The Phuket News July 12, 2019

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FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

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Travelling artist paints mural with BanYa kids Bang Wad reservoir contains less water now than it did at the height of the water crisis on Apr 30 this year. Photo: Supplied

OFFICIALS READY TO SPLASH B227MN ON PRIVATE WATER SOURCES AS RESERVOIRS FAIL TO FILL The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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huket’s main water authorities are turning to smaller privately owned ponds and lakes to ensure water supply remains adequate as the island’s three main reservoirs are failing to fill due to this year’s diminished rainfall.

Worse, water is either pumped out of the reservoirs as fast as it arrives or doesn’t even make it to the reserves as water channels that flow into the reserves are sourced to directly feed water mains serving houses and businesses across the island.

As the government agency respon-

sible for ensuring that water reserves are adequate for the island’s needs, the Phuket Provincial Irrigation Office (PPIO) is seriously concerned.

PPIO Chief Somsawat Chaisinsod on Tuesday (July 9) declined to comment, directing The Phuket News to senior PPIO official Isara Anukul to explain the situation.

“The water levels in the main three reservoirs now is worrying. There is only enough water for about a month if we do not have substantial rain,” Mr Isara said on Tuesday.

Bang Wad reservoir in Kathu currently has 0.95 million cubic meters of water of its 10.2mn m3 capacity.

Of that, 0.27mn m3 is “dead stor-

age”, or water that cannot be used as it lays at the bottom of the lake, leaving 0.68mn m3 of usable water in the reservoir.

By PPIO estimates, at current usage rates that is enough to last just 25 days, he added.

In comparison, on April 30 at the height of the water crisis earlier this year – with the Army and local government agencies deploying emergency water supplies across the island – Bang Wad actually had more water than it does now. On that day, Bang Wad had 0.82mn m3 of water, calculated as enough to last 32 days at that time – while “reduced water pressure” water restrictions were

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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in force.

Those same water restrictions are not in effect now.

Likewise, Bang Neow Dam in Srisoonthorn, serving Cherng Talay and other nearby areas, currently contains about 0.65mn m3 of water of its 7.2mn m3 capacity, with 0.11mn m3 of “dead storage”, leaving just 0.54mn m3 of usable water, Mr Isara explained.

Again, at current usage rates, that is enough to last 33 days.

On April 30, Bang Neow had more water than it does now: 0.76mn m3, enough for 48 days.

The Klong Kratha reservoir in Chalong is a different story. It currently contains about 1.2mn m3 of…

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French angler and Malaysian team win big

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Ex-officials to be charged for construction graft > p5

PM Prayut tours Phuket

Declares Chalong Underpass open, reviews disaster response The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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rime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha visited Phuket on Monday (July 8) to preside over the official opening of the Chalong Underpass and the full-scale tsunami disaster-response exercise at the Deep Sea Port.

He also stopped by the Phuket Marine Biological Centre to check on the recovery of baby dugong Yamil, rescued in Krabi last week.

“Sawasdee, Bangkok,” is how the PM greeted officials and students at the official opening ceremony of the Chalong Underpass held at Muang Phuket School, south of Chalong Circle, on Monday morning.

He then quickly apologised for his confusion, saying that Bangkok and Phuket both had the same problem: traffic congestion.

“I am happy to preside over the opening ceremony for this underpass, which has been built to help resolve traffic problems,” he said.

“Two u nder passes in Phuket were initiated by previous governments, but completed during this administration,” PM Prayut said.

“The other three underpasses in Phuket were started

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha officially declared the Chalong Underpass open on Monday. Photo: PR Dept and finished during this administration,” he added.

T h e 350 - m e t r e lo n g Chalong Under pass, a B546mn-budget project more than three years and 11 months in the making, opened to traffic between May 31 and June 3 this year.

Also of note, the B500million underpass being built at the busy turn-off on Thepkrasattri Rd to head toward Phuket International Airport is expected to open in October.

Joining PM Prayut at the

event were Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith, Interior Minister Gen Anupong Paojinda, Defence Minister Gen Chaichan Changmongkon and Phuket Governor Phakaphong Tavipatana.

To mark the actual official opening of the Chalong Underpass, the special guests at the same time placed their hands on a plasma ball while a video of fireworks exploding was displayed on a screen behind them and the plaque over the underpass entrance

was mechanically unveiled.

The prime minister and his entourage also reviewed displays highlighting major development projects both planned and underway in order to resolve traffic problems in Phuket, including watching a video of Chalong Underpass through its various stages of construction and reviewing posters explaining the development of major and secondary roads by the Highways Department and the Phuket light-rail project.

PM Prayut then traveled to the PMBC at Cape Panwa to be updated on the recovery of the two rescued dugongs Mariam and Yamil, whose rescue from Krabi last week and their ongoing recovery has taken Thai social media sites by storm.

Their recoveries are now live-streamed 24 hours a day.

PM Prayut also presided over the full-scale disasterresponse exercise held at the Phuket Deep Sea Port at Ao Makham, which included air-sea rescues and the recovery of “victims” from heavily damaged buildings, with emergency-response teams called into action to provide immediate medical assistance.

The simulation was based on Phuket being struck by a tsunami that originated from an earthquake near the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, some 540km direct west of Phuket, where several minor earthquakes have occurred this year.

