30-12-2016

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

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TSUNAMI VICTIMS REMEMBERED > PAGE 7

SOBERING DRIVE

NEWS

PAGE 3

Patong’s sand loungers cleared

LIFE

PAGE 19

Get ready for some Kazakh rockstars A Kathu Traffic Police officer at a checkpoint with a camera fitted to his helmet, the new standard issue to ensure police have evidence to press charges. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot

POLICE TO SEIZE DRUNK DRIVERS’ VEHICLES, LICENCES IN NEW YEAR ROAD-SAFETY CAMPAIGN Yutthawat Lekmak reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

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olice in Phuket will seize driver’s licences and vehicles of people caught drunk driving during the ongoing Seven Days of Danger road-safety campaign over the New Year holidays – and will not release them until the campaign is over.

The strict measure is aimed at deterring people from drunk driving

as a way of reducing the number of road deaths and injuries during the busy period, Phuket City Police Chief Col Kamol Osiri confirmed to The Phuket News.

The ramped up enforcement follows Phuket Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan earlier this month announcing a “Drink Don’t Drive” campaign to be rolled out across the island during the festive season.

The announcement came from Governor Chockchai during a meet-

ing held with relevant officials at Provincial Hall to brainstorm strategies as to how to reduce the number of deaths caused by accidents on Phuket roads to less than 50 deaths per year by 2017.

At that same meeting, Dr Wiwat Seetamanotch, southern region consultant for the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, revealed that the number of accidents resulting in death on the island’s roads numbered 144 from January 1-October 31.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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“Phuket has had 144 death within 10 months, about 84 per cent of those were males. Around 80% of vehicle accidents involved motorbikes, and around 80% of motorcyclist killed were not wearing a helmet,” Dr Wiwat said.

The Seven Days of Danger roadsafety campaign for the New Year 2017 holidays began at midnight as Thursday (Dec 29) began and will end at midnight at the close of Jan 4.

“Officers will be posted at many police checkpoints across the island...

SPORT

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Sydney-Hobart record crushed

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Prayers, no fireworks to usher in New Year THE GOVERNMENT HAS promised the New Year countdown will be “historic” in that the celebrations will mark a departure from the traditional boisterous revelry.

The celebrations, in line with the mourning period of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, will see a nationwide mass candle vigil and a prayer to usher in 2017.

Events will start at 9pm on Dec 31 at key venues across the country.

The night’s highlight will be the “Candlelight of Siam” event, said Deputy Prime Minister Gen Tanasak Patimapragorn.

Sanam Luang in the capital will be centre stage for the activities, with 100,000 candles to be handed out to participants. Other celebration areas include key locations in the provinces, Tourism and Sports Minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul said.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

Governor gets on board light-rail options with China visit > page 6

Sect retreat raided

Dhammakaya centre under fire off Phuket Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

A rooster highlights the Christmas-New Year signs in front of a building. Photo: Wichan Charoenkiatpakul At Sanam Luang in Bangkok, people will be asked to observe 89 seconds of silence, signifying the age of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

At the stroke of midnight, a gong will be sounded nine times to mark the New Year, after which everyone present at the event will pray and sing Phorn Pi Mai (blessing for the New Year), which was composed by the late King, and the royal anthem.

Candles will be lit at 0.09am on Jan 1, Gen Tanasak said.

Bangkok Post

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fficials from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) last week seized 37 kilograms of dead corals from the “Muktawan 1” meditation facility on Koh Yao Noi, off the east coast of Phuket.

Suchart Rattanariangsri, Director of the DMCR’s Marine Resource Conservation Division at the Sixth Marine Coastal Resources Administration Office, along with officers from the Koh Yao Noi Police seized the corals during an inspection of the site on Dec 21.

The officers found various pieces of dead coral piled up to prevent soil erosion in the area, and some pieces of dead coral were used as a top dressing for trees in the area and

The Muktawan 1 meditation facility on Koh Yao Noi is being investigated for dead corals, nominee land claims. to decorate buildings.

“There were more pieces of dead coral that could not be seized as they were either mixed in with soil under trees or set in cement in buildings,” Mr Suchart said.

“We have collected the dead coral as evidence of contravention of the Wild Animal Reservation and Protection

Act B.E. 2535 (1992) and the owner of the property will face legal action.”

Contravention of the act can result in a fine of not more than B40,000, or a prison term of not more than four years, or both.

Joining the inspection was Deputy National Police Chief Gen Srivara Ransi-

brahmanakul, who alleged that the owners of the facility, the besieged Dhammakaya Foundation in Bangkok, used a nominee to occupy some of the land plots where its three meditation facilities on Koh Yao Noi are located, and some of which he alleged encroached on protected forest land.

Speaking after inspecting the 137-rai site, Gen Srivara said that Pet Kansap, 54, from Loei occupied four land plots there. Mr Pet was assigned by the Dhammakaya Foundation to hold the land plots and is also linked with forest encroachment by the temple’s meditation facility in Loei, Gen Srivara said.

Officials will also examine whether 18 buildings – and any permits issued – at the site were built legally, he said.

Additional reporting by the Bangkok Post.

New Year road-safety blitz to reduce deaths Continued from page 1 ...to help prevent traffic jams, to provide assistance and safety for travellers during the New Year holidays,” Col Kamol said.

“During this period, we will have local rescue workers Drivers of large vehicles as well as local administra- will also be targeted. Photo: tive authorities in each area Tanyaluk Sakoot to help us provide maximum safety for all,” he said.

“The owner or represenDrunk drivers will spe- tative of the rental-vehicle cifically be targeted, Col company must come to colKamol noted. lect it after the Seven Days “During the campaign, are over. However, the owner we will seize the driving or representative must bring licence and vehicle of any the rental agreement that the people caught drunk driving. foreigner signed in order to Both will be kept at the police claim the vehicle back,” he station until the Seven Days warned.

During the campaign, campaign is over,” he said.

“We will also seize rental traffic police officers on patrol vehicles of foreigners caught and at checkpoints will have drunk driving,” he said. cameras fitted to their hel-

mets as newly-issued equipment. “This is to ensure that we have the evidence needed to press charges,” explained Lt Ittikorn Sreenun, Deputy Inspector of Traffic police at Kathu Police Station.

Harsher penalties for drunk driving were introduced last year. Under the new laws, the BAC (bloodalcohol concentration) limit for professional and commercial drivers, and drivers under 24 years old, remains zero, and the legal BAC limit for all other drivers is 0.05%.

The penalties for drunk driving are: • Drunk driving: Up to one year imprisonment or a fine of B5,000 to B20,000 or both, and driver’s licence suspended for six months.

• Drunk driving caus-

ing bodily or mental harm to others: One to five years imprisonment or a fine of B20,000 to B100,000 or both, and driver’s licence suspended for up to one year.

• Drunk driving causing serious injury to others: Two to six years imprisonment or a fine of B40,000 to B120,000 or both, and driver’s licence suspended for up to two years.

• Drunk driving causing death: Three to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of B60,000 to B200,000 and your driver’s licence will be cancelled. Whether you will be allowed to apply for a driver’s licence again during your lifetime is up to the court.

Additional reporting by Tanyaluk Sakoot

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

PHUKET NEWS

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rentals Patong ‘sand lounges’ Short-term warned to register sunk by Navy command Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

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he entrepreneurial sun loungers sculpted from sand on Patong Beach have been levelled after the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) ordered them removed amid a flurry of support from tourists visiting the island during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

RTN Third Area Deputy Commander Vice Admiral Pisai Sookwan, based in Phuket, ordered the removal of sun lounges, made from mounds of sand with canvas mats on top, from Patong Beach on Dec 23.

The thorny issue of local vendors using Patong Beach recently returned to the media spotlight after photos of the sand sun lounges were posted on social media, with much support for the inventiveness of the Thai vendors.

V/Adm Pisai said that sand sun lounges breached the rules of the legal “10% beach zone and ordered them to be removed.

Royal Thai Navy V/Adm Pisai Sookwan said that the ‘sand sun lounges’ breached the rules of the legal ‘10% beach zone’ and ordered vendors to remove them.

“This high season more tourists and more vendors are doing the sand sun loungers and I am afraid that this issue might expand in a bigger area as other vendors copy this method,” he said.

“Vendors have adapted this method as a way to circumvent the rules of the legal 10% beach zones,” he added.

Patong Mayor Chalermluk Kebsup said she does not support the operators of the sand sun lounges and said they began to appear after the 2014 crackdown on unsightly beach

vendors and sun beds – which had taken over large swathes of popular tourist beaches in Phuket.

In the wake of the Armyled beach vendor crackdown, a local law was passed that allowed 10% of each beach to be used for commercial purposes.

Phuket Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan noted that the Patong “sand loungers” were in the legal 10% zone, but that the vendors had used the sand mounds only as a way to avoid the restrictions on

Killer visa run driver fined B150k THE VISA RUN VAN DRIver who slid off the road and crashed into a house in Phang Nga last week, killing three of his passengers, has been found charged with reckless driving causing death and fined B150,000, Phang Nga City Police Chief Col Suwat Kaewprom has confirmed.

The van driver, Prawit Raweewat, suffered minor injuries in the crash.

“He has been charged and paid a fine of B150,000.

However, officers are still investigating whether the vehicle was registered to be used as public transport or not. If the van was being operated under the wrong category then Prawit’s licence might be suspended or revoked, but this will be up to the court to decide,” Col Suwat told The Phuket News last Thursday (Dec 22).

Chief Col Suwat added that the vehicle’s insurance company will take care of all expenses for the victims resulting from the accident.

“I was told that the insurance is first class, but it has not yet been confirmed how much each victim will be compensated,” he said.

Police named the deceased from the crash as Mr Ste@thephuketnews

A tow truck removes the crumpled KBV Visa Run vehicle from the scene of the accident. Photo: Phang Nga Rescue phane Sebastien Jean Peal, 46, French; Mr Patrick Andre Pessey (age not confirmed), French; and Miss Jessica Paller, 40, Filipina.

T he i nju red foreig ners who remain in hospital were named by police as: Ms Ageenko Nadezhda, 32, Russian (in ICU at Phang Nga Hospital); Mr Wennie Cajeras, 47, Filipino (in Phang Nga Hospital); Mr Anam Wicaksona, 43, Indonesian; Ms Baumgartner Verena, 38, Austrian; Mr John Gary Olive, 48, British; Miss Taresita Padewel, 53, Filipina (all in Vachira Phuket Hospital).

Mr Cajeras was in a critical condition and was to be transferred to Vachira Phuket

Hospital.

Phang Nga Gover nor Phakpong Taweewat ordered every department involved to follow the progress of the accident investigation, to take care of the injured victims, and to help contact related embassies.

“Many factors are to blame for this unfortunate accident including weather conditions, the road condition, a dangerous bend and way the van was being driven,” he said.

All the foreign passengers were heading to the Malaysian border in Satun to obtain new permits-to-stay in order to remain in the country.

Eakkapop Thongtub

wooden or plastic sun lounges.

“Building sand up doesn’t affect the environment, but it needs to be cleared every day. Vendors create sand sun loungers to service the demand from their their customers,” he said.

“We will listen to every complaint or request from beach vendors, but we need to discuss the issue in more detail,” Gov Chockchai added.

He added that a meeting will be held in mid-January to further discuss the issue with beach vendors.

PH U K ET G OV E R NOR Chockchai Dejamornthan has reiterated his warning to operators illegally providing accommodation to tenants for periods of 30 days or less to register by January 31 or face legal action.

The warning came in an official notice issued by the Phuket Provincial Office last Friday (Dec 23).

Gov Chockchai noted that so far 300 illegal operators had registered since the January 31 deadline was handed down earlier this month.

However, he also pointed out that a provincial investigative committee had identified a total of 1,366 venues illegally providing short-term rentals.

The same committee noted that only 424 hotels on the island were operating legally, he added.

“All illegal accommodations must be registered by January 31, 2017 and begin renovations so their properties can be legally registered in accordance with the the Hotel Act of 2004,” Gov Chockchai said.

“If any of them don’t follow the provincial notice within the deadline, they will

Phuket Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan warned illegal hotels ro register by January 31, or face legal action.

Photo: PR Dept face legal action,” he warned.

The deadline to register properties as hotels follows the Ministry of Interior on August 19 issuing a new regulation to make it easier for more property owners to obtain a hotel license.

The regulation – called the Ministerial Regulation Prescribing Descriptions of Other Types of Building Used for a Hotel Business Operation 2016 under the Building Control Act (1979) – will remain in effect for five years.

However, it applies only to buildings that existed before it came into force and whose owners desire to use the property as “Hotel” as defined by the Hotel Act. The Phuket News

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Navy targets IUU trawlers in hopes of restoring EU trade A crane lifts the pickup truck out of the canal.

Driver cites wet road in canal plunge A 14-Y EA R-OLD GI R L suffered minor injuries when the pickup truck she was travelling in plunged into a canal in Koh Kaew last Saturday night (Dec 24).

The driver and two other passengers walked away from the accident without injury.

Rescue workers notified police of the accident, on the Bangku–Nanai Rd which runs behind Land and House, Koh Kaew, at 8pm.

The pickup driver, named by police only as “Ponthida”, told police that she was driving to Thalang and wanted to took the back road to avoid traffic in Koh Keaw.

She said she drove around a badly lit bend, lost control and crashed into the canal.

Police have yet to press charges.

Eakkapop Thongtub

The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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he Royal Thai Navy base i n Phu ket is seeking to improve measures to tackle illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in attempt to have the “yellow card” issued by the European Union (EU) dropped by April 2017.

The EU issued a yellow card to Thailand in April 2015, warning the country should clean up its poorly regulated fishing industry or face a ban on seafood exports.

The ban came after reports of modern slavery and migrant worker abuse within the Thai fishing and seafood processing industries made international headlines. In response, Thailand cracked down on enforcing its fishing regulations.

Vice Admiral Surapol Kuptaphan of the Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command, who is also chief of Third Area Thailand Maritime Enforcement Coordinating Centre (Thai-Mecc), revealed that following a recent meeting

V/Adm Surapol Kuptaphan of the Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command in Phuket. Photo: PR Dept the Royal Thai Navy learned that the country’s strategy to prevent and tackle IUU fishing has lacked reporting and control.

“Our investigation showed that so far 90% of fishing boats and fishing industry operators in the system are following the laws. However, action must be taken against that 10% still operating outside of the law so that we are guaranteed that the EU will drop the yellow card

by April next year,” V/Adm Surapol said.

“With regards to Vessel

Monitoring Systems (VMS) installed on fishing vessels, we have found that some fishing boats turn off the systems when they arrive in certain areas, therefore we need to step up measures to prevent this from happening,” he added.

V/Adm Surapol went onto say that at present their have been no reports of Rohingya migration via Thai waters but that it is still a possible that some Rohingya might attempt to come to Thailand so more officials and patrolling vessels will monitor the situation.

“We have received no recent reports of attempted human trafficking along the Andaman coast, and we are constantly carrying out antihuman trafficking measures especially against Rohingya.

“If we don’t have middlemen or employment agencies bringing in illegal migrants and providing them with shelter, we will not have to deal with this issue,” he said.

“Besides, most Rohingya want to go to other countries rather than work in Thailand,” he added.

The leopard cat was rescued from a dog attack. Photo: Jindarat Radchawongsa PR MANAGER Natchaya (Nat) Sittiprasert 088 765 5881 pr@classactmedia.co.th

Leopard cat saved, freed WILDLIFE OFFICIALS released a leopard cat into the wild near Bang Pae Waterfall in central Phuket last week after the feline was rescued from a dog attack in Kathu on Nov 30.

“The leopard cat had suffered injuries around its rear legs and tail, and we had to make sure the cat was strong enough to survive on its own before we released it back into the wild,” explained Piyawat Sukont, Chief of the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Non-Hunting Area in Thalang..

– Nattarika Akekeaw and Mukdawan Janyaporn thephuketnews

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PHUKET NEWS

Building materials spilled onto the road, blocking traffic for about three hours.

18-wheeler jackknifes in wet slide

THE PASSENGER IN THE cab of an 18-wheeled truck was seriously injured when the driver lost control on a bend on Thepkrasattri Rd on Monday evening (Dec 26).

