The Phuket News 26 Jan 2018

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

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Since 2011 / Volume VIII / No. 4

TOURISM LICENCES TARGETED IN SAFETY DRIVE > PAGE 2

‘BETTER IF YOU DO’ FOREIGNERS URGED TO RE-REGISTER ADDRESSES, EVEN IF STAYING OFF-ISLAND JUST ONE NIGHT

20 Baht

NEWS

PAGE 3

Russians bereft of Bitcoins in hostage heist

LIFE

PAGE 13

Move over brunch, it’s ‘Linner’ time!

Chief of the Phuket Immigration Office, Col Kathathorn Kumthieng, urges foreigners to re-register their addresses, just in case. Photo: Shela Riva

Shela Riva reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

T

he Chief of the Phuket Immigration Office, Col Kathathorn Kumthieng, has confirmed that all foreigners registered as living in Phuket must re-report their address to immigration after being registered as staying in a hotel within Thailand, even for just one night.

The confirmation follows complaints from long-term expats that they were fined B2,000 for not reregistering their home addresses

after travelling within the country.

“By law, it is a requirement to register your address within 24 hours after being registered elsewhere, such as at a hotel or a guesthouse,” Col Kathathorn told The Phuket News this week.

“This is because the hotel or guest house will have to register you, also by law, as residing somewhere other than your residence. So when you return to your residence, you must inform immigration,” he explained.

T he sa me also appl ies for foreigners living in Phuket who

leave the country and return, say for a weekend trip to Singapore.

Col Kathathorn played down concerns for honest, law-abiding expats.

“Although it is the law, if it’s a short stay, for example a day or two, and nothing happens to prompt officials to check then there usually won’t be a problem,” he said, for stays away from home within the country.

“However, if you become involved in an incident and become a suspect in a case for example, not re-registering your address will be a big problem.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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So it’s better if you do.”

Regardless, although the overall effect for most foreigners caught not re-registering their address each time on returning home to Phuket might be deemed negligible, foreigners will be liable to a B2,000 fine for each infringement and the incident will remain on their immigration record.

Col Kathathorn explained that the requirement for foreigners to re-register their address in Thailand, even if they have lived at the same address for many years, derives from an archaic immigration law...

SPORT

PAGE 32

Phuket-based and racing for Switzerland

News 2

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Man, 21, charged for road rage machete A 21-Y EA R- OLD M A N has received three charges from Phuket City Police after footage was released online of him wielding a long machete and violently threatening the driver of another vehicle who happened to be filming him at the time of the incident.

“Lt Col Naruebodin Pangleesen of the Phuket City Police tracked down an Isuzu pickup truck from its number plate provided by the victim.

Police called the owner of the pickup truck to come to Phuket City Police Station,” Phuket City Police Deputy Chief Lt Col Nat Promthep told reporters.

“At 6:30pm the suspect, Noppadol Sainoi, 21, from Nakhon Sri Thammarat arrived at Phuket City Police Station. Police seized from him a 77 centimetre machete.

“The incident happened on Thepkrasattri Rd (southbound), in front of the Isuzu showroom in Koh Kaew on Wednesday (Jan 17) at 9am,” Col Nat added.

“After the victim, Suriya Yabantum, who was driving behind the pickup truck negotiated with Noppadol, Mr Suriya did not take action against Noppadol.

“Noppadol’s urine test for drugs showed negative,” Col

Wildlife officals ramp up action against slow loris touts > page 4

Officers target tourism licences for boat safety Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

Noppadol Sainoi, 21, seen wielding the weapon in the road rage incident. Photo: Screengrab Nat noted.

Noppadol was charged on three accounts: not having a driver’s licence, reckless driving which may be dangerous to others in accordance with the Land Transport Act, and carrying a knife in a public place.

“The legal process will continue,” said Col Nat. The video clip posted online, recorded from the dash cam of Mr Suriya’s car, shows a scene where Noppadol’s pickup truck suddenly swerves in front of Mr Suriya’s car and brakes suddenly.

Then Noppadol, wearing a white T-shirt and trousers, emerges from the truck with a long machete in his hand and approaches Mr Suriya’s car.

Mr Suriya is heard saying that he is calling the police.

Eakkapop Thongtub

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

T

ourist Police in Phuket say they will ask for repeat offenders found breaking marine transport and tourism laws to have their tourism business licences revoked.

The news follows 12 people being charged for violating marine transport laws during random tour boat inspections at Chalong Pier last Saturday (Jan 20).

“Two people were operating speedboats with expired licences, another one didn’t have his boat operator’s licence on board with him at the time of the inspection, and another six operators were not running boats in accordance with the conditions specified in their licence,” Capt Ekkachai Siri of the Tourist Police confirmed on Tuesday (Jan 22).

All six caught using their boats illegally were found operating their boats with insufficient crew, Capt Ekkachai explained.

“By law each speedboat being used to transport tourists must have at least two crew and a captain on board when

Tourist Police Deputy Commander Maj Gen Surachet Hakphanon and other officials inspect a speedboat involved in the collision off Phuket on Jan 16. Photo: Phuket PR Dept transporting tourists,” he said, adding that the boats were found with just one crewman assisting the captain.

“All nine charged were fined B2,000 each, then released,” Capt Ekkachai noted.

Some of the speedboats were allowed to continue providing tours to tourists after paying the B2,000 fine, but others were forced to bring in other crew and captains to operate the boats before they were allowed to depart, he added.

Capt Ekkachai declined to name the nine caught breaking the law.

However, he added, “They

were warned by marine officials. If they break the law again, I will make their names public.”

Phuket Marine Police and Marine Office officials will continue to inspect boats at Chalong Pier twice a week, Capt Ekkachai cautioned.

Repeat offenders also risk losing their financial lifeline, he added.

“I will ask that tour operators who continue to break marine safety laws have their tourism business licences revoked by the Tourism Business and Guide Registration Office in Phuket,” Capt Ekkachai warned.

The news follows national To u r i s t Pol i c e D e p u t y Commander Maj Gen Surachet Hakphan slamming local operators for their attitude towards safety in the wake of the two speedboat accidents last week, that left dozens of Chinese tourist scorched by a fireball in one incident at Phi Phi Island and dozens of Italian tourists injured in a speedboat collision off Phuket’s east coast.

“Officials must respond to all incidents concerning people and marine transport,” Gen Surachet said during an inspection tour of marine operators in Phuket on Jan 18.

“Every related agency must focus on this. Income should not be businesses’ first priority, it should be their second priority. It is down to local officials to figure out marine transport safety.”

Meanwhile, the Governor of Phuket has urged local government officials to brainstorm what they see as the island’s problems, so the issues can be reported to members of the National Legislative Assembly (NLA), during their visit to the island planned for February 3-4.

Immigration address registration debunked Continued from page 1 ...specifically Section 37 (2) of the Thailand Immigration Act of 1979.

Likewise, under Section 38 of the same act, the “master, the owner or the possessor of the residence, or the hotel manager where the alien, receiving permission to stay temporary in the Kingdom has stayed, must notify the competent official of the Immigration Office located in the same area with that hours, dwelling place or hotel, within 24 hours from the time of arrival of the alien concerned. If there is no Immigration Office located in that area, the local police official for that area must be notified.”

“It must be done because it’s the law. It’s the law in many countries,” Col Kathathorn said.

Col Kathathorn explained that in order to re-report an address, the foreigner must come to Phuket immigration offices, in Phuket Town or in Patong, in person and provide their passport, a filled-in TM30 form and a letter of authorisation – or literally a power of attorney empowering the foreigner to register details on the landlord’s behalf – if the landlord is not present.

“If it’s the same address as they were previously staying, the foreigner does not need to bring the rental contract proving their rental of the residence. We will have that information in the system,” Col Kathathorn noted.

“If you have this letter (of authorisation from the landlord), the landlord does not need to come to immigration,” he added. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

PHUKET NEWS

Russians in Bitcoin heist

3

Police track suspects by stolen phone to Malaysia Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

N

ational Tourist Police Deputy Commander Lt Gen Su rachet Hakpan last week confirmed that a team from the Phuket Provincial Police are hunting the suspects wanted for allegedly holding hostage and threatening a young couple at their condo in Nai Harn in a heist that saw a reported B3.5 million in Bitcoins stolen.

“Phuket Provincial Police are now in charge of hunting for these suspects. We have also ordered Tourist Police Division 3 Chief Maj Gen Angkoon Klaiklueng to follow up on this case,” Gen Surachet said during a visit to the island last Thursday (Jan 18).

“At this stage we know that the suspects are foreigners but we can not reveal more details,” he said.

“Transnational crime is usually the responsibility of the Tourist Police Bureau.

However, as this has taken place in Phuket we are leaving the Provincial Police in charge.

“The Tourist Police Bureau

Maxim Lastovka (centre), 27, and Anna Nikulina, 22, at Chalong Police Station.

has taken serious action against Transnational Crime especially in tourism areas such as Pattaya, Phuket and Krabi. Tourists now have more confidence in our work and this can be seen by the increasing number of tourists visiting Thailand,” Gen Surachet added.

The couple, who are staying in Phuket on education visas to learn Thai but own the condo, reported the robbery to Lt Chanat Hongsittichaikul of the Chalong Police on Jan 17.

“It is alleged that suspects broke into the unit at The Lago Naihar n Beach on Monday (Jan 15) and that

they stole items including a MacBook, MacBook Pro, HP notebook, iPhone X, at least one Visa credit card issued in Russia, two passports and the equivalent of about US$100,000 in Bitcoins,”Lt Chanat said.

“We were told that Mr Lastovka and his girlfriend were walking back to their condo when a group of suspects gathered near an electric control panel inside the building, approached them and forced Mr Lastovka to open his room.

“The suspects then used a black bag to cover Mr Lastovka’s head and separated him from his girlfriend. The

Drug dealers arrested after reported by beach club staff POLICE ARRESTED A Russian man and Ukrainian woman at a popular beach club i n K a mala last Thursday (Jan 18) when they were found in possession of various drugs after staff at the beach club became suspicious of the man’s activities.

A team of officers led

by Kamala Police Chief Lt Col Pramuan Jaikratok t oge t h e r w it h Phu ke t Tourist Police Lt Teerapong Torarit arrested Russian national Viktor Dvinskii, 27, and Ukrainian woman Vladyslava Berezina, 22, at the popular beach club at 2am.

Police seized from the pair two ecstasy pills, 10 bags of cocaine with a total weight of 14.44 grams, 16.66g of marijuana and an iPhone X. The arrests came after police received a tip-off from beach club staff that a foreigner was selling drugs to customers.

Plain-clothed officers went to the venue to carry @thephuketnews

Russian man Viktor Dvinskii, 27, and Ukranian woman Berezina Vladyslava, 22, were found to be in possession of cocaine, ecstasy and marijuana. Photo: Phuket Tourist Police out a stakeout and soon noticed that the man who staff had reported, Dvinskii, frequently went to the toilet.

Pol i c e a p p r o a c h e d Dvinskii and carried out a search to discover him in possession of cocaine.

Officers then checked Dvinskii’s mobile phone and found a picture of his girlfriend, Vladyslava, showing her sitting at a table with marijuana on it.

Dvinskii admitted that he had more drugs stored

at his rental house so police went and car ried out a search and found drugs hidden in a sofa and suitcase and also lying on the table.

Pol ice a lso fou nd US$2,400 (B61,248) hidden in various places in the house.

Dvinskii and Berezina were taken to Kamala Police Station and charged with possession of Category 1, 2 and 5 drugs with an intent to sell.

Eakkapop Thongtub

suspects forced the couple to tell them where they kept their valuables,” Lt Chanat explained.

“The suspects then forced the couple to transfer the Bitcoins to another account via a computer. They told the couple that if the Bitcoins were not transferred Mr Lastovka would be killed.

“The suspects then proceeded to take the couple’s valuables while threatening them not to report the robbery to police.

“They were told if they did report the incident to police they would inject drugs into the couple,” Lt Chanat added.

“The suspects detained the couple for more than six hours before speeding away.

“Mr Lastovka was afraid to tell police. However, they then met with Phuket Tourist Police volunteer Igor Protasov and told him their story. He then brought them to Chalong Police Station.

“Mr Lastovka was able to recognise one of suspects as he had seen him before,” Lt Chanat noted.

Pol ice i n spected t he

condo block and the couple’s apartment, and checked the condo estate’s security CCTV footage.

“We’re still in the process of trying to find a clear CCTV footage of the suspects,” Lt Chanat said.

“We have some footage that is potentially of the suspects, but it is from the outside of the building. They appear very briefly, flashing in and out of view, so it is uncertain at this point,” he added.

“We tracked a mobile phone that the suspects had taken from the condo and found that the suspects had escaped Phuket and gone to Malaysia via Nakhon Sri Thammarat,” Lt Chanat explained.

“The suspects might be Russians as they have followed Mr Lastovka and his girlfriend.