The exercise was part of the Integrated Disaster Management Exercise (IDMEx 2019) for disaster prevention and mitigation in the event of a tsunami disaster, explained Interior Minister Gen Anupong Paojinda, whose ministry also oversees the national Depart-

ment of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM).

IDMEx 2019 saw all six Andaman coast provinces – Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi, Ranong, Trang and Satun – carry out their own disasterresponse exercises, including tsunami-evacuation drills such as the one held in Patong on June 25.

“The government has given priority to systematic and unified emergency preparedness and response procedures, especially for tsunami disasters, which in 2004 saw the six coastal provinces of the Andaman Sea damaged by a tsunami,” Gen Anupong said.

“This caused a lot of loss of life and property, and impacted the economy and the mental state of the people,” he added.

“IDMEx 2019 is considered the first integrated national training in the preparation and response of a tsunami. The aim was to test the warning notification process and safe evacuation of people, the comprehensive management of the impact of the tsunami, and to build confidence among people and tourists in the potential and readiness of the government’s disaster management,” Gen Anupong explained.

(See Island Scene, page 17.)

Officials scramble to assure water supply as use continues unabated Continued from page 1 …water of its 4.2mn m3 capacity – enough for 148 days, as much of the southern end of the island was developed without access to mains water, leaving residents and businesses mostly dependent on well water and water trucks for supply.

On April 30, Klong Kratha contained 0.97mn m 3 of water, enough for about 139 days at the restricted water-usage rates.

Explaining the lack of water flowing into Bang Wad, Mr Isara said, “Right now we have stopped directing water from Klong Bangyai to refill the reservoir as the PWA [Phuket Waterworks Authority, the local government office responsible for distributing public water supply] needs it

in order to supply people across the island. We have agreed to let them do so.”

Phuket PWA Branch Manager Graisorn Mahamad is also very concerned.

“Right now Bang Wad reservoir is worrying me,” he said.

“There are a lot of factors affecting the level of water in Bang Wad. There has been little rainfall flowing into it, and the water we are intercepting [from Bangyai Canal] before it gets there is needed because people’s demand for water keeps increasing every year,” he added.

Questioned about the need to use the water from Bangyai Canal instead of letting it replenish the Bang Wad reservoir, Mr Graisorn said, “We have no choice right

now. We don’t have much water in Bang Wad.” “We have enough water for about a month,” Mr Graisorn confirmed, but remained confident that water supply will continue to as needed as his office scrambles to secure contracts with owners of private water sources to supplement what little supply the government reservoirs have.

However, he added, “If this [securing private water supply] doesn’t happen in time, I will have to decrease the water pressure in order to make reserves last.”

MONEY ON TAP The PWA has requested a budget of B227.34 million to splash out on paying private water suppliers, Mr Graisorn confirmed.

One private water-source owner is to be paid B94.5mn to supply 3,680m3 of water per day over a five-year contract to supplement water supply to areas usually served by the Bang Wad and Klong Kata reservoirs, he said.

One private water source owner is to be paid B9.34mn to supply 4,000m3 of water per day for 150 days to the same areas, he added.

The northwest coastal area will require more, Mr Graisorn confirmed.

“B109.3mn will be paid to the owner of a private water source near the Bangjo pump station, to supply 4,255m 3 of water per day. This project is a five-year contract,” he said.

“B6.2mn has been allocated to secure 200,000m3 of water from a

Bang Wad is now greener, and emptier, than it has ever been – including during the water crisis this year. Photo: Supplied private source also near the Bangjo pump station, but the details of that contract have not been confirmed yet,” Mr Graisorn added.

A further B8mn is to pay for 2,400m3 of water per day from Pru Jampa to also serve areas usually supplied by the Bangjo pump station, he said. thephuketnews

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Surin Beach to get lifeguards

OrBorTor President MaAnn secures ‘temps’ while waiting for Bangkok The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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rained, qualified lifeguards will be on patrol at Surin Beach by Monday (July 15), MaAnn Samran, Chief of the Cherng Talay Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor), has assured.

“Lifeguards will be on patrol at Surin Beach next week. The tentative start date is July 15 (Monday),” Mr MaAnn explained in a phone interview on Tuesday (July 9).

“There will be five lifeguards and a lifeguard team leader with five automated external defibrillator (AEDs), a jet-ski and other surf lifesaving equipment at their disposal,” he said.

“I have been told these lifeguards have two years’ experience working as lifeguards in Phuket and they have lifeguard training certifications. I don’t know which company they used to work for, but they are qualified to be lifeguards,” MaAnn assured.

The rush to hire the lifeguards follows a 52-year-old British national from Hong Kong drowning at Surin Beach last Wednesday (July 3) after being caught in a rip that dragged him away from shore.

The man’s 25-year-old son was rescued and rushed to hospital.

Baan Natacha Co Ltd lifeguards train while waiting for approval from Bangkok to begin patrolling Surin Beach.

The move to have the trained and equipped lifeguards available at such short notice is costing the OrBorTor about B170,000 for the first month, Mr MaAnn explained.

“I pressed this issue hard and it was agreed to approve the budget for this, but it will be a short-term arrangement only, month by month, and the lifeguards will be on patrol at Surin Beach only,” he said.

“If I didn’t have lifeguards [at

Surin Beach] as soon as possible, I would become the focus of blame and someone would hit me,” Mr MaAnn said.

