Aeroflot Flight 274 from Moscow was to touch down. Today’s celebratory opening comes after months of system checks and test runs, beginning in February with a flight of tourists arriving from Hong Kong and culminating with four flights over two days, last Thursday and Friday (Sept 8-9), with hundreds of tourists pouring in from China. The “test runs” have allowed staff to iron out last-minute wrinkles

NEWS

space over four floors. The Arrivals Hall alone covers 5,910sqm, of which 2,980sqm is inside air-conditioned space. The five baggage claim points are served by a carousel 380m long, and the inbound immigration hall features 19 counters with 38 officer stations. The Departure Lounge alone covers 4,280sqm, serving four gates, with 96 check-in counters and 17 outbound immigration counters with 34 officer stations. The outbound security points…

SPORT

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Aussie drug fugitive nabbed on Bangla POLICE ARRESTED A 58-year-old Australian man in a bar on Patong’s party street Bangla Rd on Tuesday night (Sept 13) after the man had spent three years quietly living in Phuket avoiding an warrant for his arrest in Australia on drug charges. Phuket Tourist Police and Phuket Crime Suppression officers, working with the Australian Federal Police (AFP), moved in and arrested Robert Gordon Pollybank Gee at Bar Funk, opposite the Tiger Pub bar complex on Bangla Rd, at 11pm. Gee was wanted on an arrest warrant issued in Australia on July 4, 2012, for drug-possession charges. To make matters worse for the Australian drug fugitive, Gee was also found in possession of a fake passport. “We found him at the bar. He was surprised to see us there,” said Maj Col

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Snake surprise spurs health check at Super Cheap store > page 7

Digging for gold Russian arrested for failed Patong gold shop heist Darawan Naknakhon editor@classactmedia.co.th

Australian drugs fugitive Robert Gee was surprised to see the police at the bar. Photo: Tourist Police Nareuwat Phutwiro, an investigator with the Phuket Tourist Police. The fake passport Gee was carrying identified him as Canadian national “Roy Greyeyes”, Col Nareuwat explained. “He admitted that the passport was fake, but he did not tell us where he bought it from,” he said. Gee entered Thailand without passing through an immigration checkpoint sometime in 2011, Col Nareuwat said. Tanyaluk Sakoot

Russian man has been charged for attempted robbery of a gold shop in Patong last Friday morning (Sept 9). Patong Police led by Lt Col Somsak Thongkleng arrested 32-year-old Dmitrii Sevastianov at a hotel on Phra Meita Rd last Saturday (Sept 10) on a warrant issued for attempted theft at night by destroying other people’s property and damaging other people’s property and assets. Sevastianov was at the hotel with his wife when arrested. Sevastianov admitted to police that an image caught on the shop’s CCTV was him and said his wife was nothing to do with the incident. The robbery took place at the Yaowarat Namchok gold shop in Patong on the morning of Sept 9. Police were shown CCTV

Police were able to get a good description of the man from CCTV footage from inside the gold shop. Photo: Darawan Naknakhon footage from the shop showing a man who was around 1.8 metres tall spending about 30 minutes breaking through a brick wall at the back of the shop at about 5:30am. However, once inside the man failed in his attempt to break open the shop’s safe. Lt Col Somsak explained, “The CCTV footage showed the male suspect finally enter the shop after successfully breaking through the wall at 05:56am. He used a cardboard box to conceal his face before

smashing one of the shop’s CCTV cameras. “At 6am he went to the counter searching for valuables. He then disappeared to the back of the shop,” he said. “Further CCTV footage clearly showed us that the suspect was tall. His physical appearance, including the colour of his eyes, resembled a foreigner. He also had tattoos on both arms. “We checked CCTV footage from the area close to the shop and found some that

showed a man, who looked like the suspect and wearing a raincoat, came out of a construction site next to the gold shop. The man headed toward Nanai Soi 8, and at 6:09am he turned left into a hotel on Pra Meita Rd. “All the CCTV footage we obtained pointed to one suspect, Mr Dmitrii Sevastianov, so we put him under surveillance. After we were sure we had our man, we requested an arrest warrant for him,” he added.

PM to open new terminal as airport arrivals continue to skyrocket Continued from page 1 ...feature 11 latest-technology x-ray machines, Ms Monrudee noted. As its name “International Terminal’ indicates, the new terminal itself is to be dedicated to serving international travellers, Ms Monrudee explained. “However, the old terminal will undergo extensive renovations and later be dedicated to serving domestic passengers only,” she said.

Despite the prowess of the new terminal, concerns were voiced more than two years ago that Phuket Airport would be over-capacity soon after the mega-expansion project was complete. “It’s imperative for us to get further expansion going [at Phuket] if we are to catch up with the fast-growing traffic demand,” said Mekin Petplai, then-President of Airports of Thailand (AoT), which oper-

ates six major international airports in Thailand, including in Phuket. Mr Mekin’s concerns drew action, with basic plans for a B3 billion “upgrade to the upgrade” to raise passenger throughput capacity to 18 million by 2018 tabled back then. His concerns were wellfounded. Phuket Airport served a total of 12,525,864 travellers – 6,955,139 international and 5,904,217 domestic – in 2015,

according to AoT statistics, and the island’s critical tourism portal is on track to bust that figure this year. From Jan-July this year, Phuket served 8,943,834 passengers, compared with 7,465,621 during the same period last year – already a 19.7-per-cent hike in the number of passengers passing through the airport. Meanwhile, the opening of the International Terminal

today also marks the ninth anniversary of the Flight OG269 air disaster in 2007, when a One-Two-Go aircraft crashed at the airport, killing 89 of the 130 persons on board. One survivor succumbed to burn injuries several days after the crash. Following damning reports over safety regulations, OneTwo-Go was subsequently shut down by its parent company Orient Thai, which still oper-

ates flights today. Phuket Airport’s only other disaster was Thai Airways Flight 365 from Hat Yai International Airport which crashed into the Andaman Sea off Phuket’s west coast on August 31, 1987, killing all 74 passengers and nine crew on board. Phuket Airport does not hold activities, nor displays any plaques, in remembrance of either event.

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Gov seeks PM support on key public projects The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

The fatal collision occurred while pickup driver Mr Niphon, with his wife and daughter in the vehicle, was turning right into the Baan Maneekram housing estate on Kwang Rd.

he Governor of Phuket is planning to bring a range of urgent projects needed on the island to the attention of Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-ocha when he visits the island today (Sept 16). Gov Chamroen Tipayapongtada presided over a meeting on Sept 7 with officials and members of the private sector to discuss economic issues, with the main topic of discussion being urgent projects for the island that Gov Chamroen wants PM Gen Prayut to support. At the meeting were Vice Governor Prajiad Aksornthammakul, Maj Gen Teeraphol Thipjaroen, representatives from the Highways Department, Expressway Authroity of Thailand (EXAT), and Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning. Gov Chamroen explained that Phuket has several urgent projects that need sup-

British man killed in motorbike accident

Gov Chamroen Tipayapongtada speaks at the meeting to discuss economics in the Andaman region. Photo: PR Dept port from the PM. “The first project we need to push for is the light rail, which is currently under study for a suitable plan and design that will least affect the environment. The project is waiting on its environmental report. We want this project to be included in the 2017 budget so we can start it early,” Gov Chamroen said. “Next is the International Conference and Exhibition

New Governor to arrive from Maha Sarakham CHOKCHAI DETAMORNthan, the current Governor of Maha Sarakham province in Northeast Thailand (Isan), will take up the post of Governor of Phuket on October 1. The Interior Ministry announced Governor Chokchai’s posting to Phuket on Tuesday (Sept 13). The announcement came after a Cabinet meeting held to announce the annual reshuffle of high-ranking government officials throughout the country. The annual transfer included promoting 24 vice governors to governors, transfers of three governors and the announcement of three Chief Inspectors at the Interior Ministry. Mr Chokchai has served as Governor of Maha Sarakam since October 2, 2015. Prior to that he was Deputy Director of the Department of Local Administration in Bangkok for three years. Chamroen Tipayapongtada, the current Governor of Phuket, will be transferred to the post of Governor of Nakhon Sri Thammarat province effective October 1. Gov Chamroen’s transfer was announced on August 17. Eakkapop Thongtub @thephuketnews

Chokchai Detamornthan, the current Governor of Maha Sarakham province in Northeast Thailand (Isan), will take up the post of Governor of Phuket on October 1.

Centre project which is planned to be built on 141 rai of government land in Mai Khao. The project has been studied and designed but it stalled because it did not get EIA approval. “After many meetings we agreed to keep pushing for this project but set out to change it from a conference centre to a merchandise exhibition centre,” he said. Gov Chamroen added that

he will also raise the KathuPatong tunnel project which is still awaiting the results of the EIA. “Another project needing support from the PM support is the Andaman railway. “I will also ask for a budget for our new Muang Mai-Pa Khlok road project, a 13-kilometre road that will help ease traffic coming onto and leaving the island,” he said.

A BR ITISH M AN WAS killed in Phuket last Saturday night (Sept 10) after the motorbike he was riding collided with a pickup truck on Kwang Rd in Wichit. Capt Patcharee Wongboon of the Wichit Police was notified of the accident, at the intersection in front of the entrance to the Baan Maneekram housing estate, at 8:30pm. Police arrived with rescue workers from Wichit Municipality and Ruamjai Kupai rescue foundation to find an Isuzu pickup stopped askew in the middle of the road. The driver, Niphon Kanprakob, 39, was standing by with his wife and daughter. In the middle of the road was a wrecked Honda motorbike and nearby was the

body of its driver, identified by police as a British national Michael Fraser MacPherson, 44, from Gloucester. He was confirmed dead on arrival at Vachira Phuket Hospital. No helmet was found at the scene of the crash. Mr Niphon told police that he was turning right into Baan Maneekram when the motorcycle approaching from the oncoming lane skidded out of control and crashed into the pickup truck. Mr Niphon was taken to Wichit Police Station for more questioning. Police have yet to confirm whether Mr Niphon was subjected to any alcohol test, and have also yet to reveal whether or not Mr Niphon will face any charges for the accident. Eakkapop Thongtub

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

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Airport-Patong by bus?

GENERAL MANAGER

Jason Beavan 086 479 7471

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Bus service to west coast towns quietly rolls along QUESTIONS & ANSWERS The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

QUESTION

SALES MANAGER Jittiya (Tiya) Rakdej 088 754 1371

salesmgr@classactmedia.co.th

A couple of years ago I was in Phuket and heard that the Provincial Land Transport Office will have buses operating between Phuket International Airport and Patong. I recently visited the island and saw minivans at the airport taking people to Patong, but not buses. Does Phuket have any buses to transport people from the airport to Patong today? – John J, Australia

ANSWER

SALES SUPPORT Siriporn (Nok) Seangmas 086 479 7470 sales@classactmedia.co.th

PR MANAGER Natchaya (Nat) Sittiprasert 088 765 5881 pr@classactmedia.co.th

We launched the Airport Bus Express to Patong several years ago and later slowly expanded our service to include Kata and Karon. The fare to Patong is currently B150 and to Kata and Karon is B200. Tickets can be bought from the driver. The first bus will be outside the old main passenger terminal at Phuket International

The bus service from Phuket Airport to Patong, Kata and Karon is still in operation. Airport at about 7:30am so we can serve passengers arriving on the early flights. The bus will be parked at our bus stop at the northern end of the terminal. Just follow the signs; as you exit the terminal, turn left and walk to the end of the building – our bus will be there. Our buses are creamcoloured with blue stripes. There is another bus service called “Airport Bus” that uses

orange buses. These buses go to Phuket Town. If you take this bus, you will need to catch another bus in Phuket Town to take you to Patong. Please note that our bus will depart the airport once it is full. Don’t worry, we have buses departing every hour. If you are in a hurry, it may be best to take a taxi from the airport. We advise the same to people who are carrying a lot of luggage with them.

If there are not enough passengers to justify using our full-size bus, we will use a minivan instead. We have three minivans that we use during the “low season” (May-October) to help reduce the cost of fuel for buses. The first bus will leave the airport at about 8am and last bus departs at 8pm. When you get on the bus, you must tell the driver where your hotel is. The driver will drop you off

at your hotel if possible. However, if your hotel is on a steep hill that our bus will not be able to climb, we will ask you to travel in one of our minivans for convenience and safety. Don’t worry, the fare is the same. Passengers can get off the bus (or minivan) at several locations en route to Patong, Kata and Karon. However, the bus or van will not pick up any passengers en route. The drop-off locations include Phuket International Airport, Muangmai, Thalang, Heroines Monument, Boat Lagoon, Tesco (bypass road), the See Kor Intersection (near Caltex petrol station) in Kathu, and Jungceylon in Patong (Phang Muang Sai Kor Rd). In Patong, we use Jungceylon as our main “terminal” for buses returning to Phuket Airport. If you want to use our service from Kata or Karon, please call us at 076-328291 or 084-065212 and we will pick you up. – Nikorn Petcharat, Manager, Airport Express Bus

The woman fled the scene by hitching a ride from a passing vehicle.

Police hunt for hit-andhitch woman POLICE ARE LOOKing for a foreign woman, believed to be Russian, who abandoned her car and fled the scene after her car slammed into a pickup truck in Srisoonthorn last Sunday morning (Sept 11). “We are trying to track down the vehicle’s registered owner and locate the foreign woman,” said Capt Sunan Petchnoo of the Thalang Police. Eakkapop Thongtub thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

PHUKET NEWS

Illegal bus spurs action over deadly accident Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

An MoU has now been signed for the cables along the Patong beachfront to be installed underground. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot

he driver of a tour bus illegally carrying passengers while still fitted with red license plates – and which killed a motorcyclist in a collision last Sunday (Sept 11) – has had his license suspended for three months and the bus operator has been fined B50,000. “The bus, which belongs to Rascharot tour company, had been recorded with the Transport Dept in July 2016 to be used for land transportation, but the bus had yet to be registered and issued license plates,” Prapai Suankul, Senior Policy Specialist at the Phuket Land Transport Office (PLTO), told The Phuket News on Tuesday (Sept 14). The accident occurred in front of Hongyok Bumrung School on Thepkrasattri Rd in Mai Khao at about 4pm when Korean tourists returning from Phang Nga to Phuket Town were witness to a horrific accident when the bus they were travelling in struck

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Patong closer to cable-free zone

The ‘red license plates’ are are specifically marked with the words ‘Use for sale or repair’. and killed 47-year-old local resident Noppadon Chairab. Mr Noppadon died instantly. “It is illegal to operate non-registered vehicle so the bus operator was charged with the maximum fine of B50,000 for operating non-registered vehicle and not paying road tax,” Mr Prapai said. “We recorded the offence for future reference and also

warned the operator not to use non-registered buses for transportation again,” he added. After the accident, bus driver Tanu Longsamud, 38, from Songkla told police that the motorbike suddenly cut in front of him while the motorbike driver was making a u-turn. However, Mr Tanu now faces a charge of reckless driving causing death.