They also knew about Bitcoins the couple had.

“They might have known the couple well.

“We are investigating the incident and have contacted Immigration Police to track down the suspects in order to bring them to face legal action,” Lt Chanat concluded.

The baggage handlers are presented along with items stolen. Photo: Sakoo Police

Airport staff come undone over thefts T H R EE BAG GAGE handlers at Phuket International Airport were arrested last Sunday (Jan 21) for the theft of items from passengers’ luggage.

Nirut Saksri, 29; Manot Nakpijit, 30; and Chakrit Janprasert, 23; all from Phichit, were arrested after an ivestigation launched in December after complaints from tourists, explained Sakoo Police Chief Col Jirasak Sieamsak.

In a search of a house in Sakoo in relation to the arrests police seized more than 100 items including laptop computers, mobile phones, whisky, watches, sunglasses, jewellery and other items, he added.

All three admitted to the charges against them, Col Jirasak noted.

Eakkapop Thongtub

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PHUKET NEWS

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

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Ukrainian Artem Serdiukov, was to be tested for drugs and alcohol.

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Two killed in head-on U K R A I N I A N A RT E M Serdiukov was ordered to be tested for drugs and alcohol after the car he was driving crossed onto the wrong side of the road at speed and slammed head-on into a passenger van in Cherng Talay last Sunday afternoon (Jan 21), killing two Russian women passengers in his car.

The women, named by police as Russians LiuiZia Samigullina, 67, and Liliia Malikova, 68, were pronounced dead on arrival at Thalang Hospital, confirmed police.

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Wildlife officials arrest another slow loris tout Shela Riva reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

T

he Chief of the Phuket K hao Ph ra Thaew Non-Hunting Area Conser vat ion Cent re i n Thalang, Piyawat Sukon, has confirmed that a slow loris tout was arrested by officials at Karon Beach last Wednesday (Jan 17) after tourists reported the man.

“We found the man because a tourist reported him to us via the telephone number we gave you [The Phuket News]. He was found walking around near Karon Circle,” Mr Piyawat said.

“He was charged with possession of a protected wildlife animal without permission.

The unnamed man was arrested by officials at Karon Beach on Jan 17. Photo: Supplied (face obscured by officials) “The court will decide the fine amount or punishment for this suspect,” he added.

The suspect, who Mr Piyawat declined to name, is the second suspect to be

arrested by wildlife officials for touting a slow loris this month, after a woman was arrested similarly through a tip-off from a tourist on Jan 10.

Beach inspections to catch

touts in December yielded no suspects, as Mr Piyawat believed the touts recognised the officials’ vehicles and hid.

“The touts had either run away or were hiding. We could not find any suspects,” said Mr Piyawat on Dec 14.

However, Mr Piyawat noted that the officials had success during the next two occasions where tourists reported sightings directly to him.

“Thank you for helping the public to communicate with us,” he said.

Mr Piyawat welcomed further reports directly to him on 089 873 7749.

“I speak basic English, if you are a foreigner, please speak simply and say what animal you saw, where, and when, or other important details.”

Masturbator arrested, fined

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KOMSANT KHIAWOON, 19, wanted by police for trespassing on the property of a female expat on two separate occasions in December and allegedly masturbating at her property and offering her B2,000 to have sex with him,

was taken to Cherng Talay Police Station last Wednesday (Jan 17) and charged with two counts of “performing a disgraceful act in public”.

He was fined B500 for each incident, police confirmed.

Shela Riva

Mantarin (Zara) Klinjun 088 765 5883

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Opinion 6

OPINION

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

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

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

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editor1@classactmedia.co.th From Melbourne, Australia, Mark holds a BA from La Trobe University where he completed a double major in Anthropology and Media Studies.

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EDITORIAL

Pushing buttons

T

he archaic law requiring long-term expats to reregister their address, in person no less, at Phuket Immigration every time they decide to fly to Bangkok and stay for even one night on business or go for a short holiday anywhere in the country – ironically as the Thai government ramps up its domestic tourism push – needs to be brought into the 21st century.

The law was drafted in 1979, pretty much as the last of the US Army GIs were still shipping out and long before the first real tourists graced these shores in numbers – the precursor to the mass tourism Thailand enjoys today.

Many expats living on the island have long been key drivers in tourism and other industries that has made Phuket – as Bangkok is so proud to point out time and again – the highest-revenue generating

province in the country outside the Bangkok metropolitan area.

Punishing such foreigners who have brought so much benefit for Thais living in Phuket, and helped to create so many jobs that sustain so many families on the island, is absurd.

We understand that Phuket Immigration is bound by rules it does not create, and that every time there is a security scare immigration superiors in Bangkok bleat to crack down on security measures, thus dusting off old laws for nothing better than a public show of effort.

Trust us, if the honest, lawabiding expats who do take the time to re-register their address know this procedure is a waste of time… the bad guys certainly know it. The procedure achieves nothing.

Bangkok should at the very least make good on the Prime

Minister’s promise of using technology to improve work efficiency of its officials – yes, that “Thailand 4.0” promise – while at the same time making it more convenient for foreigners to fulfil this requirement.

In short, if a mobile phone today can scan a fingerprint – or even a face – and match it to a data account, then why not install a simple device at the immigration office so foreigners can get this procedure over and done with in seconds, forgoing the long queues at the Immigration office.

The fearful in Bangkok could require such a machine to be installed only at Immigration offices, which would help to placate their concerns with a photo of the foreigner being taken every time this is done.

Sometimes the small things, simple things, mean so much and make much more sense.

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Finnish air hostess, 27, found dead in hotel ‘Untouchable’ wildlife kingpin arrested Russian, Ukrainian drug dealers arrested after being reported by Phuket beach club staff When the road hazard in Phuket is a building Parrotfish catching in Phuket lands six French nationals in hot water Ukrainian man tested for drugs, alcohol after Russian women killed in Phuket car crash Patong bar owner faces charges for striking security guard Phuket masturbator arrested, fined B1,000 Thai man, 21, charged after pulling machete in road rage incident Eight injured as Phuket speedboats collide

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HAVE YOUR SAY Get certification

Re: Phuket amid tripartite push to improve tour boat safety Professional Divemasters and Instructors, as well certified divers, should have an official Thai ID badge to identify all those diving and snorkelling with dive and tour boats, as it is done in Bunaken (Indonesia) and in many Marine National Parks around the world.

Asterix ...................................................

Lock him up

Re: Thai man, 21, charged after pulling machete in Phuket road rage incident Is this mental not normal person still walking freely around? If tested negative on drugs then he is mentally disordered and should not be walking freely around. He is a danger to others.

He does not even have a driving licence! Risk to kill other road users when he is driving. Lock him up, protect society against such people.

Some day he will get shot by another Thai who has a gun in their car.

Kurt

Mandatory testing Re: Ukrainian man tested for drugs, alcohol after Russian women killed in Phuket head-on collision

Tested for drugs, alcohol?

This shouldn’t be a story. Any driver involved in any traffic collision should automatically be tested.

In cases where someone has died and the blood tests reveal the driver was drunk/stoned they should automatically be charged with manslaughter.

Maybe Thai roads would be safer if people actually feared going to jail for DUI. Captain Jack 69 ...................................................

Rubber stamp

Re: Phuket light-rail EIA to be submitted next week After witnessing the Bang Tao wetlands filling in over the last decade, I wonder if any project permit has been denied for an unfavourable EIA? Surely there has never been an EIA that stated it was good for the environment to concrete everything over?

What are these EIA good for?

Handing out public funds to private persons is what.

Christy Sweet

When will the “powers that be” admit that this whole project is total nonsense? A light rail that only goes to so few places is never going to be used.

A proper integrated public transport network of buses linking all the main locations would actually work.

Apart from “willy waggling”, why on earth would anyone think this project is useful? Another Patong City sign or broken dolphin roundabout.

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

Get rid of eyesores

Re: When the road hazard in Phuket is a building The building in question has been there in its current state at least since 2004. Now we’re talking about abandoned buildings why can’t something be done to the unfinished project in the swing close to Simon Cabaret. Nice sight for tourists entering from the Karon side.

A real eyesore.

LaLaLand ...................................................

Dancing with death Re: Tourists injured as pier shuttle bus crashes

I am amazed that it seems so many daily accidents, drownings, boat collisions, etc. involve Chinese tourists.

Surely the Chinese Embassy should inform them that this is the most dangerous place in the world for Chinese to visit.

Marcher ...................................................

A good start

Re: ‘Untouchable’ wildlife kingpin arrested in Bangkok My hat’s off to all law enforcement personnel involved in arresting these heartless human pieces of s*#t.

Now comes the scary part, when high ranking Thai officials are left to negotiate sentencing of these wealthy criminals. I just hope we don’t read about another “escape”.

But I wouldn’t be all that surprised if these guys “escaped”.

Ben Pendejo ...................................................

Deport them

Re: Parrotfish catching in Phuket lands six French nationals in hot water Fine them the maximum and deport them. Do they come on vacation to destroy the environment?

Yvonne

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

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

THAILAND NEWS

Two Israelis held for ‘mob hit’ on Koh Samui SURAT THANI

Bangkok Post

T

wo Israeli nationals were detained at Don Mueang airport last Sunday night and held for questioning about the murder of a compatriot on Koh Samui, in Surat Thani – an attack local media described as a “mob hit”.

Maor Mallil, 34, was slain last Sunday afternoon (Jan 21) on a street outside Samui International Hospital which runs parallel to Chaweng Beach.

Police suspect the attack was a mob hit, according to Thai media reports.

T he suspects were detained at about 9:30pm by immigration authorities upon their arrival at Don Mueang airport, reports said. The men had travelled from Surat Thani with Thai Lion Air. Dolev Zuarez, 24, and Eyal Bokal, 26, were held for questioning on suspicion of being involved in the murder of Mr Mallil last Sunday afternoon on Koh Samui. They

@thephuketnews

A photo taken from surveillance camera footage of the murder of Israeli Maor Mallil after a Honda CRV crashed into his motorcycle at Chaweng Beach on Koh Samui.

Inset: From left, suspects Eyal Bokal and Dolev Zuarez.

Photos: Supapong Chaolan and Apichit Jinakul were expected to be handed over to police in Surat Thani on Monday (Jan 22).

T h e a l lege d k i l le r s’ Honda CRV slammed into the motorcycle Mr Mallil and his girlfriend were riding, knocking them to the ground.

It then reversed back into the motorcycle, hitting it again, and a man got out and stabbed

Mr Mallil several times.

He was later pronounced dead at Bangkok-Samui Hospital. His girlfriend was also admitted to hospital for treatment for her injuries.

Tw o m o t o r c y c l i s t s , believed to be friends of the victims, tried to help, but were also hit by the Honda car.

The attack was captured

by security cameras and triggered a massive manhunt.

The suspects reportedly fled into the woods behind the International School of Tourism. Sketches of the attackers were released and a search was ordered at every pier.

Police found the Honda car abandoned about three kilometres away from the scene.

Blood stains and crash damage were found on the front and the rear of the vehicle, which was being examined by forensic investigators for more evidence.

A source close to the investigation said the suspects left Koh Samui on a speedboat to Surat Thani where they boarded a flight to Don Mueang airport.

Maj Gen Apichar t Boonsriroj, commander of Surat Thani police, said an initial investigation suggested the victim and his killers had a conflict back in Israel.

He said police had yet to determine if the attackers were linked to any criminal organisation.

7

Grilled seahorses taken off the menu PATTAYA A FOOD VENDOR has been ordered to immediately drop grilled seahorses from his menu at a floating market popular with tourists, and his shop is being shut down.

Manas Meepong, manager of the Pattaya Floating Market, said he is terminating the contract with the vendor and made sure the seahorses were no longer on sale.

The decision followed pictures of grilled seahorses being posted on social media by tourists. The exotic snack on a stick cost B150 for one.

Mr Manas said he was shocked to learn these animals were being cooked and sold at his market.

Chinese tourists were the main buyers, according to the vendor, whose name has not been disclosed.

S e a ho r s e s a r e n ot protected by Thai law.

Importing or exporting them is, however, banned by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species

Grilled seahorses on sale for B150 each at the Pattaya Floating Market, before they were banned. Photo: Chaiyot Pupattanapong of Wild Fauna and Flora (Cites) to which Thailand is a signatory. This leaves a loophole for vendors of exotic foods.

Thon Thamrongnawasawat, a marine ecologist and lecturer at Kasetsart University, wrote on his Facebook account urging the government to list seahorses as an endangered species in Thailand to ensure its protection and continued survival.

The f loating market features products from all regions in the country and is popular with tourists from China visiting the resort city.

Bangkok Post

THAILAND NEWS

8

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

‘It’s a personal matter’ PM insists he is not required to deal with Prawit’s case BANGKOK Bangkok Post

P

rime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has fully defended his deputy Gen Prawit Wongsuwon who is under heavy public pressure concerning his collection of luxury wristwatches.

