21-10-2016

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

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IN MOURNING

NEWS

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Governor wants virgin beaches

LIFE

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Couple adopt an orphaned child

Mourners gather at Saphan Hin in Phuket Town. Photo: Udom ‘Tao’ Jampathin

THOUSANDS SHOW THEIR GRIEF IN PASSING OF LATE KING BHUMIBOL The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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ince the passing of His Majesty the late King Bhumipol Adulyadej, last Thursday afternoon (Oct 13), residents and tourists have taken to the streets in numbers to mourn. The death of the world’s longest reigning monarch has been publicly marked during various events held around the island.

Mourning activities started al-

most as soon as the announcement of the late King’s passing was made at 7pm last Thursday by the Royal Household Bureau.

Immediately after learning the news, members of the Patong Entertainment Business Association (PEBA), who took it upon themselves to close bars and entertainment venues in the island’s entertainment hub, were led by PEBA President Weerawit Kuresomba to Patong Beach where they lit candles and prayed for the late King.

“After we heard the news of the death of His Majesty on October 13, all venues in Patong shut down. Not long after the official announcement was made members of PEBA went to Patong Beach to light candles and pray for HM the King,” said Mr Weerawit.

At the same time, Kusoldharm rescue workers organised a gathering at Saphan Hin in Phuket Town.

Kusoldharm rescue worker, Mr Chakkris Sithichai, said, “We asked all our friends to come out on the

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@thephuketnews

night of October 13 to light candles for King Bhumibol after we heard the sad news. But in fact many people besides our friends showed up at Saphan Hin with the same intention, so we agreed to continue this activity at 7pm for nine days until October 21.

“We will gather here every night until October 21 because we want to reflect all the hard work that His Majesty has done for us. All his life he worked so hard for his people and now he has passed away and this...

SPORT

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TPN’s exclusive interview with Daniel Ricciardo

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PHUKET NEWS

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

Islanders come together following passing of HM

Continued from page 1 ...causes us much grief,” he said.

Several thousand residents and tourists dressed in black attire also gathered in front of the Saphan Hin (Giew Tien Geng) shrine last Friday night (Oct 14) at 7pm for a candlelight ceremony to pay respect to the late King Bhumibol.

Many built sandcastles resembling a number nine and surrounded them with a heart, thus symbolizing that the late King Rama IX is the heart of Thai people. At 8pm, along with tears and sorrow, the crowd sang a song praising His Majesty the late King.

Among the mourners at Saphan Hin last Friday was tourist Mr Jens Platzdasch who said he loved Thailand and loved King Rama IX. “I come to Thailand every year and this year is the eighth time. When I heard the news of King Bhumibol passing I asked the hotel manger if we could join a ceremony to pay our respect for the late King and he told us to come here,” he said.

However, the first official service held in honour of the late King Bhumibol came last Friday afternoon when at 4pm, officials led by Phuket Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan began a symbolic Royal bathing ceremony at Provincial Hall.

Joining Gov Chockchai were officials dressed in their ceremonial white uniforms with black armbands along with students and other members of the public.

Also last Friday students, academics and faculty staff at Phuket Rajabhat and Prince of Songkhla universities held mass services to mourn the passing of the late King.

Well over 2,000 attendees dressed in black gathered at the university campus for the services.

Phuket Rajabhat University Chancellor Dr Prapa Kayee

led their service with a eulogy honouring the late King Bumibol, his achievements and the adoration he invoked from the Thai people.

Staff from Phuket International Airport and various other facilities on the island including hospitals and banks also held ceremonies last Friday to mourn the late His Majesties death.

On Saturday (Oct 17), 250 Phuket Christians belonging to the Phuket Christian Committee and Billy Graham Evangelistic Association held a memorial service at 7pm in the Zion of God Church to mourn to passing of His Majesty the late King Bhumibol.

However, the biggest gathering of mourners was seen at Provincial Hall last Sunday morning (Oct 15) when Gov Chockchai led more than 1,000 mourners to pay respect to the late King Bhumibol.

Gov Chockchai presided over the condolence ceremony organised by the Ministry of Interior and Government Public Relations Department and held in 12 provinces which have regional stations of the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand (NBT) television station.

Speaking before the start of the ceremony, Gov Chockchai said, “At 10am we will have a ceremony for our beloved King Bhumibol. This ceremony, along with ceremonies being held in 11 other provinces today, will be recorded and broadcast on the NBT television station.

“Following the ceremony, people are also invited to sign a remembrance book which is located on the second floor of the building. People can come to and pay their respects here for the next 30 days,” he added.

Meanwhile, all of Phuket’s 14 honorary consuls visited Phuket Provincial Hall on Monday afternoon (Oct 17) to sign the book of condolence for the late King Bhumibol.

HM King Bhumibol talking to villagers during his visit to Rawai on March 10, 1959. Photo: Rawai Municipality

A time to reminisce Stories of King’s visit in 1959 shared by village elders Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

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large number of Rawai sea gypsies gathered at a sala in the village on Tuesday (Oct 13) to pay their respects to HM the late King Bhumibol following his passing last Thursday (Oct 18), with many of the elders reminiscing about a visit to the village by the King in 1959.

It was during this visit

by King Bhumibol that he recommended to his staff that villagers be referred to as Thai Mai or new Thai instead of sea people.

One villager, Mr Ngeem Damrongkasorn, 71, told The Phuket News, “I remember the King’s visit very well. I was 12 or 13 years old and had just returned from school when I saw people gathering to greet His Majesty.

“I was so excited to get to see the King, and he came so close to us and spoke to many.

He asked us how we lived, but at that time nobody in the village could speak Thai so we had to rely on a translator to help us communicate.

“King Bhumibol then went to the beach which is now the disputed area of land near our place of worship,” he said.

“I recall one of His Majesty’s guards introducing us as sea people, but he interrupted him and said ‘don’t say that, we should refer to these villagers as new Thai’. We were all so proud of his comment and praised him for the love and kindness he showed towards us,” he added.

Mr Ngeem went on to explain that in the past sea gypsies were nomads with no nationality, but it was His Majesty who helped villagers have equal rights to Thai people and that included younger members going to school, villagers being issued with ID cards, and having a family named bestowed by him.

“After we heard that His Majesty had died our hearts and souls cried out for his.

We are in great grief,” Mr Ngeem said.

“For me, I will always remember the King’s words and teachings. He taught us to be good and moral,” he added.

Ms Hya Miden, 75, and her husband Nang Miden, 78, were also present during that visit in 1959 and were teenagers at the time.

Ms Hya said, “There were about 30 families that came out to greet His Majesty that day which was unusual because many were afraid of visitors.

“Sea gypsies were always frightened of authorities, but we were so delighted to see the King.

“Of course we are sad that he is no longer with us, but we are proud that we had a chance to meet King Bhumibol once in our lifetime,” she said.

Meanwhile a representative from the Rawai sea gypsy

community led a group of villagers to attend a condolence ceremony at Rawai Municipality where many people, led by Mayor Aroon Solos, gathered in front of a portrait of the late King Bhumibol.

Mayor Aroon said, “We were all devastated when the Royal House announced the passing of the King on October 13. It is the day that we never thought would happen or never wanted to hear. His passing is a tremendous loss to all Thais across the Kingdom.

“King Bhumibol visited residents in Rawai on March 10, 1959. He is the King that we loved and adored. During the 70 years he ruled this land, he was the centre of Thai people. He always sought the best for his people and wanted happiness for all.

“Even though his reign has come to an end, his love and kindness for his people will continue to shine in our hearts,” he said.

Rescue workers hand out black ribbons KUSOLDHARM RESCUE workers at Baan Thareua in Thalang have handed out more than 1,000 handmade black ribbons to residents who do not have black attire to wear every day so that they can use them as symbol of mourning during the mourning period

for His Majesty the late King.

Kusoldharm rescue workers led by Mr Krisana Kamphung on Tuesday (Oct 18) assembled more than 1,000 black ribbons with safety pins to give away to residents who do not have a black top to wear every day of the week.

Mr Krisana said, “We handed out black ribbons around Heroines monument to local residents. They can pin them on the left side of their sleeve to show they a mourning the death of HM King Bhumibol.”

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Black ribbons are being worn mostly by mourners who do not have enough black clothes to wear.

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NEWS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

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World leaders pay tribute BANGKOK

A large crowd of people gather at the bottom of a bridge in Bangkok to watch the procession as the body of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej is transported from Siriraj Hospital to the Grand Palace. Photo: Munir Uz Zaman/AFP

THAIS SALUTE THE LATE KING BANGKOK

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he nation came to a halt last Friday afternoon (Oct 14) as black-clad mourners gathered to witness the procession of His Majesty the late King Bhumibol’s body from Siriraj Hospital to the Grand Palace.

Tens of thousands of people fully occupied the four-kilometre route where the motorcade passed. Many had been at the hospital and locations along the roads since Thursday night (Oct 13) to get the best views of the van transporting the body to the Phiman Rattaya Throne Hall inside the Grand Palace.

Many cried and waved King’s flags as the motorcade passed by. All members of the Royal Family including Her Majesty the Queen were part of the procession.

The phenomenal reverence towards him was on clear display as mourners sat for hours in Bangkok’s urban heat awaiting the passage of his motorcade, in scenes reminiscent of religious devotees.

Pensive-looking men and women dressed in black were jammed cheek by jowl along roadsides in the capital on the short route from the hospital to the Grand Palace.

Some fainted and were carried away on stretchers, while others shouted “King of the people!” as the convoy of several vans bearing his body and the royal family slowly wheeled through hushed streets.

Millions more who were unable to come to Bangkok watched the event on television when the ceremony was broadcast live on all channels as His Royal Highness Crown

Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn led the event at 4:30pm.

Mourners also gathered by the thousands at Sala Sahathai Samakhom Pavilion, inside the Grand Palace complex, last Friday morning to take part in a symbolic bathing rite for the late King with other dignitaries including Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and cabinet ministers.

Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, 64, presided over the bathing of the late King’s body, a traditional Buddhist funeral rite and the start of official mourning that will include at least 100 days of chanting by monks and months more of palace rituals.

The late King’s body is now resting at the pavilion for a chanting ceremony. The cremation date has not been announced.

Bangkok Post/AFP

Princess tells crowds, ‘We are a family’ PRINCESS UBOLRATANA on Monday night (Oct 17) told large grief-stricken crowds outside the Grand Palace that “we are a family” and encouraged them to extend moral support to each other.

In a video clip released by the “We Love Chakri Dynasty” Facebook Page, the Princess was seen talking to mourners outside the Grand Palace where His Majesty the late King’s body is being kept. “[We are here] to express condolences because we are a family. His Majesty is our father. He is everyone’s father.

We have to extend our support to each other and help each other work and move forward,” she told the crowd.

The Princess also brought food for the crowd.

Her visit and kind words left many overwhelmed. They shouted “Long live the Princess” as she was about to leave. @thephuketnews

His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn embraces older sister Princess Ubolratana following a royal merit-making ceremony for His Majesty the late King at the grand Palace’s Dusit Maha Prasart Throne Hall on Monday (Oct 17). Photo: Royal Household Bureau.

A woman was heard in the clip wishing her good health, and the Princess was heard replying: “We are very strong. Good luck to everyone.”

The video clip has gone viral.

The Bureau of the Royal Household has released a photo of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn embracing Princess Ubolratana following a royal merit-making

ceremony for the late King at the Grand Palace’s Dusit Maha Prasart Throne Hall on Monday.

The public will be allowed to pay homage to the late monarch’s urn from 1pm on Oct 28, after the 15-day merit-making ceremony is completed.

Currently they are allowed to pay respects to the late King before his portrait and sign condolence books.

Bangkok Post

WORLD LEADERS PAID tribute to HM the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej as a champion of his people during a momentous seven-decade reign.

UN chief Ban Ki-moon hailed the late King’s “long dedication to his country and his legacy as a unifying national leader… respected internationally”.

“The Secretary-General expresses his hope that Thailand will continue to honour King Bhumibol’s legacy of commitment to universal values and respect for human rights,” his spokesman said in a statement.

US President Barack Obama praised the monarch as a “close friend” and partner of the United States.

He paid tribute to the king as a “tireless champion” for Thailand’s development, praising his “unflagging devotion” to improving the lives of his subjects.

Neighbouring Singapore and Malaysia both expressed their sorrow at his passing, with the island city-state describing the king as “an outstanding and deeply revered monarch…

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II looks at gifts presented to her by the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej before a state banquet held in her honour at the Grand Palace in Bangkok in 1996. Photo: Vitoon/Stringer/AFP (who) worked tirelessly for the betterment of the Thai people”.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said, “King Bhumibol was a towering presence whose contribution to Thailand, and the rest of the region, is beyond words.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a telegram of condolence, saying that “during the decades of his reign he won the sincere love of his subjects and high prestige abroad”.

Chinese President Xi Jinping hailed the late King’s contribution to Thailand’s development, adding that the “good relationship” between Bangkok and Beijing were due in no small part to “personal

efforts made by HM King Bhumibol himself”.

The late King Bhumibol’s “rural development projects improved the lives of millions of people in Thailand” and will be remembered for generations to come, said EU President Donald Tusk.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: “People of India and I join the people of Thailand in grieving the loss of one of the tallest leaders of our times.

HM Queen Elizabeth, who for had publicly shared good relations with the late King, has reportedly sent a private message of condolence.

Bangkok Post

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PHUKET NEWS

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

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Governor sets eyes on 100pc virgin beaches T

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Phuket Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan.

he governor of Phuket has stated that it is in his plans to remove all 10 per cent zones from Phuket’s beaches, thus leaving them all as virgin beaches.

The statement was made during Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan’s “Governor Meets Press” meeting held last Thursday (Oct 13) together with Vice Governors

Theera Anantaseriwidhya, Siwaporn Chuasawad and Snith Sriwihok.

During the meeting a reporter from The Phuket News asked Gov Chockchai, “Do you have any plans to increase or change the 10% beach rules?”

Gov Chockchai replied, “I have thought a lot about what to do about this, as there are actually no laws which allows 10% on beaches.

“Also, it appears that we still have issues with the

umbrella and beach chair mafias. There will be no more mafias. It is my duty to work out who will manage Phuket’s beaches, but I can assure you it will not be mafias and they will be run in accordance with the law.

“As it is illegal to have these 10% zones they will gradually be removed leaving virgin beaches.

“I will not allow people to break the rules,” he said.

“At present the rules will remain the same. Howev-

er, when I have the time I will educate myself on the beach situation in Phuket and gradually all the 10% zones will be removed. The current situation is certainly inconvenient.

“If vendors want to press me regarding this issue then my decision will be made, I will make all Phuket’s beaches virgin beaches immediately.

“Saying that you are poor is not an excuse to go out and break the law,” he added.

Respiratory, circulatory failure caused Frenchman’s death

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

THE PATONG POLICE OFFICER investigating the death of a French tourist found dead in his hotel room in Patong on Oct 8 told The Phuket News on Tuesday (Oct 18) that respiratory and circulatory failure were to blame and that police will cease their investigation into the case.

The body of Sylvain Bernard Renia, 27, from Montreuil, France, was discovered by staff at The Nest Resort on Nanai Rd at 9:30am on Oct 8.

Mr Renia checked in to the hotel

on Oct 6 and was found naked, collapsed against a set of drawers in the room’s hallway.

Lt Sirinath Cheuchutakulthong of the Patong Police told The Phuket News on Tuesday, “I received the autopsy results from the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Surat Thani of the 27-year-old French tourist on October 13.

“The results state that respiratory and circulatory failure were the only causes of death. There are no details

in the results which mention chemicals or poisoning as part of the cause of death,” she said.

“I will not investigate any further into this case as we now have medical confirmation of the cause of death and there are no suspicious circumstances.

In addition, Mr Renia’s family are not questioning the cause of death.

“Mr Renia’s body has been transferred to France by the French embassy, she added.

The Phuket News

Forensic police inspect the room of the Frenchman following his death on Oct 8. Photo: Patong Police

Illegal Chinese tour guide arrested

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

Chinese man was arrested on Monday (Oct 17) for working illegally as a tour guide while he was on a tour bus with 26 Chinese tourists heading to Phuket Town.