“His license has been suspended for three months while he his charges are heard in court. If he is found guilty, his license will be terminated,” Mr Prapai confirmed. He added that the PLTO will investigate police stopping another Racharot tour bus with red license plates at the checkpoint onto the island on Tuesday evening (Sept 13).

THE PROJECT TO HAVE cables along the Patong beach road put underground moved one step closer last week when Patong Municipality signed an memorandum of understanding (MoU) with a construction firm to start the first phrase of the B200-million project. Patong Mayor Chamlermluk Kebsap signed the MoU with Managing Director of Communication Network System Co Ltd Mr Somchai Khajornwiphak at the Phuket Graceland Resort & Spa on Sept 8. Mayor Chamlermluk explained, “The MoU has been signed so that the overhead cables along the Patong beach road can be installed underground thus improving the

scenery of the area. “Patong Municipality sees the importance of improving the scenery in the area, especially along the beach area where residents and tourists want to enjoy the natural scenery. We need to rid the area of pollution and unpleasant sights so that we can be ready for when Phuket becomes a Smart City under the concept of Beautiful and Smart,” she said. “We have yet to set a date for the contractor to begin the first phrase of the project which will be along Thaweeewong Rd. We have to go through details of project with them again later this month,” she added. The Phuket News

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

AirAsia apologises for attendant prostration The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

Doctors gave Mr He’s official cause of death as drowning. Photo: Phi Phi Island Hospital/Facebook

Chinese tourist, 66, drowns on Phi Phi tour POLICE HAVE CONFIRM ed that doctors from Phi Phi Island Hospital found no evidence of health issues with the Chinese tourist who died after being pulled from the water unconscious during a tour to the island last Sunday (Sept 11). Lt Col Seksan Boonlerd of the Phi Phi Police told The Phuket News on Wednesday (Sept 14) that doctors from the hospital confirmed the cause of death of 66-year-old Chinese tourist He Renfu was drowning – and that the man suffered no other health conditions, contradicting initial reports. Mr He was among 30 tourists on board the Jupiter 2 speedboat, which arrived at Ao Sam, Phi Phi Island, from Phuket at about 11:30am last

Sunday. Some of the group, including Mr He, went for a swim and he was found unconscious in the water a few minutes later. Lt Col Seksan explained, “The man went into the water with a life jacket on and five minutes later the group found him unconscious in the water. His wife was with the group who helped pull him out of the water and took him to hospital… “Everyone, including medical staff, believed he suffered health issues which may have caused him to drown, but doctors concluded that the cause of death was drowning. His wife has told us that she does not want any further investigation into the incident,” he said. The Phuket News

ony Fernandes, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia Group, and Tassapon Bijleveld, Chief Executive Officer of Thai AirAsia, flew to Hat Yai last Friday (Sept 9) to apologise to a flight attendant who was forced to prostrate herself before the daughter of a complaining passenger on a flight from Phuket to Bangkok last month. “I, as Chief Executive Officer of Thai AirAsia, and Mr Tony Fernandes, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia Group, express our deepest regrets and acknowledge our responsibility towards these past incidents, which were the result of poor communication between us and the passenger who filed a complaint,” Mr Tassapon said in a statement issued on Sept 8. “The situation on the day of the incident could only be described as highly sensitive and emotional for all involved but we maintain that our executives never obligated our staff to perform an act of

Tony Fernandes, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia Group, and Tassapon Bijleveld, Chief Executive Officer of Thai AirAsia, flew to Hat Yai last Friday (Sept 9) to apologise to the flight attendant. Photo: Alec Wilson prostration and only wanted the issue to be resolved in the best way possible.” The incident in which the flight attendant had to prostrate herself to calm down a mother who reportedly was upset with the attendant asking what she could do to help her daughter who reportedly had a disability. The incident occurred on Thai AirAsia Flight FD3006, from Phuket to Bangkok, on Aug 26, reported Post Today. According to the report, a mother and two children boarded a flight. One of the children is reportedly autistic. One board, a flight attendant asked – without being informed that any special needs

passengers were on board – if the mother required any assistance with her daughter, which apparently enraged the mother. The flight attendant then was required to prostrate herself as a form of apology to calm the mother’s rage. The airline management later had a meeting with the

mother and the flight attendant who prostrated before the passenger, Mr Tassapon said. Mr Tassapon attributed the incident to poor communication between the airline and the mother, who Khaosod English identified as hospitality consultant Jumpoon Chavasiri.

Outrage over drunk-driving cop THE POLICE OFFICER facing drunk-driving charges after he landed six people in hospital in Phang Nga last Friday night (Sept 9) has been released on B20,000 bail, and police are still waiting on blood-alcohol test results from the Phang Nga Hospital, which police still say will take a week to confirm. Phang Nga Police, however, have finally released the name of the officer charged: Sub Lt Thanom Haesathit of Phang Nga Muang Police Station. Phang Nga Provincial Police Chief Col Suwat Kaewprom confirmed to the press that Sub Lt Thanom is facing charges of reckless driving causing injury and fleeing the scene of an accident. “We are gathering all information for this case and will send it to court,” Col Suwat said. “Sub Lt Thanom has been released on B20,000 bail,” he added. “If his alcohol level is confirmed as more than 50mg (per 100ml of blood), he will be charged with drunk driving,” said Col Suwat.

Police had to stave off local residents angry after Sub Lt Thanom’s accident left six people in hospital. In Thailand, the standard Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit for operating a vehicle is 0.05 per cent. Sub Lt Thanom was off duty when his pickup truck crossed Phetkasem Rd on Sept 9 and crashed into the two motorbikes and a car – before the officer fled the scene. He was chased down and finally brought his pickup truck to a halt within the temple grounds of Wat Mongkol Sutthawas, where attendees at a funeral attested that the officer reeked of alcohol. Lt Dusit Phongphan, an inspector with the Phang Nga Muang District Police, told The Phuket News on Tuesday (Sept 13), “The officer who caused the accident will be investigated by a disciplinary

committee set up by Phang Nga Provincial Police Commander. “All six people injured in the accident were taken to hospital that night. Three with minor injuries were sent home after treatment, but the three others remained in hospital,” he added. Lt Dusit named the three as Chanicha Thibura, Anin Thibura, and their daughter Ms Viticha. Ms Chanicha was discharged from hospital on Monday (Sept 12), Lt Dusit said. “Mr Anin and his daughter Ms Viticha were still recovering in hospital yesterday (Sept 12),” he added. Lt Dusit did not give a description of the extent of their injuries. Eakkapop Thongtub and Yutthawat Lekmak

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

The digital push

PHUKET NEWS

PM Prayut to launch Startup Thailand in Phuket The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

rime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha is to arrive in Phuket today (Sept 16) to officiate the Phuket launch of the Startup Thailand 2016 project at the Duangjit Resort & Spa in Patong. The project aims to inspire entrepreneurs to launch their own successful businesses. PM Prayut today is also to officiate the opening of the new International Terminal at Phuket International Airport (see page 1). At the Startup Thailand 2016 launch, PM Prayut will deliver his keynote address “Phuket: From World Class Destination to World Class Smart City & Startup Hub”. After delivering his keynote address at the event in Patong, PM Gen Prayut in the afternoon will attend an event to meet with local residents at Phuket Rajabhat University (PRU) in Rassada, north of Phuket Town. Organisers for the PRU public appearance expect more

Wanida Pakamaad presented the suspected snake to Consumer Protection officials. Photo: PR Dept

Suspected serving of snake spurs check

The Thai government is pushing for digital entrepreneurs to help drive the economy. than 2,000 people to turn out to see the Prime Minister. Joining the Prime Minister at the Startup Thailand launch event will be Science and Technology Minister Dr Pichet Durongkaveroj. “To date, there are about 1,0002,500 startups in Thailand. This year, the government is committed to supporting startups to expand their customer

base, not just in Bangkok,” Dr Pichet explained at the Bangkok launch of Startup Thailand earlier this year. “The government has set out a strategic plan to set up ‘Startup Districts’ throughout every part of Thailand. This year’s ‘Startup Thailand 2016’ will be organised under the concept of ‘Unite to Rise’, bringing together startups and

Storm surges erode northern beach A LARGE SECTION OF Nai Yang Beach has been washed away by strong waves duirng a recent spate of bad weather along the Andaman coast. Photos of the erosion, along the stretch of Nai Yang Beach directly behind Phuket International Airport, were posted on the Facebook page of the Phuket Lifeguare Service on Sept 8. Prathaiyut Chuayuan, President of Phuket Lifeguard Service (PLGS), told The Phuket News, “The recent weather has seriously affected

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The beach erosion has caused tress to fall along some sections of the beach. Photo: PLGS Nai Yang Beach. Over the past week there have been big, strong waves. The tide has been very high and people have not been able to get onto the beach.

“The waves have caused erosion along the beach, and in some places it is so bad that trees have fallen. No official from the area has been to inspect it yet,” Mr Prathaiyut said. When contacted by The Phuket News last Friday (Sept 9), Panu Kittikiet, an official from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation office at Mai Khao Municipality, said, “We don’t have any report about erosion along Nai Yang Beach. We will go to check it today.” Yutthawat Lekmak

related startup agencies from every sector for the first time in Thailand by focusing on innovative startup products and services… This is a good start to open up the stage for talented and creative startups to get together to exchange their views and unleash their creativities while showcasing their masterpieces to build up the new business model.”

CONSUMER PROTECtion and health officials on Wednesday (Sept 14) began their investigation into claims that a serving of pickled fish sold by a local convenience store contained snake, not fish, as ordered. Wanida Pakamaad, 29, a late-night noodle and somtam vendor in Phuket Town, raised the alarm with a Facebook post last Saturday (Sept 14). Ms Wanida reported that she bought the suspect serving of Pla Ra Kra dii Luan, which roughly translates to “pickled fish made from moonlight gourami”, from a Super Cheap outlet on Surin Rd in Phuket Town.

On Monday, Ms Wanida formalised her complaint by filing a formal report with the Phuket office of the Consumer Protection Board at Phuket Provincial Hall. Panida Mevichear, of the Phuket Consumer Protection Office, told The Phuket News on Tuesday, “We are preparing the documents in order to officially inspect the products sold at the main Super Cheap supermarket. “We will then join with Phuket Provincial Health Office officers to inspect and question the store about the pickled fish sold there,” she said. Yutthawat Lekmak

Opinion 8

OPINION

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

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KODCHANAT THINSEPON Editor

CHRIS HUSTED

Executive Editor

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

MATTHEW POND

News & Sports Editor

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

MARK KNOWLES

EDITORIAL A non-uniform way to fight corruption

t is clear that since taking control of the country on May 22, 2014, the military government is taking action to clean up what many see as a corrupt country. However the main point of focus seems to be political graft. Ms Yingluck and her government’s alleged corruption in the rice-pledging scheme are still going through the court process in a bid to recoup the money the government lost. More recently, Bangkok Governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra was suspended without pay until further notice after allegations of corruption in office. This order was signed by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha after he invoked Section 44 of the interim charter to deal with the matter. Even more recently, PM Prayut last Sunday (Sept 11), a day that marked national anti-corruption day, announced

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Examples of corruption shown to those in attendance at last Sunday’s ceremony included the above mentioned rice-pledging scheme and a B4.3-billion case of valueadded tax fraud. But there was not one mention of corruption being involved in any criminal case despite many believing that in some cases, such as the Red Bull heir killing an offduty policeman while driving his Ferrari, corruption was involved. During the said ceremony, the Anti-Corruption Organisation of Thailand called on Thais to be “active citizens” in curbing graft. But if they want that to happen, surely transparency in cases where the public believe corruption has played a role should be explained and relevant departments should be “active citizens” in proving that it has not.

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British man killed in Phuket as motorbike collides with pickup truck Russians rolling back to Phuket Police move quickly to trial over Krabi sex attack on American teacher AirAsia boss to apologise to attendant for prostration on Phuket flight Police drunk-driving crash lands six in hospital, sparks outrage Phuket power cables catch fire as heavy rain falls Police seize 2,155 buses, B4.7bn in zero-dollar Chinese tour network raid New Phuket airport terminal to get first test run Phuket Police move to end deadly accidents at Chalong black spot Patong moves one step closer to seeing cables put underground

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YOUR SAY

Lifestyle Editor

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

that Thailand will be free of corruption in 20 years. It cannot be disputed that PM Prayut and his team are seen to be doing their utmost to clean up corruption when it comes to politics, but there is one area where it is known that corruption exists that is steadfastly ignored. It would be of greater benefit to the public, and any ruling government, if the Royal Thai Police were seen to be clean of corruption. It is likely that nearly all residents in Thailand, albeit that not all of them are aware of it, know of someone who has made some kind of payment to avoid being criminally charged with an act of unlawfulness, whether that be within the Royal Thai Police or even the Immigration Bureau. But these departments appear to be off the radar as far as the war on corruption goes.

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The wheels of justice grind to a halt Re: Immigration officer faces murder charge for fatal Rohingya shooting. “The trial is still ongoing. It is taking time as the court still has yet to receive the official autopsy report.” So almost three and a half months after the “killing” still waiting for the forensic report, seems a very long time, but given they probably don’t want to charge/convict the cop then I see this going nowhere, except to blame the deceased, and let the cop off. Rorii ..........................................................

People in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones

Re: Russians rolling back to Phuket As much as I agree with most of the comments concerning Russians, I think they are just uneducated travellers. I’m guessing us Brits were the same when packaged holidays to Spain opened up back in the 60s, the mass market opened up and many more of us could travel, I’m sure the Spanish were saying exactly

the same about us Brits as we are saying about the Russians. They just have to learn that they are not in their own country and should act a little more respectfully. Nik Burling .................................................... Considering that most university educated Russians make less per month then uneducated Thais, maybe Thailand should start to ask who all these Russians are that can afford spending several “years” salary on a holiday. Criminals and other bottom-feeders. David Sivert .................................................... All you people do is A) take note of the nationality of the people in the headlines, then B) say nasty things about people of that nationality. Talk about low-hanging fruit. Joey Smiles-Bass ....................................................

The ups and downs of air travel

Re: Special Report: Why THAI’s new aircraft acquisitions are so important. Flew recently with Thai business to Brisbane on the 787, was very impressed. Unfor-

tunately on my return, the BKK-HKT leg was on their new 350. It seems they took the interior of one of their 15-year-old 777s; very disappointed with the comfort in their 350 business class. Simon Calleber ..................................................