He insisted the case was “a personal matter” and the he was not required to step in at this time.

“You may forget that this is a personal matter... a personal f law,” he said on Tuesday (Jan 23).

“There is already a law to deal with this. It should be left to the anti-graft agency to handle,” Gen Prayut added.

He was responding to criticism from the public that the premier has taken no action in relation to the snowballing scandal.

T he Nat ional A nt iCor r uption Com mission (NACC) will announce any progress of its probe and the public must be patient, he said.

“It would be a different matter if it involved any misspending of the state budget. Don’t mix the two issues up. Just let the NACC investigate according to legal procedures,” Gen Prayut said.

He insisted he was not defending Gen Prawit or trying to conceal anything.

Gen Prawit previously said he was ready to resign if the national graft-busting agency decides there are sufficient grounds to pursue a case against him.

Gen Prayut said he was not employing “double standards” by failing to exercise his special power granted under Section 44 to suspend Gen Prawit from duty despite doing so for other officials whose reputations have been tarnished.

“I used Section 44 to punish others because the agencies that probed them recommended they be suspended. That doesn’t mean I can just use it with anyone.

In this case, we need to see if that’s the NACC’s judgement.”

The NACC launched its probe following public criticism after suspicions emerged that Gen Prawit had failed to report over 20 expensive watches among his declared assets and liabilities as required by the anti-graft agency.

T he popular CSI LA Facebook page has spotted at least 25 luxury watches worth about B39.5 million on the deputy premier’s wrists.

Gen Prayut dismissed spec-

Activists and satirists with multiple watches and evidence the scandal has gone worldwide were out in force at the cabinet meeting at Government House yesterday (Jan 23).

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha stood firmly behind his friend and Deputy PM Gen Prawit Wongsuwan.

Activist Ekachai Hongkangwan holds a poster showing foreign media reports about the luxury wristwatches worn

by Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon as he arrives at Government House to present Gen Prawit with more watches as mock gifts. Photo: Wichan Charoenkiatpakul ulation that Gen Prawit will resign. A source at the NACC said its secretary-general, Worawit Sukboon, was to hold a briefing on Wednesday (Jan 24) to update the media on the probe.

Mana Nimit mongkol, secretary-general of the Anti-Corruption Organisation of Thailand, said the matter cannot be regarded as personal given that both the prime minister and deputy prime minister are public office-holders who exercise state power.

The public wants and has a right to know if they are honest, Mr Mana said.

They are not interested in his personal taste but whether he earns enough money to afford all these luxury watches, he said.

Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva insisted that Gen Prawit should come forward and explain himself.

“We’ve heard titbits from

various sources but we won’t know what the facts are until Gen Prawit decides to confirm them,” he said.

“In my opinion he should make this clear to the public.”

Mr Abhisit said earlier that the issue has undermined the public’s confidence in Gen Prawit and the regime, making the government’s work harder and its popularity suffer.

Meanwhile, former finance minister MR Pridiyathorn Devakula told the Bangkok Post that his earlier comments that Gen Prawit must resign were taken out of context.

He said he was only responding to a question from one media outlet about what he would do if he were in Gen Prawit’s shoes, and answered that he thought he would resign. He emphasised that he never said Gen Prawit must quit.

Moreover, when asked whether he had known about

the lending and borrowing of luxury watches among Gen Prawit’s social circle, he said he had no knowledge of this as it would have been done among close friends.

Gen Prawit claims all of the expensive watches he was photographed wearing belonged to his friends and have since been returned.

Tida Thavornset, leader of the red-shirt United Front for D e mo c r a cy aga i n st D ic t at or sh ip, s a id G e n Prawit should resign or risk undermining the credibility of the government.

Ms Tida said she was not convinced the NACC would be able to conduct a fair and transparent probe because its chairman was a former subordinate of Gen Prawit’s.

Former senator Rosana Tositrakul left a Facebook post on Monday (Jan 22) urging the Customs and Revenue departments to investigate

Gen Prawit.

M s Ro s a n a s a id t he director-general of the Customs Department has the authority to order him to explain whether the watches were properly taxed.

If Gen Prawit still mai nt ai n s he bor rowe d them from friends, he must produce proof to back up his claims, such as receipts and tax invoices, she added. She said the Revenue Department should also look into the issue.

If the watches are confirmed as belonging to Gen Prawit, the department must also investigate whether he paid the correct taxes, she said. “Any action or inaction by the two departments will prove whether the legal mechanisms cited by the prime minister are efficient considering that the person under investigation holds a high position second only to the prime minister,” Ms Rosana said.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

ASIA NEWS

9

The activist murder hotspot

One of the most dangerous countries for environmental killings PHILIPPINES Karl Malakunas

E

nvironmental activists are being killed in record numbers around the world, with the corruptionplagued Philippines one of the most dangerous countries, according to watchdog Global Witness.

At least 200 community activists, NGO workers and other civilians on the frontlines of protecting the environment were reported murdered worldwide in 2016, the highest on record, the group said.

In the Philippines, an environmental activist was recorded to have been killed at a rate of one every 12 days in 2016, with only Brazil and Colombia having more murders.

A s i n ot h e r h ot s p ot nations, the deaths in the Philippines are r ising as communities stand up against corrupt politicians and businessmen intent on securing increasingly scarce natural resources.

@thephuketnews

‘Para-enforcers’ head into the forest near El Nido, on Palawan island, to confront illegal loggers. Photo: Karl Malakunas / AFP “Voracious industries such as mining, agribusiness and logging are trampling over people’s rights to take part in decisions that affect their land and environment,” Billy Kyte, Global Witness environmental and land defenders campaign leader, said.

“Forced into activism, many of these marginalised communities then receive threats and attacks for defending their rights. The

government does little to stop the ensuing violence and rarely holds anyone to account for the killings.”

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial crackdown on drugs, which has seen police and suspected vigilantes kill thousands of people, further highlights the culture of impunity, according to rights groups.

Father-of-five Ruben Arzaga was one recent land defender murdered in the

Philippines when he was shot in the head in September as he tried to approach illegal loggers on Palawan island, a popular tourist destination.

Arzaga was an elected village captain in Palawan’s tourist town of El Nido, famed for its idyllic beaches and limestone cliffs, and had been trying to confiscate illegally cut timber as part of a personal crusade to stop rampant deforestation.

“If this illegal activity

is not stopped, I think before my youngest daughter becomes a young adult and has a family of her own, all the big trees here will be gone,” Arzaga, 49, said during another mission to confiscate chainsaws from illegal loggers.

Police said Arzaga, who was leading a small group of local officials, was ambushed at the logging site last September. Two brothers from Arzaga’s local com-

munity have been charged with murder over his killing.

Arzaga belonged to the Palawan NGO Network Inc (PNNI), a non-profit group made up of so-called paraenforcers that uses a citizen’s arrest law to confiscate equipment that is being used to destroy the island’s environment.

Arzaga was the 12th member of the group murdered since 2001.

“The PNNI’s environmental enforcement work is an example of concerned citizens willing to risk their lives to save Palawan’s precious environment. It’s a selfless, courageous task that should be celebrated,” said Kyte, from Global Witness.

Nieves Rosento, the mayor of El Nido and a friend of Arzaga’s who is struggling with few resources to stop environmental destruction in the area, said the work of PNNI was essential.

“We have a lot of battles here, and they help a lot,” Rosento said a day after attending Arzaga’s funeral.

AFP

10 WORLD NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

The ‘Trainspotting generation’

Alarm bells ring as Scotland sees sharp rise in drug-related deaths UNITED KINGDOM Mark McLaughlin

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cotland has seen a sharp rise in the number of drug deaths as years of abuse by the so-called “Trainspotting generation” f i n a l ly t a ke t he i r t ol l , prompting calls for a rethink on drug policy.

“I’ve seen a lot of death,” said Derek Harper, 57, a former drug addict from the once drugridden Edinburgh neighbourhood of Leith, where the 1996 film Trainspotting was set.

“Half the people at school (are now) dead (from) drugs; half the people I live with in my area (are now) dead with drugs,” he said, estimating he had lost “hundreds” of friends in the last four decades.

The number of drug-related deaths rose to 867 in 2016 and the last comparative data showed Scotland had the highest rate in Europe at 110 deaths per million in 2014 – five times higher than the European average.

“I used drugs for 38 years solid. I took cannabis, heroin, prescription drugs, crack

Derek Harper, a former drug addict poses in Edinburgh, Scotland on January 17, 2018. Photo: Andy Buchanan / AFP cocaine, LSD, mushrooms, all the stuff. I was spiritually bankrupt. I was ill,” said Harper.

“Back in the late 1970s this place was riddled with ‘China White’ heroin, and people were getting found in stairs, pubs, clubs, houses, just overdosing because it was that pure.”

Harper has been clean for years and now shares his experience at Serenity Cafe, a support organisation sandwiched between the Scottish parliament and a clutch of homeless hostels where discarded needles remain a problem.

The blockbuster success of

Trainspotting, based on Irvine Welsh’s novel about coming of age in the 1980s in Leith, made Scotland’s drug underworld famous around the world.

The area is now a noted hipster hangout with trendy pubs and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

But some older residents

still live in deprived residential towers struggling with a lifetime habit.

David Liddell, chief executive of the Scottish Drugs Forum, said how years of abuse are finally catching up on long-term users.

“The ‘Trainspotting generation’ was coined on the back of the book and the film to highlight this group who have been using since the 1980s... when there was the big explosion of heroin use,” he said.

Liddell said Scotland’s drug problems are linked to poverty and deprivation, pointing out that it also had the highest drug problem per head of population at around 61,500 from a population of five million.

“We have people who have been using for 20 or more years, so their bodies have suffered as a consequence of that continued drug use, and are now more vulnerable to overdose and drug-related deaths, sadly.

“So we’re seeing the majority of the deaths now in people aged 35 and over.

“In particular, recently,

there has been an outbreak of HIV infection among these drug injectors,” he said.

Scotland’s politicians have called for the legalisation of medically supervised rooms where users can take their own drugs to inject with clean needles, but they have yet to convince a sceptical British government which is in charge of drugs policy.

“Eight European countries, plus Australia and Canada, have introduced drug consumption rooms,” said Scottish National Party lawmaker Ronnie Cowan as he demanded action to stem Scotland’s rising drug deaths.

“The result has been a reduction in the spread of HIV and hepatitis C, a reduction in crime – there has never been a drug overdose in a supervised drug consumption room.”

But Prime Minister Theresa May has insisted Britain’s focus “should be to ensure that people come off drugs, do not go on drugs in the first place and keep clear of drugs”, rather than pursuing the “liberal” policies of the Scottish nationalists.

AFP

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

BUSINESS NEWS 11

All rise on base wage

Phuket industry chiefs say minimum wage hike impact negligible ECONOMICS Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

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eading figures in key Phuket industries have played down the impact of the impending rise in the minimum wage, which is expected to be approved

by Cabinet imminently and brought into effect in April.

The national wage committee with the authority to approve minimum daily wage hikes agreed last Wednesday night (Jan 17) to an increase in the minimum wage after several rounds of talks between representatives of employers, workers and government officials in the tripartite panel.

The wage will climb from April by between B5 and B22 per day, depending on location, explained Permanent Secretary for Labour Jarin Jakkaphark, who chaired the committee.

The revised daily range of B308 to B330 is about 2% to 7% higher than current levels.

@thephuketnews

Hordes of hopeful candidates wait patiently to be called up for an initial interview at a job fair organised by the Ministry of Labour. Photo: Supplied “Wages have to rise with economic conditions – the cost of living and economic growth in each province,” Mr Jarin told the Bangkok Post.

The minimum daily minimum wage is currently B300 in eight provinces, and ranges from B305 to B310 in others.

This year’s increase will be

the first in three years.

In Phuket the cur rent minimum wage will rise from the current B308 per day to B330.

“This will not have a big effect on medium to large developers in Phuket,” Watchara Jaruariyanon, CEO of Vasi Co Ltd and a key figure in

the Phuket’s construction industry, told The Phuket News.

“It will affect medium to large construction projects by at least 3%, but smaller contractors will feel the effects more with prices for such projects to increase by about 5%,” he said.

Mr Watchara noted that Phuket is already among the provinces paying the highest minimum wage rates in the country – alongside Chonburi and Rayong – and that will not change.

Of note, under proposed minimum wage hike, the base wage rate in Phang Nga and Krabi provinces will rise to B320 per day.

However, Mr Watchara noted, “Phuket’s minimum wage at B330 per day will be more expensive than in any other Southeast Asian country [Note: there is no minimum wage in Singapore – Ed]. So, this will not change for any investors in the construction industry.

“We will still be stable on this issue, but I do worry about the prices of construction materials. The government should look into these prices. They must not raise costs overall, otherwise small contractors will be greatly affected,” he added.