The incident, at about at 7:20pm, also caused traffic delays as the load fell off the back of the truck and covered a large section of the road on the southbound lanes at Baan Suan Maprao.

The driver of the Krabiregistered truck, Sanon Nijjamroon, 37, suffered minor injuries in the accident, but his passenger, Suwannee Chiamwichit, 42, suffered serious injuries to her left arm and right leg.

Police are still investigating the incident to determine whether to press any charges.

Eakkapop Thongtub

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

China visit shines light on Phuket’s light-rail options Yutthawat Lekmak reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

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four-day fact-finding mission to China to inspect light-rail cars by Phuket Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan and an entourage of officials and media has provided a glimpse into what Phuket’s long awaited light-rail system might look like.

During his tour, from Dec 18-22, Governor Chockchai visited the manufacturing plant of rolling-stock giant CRRC Company in Changsha, the capital of central China’s Hunan province.

The company has also built a reputation for worldclass mass-transport systems.

As recently as Nov 28, the company announced that it had been selected to deliver High Capacity Metro Trains (HCMT) in a public-private partnership (PPP) for Melbourne, Australia, worth AU$2 billion (B51.673bn).

In March this year, CRRC also secured a US$1.3 billion (B46.839bn) deal to provide

Governor Chockchai inspected battery-powered light-rail cars that he said he would recommend the Transport Ministry use in Phuket. Photo: PR Dept rail cars to Chicago.

Top choice for Gov Chockchai from the factory floor were the electric-battery powered trams.

“This form of light-rail means no overhead power cables are necessary, which

will make our light-rail safer,” the Governor told The Phuket News this week.

“Also, these trams have a quick recharge time, which means they can begin moving again without long delays,” he added.

Gov Chockchai declined to reveal any further details about his trip to China, but promised to put forward his suggestions to the steering committee overseeing the Phuket light-rail project.

“We exchanged ideas about Phuket transportation, and Phuket will definitely have light-rail in the future,” Governor Chockchai said.

“And the light-rail systems used in China should be the model in Phuket.

“Phuket has some serious traffic congestion, and the island will be better off using public transportation such as light-rail or electric trains,” he added.

Governor Chockchai said he expected further studies to take at least two more months before the Phuket light-rail plan is finalised, including the final budget allocated for construction.

However, the Ministry of Transport in its national “Transport Infrastructure Investment Plan 2017” issued on Dec 13 reported that the Phuket mass-transit project

was still listed under “Policy driven projects” – the lowest listed stage of development for any transport infrastructure project.

In July, then-Governor of Phuket Chamroen Tipayapongtada said he had high hopes for construction of Phuket’s light-rail system to begin next year.

OTP Deputy Director Chaiwat Tongkamkoon in November last year announced that the planned light-rail will start at Tha Noon in Phang Nga, on the north side of the bridges from Phuket to the mainland, and terminate just north of Chalong Circle, passing through Phuket Town and 23 stations en route and covering a total distance of 60 kilometres.

At that time OTP Deputy Director Chaiwat announced the projected budget was B23.5bn.

A release issued by the Phuket PR Dept last week also reporting Gov Chockchai’s visit to China noted the project value was now B30bn (US$832 million).

Man caught with meth haul bound for bus station A POLICEMAN ON PAtrol randomly inspected a man heading toward Phuket’s main bus station on Thepkrasattri Rd last Saturday morning (Dec 24) and found him possession of nearly 2,000 methamphetamine (ya bah) pills.

“I was driving past the Super Cheap store at about 6:50am when I saw a man with a backpack acting suspiciously,” reported Lt Preechapat Sungnoi of Phuket City Police.

Lt Preechapat stopped and searched the man, later identified as 23-year-old Sarawut Koraneesak.

He then searched Sarawut’s bag and found in 10 packages marked with the iconic Apple computer trademark.

“I opened one of the packets and found it contained 200 orange pills marked ‘WY’,” Lt Preechapat said.

Seven of the other packages were found to contain 198 pills each, and the remaining two packages were

Most of the methamphetamine pills were hidden in packets bearing the iconic Apple computer logo. each found to contain 197 pills, bringing the total number of pills seized to 1,980.

Saraw ut has been charged with possession of a Category 1 drug with intent to sell.

“During questioning,

he told us that he was hired only to deliver the bag to the bus terminal, that’s all,” Lt Preechapat said.

“We are still investigating other details involved in this case,” he added.

Eakkapop Thongtub thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

Burning memories

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Tsunami memorial lights up Patong Beach Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

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undreds of people turned out at the annual Light Up Phuket tsunami memorial event at Loma Park, Patong Beach, on Monday night (Dec 26) to place candles in the sand to remember the thousands who lost their lives to the Asian Tsunami 12 years ago.

The event began at 4pm and concluded at midnight, with multi-faith ceremonies taking place from 6pm.

The event included displays explaining the devastating impact of the tsunami, which according to official statistics killed more than 5,000 people in Thailand, and an estimated 250,000 to 300,000 around the Indian Ocean rim.

Patong Mayor Chalermluck Kebsup, Kathu District Chief Sayan Chanachaiwong and Phuket Vice Governor Snith Sriwihok led the candle-lighting ceremony, with hundreds of people joining in to place their candles in their sand.

“Today marks 12 years since the tsunami and this

Children and a prison guard wait at the gate for the inmates to walk beyond the walls to freedom.

Prisoners pardoned in time for Christmas

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Hundreds of people joined the annual Light Up Phuket tsunami memorial event at Loma Park, Patong Beach, on Monday to remember those who lost their lives in the disaster. event is to remember the victims of this disaster,” Vice Governor Snith said.

“Everyone has learned from this lesson, and people now realise what tragedies they may face and that they must be as ready possible for such situations in the future,” he said.

Earlier Monday morning, Acting Thalang District Chief Wikom Jakthi led proceedings at the Tsunami Memorial Wall

near Mai Khao Beach.

After Buddhist, Muslim and Christian prayers for those lost to the waves that devastated Phuket, Mr Wikom led the small crowd in hanging wreaths along the Wall of Remembrance.

Memorial services were held in Phuket and elsewhere along the Andaman coast on Monday to remember those lost in the disaster.

In Phang Nga, services

Macaque tranquilized after running wild in Phuket Town A WILD LONG-TAILED macaque had to be shot with a tranquilizer after running wild in Phuket Town on Tuesday (Dec 27).

Pongchart Chaerhom, Director of the Khao Phra Thaeo Non-Hunting Area Office, together with officials from the Phuket Provincial Livestock Office (PPLO) and Kusoldharm rescue workers joined forces to catch the macaque about midday Tuesday after being informed by officers

@thephuketnews

The long-tailed macaque was reported to be running wild at Phuket Provincial Hall. from Phuket Provincial Hall that it was running wild at the complex.

After deciding on the best method to capture the wild animal, an officer from the PPLO shot it with a tranquilizer while it was resting on a tree.

Once asleep and safely removed from the tree.

The macaque was taken to the Khao Phra Thaew NonHunting Area in Thalang to recover, and later will be transferred to a wildlife nursing facility in Phang Nga. Eakkapop Thongtub

were held at the Tor 813 patrol boat memorial near Khao Lak, where the waves dumped the boat nearly one kilometre inland.

“I cannot put into words how difficult it must be for the families of the those who died in the disaster, the pain they have gone through, but I want to encourage them as life must go on and they must be strong,” Phang Nga Governor Paksapong Thawiphat said.

huket Prison released 174 prisoners for good behaviour on Christmas morning (Dec 25) under a royal pardon gifted by HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun.

The 130 male and 17 female prisoners released were welcomed by hundreds of friends and family members waiting outside the prison gate, Prison Director Somkid Khamang explained.

“They embraced each other and wept with joy,” he added.

The mass release of the inmates was a gift from HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn after he ascended the throne in November, Chief Somkid noted.

He also pointed out that the the inmates released were

light offenders only. “All the prisoners released were handed down sentences of no more than one third of the maximum penalty, he said.

“And nearly all them were serving short sentences for drugs, light criminal offences, sex offences and theft,” Chief Somkid added.

However, none of those released from Phuket Prison were foreigners, he noted.

Around 100,000 prisoners nationwide qualified for the royal pardon, as announced on Dec 11, with 30,000 likely to be released. The other 70,000 will see their sentences reduced.

Meanwhile, there are 1,590 inmates still incarcerated at the prison, Chief Somkid noted.

Eakkapop Thongtub

Opinion 8

OPINION

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

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CHRIS HUSTED

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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.

MATTHEW POND

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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

Where is the justice?

he fatal accident involving a mini-van f rom K BV Phuket Visa Run, which resulted in the death of three of its passengers on December 21, came as little surprise to those that have lived on the island for some period of time.

Those who have lived here long enough are fully aware of the reputation of KBV’s drivers, and comments made on both The Phuket News website and Facebook page in relation to this news story should make the owner of KBV Visa Run and government officials fully aware of the reputation they do have, which, being frank, is diabolical.

But what did come as a surprise was that following the accident the driver of the van was charged with reckless driving causing death

and injury and fined a measly sum of B150,000 for causing the death of those three passengers – or perhaps we should say “manslaughter” of those three passengers.

That same driver may well have been behind the wheel of another KBV Visa Run vehicle the very next day after he, or someone on his behalf, paid the fine.

Who knows?

That penalty, if you can really call it that, makes it clear that any road accident that results in the death of a passenger, be they foreign or Thai, means very little according to Thai law. In this case each death was worth just B50,000.

Now let’s step over to the UK and look at a road accident that happened there in May 2014.

The driver of a bus was taking a group of 50 pen-

sioner day trippers on a day out when he lost control on the bend of a steep hill.

That accident resulted in the deaths, or should we say the manslaughter, of two of his passengers.

T h is d r iver was also charged and found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving. But the big difference here is that on August 22 this year the driver was sentenced to five years in prison.

It may have taken some 27 months for this case to be settled in court, but at least, according to one of the deceased person’s relatives, justice was served.

So a jail term of five years for causing two deaths by reckless driving compared to B150,000 for causing three deaths by reckless driving, is there really any justice in that?

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Phuket visa run van wipeout: 3 dead, 7 injured Patong Mayor powerless over Phuket’s sand sun loungers Navy orders Patong Beach sun lounges to be removed Killer Phuket visa run driver charged with reckless driving, fined B150,000 Services for long-term Phuket expat Michael Stapleton Phuket Opinion: Avoiding the Christmas bash Police ID foreigner found dead off Pattaya One dead following headon collision in Phuket Phuket police to seize drunk drivers’ vehicles, licences over New Year Governor repeats warning to illegal hotels: register, or face legal action

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

HAVE YOUR SAY Cleanliness should be its own reward

Re: Big clean for Phuket bridge ahead of New Year Wouldn’t it be nice if things could be cleaned and maintained without it having to be a merit-making public relations exercise. I mean exactly how much money do you think the municipal authority budgeted for up-keep when they built the bridge? None of course.

That’s why none of the lighting works and large sections of the curb are starting to collapse into the channel. It’s good that someones’s noticed though.

Captain Jack 69 ...................................................

Act, don’t warn

Re: Phuket Governor repeats warning to illegal hotels: register, or face legal action Warning is not acting, that’s another thing. Let’s see what he manage to achieve, but the initiative is great.

Eric Dekegel ...................................................

Tax audits with a crackdown on Thai nominees as Thai directors, Thai shareholders and fictitious Thai staff may help faster than we may think

to bring those tax evaders and cheaters to obey the law or be out of business in the tourism industry.

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

Natural solution

Re: Navy orders Patong Beach sun lounges to be removed I have said many times before, plant trees along the shoreline and have the lounging area in the shade, keeping the main sand beach looking free of any loungers and umbrellas.

LES ..................................................

A dog’s breakfast

Re: Policeman ‘shot dogs to protect his wife’ No matter what laws or what outcry, these stray dogs are a menace. Not just in Phuket but in the whole of Thailand.

I witnessed a tourist being attacked and badly bitten by four such dogs in a Soi in Pratunam, Bangkok, a few years ago. They become very territorial. Luckily nearby stall owners ran to her assistance and one of them was also bitten on his leg.

They could easily kill somebody and especially a

child. What about rabies?

Something must be done by the authorities about these packs of dogs. No excuses government and TAT. Yvonne ...................................................

Culture shock

Re: Killer Phuket visa run driver charged with reckless driving, fined B150,000 Posters here [on the PN website] seem shocked to have discovered they are living in a still-developing country; one whose insurance laws, trafficfatality rates, law-enforcement practices and legal system are not the same as their own.

Ematt ...................................................

Risky business

Re: Phuket visa run van wipeout: 3 dead, 7 injured In the past I have had to do many visa runs, and used many different companies. I have on occasions called the company whilst on a run, and complained that the driver was texting and making calls while driving.

The driver then asked who had complained. I owned up and said if you want to die, that’s up to you but we the

passengers don’t. Safer way to do it is to advertise and get people together and rent a vehicle, which would be cheaper and put these companies out of business.

Doneit ...................................................

Used KBV many times, but, they’re all the same. Every time, we came close to having a wreck at speed. I constantly told the driver to slow down, as well as telling the shop manager that he was a reckless driver. Nothing done since. It all comes down to the legal entities enforcing safety rules, which they refuse to do.

Foot ...................................................

It is so ridiculous. Those visa run drivers love to race each other at extremely high speeds. I went on one, about four or five years ago and had to “yell” at the laughing driver and Thai coordinator.

I forced them to stop and demanded my money be refunded. I did not get my money back, but I have and never will be a passenger in one of those obvious death traps. Someone should be held responsible.

Tony The Tiger

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10 THAILAND NEWS

Police ID foreigner found dead off Pattaya PATTAYA PATTAYA POLICE LAST week identified the foreigner whose body was found tied to a concrete pile in the waters off Koh Larn on December 16 as a 52-year-old American national.

After six days of a joint investigation by officers from Muang Pattaya Police Station, Chon Buri Provincial Police and Tourist Police, the officers believe the dead man is Frank Thomas who arrived in Thailand in 2013 on a tourist visa which he had continually been renewed.

Muang Pattaya Police Chief Col Apichai Krobpetch said investigators were still working on two theories: murder and suicide committed by a special method.

On Dec 14, Mr Thomas visited Koh Larn where he went diving and catching fish with a spear gun. His body was found in the sea near Samae beach two days later.

Col Apichai said Mr Thomas had a Thai wife but was not with her when he went to Koh Larn.

Police were collecting more information about him and

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

Hemp cultivation for medicinal purposes BANGKOK Bangkok Post editor3@classactmedia.co.th

T The man found dead off Koh Larnk has been identified as Frank Thomas. Photo: Screengrab Pattaya Police trying to contact his wife for an interview to find more clues in the case.

Mr Thomas’s body was found about 200 metres off Samae Beach on the popular tourist island at 2:30pm on Dec 16. He was wearing a Mares brand wetsuit and flippers and had around B1,500 in cash on his body. His throat had been cut. When rescue workers brought his body onto a boat, they found he was wearing a black Samsonite bag which was tied by a nylon rope to a concrete pile to which buoys are attached.

Bangkok Post

he cabinet has approved a proposal to allow hemp, known as ganjong in Thai, to be grown as a cash crop in six selected northern provinces, as part of a project to use narcotic plants for medical purposes, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) revealed on Tuesday (Dec 27).

ONCB Secretary-General Sirinya Sitdhichai said the proposal will be implemented in the coming year in 15 districts in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Nan, Tak, Phetchabun and Mae Hong Son. However, the species of hemp plant being grown must not contain more than 1 per cent of the psychoactive component tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), he said.

THC is the major psychoactive component of marijuana enjoyed by recreational users.

If growers are found with plants with THC levels exceed-

Hemp or cannabis sativa is similar to marijuana but has been bred for non-recreational purposes, and contains little or no THC. Photo: Creative Commons via Bangkok Post ing 1%, they could face legal action, warned the ONCB chief.

The government initiative is part of a policy to relax the laws on narcotics so that three types of plants and methamphetamine can be used for medical purposes, he said.

The other two plants are marijuana and kratom, Mr Sirinya said.