Follow the money

Re: Billionaire ‘zero-dollar’ family jailed In Europe one can book and pay an all-in package for Thailand. Contents: flights, hotels, airport-hotel transfers. You can also can facilitate booking Thai tours in advance (cheaper than booking after arriving in Thailand), and together with your flight tickets you receive Thai hotel, transfer and tour vouchers from the travel agent in your European city before departure to Thailand. Is this European practice different from the way the Chinese tourists book in China their holidays for Thailand? To me it is a puzzle how a company worth B10 billion with more than 2,000 buses can be built up illegally. To establish such an enterprise takes years of hard work.

For every single move you need Thai papers, from the land office, transport bureaus, treasury, tax departments, etc. There are no “blind eyes” in Thailand when you are building up a successful business. “Thai blind eyes” only exist when the eyelids are closed by kick-backs. How on earth could this firm operate illegally for so many years? It might become an interesting court case if this “zero dollar” firm starts to produce many official licenses/documents of fovernment bodies. The same counts, of course, in the case that the firm cannot produce them. Kurt .................................................... Well, I’m sure the 12-day holding will be sufficient for the mom and son to gather millions of baht for redistribution among the Thai officials and police brass. I’m also sure lots of wealthy cronies are already delivering brown envelopes for favoured status at the bus auction. Nobody has faith that anything positive comes out of these events, unless you are connected to the top players in the game. Ed Sanders

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10 THAILAND NEWS

NACC probes Red Bull heir case delay BANGKOK THE DELAY IN ACTIng against Red Bull heir Vorayudh Yoovidhaya in a 2012 hit-and-run case is being examined by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), which suspects a senior policeman might have been behind the alleged irregularity. The NACC received allegations of police playing a role in the expiry of the statute of limitations for the speeding charge, according to NACC sources. Among the officers, Maj Gen Krit Piakaeo, former chief of Metropolitan Police Division 5, which oversees the Thong Lor area, is accused of malfeasance concerning the case. Maj Gen Krit has since retired from police service. As a result, the NACC has sent a letter to the city police chief Sanit Mahathavorn asking him to send “relevant officers” to meet the agency on Oct 3 for questioning, along with relevant documents regarding the case.

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Billionaire ‘zero-dollar’ tours family detained BANGKOK

Vorayudh Yoovidhya, a grandson of the late Red Bull founder, is accused of killing a policeman in a 2012. Photo: Bangkok Post Deputy national police spokesman Maj Gen Piyapan Pingmuang said the Royal Thai Police office has acknowledged the request and the investigation of Maj Gen Krit being conducted by the NACC. National police chief Gen Chakthip Chaijinda has ordered the police legal division to conduct a probe into the allegation, said Maj Gen Piyapan. However, the deputy spokesman insisted the police have clear regulations and procedures to examine whether the case was intentionally ignored until the statute of limitations expired. Bangkok Post

he Criminal Court on Tuesday (Sept 13) approved the detention for 12 days of a Bangkok mother and son accused of running illegal and highly lucrative “zero-dollar” tours for Chinese visitors. Ni s a Rojr u ng r a ng si , 61-year-old managing director of Royal Paradise Co, will be detained at the Central Women Correctional Institution while her son Wasurat, the 26-yearold managing director of OA Transport Co, was taken to Bangkok Remand Prison. The pair were detained Tuesday morning for questioning at the Phaya Thai police station in Bangkok. Police said on Tuesday evening that they would be held for at least the 12-day interrogation period authorised by the court. Police will have to release the pair or produce them in court by Sept 24 to request further detention if they wish to extend interrogation.

Millions of tourists from China prepaid for their tours but police allege they were strongarmed into buying selected, over-priced goods from shops providing kickbacks to the 'zero-dollar' tour operators. Photo: Chanat Katanyu T hey were of f icially charged with operating illegal tour services, damaging national tourism, and laundering money. Both denied all charges. Police then took them to the Criminal Court on Ratchadaphisek Rd to request they be denied bail to facilitate further investigation. Detectives plan to interrogate at least 40 witnesses and to trace the firms’ financial transactions and money trails. Relatives asked for their

release and offered to pay bail of B2 million each. The court ruled they should be detained to prevent flight and witness tampering. Police seized about 2,000 buses of OA Transport Co in Lat Krabang district, Bangkok, last Friday (Sept 9). The Anti-Money Laundering Office last week ordered the seizure of assets from the pair’s companies worth about B10 billion. Authorities said they operated the country’s biggest

zero-dollar tour network. The zero-dollar tours enable Chinese tourists to pre-pay all costs of a vacation in Thailand, including hotels, meals and tours with the Thai companies. According to police, these tours contained a major catch. Tourists were provided “free” tours, which included mandatory stops at carefully selected shops selling over-priced jewellery, leather bags, silk goods, and other souvenirs. Bangkok Post

Missing Chinese tiger zoo tourist found, safe Rescue workers search for the missing Chinese tourist yesterday morning (Sept 12). Photo: Trinai Chansrichol

CHONBURI A CHINESE WOMAN WHO went missing while visiting

Sriracha Tiger Zoo in Si Racha district last Sunday (Sept 11) was finally found on Tuesday morning (Sept 13). The woman, Gao Li Ping, 35, was visiting the tiger zoo in a group of Chinese tourists when she disappeared on Sunday evening, prompting Nong Kham police, administrative officials and rescuers of a local charity foundation to launch a search for the woman on Sunday night and Monday (Sept 12), but to no avail. The woman was finally found by local residents on today (Sept 13) as she was washing her clothes on the bank of a canal, about four kilometres from the tiger zoo. The woman appeared a little exhausted when found. The residents took good care of her and informed the police. Ms Gao was expected to be taken by police for a physical examination and questioning later on Tuesday. A Chinese tour guide told police on Sunday that Ms Gao was travelling with the tour group after breaking up with her husband and that she appeared to be under stress and often went off on her own. Bangkok Post thephuketnews

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ASIA NEWS 11

Risking all in a drug war

Filipino addict knows he could be next as bloodshed continues PHILIPPINES

edicab driver Reyjin dives into a neighbour’s house for a quick meth fix, fearful of taking a bullet to the head in Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s brutal war on drugs but unable to quit. Close to 3,000 people are said to have died violent deaths since Duterte took office over two months ago and immediately implemented his scorched-earth plans to eradicate drugs in society, ordering police to shoot dead traffickers and urging ordinary citizens to kill addicts. The bloodbath has seen unknown assailants kill more than half the victims, according to police statistics, raising fears that security forces and hired assassins are roaming through communities and shooting dead anyone suspected of being involved in drugs. Armed police constantly circle in Reyjin’s Manila slum community, but he continues to snort the fumes of the highly addictive methamphetamine known as “shabu” that Duterte has warned is destroying the lives of millions of poor Filipinos. “It’s scary because I could be next,” said the gaunt, gaptoothed 28-year-old, speaking on the condition his identity not be revealed for security reasons. The father-of-three said two masked motorcycle gunmen riding in tandem on a motorcycle had shot dead a woman who sold small amounts of drugs to him and other residents. “She was sitting in the alley when she took two bullets to the head,” he said. Such riding-in-tandem

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Rodrigo Duterte rose to the nation’s top job after spending most of the past two decades as mayor of Davao, earning a reputation as a ruthless leader willing to forsake human rights to enforce law-and-order. Photo: Manman Dejeto/AFP murders are one of the most common forms of killings by the shadowy assassins. Often a piece of cardboard, with “drug peddler” or “drug addict” written on it, is placed on the corpse. This has led to the war on crime becoming known as “cardboard justice”. Meanwhile, police have reported killing 712 people they have branded drug suspects. National police chief Ronald dela Rosa has repeatedly defended his officers, insisting they only kill when their own lives are in danger. However, two policemen have been charged with murder over the jailhouse deaths of a father and son, who autopsies showed to have been beaten so badly before being shot that their limbs were broken. The United Nations, the US government and human rights groups have expressed alarm at the bloodshed, with some critics warning the Philippines is in the midst of a reign of terror as authorities act with no regard for the law. Duterte and Dela Rosa have repeatedly insisted they are acting within the boundar-

ies of the law, while accusing their critics of siding with the drug traffickers and ignoring the devastating consequences of what they describe as a national shabu crisis. They say most of the unexplained deaths are being carried out by drug syndicates waging war on each other. Yet on the day he was sworn into office, Duterte gave a speech to a crowd in a Manila slum in which he called on them to kill drug addicts in their own community. And in an address to a group of drug addicts who had surrendered to police last week, Dela Rosa called on them to kill their suppliers and burn down their homes. Dela Rosa later apologised for the comments, saying they were made because he was angry, but they nevertheless added to an atmosphere of a dramatic breakdown in the rule of law. In Reyjin’s Manila slum, the violence and security presence has slowed the drug trade and made shabu more expensive. But lots is still available, in

what could be a worrying sign for Duterte who vowed during the election campaign that he could completely wipe out the trade within six months. “If you want to buy, you just go stand there on the street and somebody will approach you,” said Reyjin, who took his first hit of shabu when he was 13. “You hand over the money

and he will tell you to wait and have somebody else deliver the drugs to you.” Even the shabu “dens”, in which people rent out their huts for addicts to take a hit, are still operating, according to Reyjin. Reyjin said he earned about 400 pesos (B295) a day, taking passengers on short pedicab trips and occasionally doing

other odd jobs. He said he was spending about one quarter of his earnings on shabu. It used to be a 50-peso-a-day habit, but the price of shabu had doubled because of the drug war, according to Reyjin. Neighbours said the eldest of Reyjin’s three children, a grade-schooler, looked malnourished and often went to school hungry. The two other siblings looked dirty and were forced to wear hand-me-down clothes in their one-room house, they added. The neighbours said they also suspected him of stealing small items from their homes to fund his habit. Reyjin said he was aware of the toll his habit took on his family. But, even compounded by the threat of his children being orphaned in the drug war, he said he could not stop taking shabu. “Sometime I tell myself I have to stop,” he said. “But my body craves it.” AFP

12 WORLD NEWS

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Challenging chaotic old ways Shiny buses on new Tanzanian transit system bring much relief TANZANIA

we a t y p a s s e n g e r s crammed into battered buses and stuck in traffic jams look on enviously as Tanzania’s shiny new commuter buses f ly by on the pristine asphalt of dedicated highway lanes. In Dar es Salaam, the East African country’s biggest city of five million people, rush hour has always meant chaos, until now. The first phase of a new bus rapid transit system opened earlier this year offering a swift, clean alternative to the traditional “dala dala” buses, a twist on the English word “dollar” coined in the 1970s when the system started as an answer to inadequate public transport. The new route cuts through 20 kilometres of the seaside city with two lanes of tarmac running down the middle of the existing highway. When completed the route will extend for 130km, separated from the traffic by a crash barrier that prevents

A Dar Rapid Transit (DART) bus travels in Dar es Salaam. Photo: Said Khalfan/AFP motorists from taking advantage of its free-flowing smoothness. “Ever y day, hundreds of thousands of people lose time, and therefore money, in traffic jams, which have become a very big problem in Dar es Salaam,” says Robert

Lwakatare, head of the government agency responsible for overseeing the Dar Rapid Transit (DART) project. A recent study estimated that traffic jams cost the Tanzanian economy $188 million (B6.55bn) a year. “It’s amazing,” says one

young passenger who gave just her first name Judy, as a Chinese-made bus with bright blue-tinted windows pulls up to the platform. There are 140 buses and 27 new stations in the transit system, enough to meet demand for the time being.

“Before I took two to two and a half hours to go into the centre of Dar es Salaam, and now it takes me 30 minutes,” Judy said after scanning her ticket at an automated gate. “This might seem normal in Europe, but it’s not in our countries,” says Lwakatare. “All this is unique in East Africa.” The clean vehicles themselves are a far cry from the dilapidated dala dalas, of which there are 7,000 registered in Dar es Salaam today, according to African Development Bank figures. The drivers on the new buses wear short-sleeved shirts, ties and neatly pressed trousers and politely ask passengers to sit before starting off. Aboard the dala dalas, passengers find any space they can, while drivers shout and conductors hang precariously from open doors. The first phase of construction cost $290mn (B10.1bn), mostly funded by a World Bank loan, and Tanzania is relying on the African Development Bank to fund the remainder of the project.

Lwakatare says that around 100,000 people already use the new buses every day, a figure predicted to rise to 300,000 in the months ahead. Costing 400-800 Tanzanian shillings (B6) the ticket price is a little more expensive than on the dala dalas, which are destined to be phased out as the new system comes online. Part of the budget is earmarked for compensating dala dala owners, who have also been included in a private sector consortium to operate the network in partnership with the government DART agency. A dala dala tout named Justin, in faded jeans and an old green and grey jumper, views the new buses and what they mean for his future with equanimity. “For the moment, people still need us because the blue bus does not go everywhere and is a bit more expensive. “Later, we’ll see,” he says with a shrug, “but I think there will always be a need for a cheaper service.” AFP

Thousands rally against bullfights SPAIN THOUSANDS OF SPANIArds took to the streets of Madrid last weekend to demand an end to the centuries-old but controversial tradition of bullfighting. The protest came after the anti-bullfighting lobby successfully managed to obtain a ban on a famous festival which ended with a bull being speared to death. The regional government of Castilla y Leon in June banned the killing of bulls at town festivals, in a move that targeted the northern region’s controversial Toro de la Vega festival where horsemen chase a bull and spear it in front of onlookers. The Madrid protesters held up banners saying: “Bullfighting, the school of cruelty” and “Bullfighting, a national shame”. A spokesman for the Party Against the Ill-Treatment of Animals (PACMA) said it was “time to end bullfighting and all other bloody spectacles”. “Bulls feel and they suffer,” said Chelo Martin Pozo, a 39-year-old from Seville who had come to Madrid for the rally.