Phuket Tourist Police Chief Col Srisak Kampeeraphan led his team of officers to arrest Ruikai Chen, 30, at the Phuket Checkpoint (Tha Chatchai) in Mai Khao at 6:30pm on Monday.

A statement issued by police stated that Chen was arrested for working as an illegal tour guide and living in Thailand illegally. Police seized from him a tour program and a name list of tourists in his group.

The arrest of Chen came as police at the checkpoint were stopping incoming vehicles to check for anyone breaking the Tourist Act in Phuket.

Tourist police question Chen (left). Photo: Tourist Police Col Srisak explained, “Chen came on a bus registered in Nakorn Prathom with a group of 26 Chinese tourists. They came from Phang Nga and were entering Phuket via the checkpoint. When officers stopped the bus Chen came forward as the tour leader for the group.

Officers asked to see his identification and work permit,

the latter he could not provide.

The police statement also states that Chen said that he is a tour leader for the group not a guide so he did not have a guide permit.

Chen was taken to Tha Chatchai Police Station to be charge with working as an illegal guide and living in Thailand illegally.

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PHUKET NEWS

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arrested in Phuket Police investigate cases Seven anti-drug crime crackdown of alleged lese majeste The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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olice are currently investigating three alleged cases of lese majeste, two on the island and a third in the neighbouring province of Phang Nga, following protests that occurred after people are alleged to have posted defamatory remarks about the Thai Royal Family on Facebook.

In two of the incidents, angry mobs of residents took matters into their own hands in attempts to resolve the issues and police had to step in and pacify the groups.

Early last Saturday morning (Oct 15), hundreds of angry residents gathered in front of the Nam Tou Hu Samkong dessert shop on Yaowarat Rd in Phuket Town after the shop owner was alleged to have posted disrespectful comments about the Royal Family on social media.

Around 100 residents gathered outside the Nam Tou Hu Samkong at midnight to voice their anger over posts made on Facebook by 30-year-old Sutee Arammatapongsa in relation to the Thai Royal Family.

After learning about the gathering, a team of police and army officers were sent to disperse the group, however, the crowd were adamant that they would not be moved.

Soon after, Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Teeraphol Thipjaroen arrived and told the group that before any charges could be brought against Sutee further evidence would have to be collected from witnesses to allow the matter to progress according to the law.

Following that announcement a large group of the protesters made their way to Phuket City Police Station to file complaints against Sutee.

A representative from the

@thephuketnews

Angry protestors in Phang Nga demanded that the son of the owner of a roti shop be brought before them to prostate in front of a portrait of the late King.

Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub group, Surin Liamudom, 53, said that he had informed officers at the station of the alleged lese majeste offence.

“I have reported Sutee Arammatapongsa, 30, to the police for breach of Section 112 (of the Thai Criminal Code). I filed my report to Lt Surachat Thongbai, who has made a record of my complaint,” he said.

Lt Surachat said, “I will collect evidence in relation to the complaint and follow up on this case.”

Then on Saturday night, more than 50 police officers, local officials and military personnel were put on standby when over 1,500 people set up a roadblock on Phetkasem Rd near the Khok Kloi Market in Phang Nga province in protest of a social media post they said was disrespectful to the Thai Royal Family.

The crowd accused the son of the owner of a roti shop located close to the market of posting “severely offensive” content Facebook. The owner’s son serves as a military conscript attached to Third Naval Area Command in Phang Nga. The leader of the protest

called on police to bring the owner’s son to prostate in front of a portrait of HM the late King, and also demanded they charge the man with lese majeste.

Three hours after the demonstration began, Ekkachai Suwanno, Deputy Chief of Internal Security Operations Command, who represents the Third Naval Area Command, promised to take legal action against the man. The demonstrators then sang the royal anthem before leaving the area.

In the third case, a 25-yearold man was arrested at his home in Mai Khao on Sunday morning (Oct 16) after he was also alleged to have posted a message on Facebook deemed to be disrespectful to the Thai Royal Family. Police said the man was high on methamphetamine pills (ya bah) when arrested.

Tha Chatchai Police arrested Manorusadeen Samuthban, 25, at his house in Moo 2 Mai Khao.

Lt Col Prawit said,“We coordinated with the Mai Khao Moo 2 village headman after we were notified of a pos-

sible lese majeste message on Facebook. We arrived at the suspect’s home and found him high on meth. We also found one ya bah pill in his room.

Manorusadeen was taken away to be charged with possession of Category 1 drug.

At time of going to press, no charges had yet to be made against the three suspected lese majeste posters and investigations were continuing.

SEVEN PEOPLE WER E arrested last week as part of police’s anti-drug and crime campaign.

Anti-narcotics police led

by Phuket City Police’s Maj Rittichai Chumchuy arrested seven people who were found in possession of a total of six kilograms of marijuana, 2.37 grams of crystal meth (ya ice), seven methamphetamine pills (ya bah) and 44 bullets.

On October 11 the team arrested six people as follows: At 2pm - Sin Sansanuk, 22, with 1.14g of ya ice.

At 4pm – F (real name withheld), 17, with 1.23g of ya ice and seven ya bah pills.

At 5:30pm - Weerapong Wuthithamapor, 60, with 5.02g of marijuana and others items.

At 8:30pm -Khajonkiat Senthong, 25, with 7.27g of marijuana.

At 8:30pm - Zho Minn Ti, 25, from Myanmar with 7.27g of marijuana.

At 10:30pm - Aroon Laoboondet, 53, with 12.53g of marijuana.

The arrest of Weerapong at 5:30pm then led police to arrest Mr Thanapon Yammali, 40, in Patong. He was found in possession of 5.89kg of marijuana and 44 .22 bullets.

According to a police statement, Weerapong told police that Thanapon asked him to pick up some drugs across from Central Festival and deliver them to him in Patong.

Weerapong led police to Thanapon’s home but it was dark inside so officers monitored the house until the next day. They then found Thanapon at a neighbouring property.

Police escorted him back to his home where they discovered the marijuana and ammunition.

Sin and Saithan were charged with possession of category 1 drug. Weerapong with possession of a Category 5 drug, and Khajonkiat, Aroon, Thanapon and Zho with possession of a Category 5 drug.

Zho was also charged with living in Thailand illegally and Thanapon with illegal possession of ammunition.

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

Phuket in deep mourning

What visitors and tourists need to know to show their respect

W

ith Thailand grieving the death of beloved late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the famous welcome extended to visitors in the “Land of Smiles” will be a bit less warm during the mourning period.

While most public services are unaffected, a range of entertainment, sport and cultural events have been cancelled or postponed, and guidelines have been issued on acceptable behaviour. Here is what visitors should know:

a popular English-language website.

The city’s 14th World Film Festival set for November has been postponed to January 20-29.

A range of religious and cultural festivals around the country also have been suspended.

All entertainment programming on Thai television has been banned for the next month, but cinemas have reopened following a brief initial shutdown.

A woman holds a portrait of His Majesty the late King outside of the Grand Palace in Bangkok, which was closed until Oct 21.

Photo: AFP

Be a good guest

Not everyone is required to follow millions of mourning Thais in wearing black, but visitors are nonetheless expected to avoid overly revealing or colourful attire.

Britain has advised its citizens to “behave respectfully when in public areas.”

“If possible, wear sombre and respectful clothing when in public; check local media regularly and follow the advice of the local authorities.”

Australia’s foreign ministry counselled against behav-

iour that may be interpreted “as festive, disrespectful or disorderly”.

On the country’s popular southern beaches, however, normal swimwear is expected to remain acceptable.

Basic services

Most public services and commercial activities are

unaffected, with hospitals, banks, embassies, government offices and shopping malls largely operating as normal, though there may be ad hoc closures or restrictions. There have so far been no reports of major transport disruptions.

Culture and entertainment

A number of entertainment

events have been cancelled, including concerts by Morrissey and the Scorpions, and Korean K-pop bands Big Bang, JYP and FT Island.

Dozens of stage plays in Bangkok and other Thai entertainment also have been called off as have a range of Bangkok arts and music festivals, according to Khaosod,

Tourist sights

Most tourist sites in Thailand including its exquisite Buddhist temples remain open.

Due to funeral rites, however, Bangkok’s gilded Grand Palace, the seat of the royalty, and the sacred Temple of the Emerald Buddha on its grounds are closed to visitors until Friday, October 21.

Both are among the capital’s prime tourist draws.

Most of Bangkok’s numerous popular open-air markets also are expected to stay in operation but visitors

are advised to check locally as some have been reported closed.

Nightlife

Don’t come expecting to sample Thailand’s nightlife over the next month.

Bangkok and Phuket’s nightclubs and bars have either temporarily closed or are operating in markedly subdued fashion after the Prime Minister Prayut Chano-cha ordered them to “tone it down”.

Otherwise, finding a bar or market selling alcohol in has become hit-or-miss.

Bars have reportedly been told they can continue to serve alcohol but play only slow music during an initial 30day morning period and are expected to close by 1:00 am.

One of the highest-profile casualties for revellers has been Monday’s Full Moon Party, an all-night blaze of bacchanalia on the southern beach resort island of Ko Pha Ngan that draws thousands of tourists annually.

AFP

Motorcyclists no longer allowed through Sam Kong Underpass HAVING BEEN ALLOWed to use the Sam Kong Underpass for several months now while work was carried on the surrounding area, motorcyclist on t wo- or three-wheel vehicles are no longer permitted to use it as the project is now nearing completion.

The project engineer in charge of overseeing construction of the underpass has also confirmed that as from now police will strictly enforce the law with regards to motorcyclist passing through.

Project Engineer Chalermpon Wongkietkun of the Phuket Highways Office told The Phuket News last Thursday (Oct 13) that people riding two-wheel or three-wheel transport – including bicycles, motorbikes, and motorbikes with sidecars – are now not allow through the Sam Kong Underpass.

Motorcycles had been allowed through the underpass as a temporary measure in order to reduce the usual heavy traffic at the site since the Highways officials opened two lanes northbound through the underpass on April 10. Mr

Motorcyclists are not allowed to use the underpass.

Chalermpon said, “We temporarily allowed motorcyclists to go through the underpass, but now that has come to an end. The law does state that these types of vehicles are not allowed in underpasses.

“We have already installed overhead signs in both directions leading into the entrances to the underpass to warn motorists about this.

“Warning signs for the

road are now being made and we will have them installed by next week,” he said.

Mr Chalermpon advised motorists to obey the law for their own safety, he said, “Even though the prohibition signs are in place some bikers still go through the underpass.

Police are now enforcing the law regarding this so please don’t break the law.”

The Phuket News thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

Aussie man, 32, collapses, dies of heart attack

7

Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

A

32-year-old Australian man died at Patong Hospital on Tuesday morning (Oct 18) with doctors stating that a heart attack was the cause of death.

Maj Pattapee Srichai from Patong Police received a call from staff at Patong Hospital at 9am on Tuesday (Oct 18) to report that a foreign man had died at the facility after being admitted earlier in the morning, the staff requested police be present during the body examination process.

Upon arrival, officers were taken to inspect the body of Ryan John Scerri, 32, which was in the emergency room.

Police stated that they found no signs of assault or injury on the body.

Maj Pattapee said that the man checked in to the Andaman Embrace Resort in Patong with his Canadian

Doctors from Patong Hospital said that Mr Scerri, 32, had suffered from a heart attack. wife, Ms Oiman Lai, on Oct 13 and was due to checkout on Oct 23.

On Oct 18 at 7am, Mr Scerri complained to his wife of chest pains, he was also having difficulty breathing.

Suddenly he collapsed, and when Ms Lai called out to him, he exhaled and then fell unconscious so she called for help.

Hotel worker, Mr Sarawuth Hataimaetha, arrived in the room to find the victim lying

on the floor next to the bed, he was still alive but his heart beat was extremely low.

When a medical unit arrived they said the man no longer had a pulse, they attempted to revive him but with no success.

The man was taken to the emergency room at Patong Hospital where doctors said he had died from a heart attack.

The Embassy has been notified and Ms Lai was assisting police with their inquiries.

Governor wants face recognition technology, eight lane checkpoint THE NEW PHUKET GOVernor is to use existing budget from the OSM Andaman (Andaman provinces group) for face recognition technology to scan drivers and vehicles passing through the Tha Chatchai checkpoint in the north of Phuket.

He will also use some of the budget to extend the checkpoint from four to eight lanes.

Gov Chockchai Detjamornthan announced his proposal at his first “Governor Meets Press” meeting held last Thursday (Oct 13) at Provincial

Hall and stated that Phuket will soon have new face recognition technology in place to help support the island’s existing security systems.

“I talked with officials last week about security improvements for the island and we agreed to utilize the OSM Andaman budget for a project to improve Tha Chatchai checkpoint which is our city gate.

“We will install face recognition technology to scan drivers and vehicles entering or leaving via the checkpoint.

This is a project which former

Gov Chockchai (above) wants to introduce face recognition technology (right) at the Tha Chatchai checkpoint. Photo: Maraparacc/wikipedia governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada studied.

“In addition, the project will include road expansion

at the checkpoint from four to eight lanes. Provincial Police will set up additional police

stations and provide more police officers to support this area,” Gov Chockchai said.

“The budget needed for this project is around B100 million or so which will come from OSM Andaman because the group has large amount of unused budget available due to many projects which have not come to development.

“Phuket is the leader of the OSM Andaman so we have to push for this project. I believe this project will help bring convenience to residents and tourists. Any investment like this in our province will also boost the island’s economy,” he added.

The Phuket News

22 gamblers arrested, B16,000 seized OFFICERS FROM T H E Military Circle 41 and Vichit Police arrested 22 people involved in gambling during a raid on the Step Up pub in Vichit last Saturday night (Oct 15).

The raid came after reports circulated that the venue was used for gambling and saw 600 betting slips and over B16,000 seized.

Maj Sathit Naikun of the Military Circle 41 and Wichit Police Chief Col Nikorn Somsuk led officers to raid the @thephuketnews

Step Up pub in Soi Jaroensap on the Muangtong-Khaokhad Rd at 8:30pm last Saturday after residents reported people gathered inside to participate in illegal football gambling.

Upon arrival, officials found the pub owner and staff gambling inside. Police seized 600 betting slips, B16,545 in cash and three computers from venue, and 22 people were taken to Vichit Police Station to face illegal gambling charges.

Maj Sathit said, “We

received information from Vichit Police that illegal gambling has been taking place in the area.

“Following checks, police arrested two gamblers last weekend, then today we learned there were more gamblers so we led a team to check the area,” he said.

“I will have police in every police station check their respective areas and rid the areas of all illegal gambling,” he added.

Eakkapop Thongtub

Opinion 8

OPINION

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

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EDITORIAL

The King, The Man, The Love

T

he mass memorial service for HM the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej at Phuket Provincial Hall last weekend provided the world with a glimpse of how much His Beloved Majesty meant to Thais living in Phuket.

T he profou nd g r ief amongst those present, while the rain fell as if it could wash away their tears, reflected the sorrowful state of the nation, as most Thais who now call Phuket home hail from all corners of the Kingdom Many foreigners today share in that grief. Notes of condolences posted alongside stories of the late king’s passing plainly show how many long-term expats over the years have come to call His Majesty “our King”. And that he was, a King for the people.

For many of these foreigners it took years to come to understanding that. As outsiders, it is easy to deconstruct through discourse the late King’s political role over the decades, without accurately taking into consideration His Majesty the late King’s true impact on his people.

If visitors who ask a Thai, “Why do you love him so much?” do not comprehend why the reply might simply be, “You don’t understand”, this is a simple truth.

His Majesty was loved more than a King. He was a man of greatness who performed his official duties with appropriate aplomb, but went far beyond that when it came to the needs of his people.

He literally brought water for the people in times of drought. He took steps to bring safety in times of

flood. He visited the poor, not on glory trips in stunted public-relations exercises, but to see their plight first-hand – and then he did something about it, not with glorious speeches overloaded with policy rhetoric, but by instituting real action that improved their lives.