The OrBorTor is forced to make temporary arrangements only as it must wait for the selection of the company to be hired under a government concession to provide full-time lifeguards at Surin and Bang Tao beaches to be resolved, Mr MaAnn explained.

Nine more accused of ‘seasteading’ C H A RGE S W I L L BE pressed against an additional nine suspects, among them seven Thais, one German and one person of an unknown nationality, for their alleged involvement in the illegal construction of a ‘seastead’ in Thai territorial waters in the Andaman Sea. People found guilty of owning seasteads, or permanent settlements on structures located in an area of the sea just outside the jurisdiction of this country, will be “subject to the death sentence” under Section 129 of the Criminal Code, Wanchat Chunhathanom of the Phuket Public Prosecutor’s Office said at a meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall last Friday (July 5).

Seasteading made headlines earlier this year when an American, Andrew Elwartowsky, and his Thai wife, Suranee “Nadia” Thepdet, were found to be operating one such housing platform.

The seastead was seen as a threat to Thai sovereignty under Section 119 of the same law, and was illegal under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. They claimed that their sixmetre-wide platform, located about 14 nautical miles (26km) @thephuketnews

The news was handed down at a meeting last Friday (July 5). Photo: PR Dept south of Phuket, was not in Thai territory.

Vice Admiral Krisi Keson, deputy secretary-general of the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre, reportedly insisted that the area is under Thailand’s sovereignty. Mr Wanchat did not name all nine suspects in the case, but did identify a German man, Coch Ruger, the owner of Ocean Builders, the company that helped the pair install the seastead, reported the Bangkok Post.

Immigration police are revoking his visa and gathering more evidence against him, said Mr Wanchat. Officers currently believe that the group of American, German and Thai suspects conspired to establish an “independent state,” he said.

According to investigators, Mr Elwartowsky and Ms Suranee were also accused of persuading people to build seasteads south of Phuket. The pair was earlier summoned to report to police on June 25, but failed to present themselves.

“We’ll sum mon them again on July 15, or they will face arrest warrants,” said Wichit Police Chief Col Nikon Somsuk.

At last report, in April, police confirmed that they had tracked the couple to the southern island of Tarutao, on the Malaysian border.

The couple have not been heard of since, other than announcing their marriage through Facebook and commenting on similar projects elsewhere in the world.

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“I am waiting for the Thai Government Procurement division in Bangkok to reply back to Cherng Talay OrBorTor about LP Laikhum Co Ltd appealing them losing their bid for the contract,” Mr MaAnn said.

The Thai Government Procurement division of the Comptroller General’s Department operates under the Ministry of Finance, and by law administers and adjudicates on all government concession contracts.

LP Laikhum Co Ltd was quietly awarded a B13 million contract in March last year to provide lifeguards at Surin and Bang Tao beaches.

However, the initial contract was allowed to lapse with LP Laikhum no longer providing lifeguards following a series of deadly incidents where its “lifeguards” – whose experience and qualifications were never confirmed – refused to enter dangerous surf to rescue drowning tourists.

After the collapse of the lifeguard system at Surin Beach, without naming any particular companies involved, Region 8 Police submitted the results of their preliminary investigation into alleged corruption over a government contract issued to provide lifeguards at Phuket’s beaches to the National Anti-Corruption Commission in Bangkok.

Regardless, LP Laikhum submitted a bid for a second government tender offered for companies to provide lifeguards in Cherng Talay.

“The winner of that e-bidding was Baan Natacha Group Co Ltd,” Mr MaAnn confirmed on Tuesday.

“So if we can’t sign and confirm the contract with the winner, we will continue to provide lifeguards through a short-term contract with the budget provided month by month,” Mr MaAnn said.

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM PHUKET SEVEN DAY WEATHER FORECAST

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‘Pad Thai’ parasite compaint cooks up storm over hygiene The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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he chief of the Phuket Provincial Health Office (PPHO) has ordered his officers to investigate the report by an Australian couple that a Pad Thai dish they ate at a food court in Phuket two years ago left their family debilitated by a parasite ingested along with the food.

Stacey Barnes, 32, and Ryan Prigg, 39, said they became feverish after the meal and caught the next flight out of the country to return to their home in Perth, where their symptoms worsened.

“Some days, I would suddenly become extremely bloated after eating something small, my stomach would just be enormous,” Ms Barnes told news.com.au. “We developed cold sores all over our face and ulcers all through our mouths.

“I thought to myself, ‘If I have to live with this, it’s not worth living at all’...I had no memory, I was really foggy…like a zombie.”

Kongsak Khongphongsakorn, President of the Thailand Hotels Association Southern chapter, said the complaint damaged Phuket’s tourism image.

The couple told media they struggled to look after their two children and almost lost their lucrative health and lifestyle business.

PPHO Chief Thanit Sermkaew has responded publicly, saying that he does not believe the couple became infected by eating Pad Thai – a standard fried noodle dish – in Phuket.

“I don’t believe what the Australian

couple are complaining about in the headlines. They did not become sick from eating Pad Thai. I do not think this is likely because Pad Thai requires high heat to cook,” Dr Thanit said.

Regardless, Dr Thanit has ordered Department of Disease Control officers at the Phuket health office to investigate the claims.