Demonstrators hold a banner reading ‘I want you alive’ in front of ‘Las Cortes’ as thousands of people demonstrated against bullfighting in Madrid. Photo: Curto De La Torre/AFP “Bullfights are a national shame and if they represent me, then I am not Spanish,” she said. Madrid resident Azucena Perez marched outside the parliament holding up a banner saying: “Bullfighting and the Bourbons should be in museums,” referring to the country’s royal family. “I think our laws should prohibit the torture of animals as a form of entertainment,” the 36-year-old said, admitting, however, that her grandfather was a big fan of the corrida. Spain’s first pro-bullfight lobbying group, the Bull Foundation, made up of breeders, matadors and aficionados, was set up last year. A number of protest rallies in favour of the controversial past-time have been

held recently, such as one in the eastern city of Valencia, a major bullfighting city, which drew thousands of people in March. Valencia, Spain’s third largest city, meanwhile, has banned the tradition of setting bulls loose with lighted torches attached to their horns called “bous embolats”. Leading Spanish daily El Pais this week said that 1,736 bullfights had been staged in the country last year, 132 less than in 2014. However, supporters of bullfighting, known as “aficionados”, are not giving up without a struggle. They see bullfighting as an art that is an integral part of Spanish culture, like flamenco dancing. AFP thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

BUSINESS NEWS 13

Wolf Blass pops the cork

Australian wine giant moves on expansion deal FOOD & BEVERAGE Mark Knowles editor1@classactmedia.co.th

a ng kok Beer a nd Beverages Co has recently sealed a deal for exclusive Thailand distribution rights for Wolf Blass, one of Australia’s most successful winemakers. Head winemaker for Wolf Blass Chris Hatcher recently visited Phuket to host an exclusive dinner at Bliss Beach Club, to mark the newly inked partnership, and showcase the brand’s range of premium wines. Bart Duijkers, Area Director – South for Bangkok Beer and Beverages, said he is pleased with the timing of the deal, as the island gears up for high season. “Not only is it a prestige brand, but it is exciting that the brand was already on the island and now it’s coming to us, so it’s a real opportunity for us to grow it,” said Mr Duijkers. “We are starting with a good range, from entry level to premium, so I think we

Chris Hatcher (left), Head Winemaker for Wolf Blass, with Bart Duijkers (right), Area Director – South for Bangkok Beer and Beverages, announced the deal in Phuket last weekend. can represent the brand very well,” he said. “It couldn’t come at a better time, because September and October are contracting months so most restaurants write their wine lists once a year at this time and by November it’s all done and dusted, so it is a perfect time,” he added. Mr Hatcher said he hopes the new deal will open the way for Wolf Blass to increase

sales of their premium and ultra-premium label wines in the Kingdom. Wolf Blass is a key player in the Australian market, with annual earnings in 2014 of AUS$100 million. “The previous distributor only really focused on our entry point wines and we wanted to showcase our whole portfolio. If you look at the success Wolf Blass has had around the world it

is really driven by our midrange wines and above,” said Mr Hatcher. Wolf Blass was founded in Australia in 1966 by German winemaker Wolfgang Franz Otto Blass. The company gained its first success in 1974 when it won the prestigious Jimmy Watson Trophy, an accolade that is still considered Australia’s most prestigious and sought after wine award. Since then the company

has gone on to receive a string of awards cementing its place as one of Australia’s leading wine producers. Most recently, the company garnered the Red Winemaker of the Year award at the prestigious International Wine Challenge in London, for the third time. “We are very keen on winning wine competitions as it helps give us a third party endorsement to show our customers that we can compete with international wines,” said Mr Hatcher. Wolf Blass has also signed sponsorship deals with major sporting organisations this year, including the Nippon Professional Baseball Organization (NPB) in Japan, National Basketball Association (NBA) in Greater China and Manchester City Football Club. “More than 300 million people follow the NBA in China and many of them fit our key demographic of affluent people of ages 25-35, it’s the same in South Korea and Japan. Now with our sponsorship of Manchester [we can tap in to] their huge following in Asia as well,” he said.

Officials predict a huge fall in the number Chinese tourist arrivals this month.

Zero-dollar clampdown hits arrivals TOURISM THE RECENT CRACKDOwn on zero-dollar tour operations is having a short-term impact on the tourism industry, with the number of Chinese visitors expected to drop 20 per cent this month. Arrivals of Chinese tourists during the Sept 1-11 period tallied 690,375, falling 16% shy of the targeted figure, according to the Tourism and Sports Ministry. “The impact will only be short-lived and the number of Chinese tourist arrivals is expected to fall by 20% this month,” said Tourism Minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul. The expected drop in Chinese tourist arrivals follows a major crackdown on “zerodollar” tours. (See page 10.)

Vietjet announces new routes from Phuket to Bangkok and Chiang Rai AIRLINES VIETNAM-BASED airline Vietjet has announced it will be offering two new domestic routes, including a daily Phuket to Bangkok flight, and a Phuket to Chiang Rai flight on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The announcement is part of its “domestic debut” in Thailand which also includes a Bangkok to Chiang Mai route.

One new international route f rom Bangkok to Haiphong (Vietnam) was also announced. Vietjet currently operates direct routes from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Speaking at the announcement ceremony on Sept 6, Tourism and Sports Minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul said, “Vietjet’s decision to invest in the future of Thai air travel with a dedicated domestic presence is a big market movement.

“It brings additional capacity to the low-cost flight sector in Thailand, and provides Thai people and global tourists the added benefit of increased affordable ticket choices and enhanced convenience. “We have an ongoing commitment to improving bilateral relations between Thailand and Vietnam, and so this recent development gives a welcome boost to those efforts in line with the mission of TAT’s Two

Countries, One Destination program, which has been running since last year.” Currently, the airline boasts a fleet of 40 aircraft, including A320s and A321s, and operates 350 flights each day. It has already opened 53 routes in Vietnam and across the region to international destinations such as Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, China and Myanmar. It has carried nearly 25 million passengers to date. The Phuket News

Nguyen Thi Thuy Binh (centre), Vietjet Air Vice President, joins hostesses at the launch of the new flight services in Thailand held last week.

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14 BUSINESS NEWS

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Unearthing the beauty of Slate he renowned Phuket resort Indigo Pearl, located at Nai Yang Beach just south of Phuket International Airport, last month was rebranded as The Slate as a member of the Design Hotels network. Design Hotels AG is a publicly traded company providing hospitality services to a network of over 280 independently owned small boutique and luxury hotels in over 50 countries worldwide. Here Paul Jordan, General Manager of The Slate, speaks exclusively with The Phuket News on what the rebranding of the iconic resort means.

We are also working on launching new inspiring and exceptional experiences in the coming months. For example, we have expanded the range of activities we offer children to include unique spa experiences, Thai cooking classes, Muay Thai boxing classes, scavenger hunts, etc. We are treating our junior guests to special in-room tents, marshmallows, and colouring books so they can have their own slumber parties. We have also launched a new MICE programme to encourage productivity and team bonding with group activities such a yoga, archery and cooking class plus healthy, wholesome meals focusing on superfoods for the brain.

Resort Owner and Managing Director Wichit NaRanong, much considered as the “founding father” of Phuket tourism, speaks of the need to “evolve”. Has anything notable changed at the resort? Are there any plans to make any major changes? If so, what changes are coming? The refreshed brand and

Has the resort’s key target market changed? If so, from what to what? If it hasn’t, what remains the resort’s primary target market and why the resort is holding to that model? The Slate will continue to attract travellers who seek true and local experiences. Our guests like to stand out from other tourists and they

HOSPITALITY The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

The Slate is still owned by the Na-Ranong family who are very hands-on in the running and management of the property, says Paul Jordan, General Manager of The Slate. new name is a nod and reflection of the unique untold history of our property and link with the Tin Mining heritage of Phuket. One of the key materials found in this industry was slate and the Na-Ranong family are third-generation

miners so the name The Slate immediately brings us back to the history of the property. Moreover, we want to share a different Phuket experience highlighting this very untold history and the true character of the island.

We are refreshing all suites, villas, food and beverage outlets, and wellness facilities. Our new menus offers a wider range of healthy options as well as flavourful local dishes that stay true to Phuket’s culinary traditions.

are interested in discovering the real, authentic Phuket. They enjoy experiencing bespoke itineraries which offer unique experiences for example, learning how to cook authentic dishes from Phuket or island excursions led by a local guide. We have always placed an emphasis on making family travel fun and comfortable. We want to create a family-friendly environment that allows guests of all ages to experience Phuket’s character and culture. Is The Slate now financially involved with any hotel chains, boutique or otherwise? If so, who, and what is the relationship? Our brand has one property in Phuket, Thailand. The Slate is still owned by the Na-Ranong family who are very hands-on in the running and management of the property. We are proud to be part of Design Hotels™ where every hotel in their portfolio provides an individual hotel experience and reflects the vision of an independent hotelier. We share their vision of offering genuine hospitality that is rooted and enhanced by thought-provoking design.

Beyond Resort Khaolak scoops luxury award HOSPITALITY Adults-only Beyond Resort Khaolak in Phang Nga has won a World Luxury Award.

KATA GROUP RESORTS Thailand has won a 2016

World Luxury Hotel Award for its adults-only Beyond Resort Khaolak in Phang Nga. The winning category, recognising the attributes of the romantic villa resort, is set to be announced in October 2016. The World Luxury Hotel Awards are among the pinnacle achievements for luxury hotels and resorts across the globe and highly respected accolades within the industry. Recognised worldwide, the awards honour the worldclass facilities and service excellence to guests of hotels and resorts. “Beyond Resort Khaolak is renowned as an award-winning resort, having recently won the Most Romantic Resort in Asia and Australasia at the 2016 Luxury Travel Awards as well as a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2016,” the release added. In 2015, the resort was awarded the TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award in the category of Romance, an honour awarded to less than one per cent of global hotels and resorts rated on the Trip Advisor site. The Phuket News thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Phuket foodies to get busy on Instagram

Students dive into wild Indonesia

IN THE CLOUDS Hit the rough mountain backroads of Nepal, where the only way to go is up > P20

Kathmandu’s heritage was shaken but hardly stirred in last year’s earthquake. Photo by Tim Newton

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16 CULTURE

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Thailand’s cultural melting pot SIRINYA’S WORLD Dr Sirinya Pakditawan pakditawan@googlemail.com

The mixed raced children of Thai and foreigners or luk kreung, have become a popular symbol of how Thai and Western cultures interact in the modern world.

Sirinya Pakditawan is a ‘luk kreung’, or halfThai, born and raised in Hamburg, Germany. She enjoys writing about Thailand, with a focus on culture, art, history, tradition and on the people, as well as a mix of topics concerning Thai popular culture, travelogues and articles about Thai food. Sirinya’s aim is not only to entertain you but to provide you with information and facts about Thailand, its culture and history that may not be generally known, in particular to the Western world. She has a PhD in American Studies from the University of Hamburg. To read the original story, and many more, be sure to check out Sirinya’s blog: www.sirinyas thailand.de

any cultural theorists have explored the relationship between farang and Thai national identity or “Thainess”. They posit that since the 1950s and the beginning of the 21st century, foreign influences have played an increasing role in how modern Thai identity is made. The mixed-race children of Thai and foreigners or luk kreung, as they are know here, have become a popular symbol of how Thai and Western cultures interact in the modern world. These Thai-Western unions, and luk kreung, have been known since the Ayutthaya period. However, it is only in post-Vietnam War era that they have become a widespread social phenomenon and been woven into the cultural fabric of Thailand. Prior to the later decades of the 20th century, interracial marriages were generally limited to small groups of people. These marriages were most often between people who were at the forefront of cultural contact, such as Christian and Chinese-Thai folk, who worked closely with Europeans. Nevertheless, there were some rare cases of Thais marrying foreigners which occurred among royals or the elite. For instance, Prince Chakrabongse Bhuvanath (Prince of Bisnulok) married his Ukranian wife Ekaterina “Katya” Desnitskaya and the union produced their son Prince Chula Chakrabongse. Another prominent example is the marriage between Prince Rangsit Prayurasakdi and the German lady Elisabeth Scharnberger. They had three children, two sons and a daughter called Princess Charulaksana Kalyani Rangsit. In fact, there were a few Thai men of royal descent who married Western women at the beginning of the

‘Luk kreung’ actress Florence Faivre played the leading role in ‘The Siam Renaissance’. Image: Viki.com

Ekaterina Desnitskaya, Prince Chakrabongse Bhuvanath and their son Chula. 20th century. For instance, there was Lady Ludmilla Ivanovna Barsukova from Russia who was married to General Mhomjao Thongtekhayu Thongyai. They had four children together and stayed in Hua Hin. Lady Ludmilla, who is probably of Russian royal lineage, lived in Thailand until she died in 1980 at the age of 90, her Thai name was Mhom Mali. Among common folk, Thai-farang relationships started becoming more common in the 1960s when American GIs were stationed at the US military bases in upcountry Thailand. Some of these American soldiers formed relationships with Thai women most of whom came from poor rural areas. There was often a social stigma attached to these relationships and as a result luk kreung from the Vietnam War era were not regarded as desirable. Despite the often negative perceptions of luk krueng in the 1970s and 80s, it now seems that Thailand has reinvented them as representatives of a modern form of Thainess. For example, the movie The Siam Renaissance (2004) starring Thai-French actress Florence Faivre, deals with how modern Thai identity has been in some ways been subsumed by the influence of powerful Western culture. The Thai fascination with luk kreung has only increased and it is now common to see them as characters in novels, movies and television series. A fascinating book which touches on

Princess Charulaksana Kalyani Rangsit was born on August 7 in 1924. this subject, The Ambiguous Allure of the West. Traces of the Colonial in Thailand (2010), charts the rise of luk krueng as television and advertising stars and suggests that they provide a way for Thais to reassess how they see “their cultural selves on the world stage”. In this way, luk krueng are often presented as being more cosmopolitan, globalised and modern than their Thai contemporaries. This trend towards adopting Western culture is often described as originating in the late 19th century with the Siamese people’s rapid adoption of siwalai or “civilised” things. The present popularity of WesternThai luk kreung in soap operas, advertising and the media in general, makes it clear that they play an important role in the construction of the modern Thai national identity.