Beyond this, Thais saw a man who also loved his music, his sports, his family – and yes, his dog. He was a man who chose to enjoy those simple things in life that all people enjoy. He also suffered the same grief when he lost a loved one.

In all this, Thais were gifted a blessing of a King who genuinely cared for people, and they know this. And now they have lost their Father.

Bear with them in this time of mourning.

Thailand, we mourn with you.

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Phuket Governor asks for bars to close for national mourning Thailand in Mourning: Advice for visitors Phuket bars and entertainment venues in lowkey reopening tomorrow Phuket man accused of lese majeste, saved from mob over social media post Phuket Governor has mind set on 100 per cent virgin beaches One-year mourning period set The nation mourns Drunk New Yorker arrested after attacking vehicles in Phuket Phuket Governor orders officials to strictly uphold national mourning mandate UK, Australian governments urge respect as Thailand mourns

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

HAVE YOUR SAY Humbled by HM

I am sure that many of the long-termers living in Thailand also thought of His Majesty as our King. I certainly did and feel honoured and humbled to have lived in this amazing country for 20 years of his reign.

M a ny wo rld le a d e r s would be better people if they showed even just a small amount of the love, warmth, dedication, help and leadership that he gave to Thailand and the Thai people. He will never be forgotten. R.I.P Paul Spring (direct by email) ...................................................

Sympathy from across the sea

Re: Phuket Governor asks for bars to close for national mourning If that’s the right thing to do then do it, my partner and I Just returned from Phuket and the most important thing we have taken back to Australia with us is just how beautiful the Thai people are and the great things their late King has done for them.

We wish we were there now so we could let them

know in person and give them all a big hug. If only we had a leader to look up to like the Thai people had.

Michael Hume ...................................................

Respect for the people of Thailand

Re: UK, Australian governments urge respect as Thailand mourns If you don’t understand how to behave and why you should, then stay home and don’t embarrass our nation.

Steve Crampton Please Aussies, show some respect while in Thailand and don’t behave like idiots.

Michael Hume ....................................................

Re: US President Obama pays tribute to His Majesty.

We care.

Edward Martin ...................................................

HM King Bhumibol: A life well lived

Re: Tears flow as HM King Bhumibol mourned.

Very sad loss to the people of Thailand. Our thoughts are with them in their time of sadness.

Graeme Burnett

Amazingly wonderful monarch.

Michael Arvin

live his legacy through the children of Rama 9.

Musti TC Yakici

Rest in peace beloved King.

Zack Raghdan

A great King, but also a great man.

Steve Crampton

May I be your humble servant forever more.

Amor Ero God bless our late King. He will be missed. A great man who achieved so much.

Craig Kensell So sad for the Thai people – such a great King and man of the people.

Sharon Elsley Rest in peace. Thai people will miss you a lot. So do I, although I am not Thai.

You are an inspiration to all walks of life. A great loss to Thailand.

Heng Hock Yee A life well lived. He must have felt the Thai people’s love for him every day of his life.

Christine Barone He is a beautiful man! Long

Our prayers and thoughts are with our Thai friends and the Thai people at the death of your beloved King.

Kim Draper God bless our late King. He will be missed. A great man who achieved so much.

Craig Kensell ...................................................

Difficult time for Phuket tourism

Re: Phuket bars and entertainment venues in low-key reopening tomorrow Very sad time for the Thai people. Much respect for their late King. The worker’s in Bangla Rd earn good money all year round, let’s hope that they have put some away to survive through this hard time. We pray for the people who are hurting at this difficult time.

Bec Monaghan

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

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

THAILAND NEWS

9

Thais show love for King O

ne common answer among people, when asked what they will do to commemorate the passing of the late His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, is that they will do good deeds and follow the late King’s teachings on a “sufficient way of life”.

To express their love for the late King, some inked the number nine in Thai numerals or the words “I was born in the reign of King Rama IX” on their bodies in remembrance of the late “Father of the Nation”.

Winai Udompol, 60, from Bang Yai district in Nonthaburi, arrived at the Grand Palace to pay his respects to the late King. He said that as one of the late King’s subjects, he will follow the late His Majesty’s “sufficiency” guidelines for the rest of his life because it’s the best way for someone like him to show respect to the monarch.

“Our late king had so many good qualities. He was an excellent sportsman, a talented musician and most importantly a great developer. He did so many good things for our country.

The best expression of bereavement and loyalty to His Majesty is to follow in his footsteps,” Mr Winai said, referring the late King’s sufficiency economy philosophy.

Sujira Putthawong, 21, a fashion design student in Bangkok, said she planned to design T-shirts with the

@thephuketnews

More than 1,500 officials, students and employees formed a giant black mourning bow for the late King outside Khon Kaen Provincial Hall on Monday (Oct 17). Photo: Jakkrapan Nathanri words “We Love the King” and “We Will Follow In The King’s Footsteps” printed on them to encourage Thais to follow the late His Majesty’s example.

She said she would give the T-shirts to friends and family, and maybe donate some to those in need.

“The King set many good examples of how to lead a sufficient way of life and now it is up to us to take heed of what he showed us and follow him to lead better lives,” she said.

Weerachai Banthaisong, a 40-yearold artist from Taling Chan district, on

Monday (Oct 17) drew a huge portrait of the late His Majesty and stood in front of Siriraj Hospital holding the image over his head for hours to offer his condolence.

He almost fainted at one point, but still held the late King’s portrait to his chest.

“I want Thai people, especially the young generation, to know what His Majesty did for us,” he said.

Mr Weerachai said his artwork is not 100 per cent complete yet. At first, he intended to draw a portrait to wish

the late His Majesty the King good health, but he didn’t expect the bad news to come so fast. He promised to continue working on his art to show his reverence to his beloved late King.

Ketsararat Kwankaew, a 27-year-old orchardist from Chumphon province, said she would start a tree growing activity in her hometown along with her community to honour the reforestation project pioneered by the late King.

“People in my community all remember the grace of His Majesty the King who worked hard for all Thai

people. So we want to do some good by planting more trees,” she said.

Krittapas Chaipimon, a 32-yearold photographer from Nakhon Sri Thammarat province, sported a brand new quote tattooed on his right arm.

He said it represented his love, respect and loyalty to the late King.

“My friends and I decided to get a permanent mark on our bodies immediately after we heard the bad news. His Majesty means a lot to Thai people. We are all proud to have been born under his reign,” he said.

He said his heart broke while listening to the announcement last Thursday (Oct 13) and decided he needed to do something in honour of the late King. When he arrived at the tattoo studio, many of his friends were already there. “I personally chose to ink the words ‘I was born in the reign of King Rama IX’ on my arm,” Mr Krittapas said.

Suthipol Karngann, a 31-year-old private employee from Lat Phrao district, said he planned to get the late King’s face tattooed on his chest so he could feel the late King is in his heart at all times. “If my children ask me about my tattoo in the future, I will tell them the story of the greatest man who ever lived and show them what he looks like,” he said. “And of course, I will teach them to follow the King’s teaching on sufficiency.”

Bangkok Post

10 THAILAND NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

In tribute, tattooists offer free or low cost services CHONBURI/ KHON KAEN

A All temples to People join in prayer for the late King at Wat Bowon Niwet in Bangkok. Photo: Bangkok Post

hold daily rites for late King NATIONWIDE THE SANGHA SUPREME Council (SSC) has issued guidelines instructing all Buddhist temples in Thailand and Thai Buddhist temples overseas to perform daily rites for the late King Bhumibol for one month.

Mass merit ceremonies are also to be organised for the 7th, 50th and 100th day of mourning, from Oct 13.

Provincial meditation centres should organise seven days of meditation on each of those dates.

The rites may be at the time

of the late King’s passing, at 3:52pm, or other appropriate times.

Each temple should also prepare an altar table, together with an image of the late King, inside the ordination hall or other suitable place.

Monks are instructed to meditate for the late King after normal evening prayers.

Lay people are also urged to join in the Buddhist ceremonies over the one-year mourning period.

SSC says there are about 33,000 Buddhist temples in Thailand.

Bangkok Post

rtists at a tattoo shop in Pattaya paid tribute to the late King by offering their talents free for three days to people who wanted to be inked with messages and images expressing their loyalty and affection for the late King Bhumibol.

In Khon Kaen, people also flocked to a local shop offering tattoos depicting the revered monarch, in remembrance of the late King’s devotion to the well-being of his people.

In Chon Buri, young people queued up in front of the Skin Art Tattoo shop on Chalermprakiat Sai 2 Rd, in Pattaya beach resort town, where five tattoo artists offered their services for free from Oct 15-17.

Nopporn Naplod, 34, one of the artists, said they realised people might want tattoos that symbolised their loyalty to and love of the monarch. The artists also wanted to do a good deed and pay tribute to the late King, so they were offering their inking skills to the people for

An artist tattoos an image of His Majesty the late King copied from a photo taken during a visit to Pattani on the chest of Thanadol Sribura. Photo: Jakkrapan Nathanri free. The shop chose designs that were appropriate for this time, when Thais across the country mourned the passing of their beloved late King.

The tattoo patterns all related to the late King and the country – the number 9, the national flag, a map of Thailand and other suitable symbols, said Mr Nopporn. They announced the free service on social media, and the response was quick. With so many people wanting a tattoo the shop had to limit the number to 50 people on each of the

three days.

In Khon Kaen, tattoo lovers also flocked to a local shop for patterns featuring images of His Majesty and words expressing their feelings for the late King.

Korakot Phoklang, owner of Noom Tattoo shop, said clients arrived at his shop every day to have messages and images of the late King Bhumibol tattooed on their skin. The message “I was born in King IX’s reign’’, in both Thai and English, was popular.

Customer Thanadol Sri-

bura, 28, said he had brought a photo of the late King taken during his visit to Pattani from Post Today newspaper to the shop, and asked that the image be tattooed on his chest.

He and his family felt gratitude to the late King for his hard work and devotion to the country, and he vowed to perform good deeds to pay tribute to the father of the nation.

The passing of the late King was a great loss for the nation, and he was still in the hearts of all Thais, Mr Thanadol said.

Bangkok Post

9.9m stamps featuring King portraits to be given to Thais NATIONWIDE THAILAND POST CO LTD PLANS to hand out 9.9 million stamps featuring the portraits of King Bhumibol to Thais across the country.

Samorn Therdthampibun, president of the state-owned company, said on Wednesday that it was preparing 9,999,999 stamps for distribution to the public to pay tribute to the late king, whose reign is the ninth of the Chakri dynasty.

The stamps, featuring images of the beloved monarch, would be pre-stamped with Oct 13, 2016, the date the King’s passing.

The agency is now working on the design of the stamps, which will be handed out to Thais at all postal branches across the country, said Ms Samorn.

Those who were interested in collecting commemorative stamps of the king could contact all postal branches or call Thailand Post’s contact centre at 1545.

Bangkok Post

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

ASIA NEWS 11

New home for unwanted gods Dedicated volunteer caring for thousands of unwanted deities HONG KONG

T

ucked away on a coastal hillside an elderly man practices a different kind of recycling – caring for the thousands of unwanted statues of deities that look out to sea, gathered and repaired after their owners discard them.

Dedicated volunteer Wong attends to the colourful collection of figures which are perched on a rocky slope running down to the sea in the south of the city.

Twice daily he sweeps away leaves and burns incense sticks as offerings to the unwanted gods, ranging from Buddhist and Taoist to local deities and Christian icons.

A retired butcher, 85-yearold Wong has been looking after the statues for 17 years after stumbling across a small neglected collection on the outskirts of the site, near the residential district of Wah Fu, while he was out walking.

Back then there were a dozen unattended statues, some broken. Now the spot has

@thephuketnews

Dedicated volunteer Wong Wing-pong offers incense to unwanted statues of deities, gathered and repaired after their owners discarded them. Photo: AFP grown into a popular destination for discarded figures, and is known locally as “A sky full of gods and Buddhas”.

Wong says new statues arrive every month from a number of sources – restaurants that are undergoing renovation, private homes where they can no longer be accommodated.

He spruces them up and some who have donated figures still come to worship them.

“No one should demean gods. If they are out here,

we should treat them well,” Wong said.

“If they are broken, I will glue them back together... I don’t dare throw them away. It goes against the conscience.”

Residents say they are thankful to Mr Wong.

One woman in her 80s, who gave her name as Ms Wan, said she still visits statues of local deities Guan Yin, goddess of mercy, and Guan Yu, inspired by a Chinese general, which she left at Wah Fu five years ago.

“The place is very well kept. I am thankful to him,” said Wan, who removed the figures from her home because some of her relatives converted to Christianity and did not want them on display.

Another resident, 65-yearold retiree Tse Sum swims off the shore near the site every day and also praised Wong for his dedication to the unwanted gods.

“If they are dumped they are trash,” said Tse.

“But if they are kept in order, they can be works of art.”

Religion and local customs permeate Hong Kong, where Buddhist and Taoist temples are common and incense offerings are regularly burned outside local businesses.

P r ivat e home s of t e n have a shrine to a local deity, with Christian churches and mosques also in the mix.

But with space at a premium in a city were rents are sky high, informal collections of discarded gods often decorate roadsides and public spaces.

In a leafy park next to a police station in the northern district of Fanling, around 30 statues sit quietly under the branches of a banyan tree.

Unlike Wah Fu, this site is not cared for daily by a guardian, but still draws visitors.

Yoyo Ng, 54, has come to leave a Guan Yin statue, one she kept for more than 30 years, saying she had to remove it from her home to make room for new tenants.

“I didn’t want it to go...

Hong Kong is just too small.

I had no choice. I keep it in

the shade so it’s not exposed to sunshine,” says Ng, who works at a rehabilitation centre for the disabled.

To Ng, leaving the statue in the park means she can continue to worship it regularly there. She said volunteers from her neighbourhood in Fanling come several times a month to clean the figures.

Discarded deities have disappeared from some areas over the years – residents say they are unsure who was responsible or why they were removed.

The government says it has no specific policy of clearing them, although they may be taken away if they are blocking the footpath.

Wong says he has no intention of abandoning the figures at Wah Fu. Looking after the statues has given him peace of mind.

“I feel I’m more healthy now. I have good sleep,” he says.

“I will come here until I can’t walk...I don’t care which religion they belong to. I will look after all of them.”

AFP

12 WORLD NEWS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Some room for improvement Poor ventilation, size leave Paris’s apartments as borderline illegal FRANCE

T

Chibok girls reunited with families NIGERIA TWENTY-ONE OF THE over 200 missing Chibok schoolgirls freed after being held by Nigeria’s Boko Haram Islamists for more than two years this week spoke of their ordeal as they were reunited with their families.

During a Christian ceremony held for them in the capital Abuja, a schoolgirl named Gloria Dame said they had survived for 40 days without food and narrowly escaped death at least once.

“I was... [in] the woods when the plane dropped a bomb near me but I wasn’t hurt,” Dame told the congregation.

“We had no food for one month and 10 days but we did not die. We thank God,” she said, speaking in the local Hausa language.

The ceremony was organised by Nigeria’s security services which negotiated their release. Most of the kidnapped students were Christian but had been forcibly converted to Islam during captivity.

The Chibok girls were abducted in April 2014, drawing global attention to the Boko Haram insurgency engulfing

Some of the 21 freed Chibok girls are received at the Nigerian Vice President’s office in Abuja. Photo AFP the area when US First Lady Michelle Obama joined the #BringBackOurGirls online movement.

Of the 276 girls initially seized, scores escaped in the hours after the kidnapping, while another 19-year-old was found with her four-month-old baby earlier this year.

The ceremony was interrupted when the girls’ relatives arrived and were reunited with them. Tears flowed as they hugged their children.

“We can all see the joy and emotions of the parents,” Information Minister Lai Mohamed said.

Mr Lai said that talks with the Islamists would be ongoing “until all the girls

have been released”.

“Very soon, another batch, bigger than this would be released,” Mohammed said.

Despite winning back swathes of territory from the jihadists, Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari had faced intense criticism for failing to recover the young captives, who became the defining symbol of Boko Haram’s brutal campaign to establish a fundamentalist Islamic state in the country.