The tropical kratom tree is found across Thailand and Malaysia and is a member of the coffee family of trees. The leaves of the tree are a mild stimulant, and were traditionally chewed by farmers and labourers in need of a boost or some light pain relief.

A study is under way to determine whether kratom has enough good properties for it to be classed as a

herbal medicine that can be administered at home, he said.

A similar study is also being conducted on marijuana, he said, adding that a sub-committee analysing laws regulating methamphetamine is responsible for this study. It is not known when the studies will be complete.

Permanent secretary for justice Charnchao Chaiyanukij, who serves as the chairman of the sub-committee, said the study on marijuana followed warnings by several doctors over the dangers of synthesised marijuana derivatives.

Aside from its medicinal properties, hemp can be turned into various type of handicrafts such as purses using the plant’s stalk, he said.

Authorised tobacco factories plan to buy grown hemp directly from growers, he added.

The proposal to move methamphetamine from a Type 1 narcotic to Type 2 is to allow the substance to be used in studies on its medicinal potential.

Foreigners arrested, coke, crystal meth, ecstasy seized BANGKOK TWO FOREIGN NATIonals were arrested after 4 kilograms of cocaine were found in their bags when they arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport from Africa and a third, their alleged contact, was later apprehended at a Bangkok hotel.

Maj Gen Sommai Kongwisaisuk, acting commissioner of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau, said Johnny Halop Sajulga, a Filipino, and a Vietnamese woman, Chao Thi Thuong, 37, arrived from Ethiopia on Flight ET 628 on Dec 26.

Police thought they were acting suspiciously and asked that their baggage be examined. The search found a total of 4kg of cocaine in the two bags.

The Vietnamese woman allegedly admitted the drugs in her bag belonged to her, but gave no further further details, said Maj Gen Sommai.

Narcotics suppression Police question Francis Mukwamba, a Zambian passport holder whose real nationality is uncertain, at a hotel room in the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok on Monday (Dec 26). Photo: Narcotics Suppression Bureau Facebook page The Filipino man confessed to have been hired to smuggle the drugs into Thailand. The cocaine was to be delivered to a man at a hotel in the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok.

Sajulga was instructed to make the delivery as planned, and kept under close watch.

At the hotel the third suspect, Francis Mukwamba, a Zambian passport holder whose

real nationality was being investigated, was caught when he showed up to collect the drugs.

Authorities searched his room and found 85 grams of crystal meth (ya ice) and 1,640 ecstasy pills.

The trio were being held in custody at the NSB’s division 3 for legal action.

Bangkok Post thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

ASIA NEWS 11

Sparking a fervent debate

Afghan woman pilot’s asylum bid triggers storm of criticism AFGHANISTAN AFP editor3@classactmedia.co.th

T

he shock announcement of Afghanistan’s first woman fixed-wing pilot to seek asylum in the US has touched off a spirited national debate on the country’s most vexing issues: insecurity, women’s rights and mass exodus of young people.

Niloofa r R a h ma n i, a 25-year-old pilot lionised widely as the “Afghan Top Gun” after the 1986 Tom Cruise film on flying aces, was scheduled to return to Afghanistan last week after a 15-month training course with the US Air Force.

But on the eve of her departure, she declared she will not be returning citing fears for her safety, triggering a storm of criticism in Afghanistan for “betraying” her nation but also garnering support from activists.

“What she said in the US was irresponsible and unexpected. She was meant to be a role model for other young

@thephuketnews

Afghanistan’s first female pilot, Niloofar Rahmani, poses for a photograph at an Air Force airfield in Kabul in April 2015.

Photo: Shah Marai/AFP Afghans,” Defence Ministry Spokesman Mohammad Radmanesh said on Monday (Dec 26). “She has betrayed her country. It is a shame.”

Rahmani became a symbol of hope for millions of Afghan women when she surfaced in the press in 2013 after becoming Afghanistan’s first woman pilot since the

Taliban era, dressed in tan combat boots, khaki overalls and aviator glasses.

The once-unimaginable feat last year won her the US State Department’s “Women of Courage Award”.

But with fame came death threats from insurgents and she routinely faced contempt from her male colleagues in

a conservative nation where many still believe that a woman does not belong outside the home.

In an interview in Kabul last year, Rahmani said she always carried a pistol for her protection and though she has grown accustomed to the ogling eyes of men, she never left her airbase in uniform,

lest it make her a target.

Rahmani’s lawyer Kimberly Motley said her decision to seek asylum in the US had been a “heartbreakingly difficult decision”.

“Niloofar and her family have received vicious threats which have unfortunately confirmed that her safety is at significant risk if she were to come back to Afghanistan,” Motley said.

“The real betrayal to Afghanistan is against those who threaten her life, her family’s life, and also to those who continue to oppress women.”

But some of the most virulent criticism over her decision has come from women.

“Dear Niloofar, do you think your problems are bigger than that of millions of other Afghan women?” photojournalist Maryam Khamosh wrote on Facebook.

“I sometimes wish I were Niloofar and could soar in the sky and bomb the enemies of my people. But you, Niloofar, who touched the skies from the ashes of our land have shamed our flag.”

NATO forces also took

umbrage at her media comment that the security situation in Afghanistan is “getting worse and worse”.

“Afghan security forces have seen definitive progress... and their performance in 2016 was better than 2015, and we expect 2017 to be better than 2016,” the military coalition said.

But that sentiment hardly resonates with the Afghan youth, who have continued to flee the country’s escalating conflict in record numbers.

On Monday many Afghans decried another symbol of violence and impunity – social media images of dreaded warlord Far yadi Sarwar Zardad relaxing in a public bathhouse.

Infamous for once keeping a “human dog” that savaged victims on his command, Zardad was unexpectedly deported from Britain this month following his early release from jail.

“When someone like Zardad can roam freely in Kabul then Niloofar has the right to not come back,” said an Afghan man on Facebook.

12 WORLD NEWS

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

Exiled from the forests Ache people take up farming, now they want their old land back PARAGUAY AFP editor3@classactmedia.co.th

F

orced from their ancestral forests by the arrival of big agriculture in eastern Paraguay, the Ache people gave up the huntergatherer lifestyle that had sustained them for centuries.

Now they have taken up farming themselves – and they want their old land back.

The Ache’s homeland was remade in the 1970s by the mass arrival of industrial farmers from neighbouring Brazil.

A territory of fertile land and abundant rivers, the tropical region provided the lush backdrop for the 1986 Academy Award-winning film “The Mission”.

Drawn by these natural riches, the Brazilian settlers set up huge farms, clearing forests to make way for agriculture.

The changes were devastating for the Ache, who had managed to preserve their way of life despite centuries

In a country whose indigenous peoples often live in poverty, the Ache of Paraguay are admired for finding success as farmers, a remarkable transition in a very short time. Photo: Daniel Duarte/AFP of clashes with white colonisers from Spain and Portugal.

The animals they once hunted for food became scarce as their habitat was destroyed.

That ultimately forced the Ache, who risked dying out completely, to abandon the forest.

They were among the last indigenous people in Paraguay to give up hunting and gathering and adopt a sedentary lifestyle.

Now, what they lack is land – once abundant and free,

suddenly scarce and expensive.

Lorenzo Puapirangy, 38, chief of the Ache village of Puerto Barra, says its inhabitants between them have “just 270 hectares to grow soybeans, wheat, corn” – an area smaller than New York’s Central Park.

By contrast, a single family of “Braziguayans”, as the Brazilian settlers’ descendants are known, typically has around 5,000 hectares.

“Paraguay owes a debt to its indigenous peoples. We want our land back,” said Marciano

Chevogy, 37, another chief who is helping to organise a growing protest movement.

He plans to lead 1,500 Ache – of the 2,500 that remain – to the capital, Asuncion, to protest for more land.

In a country whose indigenous peoples often live in poverty, the Ache are admired for finding success as farmers – a remarkable transition in a very short time.

Some 50 Ache families live in Puerto Barra, a scattering of wooden houses set amid the

rich ochre soil and lush green of their fields.

In addition to cash crops, they run small cattle ranches, fish farms and bee-keeping yards.

The indigenous leaders say they are not asking much – several thousand hectares to expand.

But the region’s politics, economy and culture are dominated by the Braziguayans.

Local radio stations broadcast in Brazilian Portuguese.

In Santa Rita, a town of 40,000 people founded by Brazilian immigrants, the main road is lined with farm equipment stores catering to Braziguayan clients.

The Ache complain their demands to the government have so far fallen on deaf ears.

“If the situation is not resolved, we will sue in international court,” said Jose Anegy, another community leader in Puerto Barra.

“We demand our territory be respected. We are humble, peaceful workers.”

In a rural region where the state has little presence, the

Paraguayan government needs to finally intervene, said Bjarne Fostervold, an American missionary who is married to an Ache woman and has adopted their cause.

“The Ache only learned they were in Paraguay when they came out of the forest,” he said.

“They lost their habitat, an impenetrable forest... What’s at stake here is the survival of a people, with their dignity intact. Their ability to be the architects of their own destiny.”

Perched between modernity and tradition, many Ache are nostalgic for the past.

“In the forest we were free.

We lived well. Life was easier.

We didn’t have to buy anything,” said Anegy.

But life has never been the same, said Victoria Pikigy, an 80-something Ache woman, sitting on a mat of woven palm fronds.

“Back then we were happy,” she recalled.

“Sometimes when I go back to the forest I cry. Because those times are gone, and they’ll never come back.”

Sick boy’s dare nets over 2.5mn euros NETHERLANDS A TERMINALLY ILL SIXyear-old Dutch boy, who hoped to raise a few hundred euros by daring people to paint their nails, has raised more than 2.5 million euros (B94mn).

Tijn Kolsteren, who was diagnosed with brain cancer in May, launched the appeal only one week ago, but it fired the imagination of the public.

The charity drive ended last Saturday (Dec 24) and raised over 2.5mn euros.

“With his nail-painting dare he wanted to help children suffering from pneumonia,” the Dutch public newscaster NOS reported.

“It was an enormous success – from DJ Armin van Buuren to Prime Minister Mark Rutte and many other famous celebrities had their nails painted,” it said.

“Paint your nails, make a donation and then challenge three of your friends to do the same,” dared the donation page, which invited participants to share their pictures on social media using the hashtag #lakaan (meaning “the polish is on”).

The appeal is part of a traditional event in The Neth-

Dutch radio DJs show 6-year-old Tijn Kolsteren how much money they raised in their annual fund-raising ‘House of Glass’ of Serious Request on Dec 24. Photo: AFP erlands where radio DJs lock themselves away for several days without food or drink to raise money. This year, proceeds are going to the Red Cross.

Rutte joined the DJs late last Friday (Dec 23) and opted for a deep blue for his own nails.

Tijn’s family learned only last week that a course of chemotherapy had failed to reduce the size of his cancer.

“Despite this bad news, we wanted to do something for children who won’t maybe even make it to six,” his father

Gerrit told the NOS. “We came up with the idea together: Tijn had already painted his nails with a friend and liked it. I wanted to do something similar to the Ice Bucket challenge and men painting their nails is a bit taboo,” he added, referring to the internet craze that raised millions.

The Dutch press hailed the boy as a hero, with the tabloid AD last Friday putting a picture of him dressed as a superhero under the headline “SuperTijn”.

AFP thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

BUSINESS NEWS 13

Nitty, gritty investing fun INVESTMENT

Investors look at share prices at the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) in Bangkok. Photo: AFP

Steven Layne editor@classactmedia.co.th

I

n previous articles in this series on the basic introductory steps of investing in the Thai Stock Exchange, I covered most of the basics about trading in the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), including some valuation and timing indicators, reasons why one should consider employing a Thai broker over an international one, the function of Non-Voting Depository Receipt (NVDR) stocks for foreign traders, and the official portals for researching Thai companies.

In this fourth and final instalment of the series, I will try to shed some more light on the entangled web of public companies and the Thai economy.

As alluded to in my previous articles, getting a grasp on the SET may seem overwhelming at first, considering that there are hundreds of companies listed under dozens of sectors and indices on the SET, in addition to the Market for Alternative Investment (MAI).

For each listed company, there is a continuously-updated stream of financial data and research available – from the latest quarterly reports and news releases directly from the companies themselves to third-party news, financial fundamental analysis and “insider” tip-offs.

Knowledge is power, and the companies with higher market capitalisation (the product of all the shares and the share value) will tend to have more transparent and dependable shareholder relations and communications.

A good starting point is to study the big players – the large market-cap companies in the SET 50 or SET 100 –

@thephuketnews

which tend to set the trends and reflect the health for the rest of the economy.

Happenings with Airports of Thailand (AoT), for example, will certainly impact the business of all the other SET-listed aviation transport companies, be it Thai Airways (THAI), Bangkok Airways (BA) or Air Asia (AAV), to name a few.

And despite the notion that the Thai economy is all about agriculture, electronics and tourism, truth be told energy and petrochemicals are much more significant drivers.

By far the largest SETlisted company measured by revenue and market-cap is PTT, a state-owned (the Ministry of Finance holds 1 51% stake) petrochemical conglomerate with a marketcap of more than B1 trillion.

Trading for about B365 per share at the time of press (late December), PTT is the only Thai company in the Fortune Global 500, and it should also be noted that its parent PTT

Group owns a number of other profitable SET-50 subsidiaries (PTTEP, PTTGC, TOP and IRPC).

Another key corporate cat in the Thai economy is agrofood giant Charoen Pokphand (“CP”), a powerful, private Chinese-Thai conglomerate that provides exposure to investors through a number of SET-listed subsidiaries, namely CP All (CPALL), CP Foods (CPF) and True Corporation (TRUE).

With a market-cap of more than B550 billion, CPALL owns the franchise rights for 7-Eleven stores in Thailand and is also a major shareholder in Siam Makro with an 18% stake; CPF, with a market cap of about B255bn, is a major player in the farm, feed and poultry business, in Thailand and globally.

Though not an agrofood firm, TRUE (market cap: B275mn) is CP’s telecommunications arm, which is constantly in heated competition with the likes of Advanced

Info Service (ADVANC), Total Access Communication (DTAC) and others.

Competition is one of many factors to keep in mind when comparing stocks. Some companies and sectors enjoy little to no competition in their respective sector or industry.

Padaeng Industry (PDI), a smelting and zinc specialist company is the only listed company in the SET’s Mining index, for example. Sugar market share, in contrast, is contested by four companies (KTIS, BRR, KSL and KBS), who all produce the same products: table sugar, fertiliser and ethanol from sugarcane.

Some brands or products have multiple associations within a network of companies. For example, if you were looking to invest in Mama, the Thai instant noodle market leader, there are at least three listed companies with a stake in this brand, namely, Thai President Foods (TF), President Rice Products (PR) and Saha Pathanapibul (SPC).

As you can imagi ne, keeping abreast with world, regional, national and local industry and market trends is an essential skill. Luckily, all the brokers have trained economic analysts on the payroll who study the various factors at play and will provide their views, predictions and recommendations for free.

Some of the tips I have read are logical and have

proved to be fruitful, while others tend to appoint too much weight on long-term forecasts, overlooking immediate factors or threats at play – think politics and the weather.

In the end, it’s up to you to find your own unique preference, style and strategy in the SET, and there’s only one real way to learn – to get out there and start trading! Even if only on paper to start with, it can be a rewarding – and addictive – hobby, if not a supplemental income source.

Disclaimer: This article should not substitute qualified “investment advice”. The author does not represent any bank, fiduciary, broker or consultancy of any kind and is merely one individual whose aim is to learn more about investing in the Thai stock market, and share his direct experiences with others, and thus assumes no responsibility or credit for any action or inaction by readers, whether resulting in gain or loss. Serious investors are advised to consult with a qualified financial adviser or fiduciary.

14 BUSINESS NEWS

Banyan Tree launches first branded condos PROPERTY T H E B A N YA N T R E E Group has launched its first branded condominiums in Thailand under the Angsana brand with the Angsana Beachfront Residences, Phuket development, located within the Laguna Phuket estate on Phuket’s west coast.

Just metres from the sea, the freehold properties are absolute beachfront, and all are managed by the Angsana Phuket Resort. With only two apartments per floor, each residence offers expansive internal and external living areas. Each condo also features its own private pool at the fringes of a broad outdoor patio, and there is secure parking for residents and their guests.