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

TECHNOLOGY 17

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Get your food and photo fix #Phuket Amy Bensema bensema.amy@gmail.com

nstagram’s Worldwide InstaMeet 14 is happening across the world this weekend, September 17-18. The event is a chance for mobile phone photographers, Instagram enthusiasts and food lovers to get together and celebrate their love of photography and food through strategic food styling, clever filters and utilizing the hashtag #WWIM14 The theme for Worldwide InstaMeet 14 is food. Through celebrating food, the event presents a unique opportunity to bring together friends, both old and new, to celebrate. It’s not only about celebrating the diversity of food and how it brings people from all backgrounds together, it’s also a chance to showcase delicious local foods from Phuket, which Unesco has now deemed a “City of Gastronomy”. Phuket’s very own Instagram-based project, Phuketstagram, is planning to participate in Worldwide InstaMeet 14 and is extending the invitation to other Instagram enthusiasts across the island to join in. Unfamiliar with Phuketstagram? It is an Instagram account that encourages locals, expats and tourists to see Phuket differently. The account showcases Phuket’s natural beauty, traditional charm, local customs, culture and everyday life. Phuketstagram is quite popular on Facebook and Insta-

gram. Currently, the hashtag #phuketstagram has been tagged over 37,000 times. Phuket will join in on Worldwide InstaMeet 14 this Sunday, September 18 2016. The meeting place is the island’s trendy Chillva Market at 5pm in front of the market’s huge sign. The group will then explore the market and snap photos of the various foods on hand, whether it be delicious Thai street eats

Going for a ride

ne of the national symbols of Thailand, the tuk-tuk, will also soon serve people around the world in a new arcade racing game. Dubbed Tuk-Tuk Rush, the game is developed by a creative team of German and Thais, headed by Frank Holz, managing director of mobile and online game developer Gawooni, who has been in Thailand for over six years. “I like this country, I love elephants, and I ride a lot of tuk-tuks here,” he said. “I had an idea that when I have my own game company, I will do a tuktuk game because I know most tourists really enjoy riding them,” he said. Tuk-Tuk Rush’s key features are casual racing action with two fantastic game modes: ultra-competitive endless mode

@thephuketnews

A screengrab from Tuk-Tuk Rush. Images: Courtesy of Gawooni and beautiful and enjoyable story mode. The design is authentic, with more than 40 hotspots from all over Thailand, and over 10 tuk-tuks of different parameters. “It’s easy to control, but hard to master,” Holz said, adding that TukTuk Rush is promoting Thailand in a unique and interactive way. Bangkok Post

or gourmet burgers. To get Instagram enthusiasts in the mood for the upcoming Worldwide InstaMeet 14, Phuketstagram recommends checking out some of the hottest food bloggers currently on Instagram at: stylecaster.com/best-food-bloggersinstagram/ For more information or to join Worldwide InstaMeet 14 in Phuket, email

teamphuketstagram@gmail.com or call Amy Bensema on 091-0433640.

Follow Phuketstagram on social media

Instagram: instagram.com/phuketstagram Facebook: facebook.com/phuketstagram Dedicated event hashtags: #WWIM14 #instameet #Phuket #phuketstagram #PhuketFoodies #WWIM14_phuket

18 EXPLORE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Most of the restaurants have open-air seating for their customers.

Chillva brings the cool to market JAMIE’S PHUKET

Jamie Monk editor@classactmedia.co.th

The Chillva Market officially opened at the end of April this year, with the aim of being a bit more cool and trendy than your standard market.

Local food abounds, but there is also plenty of Western options.

huket has many markets that might interest a visitor, the most popular is certainly the weekend market, which is open Saturday and Sunday nights at Wat Naka, south of Phuket Town. But it has plenty of competition now. The Indy Market opened a few years ago in the Phuket Old Town area and is popular with young people. The excellent Lard Yai Walking Street market on Thalang Rd in the heart of Phuket Old Town on Sundays is definitely worth a look. If you want a real working market – you know, vegetables, fish, meat, fruit and fresh food – I’d suggest visiting the main freash market in Phuket Town or maybe the Kathu fresh market, but I think what people want is a mix of food, restaurants, bars and stalls selling clothes and arty things. The Sunday market in town is probably my favourite, but it’s only on Sundays! The weekend market is an experience, but can be too busy for me, but now there’s something new! The Chillva Market officially opened at the end of April this year, with the aim of being a bit more cool and trendy than your standard market. Chillva has a mix of shops, market stalls, bars, restaurants, food stalls and often has live music too. Some of the shops and bars are open every evening, but the main market is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday starting late afternoon and closing around 11pm. Best to visit from about 6pm. My last visit was at about 5pm and that did seem too early, it was very quiet. It gets much busier after dark and has quickly become popular. Chillva is located in Samkong, which is in the north end of Phuket Town. It’s between the Tesco Lotus store and the Bangkok Hospital Phuket, close to the Chinese shrine in Samkong. I avoided the market for a few months mainly because between our house and Chillva is a big messy roadworks where an underpass has been built and it’s taken a lot longer to complete than planned. We should be able to drive straight from Kathu to Samkong, but for a long time we’ve had to make a big detour down the bypass road and u-turn back towards town. That is now almost complete.

Market food is served up fresh and hot as always. The market occupies a fair slice of land and has quite a large car park too, although one time when we visited the car park was full and roadside parking there was like gold dust. You could park in Tesco and walk about 500 metres. Motorbike parking is less of a problem. As it’s quite new, it is currently one of the local hotspots. The various markets do pretty well at not clashing with each other, or are located a fair distance apart, like the weekend market on the opposite side of Phuket Town. So, what do we have at Chillva market? Well, first of all (on Thursday, Friday, Saturday) you have the market – lots of stalls selling clothes, arty things, and quite a lot of food stalls. It’s not a huge place like the weekend market (where you can easily lose your way) and is open air, so it’s not too hot after dark. There are also a fair number of restaurants, selling anything from burgers to Thai noodles, with outdoor tables,

The trendy bar area has rooftop seating for drinkers. plus a seating area for eating food from the stalls. Aside from the market area, there are some more permanent shops, mostly selling clothes. My daughter found one she likes selling earrings. There is a bit of nightlife here too. In fact, every time I have been there was some live music, usually just local musicians playing but on one visit there was what looked like a school talent show going on. There is also a little street of trendy bars where you can sit up on the roof with a drink and watch the scene below. When someone asks me which is the best market to visit, I find it hard to answer. These places are more for locals than tourists, but I’d say try this one and the Sunday walking street, or the weekend market if you want the big one. As a local, it’s good to have these options now, as a few years ago the weekend market was on its own.

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Shepherded in to learn New school building will boost children’s literacy programme

he Good Shepherd charity organisation has announced that they are almost ready to open their new Ban Ya Literacy Centre in Northern Phuket. The centre will help the charity continue its mission of providing education for the children of Burmese migrant workers, equivalent to what they would receive in Myanmar, and to empower them to return to their home country as a productive member of society. “On Monday September 19, we expect to parade 100-plus children, teachers, and others from the old school to the new facility. Father Joseph, Sister Euphrasia, and monks will facilitate a proper opening ceremony. You are welcome to join us,” stated a Good Shepherd newsletter. Located in a small village called Baan Ya, the new Literacy Centre is expected to accommodate up to 190 students and is situated adjacent to the Saint Euphrasia Learning Centre, which opened June 2014 with 60 students. The new eight-room building was built by landowner Khun Thanit, with additional funding from a number of individual and club sponsors. A recently awarded grant from Rotary International will provide sufficient funds to raise the level of resources available to support and enhance the literacy programme at the centre. “Almost two and a half years ago, 60

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COMMUNITY 19

The team from MontAzure met teachers and students at Kamala School to donate school supplies and toys. Photo: Supplied

MontAzure donates to Kamala School The Sisters and volunteers of The Good Shepherd Phuket provide education for Myanmar children. students were relocated from the Baan Bang Jo work camp school to the TN Guest House facility in Baan Ya along Rural Road 4024. Today that facility accommodates 100 children with a waiting list of 40. Our landlord, Khun Thanit, generously agreed to build a new, dedicated eight room facility for us to rent,” said the newsletter. Good Shepherd is appealing to the public for donations to further complete the fit-out of the new facility and they emphasise that 100 per cent of donations will go directly to the completion of the centre. Donations will help provide – a concrete-covered area for dining and learning in the back of the school, CCTV for classroom and building security, a smart TV, new computers, an administrative printer, play area, furnishings, fans and labour. “Students from the British International School volunteered to help clean the rooms on September 13 in preparation for the move. Financial donations

More than 100 children will move to the new Ban Ya Literacy Centre this month.

The new eight-room building will bolster The Good Shepherd’s literacy programme. of any size are gratefully appreciated to help us complete our project list.” Cash or goods donations can be made directly at the Good Shepherd Second Hand Store and Thrift Shop. The shop is located in a small business park called Baan Wana, at shop number 96 on the left. Wana Park is on Srisoonthorn Rd, between Heroine’s Monument and Cherng Talay, and the shop is open from 10am to 2pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday. For other donation details see: goodshepherdphuket.com

team from MontAzure Phuket recently visited Kamala School on the island’s west coast to donate toys and much needed school supplies to underprivileged pupils. The donation was part of an ongoing outreach programme initiated by MontAzure earlier this year, “The management and investors at MontAzure are committed to supporting the wider community in Kamala where our project is located,” said Setthaphol Boottho, Executive Director of MontAzure. “Our CSR initiatives focus on giving back to the island and preserving the natural environment that surrounds the development.” This commitment was clearly demonstrated by the participation of the entire MontAzure team, who joined a special event at the school, where they met children and teachers to present them with gifts. Mr Boottho led the delegation, joined by Jonathan Umali from Arch Capital Management, one of the project’s investors. MontAzure is a 455-rai luxury resort and residential lifestyle community located at Kamala Bay.

20 TRAVEL

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

The roads less travelled Tim Newton editor1@classactmedia.co.th

ith China to the north and India to the south, Nepal sits between two cultures and two geographies. Eight of the world’s 10 tallest mountains fringe the land-locked nation’s northern border with the Tibetan region of China. It’s a trekking and climbing paradise with plenty of astonishing geography that poses challenges for the locals and tourists. Getting to Nepal is easy, there are flights from many capitals including Bangkok, straight into the capital Kathmandu. From there, however, things get a bit more tricky as you have to navigate one of the most adventurous terrains in the world. You have plenty of local bus services with varying degrees of comfort and mechanical reliability. I’d vote for the many local small to mid-sized planes. I tried both. The Nepalese love their car and motorbike horns – you’ll hear plenty of them whilst getting around. Kathmandu is a city of some two million, not long into repairs following the traumatic earthquake in April 2015. There remains a lot of negotiating between the Nepal Government and NGOs on exactly how the world’s generosity should be spent. In the meantime

many of the historic sites of old Kathmandu – the palaces, the town squares, the ancient temples – remain either closed, ignored, propped up with bits of timber and, generally, unloved. The Nepalese people are a hybrid of the cultures and countries around them and, even inside Nepal, there are a lot of smaller regions and tribes who, kept apart by geography, haven’t blended together as much as they would have with better transport and connections over the decades. The food, too, is equalPokhara is temperate and a mere 800 metres above sea level. The Himalayas behind are over 8,000 metres high. ly diverse – certainly lots of Indian influences with curries and zone and T-shirt. You feel like you can much, the only way is up in Nepal. spicy dishes. I had no problem finding Temples are poised atop hills with hun- reach out and touch these soaring sumexcellent food in most areas and didn’t mits which draw adventure tourists dreds of steps to climb to reach them have any tummy problems during the and the trekking will have you heading and the truly ambitious to their slopes trip (I was prepared for anything!). The upwards over some of the thousands, in ever-increasing numbers each year. Nepalese speak English as a second Locally, the Nepalese are doing their yes, thousands, of hills to enjoy the language so communication was relabest to find sustainable ways for the views beyond. Most of the lower-area tively easy and the locals were always world to visit this unique attraction, trekking will be in moderate to hot eager to help. whilst at the same time keeping it safe temperatures. It gets colder in winter If you like climbing things then and accessible. of course but still within the limits of Chitwan is a national park in the you’ve come to the right place. Pretty a normal wardrobe. It’s only when you southern region where the jagged, get a bit more ambitious and look to snowy peaks give way to the flatter the Himalayan mountains you’re going agricultural plains. The humidity kicks to need specialist guides, clothing and in as your proximity to the Indian borprobably a lot of preparation. Highpoint’s (of the trip, not the land- der gets a lot closer. Chitwan is where scape) were Pokhara and Chitwan, on a you go to enjoy the past Royal family’s hunting grounds. But no longer are tourist triangle from Kathmandu with plenty of travel and accommodation op- the animals hunted, now you can see elephants, deer, crocodiles, exotic birds tions. Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, is also a popular destination in the and rhinoceros in the wild from a lazy canoe floating down the rivers or from same region. on top of an elephant (I don’t condone Pokhara is a lake town where it’s elephant trekking but it’s still very pleasant at 30°C in the summer as you popular in this region.) stroll around the area or take one of Nepal is a step off the regular tourthe many boat trips around the Phewa ist map. It will challenge and surprise Lake. Around the region are a lot of you, either with its stunning geograadventure and eco-tours: para-sailing, phy, or some of the teeth-rattling bus zip-lines, trekking, spelunking and rides you’re going to have to endure if white-water rafting. you decide to get around on the cheap. And the backdrop to all this, as you cast your eyes upward, are the jagged Tim Newton travelled to Nepal with peaks of the central Himalayas. You’re looking at the top of the world, from the Thai Airways who fly to Kathmandu from Bangkok every day. comfort of your moderate temperature

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EDUCATION 21

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

The six adventurers from BISP get ready to climb into the rainforest canopy.

Scuba diving among the tropical sea-life was one of the highlights of the trip.

BISP adventurers go to Indonesia Anjalee Syangbo editor@classactmedia.co.th

ntrepid British International School students Cassandra Sherlock, Anjalee Syangbo, Kieran Teo, Raymond Windsor, Siamy Yapp and their teacher Ms Jo Newton, recently returned from a two-week adventure on Buton Island in Indonesia. The trip was a chance for them to see first hand the work of Operation Wallacea, an organisation dedicated to biological and conservation management research programmes all over the world. Student Anjalee Syangbo wrote this travelogue about the experience: The smallest plane I’ve ever been on landed gently at Bau Bau airport on Buton Island, where airport security consisted of a man pushing a trolley of rucksacks from the plane to the small outbuilding and checking our luggage tags as we caught out first sight of the beautiful, hot island.

Students took part in several team sports during the Summit. Photos by Mike Opaliski.

We walked out to a line of cars that looked ready to take us to the starting line of the Amazing Race! Two hours later we arrived at the village, where we stayed the night in local-style houses and ate traditional Indonesian food at their community centre. The first activity of the expedition was “canopy access”, and this was definitely a favourite. It consisted of climbing a strangler fig tree that was about 148 feet high, which allowed us to see where 40 per cent of all life exists – the rainforest canopy. Next was our trek to our jungle camp-site. Thanks to a good night’s sleep in the local homes of the Indonesians, we managed to pull through an incredibly tiring trek to Bala. In Bala, we did a jungle survival training, which consisted of building a water-resistant shelter, creating booby traps to catch animals and cooking eggs in palm leaves on a fire that we started ourselves. Our daily tasks also included surveying organisms such as reptiles,

Students also performed traditional dances.