The insu rgency has claimed more than 20,000 lives and displaced 2.6 million people from their homes since Boko Haram took up arms against the Nigerian government in 2009.

AFP

housands of Parisians round off a hard days work with a trudge up six flights of stairs to a tiny, stuffy room they resignedly call home.

In a city where it is notoriously difficult to find a flat – especially on a low budget and without the right paperwork – many rooms that once served as domestic helpers’ sleeping quarters have been turned into apartments for rent.

It is borderline illegal to rent out these micro-apartments, typically wedged under a rooftop, as they measure less than nine square metres and often lack proper ventilation.

But many people simply cannot afford any better, and some, like receptionist Ivan Lopez, face other barriers.

“I don’t have a guarantor, no relatives in Paris, and I have a foreign accent,” says Lopez, a 35-year-old of Mexican origin who rents a room measuring just 6.8 square metres for 370 euros (B14,508) a month.

Repeatedly turned away by rental agencies, he has been unable to find better lodgings for eight years.

Lopez’s bed, which doubles as a sofa and a storage space, is squeezed against an old fridge and a tiny shower stall.

“I work the night shift, and in the morning it’s really hot when I get back. I

can’t sleep in here,” he says.

Flats that were once sleeping quarters for domestic workers are a relic of bourgeois life in the 19th and early 20th centuries when they were referred to as “chambres de bonne” – maids’ rooms.

Astonishingly, they still fetch sky-high prices of up to 11,000 euros (B431,340) a square metre in Paris’s well-to-do neighbourhoods.

Victoire Ratrimoson, 67, was a modern-day version of the traditional “bonne” when she moved into her sixth-floor perch in the chic northwest in 2011.

Originally from Madagascar, she took a job as a domestic helper for a family living in the building.

But the family soon moved and tried to force her to leave.

“They told me, ‘We don’t require your services any more. We’ve found someone who charges 400 euros (B15,685) a month,” Ratrimoson says as her eyes well up with tears.

For lack of anything better, Ratrimoson is clinging to the tiny space measuring 7.5 square metres, with no ventilation or heating.

“I don’t really live here, I just sleep here,” she says, standing in a room with shelves packed right up to the ceiling.

Like Lopez, Ratrimoson is holding her breath in the hope that authorities will officially declare her home to be uninhabitable.

That would make their expulsion illegal and in turn force the owners – or the state – to find them proper housing.

According to the Abbe Pierre Foundation, a French NGO that fights for the rights of people living in substandard housing, authorities are dragging their feet on the issue.

“Today, there are some 7,000 domestic helpers’ rooms that serve as people’s main place of residence, and which measure less than nine square metres. Still, in most cases, the state has not declared them uninhabitable,” says the foundation’s Sarah Coupechoux.

The government’s health agency for the Paris region says that around 50 of these rooms are declared uninhabitable each year, and the number is on the rise.

Agency official Emmanuelle Beaugrand says an administrative court decided in 2013 that insufficient size is not the only criterion for declaring a space unfit for habitation.

“For a room measuring seven to nine (square) metres, we no longer issue such orders systematically.

Other criteria need to be met too, such as inadequate ventilation or layout,” she says.

Hou si ng d e pu t y a t Paris city hall Ian Brossat pledges to put in place a plan “very soon” to reform these spaces.

AFP

In Paris, where it is notoriously difficult to find a flat, many rooms that once served as domestic helpers’ sleeping quarters have been turned into apartments for rent.

Photo: Pauline Froissart/AFP

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

BUSINESS NEWS 13

World’s Loathsome Bank PHUKET EXPAT FINANCE

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as HSBC let you down? If so, you are not alone. In January 2012, HSBC announced it would close its retail branches in Thailand, and sell its consumer business to Krungsi Group (parent of Ayudhya Bank). This affected thousands of expats who had used HSBC in Thailand, at home and/or offshore, because of the ease of having just “one” bank.

Some of these customers were about to learn the term “de-risking”, which basically meant they were also going to lose their other HSBC accounts.

Sadly, the story of HSBC’s indifference to their customers is as global as the bank itself.

The world’s fourth largest bank by assets, HSBC has for years called itself “The World’s Local Bank”. Its numerous branch offices throughout the world added to the myth that this “big boy bank” really was there for the little guy, too. For once, a company seemed to be living up to its marketing slogan.

HSBC commenced operations in Hong Kong in 1865.

This bank with mercantile origins eventually became one of the leading retail banks in the world, allowing customers to move around the world and continue to bank with HSBC in each location. How convenient was that?

Oil and gas workers, often working in places where it was undesirable to bank in the local currency, could opt for an HSBC Offshore account. This allowed them to keep their money in Sterling, while linking them directly to the BACS electronic payment system in the UK. They could pay their mortgage, council tax or even utility bills on their home in the UK – for free – from their HSBC account in the Isle of Man, Jersey or Guernsey.

How then did HSBC, in a relatively short period of time, go from the World’s Local Bank to the World’s Loathsome Bank?

One could argue that it started around 2008. Whether related to the financial crisis, or not, HSBC Offshore banks in the British Isles raised their minimum current account balance from £1,000 to £25,000.

For many, a high minimum balance and the penalties imposed when the balance fell below £25,000 were an annoyance. Thus began the “cull” of HSBC’s retail clients in the offshore market.

In 2011, HSBC sold its @thephuketnews

HSBC, which once touted itself as the ‘World’s Local Bank’, has gained a notorious reputation over the past few years for huge breaches of banking regulations. Photo: AFP Japanese private banking arm to Credit Suisse. The following year came the sale of its operations in Thailand. In 2016, HSBC announced they would close their doors in Brunei, Turkey and Brazil.

Many account holders in these countries have been left in the lurch. As a foreigner, it is not always easy to open a new bank account – especially today. In some countries, if you do not have the backing of a multinational organisation you are likely to be rejected.

In 2014, some UK customers were prevented from withdrawing monies from their accounts unless they could provide evidence as to their reason for wanting the money.

It didn’t matter that these customers were withdrawing their own money from their own accounts.

The branch closures, account closures and restrictions continue to this day. But why is

HSBC doing this? Is the bank struggling financially? Not exactly. Its pre-tax profits for the first half of 2016 were US$9.71 billion – while tabling plans to cut 8,000 jobs in the UK. In recent years the source of HSBC’s “strong revenue” has slowly come to light, as their highly profitable (but legally ambiguous) activities began to result in fines from governments around the world.

As one former US Senate investigator put it: “They violated every goddamn law in the book.” A list of “indiscretions” was recently published by Forbes magazine (the notations of reported fines paid, fines payable or investigations still pending are our own). Some highlights include: • Rigging of London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), European Interbank Offered Rate (EURIBOR) and other benchmark interest rates. Status: Pending. Forbes estimating

the LIBOR Rigging scandal could result in penalties exceeding the amount paid out in asbestos lawsuits. For the record, the sum total awarded in asbestos lawsuits to date is over US$250 billion in the United States alone, with billions more expected to be paid out.

• Conspiring with other banks to rig benchmark FX rates. In November, 2014 fined $275 million in the US and £216m in Britain. Further investigations continue.

• In 2012, the US Justice Department announced that for

violating the Bank Secrecy Act, the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the Trading with the Enemy Act, HSBC would pay US$1.9 billion. Additional private lawsuits are still pending.

And in the granddaddy of them all…

• HSBC is one of many banks implemented in the Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) Mis-Selling Scandal. HSBC has already set aside nearly £3bn to compensate clients’ PPI claims. This figure is expected to rise.

If HSBC were a person, that rap sheet would have already seen it put it behind bars for life – and it is by no means even the full list of fines HSBC has paid in the last decade. (A more comprehensive – but nowhere near complete – list is available in the online version of this article.)

In the wake of so much scandal, HSBC is obviously going out of its way to avoid controversy… right? Well, that depends on your definition of “avoid”.

Enter the Panama Papers, which revealed that over the past 40 years approximately 2,300 companies set up by

Mossack Fonseca were clients of HSBC or one of its affiliates.

Embarrassingly, one of those clients was its own CEO, Stuart Gulliver, who admitted to using a Panamanian company and Swiss bank accounts for some of his pay when he was based in Hong Kong.

So what have we learned?

HSBC can cheat pensioners, destroy the lives of home owners, launder money for drug dealers, funnel money to suspected terrorists, and then proceed to shut down the accounts of honest individuals and companies because the bank wants to “de-risk” its balance sheet.

It is the ultimate tragicomedy – you truly do not know whether to laugh or cry at the absurdity.

Phuket Expat Finance can help you obtain a valuation and provide you with a riskfree assessment of your final salary scheme. We would be happy to provide you with a no-obligation written report, and advise you on all the options available to you should you wish to consider a transfer. Email us at chatwithus@ phuketexpatfinance.com

14 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

Due diligence and leases Two key points Thailand property investors should be aware of of the company is required.

LAW

A “lease” does not “own”

Duensing Kippen

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s a general matter, real estate in Thailand can be an excellent investment. Unfortunately, however, horror stories are not rare enough. But if you adhere to our “nine points”, such tragedy can be avoided. Here are two key points to beware:

Do your due diligence

Due diligence means checking for negative legal issues with the property you are planning to buy. Due diligence is a must anywhere in the world, but especially here in Thailand.

Once you’ve bought the property you’ve also bought any legal liabilities it might have.

More than once we have heard a purchaser tell us they did have a due diligence done, with quotes such as, “My lawyer got a copy of the deed from the land office and translated it. It showed the seller was the owner and there was no mortgage on the property.” That, is not due diligence.

Before inking any property contract in Thailand, have qualified legal counsel perform true due diligence on the property – and remember that what you lease, you do not own. Photo: GraphicStock The minimum essential components of a real estate due diligence should include: • A full check of the entire history and validity of the title deed. Just because the deed has been issued does not mean it was legally issued. A current title deed can later be found to be legally invalid. That can and does happen in a number of ways.

• Verification that the property has legal access rights; • If you are planning on building on the property, a full report on all land use laws and regulations governing

construction on the land; • If there is already a building on land, a villa perhaps, then a check into the legal validity of the structure’s building permit. Just because a building has a building permit does NOT make it legal and if it is not it can be ordered demolished.

• If you are planning on purchasing a property that requires special licensing like a condominium or a unit in a building that will also function as a hotel, then verify the project is planned or built to properly qualify for such licensing. This does happen

even in high-end projects where you would not expect it. For example, in Phuket a project was marketed and sold as a seaside condominium development that won awards for “best condominium project”, only later it was “discovered” its access was not wide enough to qualify for a condominium license. It is now a hotel; and • If you are planning on “buying” a property by buying a company that owns such property (something that is generally not recommended) then a check of all corporate, accounting, and legal records

Because foreigners are generally restricted from owning land in Thailand they commonly enter into a lease for such property instead. It is important to understand that leasing a property is not the same as owning it. Leasing is “renting” something pursuant to the terms and conditions of an agreement or contract with the person who really owns it. If you break any terms of your lease agreement the real owner can terminate the agreement and evict you from the premises.

Hence, a lease is just a contract to use something in exchange for payment – but for how long? A peculiarity of Thai law is that real estate can be leased for a term of no longer than 30 years. Such a term can be renewed by means of a “renewal clause” in the lease contract. However, and crucially, if the real owner (the lessor) changes (that is: dies, goes out of business, sells the property, etc) during the lease,

then the new real owner will not be bound by the renewal clause.

This means common real estate leases with renewal clauses in Thailand are not a long-term secure investments.

As a result many developments market to foreigners what they call a “secured” or “collective” lease. It is neither of those.

If you want to invest in a long-term lease, a better and completely legal and secure structure for your investment, renewal terms, and resale value is easy enough to arrange through experienced legal counsel.

Beware that what you lease, you do not own.

Stay tuned for more on the “Dos and don’ts of real estate in Thailand” in our next article in this series.

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

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

Footballer adopts child from Thai orphanage

22

A gourmet railway journey in Japan

23

ANCIENT ARTS

Take a journey into the past at this sprawling antique emporium > P17

@thephuketnews

Alissa Sim, Manager of the family-owned Chan’s Antique House, shows us around her home.

16 DINING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

A dish’s best sidekick

Enjoyed countrywide, nam phrik might be Thailand’s true national dish Suthon Sukphisit editor1@classactmedia.co.th

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hat is Thailand’s national dish? This question could bring many answers: pad Thai, tom yum kung, tom khaa kai, kaeng massaman kai, kaeng pad pet yang, kaeng khio waan luk chin plaa kraai – the list goes on, depending on who you ask. But one food that could never be left out, and perhaps the one with the greatest claim of all to the title, is nam phrik, the collective name of Thai chilli dipping sauces.

Thais have eaten a great variety of nam phrik for many generations. These dishes are made in every part of the country, and are prepared in almost every Thai household throughout the year. Ingredients are easy to find and usually right at hand, and preparation is mostly simple and requires little time. When compared with other dishes, pad Thai, curries and others that might qualify as national dish candidates can be seen as more complicated and time-consuming to make.

Furthermore, not all of them are eaten in every part of the country in the way that nam phrik dishes are. People in the north and Issan eat very little coconut cream, so dishes that include it cannot really be considered a national favourite.

Nam phrik dishes are special because, besides being delicious, they are always eaten with vegetables that add to their food value. No matter how much the tastes of the vegetables may vary, they will go well with and be complemented by nam phrik.

Nam phrik is enjoyed by people in all age groups and social classes, and is very satisfying. A small bowl of the sauce, some fresh vegetables and rice are all that are needed to make a meal.

The taste of nam phrik combines sourness, saltiness, sweetness and chilli heat in varying proportions. Basic ingredients are usually chillies – either dried or fresh ones of the phrik khee nuu (mouse poo chilli) or phrik chee faa (sky pointing chilli) varieties – onion, garlic, kapi (shrimp paste), lime juice

or sour tamarind water, nam plaa (fish sauce) and palm sugar. The balance of these components’ tastes can vary with regional preferences, with each version having its own special qualities and character.

There are many different types of nam phrik. Most prominent are the ones that take a liquid or wet form.

These are made with fresh chillies, either phrik khee nuu or phrik chee faa.

One nam phrik of this type that is extremely popular in the Central region and the South is nam phrik kapi, made from garlic, kapi, phrik khee nuu, palm sugar, lime juice and nam plaa. When preparing it, some cooks pound the garlic and the kapi very quickly and vigorously to reduce the smell of the kapi, then add the chillies, lime juice, palm sugar and nam plaa.

They may also put in small makhuea phuang (small, pea-like eggplants that grow in clusters) that have been pounded lightly to burst them. The finished sauce will then have a bitter tang from the eggplants.

Others may also add slivers of the sour fruit called taling pling for thickness. When eating nam phrik kapi like this, people can enjoy the texture of the added vegetable or fruit as an alternative to a simple liquid sauce.

Cooks in the south do not add the eggplants or taling pling, but instead put in shrimp that has been dried by putting them on wooden skewers and then either baking them dry or smoking them (as differentiated from the usual method of just sun-drying them). This variant is called nam phrik kung siab.

Another central region liquid or semi-liquid nam phrik is nam phrik plaa raa or nam phrik plaa thuu yang.

It is made from grilled ingredients – shallots, garlic and chillies (phrik chee faa) – all of which are pounded together to a coarse consistency. Then a little kapi and some boiled liquid from plaa raa (fermented fish) are put in, followed by grilled mackerel meat that has been removed from the bones and pounded.

Finally lime juice and palm sugar are added as seasoning.

Nam phrik noom is a wet nam phrik cooked in the north and made

Nam phrik is said to have over 120 variations throughout the length and breadth of Thailand. from fresh chillies. It is very easy to prepare. Chillies of the phrik chee faa type, or the kind called phrik noom – which are larger, longer and hotter – are grilled and then pounded with grilled garlic and grilled shallots. Then some lime juice and salt are added, and the dish is ready.

Nam phrik khai puu, made with sea crab eggs, is a semi-liquid nam phrik native to Eastern Thailand. It is fragrant and not especially spicy.