“The award winning team of Banyan Tree designers have created living environments that make the most of panoramic views and ocean breezes and bringing their distinctive flair right through to the finest finishing touches of interior design and prestige fittings

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

Campaign launched for certified tourism safety TOURISM

The properties, metres from the sea, are all managed

by Angsana Phuket Resort. and accessories,” said Stuart Reading, Head of Banyan Tree Group Property.

The configurations include two to three bedrooms.

Ownership of a beachfront residence also brings access to the Sanctuary Club, a global network with more than 40 resorts and hotels, in excess of 60 spas and 80 retail galleries. The array of exclusive offers and privileges includes membership of the championship Laguna Phuket Golf Club, voted “Thailand’s Best” in the 2015 World Golf Awards.

Management of condominiums by Angsana provides an array of services and amenities, including the option of renting the condominium on a short or a long-term basis.

The Phuket News

Bangkok Post editor@classactmedia.co.th

T

he Tourism Department has introduced a standard called 4Q, aiming to encourage tourism-related entrepreneurs to upgrade services, become legitimate operators, charge fair prices and observe hygiene and safety.

The agency expects more than 10,000 tourism-related entrepreneurs to register for evaluation under the standard during the first three months of the programme.

Companies that pass the evaluation will receive 4Q certification and be “white-listed” as quality tourism businesses.

Subsequently, the list of companies will be distributed to all foreign offices of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, as well as to Thai embassies and the department’s business contacts abroad.

Director-General Wanasiri

Providing safety for tourists is one of the criteria for the 4Q standard. Photo: Chaiyot Yogncharoenchai Morakul said the department’s mission in 2017 would be to focus on holding tourism businesses to a proper code of conduct.

Issued by the National Tourism Policy Committee led

by Gen Tanasak Patimapragorn, the new 4Q standard was passed to the department for implementation after instructions from Tourism and Sports

Minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul.

The goal is to solicit some 10,000 tourism businesses to register for evaluation by the end of February.

Ms Wanasiri said 4Q is the basic foundation of all tourism standards and businesses can easily upgrade themselves to the next level, the internationally accepted Thailand

Tourism Standards (TTS), in the future. The department will also give 4Q businesses assistance with marketing as one of the benefits.

The 4Q standards focus on legitimate businesses, with fair product/service pricing and safety and security, to encourage quality tourism.

They include four points.

Q1 is legitimacy, meaning a tourism business must be lawfully registered as a juristic person and must be licensed by the government to operate the registered business.

Q2 is fair pricing, meaning a tourism business must clearly display and commit to the price of offered goods and/ or services. Q3 is hygiene, and Q4 is safety, meaning a tourism business must be certified for its safety in services.

Ms Wanasiri said the TTS are based on activities such as tour planning, transport, accommodation, food, entertainment, shopping, tourist attractions and Asean standards.

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of instruments for Grand Prix racers and discerning cruisers in Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

For larger vessels with complex and critical power requirements, owners and captains can be reassured that EMCL has long experience and factory technical training on shore power converter systems as proven by a contact from Airports of Thailand to deal with the aircraft power converters, a critical and trusted function.

Modern marine electronics and systems have evolved at pace with the advances in computing; as a consequence today’s instruments and systems

Electrical Marine has all you need to enjoy boating, simply. have a bewildering range of diverse functions. All electrical functions can now be controlled and monitored from a single – or numerous – locations on a shared multi-function screen if desired. Check battery voltage, power draw, power remaining, operate the auto pilot, view the radar, AIS, charts, position and even control the stereo and turn

on lights from a single location; advanced equipment making operation simple.

EMCL can make it all happen, simply.

Electrical Marine will be at the Phuket International Boat Show (PIMEX) at Royal Phuket Marina, Jan 5-8. Tel: + 66 76 510 782. Fax: + 66 76 510 782

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

Take a trip back to the 70s at Hard Rock Café

16

Divine desserts and complex flavours at Tré

18

ROCKIN’ KAZAKHS

The LampbI Orchestra bring their unique music from the Kazakhstan steppe all the way to Phuket > P19

The LampbI Orchestra describe their multi-instrumental music as ‘Russian Rock from KZ’. Photo: Supplied

@thephuketnews

16 EVENTS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

Firing up for a good cause Alistair Carthew editor1@classactmedia.co.th

This fantastic journey will also be aimed at raising funds for the iconic PIWC scholarships that have helped poor students further their education to the highest level.

L

ook out! The dynamic ladies of the Phuket International Women’s Club (PIWC) are about to breathe fire (volcanic) and ice (glacial) and maybe even a little brimstone at their annual fund raising event in January 2017.

That’s right, on Saturday, January 21, Phuket’s oldest charity will take members and guests on an incredible “Fire & Ice” themed journey set around volcanoes and glaciers at the top of the world, to the bottom, and several places in between.

This fantastic journey will also be aimed at raising funds for the iconic PIWC scholarships that have helped poor students further their education to the highest level, including medical school, for the last 22 of the charity’s 27 years of existence.

PIWC Chairperson of Social Events, Maggy Wigman says, “We always try to conjure up imaginative themes for our main fundraiser. The fire and ice idea is not only a bit of fun, it’s also educational. Who knows where the Perito Moreno glacier is, for example? (Answer: Argentina). As a result of all this hard work to raise funds we take great delight in the faces of the children when they receive their scholarship certificates and also when we meet them later after they have graduated.”

On January 21 six tables of 10 people will be named after glaciers (Hubbard, Franz Joseph, Perito Moreno, Mer de Glace, Pasterze and Engabreen) and a further six tables will be named after volcanoes (Etna, Kilimanjaro, Popocatepetl, Fuji, Bromo and Maelifell).

To compliment the “Fire & Ice” theme, patrons will be asked to wear white, silver and blue for the glacier tables and red, gold and orange for the volcano tables.

So get out the glad rags, buy up the material and fire up the sewing machines, it’s going to be a (volcanic) blast!

A photo from last year’s PIWC Gala fundraising dinner, this year looks set to be even bigger.

There will also be some fantastic items up for grabs on the night. Emirates, one of the world’s leading airlines, has offered two economy class tickets from Phuket or Bangkok to any destination in Europe served by the airline.

Maybe to visit Mer de Glace glacier in France? The winners will be announced at the event.

A silent auction will offer some mouth-watering two night stays at top class resorts and hotels in Bangkok, Macau, Langkawi, Chiang Mai and Phuket, a luxury boat trip, valuable paintings and many other goodies.

Don’t forget the “duck pond” either!

Catch one of the 30 ducks floating in the swimming pool and win a restaurant voucher worth between B2,000 and

B5,000!

Delicious food from the new Firefly restaurant at The Pavilions will give the “Fire & Ice” revellers the stamina to rock the night away to DJ Fab’s eclectic mix of music... and, get this, Maggy has promised “not too many boring speeches!”

Here’s what you have to do: Buy, in advance, a B2,500 ticket to the grand buffet including one complimentary drink. Preferably book a table of 10 for yourself and friends, and remember to book early so you don’t miss out!

Ticketing information at info@piwcphuket.com. Contacts: Maggy at robmaggy@yahoo.com and Carole at mummydux@gmail.com

Disco inferno!

ADVERTORIAL

I

f you want to take a trip back in time to the seventies make sure you head out to Hard Rock Café in Patong for their Saturday Night Fever Party. Every Saturday at Hard Rock resident bands Kayle Syncro and T-Rex and serving staff will be donning there finest disco threads and letting their permed hair loose as they rock out to some classic seventies disco tracks from 7pm until late. So don’t be afraid to break out you flares and platform shoes and get busy on the dancefloor.

To keep with the retro theme the night’s menu will feature classic dishes from Hard Rock’s original “Rockstar” menu. It will include American favourites like cheeseburgers, buttery corn on the cobb, a massive double-cheesburger, bacon, lettuce and tomato (BLT) sandwiches and of course, a grilled cheese sandwich. For dessert there are old-

Come in for a classic double-cheeseburger. fashioned open sundaes and banana splits.

Hard Rock Café Phuket is also offering a special retail promotion for this festive season. The Rockshop is the perfect place to find a gift for the family and friends, not just for Christmas, but for any time of the year. Offer 1: Buy three adult T-shirts and get free Hard Rock Café Phuket classic shot glass. Offer 2: Buy four adult T-shirts get free classic hat. Offer 3: Buy five adult Tshirts get free classic T-shirt. thephuketnews

18 DINING

Nachos with three-bean mix, cheese, pico de gallo salsa, jalapenos, green onions and sour cream.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

Shrimp tacos with grilled shrimp with sour cream, lettuce and served in flour tortillas.

Spicy salsas and sensual songs ADVERTORIAL

Enjoy some fantastic flavours from Mexico with classic dishes like nachos and fajitas and authentic snacks like shrimp tacos and chicken quesadillas.

E

very Thursday night is a Latin rock party at Hard Rock Café Phuket, where you can come down and listen to some sultry Latin stylings from two of the island’s best Latin performers. Hard Rock’s resident Latin singers Gresiy Martin from Cuba and Veronica Rojas from Paraguay will take you on a musical journey through Latin America with some classic and contemporary songs that will have you up on the dancefloor in no time. Hard Rock’s resident band Kayle Syncro will be there providing the rocking Latin rhythms to compliment the soulful voices of Greisy and Veronica.

It’s not just the music though, Latin night is a chance to enjoy some fantastic flavours from Mexico with classic dishes like nachos and fajitas and authentic snacks like shrimp tacos and chicken quesadillas.

Hard rock’s classic nachos feature tortilla chips piled high with three-bean mix, Monterey jack and cheddar cheese, pico de gallo salsa, jalapeños, green

onions and garnished with sour cream.

If you feel like some seafood, try the authentic shrimp tacos with grilled shrimp with sour cream, lettuce and served in flour tortillas.

The chicken quesadillas come with grilled chicken stuffed with pineapple, pico de gallo salsa, Hard Rock’s very own bbq sauce and a blend of cheeses.

For a hearty, filling option try a sizzling fajita with your choice of chicken, beef or combo, served with pico de gallo salsa, Monterey jack and cheddar cheeses, fresh guacamole, sour cream and warm tortillas.

Hard Rock Café Phuket is also offering a special retail promotion for this festive season. The Rockshop is the perfect place to find a gift for the family and friends, not just for Christmas, but

Exquisite presentation.

Singers Gresiy Martin and Veronica Rojas. for any time of the year. Offer 1: Buy three adult T-shirts and get free Hard Rock Café Phuket classic shot glass.

Offer 2: Buy four adult T-shirts get free classic hat. Offer 3: Buy five adult Tshirts get free classic T-shirt.

Asian influences.

Tré restaurant is back in action

S

et amongst the serene DoublePool Villas, the newly re-opened Tré restaurant will serve International cuisine of the highest order, replete with a premium Western menu. Tré boasts a sublime dining experience by combining freshly sourced ingredients with slow-cooking methods, showcasing a splendid array of wonderful flavours.

This new and exciting direction for Tré takes inspiration from the global cuisine from some of the most distinguished restaurants in Europe.

Banyan Tree Phuket’s esteemed Executive Chef Alfonso de la Dehesa and Executive Sous Chef Kreaton Cutajar, having formerly worked in Michelinstarred restaurants, bring expertise to bear on their new menu for Tré – which features modern Western cooking techniques and presentation while incorporating Thailand’s native products.

Wagyu striploin steak, scottish langoustines with Madagascar peppered sweet breads and foie gras with pear purée are just a few of the delectable entrées on the new menu at Tré. Main courses include poached veal tenderloin, risotto with truffles and homemade duck ham, as well as smoked halibut

and wild striped bass infused with herb butter for seafood lovers.

There is no better way to round off a meal than with a sweet selection of exquisite desserts. Guests can choose to savour a rich, wholesome rum banana flambé or a delicious chocolate soufflé with caramel and vanilla ice cream to finish.

Tré is at the forefront of culinary excellence with its innovative dishes enhanced by molecular and modern preparation techniques as well as avant-garde presentation. With a “drinks trolley” on site, this adds a stylish dimension to the gastronomic experience. This ambitious re-invention of Tré is part of the latest impressive upgrade of Banyan Tree Phuket, following the recent revamp of its celebrated Saffron and The Watercourt restaurants. Guests can now indulge in the glorious spread of treats and sips of Tré amidst the tranquil surroundings Banyan Tree Phuket’s signature DoublePool Villas.

For further information or bookings, please email: fb-concierge@banyantree. com or call +66 76 372 400 on extension number 5463. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ENTERTAINMENT 19

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

Kazakh rock band, LampbI Orchestra will be performing their unique music in Phuket.

From Kazakhstan with love SPONSORED We can’t wait to bring our sound to new people, they will see that our songs are designed to bring joy and create a great atmosphere. We cannot wait to share this with the people of Phuket.

K

azakh rock band, LampbI Orchestra, of Almaty, will give several concerts in Phuket over the New Year period from 2016 to 2017, including a gala concert at Maikhao Dream Hotels & Resorts. In an interview with The Phuket New, vocalist Victor Kim talked about their expectations from the mini-tour, the awards they have won, as well as a trip to the inauguration of president-elect Donald Trump.

What are your expectations from Phuket?

Initial expectations include, primarily, a new emotion from different people and crowds. A new sound and brand new lights for the shows that burn the word “LampbI” into your retina.

What are you going to perform?

We’re creative people. It’s important for us to get our music heard, to create emotion amongst people.

We’re looking forward to introducing ourselves to new people this New Year. Everyone out there is special to us and we want to give them a positive experience. We have quite the repertoire so expect to hear a lot.

Have you been on tour in Thailand before?

Unfortunately for us, no, we’ve never had the chance to play in Thailand before. We’re very excited

to show people here what “Russian rock from KZ” is all about!

What do you think is awaiting you in Phuket? Who is your audience here?

New Year is awaiting us! It’s our job to ensure that people see in the New Year in the best way possible. This is the main holiday period in Phuket, we want to make this a good time for all.

We’re very grateful for the fans that are already in Thailand, waiting to sing along with us in a brand new setting.

We can’t wait to bring our sound to new people too, they will see that our songs are designed to bring joy and create a great atmosphere. We cannot wait to share this with the people of Phuket.

Where do you perform most often and where are your favourite places to perform.

We play many venues, hundreds.

Some common places include venues in Ekaterinburg, Astana, Aktau, Atyrau, Alma-Aty and Moscow. We often play alongside Aria, DDT, Lube, B-2, Lima

‘Brilliant’ violin virtuoso to play Phuket SPONSORED

T

he award-winning musician and “brilliant violinist”, as named by The Times newspaper, Marat Bisengaliyev, will be performing several concerts in Phuket. To get to know the artist a little better, The Phuket News asked him a few questions.

Have you played here before?

I have played many times in Thailand, yes. I was in Bangkok during the jubilee concert. I was also entrusted to play for UNESCO in Bangkok. I have a lot of friends here in Thailand, both Thais and expats, who chose to settle down here in this friendly country.

What do you have planned after your visit to Phuket?

After Phuket, the band and I will be touring the cities of Kazakhstan along with a few other countries to promote our new double @thephuketnews

album “Nomad”. This record is the result of many years of working with my orchestra in Almaty, Uralsk and Mumbai. Immediately after our time in Phuket we’ll be getting straight on a plane and off to Monaco. It will be my orchestra’s first time performing there and we’ll be doing the same show as in Phuket. After Monaco we have a long season ahead of us in India with the opera La Bohème.

What should expats and tourists who visit your concert expect?

I think the local expats will be very pleased with the performance we have lined up. It’s been possible for us to assemble a very good squad with some top-class players at the peak of their game. They’re worthy of any stage. They’ll also enjoy the youthful energy, high level of skill and of course, the physical beauty of the performance.

Which awards are you proud of?

I treat awards with a degree of

Marat Bisengaliyev will be performing several concerts in Phuket. indifference. Of course it’s pleasing to receive them though, and I’m particularly pleased when they are the result of independent surveys.