Satree students attend BKK summit Mike Opaliski editor@classactmedia.co.th

n early September, students and staff from Satree Phuket School’s Cambridge Program travelled to Bangkok to participate in the Thailand Education Hub Cambridge School Summit 2016. This year’s summit was hosted at Yothinburana School’s beautiful new Bangkok campus, with a total of four schools from across Thailand attending the event, including Narinkun School and Phichairattanakhan School. Following the opening ceremony performances, students and guests heard a speech from Mr Teerakiat Jareonsettasin, Thailand’s Deputy Minister of Education. Throughout the day students participated in a number of activities such as traditional Thai dances, academic showcases, a student speak-out forum and team sporting events. The first day of the summit wrapped up with an evening dinner party, with everyone in attendance taking the chance to pay their respect to two upcoming retirees, Mr Nattawat Pathathairattanasarani, Vice Director of Satree Phuket School and Mr Manote Wangthakul, Vice Director of @thephuketnews

Yothinburana School. Students’ talents were also on display at the Cambridge Summit Night Dinner Party with several of Satree Phuket School’s Year Nine girls performing a number of songs on stage. On the second day of the summit students from all four schools had an opportunity to visit the Erawan Museum in Bangkok. Next, students spent a few hours exploring the open-air Museum of Ancient Siam, learning about Thailand’s cultural heritage while taking in the sights of some of the country’s most historically significant structures. Over the course of the summit students made new friends from Cambridge Programs across the Kingdom. In addition, students were given the opportunity to showcase their talents and learn, not only about Thailand’s cultural past, but also about what it will take for them to be successful in today’s world. Satree Phuket School will be hosting next year’s Thailand Education Hub Cambridge School Summit and the school will be striving to make everyone in attendance feel welcomed and ensure that they enjoy their stay here on the island.

bats, butterflies and mammals. Each day was filled with tackling nature and in the process we developed a new type of sport – “mud skiing”. This was when it had rained so heavily the day or night before, and all of the trails were filled with mud so in order to walk down, we needed to slide down each slope. At the end of our active day, we would finish with an interesting lecture about tomorrow’s survey. One of the highlights of the Bala camp was the sleeping situation: Each of us fell asleep to the swaying of our hammocks within a covered tent. After marching from Bala, we arrived at our new our base camp and after spending the night, we continued on to the marine site in Bau Bau. It seemed a blessing after a week in the jungle, with functioning toilets, showers and air-conditioning. But, I speak for us all when I say that Bala certainly had more character and exclusivity than any ordinary motel.

There, we met a great many researchers and budding marine biologists. It was a thoroughly fascinating experience, for some in our number learned to dive, whilst others honed their marine surveying skills. I struggle to recall a week that seemingly passed in a heartbeat, but the final night was unforgettable. We set up a gargantuan camp-fire, while local and international music played in the background, all this amidst party games and incessant chatter. Many of us, who are unlikely to ever meet again, bonded in this moment, and it was heartbreaking to leave the next day. Our six sombre faces told the story as packed into a car on our final day, we were all very sorry to be leaving Indonesia behind and going back to face reality. Aptly sad music played in the background on our flight as our furrowed frowns and heavy hearts were carried away by a propeller plane, off into the sunset and away from paradise.

22 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Members of the ‘Run to Give’ management committee from three Starwood Hotels in Phuket took to the stage to announce this year’s event.

LE MERIDIEN PHUKET ANNOUNCES RUN TO GIVE 2016 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Asia Pacific announced the date for their annual charity ‘Run To Give’ event at a press conference held at Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort last Friday (Sept 9). This year’s event will be held on Oct 16 and hundreds of runners are expected to join in the fun to raise money for a good cause. The event is organised in conjunction with The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort and The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa.

Live 89.5’s Chris Howson (left) talks with Ravi Chandran, Senior Vice President of Banyan Tree and MD of Laguna Phuket.

Sriram Kailasam, General Manager of Banyan Tree Phuket.

JUNIOR GOLFER’S BATTLE IT OUT AT THE FALDO SERIES THAILAND CHAMPIONSHIP AT LAGUNA

Paul Wilson, Assistant Vice President and Group Golf Director of Laguna Golf.

The inaugural Faldo Series Thailand Championship – South, was staged at Laguna Golf Phuket, over Sept 8 to 11. Junior golfers from all over Thailand, India, Malaysia and Singapore competed in the 54-hole, three-round event. Each age-group's gross winner earned themselves a place in the 11th Faldo Series Asia Grand Final, to be hosted by Sir Nick Faldo at Laguna Lang Co in Danang, Vietnam, in March 2017. The Phuket News and Live 89.5 were proud sponsors of this event.

From left: Akanksha, Joan and Dominique read the latest issue of The Phuket News

From left: Susie, Christina, Laura, Jenny, Valerie, Linda, Akanksha, Joan and Dominique

PIWC MONTHLY MEET AND GREET AND CENTRAL FESTIVAL Members of the Phuket International Women’s Club held their monthly meet and greet at Starbucks at Central Festival last Thursday (Sept 8). They enjoyed a coffee and a chat as well as catching up on the latest news from around the island with the latest copies of The Phuket News. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ISLAND SCENE 23

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

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From left: Alex Lotz, Ian Lancaster and Graham Dewe.

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From left: Ian Lancaster, Max Chin and Sreevalsan V Balakrishnan.

Members of La Confrerie de la Chaine de la Rotisseurs in Phuket and guests.

From left: Philipp Seipelt and Brian Connelly.

FINE DINING AND FUN AT ANGSANA LAGUNA PHUKET’S BODEGA & GRILL Members and guests of La Confrerie de La Chaine des Rotisseurs gastronomic association enjoyed an evening of fine dining and conversation at Angsana’s Bodega & Grill restaurant on Sept 6. The association hosts regular dinners featuring the finest international food and drink from around the world.

Chef Daniel Isberg (centre) and guests get ready to kick-off the party in Cherng Talay.

TAPAS, TUNES AND A TUK-TUK BAR AT PHUKET GOURMET CATERING LAUNCH PARTY

A DJ provided tunes for the evening.

Chef Daniel Isberg hosted an evening of gourmet tapas, signature drinks, a tuk-tuk bar, funky tunes and great vibes to celebrate the opening of his latest venture last Friday (Sept 9). Phuket Gourmet Catering, located in Cherng Talay, is able to provide high-end catering and drinks for any event on the island, whether a yacht cruise, wedding, private function or corporate event.

@thephuketnews

24 EVENTS

FRI

16 SEP

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

SUN

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

18 SEP All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet

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

The Reboot & Re-energize your Body & Mind Workshop

WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY

Come join us for our WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong from 12pm-Late! Indulge in All You Can Eat BBQ Pork Ribs, Chicken and Sides for ONLY 395 BAHT! Our BBQ is famous at Two Chefs! Come try us out and enjoy our mouthwatering pork ribs, flavor-bursting chicken and more! Join us for Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band! Come for the FOOD - Stay for the FUN at Two Chefs!!! RESERVE Your Table Now Online at bit.ly/TwoChefsReservations Check out more details on our website at bit.ly/TwoChefsEvents.

This inspirational program is designed to educate, motivate and understand hormonal balancing, the cortisol connection, stress reduction and much more. Full program THB 22,000 net p.p. (excludes accommodation). One off classes from THB 900. Limited numbers. Reservations and special accommodation rates contact linda.overman@marriotthotel.com or 076 338 000 ext. 3752.

SAT

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

17 SEP

All Day Breakfast at Cafe Siam

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

Sunday Gourmet Brunch At Bodega and Grill

Bellini After Hours

Chalong nightlife will never be the same with the launch of Bellini After Hours, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday only, dance the night away with the Bellini Band and DJ from 10pm till 2am. Pizza available all night. Join us for our opening weekend starting this Friday night, remember to like us on Facebook to get a free drink. More info on Facebook - Bellini After Hours.

Cricket league every Sunday @ Alan Cooke Ground, Thalang

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

Sunday Tapas

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

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

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

Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY

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

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach

Live Sports at Expat Hotel

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

Mussels night @ Shakers

Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice of either roast beef, chicken, loin of pork or leg of lamb served with roast and boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Only B350 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See: otools-phuket.com.

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

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

A CASUAL SUNDAY BRUNCH BY THE POOLSIDE

A Night at the Opera 2016

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

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

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

Help make a difference by Eating a MacBurger

Donate THB 300 to enjoy our delicious homemade hamburger served with french fries and any soft drink. Proceed goes towards supporting Mac Rosen for his rehabilitation and physiotherapy needs. Bring your friends and families to our burger party! Sunday Sep 18 at Anthem Wakepark, Cherng Talay. Details: rebecca.lek@ anthemwakepark.com or call 082 22 11 773.

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

MON

prizes, all in aid of a good cause. All proceeds will go towards a full scholarship for an underprivileged local Thai student to attend UWCT next year. Ticket donation 3,500 THB. Book your tickets now at: uwcthailandgala. org This event is proudly sponsored by The Phuket News.

19 SEP OUTTA THE BOX improv, interactive fun for all!

All you can eat BBQ night

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

WED

21 SEP

All you can eat BBQ Ribs night

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

THU

22 SEP

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

Phuket Bussiness Dinner with the British Ambassador

One of the successful Phuket Business Dinner series. Attendance costs B890 per person, including inter-buffet and soft drinks. RSVP : to urosesri@bccthai.com Tel : 02 651 5350. Amari Phuket is offering a special room rate for Thursday, September 22 at B3,500 net for superior room with breakfast. RSVP: pawinee.p@amari. com. Tel: 076 298 044. This event is sponsored by Paul Poole, Meetinthailand, Regus and The Phuket News. BCCT, Amari Phuket Patong Beach, 02 651 5350.

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Join us at the Green Man Pub and Restaurant, Thursdays 6:30 to 8pm. Interactive classes and fun in the wonderful art of improvisation! First we train, then we put what we’ve learned into action! First session free, after that only 150 THB. Joel Adams for Theatrix on 093 649 0066 or email: theatrixphuket@gmail.com

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

FRI

23 SEP

Boost your self-confidence, your speaking and social skills

Learn acting with Joel and Theatrix! Classes held at HeadStart International School: Saturday 1 to 2:30pm: Acting Basics for kids. Saturday 2:30 to 4pm: Acting Basics for teens and adults. Saturday 4 to 5:30pm: Acting Shakespeare for teens and adults. 350 THB per session. Contact: Joel Adams on 093 649 0066 or email: theatrixphuket@gmail.com.

TUE

27 SEP

Public Speaking made easier

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

SUN

9 OCT

Rock Night at Two Chefs Karon

Do you love current and classic rock? Come rock with us at Two Chefs Karon on Friday September 23rd from 8pm-Late for our ROCK NIGHT Event! Our Famous Two Chefs House Bands will be rocking the night away! Do you enjoy mouthwatering Pork Ribs and perfectly seasoned Cajun Chicken? Don’t worry! We’re offering ALL YOU CAN EAT for Only 395 Baht! Are you a singer? Join in on the fun! We’ll have Open Mic All Night Long! Prizes, Music, Food and Fun! What are you waiting for? Don’t Miss Out! BOOK Your Table NOW At bit.ly/ReserveTwoChefs More Info At bit.ly/TwoChefsEvents.

SAT

24 SEP

12th Mai Khao Turtle Fun Run and Mini Marathon 2016

The 12th Turtle Fun Run: Run Across the Sea Mini Marathon and Fun Run will take place on 9 October 2016, at 6:15 am at Phuket Gateway. Proceeds benefit the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation. There will be a 10.2 km mini marathon (350 THB), a 5.3 km Fun Run (300 THB), and a 2.5 km Family Run (1000 THB/family). Registration at the JW Marriott Mai Khao concierge from 3-8th October from 10:00-17:00, or the day of at Phuket Gateway 4:30-5:30 am. Contact Kittipan: 0897738830.Sponsored by The Phuket News and Live 89.5.

WED

THU

24 NOV

Ocean Marina

OCEAN MARINA PATTAYA BOATSHOW 2016 24 to 27 November. At the Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Pattaya. Demonstrating Pattaya’s image as one of Asia’s leading seaside resort hubs with outstanding facilities and the capability to host large scale international events. The show will stimulate tourism, as well as marine industry and related businesses such as boat building, boat sales, boat charter, boat parts and accessories, boat services, water sports and marina based property sales. Tel: 02 661 6800 and ask for Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show, info@oceanmarinapattayaboatshow.com

EVERY DAY

23 NOV

Inaugural Benefit Gala 2016

Celebrate Phuket International Academy (PIA) becoming United World College Thailand (UWCT) in an evening filled with good food, free-flow drinks, live music, DJ, raffles and

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

Phuket International Sportfishing Tournament (PIST) 2016

Registration is on the 23th November 2016 from

La Gritta’s New Discovery Menu

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

26 TIME OUT

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York Across 1. What was Spike Milligan’s real first name? 2. The saliva of which bird is used in the making of bird’s nest soup? 3. Which Mel Brooks’ film was a parody of 1930s Universal horror movies? 4. Which American singer died in Paris in July 1971? 5. In Roman Times, what was a Gladius? Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

52. Gym unit 55. Car parts 60. Apple picker 61. Go on permanent vacation 62. Marvel Comics character 63. Mermaid’s home 64. Experts 65. Fails to be

24. State of mind 25. Coarse 1. Safe, on board 26. High wave 5. Money 27. Spicy cuisine 11. Crude 28. Lofty 14. Big blow 29. Asian wild 15. Fantastic animal 16. Ryan’s “Love 30. Some engines Story” co-star 31. Mountain nymph 17. They have leaves 33. With regard to all year long 34. Wear a gown to 20. Lose oomph a picnic, perhaps 21. Roughly 35. Bit of sweat Down 22. Bring in the 36. Bothers sheaves 38. Asteroid 1. Seasons 23. Early pulpit discovered in 2. Etna output 25. Achievers 1898 28. Capital on the Red 3. With grace 39. Still-life piece 4. One engaged in, River 43. Gentle suffix 30. Sacred scrolls 44. Contract 5. Pack animal 32. Fascinated by 45. Has a yen 6. People 33. Charioteer 46. Plunder 7. Creme-filled 34. Sash 47. Skin problem snack 37. Hunting dog 48. Horse packages 40. Mudder’s fodder 8. Easy chair site 9. Drink from a dish 50. Pass over 41. Sales lure 51. Smart 10. Pipe joint 42. Watered-down 53. “___ go bragh!” 43. Music consisting 11. Rajah’s wife 54. “Looky here!” of a single vocal 12. Place to exchange rings 56. Car accessory part 57. Heart color 13. Strands 44. Range rovers 58. Sat down at 18. Mongolian 45. Masters Wendy’s expanse 48. Wren or hen 59. Seven, in 49. Provide a top to 19. These may be ancient Rome fine 50. Rigging support

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) Terence; 2) Swift, or Swiftlet; 3) Young Frankenstein; 4) Jim Morrison; 5) A sword

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

This week in history ■■ Sept 16, 1620 Pilgrims set sail from England on the Mayflower.

per cent increase in Google searches for traffic jams implies a 0.4% increase in traffic jams.

seafarers have been kidnapped by pirates in 2016 so far compared to 15 people in all of 2015.

■■ Sept 17, 1908 The Wright Flyer flown by Orville Wright, with Lt Thomas Selfridge as passenger, crashes, killing Selfridge. He becomes the first airplane fatality.

to 90 times a day is how often the average person swears.