There are also dry types that are made with dried chillies. Those who do not like extremely spicy food usually opt for dried phrik chee faa, while those who prefer fiery dishes will use phrik khee nuu. The list of dry nam phrik of this kind is a long one, and variations can be found in every part of Thailand.

They are widely eaten, and although they can take longer to make than the liquid types, they can be stored for longer periods of time.

The flavours of dry nam phrik, like those of the liquid types, combine sourness, saltiness, sweetness and the spiciness of chilli. The dried chillies have to be pounded fairly fine, but if the pounding is done by hand, some pieces of chilli skin will remain. These are not seen in commercial nam phrik where the peppers have been pounded mechanically in factories. Then grilled shallots, grilled onion, grilled kapi, palm sugar, nam plaa and sour tamarind water are added. Some households also like to add finely chopped sour tamarind to give the nam phrik a dryer, stickier consistency.

Dry nam phrik like these can have a great range of tastes and aromas.

Nam phrik maeng da, for example, is made by taking a fragrant water bug called maeng da that has been salted for preservation and pounding it into the chilli sauce. Admirers of this dish enjoy it because it has an aroma differ-

ent from that of any other nam phrik.

It is hard to find these days, however, because the maeng da needed to make it is becoming scarce, and appears only seasonally.

Dry nam phrik that uses dried or crisp-dried fish, with the meat removed from the bones, have the flavour and aroma of the fish combined with seasonings.

There are also recipes made with chopped plaa raa (fermented fish). The ingredients include the fish, grilled dried chillies, grilled onions, grilled garlic, galangal, lemon grass, makrood lime (kaffir lime) zest, salt, sour tamarind and palm sugar. Once all of these have been pounded together, the mixture has to be fried until dry. The result is a delicious nam phrik that is rather hard to find these days.

One thing that all nam phrik have in common is a strong, usually spicy taste.

For the proper harmony of flavours, they should be eaten with fresh vegetables, with a spoonful of nam phrik always followed by a bite of vegetable.

This healthy combination of flavours and textures is familiar to and beloved by all Thais. The credentials of nam phrik as Thailand’s national dish would be hard to challenge.

A vendor selling grilled fish with nam phrik. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

EXPLORE 17

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

Alissa Sim grew up surrounded by antiques and Buddhist art.

The iconic building sits about 3km north of Sam Kong junction on the bypass road.

Delving into the past This Phuket antique store is a treasure trove of exquisite religious and cultural artefacts

Mark Knowles editor1@classactmedia.co.th

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ike me, you have probably driven past Chan’s Antique House (the traditional Thai-style wooden building shrouded in tropical greenery on the bypass road) hundreds of times and thought to yourself, “I really should stop to have a look, but I’m in too much of a hurry.”

Recently, my curiosity finally got the better of me, so I turned out of the hectic traffic and down into the building’s peaceful gardens. Walking up the steps to the entrance – past antique Buddhist sculptures, an intricately carved teak spirit house and an enormous bronze temple bell – the noise of the road faded away and I felt like I was entering a temple.

This feeling was understandable, when I discovered that inside the sprawling multi-room building are hundreds, if not thousands, of Buddhist and Asian artworks sculpted from teakwood, marble, stone, or skilfully hammered out of bronze and silver.

On the day I visited I was fortunate to meet Alissa Sim, whose parents founded the business 33 years ago.

She kindly sat with me to chat about the history of the family-run business and how their impressive stock was amassed over the years.

As it turns out, Alissa’s father built the business from scratch, starting out from a tiny shop front on Rassada Rd in Phuket Town to become Phuket’s largest antique store, housing an unparalleled collection of precious antiquities sourced from all over Asia.

“We started out mostly selling fabrics, wooden carvings and other handicrafts from northern Thailand, now I would say we are one of the top five antique shops in Thailand,” said Alissa.

Alissa’s father, the eponymous Mr Chan, was originally in the shipping business and he used his contacts to begin bringing commodities down from northern Thailand. Before long, with the help of a business friend who invested in the venture, he began to bring @thephuketnews

These intricate silver angel figurines are stunning in their detail and craftsmanship. antiques and handicrafts from northern Thailand and Burma to Phuket to feed the rising demand of tourists.

“A friend of my father helped him bring some antiques to the shop because he did not have a lot of money to buy antiques at the time, they sold quickly and for a good price, so he realised that it was a good business to be in,” said Alissa.

Starting at the little shop in Phuket Town, the business went from strength to strength, moving to successively larger premises until Mr Chan decided to take the plunge in 2003 and construct the purpose-built building which houses Chan’s Antique today. The shop also serves as a home for the Chan family, “We live here, this is our home,” said Alissa.

When he retired, Mr Chan handed over the day-to-day management of the shop to Alissa. Having grown up surrounded by antiques, – sometimes accompanying her father on trips to northern Thailand and Myanmar to source them – Alissa has a keen eye for beautiful objects. Over the years her family have kept many of the most beautiful and rare pieces to add to their private collection, some of which are displayed in the shop for the pleasure of visitors.

Alissa and family in front of one of the earlier shops.

“We travel north about twice a year to select pieces for the shop. Sometimes we find things that we don’t want to sell, so we keep them,” she said.

Many of the objects on display for sale at the shop are Buddhist icons and temple artefacts, some of them as many as 200-years-old. There are hundreds of unique items – statues of Buddha, temple bells and alms bowls, lacquer betel-nut boxes, religious and folkloric figurines, exquisite teak furniture, fine porcelain, paintings, fabrics and decorative wall carvings. It is like a walking through a museum, with the added bonus that you can take home a particular item if it takes your fancy.

However, due to Thailand’s strict laws regarding the sale or removal of Buddhist images from the Kingdom,

many of the oldest antiques in the collection are sourced from Myanmar.

“Most of them are Burmese because, as many experts know, Burmese carving is of a very high quality and very detailed. Burmese art also shares many similarities with Thai art,” said Alissa.

She went on to explain that the slight differences in the features of Buddha statues can tell you much about their origin and age, with each region and culture having developed a unique, but similar style of religious art.

“Nowadays it is very difficult to find Thai antiques, but because we have our collection which we bought over many years, we still have some Thai pieces,” said Alissa.

There are also scores of items that, while not technically antiques (i.e more than 100 years old), provide a fascinating glimpse into the everyday lives of Thai people over the last several hundred years. Elaborate lacquer-ware betel nut boxes and scissors for chopping betel are common items – demonstrating the deep tradition of betel nut chewing that continues to this day in Myanmar and India, but has all but died out in modern, urban Thailand.

After being shown around the amazing collection by Alissa, although I didn’t intend on buying anything, I found I couldn’t resist taking home something.

I settled on a small bronze figurine of Ganesh, the Hindu God widely revered in Thailand and worshipped as the remover of obstacles and a patron of letters and learning.

I certainly don’t regret my spontaneous decision to turn into Chan’s Antique House. The Ganesh statue now sits on my car’s dashboard as a reminder of that day, and I look forward to returning again to browse the countless beautiful items and pick out another to decorate my house. So next time you are heading along the bypass road, I suggest you take a look, you never know what you might find.

18 EDUCATION

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

Planting the seeds of change Teaching gardening to children provides them with important life skills Normita Thongtham editor1@classactmedia.co.th

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here is a question asked time and again on Facebook: “Should children be taught how to grow their own food as part of their schooling?”

From grade school to college, I learned how to do needlework, sewing, weaving and basketry as part of our vocational education. However, it was gardening when I was in Grade 5 that had a lasting effect on me. I excelled in all other subjects but I found needlework and sewing tedious, and I hated weaving and basketry.

Gardening was different, it was fun.

Our class was divided into groups of four pupils, and each group had a plot to tend. We cultivated the soil until it was even, then using a string strung from one end of the plot to the other to make the line straight, we sowed seeds, three to a hole. While the other groups planted eggplants, tomatoes, bitter gourd or okra, my group sowed stringbeans.

Gardening was fun because it was a group effort. We took turns fetching water from a well to water the plants, and while the girls weeded the plot, the boys procured bamboo poles to be used as stakes. It was fascinating to see a seed germinate and grow into a vine, climb the stake, then bear flowers and fruit. Fresh from the vine, our stringbeans were sweet and nutritious, but more importantly, they gave us a sense of accomplishment. Gardening in school taught us children a lifetime vocation, not to mention the meaning of unity and close cooperation.

Gardening can also help children learn cooperation.

The Agriculture for School Lunch Project, initiated by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, teaches schoolchildren in border and impoverished areas to grow vegetables, which they then cook for lunch. For some of the children, it is their only substantial meal of the day, but the knowledge they gain puts them in better stead than their city-bred peers.

By teaching children to grow their own food, we arm them with a skill that is far more important than any profession. Farmers may stop producing food, truckers may stop transporting farm produce to markets, or there may be a shortage of certain crops in the market, but our children will never go hungry if they know how to grow their own food.

Montessori schools run by the OB (Operation Brotherhood) Montessori Centre in Manila are located in cities but they teach schoolchildren economic independence through agriculture, among other means. Children in kindergarten are taught to care for their own potted plants and the different parts of a flower and a tree. By grade school they know the function of each part, and as they move up to high school they learn to propagate plants by tissue culture. When they graduate, those who want to go into the plant business already know how to propagate plants by the hundreds, if not thousands, through tissue culture.

“The Montessori system of education is based on the premise that children have absorbent minds, and the most receptive stage is from the age of three to six,” the school’s founding president, Preciosa Soliven, explained.

The school has a demonstration farm where children are taken on field trips or camping to learn how to mix soil and organic matter, and pot ornamental plants as part of their handson training.

The main school in Greenhills is attended by the children and grandchildren of the elite in Philippine society, who have housemaids and gardeners working for them. But in school, the children have fun dirtying their hands, potting plants and learning a meaningful lifelong hobby, if not occupation.

Gardening, however, is not only learned in schools. Douglas Lambert, a retired schoolteacher who lives in New

Gardening allows children to have fun while they learn.

Zealand, learned gardening as part of the curriculum when he was in elementary school. He grew up to be a keen gardener, growing a collection of his own herbs that includes parsley, rosemary, thyme and coriander.

“I have grown lettuce, beans and tomatoes as well as bok or pak choy in containers. Silver beet is always a great standby, especially here during our winter months,” he said.

“It [gardening] died out of the schools so we have a generation of children who (unless their parents were gardeners) didn’t know a carrot from a lettuce.”

But it was not the end for his own children. As soon as they could walk, he gave them their own little garden and taught them the cycle of plant life in general terms.

“My older son Jon had his own little set of children’s garden tools (metal and wood, not plastic junk of today) and would help me in the garden,” he recalls.

“At 18 months old, he had his own plot and I gave him seeds such as radish and cress so that there was quick germination and very quick results/satisfaction in getting his plants to grow.

“Very seldom do you see a delinquent gardener,” he added. Today his son Jon is one of New Zealand’s leading landscape architects.

If you know how to grow ornamental plants, then you know how to grow

Growing vegetables teaches self sufficiency. vegetables. They have the same basic requirements, namely, well-drained soil, full sun, nutrients, air and water.

You can even plant your vegetables with your ornamentals. Marigolds planted side by side with the vegetables keep pests away, as well as add colour to the garden.

Teaching them how to beautify their surroundings and to grow their own food is the best legacy that we can leave our children. What do you say, readers?

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

Slo-mo action

ART 19

Bernard Trink editor1@classactmedia.co.th

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he vast majority of people have not heard of Botswana, much less able to find it on a map. Try southern Africa. It doesn’t have oil or valuable natural resources. Still, it isn’t a basket case. Trade – agriculture, cattle – keeps its economy in the black.

Scotland’s Alexander McCall Smith pens novels about the bucolic life there.

It isn’t a backwater, the other end of nowhere. The populace are up on the three R’s – reading, ‘riting, ‘rithmetic.

They engage in business. There’s crime and bars. Just life in slow motion.

The author focuses on the women, middle-aged and decent for the most part, Mma Precious Ramotswe is the central character and the founder of the No.1 Ladies Detective Agency.

Business is slow, particularly during the hot month of October.

There are police, even a Botswana Defence Force. Yet like private eye agencies anywhere, they are hired to do things the regular cops don’t bother with. Waiting for a client, they sit in the office and talk about whatever comes to mind, apropos of nothing.

They exhaust and even argue why have contracts, won’t one’s word of honour suffice? When clients bring problems, Precious relies on her usual calm and common sense to settle them.

There’s the errant husband whose wife seeks a divorce to deal with. Then the plagiarising of her choice of names – The No.1 Ladies Secretarial College, whose principal lacks teaching qualifications.

Mma Ramotswe is due holiday time.

Ought she rest up at home or visit her cousin in the next town? She does both, but thinking about her cases keeps her awake.

One especially. A prostitute who gave up her son to an orphanage. Mma Ramotswe resolves to reunite them.

How she goes about it in the later pages will bring a tear to your eye.

Professor emeritus of medical law at the University of Edinburgh, Smith has written four score books to date (not all set in Botswana). His is an acquired taste, yet an easy read. Have a look-see.

The Woman Who Walked In The Sunshine

by Alexander McCall Smith Argus 250pp.

Available at Asia Books and leading bookshops for B375.

Crime in London

Police everywhere have several assumptions, among them: when a wife is murdered the husband did it and when a husband @thephuketnews

Alexander McCall Smith has penned almost 100 books.

Both ‘The Woman Who Walked in Sunshine’ and ‘Friday on My Mind’ are available at leading bookstores. is murdered the wife did it. Another is that when either flees afterwards, it’s a sure sign of guilt. However, statistically it isn’t necessarily likely.

Crime thriller novelists pen stories about exceptions. The fugitives who are innocent don’t want to be railroaded to the supreme penalty, and they conduct their own investigation while on the run.

In such books they succeed in the penultimate chapter after a showdown with the actual killer.

Friday On My Mind follows this formula. The reader may be unaware that Nicci Gerard and Sean French aren’t one person but two, a wedded couple who combined their names into a single pseudonym. The couple, professional journalists living in the UK, have 15 books to their credit.

Their literary creation Frieda Klein is the carry-over, divorced, a mother and she’s a therapist (doctor). The Metropolitan Police consult her. No romantic involvement. When she thinks of Sandy, her bad memories outweigh her good. With mixed feelings she is asked to identify his body.

A floater in the Thames, brutally

beaten, it’s Sandy all right. To Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Hussein, the victim’s ex is the most likely suspect, looking elsewhere a futile exercise. When Frieda does run, what more proof does she need?

Frieda has her reasons for running.

It’s evident to her that she’s being framed. The authors devote 400 pages to her pursuit. Changing her name to Caria, circumstances have her becoming a nanny. A woman pushing a buggy is ignored.

Surprisingly, another DCI believes she is innocent. In the event, the killer tracks her down first. The penultimate chapter climax is sanguinary.

Londoners are a varied lot and we get to meet them, likeable and not. Friday On My Mind makes you feel you’re on the embankment.

Friday On My Mind by Nicci French Penguin 440pp. Available at Asia Books and leading bookshops for B350.

PHUKET UNITES TO HONOUR HIS MAJESTY

Phuket officials gathered at Phuket Provincial Hall.

Mourners at Phuket Provincial Hall.

Above, centre, below: Phuket residents gathered at Saphin Hin Beach to light candles in the shape of a heart to show their respect for HM King Bhumibol.

Members of the Phuket Police gathered at Phuket Provincial hall.

Memorial books were signed at Phuket Provincial Hall.

Staff from the Hilton Arcadia Phuket.

Mourners sign a book of condolence at Phuket Provincial Hall.

Staff from Angsana Laguna Phuket.

Staff from Phuket International Airport.

Children joined their parents in signing the book.

Staff from Phuket International Hospital.

Tears flowed across the island.

Staff and faculty from United World College Thailand (UWCT)

Mourners at Phuket Provincial Hall.

A symbolic washing of HM King Bhumibol’s body.

Members of Phuket’s religious community gather to pay their respects to HM King Bhumibol.