Somyos Wongboonyakul, President of the Phuket Fish-

ery Association, was full of derision for the concept of a minimum wage in Phuket.

“It is bulls**t, they [the government] never look at the reality here. Look up the cost of living in Phuket,” he said.

“We have moved so far from the original standard of B9,900 per month. The real minimum wage for any people in the fishing industry in Phuket is B11,000 per month – regardless if they are Thai, Burmese or Cambodian.

“This, the minimum wage, will not affect seafood prices in Phuket. What does affect the prices is how market vendors and other sellers mark up their margins on seafood here,” Mr Somyos added.

Meanwhile, Khattiya Pendach, Chief of the Phuket Employment Office (PEO), declined to comment on any potential impact the minimum wage hike will have for people who rely on the services from his office.

“I don’t want to give any comment until this is approved,” he said.

12 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

Lie back and think of Krabi Club Med inks B2.8bn partner deal to open new Andaman resort HOSPITALITY The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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h a i l a n d ’s A p e x Development PCL this week signed an agreement with Club Med to launch an all-inclusive resort in Krabi with an investment of US$90 million (B2.86 billion).

The resort, to be located on Haad Yao (“Long Beach”) some 30 kilometres south of Krabi International Airport, is scheduled to open in 2021.

The deal was announced at a signing ceremony hosted by Xavier Desaulles, Club Med CEO for East and South Asia Pacific (ESAP), at Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido in Japan on Thursday last week (Jan 18).

A t t h e e ve n t , A p e x Chai r man Pong phan Sampawakoop announced the det ails of his latest development to assembled media, reports Wimintra Jangni of HotelIntel.co.

The property will offer 300 rooms in a range of categories along with a further 50 suites

for the Exclusive Collection.

“The resort will offer direct beachfront access to guests while providing the exciting variety of sporting activities which have proved so successful in upholding the Club Med concept down the years,” said the report.

Club Med K rabi will become the second Club Med in Thailand, following in the footsteps of the first, located on 39 rai at Kata Beach in Phuket.

While Krabi is anticipated to play a n i ncreasi ngly significant role in Thailand’s tourism sector in the coming years, it is also expected that the collaboration between Apex Development and Club Med will lead to a mutually rewarding par t nership combining the reputation of Club Med as a global leader in all-inclusive resorts with the long experience of Apex in developing resorts and residences, reported HotelIntel.co.

Since its founding in 1950, Club Med has maintained its impressive performance in

The move to open the resort in Krabi looks to offer direct beachfront access to guests while providing the exciting variety of sporting activities which have proved so successful in upholding the Club Med concept down the years. Photo: Club Med / Facebook international holiday market.

The resort giant is present in 30 countries has tallied some 1,24mn (and counting) stays at its venues. In 2016 alone, the company garnered 40mn visits to its digital platforms and social networks, including 33 websites in 14 languages.

Club Med reported its business volume for the Winter 2017 season – from November 2016 to April 2017 – at €875mn (B34.05bn), up 6.5% year-on-year.

Thai property developer Apex Development, listed in the Stock Exchange of T h a i la nd (SET ) w it h a registered capital of B1.49bn, has also become a key player in the Thai ​c om mercial proper t y development market, including playing key roles in the development of the Mövenpick Resort & Residences in Jomtien, Pattaya, and the Sheraton Phuket Grand Bay Resort and Grand Bay Residences at Ao Po, on Phuket’s east coast.

T he She r at on G r a nd Bay Resort and Grand Bay Residences project area is to encompass some 66 rai comprising the Sheraton Phuket Hotel of 183 keys with an estimated value at B2.19bn, and the Grand Bay Residences consisting of 80 Pool Villas totalling 150 units with an estimated value at B2bn.

“Construction and decoration schedule for the residences component to be completed and ownership transferred to recognized revenue in year 2019, and the Sheraton Phuket Hotel scheduled construction and decoration completion, and opening is in the middle of year 2020,” Apex notes on its website.

The choice of Krabi underlines Club Med’s penchant for expansion into undiscovered yet idyllic destinations, while the company’s focus on green initiatives ensures that the project will be undertaken within the constraints set by Club Med’s Green Globe certification, minimising

SCB seeks to trim staff in digital era BANKING S I A M C O M M E RC I A L Bank (SCB) plans to downsize from 27,000 employees

to 15,000 over the next three years and transform more than 600 branches to ready itself for the digital banking era.

The bank is also poised to reduce its traditional branches

from 1,153 to 400 between 2018 and 2020, said chief executive Arthid Nanthawithaya.

SCB does not plan to lay off workers, said Mr Arthid,

adding 3,000 employees, on average, resign annually.

Thailand’s second-largest lender by assets has been gradually closing its traditional outlets, while rotating

any adverse impact upon the beautiful natural site the resort will occupy, Hotelintel noted in its report.

“Back in the 1990s, about 25 years ago, I first came to know about Club Med,” Club Med’s Mr Desaulles recalled at the press conference.

“I went to Kuantan, Malaysia, the very first Club Med to exist in Asia. I was sur prised and impressed with the friendly hospitality rendered to all the guests, and all the sports facilities – and more than that, the variety of surprises and entertainment.

“I feel it was a lot of fun, and I thought to myself that one of these days I would try to develop a resort with Club Med,” he added.

“Since then, over the last 25 years I’ve seen many Club Med resorts around the world, and I’ve witnessed the high standards that are still there since day one when I came to know Club Med. “So today I feel ver y happy that my passion has come true with Club Med,” Mr Desaulles said.

Mr Arthid (left), Thana T hi enac hari ya , c hi e f marketing officer, and Arak Sutivong, senior executive vice-president, deliver SCB’s new vision. Photo: Somruedi Banchongduang and offering a training programme for branch staff, he said. The bank still recruits new employees to fill needs in some areas.

SCB’s move is further intended to strengthen the organisation in the long-run, said Mr Arthid.

“In the digital age, size does not matter. We will be smaller as a physical organisation, but larger in customer experiences,” he said.

The bank plans to close 99 traditional branches this year and open a new branch model called Express – an automated branch with a handful of employees. Between 150-200 Express outlets are targeted to be opened by year-end, up from 15 at present.

“I have worked at SCB for more than 10 years in the retail division. I was shocked to learn about the downsizing program.

“Management did not at any point indicate that a massive layoff was in sight.

We have been given little to no guidance as to which staff are more vulnerable moving forward,” said a bank analyst

who requested anonymity.

“The bank is financially healthy, as far as I am concerned, and is adapting well to the digital technologies that are disrupting other players in the industry.

“I am unsure as to the motivation of the move. More than half of us within three years.

“Banks are hiring less and less, particularly for employees that have grown professionally in the bank, the skills we bring to the table may no longer be needed.”

Another SCB employee said, “I knew this day would come sooner or later. Fortunately, the bank gave a threeyear notice, which will allow us to upgrade our skills and adapt to the rapidly changing financial industry. Hopefully three years will be enough to find a new job.”

The bank’s other three branch models have been classified as business centres (three outlets in operation), investment centres (four outlets), and service centres (one outlet).

Bangkok Post thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

BISP student heading to public speaking final

15

Instant print cameras are making a comeback

16

MOVE OVER BRUNCH! Hyatt Regency’s ‘Pool Linner’ ups the ante on Sunday dining

With six hours of delicious food, entertainment, swimming and free-flow drinks, ‘The Pool Linner’ is hard to beat for a lazy Sunday.

Mark Knowles editor1@classactmedia.co.th

W

hen an invitation to the Hyatt Regency’s latest entrant into the island’s highly competitive Sunday brunch scene landed on my desk recently, I thought there must have been some mistake.

“Join us for The Pool Linner!” exclaimed the invitation.

“Is this a spelling mistake?” I asked my colleague, puzzled.

“Well, think about it… if a brunch is between breakfast and lunch, then linner must be between lunch and dinner.”

Huh… that seemed to make perfect sense, and although I’d never come across this idea before, as I read the rest of the invitation it began to make more and more sense. Like many Sunday brunches around the island The Hyatt Regency’s “Pool Linner” starts at 12pm, but instead of winding up at the usual 3pm, it goes all the way through to 6pm. That means you can graze on the sumptuous buffet and dessert table for hours and still have plenty of time to take advantage of the included access to the resort’s massive beachfront swimming pool and comfy sun loungers – and the free flow drinks never stop coming.

With this in mind, I made sure to throw a book in my bag, along with my swimming gear, before my companion and I made our way over to Kamala for

@thephuketnews

our first ever “linner” experience last Sunday. Before long we found ourselves seated in the breezy outdoor pavilion of the Hyatt Regency’s Pool Bar, the friendly staff plying us with welcome drinks as the two-piece live band sang laid-back versions of the latest Latininspired hits.

We had skipped breakfast in anticipation, so the wafting aroma of barbecued meat from the live cooking stations soon drew us over to the buffet to get started. It was an impressive layout featuring platters of fresh crabs, giant prawns and scallops, tender roast beef and pork, smoked salmon, Thai and Western salads, fresh breads, baked pasta and vegetable dishes, cold cuts and much more besides.

Some of the tastiest morsels weren’t even on the buffet, from time to time the staff would come around with small individual dishes fresh from the kitchen – the baked salmon in citrus sauce and crispy and thin Italian-style pizza slices were two particular highlights here.

After our long grazing session on the buffet wound down, the epic dessert table was unveiled and we headed over to have a look. But we were pleasantly waylaid by the offer of a neck and shoulder massage by the experienced therapists from the Hyatt Regency’s Nahm Spa… this linner just kept getting better!

After our massage and desserts (two mini coconut crème brûlées for me) we took out our tickets in anticipation of the lucky prize draw. As part of the

day’s entertainment tickets are sold for the chance to win prizes, such as a free dinner worth B5,000 at the resort’s flagship restaurant Sunset Grill. But perhaps the most fun prize is the chance to throw Executive Chef Mario Caramella into the pool.

Mario is all too happy to get soaked as all the money raised is donated to the very worthy Phuket Child Watch charity. This is part of Hyatt Regency’s effort to support Phuket’s unprivileged kids and to also increase tourists’ awareness of some of the difficult problems the island faces.

I was lucky enough to win the chance to throw Chef Mario in the pool, along with three other helpful guests. After that there was nothing left to do but to take a languid dip in the pool then find a suitable sun lounger to stretch out on, read my book and sip cool drinks until the sun began to sink into the horizon.

Suffice to say that I was won over by my first ever “Pool Linner” experience and it certainly won’t be my last.

‘The Pool Linner’ at Hyatt Regency Phuket with six hours of free flow drinks, buffet and live cooking station, fun live charity auction, DJ and live music, complimentary shoulder and neck massage and access to pool and sun loungers is priced at B1,950/person including free flow fruit juices and soft drinks and B2,850/person including full beverage package. For reservations contact: fnb.phuhr@hyatt.com or call 076 231 234 ext. 5106

14 ADVERTORIAL

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

Bask in luxury living at Banyan Tree Phuket

…where a fine lifestyle is your reward for sound investment

B

anyan Tree Residences offers a rare opportunity to invest in your own signature villa and receive annual return of 5% for 5 years.

The brand-new Three-bedroom Pool Villas are located within the world-famous Banyan Tree Phuket and adjacent to Laguna Golf Phuket, set amidst a stretch of scenic lagoons and a breathtaking backdrop of mountains.

With only eight villas available, the Residences come with the incomparable Banyan Tree touch – renowned for its personalized attention, luxurious interior design and tropical Asian spirit. Each residence is designed around a poolside terrace opening out to swimming pool with Jacuzzi and outdoor shower with a raised relaxation sala providing a serene view overlooking the villa. Thoughtfully designed with romance and privacy in mind, these villas comprise three bedrooms with spacious opened plan living and dining areas.

With the Residences professionally managed by Banyan Tree Phuket, owners enjoy a special investment opportunity in addition to the exclusive Ban-

yan Tree lifestyle with 5% return for 5 years* and receive 60 days complimentary stay use every year.

A world of privileges and rewards also awaits buyers of Banyan Tree Residences, including complimentary membership to The Sanctuary Club, which brings discounts and privileges across the group’s global network of 43 resorts and hotels, over 66 spas and 80 retail galleries plus three championship golf courses. Owners will also enjoy a five-year member-

ship to Angsana Vacation Club, and golf membership at Laguna Golf Club.

For more information, or to arrange a private inspection please contact residences@banyantree.com or call +66 (0)76 362 333. Visit our website : www.banyantreeresidences.com *Terms and conditions apply thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

EDUCATION 15

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

Public speaking skills mastered BISP student impresses judges to earn place at National Final in Bangkok The Phuket News editor1@classactmedia.co.th

B

ritish International School, Phuket Year 12 student Thanadon “Albert” Tantivit has been selected to compete at the Thailand National Final of the English Speaking Union Public Speaking Competition. The National Final, organised by the ESU together with the Ministry of Education, will be held in Bangkok on March 30.