■■ Sept 18, 2007 Buddhist monks join anti-government protesters in Myanmar, starting what some call the Saffron Revolution.

150

■■ Sept 19, 2006 The Thai military stages a coup in Bangkok. The Constitution is revoked and martial law is declared.

minutes of exercise a week saves a person an average of US$500 a year in medical costs compared to those who don’t exercise.

■■ Sept 20, 1946 The first Cannes Film Festival is held, having been delayed seven years due to World War II.

1 trillion dollars is how much the US Government spends on incarceration each year. Source: Uberfacts

■■ Sept 21, 1972 Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos places the country under martial law, marking the beginning of his authoritarian rule.

Man’s best friend at sunset, Kalim. Photo by Michael Pohl Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket? Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

■■ Sept 22, 480 BC Battle of Salamis: The Greek fleet under Themistocles defeats the Persian fleet under Xerxes I. Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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Jobs

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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', Chinese language newspaper 'Puji Doa Xin Wen', 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’.

Graphic Designer

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

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

Applicants must have:

● Excellent skills with InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator and other graphic design software

● Min. 1 year experience in design and layout of newspapers or magazines

● Good English (written and spoken)

We offer:

● Competitive salary ● Friendly work environment ● Excellent progress opportunity and job security Interested applicants are invited to apply in person or send application with full resume indicating qualifications and experience, expected salary and recent photo to: thephuketnews.com/job.php

Class Act Media Co., Ltd.

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

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Trades & Services

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ADVERTISING SERVICES

CABLE TV SERVICES

CATERING SERVICES

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

IMMIGRATION SERVICES

EDUCATION

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

LEGAL SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

MOVING SERVICES

OTHER

STORAGE Reserve Your Storage Space

Call 076 29 29 09

or visit mystorageasia.com

 Sizes to Suit all Budgets  Personal & Business Storage  Motorcycle Storage  Left Luggage Service  We Sell Boxes  Storage Insurance Inclusive

Secure, Clean & Cost Effective Self Storage Jungceylon Shopping Center, Patong, Phuket

TATTOO

FISHING SERVICE

TRAINING

HOME DECORATION

TRAINING

MUSICAL

ADVERTISE HERE

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Buy&Sell JOBS Full Time Maid

Full time maid required for villa in Kata. Only 2 adult inhabitants. Salary negotiable. More if can speak English and drive Car/Motorbike. Nice bedroom with ensuite. 12000, Nicholas, nicksamson2301@gmail.com, 062 772 1212.

ACTIVITIES, GROUPS Free Tiya’s Hammocks campaign

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

BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE Steel boat for sale

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

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Business For Sale

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

Restaurant for sale in Rawai

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

Looking for a Partner Investor

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

Restaurant set up for sale

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

CAR FOR SALE Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8G VVTI

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

sa nt e g r

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Honda Jazz 2009 1500cc Auto

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

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

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MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE New loft trailer

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

MOVING SERVICES Looking for Moving Company?

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

REAL ESTATE SERVICES Phuket real estate tour

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

WEBSITES, IT For Sale: hoteldealsphuket.com

PHD has 125,000 pages indexed in Google and an average of 22,000 page views per month! See stats image. Also see the selling points on the link below. Quick sale: 33.000B!, Mark, mr.m.hopkins@gmail.com

PROPERTY FOR SALE House for Sale

3 bed, 2 bath, living/dining, Farang & Thai kitchens. Back/both sides under cover. Water fall/ relax area. B.B.Q area under cover/car port. 4 air con/7 fans. Very private, close to all services, 500 meters from Heroine monument. 4.9 mil. o.n.o. Email randyalltime@gmail.com, Contact Randy.

Beautiful Land in Rawai For Sale

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

PROPERTY FOR SALE Outstanding Beach Front Pool Villa

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

LAND NEAR WATERFALL FOR SALE

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

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

Total area 226,66 SQM including terrace 41,25 Sqm, 50 meters from the beach, 3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms, Owner purchased at THB 22.5 million, now reduced to only THB 11.5 million for quick sales. MP + 66 (0) 89 814 1458.

Modern home office for sale

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

COMMUNITY

Prime Land near Natai Beach

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

Kay McDonnell

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

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PROPERTY FOR RENT Villas & Apts Rent-Chalong

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

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Waterfront Condominium

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

House for Sale

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

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

MAI KHAO LAND

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

PROPERTY FOR RENT Attractive 3 bed single house

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

Kathu Condo for Sale/Rent

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

Two condos for sale/rent

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

2 BDR Bungalow, Nai Harn Beach

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

Office/Shop for Rent

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

New Sea View Villa

34 PROPERTY

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‘Toy’, 15, dominates at inaugural Faldo Series GOLF

The Phuket News editor@thephuketnews.com

apat “Toy” Paramacharoenroj recovered brilliantly from a nightmare start to claim victory in the inaugural Faldo Series Thailand Championship - South 2016. One of the pre-tournament favourites, Toy, a 15-year-old two-handicapper and member of the BISP Golf Academy at British International School, Phuket (BISP), ran up a triplebogey seven on the opening hole followed by a bogey-four at the short second in the first round at Laguna Golf Phuket. Displaying commendable skill and mental strength, the Laguna Golf Phuket member then proceeded to play the remaining 52 holes in 12-under-par. Bouncing back from his early disaster, Toy signed for an even-par 71 in the first round of what was the ninth leg of the record-breaking 2016-17 Faldo Series Asia season. He followed that with a 68 on day two before closing out the tournament with a stylish 66, the low round of the tournament which attracted entries from all over Thailand, India, Malaysia and Singapore. With a three-day aggregate of eight-under 205, Toy topped the leaderboard in the Boys’ Under-16 category. He also led the way in the overall

The Phuket Rugby 10s is one of five Phuket events/ businesses to be shortlisted. Photo: Rob Brewer

Five Phuket entries make shortlist for SPIA Asia 2016 Toy bounced back after a disappointing start to take the Faldo Series title. standings in the R&A World Amateur Golf Ranking event, earning himself an exemption into the forth-coming Singha Phuket Open at Laguna Golf Phuket, part of the All Thailand Golf Tour. BISP Golf Academy Head Coach Oliver Bates said, “As part of the BISP Golf Academy, Toy is almost on a professionallevel training regime, combining his studies with three hours practice per day during the week, and then playing on the course all weekend. “At the Faldo Series tournament at Laguna Golf Phuket, Toy showed great mental strength as well as great ability, quickly moving past the triple bogey on the first hole, and a bogey on the next, to birdie the next hole – he never looked back from that point. BISP student Toy, “After the first two holes, I was not think-

ing about what had just happened, as there were another 52 holes to birdie – and I did on the third. The next shot is all that matters, and every day I got better,” he said. This year marked the first time that Thailand has hosted two Faldo Series Asia qualifiers with Putt Sridama triumphing in the Faldo Series Thailand Championship - North at Watermill Golf and Gardens in May. Putt will now be joined by Toy in the 11th Faldo Series Asia Grand Final, to be hosted by Sir Nick Faldo at Laguna Lăng Cô in Danang, Central Vietnam, in March, 2017. Also winning through to the Grand Final via the Phuket qualifier were Thais Phaiboon Phumkliang and Phisitkhwan Pooratanaopa, Indian Varun Parikh and Malaysian Audrey Tan. Paul Wilson, Laguna Golf

Assistant Vice President/Group Golf Director, said: “What a fantastic three days of competitive golf we enjoyed. “As part of the Banyan Tree Group, Laguna Golf shares a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility. Working with like-minded partners, we are honoured to have Sir Nick as our Laguna Golf Ambassador as we develop aspiring youths, give back to the game and elevate golf to another level. “Our team at Laguna Golf is proud to have the association with Sir Nick Faldo and his Faldo Series. To welcome such amazing young talents has been our pleasure and we are already looking forward to next year’s tournament,” he said.

AWARDS A T O TA L OF F I V E Phuket events/sports businesses have made the final shortlists and will be competing against the best in Thailand and Asia for a prestigious SPIA Asia 2016 award at a ceremony to be held in Bangkok early next month. The Laguna Marathon has been shortlisted in a total of two categories; Best Amateur Sports Event of the Year in Thailand and Best Mass Participation Event of the Year, the BISP Swimming Academy for Best Sports

Academy of the Year in Thailand, while the Laguna Phuket Triathlon and Phuket Rugby 10s have also been shortlisted for Best Amateur Sports Event of the Year in Thailand. Open to 17 Asian countries SPIA Asia 2016 is recognising the achievements of the sports industry in a total of 19 distinct categories (four Thai, 12 Asian, one International, two Recognition Awards), both professional and community focused. An encouraging 208 entries were received with 161 making the final cut before the judges vote on October 3, 2016.

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

Annissa makes Asian Tour Finals:

Following her win at the final-leg of the Flow Tour Thailand Qualifiers at the Flow House in Bangkok last Saturday (Sept 10), Annissa Flynn has qualified to compete in the Asian Tour Finals to be held in Sunway Lagoon, Malaysia today and tomorrow (Sept 16-17). Photo: DKTD Video Production

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Run: #1598: Saturday Sept 17 Run Start Time: 4pm Hares: Tequila Slapper, Fungus Location: Pa Khlok - Phuket Airpark Directions: At the Heroines Monument circle turn East [4027] towards Pa Khlok, after approximately 6.4 kilometres turn right into Phuket Airpark. Hare Advisory: Permission to be here stipulates absolutely no driving on any grassy areas! Hash Bus Pickup Schedule: Patong @ Expat Hotel: 2:30pm Kamala @ Black Cat’s Bar: 3pm More info: phuket-hhh.com

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Farewell to a legend Japanese centre-back Yusuke Sato ends his Phuket FC career FOOTBALL Matt Pond editor3@classactmedia.co.th

huket FC’s longest standing player and captain of three years, Yusuke Sato, is finally hanging up his boots as far as Thai football goes and saying farewell to the team. Having first signed for the club back in February 2013, when Phuket Provincial Administration Office (OrBorJor) chief Paiboon Upatising was club president, Sato has seen the club go through several identity overhauls and coaching changes. But now at the age of 34, the centre-back from the Kumamoto Prefecture of Japan is finally calling it a day and returning home in the hope he can still get first-team action with a Japanese club. Speaking to The Phuket News this week, Sato said that he feels he has done as much as he can for the now Andaman Dragon, and having made 124 appearances, that his time here is finally up. “I want to return to Japan

Yusuke Sato started his Phuket FC career back in Feb 2013, the longest serving player. now and play in my home country. I’m 34, and although it’s quite old for a centre-back I should still be able to get signed by a Japanese club, although I’m not sure at what level that will be,” he said. “I didn’t talk to Phuket FC’s management about signing a new contract for next season. I explained to them that I wanted a new challenge. They accepted my explanation,” he added. Sato made his mark as a

Phuket FC legend along with fellow centre-back Sylvestre Nenebi Tra, and has been a vital part of the team in every season he has played. He was often among the goal-scorers, and in fact, was the team’s top scorer in the 2014 season when they played in the Toyota League 1 scoring six goals. “That was a great season for me personally, but for the club it was a fight for survival from relegation towards the

end of the season,” he said. Sato went on to say that he has both good and bad memories with the club, some relate to how seasons finished. “I have a lot of good memories from playing with Phuket FC, but the best has to be in the 2015 season and we played against Nakhon Pathom United FC. “This game was my 100th appearance for the club and many friends celebrated this

occasion with me. This is one moment I will never forget,” he said. “But there were also some bad moments too, not so much bad, I should really say disappointing. And the most disappointing moment was being relegated to Division 2 at the end of the 2015 season,” he added. Sato had initially planned to play for Ang Thong United that season, however, he changed his mind at the very last minute and returned to play under the new president MaAnn Samran. Fans are sure to be sad at Sato’s departure, and he also feels the same way, but he wanted The Phuket News to pass on his thanks to the club and the fans. “I want say thank you to the Phuket FC fan clubs, they always gave me so much support. Yes, I am leaving Phuket, but please don’t forget me. I will never forget you too. “My four years with Phuket FC have been amazing and they are years I will certainly not forget. Thank you, and good luck for the future Phuket FC,” Sato said.

1Bar close the gap on Wet Dreams in PPL POOL FOLLOWING A 9-2 WIN at home to Wet Dreams Bar, 1Bar last Thursday (Sept 8) moved to within four points of the Patong Pool League table toppers. Having started off the season slowly, 1Bar are gradually picking up momentum and appear to be big contenders for this year’s title. Meanwhile, Dirty Nellies played away to Natalie and suffered a shock 7-4 defeat. In that match’s doubles round

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there was nearly a 7-ball which had earlier been predicted by this writer. However, that prediction was made purely due to a new rule that has been introduced for those being 7-balled. Readers will have to wait the see the consequences of such an incident, but it’s sure to get more people wanting see more 7-ball games in the Patong Pool League. In the 7-balled game, Scott and Andy from Dirty Nellies won without even having to go to the table, as

Jamie from Natalie Bar broke, cleared the table and then saw one of his opponent’s balls potted along with the black, thus losing him the game. Elsewhere, Ting Tong won their game 7-4 over Genius, Champs Bar had a big 9-2 win over Sports Bar, while Martin Swiss had a good 7-4 win at home to M&M Bar. It was Simon and Oil who picked up 11 points this week having been set to play league drop-outs Amigo. Any new bars interested

Patong Pool League Table Wet Dreams 1Bar Ting Tong Champs Genius Dirty Nellies Sports Natalie Martin Swiss Simon & Oils M&M Amigo 0

105 101 98 91 89 85 82 79 72 67 55 0

in joining or just want to try a friendly please contact Scott on 0817289509.

It’s certainly not all beer bellies over the tables in the Patong Pool League.

SPORT 37

Laguna seal T20 victory CRICKET I T WA S T H A L A N G’S (TCT) turn to take on the Laguna (LCC) in last Sunday’s (Sept 11) round of the Outrigger T20. LCC won the toss and elected to bat first with WY Bashir going to the crease with Hico Mcdonald. Opening the bowling for TCT was Mudi Rehman who soon had WY Bashir edged through to the wicket keeper. Then came Alex Runhaar, while Morgan Odendaal came on to bowl. Unfortunately there were a number of dropped chances, but eventually another edge off Rehman was taken by the wicket keeper, sending Runhaar back to the Pavilion. Ali Khan then took to the crease, but he made a loose shot and was caught in cover. Up next was Rishi Sandarangani who went cheaply, caught and bowled by Craig Murphy. Laguna were shaky with four wickets for 57 runs, but S Kandolkar was able to maintain valuable partnerships with McDonald, Sameer Khan and Iqbal Malik. A f t e r 20 ove r s LCC reached a respectable 155 runs. TCT openers Carl Baxter and David Thomas looked comfortable. But Dasharn Vaiganker got both with LBWs. Rehman was knocking the ball around the ground, scoring at will. But the next batsman didn’t hang around for long, and when Mudi holed out in the outfield for 24 runs, TCT were starting to fade. Roshan Jayasuriya was able to keep the runs moving along, but once he lost his wicket TCT were under too much pressure and only managed 101 runs, handing Laguna the win. LCC have now made it two wins in a row, while TCT have suffered two losses.