“I have ordered them to coordinate

with all hospitals in Phuket. They will find the patient records to confirm the facts from the time that they claim this happened,” he said.

“In addition, PPHO officials will contact the Australian couple as we require more information, and I have urged all officials to intensify food control regulations to prevent any future problems,” Dr Thanit said.

Kongsak Khongphongsakorn, President of the Thailand Hotels Association Southern chapter, said, “The news has definitely affected the image of Thailand. We must have hygiene measures enforced in all restaurants and on street food vendors “Officials should take law enforcement [on this issue] seriously, including eliminating rodents and cockroaches from any nearby areas [where food is prepared],” he said.

If any areas where food is prepared or served were found not complying with hygiene standards, Mr Kongsak said that public health regulations must be enforced on the vendors responsible for the area.

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The cost of living in paradise Man arrested for murder of woman

T H E PH U K ET N EWS H AS BEEN asked to conduct a poll asking tourists and local residents about their opinions on the sustainability of tourism in Phuket for a school research paper.

Piramon Tisapramotkul, a student at Glenlyon Norfolk School in British Columbia, Canada, is writing an economic paper on the sustainability of tourism in Phuket.

The poll comprises two questions.

The first question is “Do you think the cost of living in Phuket is too high?”

Responses available to this question are: • Yes, the cost of living in Phuket is too high • The cost of living in Phuket is appropriate compared with living in other cities in Thailand • No, the cost of living in Phuket is not too high, prices could be even higher The second question is “Do you think the environmental damage from tourism is too high?”

Responses available to this question are: • Yes, the environmental damage from tourism is too high • The environmental damage from tourism in Phuket is acceptable compared with other tourist destinations around the world • No, the environmental damage from tourism is low “I understand that there will definitely be limitations to the replies to the poll, but

Tourists relax on Patong Beach. Photo: TAT regardless, the poll is still an extremely valuable data source,” Mr Piramon admitted.

However, he added, “The results of the poll will be used in my paper to justify whether the government should implement more policies from tax to prohibition to regulate tourism in Phuket”.

The poll will be open to receive votes until Monday (July 15).

The Phuket News urges readers to cast their votes in the poll in support of young Thais taking an active role in addressing critical issues that affect the future of Phuket.

To vote in the two poll questions, visit ThePhuketNews.com and select “Poll” from the “News” menu.

The Phuket News

POLICE HAVE ARRESTED a Myanmar man who has reportedly confessed to the murder of a woman whose body was found on a trash pile near the bypass road two weeks ago.

Aung Tun Tun, 25, was taken into custody in Kra Buri District, in the northern part of Ranong, north of Phuket, last Sunday (July 7).

Aung was wanted for the murder of 28-year-old Myanmar national Nan Pan Mar Lar, nicknamed “Cherry”, whose body was found on a trash pile beside a road near the Sam Kong Intersection on Friday, June 28, Phuket City Police Deputy Chief Lt Col Rungrit Rattanapakdee explained on Monday (July 8).

Police identified Aung as the suspect after checking CCTV footage in the area which showed Aung driving a motorbike with Cherry as a passenger near the location where her body was found.

Cherry had been stabbed seven times.

Myanmar national Aung Tun Tun was arrested in Ranong province, north of Phuket, Photo: Pak Chan Police “Police asked Aung to show his alien registration card while he was walking by the side of Phet Kasem Rd, in Moo 1 Pak Chan, Kra Buri,” Col Rungrit said, adding that Aung was in hiding and working in Ranong.

“He ran away, but the officers ran after him and eventually caught him,” Col Rungrit explained.

During questioning, Aung said that he became enraged after he and Cherry, his expartner, failed to agree on the parenting of their two children because he knew that she already had a new partner, Col Rungrit explained.

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Seven years under NACC probe

Former Kamala officials to be charged for B3.2mn corruption Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

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he National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has submitted a request to the Office of the Attorney General to file corruption charges against five former members of the Kamala Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor), including former president Charun Sararak.

The move to press charges follows a seven-year investigation that began in 2012 into the construction of canal retaining walls and a road in Moo 3, Kamala, for which a budget of more than B26 million was funded by the government.

The five officials stand accused of inf lating the project price to solicit more than B3.2 million for their own gain.

NACC has announced on its website that the request to the Office of the Attorney General to file corruption charges against the five was submitted on May 22 this year.

The five officials to be charged were named as: • Charun Sararak, former Kamala OrBorTor president • Suwit Koomluk, former Kamala OrBorTor vice president • Santi Attasub, former Kamala

The NACC has requested corruption charges be filed against five former Kamala OrBorTor members, including a former OrBorTor president, for swindling moret hna B3.2 million out of a construction project to build canal retaining walls and a road. Photo: Kamala OrBorTor OrBorTor vice president, • Rattapong Aksornwong, an engineer with the Public Works and Town & Country Planning division at Kamala OrBorTor • Jiranai Suebsot, Kamala OrBorTor engineer who was construction supervisor for the project Charun is to be charged for breaches of the Criminal Code Sections 90, 91, 151 and 157.

Section 151 states: “Whoever, to be the official to have the duty in the purchase, execution, management or maintenance of anything

by a wrongful exercise of one’s functions damaging the State, the Municipality, the Sanitation or the owner of such property, shall be imprisoned as form five years to twenty years or life imprisonment and fined as from two thousand Baht to forty thousand Baht.”