22 COMMUNITY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

Couple find their precious gem Footballer Matt Smith and his wife adopted a child from a Thai orphanage

M

att Smith remembers the grim scene vividly – a baby being cradled by his five-year-old sibling, the oblivious mother lying drunk in the gutter.

That was nine years ago in Siem Reap, Cambodia, the day the Thai Premier League star and his future wife Aicha, then backpacking around Southeast Asia together, vowed one day they would do something for one of the world’s less fortunate children.

As the years passed and Smith’s football career and home life blossomed in Australia, that dream was put on the back-burner – until he and his young family moved to Thailand last year when the former Australian international player signed a contract with Bangkok Glass.

Six months into their move, with Aicha volunteering to help kids in the Klong Toey slums, Smith, 34, saw a TV program on orphans in Thailand.

That’s when they were moved to finally take action.

A year later, they are now the proud parents of Ruby, a two-year-old girl abandoned by her birth parents after a few days, who previously lived in the Khaen Thong Children’s Home in Khon Kaen.

The Smiths, who already have three of their own children, finally took Ruby home in May, and have watched her develop physically and emotionally at a rapid rate since.

“That day when we were backpacking in Cambodia stuck in our memories,” he says. “We went to the local 7-Eleven to buy milk and fruit for the children. After returning to our hostel, I didn’t realise that Aicha, who was just a friend at that point, had gone back to leave them money after going to the ATM machine.

“It was always in our long-term plan to do something for a child, but we just got on with our lives, until we

Matt in action for Bangkok Glass.

came to Thailand and it was the right time after we had three children of our own.

“Everyone says that Ruby is so lucky, but we feel like the lucky ones.

She completes our family. It’s been amazing to watch her develop since she’s been with us. When we first met her she wouldn’t smile. The staff did their best in the orphanage, but it lacks resources. She’s also put on 3 kilograms in weight with us, eating everything she can get her hands on, to the extent that we have to watch that very carefully.”

After making the decision to adopt, the Smiths went through an extensive bureaucratic process, which took months, completing embassy documents, police checks, references and medical, psychological and financial assessments.

Eventually accepted by the Thai government’s Child Adoption Centre, they were matched with Ruby in April, with the couple able to visit her the day after hearing the news as Smith coincidentally had a training camp with Bangkok Glass in Khon Kaen.

“We were full of nerves seeing her the first time, but also so excited,” the Bangkok Glass captain says.

“We did not know what to expect.

It was very emotional for me and my wife. All we wanted to do was take her home there and then, but we were not able to do that until everything had finally been approved.”

Over the following weeks, Smith managed to visit Ruby a further eight or nine times, including a four-day stint over Songkran, before they finally got the final go ahead to take her home in May. “It was pure happiness the day we were able to take her home for real,” he says.

“You could see in her eyes and her behaviour that she was quite nervous about getting on the plane – she had never left the orphanage before.

“We just wanted to cuddle and comfort her. Since she’s been with us over the last four months, the transformation has been amazing. She’s now speaking jargon English, and her brother and sisters have embraced her

Matt Smith with Ruby.

Happy family: Matt and Aicha Smith with their four children. Photos: Matt Smith into the family.

“Before she didn’t know how to hug – she would just leave her arms hanging down when we carried her.

But now she binds her arms like other children. She’s loving her play time and from being scared of the water, she loves swimming now. She’s had an amazing impact on all our lives.”

Smith, who has signed a two-year contract with Bangkok Glass, and his family are happily settled in Thailand,

a country he has previous links with.

Born in England, Smith represented Great Britain in the World Student Games in Bangkok in 2007, and backpacked around Southeast Asia, prior to emigrating to Australia with his parents.

A former trainee at Portsmouth FC in England before being released, Smith went on to have a successful football career in Australia with Brisbane Roar, winning the top-tier ALeague on three occasions.

His previous experiences in Thailand lured him back to the country when the Bangkok Glass opening arose, and he admits that one day he and his wife have a dream to help more abandoned children, possibly in the Land of Smiles.

“We have talked about one day opening an orphanage,” he says.

“It’s just a dream for now, but my wife in particular is very passionate about this issue.

“There is such need out there and just on the back of what we’ve done, we know of more couples who’ve applied to adopt a child. People think it’s impossible to do; as we’ve shown, it really isn’t and we would urge anyone who is interested to find out more and if they think they’re suitable, go for it.”

For more information visit: adoption. dsdw.go.th/inter-country.html thephuketnews

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TRAVEL 23

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

A gourmet rail journey on Kyushu’s Orange line

I

Orange Railway takes a slow and winding scenic route, with many stops along the way.

The word Hisatsu in Hisatsu Orange Railway is derived from the first kanji characters of the words Higo and Satsuma, the former names of Kumamoto and Kagoshima prefectures, respectively. Orange Railway comes from the area through which the trains run. It is a region famous for producing unique varieties of citrus fruits such as Banpeiyu, Bon-Tan, Ama-Natsu, Dekopon, Satsuma Mikan, and Kumquat.

The Orange Railway is a private enterprise set up in 2004. The railway’s shareholders include Kumamoto and Kagoshima prefectures (regional governments) and various towns and cities along its route. It has a very strong focus on being a local railway for the people with a real drive to develop tourism and local gastronomy.

On board, with lunch in the Orange Restaurant, the journey takes approximately four delicious hours. For me this was heavenly. Lots to see and do and lots of new tastes. Even plenty of new drinks for me to try.

On the train ride you can enjoy the spectacular coastline that borders the East China Sea as well as take in the wonderful views as you traverse through the citrus fruit farmlands which gives the railway it’s name.

We were told that during the journey we would make a number of stops at various stations and we will be presented with gifts. To receive these we Cherry trees in bloom at the keep tower of Kumamoto needed to bring along our Castle, near to where the Orange Railway begins. special gift vouchers that

’d heard a lot about the Hisatsu Orange Railway in Kyushu (Japan’s third largest island) and I was really looking forward to a unique, world-class experience.

I knew that the train was often fully booked, sometimes a year in advance, and reservations for the small but popular railway along Japan’s Kyushu West Coast were extremely difficult to come by. A good sign that this was truly a great railway journey in the making.

Japan’s rail system is legendary, the smooth, almost silent Shinkansens (bullet trains) that whisk you effortlessly along at 250 kilometres-per-hour or more, are testament to the importance of rail travel in Japan.

The Hisatsu Orange Railway stops at 28 stations between Yatsushiro in Kumamoto prefecture and Sendai in Kagoshima prefecture, a distance of 117 kilometres along the coastline of Kyushu. But unlike the Shinkansen that travels straight and fast as a bullet, the

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The Orange Restaurant train passes a magnificent view of the sea. Photo: Hisatsu Orange Railway

were beautifully presented, along with our boarding passes, at the start of our journey.

The gifts in many cases turned out to be local food items, many of them being made at the stations at which we stopped. This is the beauty of a gourmet railway journey.

We were treated to an array of absolutely delicious items, my favourites were Hinagu chikuwas (a kind of BBQ soft fish paste made into a roll); locally brewed beers and fruit juices; curry pan (a delicious deep fried, breaded beef curry samosa), and in Minamata, Cremia soft ice cream (famous throughout Japan).

As well as the treats we were also able to enjoy a very fine lunch in the Orange Restaurant, utilising produce sourced from local communities. This was a perfect example of CSR, how larger corporate businesses can make responsible choices to support smaller local industries, in a caring and sustainable way.

Rail travel is not all things to all men. For me I enjoy the luxury of kicking back, relaxing and letting the journey and the day unfurl. Fortunately, this time around, with no deadline or time sensitive appointments at the

other end. Unlike car and air travel, I could thoroughly enjoy the journey with very few do’s and don’ts to restrict my movement or social interaction. I could chat with my fellow passengers or not, I could walk around or not, I could take pictures or not, or just read... or not.

The idea of taking a nap never really occurred to me, I was much too interested in the journey and the views outside. It was more a case of carpe diem – seize the day! The choice and space was mine and it was bigger than just a seat.

It was a delightful journey and I didn’t want it to end.

About the author: Andrew J. Wood is a travel writer and a regular university guest lecturer. A long-time resident of Thailand, Andrew is a former hotelier and a Director of Worldwide Destinations Asia Co. Ltd., as well as the Immediate Past President of Skal International Thailand.

The Orange Railway

Length: 116.9 km Gauge: 1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in) Number of Stations: 28 Track: Single except between Yunoura and Tsunagi (double track) Electrification: 20 kV AC, 60 Hz

24 EVENTS

FRI

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

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.

21 OCT

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.

Sunday Brunch

Indian Curry Night on Fridays

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

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

Mussels night @ Shakers

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

SAT

Every Sunday from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM Enjoying an exquisite Sunday Brunch with a variety of seafood selection on ice such as crab, oysters, king prawns and more wide variety of cuisine available from classic dishes to signatures. Prices starting from 1,200++ Baht for buffet and free flow soft drinks. Reservations, HYATT REGENCY PHUKET RESORT, fnb. phuhr@hyatt.com, 076 231 234.

22 OCT

Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY

Come enjoy a Traditional Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Indulge in our Traditional Sunday Roast ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT for ONLY 395 Baht! Enjoy a Large ALL YOU CAN EAT selection of your favourites! 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.

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach

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, flavour-bursting chicken and more! 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.

Live Sports at Expat Hotel

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

SUN

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.

23 OCT

Sunday Fun Brunch

Phuket’s most popular brunch experience.

Seafood, live station, entertainment, kid’s corner and massage corner. From 1,650++ THB. 12.00 - 15.30. Reservation: info@xanabeachclub.com 076 358 500.

MON

24 OCT

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.

Cricket league every Sunday @ Alan Cooke Ground, Thalang

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.

Phuket Cricket Group (PCG) hosts the T20 Cricket League every Sunday at the Alan Cooke Ground in Thalang. Two games per day, starting at 11am 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.

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.

DAILY EVENT UPDATES ON Sunday Tapas

This is what Sunday lunches are meant to

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TUE

25 OCT

Public Speaking made easier

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

WED

EVENTS 25

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

26 OCT

All you can eat BBQ Ribs night

MON

31 OCT

Phuket International Sportfishing Tournament (PIST) 2016

Halloween Party

Do you love Halloween like we do? Join us this Halloween on Monday October 31st from 6pm-late at All Two Chefs Locations! Come indulge in a special Halloween Dinner! Enjoy our Special Lucifer’s Set Menu Including: Pumpkin Soup, Gambas Al Ajilo-Garlic Prawns, Pork Tenderloin Flambé With Sauce Diable with Roast Vegetables and Sweet Potatoes, Chocolate, Marshmallows and Fizzy Fruits ALL FOR ONLY 695 Baht! BOOK Your Table NOW by Phone. For More Info Checkout Our Website at www.twochefs.com Kata Beach 076-333-370, Kata Center 076-330-065, Karon 076-286-479, Patong 076-344-914.

FRI

WED

23 NOV

18 NOV

Registration is on the 23rd November 2016 from 4pm onwards. Location: Tamarind Bar & Grill in Chalong. The weigh 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. For more info visit www.phuket-international-sportfishingtournament.com The event is proudly supported

by Live 89.5 and The Phuket News.

THU

24 NOV

FRI

3 DEC

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.

Ocean Marina

The 3rd Bhut Jolokia ‘Ghost Chili’ Challenge

Every Wednesday! All-you-caneat Pasta and Pizza at Bellini

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

Navrang Mahal Indian Restaurant, Karon invites you to compete in their 3rd Bhut Jolokia “Ghost Chili” Challenge. Take up the challenge to finish a bowl of Ghost Chili Curry. Bhut Jolokia chili is rated as one of the world’s hottest chilies, 401 times hotter than Tabasco sauce. Fantastic Prizes to be won! Contestants are required to pay the buffet dinner charge of 499 baht. Limited contestants. Contact, info@navrangmahal. com or 076 286 464. Proudly supported by The Phuket News.

SUN

20 NOV

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

SUN

27 NOV

Black Tie Muay Thai III

Gloves and Gowns: Muay Thai Chic! Celebrities and experienced Muay Thai fighters from Phuket step into the ring for a good cause.

Guests will enjoy a drink reception, a delicious four course dinner and free flow beverages.

Booking is essential; please contact #076-278146 or email info@phukethasbeengoodtous. org. When: 3rd December 2016. Where: Outrigger Laguna Phuket. Tickets: B3,500 Donation. Proudly sponsored by Live89.5.

EVERY DAY

Dine 4 Pay 3 Oriental Buffet Dinner Extravaganza Embark on a journey to the four corners of Asia and enjoy a lavish array of Thai, Chinese, Japanese and other Oriental recipes. Develop your taste buds and experience new flavours; ranging from spicy curries to barbecued meats and local noodle plates, while watching our Chefs work their magic in the lively kitchen every Wednesday from 18:00 – 22:00 for THB 999 per person at Bubbles Restaurant, Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas. Reservations, Bubbles Restaurant, Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas, h8109@accor. com, 076 231 999.

@thephuketnews

Laguna Phuket Triathlon

Named “Best Amateur Sports Event of the Year in Thailand” at Sports Industry Awards & Conference 2016, Laguna Phuket Triathlon is a carnival of multisport fun and tri-related activities for you to enjoy at Laguna Phuket. Featuring a unique 1.8K swim, new 50K bike course and 12K run. 6K Fun Run is also available!Join us and take in the excitement of the #LagunaPhuketTri experience, rub shoulders with the pros and social events. Register now at: www.

LagunaPhuketTri.com 076-362 300 Ext.1408

RUN TO GIVE 2016

Venue: Bangwad Dam, Kathu, Phuket. Time: 5am - 9am. Categories: 3 Km - THB 250 / 10 Km - THB 350. • Beneficiaries: Maha Jakri Sirinthorn’s Children’s Project and Pun Fun Pun Yim. • Online Registration is extended until 25 November 2016: https://goo.gl/forms/PIQwUbN52cjksvCP2 Next registration/ pick-up/collection schedule is on 24 and 25 November 2016 at CENTRAL and 26 November at BANG WAD DAM KATHU. Contact number 076-370100, 076-371410, 076-335770-4. Proudly sponsored

by Live 89.5

7 Nights 7 Themed Dinners at Rim Talay

Make each night unique! Enjoy our themed dinners with the cool sea breeze. Curry Night @790 THB++, Thai International @750 THB++, Seafood BBQ @940 THB++, Thai Gala Dinner @690 THB++, Butcher Shop @market price, Ribs and Wings @620 THB++, Surf and Turf @950 THB++ Only in October, show the promo code: PMRTPN2016/1 to receive a 10% discount! For reservations, email rimtalay@amari. com or call 076 340106-14.

26 TIME OUT

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

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

2. Where would you find the 25km high Olympus Mons?

3. What type of cheese is made backwards?

4. How many paintings did Vincent Van Gogh sell in his lifetime?

5. What animal is the national symbol of Scotland?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

47. Abbreviation for wireless 1. Old oath technology 5. Brood 48. Roger Miller hit 9. Disorient 57. Takes it easy 14. Expert 58. Huge 15. About 59. Hubbub 16. Hit a low note?

60. Eyes 17. Egyptian fertility 61. Greek salad goddess ingredient 18. Navy commando 62. Head organs 19. Change 63. Growth 20. Symbol of 64. Dribble freedom 65. Schedule 23. Bordeaux position vineyard 24. Div. of Scotland Down Yard 25. ___ map 1. Sponsorship, var.

31. Witticism 2. Burst of wind 34. Tequila source 3. Horne solo 35. Elation 4. Type of jacket 36. “Goldberg 5. Charlatan Variations” 6. After-lunch composer sandwich 37. Turns over the 7. Fighter plane grp. controls 8. Cost to cross 40. In charge of 9. Protozoan 41. Pb 10. Vaulted 42. Idol text 11. Active sort messages 12. Fast time 43. Aussie outlaw 13. Water whirl Kelly 21. Pushes 44. Approximation 22. Arctic to 46. Beer belly Greenland

25. Append 26. Nose cone 27. No longer dirt 28. Be of one mind 29. They’re entered in court 30. Pays attention to 31. Kind of ray 32. Wedding band, maybe 33. “___ Calloways” (Disney film) 36. Fuels 38. “Peter and the Wolf” bird 39. Rice/Lloyd Webber work 44. Dish 45. Work boot feature 46. Friendly 48. Raindrop sound 49. Bats 50. Jewish month 51. Court figures 52. Rapier 53. Dietary, in ads 54. Roster abbr.