Marat Bisengaliev will perform on Dec 31 at Maikhao Dream Villas for ‘Black Thai Bare Feet’ (B12,500), January 3 at Le Meridian with ‘Classics and Rock’ (B2,500).

On Jan 5 at Dream Beach Club (B2,000).

Vajkule, Dolphin, Pilot and the group known as “Slot”. Check them out! We like to play open air and places that accommodate our good vibes.

What awards and prizes are you most proud of?

We have a lot of awards (he says modestly). We’re proud of them all as we’ve put a lot of effort into what we do.

The most fun for us were probably Hard Rock Rising (Best Band) and E.M.A. 2016 (Best Rock Band). Our best and most honourable award is to see, hear, feel your heart, eyes and warmth at our shows. That’s what we strive for most.

Where to go after Phuket?

After Phuket, we’re going on tour to Moscow, then to a festival in Yekaterinburg, then back to Moscow, Astrakhan, Aktau and then we’re off to Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration.

For details on upcoming performances check their facebook page at: facebook. com/LampyOrchestra

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CULTURE 21

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

Give the gift of happiness ALL ABOUT BUDDHISM

Jason A. Jellison mitnoy@live.com

W

e all know that times have not always been happy in recent years. I found some old news articles recently which made me decide what I would write about for this holiday issue: From The New York Times: “Bids to Halt Financial Crisis, Reshape Landscape of Wall St” and from The Washington Post: “Bush Enacts Historic Financial Rescue”.

Finally, from The Wall Street Journal: “Bailout Plan Rejected, Markets Plunge, Forcing New Scramble to Solve Crisis”.

These headlines, of course, are from the bad old days of 2008. I’m sure this is a year that many of my readers will never forget. It was the year that ultimately began paving the path for incoming President Trump and a host of “back to home” movements across Europe and the Western world... but did you ever ask yourself how we got into that mess?

Many of my readers would answer that question differently. Some would blame President George W Bush for the economic fiasco of 2008. Still, the more politically astute among my readers might actually blame former President Bill Clinton for the crisis, as he was the one who signed off on removing the Glass-Steagall Act that was installed to prevent another depressio, but Clinton’s actions arguably set the stage for yet another depression. Still others might lay the blame in places I can’t think of.

However, in reality, there is only one actor who was to blame for our financial woes and he has a name: Desire. While it is all too tempting to play the blame

Desire can lead to debt.

Karma. Photo: Himalayan Academy Publications @thephuketnews

game in our current economic malaise, the reality is that almost all of us had a hand in getting to our present circumstances. Simply put, we failed to control our desires and the politicians of yore kept the party going until we passed out dead drunk. The cold, hard reality is that most of us spent money we didn’t have, borrowed still more and then couldn’t give it back... all just to pay in cash for foolish pleasures.

But, I am pleased this holiday season to say that there is another way. His Majesty the late Bhumibol Adulyadej spent many years developing a philosophy that allows us to avoid all of this heartache again. It is called the Sufficiency Economic Philosophy and I am going to teach you about it as a gift for the holidays.

Let’s talk basic economics. Most Western countries in which we have been raised operate on what some economists call a “Utility-Maximizing” model.

If that sounds complicated, it’s really not. Basically, we have been taught that living well means living within our means. In other words, if we make $40,000 (B1.44 million) a year, then we can spend and invest $40,000 a year.

This is deeply flawed thinking.

The problem with a maximizing model is that, even if we stay within our budget, we generally don’t constrain our desires. So, we go and take out six-year loans on a $40,000 car when a $4,000 (B144,042) used one would do just as well. We also go and take out 30-year mortgages on homes that are at the very top end of what we can afford, or we go out and spend lavishly on dinners and passing pleasures... meanwhile, the debt slowly grows.

Finally, the good times end and hard times arrive. Now, our income goes down, but we’ve saved very little, subsequently shared very little with the poor, and now become the poor ourselves.

That’s all too often the fate of this Western economic philosophy.

However, His Majesty created the Sufficiency Economic Philosophy to resolve this problem. It works very simply, but most academics forget to talk about the key driver of the plan. Desire. The first step is to always consider and moderate your desires. Sure, we’d all love to have the Cadillac but, considering I only drive three months of the year, do I really need one?

The key is moderating your desires and thinking about every purchase before you make it. Luxuries are fine as long as they are occasional and paid for.

The second step is to live somewhat below your means. As my friend once said, there is no magic, sorcery, or wizardry here. If you routinely spend less than you earn you will now be in a “UtilityMinimizing” model and watch the money pile up. No fancy stocks are needed.

No financial gurus are required. All that is needed is the ability to think ahead and curb your desires.

The next step is sharing – this is an alien concept for many of my fellow Americans. We traditionally are taught to mainly attend to our own financial well-being. Some of us might give money at church or temple but what’s missing here is everyday sharing. It’s the little things you do that come back to benefit you.

There’s an old American saying

Giving is about more than just presents. Photo: Shane Karp “What goes around comes around”.

Somewhat like Karma, when you consistently do well onto others, the world will do well onto you. There are spiritual reasons for this, but there is also good, old-fashioned gossip. People talk and when you help people out who need a hand it comes back to you.

Finally, the last step is one that actually has to exist from early on. That step is called sincerity. Saving money is good, but not if done for the wrong reasons. Giving money is good, but not if done for the wrong reasons. Saving and giving has to be done because you want to do it, not because you want to get something in return. Again, this comes down to controlling desire and, without this, the plan does not work.

Perhaps this sounds folksy or simple but I can tell you this: My world has changed immeasurably ever since I went over to this philosophy. My health

has improved, my happiness has improved and my academic career has rocketed out of sight.

The holidays are upon us and we all want to be happy. This year, all of you who read this series have been given a powerful gift, free of any charge. It is up to you if you want to use it or not.

But win, lose, or draw, there are two words that I wish to share with all of you.

Happy Holidays.

All About Buddhism is a monthly column in The Phuket News where I take readers on my exotic journey into Thai Buddhism and debunk a number of myths about Buddhism. If you have any specific queries, or ideas for articles, please let us know. Email editor1@classactmedia.co.th, and we will do our best to accommodate your interests.

22 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016 From left: Mandy from The Westin Siray Bay, Jason from Class Act Media, Bee from The Westin Siray Bay and Tiya from Class Act Media.

From left: Tiya, Peach, Jason, March and Chris at the Class Act Media offices.

LIFE’S A PEACH WHEN RENAISSANCE DROPS BY TO SAY ‘MERRY CHRISTMAS’ Staff from Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa recently visited the Class Act Media offices during the run-up to the festive holidays to wish everyone a merry Christmas and a happy New Year – and to pass on a gift basket of Christmas goodies.

Pear, Sales and PR Manager for Centara Grand and Amp, Reservation Manager for Centara Grand.

THE WESTIN SIRAY BAY CHRISTMAS WISHES THE BEST ONE COULD ‘BEAR’ Staff from The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa visited Class Act Media to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and pass on a gift basket of Christmas goodies. Thank you, Westin!

Dozens of Centara Grand’s staff helped to prepare the amazing Christmas buffet.

CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER BUFFET AT CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT Christmas cheer was in the air at Centara Grand Beach Resort on Christmas Eve. Guests enjoyed a sumptuous Christmas buffet with all of the classic Christmas dishes on offer. Santa Claus also visited to hand out presents to the excited children and several performances by the Centara team entertained guests during the evening.

Piyoros Naronglith, General Manager of The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa with children all dressed up for Christmas.

Santa came to visit some lucky children on Christmas Eve.

CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER AND A VISIT FROM SANTA AT THE WESTIN SIRAY BAY RESORT The festive spirit was truly at heart at The Westin Siray Bay on Christmas Eve. Guests enjoyed a resplendent Christmas dinner with all the classic trimmings. Santa also stopped by, to be greeted by dozens of happy children dressed up as Santa’s little helpers. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ISLAND SCENE 23

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

From left: Jason, GM of Class Act Media and Nattinee from Como Point Yamu.

COMO POINT YAMU WISHES CLASS ACT MEDIA A MERRY CHRISTMAS Nattinee from Como Point Yamu recently visited the Class Act Media offices to wish our staff a merry Christmas and a happy New Year and to pass on a basket of Christmas gifts.

From left: Colin and Jason at the Class Act Media offices.

PRINCE OF SONGKLA DELIVERS TIDINGS OF A MERRY CHRISTMAS Colin Gallagher, Assistant to the Dean of International Affairs at the Prince of Songkla University Phuket campus recently visited the Class Act Media offices to wish our staff a merry Christmas and a happy New Year – and to present a gift basket for Christmas.

IKEA WISHES CLASS ACT MEDIA A MERRY CHRISTMAS The IKEA PR and Marketing team from Bangkok recently visited the Class Act Media offices to wish our staff a well-designed merry Christmas and a happy New Year. They also brought with them baskets of Christmas gifts and stuffed toys for all the good boys and girls in the office.

From left: Tiya, Nuch, Jason, Ploy, Jason, Mai and Tae

Santa Claus greeted children and asked them what they want for Christmas.

Carolers lent a festive air to the night activities.

JW MARRIOTT PHUKET RESORT & SPA SINGS, AND CELEBRATES, CHRISTMAS JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa celebrated the festive season on Christmas Eve and Christmas day in style by hosting numerous activity programs at the Kid’s Pavilion, transforming the Mai Khao Ballroom into a ‘Christmas Wonderland’ for a Christmas party with young guests and their families. The celebration continued into the night with a bountiful Christmas buffet dinner by the Andaman Sea. Guests enjoyed live entertainment as well as carol singing throughout the evening. Santa Claus, along with Mrs Claus and helpers, made their appearance around the resort to greet guests and give goodies to all the good children.

Dmitriy Frolov, General Manager of Alpina Property, was the lucky winner of an iPhone on the night.

From left: Bow, Elena, Aom, Tik, Amma and Aleksei.

NAIHARN RE-LIFE APARTMENT COMPLEX CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING Top management and support staff at the NaiHarn Re-Life apartment complex recently celebrated the new project’s grand opening. As part of the celebration a lucky draw was held with great prizes up for grabs, including the latest iPhone and a scooter. @thephuketnews

24 EVENTS

FRI

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

30 DEC

SAT

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

31 DEC New Year’s Eve Buffet at The Bistro New Year Eve Buffet Dinner at The Bistro. Celebrate the joy of the season. Join us for the New Year Eve Buffet Dinner at The Bistro. Adults: THB1,900++ per person, children: THB950++ per person. The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. Reservations: The Bistro at Millennium Resort Patong, fb@millenniumpatong.com, 076 601 999.

Barefoot Black Tie 2017 New Year Eve

WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY Come join us for our WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong from 12-6pm! Indulge in All You Can Eat BBQ Pork Ribs, Cajun Chicken and Sides for ONLY 395 BAHT! Our BBQ is famous at Two Chefs! Come try us out and enjoy our mouthwatering pork ribs, flavorbursting chicken and more! Come for the FOOD Stay for the FUN at Two Chefs!!! www.twochefs.com.

Kata Beach 076-333-370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344-914.

Enjoy the opportunity to dress in Barefoot Black Tie at Maikhao Dream Villa Resort and Spa with a sparkling welcome reception and opening concert

by MARAT BISENGALIEV, soloists of SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA ALMATY and mezzo-soprano YULIYA ZINOVIEVA followed by New Year Dinner and entertainment - DJ mixing with modern violinist Alex Greg and much more. R.S.V.P. 080 538 2522. Dress Code is Barefoot Black Tie.

SUN Space Night Party New Year’ Eve Celebration DJ Anne Betrayay, Bambi. THB 6,270++/Adult, THB 3,135++Child (under 12 years old). Cocktail Reception, Poolside Buffet, Free drinks, Space shows and Lucky draw. Reservations, Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort, 076 602 500.

BBQ Buffet on Saturday Night

Pool Competition at Expat Sports Bar

Come and join us along the shores of the Andaman sea for an unforgettable experience of freshest seafood, generous selection of BBQ items, tempting desserts and delicious drinks. At Cosmo Restaurant.

Everyday from 6.30pm until 10.00pm. 1,950 THB for adults, 975 THB for children under 12. Reservations, Cosmo Restaurant at The Nai Harn Phuket, fbreservation@thenaiharn.com, 076 380 200.

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

New Year’s Eve. Party & Dinner Buffet @ Friendship Beach

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

Live Sports at Expat Hotel Mussels night @ Shakers

1 JAN

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

Friendship Beach Resort welcomes you to our 12th annual New Years Eve Party & Dinner Buffet. Featuring Live DJ, Cabaret Show, Fire Show, Welcome Drink, Party Favors.Buffet with: Imported Beef Fillet w/Cognac Cream, Grilled Salmon, BBQ Pork Ribs (award winning), Roast Duck Curry, Prawn Cocktails & a large selection of Appetizers, Desserts and Salads. Adults 1,900++ Kids under 12 700++. For Bookings: 66 (0)89 728 5304 or email chef@friendshipbeac.com Chef Charlie, 27/1 Soi Mittrapap Rawai Phuket, chef@friendshipbeach.com, +66 (0) 89 728 5304, +66 (0) 76 289 139.

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

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

New Years Eve Dec 31st at All Two Chefs Locations!

St Joseph Catholic Church - Christmas & New Year Mass

Saturday Live Music Every Saturday live music by the Soulcoustics, 9pm til late. Cariocas Bistro & Lounge Phuket Town, near BKK Hospital.

Daily till Dec 24, 2016 - 7am - Novena Mass (Simbang Umaga). Dec 24, 2016 - 10:30pm - Christmas Caroling & 11pm - Christmas Mass. Dec 25, 2016 9am - Christmas Mass, 10:30am - Christmas Caroling & 11am - Christmas Mass. Dec 31, 2016 - 6:30pm - Thanksgiving Mass - Sunday Eve. Jan 01, 2017 9am & 11am - Happy New Year Mass.Jan 06, 2017 - 6:30pm - First Friday Mass. Jan 08, 2017 - 9am Solemnity of the Epiphany & 11am - Solemnity of the Epiphany and blessing to all the children (Babies and children up to 12-years-old).

Enjoy your celebration with us while indulging in a delightful set menu for Only 1,295 Baht. Includes: AMUSE – BOUCHE: Gin - Citrus cured seabass with avocado foam, apple and tarragon salad STARTER: Venison Carpaccio with orange and horseradish SECOND COURSE: Lobster Bisque Cappuccino MAIN: Beef Tenderloin with truffle and foie gras sauce, potato gratin and roasted vegetables or Cedar plank salmon with dill mashed potatoes, confit tomatoes and vodkalemon cream sauce DESSERT: Poached pear with basil strawberry cream, vanilla sponge and an allspice crumble.

New Year Sensation 2017 At Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas Fridays Wine & Tapas night All you can eat Tapas with one bottle of Regular White & Red: Baht 1,490 net per person. Premium White, Red, Rose and Bubbly: Baht 1,790 net per person.

Tapas starts: 19:00 – 22:00. Located Vanilla Sky Bar, Cape Sienna Hotel, Kamala. 076 337 300.

New Year’s Eve Masquerade Theme Party at Hard Rock Cafe Live Bands Performance, Fire Dance Show, Live DJ. Entry pachage B1500 per person including 2 select drinks. VIP Package B3000 incl set dinner and drinks.

Feast on sumptuous salad, a fresh seafood, BBQ and carving stations, mouthwatering Western dishes and authentic Thai cuisine, including Phuket favourites, followed by local Thai dessert temptations while guests will be entertained with Thai classical performances and lucky draws for only THB 4,999 per person and THB 1,999 per person for free-flow beverages throughout the night. For more information and reservation, call +66 76 231 999 or email h8109@accor.com

Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY Come enjoy a Traditional Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY at Two Chefs Kata Beach, Kata Center, Karon and Patong for Only 395 Baht! Enjoy a Large ALL YOU CAN EAT selection of your favorites from 12-6pm! Featuring: Roast Aussie Beef, Pork Loin and Chicken. Roasted or Mashed Potatoes. Roasted Mixed Vegetables Flavoured with Thyme and Garlic.