Section 157 states, “Whoever, being an official, wrongfully exercises or does not exercise any of his functions to the injury of any person, or dishonestly exercises or omits to exercise any of his functions, shall be punished with

Dolphin sighting spurs litter warning THE CHIEF OF THE AO PHANG NGA National Park has made a special plea for people to keep plastic bags away from the sea after after a bottlenose dolphin was found swimming close to officers’ boat nearby Koh Panyee, at the top end of Phang Nga Bay The dolphin was seen swimming close to park officers’ boat yesterday (July 9) while they were heading to Koh Talu, explained Park Chief Sarayuth Tuntian.

The dolphin, 1.5 meters long, seemed strong and familiar with humans.

“This was the third time we dolphins have been seen in the area searching for food,” Mr Sarayuth told The Phuket News.

Mr Sarayuth said his concern was that dolphins and other marine animals will mistake plastic bags for food.

“I have to raise this issue because we still remove trash from the sea every day. This garbage comes from humans – from tourists, locals and businesses,” he said.

“Don’t leave trash in the sea, instead take it away, especially plastic bags because of dolphin and marine animals will think that it is their food,” Mr Sarayuth added.

“I remind you that national park officers will charge people who throw away garbage or other things in areas other than trash bins.

Depending on the severity of the act, it may be a B1,000 fine, or even up to one month in jail,” he warned.

“If we can do this together, the environment in Phang Nga Bay will recover, which will result in lots of marine animals and sea plants being around here more often,” Mr Sarayuth said.

The plea to keep especially plastic bags away from the sea follows Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha last Wednesday – International @thephuketnews

The dolphin was found swimming close to officers’ boat nearby Koh Panyee. Photo: Thon Thamrongnawasawat / Facebook Plastic Bag Free Day (July 3) – announcing that the government has pledged to ban styrofoam food packages as well as some other types of single-use plastic products by 2022.

“The most important thing is to change people’s habits. People need to become more aware [of plastic waste pollution]. So, I appeal to people to reject plastic bags offered in convenience stores and shopping malls. On the part of the government, we will tighten measures from asking people to reduce consumption to imposing a ban,” Gen Prayut said after the Cabinet meeting last Wednesday.

According to the prime minister, antiplastic campaigns have helped cut around 1.5 billion plastic bags, weighing 2.7 tonnes, over a 10-month period to April this year, reported the Bangkok Post.

State news agency NNT reported that 45 billion plastic bags were produced and used in Thailand each year, with fresh markets and street stalls were held accountable for about 18bn bags (about 40%).

The Phuket News

imprisonment of one to ten years or fined of two thousand to twenty thousand Baht, or both.”

Sections 90 and 91 refer to extra penalties for committing multiple offences.

The four others – Suwit, Santi, Rattapong and Jiranai – are to be charged under Section 157.

The NACC noted in its report that its initial investigation launch in 2014 focused on 11 members of the Kamala OrBorTor, the five to be charged as well as: • Karoon Sriden, former vice president • Sontaya Soontornrak, former vice president • Bumrung Pimonrattanakarn, director of the Public Works Division • Thanang Chuchart, engineering assistant • Jaree Pokbud, Moo 3 representative • Atikom Anaburong, Moo 6 representative However, no charges are to be brought against any of these six, the NACC reported.

The NACC also noted that the investigation followed a complaint filed in 2012, resulting in the State Audit Office of the Kingdom of Thailand (SAO) Region 13 office

investigating claims of malfeasance in the project.

The SAO noted that the total budget of B26,465,000 for the project was confirmed in the contractor’s contract signed on Aug 10, 2005.

The SAO also found that price B26,465,000 budget was not calculated from the project cost submitted by the contractor, but estimated from the figures presented by Thanang, who was responsible for designing weir.

In total, the project budget had been inflated by B3,266,629, the SAO noted in their investigation.

Further, the contractor, Natthanon Supply Limited Partnership, was to be fined B820,415 – B26,465 per day for completing the project 31 days late – but Charun exercised an abuse of his powers in office to waive the fine, the SAO noted.

Of the original 11 Kamala OrBorTor members investigated for corruption, only Mr Karoon remains serving at the OrBorTor. None of the five to be charged still hold positions at the OrBorTor. The NACC also noted in its report a reminder that all five persons to be charged at this stage only stand accused of corruption. They will not be confirmed as guilty until a court verdict deems it so.

Opinion 6

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EDITORIAL

In clear view

onday was an extraordinary day. We had Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha officially open the long-awaited Chalong Underpass in the morning and just hours later grace his presence at the full-scale tsunami disaster response exercise at the Phuket Deep Sea Port.

As Interior Minister Gen Anupong Paojinda pointed out, the Integrated Disaster Management Exercise (IDMEx 2019) was held not only for disaster-response teams to practice, but also to show the world how well prepared Thailand is to respond to disasters.

Key to the exercise was the co-ordination of government agencies in providing disaster relief, Gen Anupong explained.