Thanadon won his way into the National Final by being ranked as one of the top 10 of 68 students who competed in the semi-final round in Bangkok on Sunday, January 21.

At only 16, Thanadon was one of the youngest competitors and was up against students from some of Thailand’s most prestigious universities. He drew on his previous experience of debating and skills learnt as a member of the BISP Public Speaking and Debating Club.

Thanadon presented a five minute prepared speech to the given theme of “The Best Way to Predict the Future is to Invent It”. Impressed by both his confident delivery and the depth of his content, the judges selected Thanadon to go through to the impromptu round where he had only 15 minutes to prepare a second speech on the theme “You are

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Thanadon ‘Albert’ Tantivit’s speech on the topic ‘The Best Way to Predict the Future is to Invent It’ saw him enter into the impromptu round.

What You Read”. Both the judges and the audience were wowed by Thanadon’s articulate critique of the media’s portrayal of women in beauty magazines and advertisements.

Thanadon’s coach Ms Leica Burley said that she was very impressed with his performance. “He is extremely perceptive about global affairs and can think creatively under pressure. He has taken every opportunity to learn and grow from the competition so far, and I

look forward to seeing what he can do at the National Final”.

The National Final, to be held in Bangkok on March 30, will see the top ten students present a prepared speech on the theme “Great Artists Have No Country”. Based on this speech, the top three students will go on to an impromptu round. The winner will be named the Thailand National Champion and will go to London in May to compete at the International Final.

The top 10 speakers out of the field of 68.

This is the second year that BISP has been involved in this competition under the direction of Ms Burley, BISP’s Key Stage 3 Coordinator and English teacher. Last year, Year 12 student Rebecca Preen was chosen as the national finalist to represent Thailand and made it all the way to the international semi-finals in London, competing alongside 53 other 16-20 year olds who were each representing their country.

16 TECHNOLOGY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

Everything old is new again The instant photo camera, popularised by Polaroid, just keeps keeping on APPLICATION ABCS Amy Bensema bensema.amy@gmail.com

F

ilm is not dead. In the case of instant photography, everything old is new again.

Recently, there has been a resurgence in film. Most of the revival has come from the variety of instant cameras on the market. In this day and age, although handy, smartphone cameras have destroyed classic photography as most people reach for their phones instead of their DSLR. To that end, it’s refreshing to see instant cameras and the vintageinspired prints they produce making a comeback.

Captivated by instant-picture photography? Two of the most popular instant cameras on the market today, the Leica Sofort and Fujifilm Instax Mini 9, are well worth the investment.

Frame the Moment: The Leica Sofort Released in late 2016, the Leica Sofort is the first instant camera from the German company. It is an adorable instant camera that shoots tiny, business-card sized photographs. While the camera is not as high end as the company’s other offerings, it is current-

The Leica Sofort. Photo: Leica ly one of the most sought after instant cameras on the market.

Not to be taken too seriously, the camera brings the fun – Leica Sofort is there to capture life’s magical moments.

The camera comes in three contemporary colours – orange, mint and white – and features simple operation and a variety of manual settings.

The Leica Sofort has a program to suit every occasion. Simply pick the program you need, focus on your subject and shoot. The Leica Sofort also allows users to take control of the flash, focusing distance and exposure compensation.

Although more expensive than other instant cameras, the Leica Sofort is affordable with prices starting as low as B9,000.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 9. Photo: Fujifilm Classic Vibes: Fujifilm Instax Mini The Fujifilm Instax Mini are a series of tiny cameras that are easy to use. Inspired by the days before digital cameras, the Fujifilm Instax Mini features stylish designs and prints out credit-card sized images.

One of the most popular cameras in the series is the Fujifilm Instax Mini 9. Available in Flamingo Pink, Cobalt Blue, Lime Green, Ice Blue and Smoky White, the camera is as stylish as it is functional. This particular model has a 60mm f/12.7-f/32 Fujinon lens that is in focus from two feet to infinity. The optimal viewfinder is spot on and there is a built-in flash as well as auto-exposure mode.

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 also features a selfie mirror, manual bright-

ness adjustment and a macro lens attachment. It is a durable little instant camera with a great price. In Thailand, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 starts at an affordable B3,000.

Not willing to throw down the cash for an instant camera? Check out the Polaroid Instant Mobile App instead.

Designed with the spirit of vintage Polaroid Instant Cameras in mind, the app allows users to select a photo from their library or shoot a new one. Afterwards, add an authentic Polaroid-like filter and select Polaroid-style frames, add text and share instantly.

The variety of instant cameras and apps on the market today invoke the perfect blend of nostalgic instant photography and modern technology. Get on out there and get snap happy!

thephuketnews

18 ISLAND SCENE

Staff were always on hand with some new delicacy.

Guests relaxed by the pool between trips to the buffet.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

The live band played laid-back Latin pop by the pool.

Four lucky guests won the chance to throw Chef Marco in the pool.

CHEF MARCO GETS SOAKED FOR CHARITY DURING ‘THE POOL LINNER’ Hyatt Regency’s second “The Pool Linner” – like a brunch, but between lunch and dinner – kicked off at noon last Sunday (Jan 21) . Guests enjoyed an amazing buffet with six hours of free-flow drinks accompanied by live music, lucky draws for charity, as well as complimentary shoulder and neck massages and access to the pool and sun loungers.

The perfect way to spend a Sunday.

From left: Omporn Kowintha, Villa Royale GM Dan Pitakrojananont, Tasana Nagavajara, Cheryl Chan and Esther Ho.

Kathy Manthei Coulson, Marilyn Band, Pro Musica Concertmaster Tasana Nagavajara, Lori Ashton and Jarinee Thongmool.

PRO MUSICA QUARTET PERFORM MOZART AT BAAN KATA ARTS FESTIVAL The annual Baan Kata Arts Fest for 2018 featured a classical music concert entitled “Requiem without Words” in memory of ML Usni Pramoj – founder of Pro Musica and of the Bangkok Symphony. The Pro Musica performed Quartet Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Requiem K. 626 (string quartet version) at Mom Tri’s Villa Royale at Kata Noi Beach on Tuesday, Jan 15.

SWEDISH NATIONAL SWIMMING TEAM VISITS THANYAPURA FOR TRAINING

Members of the Swedish National Swimming Team undertook intensive training at Thanyapura this month.

Thanyapura Health and Sports Resort was the primary training ground for the Swedish Swimming Federation earlier this month, as the national team visited the facility from January 3-18. A number of distinguished athletes were part of the visiting swim team including Michelle Coleman, a 2016 Olympic finalist, EC medallist and WC medallist; Sophie Hansson, 2016 Olympic swimmer and EC medallist; and Simon Sjodin, 2008 and 2016 Olympic swimmer and EC medallist. Photo: Jesper Andersson Photography

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ISLAND SCENE 19

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

From left: Chanintat Pachantabutr, Peter Khor and Governor Norraphat Plodthong.

Many honoured guests were in attendance to mark the opening.

Some of the Phuket Vagabonds boys came down to sample Nuri’s ribs.

Some lovely ladies enjoying a fresh coconut after dinner.

GRAND OPENING PARTY FOR NAUGHTY NURI’S IN THE FOREST, PATONG Naughty Nuri’s, the renowned Balinese BBQ restaurant & bar famous for its “probably the best ribs in the world”, had a remarkable Grand Opening of their first outlet in Phuket last Saturday (Jan 20). This growing porky-chain restaurant has given a memorable experience to more than 500 guests during the lively Grand Opening party.

The Oju Team from back row left: Erik, Tuk, Ryan, Wudi, Younis and Steven. Front row from left: Vivian, Caroline, Yoyo and Alum.

More of the team members behind the OjuT launch.

OJU GROUP HOSTS DISCUSSION ON THE FUTURE OF DIGITAL CURRENCY Phuket-based Oju Group, which has launched its own cryptocurrency OjuT in an ICO aimed at leveraging the company’s expansion to be upheld by real-world assets. Wu Di (or just “Wudi”), the founder and driving force behind the group, recently hosted a discussion on the future of digital currency at the Phuket Boat Lagoon on Friday, Jan 19.

Managing Director of the Thailand Yacht Show Andy Treadwell.

THAILAND YACHT SHOW FOR 2018 PREVIEWED AT AO PO MARINA Andy Treadwell, Managing Director of the Thailand Yacht Show, on Tuesday (Jan 23), hosted an exclusive luncheon and preview of the third edition of the Thailand Yacht Show, staged in partnership with the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand. Returning to Phuket’s Ao Po Grand Marina from February 22-25, the experiential format of the Thailand Yacht Show will be unlike any other boat show, with visitors being able to get out on the water to try out a whole range of watercraft. @thephuketnews

JW Marriott GM Oriol Montal (centre, rear) with some of the many children who received Heinecke Foundation Scholarships during the recent award ceremony.

JW MARRIOTT AWARDS HEINECKE FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa GM Oriol Montal and Human Resources Director Khanisthanee Kanhdanisdha on Monday (Jan 22) awarded scholarships to 57 children under the Heinecke Scholarship Foundation. The scholarship is awarded to children with an outstanding record of academic performance. The students who received the scholarships on Monday are from 32 schools over Phuket, Phang Nga, Satun and Maha Sarakham provinces.

20 EVENTS

FRI

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

SUN

26 JAN

ALL YOU CAN EAT BBQ RIBS

Degustation Menu by Will Holland Will Holland, The Atlantic Hotel, Jersey, Channel Islands “Ocean Restaurant” He has been working in Michelin-starred restaurants since the age of eighteen, now working on the beautiful island of Jersey, his style is more relaxed and informal, but the focus remains on fantastic ingredients, excellent technique and mouth-watering food.Degustation Menu : 26th Jan 2018, Time: 7:30 pm at Cosmo Restaurant 3,750 THB/person Reservations, The Nai Harn Phuket, fbreservation@thenaiharn.com, +66 (0)7638 0200.

Mussels night @ Shakers 1.2kg mussels served with French fries, your choice, your style: natural, marnière, Provençale, garlic and cream or Thai style. Reservations recommended 295 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

Come join us for our WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY served ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Indulge in All You Can Eat BBQ Pork Ribs, Chicken and Sides for ONLY 445 BAHT! Our BBQ is famous at Two Chefs!

Come try us out and enjoy our mouthwatering pork ribs, flavor-bursting chicken and more! Join us for Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band! Come for the FOOD www.twochefs.com

Rotary Weekly Meeting Attitude: How does that affect you?

Speaker: Orthopedic and Spinal Surgeon Dr Teddy Fagerstrom MD – Director of Scandinavian Orthopaedic Laboratory (SOL) and Doctor at Center of Excellence, Prosthetics and Orthotics (CEPO). CEPO is a collaboration between SOL and Mahidol University and Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok. Dress code: SmartCasual. Cost: B550for guests who can register here: https://tinyurl.com/ya8u25a6

SAT

XANA’s Sunday Brunch Spend quality time with friends and family, enjoying a one of a kind Sunday brunch on a perfect day of sunshine by the ocean of XANA Beach Club. Every Sunday from 12.00 to 15.30 hrs. From 1,850++THB. Reservations, XANA Beach Club, info@xanabeachclub.com, 076 358 500.

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet

Sunday Roast All Day All Night 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 445 Baht! Enjoy a Large ALL YOU CAN EAT selection of your favorites!

Featuring: Roast Aussie Beef, Pork Loin and Chicken.

Roasted or Mashed Potatoes. Roasted Mixed Vegetables Flavored with Thyme and Garlic. Yorkshire Pudding and Red Wine Gravy. Enjoy Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band!

Come for the FOOD - RESERVE Your Table Now Online at bit.ly/TwoChefsReservations Check out more details on our website at bit.ly/TwoChefsEvents Reservations, Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong., Kata Beach 076-333-370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344914

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.

Traditional Sunday Roast Served from 2pm. Your Choice of either Roast Beef, Chicken, Loin of Pork or Leg of Lamb Served with Roast & Boiled Potatoes, 3 Fresh Vegetables, Yorkshire Pudding & Gravy. Only 320 Baht. Includes a Free Glass of House Red or White. See: www.otoolsphuket.com

Go Live Sunday Seafood Brunch The Banyan Tree Brunch experience offers a generous selection of live fresh, local and imported seafood with exceptional lobster dishes, Japanese starters, mouth-watering meats, Asian wok and Western grill treats. Gourmet cuisine, exceptional service, live jazz and tranquil surroundings, The Banyan Tree Brunch has something for everyone! Every Sunday 12pm 3:30pm, Prices start from B2,800 net per person. For reservations email: fb-phuket@banyantree.com or call 076 372 400.

Chilling & Grilling at Sala Phuket Chilling & Grilling at Sala Phuket on Saturday, Jan 27 from 2:30pm to 5:30pm with DJ Q Narongwate, BBQ Buffet and Drink specials. Pricing B850 per adults / B450 for under 12’s. For more information at: www. salaphuket.com, call 076 338 888 or email events@ salaphuket.com. SALA Phuket Resort and Spa.