Yorkshire Pudding and Red Wine Gravy. Come for the FOOD - Stay for the FUN! www.twochefs.com. Kata Beach 076-333-370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344-914

Go Live Sunday Seafood Brunch The Banyan Tree Seafood Brunch experience returns with a generous selection of live fresh, local and imported seafood with exception Lobster dished, Japanese starters, mouth-watering meats, Asia wok and Western grill treats. Gourmet cuisine, exceptional service, Live Jazz and tranquil surroundings, The Banyan Tree has something for everyone! Every Sunday 12.00-15.30, price start from 2,800net per person.

Reservations, Banyan Tree Phuket, fb-phuket@banyantree.com, 076 372 400.

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EVENTS 25

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

SUN

1 JAN

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice of either roast beef, chicken, loin of pork or leg of lamb served with roast and boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Only B350 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See: otoolsphuket.com.

WED

4 JAN

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

Mediterranean Sunday Brunch at Metzo’s Feast to your heart’s content on our Mediterranean menu of mezze and tapas served family style at your table, live cooking station, kids’ corner and dessert buffet. After brunch, why not relax and take in the view of the Andaman Sea with complimentary access to the resort swimming pool. Starting from THB 990++ per person. Reservations, Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort, metzos@outrigger.co.th, 076 360 600.

MON

All you can eat BBQ Ribs night

2 JAN

FRI

6 JAN

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

THU

5 JAN

Come to Navrang Mahal in Karon Sea Sands Resort & Spa for an authentic Indian Feast First Week Friday and the Third Week Friday, in Karon Beach. Try out our delicious Aloo Tikki, Samosas, Chicken Tandoori, Aloo Gobi, Navrang Korma, Butter Chicken, Lamb Vindaloo, Naan, Rice, Salads, Chutneys / Achars, Pistachio Ice Cream, Gulah Jamun, Fruits. And extra dishes on the menu: ONIONBHAJI, BOMBAY ALOO, DAL MAKHINI, VANILLA ICE-CREAM. For only 499/nett and special reduced prices on drinks. 076-286464 Ext 4.

THU

12 JAN

PIWC Meet & Greet Coffee January

New members are encouraged to join our monthly Meet & Greet Coffee Morning to find out more about our organization. It’s also a great opportunity to chat with a few members in a more casual setting over a cup of coffee. For more information, please contact Joan Watson – imm@loxinfo.co.th or Renate Hirte – hirtefamily@hotmail.com.

SAT

21 JAN

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

TUE

3 JAN

Tropical Sound Wave Festival Dream Beach Club presents Tropical Sound Wave music festival with spectacular line-up of artists from around the world. Live performance of different genres, improvising right in front of your eyes will introduce you to a new sounds presented by upcoming rock stars : “Lampbl Orchestra” collaborating together soloists of a world famous “Almaty Symphony Orchestra”, accompanied by Yuliya Zinovieva mezzosoprano, Elijah Rock a famous American Jazz singer performing together with “The Music Matters” Trio, virtuoso pianist Ivan Sharapov and Alex Greg exclusive violinist of modern styles mixing it up with house DJ along with fire shows, tropical dancers and many more on the plate will leave you hungry for more. RSVP: +66805382522, reservations@maikhaodream.com

EVERY DAY

Orchestra On The Rock A unique collaboration of geniuses of classical and the best rock musicians performing together on one stage at Le Meridian Phuket Beach Resort in the concert Orchestra On The Rock. World’s best violinist leading internationally famouse orchestra. Marat Bisengaliev & soloists of Almaty Symphony Orchestra we “brake rules” with Rock Band LAMPЫ ORCHESTRA - new sound by up-and-coming rockstars. Support: Yuliya Zinovieva - the voice of the evening mezzo-soprano and duo INCANTO. Dress Code: Elegant Smart.

Entrance fee 2500 THB includes welcome drink and canape. We promise to deliver tickets to your doorstep: RSVP: +66805382522. reservations@maikhaodream.com

@thephuketnews

Fire&Ice Annual Fundraising 2017 Fire & Ice Annual Fundraising 2017 by Phuket International Women’s Club (PIWC). Firefly at The Pavilions, Cherngtatey. Ticket THB 2,500 includes grand buffet and one beverage. Ticket and info at info@piwcphuket.com

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

Themed Seafood Buffet Dinner Delicious Excitement with Themed Buffet Dinners: Enjoy our themed dinners at The Bistro for only THB950++. Mon, Wed: Pacific Rim. Tue, Thu, Sat: Seafood BBQ. Fri:: Southeast Asian Flavors. Sun: Mediterranean Flavors. The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. Reservations: The Bistro at Millennium Resort Patong, fb@millenniumpatong.com, 076 601 999.

7 Nights, 7 Themed Dinners at Rim Talay Make each night unique! Enjoy our themed dinners with the cool sea breeze. World of Curries @790THB++, Thai & International Buffet @790THB++, Seafood Night @980THB++, Ribs Wing & Rings @770 THB++, Butchers Night @market price, Surf & Turf @950 THB++, Thai Seafood Gala @980 THB++ Only in December (except 24 and 31 December), show the promo code: PMRTPN2016/2 to receive a 10% discount! For reservations, email rimtalay@amari.com or call 076 340106-14 #8027.

Phuket International Boatshow PIMEX 2017 The 14th edition of PIMEX will take place at the award-winning Royal Phuket Marina on Phuket’s east coast. The 2016 show attracted over 5,000 quality visitors. An annual event since 2003, the show is firmly fixed on the calendar as Phuket’s biggest trade show.

Broadcasting Live89.5 FM live from the show each day. Entry is free. Come along and register and get a chance to win prizes. Not to be missed! For more details visit www.phuketboatshow.com Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News.

La Gritta’s Discovery Menu Celebrate A Rocking Christmas Christmas Set Menu from 2,000 THB per person.

Special retail promotions available from Dec 1st 2016 - 6th Jan 2017. For more infomation call 076 366 381.

Take your taste buds on a culinary tour through some of the finest Italian flavours. Chef Patrizia has created a six-course discovery menu consisting of the appetiser, main course and dessert, priced at 1,590 THB++ per person. The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. Reservations, lagritta@ amari.com, 076 292 697.

26 TIME OUT

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 1. The Blue House is the residence of the president of which Asian country?

2. The EU Flag consists of a circle of how many golden stars?

3. What is the main ingredient of the traditional Welsh delicacy laverbread?

4. What is the only rock that floats in water?

5. Which ancient measurement was approximately 18 inches?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

52. “Heartbreak Across House” writer 1. From square one 53. Numbskull 5. Marketplaces 55. Like 11. Cooking meas.

56. Heading to bed 14. Pastry dough 62. Special ___ 15. Multiple car 63. Channeled collisions 64. Not e’en once 16. Arthur Godfrey 65. Sri Lanka export played it 17. TV movie starring 66. Foreign dignitaries Dick Van Dyke 20. Prospector’s need 67. Glimpse .

21. Pantheon Down member 1. Behind 22. ___-friendly 2. Fed. agency 23. Dope 26. Blue moon, e.g. 3. Animals with long memories?

28. Bangkok native 29. In a grand manner 4. Feminine 5. Visa statement 32. Performed an abbr. after-dinner chore 6. Chinese tree 34. Timber wolf 7. This and that 35. Keep out 8. Divide 38. During these 9. See 5-Down modern times 10. Watering hole 41. Dance bit 11. Rwandan 42. Dungeonlike people 43. Closed in on 12. ___ shooting 44. Secured with a 13. Matthew of rope “Friends” 46. Distinctive quality 18. Warbler Yoko 47. Classify 19. Wrath 50. Takeoffs

23. New York ___ 24. Some dinnerware 25. Tar 26. Gift-wrap decorations 27. Separate 30. Unreliable 31. Diversion 33. Where to get down 35. Peers of kingdoms 36. Go-between 37. Advises 39. ___ test 40. NBC news magazine 44. Stadium 45. Kind of egg 47. English race place 48. Get into ___ 49. Hot sauce 51. Hoosegow 53. Tropical fever 54. Position 57. Pique 58. ___ de guerre 59. Plugs 60. With it, once 61. Sample

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) South Korea; 2) 12; 3) Seaweed; 4) Pumice; 5) A cubit

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

December 30, 1977 For the second time, Ted Bundy escapes from his cell in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

8

years in a row is how long the word “whatever” has been voted the most annoying.

December 31, 1857 Queen Victoria chooses Ottawa, then a small logging town, as the capital of Canada.

19

US States allow teachers to spank children in classrooms.

January 1, 153 BC Roman consuls begin their year in office.

41

January 2, 1967 Ronald Reagan, who later became the 40th President of the United States, (Jan 20, 1981 – Jan 20, 1989) is sworn in as Governor of California.

per cent of scuba divers experience dental pain, broken fillings or loose crowns while diving due to pressure changes and jaw clenching.

5,800

people every year end up in hospital in the US from injuries sustained while decorating their house for the Christmas holidays.

January 3, 1771 American General George Washington defeats British General Lord Cornwallis at the Battle of Princeton.

258.51 billion

US dollars were given to charity by individual Americans In 2014 – more than twice the amount given by corporations and foundations combined.

Source: Uberfacts

This week in history

January 4, 1542 King Charles I of England sends soldiers to arrest members of Parliament, commencing England’s slide into civil war.

Sunset over the bay, Krabi. Photo by Claude Schmidlin Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket?

Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

January 5, 1993 The oil tanker MV Braer runs aground on the coast of the Shetland Islands, spilling 84,700 tons of crude oil.

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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LEGAL SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

MOVING SERVICES

OTHER

STORAGE Reserve Your Storage Space

Call 076 29 29 09

or visit mystorageasia.com

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

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

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FISHING SERVICE

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Buy&Sell

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ACTIVITIES, GROUPS Sign up today for a discount code

The new website for Tiya’s hammocks is ready! Visit now at: native-habitat.com and subscribe for a discount code to use for online shopping. Tiya: hammockphuket@yahoo.com, 076 631 841.

BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE Boating deal of the year: 7.5m baht (reduced from 10m baht)

Due to serious health reasons, the owner must part with his beloved 80’ tour boat. New wiring throughout, power outlets, transformer and voltage meters. New upholstery throughout bar and entertainment area. Engines & generator fully reconditioned & serviced. All maintained to European standards. Ideal boat for quality day trip business. beachsando1@gmail.com, 080 695 3933.

Steel boat for sale

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

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Business for sale

Phuket Car Rentals and Internet Shop is for sale as the owner has to return to his country to obtain a pension. The cost is US $27,000 and includes 4 cars, 2 scooters, 1 motorbike and 8 computers. Rawai is a pleasant area to live. The shop has pleasant accommodation upstairs. Ownership allows a work permit and 1 year visas. 0987075945, bobskibarnett@gmail.com

Beauty Salon with Equipment

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

REST-BAR-LOUNGE RAWAI BEACH

Beautiful decoration - Private terrace - Seaview - Sound system - Led lights - Air conditioned - Fully equipped - 400sqm - 2 levels - Parking - Ready for work: superstaronthebeach@ hotmail.com, 092 526 0222.

Looking for investor / partner

Looking for investor / partnership for Patong beach front location to start with Japanese and Indian restaurant.

Narin, narinpga@gmail.com, 081 826 9390.

Price reduced for quick sale

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Restaurant set up for sale

A fully equipped restaurant in the highly sought after Boat Avenue mall in Laguna.

Stainless steel kitchen, Wi-Fi, bar counter, service area. Ready to go in days. Email: jukeboxphuket@gmail.com, 081 090 1608.

CAR FOR SALE BMW 323i

323i. One owner since new. No accidents; excellent condition. 105,000km; cared for with BMW service. Full history available. 395,000THB, Thalang, Phuket, jrh1@me.com, 086 989 0919.

Convertible

Mercedes CLK 200 Cabriolet W-209 Brabus Package - seat 4.

Excellent condition and fun to drive.

37,400km. 1,199,000 Bht. Eng - Thai 094 695 3536 / 063 992 3226.

Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8G VVTI

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

No, not a bar or guesthouse, but a manufacturing business for wooden window blinds. le All the machinery and inventory of parts to Honda Jazz 2009 1500cc t sa n e be up and running in a matter of days. A very Urg Auto successful business in Phuket for over eight 57,000km. One owner since new. years. Price reduced to 2 mil Baht. Owner will partially Regularly serviced by Honda. Tax and finance. lamsden@phuketemail.com, 081 487 4812.

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

Looking for a Partner Investor

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

MEMBERSHIPS Life Time Family Membership

Blue Canyon: 750,000 THB includes 140,000 transfer fee.

Loch Palms: 425,000 THB includes 72,000 transfer fee.

Tanita, 094 695 3536 / 063 992 3226

MEMBERSHIPS Loch Palm Golf Membership

Lifetime Loch Palm Golf membership for sale. ฿485,000, the Loch Palm transfer fee of ฿72,000 will be shared equally between the buyer and seller. Contact J. Trenton Early, jtrenton.early@gmail.com

MOVING SERVICES Looking for Moving Company?

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

REAL ESTATE SERVICES Phuket real estate tour

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

WEBSITES, IT For Sale: hoteldealsphuket.com

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

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PROPERTY FOR SALE House for sale

Rawai Samki 3 with Chanote. 2 Bed, 2 Bath, big living room, 1 storage, 1 laundry. House 160 sqm, land 280 sqm. 3MB. rico9963@hotmail.com, 083 640 9041.

House for sale

Good location in Chalong area. 3 Bedroom 2 Bathroom, 200 sqm.

House on 800 sqm plot. Including furniture, 084 745 5546.

Pool Villa Mission Heights

villa with salt pool, 330qm 3 bed 3.5 bath, 900qm chanote, owner finance, near mission hill golf 2km.

6km PIA, 8km airport 087 060 8400.

16.900.000. picharly@gmail.com

Apartment

1.65mill. 60qm 2bed 2bath + 30qm balcony, liv-kitchen, 3 a/c, quality doors/wind., Dream Village near mission hill golf, tel: 0873838709.

Land for sale in Saku - Phuket

1 to 5 Rai. Chanote. 10 min south to the airport. Nice quiet location near Naiyang - Naithon Beach. Fixed price only 2.6Mil Baht per Rai. Kanchana, kanchanajit09@gmail.com, 087 076 6016.

X2 Vibe Phuket Bangtao

Welcoming investor with high yield return 21%. X2 is a privately owned chain of design hotel based out of Thailand 4.59 m. Hot deal Pro, Full Fur, Irene, 139 Soi Cherngtalay 16, Srisoonthron Rd., Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket, sales@oceanstone phuket.com, 095 037 8150.

Condominium for sale

Foreign Freehold 150 SQM Huge Ground Floor 2 Bed 2 Bath condo.

150m to Nai Harn Beach. 8.2M THB. paulover@hotmail.com, 089 875 4173.

Apartment Country Golf Club House

One room with kitchen in main house Country Club. 6th floor with balcony 75sqm. Membership in Country Club included. Price 3.3 Million THB. Contact pzw@gmx.at Per Dompert, 086 043 4315 (English and German)

HERE IS THE FUTURE. 17 RAI FOR SALE

Between Kok Loi and Thai Muang, 38 km from the airport, we are selling a beautiful peice of land with 2 new houses. A perfect place for artists or a sport resort.

The land is more than 17 Rai, full of old trees, with a big private lake and located directly behind the river. Chanote title. With a canoe it takes 20 min to paddle to the sea.

A great opportunity for a fair price. Price 9.5M, Yupin, residler@gmail.com, 081 817 4805 Thai, Eng, Deutsch.

PROPERTY FOR SALE New Sea View Villa

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

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

Over 600 Sqm usable building area, 3 bedrooms, guest apartment, maid quater, games room, 10 metre infinity swimming pool, roof terrace and breath taking views. Can be ready to move in within 8 weeks and still can be customized to the wishes of new owner. For sale at only 27.9 mill baht.

For viewing or more information please contact our sales director, Khun Montha on: 081 343 0777 or email: montha_phuket@yahoo.com

Beautiful Land in Rawai For Sale

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

Kay McDonnell

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

COMMUNITY

Land For Sale

Land for sale. Anuphas Golf Ville, Kathu. 81 sq wah. Golf course view of Phuket CC. Quiet village, convenient location. E-mail for details Contact David, d1jarvis@hotmail.com

Outstanding Beach Front Pool Villa

A rare opportunity to purchase a 4 bedroom beachfront villa in a 5* resort at The Village Coconut Island.