Ironically, Gen Anupong and guest of honour Prime Minister Prayut only hours earlier were celebrating the opening of Chalong Under-

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KIATTIKUL ‘JOM’ CHUMANEE

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082 729 0270 translate@classactmedia.co.th

NITAD ‘TAE’ MANEE THANAPONG ‘OAK’ KHAO-AMPHAIPHAN NIRAVIT ‘MOS’ VORAVANITCHA Graphic designers

The Phuket News @thephuketnews ADVERTISING 076 612 550 ext. 605 Fax: 076 612 553 info@classactmedia.co.th thephuketnews.com

99/7 Moo 1 (Billion Plaza), T. Kathu, A. Kathu, Phuket 83120

Also on Monday, while the safety-highlighting antics were being held in Phuket, Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Yuthasak Supakorn vowed that the TAT has now seriously – yes, seriously – “set clear directions to move the Thai tourism industry out of mass tourism and towards responsible tourism with an emphasis on revenue-generating quality tourists”.

Mr Yuthasak, if you don’t have a unique product, to charge higher prices you need to offer a higher-quality product. Without deceiving your customers, that is the only way to get customers to pay more.

In order to attract higherspending tourists, you’re going to need to have a serious chat with those running the disaster department – and possibly the prime minister – in order to get the budgets you need to “resolve these issues”.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Phuket Poll: The cost of living in paradise Hong Kong tourist drowns at Phuket Beach Body of foreign man found floating off Phuket Australian couple say pad Thai in Phuket made them ‘zombies’ Two rescued from strong surf, foreign woman pulled out to sea by rip Dead sperm whale found with jaw hacked off on Koh Lanta Phuket’s MaAnn scrambles to find lifeguards for Surin Beach 18 Phuket police to be transferred in reshuffle Police identify suspect for murder of woman found on trash pile Man wanted for strangling ex-partner in Phuket caught on Bangkok-bound bus

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HAVE YOUR SAY

editor1@classactmedia.co.th Former freelance writer and editor for a music news and reviews website in the UK. Now turning her hobby into a career with The Phuket News and broadening her scope from music to, well, everything. Likes the weird and wonderful.

pass. So disorganised was that project that something that was supposed to take 25 months to complete was finished 20 months late. That’s how well co-ordinated government departments in Thailand can be.

Indeed. The IDMEx was put on show at an unknown cost to the taxpayer, but no one wanted to mention that. Do such extravagances instill confidence among tourists thinking of travelling to Thailand? Yes, they do. But probably not as much as issues such as road safety and drowning at beaches in Phuket, which both present a clear and present danger to tourists’ safety.

And funny that no one seemed to want to raise the issue to our visiting PM that only 10 weeks ago the island was running out of water – and as confirmed this week is still at risk of running out of water before the end of the next “high season”, if not sooner.

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

Deep end

Re: Hong Kong tourist drowns at Phuket Beach This so-called “Governor” must be considered complicit in every drowning on this island.

He was told about the critical issue of Phuket’s pathetic lifeguard situation, but has done nothing except lie to Chinese officials by telling them Chinese are safe in Phuket. There is an empty lifeguard shack, an empty tower and no flags on the beach. This is a beachoriented tourist destination, and to not provide lifeguards to look after guests and locals is irresponsible and baffling.

BenPendejo This is on the head of the [Cherng Talay] OrBorTor [Chief]. He was directly responsible for leaving Surin Beach without a lifeguard or any equipment that might have saved this person. 3pm and no lifeguards on a popular and dangerous Phuket beach.

This is ridiculous!

Pinot Re: Phuket’s MaAnn scrambles to find lifeguards for Surin Beach Since Mr MaAnn is now

looking for experienced lifeguards, I suggest he start with Mr Chuasaman, the man who saved the first drowning victim [from Hong Kong], and who is also a former lifeguard. Mr MaAnn had plenty of time to arrange lifeguards before someone drowned.

Daren Jenner Salute to Amnad Chuasaman. He’s the previous lifeguard before the government stopped paying them but he’s still there to help. If he was not alone they might have saved the father [from Hong Kong].

They should bring back the trained lifeguards on duty.

RIP. Condolences to the family.

Alik Reyes Narag

Personal safety

Re: Phuket Opinion: Keeping memories afloat [A year after Phoenix sinks, safety remains a priority] I don’t think anyone anywhere takes a blind bit of notice about what [officials say] these days. The only way for people to start to believe anything is when they start to see change with their own eyes. That’s not just marine safety but roads, speedboats, jet-skis, beaches

and even tourist numbers.

Best you can do is tell all tourists to open their eyes and think what they are doing when on holiday. Think why is that red flag there? Why is this tour so cheap? How many people on this boat? Can I swim? Can my family swim?

Is it safe to walk in the road?

Do I ride a motorbike safely at home? Would I do that at home? People need to be told to think first.

Simon Lomas

Class in corruption

Re: Corruption rife in schools, study finds No surprises here. Why would education be different from every other institution?

Patrick Bailey

all is watching them, a noncorrupt government?

Lars Hansems

RIP Mr Winters

Re: Body of foreign man found floating off Phuket The gentleman’s name was Steve Williams Winters. He was the manager at Fiji Palms in Ao Makam and a very good friend. Such a gentle heart and a very giving person. He will be missed by many. His family have been contacted. Fly with the Angels Steve. I hope you find happiness in the next life my friend.

AngAon

Little green book

Stealing money f rom children. How do they look at themselves in the mirror every day?

Robert Reynolds

Re: Eco Blueprints: Zeavola Resort GM pens environmental e-book I bought one. A good read and some relevant lessons to be learnt as well as applied.