55. Poet and Painter, Joan 56. Once, long ago

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) 8 feet; 2) Mars; 3) Edam; 4) One - to his brother; 5) Unicorn

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

2.5

■■ Oct 21, 1520 Ferdinand Magellan discovers a strait now known as Strait of Magellan.

per cent of global trade consists of pirated products.

■■ Oct 22, 1964 Jean-Paul Sartre is awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, but turns down the honour.

6

hours is all it takes for the world’s deserts to receive more energy from the Sun than humans use in one year.

■■ Oct 23, 1946 The United Nations General Assembly convenes for the first time, at an auditorium in Flushing, Queens, New York City.

60

■■ O c t 2 4 , 1901 Annie Edson Taylor becomes the first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel.

minutes’ exposure to light outdoors per day is a risk factor for myopia, or nearsightedness.

1.65 million

■■ Oct 25, 1616 Dutch sea-captain Dirk Hartog makes second recorded landfall by a European on Australian soil, at the later-named Dirk Hartog Island off the West Australian coast.

children have started secondary school overweight or obese in England over the past decade.

2.1 trillion

US dollars would be added to the US economy if it increased the proportion of women who worked from 64% to just 74%.

Source: Uberfacts

This week in history

■■ Oct 26, 1979 Park Chung-hee, President of South Korea is assassinated by Korean Central Intelligence Agency head Kim Jae-gyu. Choi Kyu-hah becomes the acting President; Kim is executed the following May.

Ao Yon Bay. Photo by Lauren Jarman Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket?

Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

■■ Oct 27, 1904 The first underground New York City Subway line opens.

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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STORAGE Reserve Your Storage Space

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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 Boating deal of the year : 7.5m baht (reduced from 10m baht)

Due to serious health reasons, the owner must part with his beloved 80’ tour boat. New wiring throughout, power outlets, transformer and voltage meters. New upholstery throughout bar and entertainment area.

Engines & generator fully reconditioned & serviced.

All maintained to European standards. Ideal boat for quality day trip business. beachsando1@gmail.com, 080 695 3933.

Steel boat for sale

32 metre steel boat for sale. Built 2012, 2 x Cummings engines, 10hrs work only. International REG. Excellent for live-aboard or ferry. Price 6MB. Contact: call Joe 087 8918912 or email joe@similan-divers.com.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Beauty Salon with Equipment

For Sale, Nai Harn Beauty Salon with Equipment & lease, B290,000. Salon Equipment replacement cost is more than B300,000. All equipment shown as new. Must view to see excellent opportunity to purchase Salon for extremely good price in prime location. Call Nok for details 098 017 8818.

REST-BAR-LOUNGE -RAWAI BEACH

com, 092 526 0222.

Beautiful decoration-Private terrace-seaview-Sound system Led light-air conditioned-full equiped-400Sqm 2levelsParkings-Ready for work superstaronthebeach@hotmail.

Looking for investor / partner

Looking for investor / partnership for Patong beach front location to start with Japanese and Indian restaurant. Narin, narinpga@gmail.com, 081 826 9390.

Price reduced for quick sale

No, not a bar or guesthouse, but a manufacturing business for wooden window blinds. All the machinery and inventory of parts to be up and running in a matter of days. A very successful business in Phuket for over eight years. Price reduced to 2 mil Baht. Owner will partially finance. lamsden@phuketemail.com, 081 487 4812.

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. @thephuketnews

CLASSIFIEDS 31

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

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Buy&Sell

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/thephuketnews

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @thephuketnews

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Restaurant for sale in Rawai

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

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

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

t sa n e rg

U

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

MEMBERSHIPS Loch Palm Golf Membership

Lifetime Loch Palm Golf membership for sale. ฿485,000, the Loch Palm transfer fee of ฿72,000 will be shared equally between the buyer and seller.

Contact J. Trenton Early, jtrenton.early@gmail.com

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?

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 Ten Room Villa for sale

With 5 Rai land. 5 sleeping rooms, 5 bathrooms, 5 balcony, 2 kitchens, big living room, play room, lobby, car port. Hillside Maikhao Beach sunset seaview. Asking price 24 MB. julius_schuster2001@yahoo.de, 087 267 1192.

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 House for Sale

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

Land For Sale

Land for sale. Anuphas Golf Ville, Kathu. 81 sq wah. Golf course view of Phuket CC. Quiet village, convenient location.

E-mail for details Contact David, d1jarvis@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

COMMUNITY

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. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 33

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

Buy&Sell

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PROPERTY FOR RENT 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.

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.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

PROPERTY FOR SALE

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. B13,500,000, Antoine (Thai & English), 081 979 9307, dannyred@hotmail.com

Waterfront Condominium

The Cleat Condo, residence project in Krabi Boat Lagoon Marina.

Price 3-9MB, size 37-119 Sq.M., 1 or 2 bedroom, marina view. For rent/sale. marketing@phuketpropertytrip.com

Outstanding Beach Front Pool Villa

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

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.

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

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.

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. @thephuketnews

New Sea View Villa

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

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

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.

PROPERTY FOR SALE 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 Apartment for rent

Quality 1 Bedroom serviced apartment 65sqm for rent. Central Patong. Short or long term. For details email ianscondo21@gmail.com

Kata Western Apartment

1 and 2 115M2 furnished apartments, full kitchen, huge covered terraces, mountain and seaview.

1 month minimum, 1 year lease starting 20,000/month. gordy240@hotmail.com, 084 840 1262.

ROOM FOR RENT

Room for rent in attractive house Baan Manik (not far from Anthem wakeboard park). Convenient location for access to Laguna, Boat avenue, Airport and PIA. House is equipped with, Air-con, Internet, Expat-TV, foreign kitchen, washing machine, fridge ect ect. 8000 Baht PCM + Share of Bills. Please email bluebeyond@me.com or call 081 968 6051 for a viewing.

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.

PROPERTY FOR RENT Vassana Residence.

Rawai

Fully furnished 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom. WiFi and cable TV included in price. 160M.S. in size.

Jacuzzi in each Apartments. BBQ area on the roof.

Contact vassana.residence@gmail.com Art, Rawai / NaiHarn, Eng.087 882 9604.

Kamala Villa for rent

5 Bedrooms Villa available for long term, normally 10,000 Baht Nightly price Long lease 70,000 Baht monthly for 1 year minimum, Include pool, garden, courtyard maintenance. Suitable for large or two families. Wanphen, kamalagym2@ gmail.com, 080 697 7729.

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.

Villas & Apts Rent-Chalong

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

34 PROPERTY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

Sh t o or B tW ea a ch lk

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STUNNING SEA VIEW VILLA, Kalim 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 582 sqm

85,000,000 THB

A truly unique luxury villa with sweeping sea views of Patong Bay. Built with high quality materials and valuable furniture and artwork included in the price. Must-see property.

HIGH QUALITY POOL VILLA, Bang Tao 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 700 sqm

Situated within a peaceful 8 villa development in great location close to Bang Tao Beach. 3 well-appointed bedrooms with an open plan living room. Strong holiday rental demand.

17,400,000 THB

om fr s an ep ce St O 1 bedrooms, 1 bathrooms, 70 sqm

3,900,000 THB

In a unique location on millionaire’s mile this peaceful development has been immaculately maintained. Open plan living just 20 meters from the estate small private beach.

t en rg le U sa

FREEHOLD PENTHOUSE WITH PRIVATE POOL, Kamala 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 200 sqm

7,990,000 THB

In walking distance to Kamala Beach this well-priced penthouse offers 100 sqm internally and 100 sqm rooftop with pool and sauna. Proven track record of generating 600-800k net annual returns.

4-BED FAMILY HOME, Cherng Talay 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 327 sqm

Good location in a family friendly community. Low running costs and a communal right across the street. Upgraded kitchen with marble finishing and large fridge. Sold unfurnished.

5,570,000 THB

to Cl B ose ea ch

1-BEDROOM IN EXCELLENT LOCATION, Kamala

FREEHOLD 2-BEDROOM APARTMENT, Karon 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 156 sqm

On offer is a spacious 2-bedroom apartment. Just a few minutes from the sandy Karon Beach, this property is ideal both for residential use and a as holiday home. Excellent location at 68,000 THB per SQM

10,700,000 THB

e ic ed Pr uc d re

AFFORDABLE FREEHOLD 1-BED CONDO, Surin

IMPRESSIVE SEA VIEW APARTMENT, Ao Po

Top floor unit in an older building between Surin and Bang Tao. Terrace with pool view, open plan living room with small kitchen.

Sold fully furnished.

Situated in a quiet 32 apartment complex. Large terrace with a spectacular sea view with surrounding islands as a calming backdrop.

Well-managed estate.

1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 49 sqm

2,000,000 THB

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 160 sqm

8,500,000 THB

thephuketnews thephuketnews

PROPERTY 35

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, FRIDAY,OCTOBER OCTOBER21, 21,2016 2016 THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

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

POOL VILLA WITH ROOFTOP TERRACE, Bang Tao 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 284 sqm

9,700,000 THB

Conveniently located between main shopping area and Bang Tao beach, this pool villa was completed in 2006 and situated within a quiet gated community.

BRAND-NEW STUDIO, Surin

3,780,000 THB

Studio, 1 bathroom, 27 sqm

Offering an 8 % guaranteed return for 3 years this apartment was completed beginning of the year and situated near both Surin and Bang Tao Beach. Spectacular common area rooftop area.

NEW LAUNCH – AFFORDABLE CONDOS, Nai Yang 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom 36 SQM

Starting at

1.9M THB

Located near the green surroundings of Sirinat National Park and in walking distance to Nai Yang Beach, this affordable condo is ideal as a lock and leave holiday home. Set for completion in 2019.

SIZEABLE 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT, Layan 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom. 76 sqm

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

3,100,000 THB

4-BEDROOM VILLA WITH LARGE GARDEN, Paklok 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2400 sqm

Set on a sizeable land plot of 1300 SQM, this standalone property is situated in peaceful surroundings in Paklok.

8,900,000 THB

DUPLEX CONDO WITH JACUZZI, Patong 1 bedrooms, 1 bathroom. 87 sqm

Location does not get better. This freehold duplex is just steps from Patong Beach and walking distance all main amenities. Luxury development with excellent common area facilities.

9,800,000 THB

om fr ch s ea ep b St the

SEAVIEW 6-BEDROOM POOL VILLA, Layan 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 1003 sqm

45,000,000 THB

@thephuketnews @thephuketnews

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

TOWNHOUSE STEPS FROM LARGE POOL

2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 202 sqm

Just a few steps from the large communal pool this charming town home has been reduced from 11.5M to facilitate a quick sale. Sold with a golf membership and several Laguna benefits.

9,900,000 THB

36 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Pavit dedicates crown to HM the late King GOLF Bangkok Post

P

avit Tangkamolprasert dedicated his first Asian Tour victory at the Macao Open to the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej after prevailing over India’s Anirban Lahiri in a play-off on Monday (October 17).

The 27-year-old Thai and reigning Asian Tour No.1 Lahiri put on an exhibition of golf by shooting a seven-under-par 64 and 65 respectively in the final round to tie at 16-under 268 at the Macau Golf and Country Club.

Pavit, who ear ned US$S198,000 for his career breakthrough, triumphed in extra-time with a birdie on the par-five 18th hole after Lahiri, the 2014 champion here, found the water hazard with his second shot following an errant drive en route

to a bogey.

It was an emotional week for Pavit and the Thai players as the Thai King passed last Thursday (Oct 13) and Pavit believed the revered ruler was helping him all week.

“All the Thai players are very sad after hearing the news. The King is our inspiration this week, our life and this trophy is for the King. I dedicate this win to the King,” said Pavit.

Being the third Thai first-

time winner on the Asian Tour this season, Pavit added that he didn’t know Lahiri was on a birdie blitz and hot on his heels late in the day. “I didn’t see the scores on the back nine as there was no leaderboard.

“I had nothing to lose in the play-off. My caddie, my mum and dad texted me to say I had nothing to lose. Kiradech [Aphibarnrat] also sent me a message to say ‘Come on, you can do it’ and that was a big motivation for me.”

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 Run #1603: Saturday, October 22 Run Start Time: 3:30pm Hares: Gorgeous You ******, Lucky Lek, What-a-rat, Whata-**** (VH) Location: Cape Panwa Directions: Travel south on Sakdidejana Rd (main Road from Phuket town to Cape Panwa).

After left sweeping bend and the right sweeping bend pass Ban Ao Nam Bo School on your right.

Continue approx 770 metres and turn right into soi Pattana U-Tid (HHH). Continue 580m onto laager site on left (HHH).

Bus Pickup: Kamala (Black Cat’s Bar) 2pm & Patong (Expat Hotel) 2:30pm

Out of the Gate: Zoe Bowden is flying through the start of the season as the British

International School Phuket Triathlon High Performance athlete stood out at the Sprint Triathlon Asian Cup – ITU Hong Kong competition. She finished 6th at the Junior Elite category and 13th overall among all pro athletes on October 15.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

SPORT 37

Competitions called off

Sporting events cancelled, postponed as nation continues 30-day mourning ATHLETICS Bangkok Post

A

s the nation continues its 30-day mourning period after the death of His Majesty the late King last Thursday (Oct 13), all sporting events in the country have been either rescheduled or cancelled.

The 52nd anniversary of the founding of the Sports Authority of Thailand, which was initially planned for next week, has been rescheduled to take place on Dec 16, the same day as National Sports Day. In golf, five domestic tournaments including four on the Thai PGA Tour have been postponed.

The Phuket Open, initially slated for Oct 27-30, has been moved back to Nov 21-27 and the ninth leg of the tour to be held at Blue Sapphire Golf & Resort next week has also been put off.

The press conferences to announce the Thongchai Jaidee Invitation Golf Tournament and the Honda LPGA 2017 planned for the next week have been cancelled.

Muay Thai competitions at both Ratchadamnoen and Lumpini stadiums have been cancelled and action at the two Bangkok venues will resume on Nov 14 and Nov 15 respectively.

No boxing competitions are to be televised live on TV for 30 days as well.

Meanwhile, all remaining Thai League matches this season have now been officially called off as all but one of the 18 top-flight clubs on Monday (Oct 17) backed an earlier Football Association of Thailand’s decision to this extent.

The other competitions were also cancelled including the League Cup showdown as finalists SCG Muang Thong United and Buriram United were declared joint champions and will share the prize money.

All the remaining games this year were shelved last Friday (Oct 14), a day after the sad passing of His Majesty the late King, which plunged the whole nation into a state of mourning.

T he gove r n me nt ha s sought cooperation of all parties in the country to abstain from holding any ‘entertainment activities’ for a month as a mark of respect to the nation’s sentiments.

The FAT held a meeting on Monday to review last @thephuketnews

Following the death of His Majesty the late King, all sporting events have been cancelled. Photo: Valerio Spisani/Flickr Friday’s decision following protests from some clubs.

In Monday’s vote, Chonburi were the only club in the 18-team Thai League to voice opposition to the cancellation of the remaining matches.

The development reaffirmed the FAT’s earlier decision that Muang Thong, who lead the league standings with 80 points from 31 matches and are five ahead of Bangkok United, will be the new champions.

This also means that Chainat and Army United will join already-demoted BBCU in the second-tier League 1 next season.

T he FAT had second thoughts about its earlier decision when government spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd said last Saturday (Oct 15) that the scheduled football matches can continue during the official 30-day mourning period.

After Monday’s meeting, FAT president Gen Somyot Poompunmuang said, “The matter was reviewed and it was decided to uphold our earlier decision to cancel all remaining domestic matches until the end of this year.

“Representatives from all 18 Thai League clubs attended today’s meeting and 17 of them voted to cancel the matches.