A “snip� at 22m THB. Contact email aadmo@btinternet. com, Somjit, aadmo@btinternet.com, 081 9791945. thephuketnews

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CLASSIFIEDS 33

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Buy&Sell

PROPERTY FOR SALE Prime Land near Natai Beach

13 Rai. Prime flat land, Full Chanote. 5 mins to beautiful Natai Beach, 5 mins to Khok Kloi, 20 mins from Phuket Airport. Close to temples, beach & mountain views, perfect for large property or subdivide for development.

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

Ten Room Villa for sale

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

House for Sale

3 bed, 2 bath, living/dining, Farang & Thai kitchens. Back/both sides under cover. Water fall/relax area.

BBQ area under cover/car port. 4 aircons/7 fans. Very private, close to all services, 500 meters from Heroines Monument. 4.9 mil. o.n.o. Contact Randy. Email randyalltime@gmail.com

LAND NEAR WATERFALL FOR SALE

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

House for Sale

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

Sale by owner Apartment ‘The Pearl of Naithon’ Leasehold

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

MAI KHAO LAND

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

Waterfront Condominium

The Cleat Condo, residence project in Krabi Boat Lagoon Marina. Price 3-9MB, size 37-119 Sq.M., 1 or 2 bedroom, marina view. For rent/sale. marketing@phuketpropertytrip.com @thephuketnews

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PROPERTY FOR RENT Large apartment for rent

For family 130 spm. in Rawai. 2 Bedrooms, 1 bathroom, kitchen, fully furnished. Available from Dec 2016. For 1 year contract 29,000Baht/month. Contact Duangjai, 080 146 1393.

Bedroom in shared house-Kathu

Near Kajonkiet Inter school, Loch Palm, close to Central, Big C, Tesco. Inclusive:WiFi, water, electricity, use of kitchen, washing machine. Month by month agreement with some deposit. Bedsheet + pillows provided.

4000 THB/month, 089 600 0041.

PRIME LAND+BLDG @CHALONG PIER

Seaview Building with land 50m to Chalong Pier for Rent/Long Term Lease.

1.5Rai+bldg. Ideal for Hotel, Community Mall, Restaurants Wirote, 081 931 5189.

House For sale or rent Baan Manik (Cherngtalay)

Attractive 3 bed, 2 bathroom detached house for sale or rent. Set in quiet surroundings but with easy access to Laguna, Boat avenue, PIA, airport, Surin, Bangtao and Layan beaches. The property boasts many additional features including, Auto-gate, Western styled kitchen, security system, natural stone floors, imported ceiling fans, 12volt LED Garden Lighting and air-con throughout.

Asking 4.5 Million Negotiable Rent 25K Per Month Fully furnished or 20K per month unfurnished. 081 9686 051.

CHALONG BEACH FRONT LAND

Beach Front 40m. Long and short term. 1 and half rai(600sq.m.) Mr. Narin, narinpga@gmail.com, 081 826 9390.

Family Pool Villa Rawai

4 Bedroom 4 bathroom 5,000 Baht per night/3 bedroom 3 bathroom 4,000 Baht per night. Quality Furnishings. Contact: rawaihillvillasphuket @gmail.com or 091 654 6249.

Apartment for rent

Quality 1 Bedroom serviced apartment 65sqm for rent. Central Patong.

Short or long term. For details email ianscondo21@gmail.com

Vassana Residence. Rawai

Fully furnished 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom. WiFi and cable TV included in price. 160M.S. in size. Jacuzzi in each Apartments. BBQ area on the roof. Contact vassana.residence@gmail.com Art, Rawai / NaiHarn, Eng.087 882 9604.

PROPERTY FOR RENT Kata Western Apartment

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

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

Kathu Condo forSale/Rent

36 Sqm Fully Furnished with Pool & Fitness. Rent start 9,000 monthly.

Close to Patong, Central Festival Phuket and Prince of Songkla University. Lily Line ID: 0841094466, flyfreelily@gmail. com, 084 109 4466.

Office/Shop for Rent

Ground Floor space with excellent positioning on Chalong Pier Road.

For more information, please call 081 416 4177 or 076 381 341.

Two condos for sale/rent

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

ROOM FOR RENT

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

Kamala Villa for rent

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

Villas & Apts Rent-Chalong

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

34 PROPERTY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

ed uc e ed ic R Pr

FREEHOLD CONDO IN RESORT, Kalim

FREEHOLD CONDO, Surin

Good location towards the ocean in Kalim. Charming resort style apartment with large communal pool.

Priced nearly 35 % lower than other units, a motivated seller has 4 units on offer in this newly completed development. Beautiful communal rooftop with gym and views over Bang Tao.

1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 64 sqm

4,950,000 THB

FREEHOLD MOUNTAIN VIEW VILLA, Kamala 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 320 sqm

Located on a steep hillside in Kamala facilitating great views over the city.

Pavilion style 4-bed in a well-managed and private 9 villa estate.

Studio, 1 bathroom, 27 sqm

2,700,000 THB

CHARMING STUDIO APARTMENT, Layan Studio Bedroom, 1 bathroom, 57 sqm

This leasehold 2-bedroom offers a spacious terrace, open and bright. The colonial style development is very well maintained with lots of greenery, swimming pool, kid’s pool and outdoor seating areas. Must-see development.

2,500,000 THB

R e Pr duc ic ed e

13,500,000 THB

B e in st Su Va rin lue

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FREEHOLD MOUNTAIN VIEW VILLA, Naithon 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 389 sqm

15,900,000 THB

Nestled in the valley between Naithon and Nai Yang Beach, this high quality pool villa has a private pool on a sizeable land plot. Just a few minutes from Phuket International airport

AFFORDABLE POOL VILLA , Chalong 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 165 sqm

4,900,000 THB

This charming 2-bed pool villa has a small private pool. Well-decorated and located within a quiet community.

FREEHOLD PENTHOUSE, Surin 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 262 sqm

Measuring 162 sqm internally with a wonderful roof terrace with Jacuzzi, BBQ and seating area. Just a short walk from Bang Tao and Surin Beach, the condominium has a proven track-record of netting 1.1m THB through rentals.

11,500,000 THB

LEASEHOLD LAKE VIEW CONDO, LAYAN 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 117 sqm

This leasehold 2-bedroom offers a spacious terrace, open and bright. The colonial style development is very well maintained with lots of greenery, swimming pool, kid’s pool and outdoor seating areas. Must-see development.

6,900,000 THB

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

PROPERTY 35

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

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LAKEFRONT VILLA IN GREAT CONDITION, Laguna 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 490 sqm

35,000,000 THB

Situated on a lakefront corner plot of 1200 sqm, this classic Laguna has recently undergone full cosmetic repair. Terrific location near Boat Avenue and the Bang Tao Bay. Must-See property!

IMPRESSIVE SEA VIEW APARTMENT, Ao Po

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 110 sqm

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

Well-managed estate.

7,500,000 THB

ed uc M ed 1 R by 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 200 sqm

12,465,000 THB

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

FREEHOLD 3-BED DUPLEX, Bang Tao 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 232.8 sqm

9,800,000 THB

Unique opportunity to own a townhouse style condominium under a freehold title. Great location by between main shopping amenities and Bang Tao Beach with the new Catch Beach Club a few minutes away.

TOP FLOOR SPACIOUS APARTMENT, Kamala 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 115 sqm

Surrounded by jungle and a waterfall 100 meters away, this apartment features vaulted ceilings with skylight windows. Wonderful of the common area pool and mountains. Reduced from 4.5m THB to facilitate a quick sale.

ICONIC SEAVIEW APARTMENT, Kata 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 334 sqm

Situated within one of Phuket’s most luxurious and iconic seafront development, this 4-bedroom sky duplex offers the highest quality finishings.

to t ew ke N ar m

2-STOREY TOWNHOUSE WITH PRIVATE POOL, Laguna

WELL MAINTAINED POOL VILLA , Nai Harn

Conveniently located between Bang Tao Beach and main shopping amenities, this good quality townhouse offers a private pool. 24/7 security and management services provided.

Well-appointed villa in a gated community. Ideal location near shops and restaurants and a 5 minute drive from Nai Harn Beach. Good potential for a high rental return.

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 256 sqm

8,900,000 THB

@thephuketnews

3,200,000 THB

65,000,000 THB

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CHARMING 3-BED WITH BIG GARDEN, Chalong

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 210 sqm

7,400,000 THB

36 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

Phuket debut for XTerra Off Road Triathlon 2017 - Road to Maui set for April

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Run: #1613 Saturday December 31 Run Start Time: 3:30pm Hares: JC Location: Kathu - In front of JC’s house Directions: Coming from Patong just before the divided roadway begins at the bottom of Patong hill on the Kathu side turn right into the soi beside the Family Mart.

Continue on for about 500 metres and when you reach the T-junction turn right.

Continue another 300m and turn left at the abandoned elephant camp on your right.

Coming from Chalong head towards Patong. Just past the Kathu Go-Kart track make a left turn at the end of the divided roadway onto the soi beside the Family Mart and continue as above.

Bus Pickup Schedule: Kamala: 2:15pm Patong: 2:45pm More info: phuket-hhh.com

TRIATHLON Matt Pond editor3@classactmedia.co.th

F

ollowing the success of the XTerra Samui event in September, the Xterra Off Road Triathlon is set to make a come back to Thailand this time with the debut of its Asia Pacific Championship event in Phuket.

Active Management Asia will host the next Off Road Triathlon in Phuket on April 1, 2017, a race that will offer a great location, beautiful beaches along with amazing, challenging trails.

The XTerra Phuket event will again offer something for everyone with Triathlon Sprint and Standard, Duathlon and Multi-Distance Trail Run race categories all on offer.

And as always, the triathlon will include an ocean swim, mountain bike and trail run.

Full details of the course will be released in lead up to the event in 2017.

XTerra is world renowned for its series of cross triathlon

Competitors hit the beach in September’s XTerra Samui.

Photo: xterrathailand.com races, three-sport races which include swimming, mountain biking, and trail running. The XTerra Off Road Triathlon race series is considered to be the world championship of the sport.

Professional triathletes are competing for impressive prize money purses, while amateurs race for national titles and coveted slots to the

World Championship held in Hawaii.

XTerra gives endurance athletes from around the world a chance to race in some of the most diverse, spectacular, and challenging natural environments on the planet – from tropical jungles to snow-covered mountains.

The XTerra Asia Pacific World Tour Championship

countries are The Philippines, Korea, Japan, Saipan, New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia and Thailand.

XTerra is also offering adventure races and trail running events which make the brand the global leader in off-road sports.

XTerra is a big family with events organised all over the world.

The Phuket News will keep you posted for developments and when the full registration is open for launch – to note the event will be part of the Asia Pacific Championship, collecting points and prize money which will be released for 2017.

Registration and more info http://xterrathailand.com

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

SPORT 37

Somyot versus Kiatisak

Is it really a crisis, or more a case of much ado about nothing?

FOOTBALL Bangkok Post editor3@classactmedia.co.th

W

hen Thailand dashed the Indonesian dream in the second leg of the Suzuki Cup Final to land the Holy Grail of Southeast Asian football for a record fifth time on Dec 17, the aftermath to the triumph wasn’t what was expected.

The 2-0 victory over Indonesia in Bangkok – only three days after losing the first leg 2-1 in Bogor – was a commendable effort by all counts but it was expected.

To be honest, despite the one-goal deficit after the first leg, the record fifth Cup was also expected as there is no doubting the Thai domination of the most popular sport of Southeast Asia.

The hesitancy shown by Football Association of Thailand (FAT) president Somyot Poompunmuang in handing an extension to national team coach Kiatisak Senamuang was also expected since no-

FAT chief Somyot Poompunmuang (left) and Kiatisak Senamuang. Photo: Bangkok Post one from the FAT had ever hinted that the renewal was a sure-fire bet.

Still the whole thing took an unexpected twist as Kiatisak became the rallying cry and soon mayhem ensued in which words of the purported warring factions – the coach and the association – were completely ignored.

The man whose job became a powder keg for no apparent reason himself sounded perplexed when he said: “I

don’t understand why certain people are trying to suggest that I am in conflict with FAT president Somyot. We do not have any conflict. We should celebrate the Suzuki Cup win instead of making such a groundless suggestion.”

With the cont roversy still raging on, Kiatisak was quoted as saying he is continuing to plan for Thailand’s remaining five matches in Asia’s final qualifying round for the 2018 World Cup as

Young Stamp seen as underdog to Ioka BOXING T H A I L A N D’S STA M P Kiatniwat will enter the ring as the underdog when he takes on WBA flyweight champion Kazuto Ioka of Japan on New Year's Eve. The 18-year-old Thai challenger left for Osaka, Japan on Monday (Dec 26) in the hope of snatching the 112-pound belt from Ioka in the mandatory fight.

Stamp’s manager Taweesin Laosuwanwat said his boxer, who is the interim champion in the 112-pound division, was four pounds over the limit but would not have any problems in shedding the excess weight in time for the bout.

The biggest concern for Taweesin is Stamp’s lack of experience.

“I admit that at the age of 18, Stamp is less experienced than Ioka,” he said.

“And I am sure that Ioka’s punches are more powerful as well.” .

Asked about Stamp’s chances of taking home the belt, Taweesin said: “It will be 60-40 in favour of the Japanese.”

Stamp, who has trained for three months for the fight, @thephuketnews

Thailand’s Stamp Kiatniwat (right) during a training session. Photo: Hanif Hassan via Bangkok Post successfully defended his interim WBA flyweight title with a majority decision over Gregorio Lebron of the Dominican Republic in Bangkok in February.

The 27-year-old Ioka will be a much tougher opponent for the teenage Thai. The Japanese’s only loss in his professional career was against Thailand’s Amnat Ruenroeng in May 2014.

Ioka won the title from Juan Carlos Revoco of Argen-

tina in April last year and has successfully defended it three times so far. In his third title defence in July, he stopped Keyvin Lara of Nicaragua in the 11th round in Japan.

Ioka won three world titles before moving up to the flyweight class. He took the WBC minimumweight belt in November 2011, claimed the WBA minimumweight title in June 2012 and six months later, landed the WBA lightflyweight crown.

well as the upcoming 2019 Asian Cup. Somyot, on his part, vented his frustration by saying: “I have never said that I won’t renew Kiatisak’s contract.”

The only apparent reason for causing the commotion could be the way in which Somyot handled the issue.

However, one can’t help but admire the swiftness with which the former National Police Chief and the current FAT president has

mastered the art of making politically savvy U-turns in just 10 months.

“If the coach does a good job, there is no reason for me to make changes,” the FAT chief said.

However, this statement was an attempt at damage control as in an earlier outburst, Somyot had queried: “I have not yet made a decision.

Do we want to move forward from the Asean level? If we want this, there would have to be changes.”

The whole issue being so hotly debated in the national press is honestly a non-issue.

The key aspect that everyone – Somyot and his critics included – is ignoring is that a coach is only as good as his team.

In fact, it will hardly matter who takes over the reins of this squad next year.

Thailand are scheduled to play their next two Group B matches of their World Cup bid against Asian football powerhouses Saudi Arabia on March 23 and Japan on March 28.

Do we really expect this

bunch to turn back the tide in a one-month span after losing four out of its first five matches with only one draw to savour in the first half of their campaign and make it to Russia 2018?

The real issue lies in Somyot’s query: Do we want to move forward from the Asean level?

Any honest Thai football fan will answer “yes” and this only leads to another important question: “How?” It certainly can’t be done by putting the current team under a big-name coach and paying him a princely sum to only to see the current set of national team players mark an improvement of five to 10 per cent and still fall well short of all expectations.

The solution lies in getting someone with experience, knowledge and the needed smarts and let him build a team from the scratch. Give him a free hand in both selecting and sacking young players, training them his way and eventually bracing them for the challenges of international football.

38 SPORT

Could Red Sox and Yankees be heading to London?

BASEBALL FANS IN LONDON COULD get a taste of one of Major League Baseball’s fiercest rivalries if suggestions of a Boston Red Sox-New York Yankees series in London pan out, US media reported last week.