Respect to the GM. Recommended to all my friends.

Roland Bleszynski

They look in the mirror thinking they did a great job dodging poverty. Who after

Good job Florian with the great services you offer there.

P’tit Joce

To recognise the problem is half the solution.

Luc Bureau

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FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Rapid TB tests to go nationwide in October THAILAND

Apinya Wipatayotin

T

he Department of Medical Sciences has successfully developed a new rapid test kit for tuberculosis (TB), which will be distributed to community hospitals nationwide in October.

Sukhum Kanchanapimai, permanent secretary for public health, on Tuesday (July 9) told a press conference that the ministry is aware that TB is a growing health threat.

The World Health Organization (WHO) aims to reduce the number of TB patients to fewer than 10 in 100,000 by 2035. In Thailand, according to the WHO’s estimate, the ratio was 156:100,000 last year.

TB usually affects the lungs, but it can also affect other parts of the body, such as the brain, the kidneys or the spine.

Recently the young female singer, Butsaran Thongchiew, 28, aka Numtarn The Star 5, died from a very rare form of the disease sited behind her sinuses which caused fatal cranial bleeding, Dr Sukhum said.

It is estimated that one-third of the population has latent TB which is asymptomatic. The only sign of TB infection is a positive reaction to the tuberculin skin test or TB blood test. Persons with latent TB infection are not infectious.

However, without treatment, about 5%

@thephuketnews

An official introduces a rapid test kit for tuberculosis in Bangkok in March. Photo: Somchai Poomlard / Bangkok Post

to 10% of infected persons will develop full-blown TB at some point in their lives.

Dr Sukhum said quick diagnosis at a cheaper price will be able to help people infected with TB access medical treatment.

The ministry has pledged to include the new test in the universal scheme in the future.

The department’s medical scientist team has developed the rapid test kit for five years based on the WHO LoopMediated Isothermal Amplification (Lamp) method.

Benjawan Phetsuksiri, the project leader from the department’s National Institute of Health, said the TB-Lamp

tests give a result within an hour.

“The good point is that the test can be done anywhere, without the need for a laboratory to process the result.

Medical staff in community hospitals can read the result. Other tests require expensive machines and experts to read the result,” she said, adding that the price of the rapid test is B200.

She said the rapid test is more accurate than other, more expensive tests. However, the TB-Lamp test can only diagnose the active form of the disease and will not identify those with the latent strain.

For those people, a different, more expensive type of blood test is required.

Bangkok Post

THAILAND NEWS

7

Police volunteer shoots wife while with mistress NAKHON SRI THAMMARAT A MAN HAS SUR RENdered to police after shooting his wife dead in Nakhon Sri Thammarat early last Sunday (July 7), describing it as an “unforgivable mistake”.

The 43-year-old, Kachornsak Nuanpoon, surrendered to Muang Police last Sunday morning with a 9mm pistol.

Mr Kachornsak, himself a volunteer assistant for Muang Police, said the incident occurred at about 2am while he was sleeping with his second wife at a rented house in tambon Thang Poon. He said he heard a noise like that of a brick hitting a back window and suspected somebody was breaking into the house.

Believing the intruder might be a drug gang member, he said he fired a random shot at the window with the handgun. Suddenly, he heard the voice of a woman calling him by his nickname, saying, “Kung, it’s me”.

Mr Kachornsak said he rushed out of the house and found his wife Monthathip lying in a pool of blood with a motorcycle helmet on. She had been shot in the abdomen

Kachornsak Nuanpoon is questioned by police after killing his wife. Photo: Nujaree Raekrun / Bangkok Post and was bleeding profusely.

He then realised Monthathip had come to look for him on a motorcycle.

Mr Kachornsak said he took his wife to Maharat Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.

He said that since he is a volunteer assistant to police, he had taken part in several drug raids. For fear of being targeted by drug gangs, he carried the gun for self-protection.

“I am very sorry for what happened. She was a good woman and was everything in my life. I love her very much, but I made an unforgivable mistake,” Mr Kachornsak said.

Pol Lt Col Teerawut Thepluan, of Muang Police Station said Mr Kachornsak had been detained for further questioning and legal action.

Bangkok Post

THAILAND NEWS

8

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

PM signals end of military rule

Media bans lifted, military court cases moved but special laws remain THAILAND Bangkok Post

G

en Prayut Chan-o-cha has put his special powers to use one last time by lifting media bans and transferring all cases involving offences against his orders to civilian courts, ending the military rule which has been a subject of much criticism at home and abroad for the past five years.

The court case and jurisdiction transfers are part of a sweeping order, expected to be his last, to repeal 66 of some 460 orders and announcements he has issued since the 2014 military coup.

With the Cabinet list headed by him royally approved late Wednesday afternoon, the strongman who has held the country by his firm grip after the 2014 military coup for

A screenshot from TV footage shows Gen Prayut, together with commanders of the armed forces and the police chief, addressing the people on May 22, 2014 after seizing the ruling power. Photo: Bangkok Post / file half a decade will continue to rule it for another four years, minus the special powers that grant him immunity for his actions in the past, present and future.

The National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) was constitutionally dissolved on Wednesday when the new cabinet was sworn in.

On Tuesday evening (July

9), The Royal Gazette published the No.9/2562 order of the NCPO chief.