Only one [Chonburi] voted to continue the competition.”

Somyot said sponsors and broadcaster TrueVisions also supported the cancellation.

Chonburi’s Media Director Jeerasak Chomthong said the Sharks wanted to continue the

competition because government spokesman Sansern had clearly stated that the scheduled football matches can continue during the mourning period.

Surprisingly Chainat, who voted in favour of the cancellation, were infuriated by the outcome.

“Is this fair to Chainat and Army?” asked Chainat vice-president Anirut Nakasai.

He said the Hornbills may disband the club or bring the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport or world football’s governing body FIFA. With th ree rounds of matches remaining this season, six other teams could be relegated.

Somyot added that the FA Cup title and prize money will be shared by the four semifinalists – Chonburi, Sukhothai, Chainat and Ratchaburi.

On the issue of expanding the top league, Somyot said nine clubs voted to keep the number at 18 teams, while six were in favour of increasing the total to 20 teams.

Somyot also revealed that Australia, who are scheduled to play a Group B match of the Asian qualifiers for the 2018 World Cup against Thailand on Nov 15 in Bangkok, are keen to have the game as scheduled.

“We have received the answer from the FFA [the Football Federation Australia] that they cannot accept any change to the match or to play it at a neutral venue, so we will have to go ahead and organise the match on

Nov 15,” said Somyot.

For League One, ThaiHonda, with 52 points after 26 matches, were declared the winners and promoted

to the Thai League along with Ubon UMT (49 points) and Port (47). No teams were relegated.

Sports Authority of Thai-

land governor Sakol Wannapong said last Thursday that the passing away of His Majesty the late King is the greatest loss suffered by all Thais, including the nation’s athletes.

Noting the late King’s tremendous commitment to helping people across the country, Sakol said, “Throughout his life, he did everything for his people.

“He performed as he promised and never abandoned his people.”

The SAT governor added that all Thai athletes have been inspired by the king, who also represented the country at the fourth SEAP (Southeast Asian Peninsular) Games (now the SEA Games) in 1967 won the gold medal in sailing on Dec 16.

To salute His Majesty the late King, National Sports Day has been held every year on Dec 16.

Sakol added that all the 76 provincial sports associations and their members would this week gather at the SAT compound to pay their respects to the late King.

38 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

Back to the top step Daniel Ricciardo’s love for UFC helps him with race approach EXCLUSIVE BOX OF NEUTRALS Michael Lamonato michael@boxofneutrals.com

“Y

ou’re basically trying to kill me, and I’m trying to kill you,” Daniel Ricciardo says, his eyes glowing with his trademark enthusiasm.

Sitting inside the Red Bull Racing suite at the Japanese Grand Prix, the Australian driver’s interview with The Phuket News has taken an unexpected turn.

“I love UFC – it’s the most pure form of sport because it’s man against man,” he clarifies.

Ricciardo’s love for the Ultimate Fighting Championship is one of his better-known extra-racing interests, but this isn’t some self-indulgent detour on his part; his passion for the mixed martial arts tournament is a key to his racing approach.

“I probably learn as much about [psychology] from watching other sports as I do from anywhere else.

“There’s no equipment, there’s no technology involved; it’s just purely physical and mental.”

The mental game has been increasingly important for one of the sport’s hottest properties.

His Red Bull Racing debut promised much and delivered three unlikely wins, but a poor car in 2015 smashed his and the team’s momentum.

Matters improved in 2016, but victory has proved painfully elusive.

In Spain, Daniel was accidentally dealt a slower strategy that enabled new teammate

Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo drinks from his shoe after winning the Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang on Oct 2. Photo: jiji/AFP Max Verstappen to claim his maiden win.

In the blue-riband Monaco Grand Prix, the team botched a crucial pit stop from the lead to hand Lewis Hamilton an easy 25 points.

For the f irst time the 27-year-old’s ordinarily smilepainted face was filled with stress and frustration.

“The dark side?” he says, casting his mind back. “Most times I’ve got a helmet on, so you can’t really see it, but, some things can upset me and piss me off. “ Mon a co wa s pret t y unique in the circumstances. I think it was probably as well that it had been so long since I had won … I felt like, ‘Okay,

I’ve done everything I can, it should have come already’.”

Succumbing to meltdown isn’t an unusual racing driver response – Lewis Hamilton’s recalcitrance with his Mercedes team since his engine caught fire in Malaysia being one example – but when other drivers wrap themselves up in the moment, Ricciardo refused to let himself be claimed by his dark side.

“It’s perspective,” he recalled. “I went back, I looked at the whole weekend, and up until the pit stop it was the best race weekend of my career.

“Everything was pretty much perfect – okay, there was a crucial moment, but I actually had to leave the

weekend happy because it was awesome.

“I think that’s the easiest way to move on.”

Critical to his recovery has been casting from his mind the pressure of comparing his results to those of his more decorated rivals – both Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton were world champions at 23 years old – to grow his capacity for self-evaluation.

“I think I’m more now taking [races] as I get there,” he said. “It’s just rock up, see how it goes and do what you can.

“Last year I learnt that.

It was a good thing because I was able to leave the track happy with a seventh place

because that’s all we could do that weekend.

“If seventh was the best, if I was getting seventh, then I was like, ‘Weather the storm while you can, get what you can out of it, and eventually when you win again it’ll be even sweeter’.”

The clouds finally parted in Malaysia, where Ricciardo was finally able to reclaim the top stop, the team harassed Hamilton’s leading Mercedes car to the point of engine failure.

It was a critical win on the eve of a tipped Red Bull Racing’s championship tilt in 2017 under new chassisfriendly regulation changes.

If the likely becomes re-

ality, the culmination of the last 24 months will be key to the Australian’s battle for supremacy against his feisty teenage teammate.

“It’s a bit like how I’ll approach a race weekend – I’ll come here and not really expect too much, I’ll just drive and see what happens!” he says simply. “I’ll deal with it if it comes or when it comes.

“Naturally the stakes rise, but it doesn’t necessarily mean what happens off the track has to change.

“I think what we’re doing right now is pretty good … so if we did and we’re winning races while doing it, I guess we’re probably maybe even happier. We’ll see!”

2016 DRIVER STANDINGS 1

NICO ROSBERG

GER

MERCEDES

313

2

LEWIS HAMILTON

GBR

MERCEDES

280

3

DANIEL RICCIARDO

AUS

RED BULL RACING

212

4

KIMI RÄIKKÖNEN

FIN

FERRARI

170

5

MAX VERSTAPPEN

NED

RED BULL RACING

165

6

SEBASTIAN VETTEL

GER

FERRARI

165

7

VALTTERI BOTTAS

FIN

WILLIAMS

81

8

SERGIO PEREZ

MEX

FORCE INDIA

80

9

NICO HULKENBERG

GER

FORCE INDIA

54

10

FELIPE MASSA

BRA

WILLIAMS

43

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

SPORT 39

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Four things we learnt in the Premier League I n week eight of the Premier League, Arsenal showed some unexpected steel after holding on to win against Swansea, while Manchester City proved lack of practice certainly doesn’t make perfect as

FOOTBALL

Arsenal ready to lose ‘soft’ tag One sure-fire way to annoy Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is to suggest his team can be ‘bullied’ off the ball, as he thinks this then becomes an excuse for his team to be on the receiving end of foul play.

Wenger denies his team lacks a backbone but a lack of defensive resilience has more than played its part in the London club’s failure to win the Premier League title for more than a decade. Yet against Swansea the French manager’s stubborn insistence did not ring quite so hollow as Arsenal clung on to a 3-2 win at the Emirates

Nobody should ever tell Arsene his team can be bullied. Photo: AFP despite being a man down for the final 20 minutes after Granit Xhaka was sent off.

One swallow does not a summer make but Wenger will hope this is the dawn of a new, tougher Gunners outfit capable of standing firm all the way to May.

they’re held to a draw at home to Everton in a game that saw the league leaders miss two penalties.

Here are four things we learned from the Premier League last weekend.

Referee rows can precede kick-off Premier League referees have long known their decisions will be subjected to intense scrutiny. But now they can face questioning even before kick-off with Anthony Taylor in the firing line ahead of Monday’s match between Liverpool and Manchester United. There have been suggestions that the fact the official, a fan of non-league Altrincham, lives not too far away from United’s Old Trafford ground means he could have been biased at Monday’s match at Anfield. Remarkably, that point of view has been put forward by former top flight English referee Keith

Rugby Union 13:30

15:30

Mitre 10 Cup - SF1

Anthony Taylor refereeing Liverpool-Man United ‘grossly unfair’ said Hackett. Photo: AFP Hackett, who said he feared the focus on Taylor would be “intolerable”. It might be more tolerable if the likes of Hackett at least waited until Taylor had blown his whistle.

TEAMS / INFO Otago v. Bay of Plenty

Cricket

11:00

19:00 Test Match -Chittagong

Bangladesh v. England, Day 2

Cricket

12:50

21:00

Test Match 2 - Dubai

Pakistan v. West Indies, Day 1

EPL PREDICTIONS MONTHLY STANDINGS (SEPT) 1.

2.

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5.

adamrosindale victory Allard ORYS BAR aquamarine

Team

*Times may be subject to change EVENT

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 October 2016 will receive a THB3,000 voucher to spend at Walkabout Sports Bar Karon.

OVERALL STANDINGS

7 7 6 6 6

1.

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Sidwell Guduka chook adamrosindale carst scottkip

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English Premier League 2016 - 2017

Live Sports TV Schedule SPORT START STOP Friday October 21

MONTHLY SPONSOR

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Saturday October 22 Rugby Union 08:30

10:30

Mitre 10 Cup – SF2

Wellington v. North Harbour

Rugby Union 13:30

15:30

Bledisloe Cup

New Zealand v. Australia

Rugby Union 20:55 Soccer Soccer

23:00

Currie Cup – FINAL

Blue Bulls v. Cheetahs

18:30

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Bournemouth v. Tottenham

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Arsenal v. Middlesbrough

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Liverpool v. West Bromwich

Cricket

12:50

21:00

Test Match 2 - Dubai

Pakistan v. West Indies, Day 2

Cricket

11:00

19:00 Test Match -Chittagong

Bangladesh v. England, Day 2 Montpellier v. Leinster

Sunday October 23 Rugby Union

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20:00 Europe Champions Cup

20:10

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Zebre v. Connacht

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00:25 Europe Champions Cup

Leicester v. Racing 92

Rugby Union 08:00

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Taranaki v. Tasman

Motor Racing 14:30

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Qualifying, Austin, USA (Rpt)

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Man City v. Southampton

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Chelsea v. Man United

Test Match 2 - Dubai

Pakistan v. West Indies, Day 3

Soccer Cricket

12:50

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Cricket

11:00

19:00 Test Match -Chittagong

Canterbury v. Counties Manukau

Bangladesh v. England, Day 4

Monday October 24 Motor Racing 17:00

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USA Grand Prix - (Repeat)

Cricket

11:00

19:00 Test Match -Chittagong

Bangladesh v. England, Day 5

Cricket

12:50

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Pakistan v. West Indies, Day 4

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Test Match 2 - Dubai

Pep believes there’s no need to practise penalties. Photo: AFP

Man City pay the penalty The old adage is “practice makes perfect” and Manchester City suggested the opposite – that lack of practice makes imperfect – is likely true too. Long-suffering England fans, who’ve seen the team exit several major tournaments on the back of penalty shoot-out defeats, have often been annoyed by several national managers saying there is no point practising penalties.

They may, however, take some comfort that City boss Pep Guardiola, one

of the outstanding managers of his generation, believes the same thing too. But his approach was called in to question as both Kevin de Bruyne and Sergio Aguero had penalties saved by goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg in a 1-1 draw against Everton.

Guardiola remained steadfast, though, saying penalty training would remain off his agenda. “You can practise in training sessions, but nobody is there, no pressure,” he said.

Chelsea’s Kante is Leicester’s loss N’Golo Kante showed Leicester what they are missing and repaid Antonio Conte’s faith with a dominant display in Chelsea’s 3-0 win against the champions last Saturday.

Kante was the heart and soul of Leicester’s astonishing Premier League title-winning campaign last season, but the French midfielder made a close-season move to Stamford Bridge and his old club haven’t been the same since.

Without Kante, Leicester lack drive in midfield and have now won only two of their first eight league games. Meanwhile, after being criticised for a mistake in Chelsea’s defeat

Leicester fans must be wishing Kante still wore their shirt. Photo: AFP at Arsenal last month, Kante is starting to show why Conte paid £30 million to sign him.

Controlling midfield with an understated authority, he was voted man of the match.

AFP

Sport

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

editor3@classactmedia.co.th

THE ‘KING OF SPORTS’

His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand enjoying some racing.

His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej loved and supported sports Bangkok Post

H

is Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who passed away last Thursday (Oct 13), loved sports and was Thailand’s top sailor in the 1960s.

His Majesty the late King was also the patron of several sporting events and associations.

When he was young, he took part in a number of sports including sailing, badminton and tennis.

He was the first Thai monarch to compete in an international sporting event when he took part in sailing at the Southeast Asian Peninsular (SEAP) Games (now the SEA Games) in 1967.

His Majesty the late King and his daughter Princess Ubolratana were joint winners in the OK dinghy class of the sailing tournament which was held off Pattaya.

The achievement was all the more remarkable because he built his own boat.

He claimed the title on Dec 16

which has since been Thailand’s National Sports Day. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) awarded him the Insignia of the Olympic Order in 1987 and presented him with the Lalounis Cup in 2001 for his leading role in supporting and promoting sports.

In 2012, he received the President’s Medal from the Badminton World Federation for his contribution to the sport.

“All sports must be played according to the rules,” His Majesty the late King once said.

On another occasion, he said: “Spor ts are impor tant in the development of the country and people.”

His Majesty the late King sponsored several athletes including Charoen Wattanasin, one of Thailand’s greatest ever badminton players who reached the All-England final twice.

In the 1960s, Charoen, who often played badminton with the

late King, went to Liverpool University on a business management scholarship given by His Majesty the late King.

In 2003, snooker player Noppadol Saengnil won a national ranking event in impressive style.

Noppadol earned the right to participate in the 2003-2004 Challenge Tour in Britain through a keenly contested Asian qualifying school, but his dream of playing professionally was being hampered by a lack of funds.

His Majesty the late King, who had seen Noppadol play on TV, awarded the young player a grant from his personal funds to ensure that the rising snooker star would be able to participate in the Challenge Tour that season.

The late King always encouraged athletes to put the sporting spirit first, and strive for victory and friendship.

Because of His Majesty the late King’s involvement in sports, several sporting events are named

the King’s Cup in honour of the monarch, including sailing, golf, boxing and football.

The late King inspired and encouraged a large number of Thai athletes to victory.

It became a tradition that Thai athletes would lift a portrait of His Majesty the late King after their success including Olympic boxing champions Somluck Kamsing (1996), Manus Boonjumnong (2004) and Somjit Jongjohor (2008).

After his Olympic success in Bejing, Somjit revealed that he carried an amulet of the late King in monkhood.

“The King is already holy – he is holier in the monkhood,” said Somjit.

The late King’s love for sports knew no bounds and it was his passionate involvement from the hospital bed that inspired the Thai national football team to Southeast Asian glory in 2014.

Thailand came from 3-0 behind to lose 3-2 in the second leg of

the AFF Suzuki Cup final against Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur.

However, the result was enough for coach Kiatisak Senamuang’s men to end a 12-year title drought in the biennial championship after a 2-0 home win in the first leg.

Prof Udom Kachintorn, dean of Siriraj Hospital’s Faculty of Medicine, said the late King, who was staying at the hospital at that time, watched both legs of the final on TV. “In the first leg, he woke up to watch the second half. His Majesty slept in the afternoon and woke up at 7pm [kick-off time] to watch the second leg,” the doctor said.

“When Thailand trailed 2-0 at half-time, he asked his principal private secretary to phone Kasem Jariyawatwong, the team manager, to tell him that the King was watching the match and wanted to give them moral support.”

After Thailand won the title, he smiled and said “brilliant”, according to Prof Udom.

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