BBQ Seafood Buffet at Sala Bua Beachfront Restaurant BBQ Seafood Buffet at Sala Bua Beachfront Restaurant at Impiana Resort Patong. Spoil yourself with a Seafood BBQ Buffet featuring a variety of main dishes cooked in BBQ style. Come and crack open some crab legs, peel some prawns, and sip some spicy Tom Yum, Sushi and Sashimi, grilled mussels, grilled squid, rock lobster, salad and dessert! Available for dinner every Friday from 6.30pm to 10pm. Price: THB 990 net / person Tel: 076 340 138 Email: fb.patong@ impiana.com

28 JAN

27 JAN

Curry Cravings In Karon Come to Navrang Mahal in Karon Sea Sands Resort & Spa for an authentic Indian Feast every Friday (starting Dec 1, 2017), in Karon Beach. Try out some of our delicious appetizers and mains such as: Aloo Tikki, Samosas, Chicken Tandoori, Aloo Gobi, Navrang Korma, Butter Chicken, Lamb Vindaloo, Naan, Rice, Salads, Chutneys / Achars, Gulab Jamun, Fruits, Onion Bhaji, Bomay Potatoes, Dal Makhini, Ice-cream etc etc.

(Menus subject to change and variety). For only 499/nett and special reduced prices on drinks. Booking: 076 286 464 Ext 4.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

The Pool Linner at Hyatt Regency Join us the experience a fun culinary adventure: “The Pool Linner” with six hours of full of free flow drinks, buffet and live cooking station, fun live charity auction, DJ and live music, complimentary shoulder and neck massage and access to pool and sun loungers. At the pool bar. Pricing B1,950/person includes free flow fruit juices and soft drinks, B2,850/person includes full beverage package. For reservations contact: fnb.phuhr@ hyatt.com or call 076 231 234.

MON

29 JAN

Sala Steak & Seafood Sunday Grill All you can eat BBQ night 6pm – 11pm: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns & Squid, Salad buffet, Choice of potatoes and sauces, bread, buns and garlic bread. Reservation recommended. 395 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

Premium main courses including imported steaks and whole lobster, accompanied by a buffet of delicious appetizers. Every Sunday from 6.30pm with live music performed by the ‘Colin Illy Hill Band’. Pricing B1,700++/person and B3,200++/couple. For more information visit www.salaphuket.com or contact SALA Phuket Resort and Spa by email at fbphuket@salaphuket.com or call 076 338 888.

All you can eat BBQ night 6pm – 11pm: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns & Squid, Salad buffet, Choice of potatoes and sauces, bread, buns and garlic bread. Reservation recommended. 395 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

MON

EVENTS 21

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

FRI

29 JAN

2 FEB

Quiz Night - Rotary Club Patong

Nicole Moudaber at Baba Beach Club Phuket

The Rotary Club of Patong Beach cordially invites everybody to consume (responsibly) for a cause at the Aussie Pub Kamala’s trivia night. Raffles + trivia + drinks + food + raising money for charity = A) fun B) very fun C) boring ? If your answer is A or B, show up by 7:30 p.m. See www.rotarypatong.org for more information.

Nicole Moudaber (MOOD Records / Intec / Drumcode), is an event promoter, record label founder, radio host, and one of the most passionately followed DJ/ producers in the world. Support by Thailand’s rising female artist: Mendy Indigo. NO COVER CHARGE. RSVP ONLY. Daytime event from 2pm at Baba Beach Club Phuket. For more info & bookings 076 429 388 or phuket@bababeachclub.com

Meeting - Rotary Club Patong The Rotary Club of Patong Beach cordially invites guests and prospective members to attend its regular meetings. The cost for non-members is THB 500 and includes lunch. The meeting begins at 12 p.m. at the Millennium Resort in Patong. Please visit www.rotarypatong.org for additional information.

The Blue Horizon World Corporate Golf Challenge Thailand 1st Qualifier The Blue Horizon World Corporate Golf Challenge Thailand Tees off on Feb 10 at Laguna Golf Phuket.

The WCGC Thailand Series will have six qualifiers around Thailand culminating in the National Final in Phuket on April 28. The winner will travel to Portugal to represent Thailand in the World Final. Email: events@ foremanagment.com

The 21st Bay Regatta

Monthly Pub Quiz Night at the Aussie Pub Kamala Our monthly Pub Quiz Night at the Aussie Pub Kamala has been a blast with over B60,000 raised so far! Are you going to help us top B100,000 by the end of the year? Join us, it’s a great way to get to know your fellow Rotarians, bring your friends. All proceeds go to the charity “Rotary Club of Patong Beach”. There is a lucky draw and a small participation fee so bring a little cash as well :-) It’s a lot of fun! Guests can register here: tinyurl.com/y9v5rlkm

WED

The 21st Bay Regatta is expected to be the biggest yet and will firmly stand out as one of South East Asia’s finest yachting events. Taking place with a backdrop of some of the most beautiful scenery the region has to offer the four days racing and daily prize giving dinners will bring a buzz of excitement to Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi. Visit: Facebook.com/bayregatta, email: Kae Wattana at bayregatta@regattas.asia or call 081 538 8848.

THU

1 FEB

31 JAN

SURF & TURF NIGHT EVERY WEDNESDAY @ TWO CHEFS ALL YOU CAN EAT! GRILLED AUSTRALIAN RIB EYE STEAK, TERIYAKI MARINATED CHICKEN AND GRILLED TIGER PRAWNS WITH BBQ SAUCE, RED WINE SAUCE AND BEARNAISE SAUCE CEASAR SALAD AND HERB SAUTEED POTATOES. ONLY 495 BAHT. Two Chefs Live Band on stage from 8 pm until late. WWW.twochefs.com Karon 076-286-479, Patong 076-344-914, Kata Beach 076-333-370, Kata Center 076-330-065 COME FOR THE FOOD | STAY FOR THE FUN!! Reservations, TWO CHEFS KARON – PATONG – KATA CENTER.

ing Caftans, “Hair,” psychedelic Colours Galore and Flower Power. Wrap yourself in the “Swinging 60s” for a night. “A Hard Day’s Night” & “Good Vibrations” are guaranteed. Dress: Optional but crazy 1960s gear preferred to look groovy. From 6.30pm at Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort. Come along and buy a “Ticket to Ride.” B2500 for buffet and one drink. All proceeds go directly toward helping Thai children’s education. Silent auction, raffles, MC Garry Holden of The Thaiger radio. Contact: Lyn Carthew, President, Event Organiser. Email: lyncarthew@hotmail.com

Boat Lagoon Weekend Beats & Bites Music & Food & Fun. 2-3 February 2018 from 6.00pm till 10.00pm at Lagoon Quay.

Phuket Boat Lagoon, 095 012 2442 / 076 239 888 ext. 618.

SAT

10 FEB

TUE

13 FEB

Afraid of public speaking?

Toastmasters can help.

Looking to develop your public speaking and leadership skills? Ignite your career? Join Toastmasters Phuket and start making yourself a leader today!

Meetings held the 2nd and 4th Tue of every month at Mövenpick Resort Bangtao Beach Phuket. Contact Jason on 086 479 7471 for more info: phuketprofessionals.toastmastersclubs.org

Phuket Business Dinner PHUKET BUSINESS DINNER by British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) on “Update and Future Plans for Thailand’s Kra Isthmus Project” on Thursday, February 1, 2018 at Amari Phuket. Speakers: Gen Pongthep Thesprateep, Chairman of Thai Canal Association and Pakdee Tanapura, Board member and International Director of Thai Canal Association. Cost and Payment: B890 per person . Payment at the door direct to hotel. Booking on website: https://tinyurl.com/ y7wmjq5o. For more information contact Greg Watkins by email at: greg@bccthai or call 026 515 350-3.

The Codfather Murder Mystery at the Green Man Grab your tommy guns, flappers and molls and head to the Green Man in Chalong from 6:30pm for The Codfather – the latest Murder Mystery from Theatrix Production’s Dying to Act team. We’re given’em an offer dey can’t refuse… just B550 to enjoy a welcome drink, four courses of pub finger food, plus a dastardly tale of murder and mayhem among the speakeasies, gangsters and dames of prohibition era Chicago.

Solve the murder(s) and win great prizes!

EVERY DAY

CHEF PABLO’S DEGUSTATION MENU All you can eat BBQ Ribs night 6pm – 11pm: All you can eat BBQ ribs served with salad buffet, potato salad & choice of sauces. Reservation recommended. 350 baht P.P. shakersphuket@ gmail.com 081 891 4381.

@thephuketnews

All you can eat BBQ night 6pm – 11pm: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns & Squid, Salad buffet, Choice of potatoes and sauces, bread, buns and garlic bread. Reservation recommended. 395 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

Everything’s Groovy PIWC Annual Fundraiser Dinner The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys, Bob Dylan, Jimmy Hendrix, Bell Bottom Jeans, Billow-

Celebrating our Thailand Tatler’s BEST Restaurants Award: Come and indulge in a succulent 5 course tasting menu including Foie Gras, pumpkin soup, Alaska Scallop, slow cooked Duck breast & Baba au Rhum.

“Grape juice” pairing available! THB 1,390++ Reservations and full menu: dedos-restaurant.com 076 325 182 8 Lagoon Rd., Laguna, Cherng Talay.

22 TIME OUT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 1. Who wrote the book The Invisible Man? 2. The world’s tallest arch, the 192-metre high Gateway Arch, is in which American city?

3. What colour is the background of the Saudi Arabian flag?

4. Who is American actress Kate Capshaw married to?

5. What is a “muntin”?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

Easy

Across 1. Sympathetic response 5. Ice cream treat made with bananas 10. Highway exit 14. What every thing is 15. Egyptian city 16. Qatari leader 17. Check for fingerprints 18. Hearsay 19. Well known list 20. Plant process 23. Flowery verse 24. Happiness 25. Shoptalk 29. Good place to get in hot water 31. Perpendicular 35. Munch on 37. Period 39. Part of a price 40. Tourist’s aid 44. Deserter 45. Huge racket 46. Emotional pang 47. Evaluation 50. Heavy-duty cleanser 52. South American mountain range 53. Word with frog or

13. Mavens 21. Add together 22. Fortune 25. African capital 26. Birds of the pampas 27. Monies in slang 28. Mice predator 30. Small change 32. Tip 33. Get together 34. Bonny hillsides 36. Doctorate 38. Document 41. Artist’s application 42. Flooded 43. Least amount Down (abbr.)

1. Wrong __ of the 48.

Kind of shrub stick 49. Right on!

2. Masterstroke 51. Tied 3. Silence 54. Tops 4. Over 56. Nincompoops 5. New England 57. Canter catch 58. Cain’s victim 6. Short breaks 59. Christmastime 7. Tart, perhaps 8. Kettles and frying 60. Pedro’s coin 61. Final words pans about someone 9. Bakery order 62. Minuscule 10. Quote 63. Big bag 11. Bible book 67. “Thar ___ blows!”

12. Mid-calf skirt year 55. “___ in victory” (grade school lesson) 57. Pictures of fields and lakes 64. Instrument 65. Postures 66. Slant 68. ___ group, social status 69. Follow as a result 70. Creep 71. Chipotle founder, Steve 72. Breaks off 73. Youngster

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) HG Wells; 2) St Louis; 3) Green; 4) Steven Spielberg; 5) A strip holding and separating panes of glass in a window

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

4

This week in history Jan 26, 1808 The Rum Rebellion, the only successf ul (albeit shor t-lived) armed takeover of the government in Australia, takes hold as New South Wales Governor William Bligh is deposed by the New South Wales Corps under the command of Major George Johnston, working closely with John Macarthur.

out of 10 Americans have never moved from their hometown.

5

Jan 27, 1606 Gunpowder Plot: The trial of Guy Fawkes and other conspirators begins, ending with their execution on January 31.

minutes is how long the capybara, the world’s largest rodent, can stay underwater at a time.

20

Jan 28, 1941 Franco-Thai War: Final air battle of the conflict. A Japanese-mediated armistice goes into effect later in the day.

pounds (9.07kg) of eggplant contains the same amount of nicotine found in one cigarette.

Jan 29, 904 Sergius III comes out of retirement to take over the papacy from the deposed antipope Christopher.

61

Jan 30, 1703 The Forty-seven Ronin, under the command of Ōishi Kuranosuke, avenge the death of their master.

per cent is how much a US job applicant’s chances can be negatively affected by having a visible tattoo.

111

is how many handbags the average woman in the UK will own in her lifetime.

420,000 people die every year from tainted food.

Source: Uberfacts

Jan 31, 2012 The Toyota Corolla becomes the best-selling car of all time, with more than 37.5 million units sold.

The day’s end at Kata Noi. Photo by Patrizio Forci Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket?

Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

Feb 1, 1972 Kuala Lumpur becomes a city by a royal charter granted by the Yang diPertuan Agong of Malaysia.

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

Jobs

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

Trades & Services

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

Buy & Sell

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

BAR, RESTAURANT Bar staff wanted

nt rge

Blondie Bar 2 at Otop Market Patong U requires Bar Staff. Thai nationals only. Good salary and room provided.

Phone Mick: 081 087 6114.

BUSINESSES FOR SALE SURIN: LUXURIOUS BAR-RESTAURANT SALE

Totally renovated, Italian design & furniture, all-new imported kitchen & bar equipment, ready to operate. Large Bar, DJ booth, garden lounge, rooftop. Seats 50 indoors, 50 in garden, 40 rooftop. Pablo: 080 143 5541.

BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE 6.2m Hypalon Stingray RIB

“Ready to go” w 175hp 4str Suzuki w 130hrs, 8hp aux, dble axle trailer, Garmin 521S, 160L fuel and full set of gear. Top condition. Call Harry: 081 273 1740.

FINANCIAL, LEGAL Cryptocurrency Market Trading

If you can store your Bitcoin and purchase Cryptocurrency market Trading from TRC trade then you can loan your TRC and you get a day by day advantage. Your month-to-month benefit is up to 45% and your yearly benefit is likewise huge.

Email: taurusbit123@gmail.com or call 021 180 427.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Flat roof waterproofing

We do flat roof waterproofing with 20 year warranty by installing quality four layer slate spotted bitumen torch foil + crack repair! office@tcm-asia.com, 086 943 9834, 076 385 081.

MOTORBIKES FOR SALE Kawasaki Z300 ABS for Sale

Kawasaki Z300 ABS for sale. Good condition, from owner. Year: 2015. Colour: yellow and black. Price: B150,000. Bo in Cherngtalay/Pasak, email: cherngtalay@gmail.com or Call 076 615 810 or 076 615 811.

REAL ESTATE SERVICES Property in Phuket!

Looking to buy property in Phuket?

International Property Advisory (IPA) can help! Give us a call today on 076 604 260/ 098 064 4408/ 080 886 9660 Email: info@ipa. black, utopia@ipa.black Website: www.ipaphuket.com

REAL ESTATE SERVICES Chatta Real Estate

REAL ESTATE & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT. Chattha Real Estate and Professional Rental Management in Phuket. SELL-BUY-RENTMANAGEMENT-MAINTENACE-GUARANTEED RENTAL. Inquire NOW! www.chattha.asia, 076 636 244 or 090 179 6635. Contact Chanapa at Chattha Real Estate Co., Ltd., Email: info@chattha.asia

PROPERTY FOR SALE Chalong Office, Workshop/Store

300sqm office on 2 floors with all services incl.3 phone lines + 300sqm undercover workshop/store with 4m ht & 3 phase.

Chanote 0.5rai. B12,000,000, Simon Jupe, 29/4 Soi Nayai, Chalong, Phuket 83130. Email: simonj@ cscoms.com or call +66 (0)87 883 2542 @thephuketnews

PROPERTY FOR SALE

PROPERTY FOR SALE RPM owner direct

Unique luxury condo 2 bed, 2 bath, 155sqm. Foreign FREE HOLD. Architect remodel. New Jacuzzi. Views to lake, mountain, marina, pool etc. Completely furnished to a high standard, toothbrush only required. Owner leaving Thailand. Priced at 16MB for quick sale. Contact Brian (Owner) 089 054 4354, 076 360 943. bggvirgo@gmail.com RoyalPhuketMarinaCondos.com

sa nt e g r

U

le

Babylon Sky Garden Condominium

New Rawai Sea View Freehold Condominium with roof-top garden and 2 swimming pools. Rental Guarantee Program available 7% x 3yrs or 5% x 5yrs Starting price 3.5 mil THB. Email: sales@babylonskygarden.com or call 099 406 7068.

28 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Buy & Sell

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

PROPERTY FOR SALE New Kamala house for sale

A-C , One bedroom, One living room, WCshower, WIFI, TV cable, 58sqm, terrace, Very quiet and secure place, Chanote title. 2.5MB, call: 098 053 2042.

Freehold studio at low price

Freehold 36m2 studio, opposite the Lotus Tesco hypermarket of Phuket Town, freehold condominium; perfect for long stay or for investment B1.9 million. Email: mguillien@gmail.com or call 097 920 2339.

80m2 freehold condo in Patong

Freehold 80m2, 2-bedroom apartment in quiet condo with swimming pool in Patong. Ideal investment in most active tourist area in Phuket. B5.9 million, Michel GUILLIEN, Andaman Beach Suites, Unit 1604, Patong, Phuket. Email: mguillien@gmail.com or call 097 920 2339.

Property for Sale

Ocean View Kata.Fully furnished 1-bedroom condo 44.2.sqm."Sea and sunset views over Kata Bay". For details email: ianscondo21@gmail.com

KOH MAK ISLAND

3 rai with 50 metres of beach, 2 floor bungalow with 4-bedroom and living room. Very good/nice view from bungalow. About 2km from James Bond IslandÂť only 4.4 million baht, Jostein Pedersen, KOH MAK ISLAND. Email: jospeder@live.no or call 089 872 6895

PROPERTY FOR RENT Property 5 Mins Ao Po Grand Marina.

Very big house 750 sqm, Land 4,000 sqm, available 15 June, 5 bed rooms, 6 bathrooms, swimming pool, jacuzzi, close to UWCT school, including pool/garden/service/wifi-tv/sat.

Google map: tiny.cc/deltaho, Contact owner (Alain): mrdupouy@yahoo.fr. Long term 145,000/Month, Email Alain: mrdupouy@yahoo.fr or call 081 893 5270.

PROPERTY FOR SALE sa nt e g r

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PROPERTY FOR SALE

Large Pool Villa For Sale

Large house for sale with private swimming U pool, 3 floors, walled garden with private parking and 656sqm of land. 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom with maid's room. Home office and nice outdoor living space by New Modern Villa 5 Mins Ao the pool. Located in Soi Kokyang - Saiyuan (Rawai/Naiharn Po Grand Marina. area). Just 5-mins from Naiharn Beach. Freehold by owner.

200 sqm, land 500 sqm, 3 bed- B12mn. Leena: ldewis77@gmail.com or 095 061 2868. rooms, 4 bathrooms, swimming pool, close to UWCT school. Including: pool/garden/ COMMUNITY wifi/TV.SAT/services. Google map: tiny.cc/deltaho.

Contact owner (Alain): mrdupouy@yahoo.fr. 65,000/ month, Alain, 57/3 Moo.3 Soi Ban Bang Pae,T. Paklok, T. Talang, Phuket 83110. Email: mrdupouy@yahoo.fr or call 081 893 5270.

5-bed pool villa, 1.2 Rai

3 detached buildings, L-shaped open plan living, Western kitchen, guest suite, pool 11mx5m, quiet residential area. 1.2 rai plot. THB19,750,000. Contact Mrs Simpson by email: thaivillaonline@gmail.com or call 084 447 7248. More info at: thaivillaonline.com

JOBS

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

SPORT 29

‘I’VE NEVER LOOKED BACK’ Continued from page 32 ...She now trains in Phuket for a large portion of the year and she says that “coming back to Southeast Asia and basing myself in Phuket felt somewhat like coming back home”.

Simmonds has always been pretty sporty, in fact her first time visiting Thailand was when she was eight years old.

“I went to Bangkok for an international swim meet representing the Hong Kong Mantas. I competed as a sports scholar in multiple team sports through secondary school and went on to be the vice-captain of the Imperial College London lacrosse team,” Simmonds explained in a recent interview with The Phuket News.

“I started doing triathlons three and a half years ago, and have been hooked since. I love being able to combine three sports, which also makes training so much more interesting and varied,” she added.

However, Simmonds took part in her first triathlon when she was 10 years old and says that it was “something I was thrown into to keep me entertained”.

Simmonds went on to explain that after a 10-year break, in May 2014 she decided to compete for her university in what she described as her “comeback triathlon”.

“A month later I did a second and qualified for the sprint triathlon World Championships as an agegrouper. It’s safe to say that I haven’t really looked back since!”

In her most recent competition, the IRONMAN 70.3 Thailand 2017 held in Phuket last November, Simmonds picked up her first win as a pro-triathlete after turning pro at the beginning of the year.

On the day of her win, with all

@thephuketnews

Simmonds disembarks from the swim stage of last year’s IRONMAN 70.3 Thailand 2017. Photo: Naratip Golf Srisupab / SEALs Sports the various media interviews she had to endure, it was hard to count how many times she was asked how it felt to win the event, but now nearly two months down the line The Phuket News wanted to know how it felt to win her first race as a pro on home turf, so to speak.

“Just the other day I was looking through some video footage of me crossing the line, and I almost couldn’t believe it was me who was holding up the tape and finishing first.

“It’s t r uly sur real to have finished my first season on the professional circuit on such a high, and has spurred me into 2018 with a huge amount of motivation, but also a clearer idea of what I want to, and can, achieve in the next few years,” she said.

When asked whether she thought

she had a chance to win ahead of the event, Simmonds was pretty modest in her reply.

“I had raced the majority of the girls before, and I knew that to win I was going to have to play my cards right and take a risk at some point, which I did on the bike and it paid off.

“The interesting part of racing as a pro is that there are many more race tactics involved and you are much more aware of where your competitors are. This makes the race a lot more interesting as well as a lot more pressured,” she said.

IRONMAN events are held throughout the year at various venues across the globe, and The Phuket News wanted to know how the IRONMAN course here in Phuket compared to others she had competed on.

“The course was pretty fantastic; a stunning sea-swim, a varied bike course followed by a pretty flat, although steamy hot, run.

“Training from Laguna, I knew the course pretty well so it suited me, but we were lucky with the weather that day as it was very overcast. The week before at the Laguna Phuket Triathlon it was steamy hot and although a shorter race, it was much more draining.”

But could there be any improvements made with the Phuket event when it is held again in November this year?

Simmonds said, “Sure, like everything in life, there are always small changes that can be done to improve a race. Already, there were some pretty big improvements from the inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 in 2016, such as the lights in the transition zone which made it possible to see your bike at 5:30am.

It’s a learning curve for everyone involved.”

So what has Simmonds been doing since she took her first major victory?

“Well, training has well and truly begun after a well needed off-season post 70.3 Phuket. At the moment it’s a lot of logging base miles and putting in some solid weeks of training before getting more race-specific. Training spans 20-25 hours a week on average, which can get pretty intense especially as it starts to get hotter here in Phuket,” Simmonds explained.

And what will be her first event in 2018 and when will she start preparations for that event?

“My first event is likely going to be Liuzhou IRONAN 70.3 in

China mid-April. I managed to keep some of my Chinese from when I was younger, so I really enjoy going back and being able to practice,” she said.

So what preparations will be needed to be ready for that event?

“Currently, it’s more volume work in preparation for the whole of 2018. Closer to the event, from March onwards, there will be more intensity and speed work thrown in, and I’ll most likely do a shorter race in the month leading up to it to ‘sharpen me up’ as it were.”

Now with a full season ahead of her, what does Simmonds hope to achieve in competitions in 2018?

“Honestly, what I achieved in 2017 surpassed all my expectations.

In 2018, I want to continue to move from strength to strength, with the aim to qualify and race at the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships in South Africa in September.”

When asked if there were any person or persons she would like to give a special mention to, Simmons replied, “I’d like to mention Jürgen Zäck, for getting me in shape despite all the hiccups through last year, including a broken collarbone in March. Also to Jaray Jearanai, a top Thai triathlete local to Phuket who I train with on a day-to-day basis and who helps head up ZCoaching.

“But also to all my sponsors for believing in me – White & Wong, Jiakina Customized and Revv Energy Thailand,” she said.

The Phuket News wishes Simmonds the best of luck for the 2018 season and looks forward to seeing her defend her IRONMAN 70.3 Thailand title in November.

30 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

BISP wish Toy good luck at Faldo Series Asia final

T

he BISP community wishes Year 11 student Toy (Napat Paramacharoenroj) the best of luck as he defends his title at the Golf Asia Grand Final Champion of the 12th Faldo Series Asia Grand Final at the Banyan Tree Group’s Laguna Lang Co, in Vietnam between March 1-3 2018.

We are also proud to announce that Toy has been invited to join the ‘Major Champions Invitational’ hosted by Sir Nick Faldo at Bella Collina, Monte Verde from March 10-14 whereby major champions including Henrik Stenson, Ernie Els, Rory McIlroy, Jordan Speith and Annika Sorenstam will hand-pick a team of four junior players (two boys and two girls) to represent them.

Sir Nick Faldo has personally asked for Toy to be on his team, which is a great honour for not only Toy but the BISP Golf program led

by Head Coach Oliver Bates.