38 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Racing only half the story

Singapore GP could be outdone by commercial rights talks FORMULA ONE BOX OF NEUTRALS

Michael Lamonato michael@boxofneutrals.com

he 2016 Singapore Grand Prix, set on the streets of one of the world’s largest business capitals, will be raced against a background of financial intrigue as the sport comes to grips with its US$8 billion commercial rights sale. Speculation hit fever pitch that the rights to commercially exploit Formula One were changing hands on Sept 4 at the Italian Grand Prix, and the rumour was confirmed three days later by soon-to-be-owner Liberty Media Corporation. Liberty, which itself is owned by billionaire American businessman John Malone, bought an 18.7 per cent share of the commercial rights on the spot with a view of taking 100% control by March next year. “I greatly admire Formula One as a unique global sports entertainment franchise attract-

Chase Carey (left) seen here with media mogul Rupert Murdoch. Photo: Kevin Winter/AFP ing hundreds of millions of fans each season from all around the world,” said incoming chairman Chase Carey. “I see great opportunity to help Formula One continue to develop and prosper for the benefit of the sport, fans, teams and investors alike.” Carey has recently stepped

down as vice-chairman at 21st Century Fox, where he was tipped to replace Rupert Murdoch by the media mogul himself. The high-flying American’s presence in the paddock has led to uncomfortable questions about long-time F1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone’s ongoing role lead-

ing the sport. Ecclestone has been a pivotal figure in Formula One’s growth from enthusiast sport into global phenomenon, and he has only gone so far as to say the owners want him for three years – but commentators have suggested he may last only as long as it takes for

new management to settle in. Liberty has flagged its intention to define its F1 stewardship by boosting its availability to the digital market and expanding its portfolio of sponsors, and teams will be offered a stake in the new-look business. The thrashing out of a handover deal will be of mere academic interest to the sport’s on-track protagonists, however, when they commence battle in the Formula One’s original night race. Nico Rosberg has had things all his own way since the midseason break with victories in Belgium and Italy, reducing championship leader Lewis Hamilton’s advantage to just two points with seven rounds remaining. Hamilton, however, will point to his back-of-grid start at Spa and clutch problems off the line in Monza as extenuating circumstances for his third and second-place finishes. The Briton could also rely on his superior record at Marina Bay – two wins compared to Rosberg’s best result of second place in the inaugural 2008

event – to aid him this weekend, but Mercedes’s woeful performance at the street circuit last year will make him less confident. The Mercedes cars, otherwise the stand-outs of the 2015 field, could qualify just fifth and sixth here last year, and Rosberg, the team’s sole finisher, came home fourth behind both Ferraris and Red Bull Racing’s Daniel Ricciardo. Mercedes put its 2015 problems down to failing to master the Pirelli tyres around the hot and twisty track, but it would take a brave man to bet against the Silver Arrows ameliorating its shortcomings in the preceding 12 months. But now in 2016, even the prospect of a circuit that might neutralise Mercedes advantage sufficient to bring Ferrari and especially Red Bull Racing into victory contention is enough to have Formula One fans licking their lips with anticipation. Tune in to Live89.5 every Saturday at 9am to hear Box of Neutrals talk everything F1 and a whole lot more.

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

SPORT 39

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Four things we learnt in the Premier League M anchester City are now the only team to have preserved their 100-per-cent record in the Premier League following their win against Manchester United last weekend, while Chelsea lost theirs and

FOOTBALL

Man United are a work in progress After winning their first three league games, Manchester United were installed as slight favourites ahead of the derby against Manchester City. But they were badly exposed in the first half by Pep Guardiola’s fleet-footed side, with several players looking off the pace. The ponderous Henrikh Mkhitaryan was taken off at half-time, along with Jesse Lingard, while Paul Pogba failed to assert himself and manager Jose Mourinho had stinging words of criticism for centrebacks Eric Bailly and Daley Blind. Once again, it took

Paul Pogba has so far failed to assert himself at Man Utd. Photo: AFP the introduction of fearless 18-year-old Marcus Rashford to enliven United. Mourinho, whose side lost 2-1, may need to find a permanent starting role for Rashford if United are to avoid losing touch with City.

champions Leicester City fell to a second defeat in four matches.

After last season’s dismal 10th-place finish, Chelsea made a storming start to the campaign under new manager Antonio Conte, winning their first three games. They were 1-0 up at Swansea City and in total control of the match when the vulnerability that plagued them throughout last season resurfaced. Gylfi Sigurdsson equalised with a penalty after being brought down by a needless challenge from Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois before Leroy Fer robbed Gary Cahill – fouling him in the process, as television replays would

EVENT

MONTHLY STANDINGS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

OVERALL STANDINGS

Charlie1982 7 Marisa S 7 chook 6 jigdellasoul 6 lufc 6

Team 1 2 3

Diego Costa celebrates scoring against Swansea. Photo: AFP reveal – to put Swansea ahead. Diego Costa’s acrobatic second goal, in the 81st minute, rescued a point, but Chelsea's jittery second-half display suggested last season’s disappointments have not yet been fully digested.

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

*Times may be subject to change

START STOP

EPL PREDICTIONS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

scottkip 27 MRB 25 TC 25 adamrosindale 24 matthew 24

English Premier League 2016 - 2017

Live Sports TV Schedule SPORT

The overall competition winner receives a two day/one night private fishing charter to Racha Island on board Wahoo Yacht Charters Phuket’s Reel Blue. Total prize value: B180,000 The monthly competition winner for September 2016 will receive a THB3,000 voucher to spend at Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach.

Here are four things we learnt after the fourth week of action:

Chelsea are still fragile

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TEAMS / INFO

Man City Chelsea Everton Man Utd Tottenham Liverpool Arsenal Hull Middlesbrough Watford Crystal Palace West Brom Swansea Bournemouth Burnley Leicester West Ham Southampton Sunderland Stoke

MP W 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

4 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0

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0 1 1 0 2 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 2 1 1

0 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 2 3 3

11 9 7 7 7 9 8 5 4 7 3 2 4 3 3 4 5 3 3 2

4 4 2 3 2 7 6 3 4 8 4 3 6 5 5 7 9 6 8 10

7 5 5 4 5 2 2 2 0 -1 -1 -1 -2 -2 -2 -3 -4 -3 -5 -8

12 10 10 9 8 7 7 7 5 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 3 2 1 1

Friday September 16 Rugby League 16:55

19:00

NRL Semi-final 1, Kirwan

Cowboys v. Broncos

Aussie Rules 16:50

19:45

Semi-final 1, MCG

Hawthorn v. Western Bulldogs

Motor Racing 18:20

22:00

Formula 1

Practice 2, Marina Bay, Singapore

Rugby Union 23:55

01:50

Currie Cup

Blue Bulls v. Griquas

Bravo could be Man City’s weak link

Saturday September 17 Rugby League 16:30

18:30 NRL Semi-final 2, Canberra

Aussie Rules 16:25

19:30

Semi -final 2, SCG

Raiders v. Panthers Sydney Swans v. Adelaide Crows

Rugby Union 20:00

22:00

Currie Cup

Sharks v. Kings

00:10

02:00

Currie Cup

Western Province v. Pumas

Rugby Union 14:30

16:30

Rugby Championship

New Zealand v. South Africa

17:00

19:00

Rugby Championship

Australia v. Argentina

Motor Racing 19:00

21:00

Formula 1

Qualifying, Singapore

18:30

20:00

EPL

Chelsea v. Liverpool (Repeat)

21:00

23:00

EPL

Hull v. Arsenal

23:30

01:30

EPL

Everton v. Middlesbrough

21:00

23:00

EPL

Man City v. Bournemouth

21:00

23:00

EPL

Leicester v. Burnley

21:00

23:00

EPL

West Bromwich v. West Ham

22:55

Aviva Premiership

Newcastle v. Leicester

22:55

01:00

France Top 14

Racing 92 v. Toulon

18:00

20:00

EPL

Watford v. Man United

20:15

22:15

EPL

Crystal Palace v. Stoke

22:30

00:30

EPL

Tottenham v. Sunderland Southampton v. Swansea

Soccer

Sunday September 18 Rugby Union 20:55 Soccer

20:15

22:15

EPL

Motor Racing 18:00

Soccer

18:45

Formula 1

Raceday, Marina Bay

18:45

21:30

Formula 1

Singapore Grand Prix

15:45

20:30

MotoGP

Grand Prix of San Marino

Motorbikes

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Liverpool supporters arrive outside their new main stand. Photo: AFP

New stand, new hope for Liverpool Jumping for joy on the touchline, Jurgen Klopp’s manic celebrations were replicated all around him as Liverpool’s biggest crowd since 1977 hailed a 4-1 thrashing of champions Leicester. The last time an attendance of 53,000 or more packed into Anfield, Liverpool were English champions under the leadership of the softly spoken Bob Paisley. Now, thanks to a significant re-

development of the historic stadium’s Main Stand and the shrewd leadership of the far more voluble Klopp, Liverpool can once again dream of emulating the feats of Kenny Dalglish, Phil Thompson and company. Judging by the way the Reds tore into Leicester, with goals from Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane and Adam Lallana, Klopp's side could yet mount a serious title challenge this season.

City were 2-0 up and cruising at Old Trafford until their new goalkeeper Claudio Bravo dropped a high cross from Wayne Rooney, allowing Zlatan Ibrahimovic to halve the deficit. The Chile international was signed in large part due to his quality on the ball, but he showed serious deficiencies when it came to handling crosses. Also, his ease on the ball almost came back to bite him when he overran the ball inside the penalty area and launched into a risky challenge on Rooney. Fortunately for him, and manager Guardiola, referee Mark Clattenburg did not award a penalty. Guardiola praised Bravo for

The Chile international showed serious deficiencies when it came to handling crosses. Photo: AFP showing “personality” after his first-half error, but opposition sides will be rubbing their hands at the thought of the former Barcelona goalkeeper’s vulnerability in the air. AFP

Sport TURNING editor3@classactmedia.co.th

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

Phuket FC fan favourite hangs up his boots > page 37

HIS LIFE AROUND

Four months after losing his leg, Mac Rosen is seeing a brighter future WAKEBOARDING Matt Pond editor3@classactmedia.co.th

t is now just under three months since Phuket-born pro wakeboarder Mac Rosen underwent surgery to have his left leg amputated below the knee following an accident during a wakeboarding competition in May. It is hard to image what anyone having to go through such a situation faces, but it is even harder when that person is a 25-year-old, who at the time believed he was seeing his entire sporting future disappear into thin air. However, with massive and heartfelt help from a handful of friends and very close family, Mac is starting to turn his life around, and also starting to believe that his sporting career may not be over, but actually, about to be reborn. A fundraiser is set to be held tomorrow (Sept 18 – details p24) at Anthem Wake Park in Cherng Talay to help raise funds for Mac’s continuing rehabilitation and physiotherapy. So The Phuket News decided to catch up with Mac and one of the main people helping him on his road to recovery, RPM Health Club’s

Hayden Rhodes, to find out what’s been going on and what is needed in aiding him on what has been a roller coaster journey back to fitness, both in mind and body. “My life’s been full of ups and downs since the accident, but the positives have been that I managed to get out of the hospital and I’m slowly moving on with my life. “But saying that, I still see a down side, and that is that I am still not as mobile as I would like to be,” Mac said. “I want to get back on my board, I’m bored with [water] skiing now, just going round and round in circles. But I know that’s not possible until I get back to full fitness and have the correct prosthetic leg,” he added. Hayden, who first met Mac two years ago, was contacted shortly after the accident to see if he would be willing to help with Mac’s recovery. In response, RPM Health Club are now sponsoring Mac with a rehabilitation membership with three or four private coaching sessions per week. These intense sessions focus on; rehabilitation and neurological training, pilates conditioning and alignment, and functional sports strength and general physical training. All of these sessions aim to

Functional sports strength is a major part of Mac’s rehabilitation training. Photo: Matt Pond help with overall physical, mental and emotional wellbeing – and Hayden personally oversees Mac’s development. Hayden explai ned , “Around the time of Mac’s accident I had just finished working with a 66-year-old man who had also lost his leg, I worked with him for two years so that he would be able to do something that

he loved, skiing. “When I first met Mac following the accident the first thing he said to me was that he wanted to get back on the water as soon as possible, and this was magic to my ears, but he also needed to face reality. “I had to explain to Mac that his mind and body were going to go through massive

Despite his disabilty, Mac is certainly hanging in there and showing his strength. Photo: Matt Pond changes, and even with a prosthetic leg (he didn’t have one at that time), the muscles in his stump are going to keep changing and he will continually have to return to hospital to adjust the fitting of that leg over the next 12 months or so,” Hayden said. “Until Mac’s stump is fully recovered, and he gets a sporting leg that is able to take serious impact, he’s not going to be in the place where he wants to be. By that I mean up in the air fully riding hard again. The good news is that once we have a new strong sporting leg the progress on the water will be pretty fast.” “Thankfully, and this is something that Mac can be really proud of, he is coming to terms with this and he now knows that he will be in the place he wants to be in about 12 months,” he added. Something else Mac can be proud of is that Anthem Wake Park has recently given him a position as coach for the park’s up-and-coming students, and they are already reaping the benefits of his guidance. “Two of the kids I’m training did really well in the Wake Jam Thai pro-event in Bangkok earlier this month. The 12-year-old I train actually won the event and that was

competing against people twice his age,” Mac said. However, it’s not only on a local level that Mac has been asked to coach, Thailand Extreme Sports Association (TESA) Director Phuriwat “Ton” Phattranonarnan has also asked him to be the head coach for the Thailand National Wakeboarding team. In fact, Mac specifically requested that Ton get a mention in this article, as he was there for him and his family throughout his ordeal. “Ton took care of everything for my parents and I when I was hospitalised, he was there every day to give us all support, and he is continuing to do it. We cannot thank him enough for what he has done,” he said. In addition to Ton, Mac specifically asked The Phuket News to mention a few people who have been there with him from day one of his ordeal, his now fiancée Maria Doroshenko, his friend Rudy, and of course the people that brought him into this world, his mum and dad. Best of luck with your recovery Mac, and The Phuket News is sure that with all the ongoing support you’re receiving you’ll be back on your board and in the air in no time at all. thephuketnews