The Boston Herald first reported the possibility, and Yankees president Randy Levine confirmed to MLB. com that there have been discussions on possible 2018 games between the teams in London.

“The Yankees have been at the forefront of suggesting that we bring the great game of baseball to London,” Levine told MLB.com. “There have been some meaningful attempts to do so, and we are hopeful and confident that we can play there soon. Playing the Red Sox in London would be a unique and special event.”

Red Sox president Sam Kennedy told the website that there was “nothing to the story at this point” but added that the Red Sox “would love to do it.”

AFP

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

Russians face action over tampered Sochi samples OLYMPICS AFP editor3@classactmedia.co.th

T

he International Olympic Committee has launched an inquiry into 28 Russians suspected of tampering with doping samples at the 2014 Sochi Winter Games in a new blow to Russia’s efforts to redeem its name.

While President Vladimir Putin again denied any state backing for the mass doping revealed by investigator Richard McLaren, the IOC has also ordered new testing of all samples from Russians at Sochi, the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games and the 2012 London Olympics.

The IOC said disciplinary proceedings against the 28 were ordered following McLaren’s latest report for the World Anti-Doping Agency released on December 9.

McLaren has accused Russia of “state sponsored” doping, using the intelligence services to organise the swapping of samples at Sochi.

His latest report said that 1,000 Russian athletes in all sports took part in the doping system in which coffee and

Russia’s Athletics Federation was suspended by the IAAF in November 2015 after a bombshell WADA report accused the country of state-sponsored doping. Photo: Franck Fife/AFP salt were used to hide failures.

While the IOC did not name any of the 28 athletes involved in Sochi, the International Ski Federation (FIS) said that six Russian cross-country skiers were involved.

The FIS said it had suspended the six and that Russia had withdrawn from holding the cross country World Cup finals in Tyumen in March.

With pressure mounting on Russia and international federations over the scandal, Russia last Thursday (Dec 22) withdrew from holding a biathlon World Cup event in Tyumen and junior world championships, while speed skating’s

governing body stripped it of a World Cup meet.

“The IOC is initiating disciplinary cases against all 28 athletes for whom there is evidence of manipulation of one or more of their urine samples that were collected at the Olympic Winter Games Sochi 2014,” an IOC statement said.

McLaren found that 28 of the 95 samples his team studied had signs of “manipulation”, said the IOC. The 28 samples are now being re-analysed at the Lausanne Anti-Doping Laboratory for signs of banned substances.

“This is the immediate follow-up to Professor McLaren’s

report,” said IOC president Thomas Bach.

“The IOC will go beyond the findings of the (McLaren) report by re-analysing all the samples of all the Russian athletes who participated in the Olympic Winter Games Sochi 2014 as well as all those who participated in the Olympic Games London 2012,” he added.

Twenty-seven Russian athletes have already been sanctioned by the IOC as a result of re-testing of some samples from the 2008 Beijing Games and London.

All Russian samples from the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games are also to be re-tested,

the IOC said.

The Russian government has denied any official involvement in the doping. But former sports minister and current Deputy Prime Minister Vitaly Mutko was banned from attending the Rio Olympics this year because of the controversy.

The Russian President was again pressed on state involvement in the doping at his end of year press conference last Friday (Dec 23) before the IOC made its latest announcement.

“In Russia there never was – it is simply impossible and we will do everything for this never to be the case – a state doping system and support for doping,” Putin said.

“We have, like any other country, problems with this and we need to recognise that.

Recognising this, (we need) to do everything for there to be no doping. To that end we must closely cooperate with the International Olympic Committee, WADA and other international organisations. And we will do this,” Putin declared.

“We need to rid sport as well as culture of politics because sport and culture are meant to unite people, not divide them,” the Russian leader added.

Acciona returns to Dakar Rally with electric car RALLYING SPANISH ENERGY FIRM Acciona said on Monday (Dec 26) that it will compete in the Dakar Rally next month in Latin America for the third straight year with the only electric vehicle of the gruelling off-road race.

“Next January in Asuncion (Paraguay) we will once again cross the starting line of

the Dakar, and we will again be the only zero emissions vehicle,” the company said in a statement.

“We compete in Dakar 2017 with an electric vehicle because we believe 100 per cent in the potential of renewable energy,” it added on the Facebook page of its Dakar Rally team.

Some 316 vehicles, including 83 cars and 146 motorbikes, are registered for the 39th Dakar Rally, which will be staged

over nearly 9,000 kilometres from January 2-14 in Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay.

The race will set off from the Paraguayan capital of Asuncion, with race sporting director Marc Coma promising “the toughest edition in the history of South American rally-raiding”.

Acciona entered its car in the 2015 Dakar Rally, making it the first zero-emissions vehicle to compete in the event, but it

pulled out after just three days due to a navigation system malfunction.

The Team Acciona car, which features a lithium battery pack that is supplemented by solar panels, was disqualified from the 2016 Dakar Rally after it failed to make it to the start line for the 11th stage on time.

Founded in 1997, Acciona focuses on the development and management of renewable energy projects and infrastruc-

Driver Ariel Jatton (left) and co-driver Gaston Daniel Scazzuso of Argentina pose inside their Acciona Eco Power ahead of the 2016 Dakar Rally on January 1. Photo: AFP ture around the world.

It posted a net profit of $364 million (B13.11 billion) during the first nine months of

the year, more than double it made during the same period last year.

AFP

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

SPORT 39

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Conte focused on title, not record

MONTHLY SPONSOR

MAIN SPONSOR

The overall competition winner receives a two day/one night private fishing charter to Racha Island on board Wahoo Yacht Charters Phuket’s Reel Blue. Total prize value: B180,000 The monthly competition winner for December 2016 will receive a B3,000 voucher to spend at any of the island's Two Chefs outlets.

EPL PREDICTIONS MONTHLY STANDINGS 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

gamagan Gracie The Red Card Gang Aays LateStart

OVERALL STANDINGS 35 34 33 32 32

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

The Red Card Gang scottkip chook Sidwell Guduka carst

107 106 103 103 102

English Premier League 2016 - 2017 1 2 3 4 5 6

Chelsea’s Antonio Conte gestures from the touchline during their game against Bournemouth on Boxing Day (Dec 26). Photo: Glyn Kirk/AFP

A

ntonio Conte insisted his focus is on the Premier League title and not seeing his Chelsea side set a new record of successive league victories.

The 3-0 defeat of Bour-

FOOTBALL AFP editor3@classactmedia.co.th

Live Sports TV Schedule *Times may be subject to change

SPORT

START STOP

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

Friday December 30 Cricket

06:00

13:00

Test Match 2, MCG

Australia v. Pakistan, Day 5

Cricket

13:50

00:00

Test Match 1, Pt Eliz

South Africa v. Sri Lanka, Day5

Saturday December 31 Rugby Union 20:55 Soccer Soccer

19:15

23:00

Aviva Premiership

Bath v. Exeter

21:15

SPFL

Rangers v. Celtic

22:00

00:00

EPL

Man United v. Middlesbrough

00:30

02:30

EPL

Liverpool v. Man City

22:00

00:00

EPL

Chelsea v. Stoke

22:00

00:00

EPL

Leicester v. West Ham

22:00

00:00

EPL

Swansea v. Bournemouth

Sunday January 1 Rugby Union 20:25 Soccer

22:30

Aviva Premiership

Sale v. Bristol

20:30

22:30

EPL

Watford v. Tottenham

23:00

01:00

EPL

Arsenal v. Crystal Palace

19:30

21:30

EPL

Middlesbrough v. Leicester

22:00

00:20

EPL

Sunderland v. Liverpool

22:00

00:00

EPL

Man City v. Burnley

22:00

00:00

EPL

Everton v. Southampton

22:00

00:00

EPL

West Bromwich v. Hull

13:50

00:00

Test 2 - Cape Town

South Africa v. Sri Lanka, Day 1

Monday January 2 Soccer

Cricket

@thephuketnews

7 8 9

nemouth on Monday (Dec 26) set a new club record of 12 straight league wins, one short of Arsenal’s single-season mark from 14 years ago.

Victor y over Stoke at Stamford Bridge this weekend will set up the possibility of Conte’s side breaking the record at Tottenham Hotspur.

Conte, though, says the only thing that concerns him is the impact on the table that shows Chelsea clear in the top spot.

“If you ask me I hope to continue winning until the end of the season but, for sure, it is not easy,” said Conte.

“I am pleased to see my players with great concentration and focus, with great will to fight and continue in this way.

“To win 12 games in a row is not easy in this league.

“It’s a fantastic run but it’s important to continue that now.

“For me, it’s important only for the table.

“With these 12 wins in a row we took 36 points and our table position is fantastic now.

It’s important only for this.

“I always thought that

the record is not important if at the end you don’t reach something important in your championship.”

Ped ro set Chelsea on course for victory with a 24th-minute opener before Eden Hazard added the second from the penalty spot four minutes into the second half and Pedro added the third in injury time.

Victor y was achieved without suspended duo Diego Costa and N’Golo Kante and Conte believes this only increased the scale of his side’s achievement and will be noted by their main rivals.

“I think today we sent a good message,” said Conte.

“In general because I think that a lot of people waited to see if, without two really important players, Costa and Kante, we could lose points in this game.

“It didn’t happen, I am pleased for this, because I can count on all my players in the squad. I try in every game to make the best decision for the team without looking at the faces.”

Conte opted to employ Hazard as a central striker,

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Team

MP W

D

L

F

A GD Pts

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

18 18 18 18 17 18 18 17 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18

1 4 3 4 6 6 5 6 5 4 4 3 6 2 6 5 4 2 3 3

2 2 3 3 2 3 6 5 7 8 8 9 7 10 8 9 10 12 12 12

38 45 39 39 29 27 23 17 23 22 23 23 20 17 16 23 29 16 21 14

11 21 20 19 12 18 21 16 22 30 32 31 28 28 20 31 33 31 41 39

15 12 12 11 9 9 7 6 6 6 6 6 5 6 4 4 4 4 3 3

27 24 19 20 17 9 2 1 1 -8 -9 -8 -8 -11 -4 -8 -4 -15 -20 -25

46 40 39 37 33 33 26 24 23 22 22 21 21 20 18 17 16 14 12 12

Premier League prediction competition scores and league table correct at time of going to press. forcing 23-year-old Belgian international forward Michy Batshuayi to continue his wait for a first league start since his £33 million (B1.46 billion) arrival from Marseille.

“After the Crystal Palace game I said we had a week to work to find the right solution, to play for the first time without Diego, without Kante,” said Conte.

“After a week of work, I decided to choose this type of solution, with Eden, Pedro and Willian. I’m pleased for the performance of these players.

“I think that Michy is a really good player, but a young player, he is trying to adapt to this league.

“I try to make the best decision for the team but I am sure that Michy could have the possibility to show his talent in the future.”

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe admitted the defeat had taught his side a valuable lesson.

“When you have Hazard, Pedro and Willian, counterattacking with such pace it's difficult," said Howe.

“I think that was probably the thing where we fell short, on the ball we gave them too many times to get into those situations by not being tight enough or good enough on the ball in those situations.

“That’s something we take away from this game.”

Sport

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor3@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016

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RACE RECORD SMASHED Perpetual LOYAL breaks Sydney to Hobart time by almost five hours ‘Perpetual LOYAL’s’ remarkable time is 4 hours, 51 minutes, 52 seconds faster than the previous record set by Wild Oats XI in 2012. It is the 12th time since the inaugural race in 1945 that the record has been broken. Photo: Rolex

YACHTING AFP editor3@classactmedia.co.th

A

ustralian supermaxi Perpetual LOYAL smashed the race record by almost five hours to take line honours at the gruelling Sydney to Hobart race on Wednesday (Dec 28), after eight-time winner Wild Oats XI retired.

LOYAL, a long-time rival of favourite Wild Oats, put to bed her failure to finish the past two races when the 100-footer arrived at Hobart’s Constitution Dock in a record time of 1 day 13hrs 31mins 20secs.

“This is one for the true believers,” owner and skipper Anthony Bell told reporters at Hobart’s Constitution Dock after the yacht powered to the finish line at 20 knots.

“I don’t think anyone expected us to do well in this race, the bookies certainly didn’t.

“We raced one hell of a race,” he told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

His boat manager Brad Kellet told the organisers that LOYAL had pushed Wild Oats

to its limits.

“Someone had to crack,” he said. “That’s not our weather, it’s Wild Oats’ weather, but we put ourselves in a great position, so that when Oats retired, we had enough of a lead over the V70s and Scallywag to win.”

The new finish time for the 628-nautical-mile event was four hours and 51 minutes faster than the previous record of 1 day 18hrs 23mins 12secs set in 2012 by Wild Oats.

New Zealand’s Volvo 70 Giacomo – which hopes to be crowned overall winner, the handicap honours for the vessel that performs best according to size – finished second with a time of 1 day 15hrs 27mins 5secs.

“It was a bit of a downwind race, so it suited us,” said wine owner Jim Delegat.

“Still, we’re pretty surprised, it’s not often that a 70-footer can do this, get second over the line.”

Hong Kong businessman Seng Huang Lee’s entrant supermaxi Scallywag crossed the finish line about two minutes later, also easily beating the old record.

LOYAL had benefited from favourable winds that saw

‘Perpetual LOYAL’s’ owner and skipper Anthony Bell (left). Photo: Rolex

2016 LINE HONOUR RESULTS 1

Perpetual LOYAL

2

Giacomo

1 day, 15 hours, 27 minutes, 5 seconds

3

Scallywag

1 day, 15 hours, 29 minutes, 15 seconds

4

Black Jack

1 day, 20 hours, 9 minutes, 58 seconds

5

Beau Geste

1 day, 21 hours, 3 minutes, 34 seconds

1 day, 13 hours, 31 minutes, 20 seconds - record

PREVIOUS RECORD 2012

Wild Oats XI

1 day, 18 hours, 23 minutes, 12 seconds

RECORD RACE TIMES 2016

Perpetual LOYAL

1 day, 13 hours, 31 minutes, 20 seconds

2012

Wild Oats XI

1 day, 18 hours, 23 minutes, 12 seconds

2005

Wild Oats XI

1 day, 18 hours, 40 minutes, 10 seconds

1999

Nokia

1 day, 19 hours, 48 minutes, 2 seconds

1996

Morning Glory

2 days, 14 hours, 7 minutes, 10 seconds

1975

Kiola III

2 days, 14 hours, 36 minutes, 56 seconds

1945

(inaugural) Rani

SLOWEST WINNER

the race leaders tear down Australia’s east coast after departing Sydney Harbour on Monday (Dec 26).

The yacht was first into the open ocean followed by Scallywag and Wild Oats.

Wild Oats edged into the lead amid freshening northerly winds and looked well set to break its own record for the race, but in a bitter blow, its hydraulic keel control mechanism failed when it was in the middle of the Bass Strait.

Citing crew safety, skipper Mark Richards made the

call to retire from the race on Tuesday morning (Dec 27), with the yacht arriving at the town of Eden some 480 kilometres south of Sydney early Wednesday.

It was the second-straight year Wild Oats had to pull out from the bluewater classic, with a mainsail rip thwarting her ambitions in 2015.

The line honours instead went to America’s Comanche, which did not take part in this year’s contest.

But half the world-class crew of Comanche returned to

the Sydney to Hobart on board LOYAL, after Bell brought them in this year in a bid to become more competitive.

It was the second win for Bell, the head of an accountancy firm, who took out line honours in 2011 with Investec Loyal – the first time he sailed in the race.

He signalled his intent to move on after the win, saying he “won’t be back next year” and that he had something “new and hot” to do in sailing without elaborating.

The rest of the 80-odd

6 days, 14 hours, 22 minutes

fleet were due in Hobart over the following two days when handicap honours would be decided.

Cruising Yacht Club of Australia commodore John Markos said this year’s favourable conditions “will make it a pretty hard record to break”.

Storms are usually a regular hazard in the Sydney to Hobart, one of the world’s most challenging races. Six men died, five boats sank and 55 sailors were rescued in 1998 when a deep depression hit the Tasman Sea. thephuketnews