BISP’s Athletics Director Jeff La Mantia commented that he is “delighted with this accolade for Toy which is a result of his hard work, focus and dedication over the years.”

The Phuket Vagabonds seen here in action at the 2017 Phuket international Rugby 10s. Photo: Ardmawr Photography

Mr Richards, BISP’s Headmaster added, “I would also l ike to acknowledge the extraordinary work being done by the coaches and ground-staf f at BISP; the unique short game facility at the school meets the highest world standards, and certainly helps in the development of players of the highest quality.”

“Toy is an exceptional young man, and thoroughly deserves the trust that Sir Nick Faldo places in him, but I would also like to congratulate our golf coaches for their wonderful commitment to our young players.”

Good luck Toy over the coming months.

What’s on at the ACG Date

Time

Activity

Sat Jan 27 Sun Jan 28 Wed Jan 31 Fri Feb 2 Sat Feb 3 Sun Feb 4 Wed Feb 7 March 23-26

All day Midday 5pm 5pm All day 10am 5pm All day

BISP Parent’s & Children’s Cricket Local Cricket Friendly Children’s Cricket Coaching Children’s Cricket Coaching Natures playground Super 8’s league 4 teams x 2 matches Children’s Cricket Coaching Last Man Standing Cricket Tournament

Kowloon Rugby Club in Training at the ACG.

They want you

Phuket Vagabonds in recruitment drive RUGBY The Phuket News editor3@thephuketnews.com

T

he defending champions of the Phuket International Rugby 10’s, the Phuket Vagabonds RFC, are looking for players to join their team for the upcoming season.

Having just inked a new annual sponsorship deal with newly launched Balinese rib house, Naughty Nuri’s, their first tournament under the new sponsor will be the Bangkok International Rugby 10’s on February 24 and 25. Training is underway at the HeadStart International School, near Central Festival, every Wednesday from 7pm - 8pm and they are welcoming both experienced

players as well as complete novices to come down and try out.

The Vagabonds team is as much about the social aspect of the game off the pitch as it is about on the field of play, so it’s not just about the silky skills on the field that matter!

The team would not be where it is today without the support of long standing sponsor Athena Siam Ltd and they also welcome as a sponsor for 2018, Chalong Bay – The spirit of Phuket. A huge thanks go to all of their sponsors and especially to club President and Organiser of the Phuket 10s, Pat Cotter, who hung up his rugby boots a few years ago now but continues to lead the team off the field!

On the field, leading the team this year is Team Cap-

tain, Shaun Kober, Head Fitness Coach at Tiger Muay Thai and former member of the Australian Army. He has represented Australia in a Defence Force Rugby World Cup, as well as captaining both the Northern Territory and Tasmanian rugby teams at national and international tournaments.

This year’s Vagabonds team is a melting pot of nationalities made up of South African, English, Thai, Argentinian, Australian, German, Fijian and Papua New Guinean! Go and get involved.

For more information on the team, you can visit their Facebook page www.facebook. com/groups/phuketrugby or contact phuketrugby@ gmail.com

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS

Run #1669: Saturday Jan 27 Run Start Time: 3:30pm Hares: Dr. F***ing Jekyll, F***ing Dr Jekyll, Lesser Dips**t Location: Chao Fa West - Soi Anusorn 200 Pee Directions: Come southbound from Central Festival Phuket for .9 kilometres (1.1km past Honda) then make a U-turn at the Kwang Rd traffic lights. Head north for 180 metres and then turn left HHH into Soi Anusorn.

Continue uphill for about 2km to laager site. Come northbound on Chao Fa West Rd and go 180m past the Kwang Rd intersection traffic lights, turn left into Soi Anusorn and continue as above.

Bus pick-up: Kamala @ Black Cat’s Bar: 1:45pm Patong @ Expat Hotel: 2:15pm More info: phuket-hhh.com

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

SPORT 31

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

All set and ready for WCGC 2018 GOLF

Last year’s event winners Team TFL (Dietmar Bandat and John Siena).

The Phuket News editor3@classactmedia.co.th

L

ast year, 2017, was the World Corporate Golf Challenge (WCGC) Thailand’s inaugural year with over 75 corporate teams participating in the event.

The event culminated with 18 teams battling it out at the Thailand National Final held at the Banyan Golf Club in Hua Hin. The winners would have the honour of representing Thailand at the World Final held in Cascais, Portugal.

Te a m T F L ( D iet m a r Bandat and John Siena) came out victorious with a very respectable score of 68 points, booking their ticket to Portugal for the WCGC World Final, where they finished 4th overall.

Now in its second year, Fore Management Group is delighted to announce Blue Horizon Developments have signed as the Title Sponsor for The Blue Horizon World Corporate Golf Challenge

Thailand 2018.

Chris Watson (Director of Fore Management Group) WCGC Thailand Licence holder commented, “We are delighted to have Blue Horizon, one of Thailand’s premier property developers join as Title Sponsor for WCGC Thailand 2018. We look forward to what will be a great event and wish all competitors the best of luck” Blue Hor izon was established fifteen years ago and has a strong reputation in providing high end quality developments. At Blue Horizon

they pride themselves in transfor ming customers’ visions into a tangible structure that generates new investments and exponential returns to the communities served.

In the last few years they have introduced larger developments, which include both condominium and villa developments.

These developments include; Skylight villas, The Beachfront Condominiums, Signature Villas, Himalai Oceanfront Condominiums and Grand Himalai Oceanfront Condominiums.

To find out more about Blue Horizon Developments visit: bluehorizon-thailand.com The qualifiers will start at the end of February and run through to the end of April, it has now been confirmed that qualifiers will be held on the following dates at the below golf courses: Qualifier 1 – Laguna Golf Phuket on Saturday Feb 10 Qualifier 2 – Thai Country Club on Monday February 19 Qua l i f ier 3 – Pho e n i x (Pattaya) on Thursday March 15 Qualifier 4 - Banyan Golf Club (Hua Hin) on Saturday March 19 Qualifier 5 – Lotus Valley Golf Club (Bangkok) on Sunday March 25 Qualifier 6 – Laguna Golf Phuket on Wednesday April 4 Grand Final – Laguna Golf Phuket on Saturday April 28 To sign up contact the Fore Management Group Team on 095 075 0368 or email events@ foremanagement.com

MAIN SPONSOR

The overall competition winner will receive a 3 day/2 night stay in a Sri Panwa one bedroom luxury private pool villa including daily breakfast plus a 120 minute spa treatment for two persons. Total prize value: B123,000 The monthly competition winner for January 2018 will receive a B3,000 voucher to spend at Angus O’Tool's Karon Beach.

EPL PREDICTIONS MONTHLY STANDINGS

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

POOL LAST THURSDAY (JAN 18) saw all participating teams return to action for the fifth round of the Patong Pool League (PPL), sponsored by Thailand Pool Tables.

Having had to miss the prior week’s action due to their opponents being knocked out with what they said was “Asian flu”, title favourites Natalie Bar last Wednesday (Jan 17) had to play that game in hand against Caddy Shack, and what an epic game it turned out to be.

Caddy Shack were still hampered by absentees due to Asian flu, and to make matters worse, their Captain Justin Morgan was also suffering a red-eye infection but still played but also had to borrow a player from another team to make up his team’s numbers.

In that game’s action, when the score was at 4-5 in Caddy Shack’s favour, Khun Natalie potted a brilliant black in the third game of the beer leg and managed to finish the game with a 6-5 score line in favour of Natalie Bar. @thephuketnews

League Standings

Khun Natalie of Natalie Bar pots the black in the third game of the beer leg.

And the very next day, Natalie Bar had to play again, this time against Red Light Bar. However, that game was a walk in the park for Natalie as they managed to walk away with a terrific 1-10 win taking them back to the top of the league table.

The only point Red Light managed to pick up last Thursday was scored by the lovely lady Moo. At least she wasn’t having an off day like her male teammates.

Another top match in last week’s action was that between Hole in One and Ting Tong.

Surprisingly Ting Tong won with a comfortable margin of 3-8. They have now won four out of five games in this season’s issue of the PPL and are proving they are a team not be underestimated.

Elsewhere, Happy End had a huge of 10-1 win over PPL treasures Simon & Oil, who, whether they win or lose, always show great sportsmanship both in the league in general and to their opponents week in week out.

Meanwhile, Martin Swiss visited Wombat Bar with four family members making up the team. This appeared to bring them good luck as they walked away with a 5-6 win.

Finally, Caddy Shack also played their second match in two days after playing catch up last Wednesday and managed a close 6-5 win over Wet Dreams.

All visitors are welcome to watch the exciting matches of the PPL each and every week at the respective participating bars.

Matt Pond

OVERALL STANDINGS

poonchai 20 AOR 19 Griffsbar 19 celticpride 18 malcmanning 18

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

thailand express 135 TC 132 adamrosindale 130 malcmanning 130 scottkip 130

English Premier League 2017 - 2018 Team

MP

W

D

L

F

A

GD

Pts

1

Manchester City

24

21

2

1

70

18

+52

65

2

Manchester United

24

16

5

3

49

16

+33

53

3

Chelsea

24

15

5

4

45

16

+29

50

4

Liverpool

24

13

8

3

54

29

+25

47

5

Tottenham Hotspur

24

13

6

5

47

22

+25

45

6

Arsenal

24

12

6

6

45

31

+14

42

7

Leicester City

24

9

7

8

36

32

+4

34

8

Burnley

24

9

7

8

19

21

-2

34

9

Everton

24

7

7

10

26

39

-13

28

10

Watford

24

7

5

12

33

44

-11

26

11

West Ham United

24

6

8

10

30

42

-12

26

12

Bournemouth

24

6

7

11

25

36

-11

25

13

Crystal Palace

24

6

7

11

22

37

-15

25

14

Huddersfield Town

24

6

6

12

19

41

-22

24

15

Newcastle United

24

6

5

13

22

34

-12

23

16

Brighton

24

5

8

11

17

33

-16

23 23

17

Stoke City

24

6

5

13

25

50

-25

18

Southampton

24

4

10

10

24

35

-11

22

19

West Brom

24

3

11

10

19

31

-12

20

20

Swansea City

24

5

5

14

15

35

-20

20

Live Sports TV Schedule *Times may be subject to change

SPORT

Natalie Bar win big to go back top of PPL

MONTHLY SPONSOR

START STOP

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

Saturday January 26 Tennis Cricket

12:00

15:00

Aussie Open

Women’s Doubles Final

15:30

19:30

Aussie Open

Men’s Singles Semi-Finals

10:20

18:30

ODI4 - Adelaide

Australia v England

18:30

23:00

Test 3 - Johannesburg

South Africa v. India, Day 3

Saturday January 27

Natalie

37

22:45

French Top 14

Toulon v Bordeaux

Happy End

32

Soccer

19:30

21:30

FA Cup – Rnd 4

Peterborough v. Leicester

Ting Tong

31

Soccer

00:30

02:30

FA Cup – Rnd 4

Newport v. Tottenham

Caddy Shack

30

Cricket

15:00

23:00

Test 3 - Johannesburg

South Africa v. India, Day 4

Hole in One

30

Tennis

15:30

17:00

Aussie Open

Ladies Final

17:00

19:00

Aussie Open

Men’s Doubles Final

Martin Swiss

27

Wet Dreams

27

12:00

14:00

Aussie Open

Mixed Doubles Final

15:30

19:00

Aussie Open

Men’s Final

23:00

01:00

FA Cup – Rnd 4

Cardiff v. Man City

10:20

18:30

ODI5 - Perth

Australia v England

18:30

23:00

Test 3 - Johannesburg

South Africa v. India, Day 5

Wombat

27

Red Light

22

Simon Oil

12

Rugby Union 20:45

Sunday January 28 Tennis Soccer Cricket

Sport editor3@classactmedia.co.th

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018

Phuket Vagabonds in recruitment drive for BKK 10s > p30

REPRESENTING SWITZERLAND

Phuket-based Imogen Simmonds leads the female triathlon pack EXCLUSIVE Matt Pond editor3@classactmedia.co.th

B

orn in Hong Kong, where she spent the first nine years of h e r l i fe , 2 4 -ye a r- old Imogen Simmonds is a professional triathlete, who due to her upbringing in Switzerland chooses to race under the Swiss flag.

She first came to Phuket on a family

holiday for Christmas in 2014 where she was lucky enough to meet her current coach Jürgen Zäck.

Not long after that first meeting, Zäck formed the Z-Coaching training squad which is based at the Laguna resort complex. After obtaining her Master’s in Environmental Technology and Business in October 2015, Simmonds decided to come back to Phuket and train full-time with Z-Coaching rather than pursuing a desk-bound career…

Continued page 29

Simmonds crosses the line to take her first pro title at the IRONMAN 70.3 Thailand 2017 held in Phuket last November. Photo: Naratip Golf Srisupab / SEALs Sports Images

thephuketnews