“The NCPO issued announcements and orders to facilitate administration and

national reform and to promote unity and reconciliation among people. Now that the implementation of some of them have been completed, they no longer serve a purpose,” reads the order.

For one thing, the order repeals announcements and orders by the NCPO and its chief putting some types of offences under the military court’s jurisdiction.

“All offences under the NCPO orders, whether committed before or after this order takes effect, will be in the jurisdiction of the courts of justice. The cases being tried by the military court will also be transferred to the courts of justice,” it reads.

Other orders repealed are those involving measures to solve illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing problems, appointments of some boards, and additional positions to

accommodate NCPO officials.

It also sets up a new office called the Prime Minister’s Policy Management Office under the Secretariat of the Prime Minister to support his missions.

However, opposition members and critics have pointed out some of these orders have been enshrined in the new Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) law.

For instance, they say the restructured ISOC can summon and detain people for questioning without a warrant for several days if there are grounds for suspicion, just like the NCPO did under Section 44 orders.

The media bans of some sorts have also been integrated into the amended computer crime law passed by the nowdefunct National Legislative Assembly appointed by the NCPO, they say.

Police deny new jet just for Prawit Nationwide corruption probe THAILAND into school lunch fraud ordered THE ROYAL THAI POLICE ON MONday (July 8) denied that a B1.1 billion plane purchased recently would only serve the needs of Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon as critics have alleged.

“This plane is not only for the deputy prime minister and defence minister,” police spokesman Piya Uthayo said on Monday in response to reports about the purpose of the luxury 10-seat small aircraft.

He said the police had to purchase a small plane that was able to land on short runways to carry out urgent police work.

The plane will be used for weekly missions, including drug suppression and other criminal crackdowns, though it will also sometimes serve commanders flying to visit police agencies countrywide.

The explanation came after the Watchdog Act Facebook Page posted a photo claimed to be elegant cabin space aboard the Dassault Falcon 2000S plane.

THAILAND

Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon disembarks the new Dassault Falcon 2000S plane, purchased by the Royal Thai Police, on June 27. Photo: Wassana Nanuam Pol Lt Gen Piya said that the picture was doctored. “The plane is nothing special and only equipped with necessary facilities.”

Reportedly Gen Prawit, who also chairs the Police Commission, travelled in the plane on June 27 with an entourage to attend a ceremony to hand back land title deeds to villagers in Lob Buri.

Bangkok Post

THE OFFICE OF THE BAsic Education Commission (Obec) has ordered educational service area offices nationwide to review free lunch programmes for kindergarten and primary students at schools under their responsibility after allegations of corruption resurfaced.

The move comes after the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) in Nakhon Ratchasima discovered that at least four schools in the province had supplied students with substandard lunches. According to the NACC, school bosses spent only part of their school lunch budgets and could not explain where the rest of the money had gone. Some claimed they had not embezzled the remaining funds, but spent them on other student activities such as sport.

In some cases, the number of students registered for school lunch programmes were found to be higher than the number of students enrolled in school, suggesting student numbers were concocted so the school could get more money.

The findings are another blow to the credibility of the state-run school lunch programme. Since 1999, when it started, the Ministry of Education has provided B20 per pupil per day for students

Pupils receive their lunch at Banbangkapi School in Bang Kapi district, Bangkok. Photo: Apichart Jinakul from preschool to elementary school levels.

Each school is empowered to hire private caterers to provide the lunches for its students.

Yet there have been reports of fraud at some schools, which have been accused of not allocating the full amount for meals and misusing or siphoning off the rest.

Last week, Obec transferred the director of Maheyong School in Nakhon Sri Thammarat province to an inactive post pending an investigation, after a video clip went viral this month showing a student with only rice, a soup containing vegetable scraps and watermelon for lunch.

Two years ago, corruption involving school lunches was also found at two schools in Phrae province where cooks were hired to prepare lunch, but the actual money they were paid was lower than that recorded in the schools’

financial reports.

Obec Secretary-General Suthep Chittayawong said stealing students’ lunch money is an unacceptable act as it is not only a matter of enriching oneself by siphoning money meant for public causes, but also a crime that damages the lives of the nation’s future generation.

“A lunch budget of B20 per head provided to schools may not be much, but it is more than enough to provide healthy and decent meals for students if there is no corruption,” he said.

Mr Suthep said an inspection conducted by educational service area offices is expected to take about two weeks. He said a fact-finding committee will be set up to look into the matter if irregularities are detected, and if any school executives are found guilty they will face serious legal and disciplinary action.

Bangkok Post thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

BUSINESS NEWS

9

TAT targets 10% growth in 2020

Quality markets and responsible tourism set as key criteria TOURISM The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

G

earing up to mark its 60th anniversary in 2020, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) this week reaffirmed its commitment to making travel and tourism the Kingdom’s most economically promising, environmentally sustainable, and culturally vibrant sector in the years to come.

Addressing the Thai tourism private sector and media after the week-long Tourism Action Plan meetings, TAT Governor Yuthasak Supasorn said that the completion of the auspicious 5th cycle of life will be a time for reflection on past achievements and careful management of a new era of challenges set to emerge in a highly competitive and constantly changing global and regional environment.

“With the positive outcome in 2018, Thai tourism has clearly succeeded in fulfilling its mandate,” he said.

“We will work even harder to maintain our brand image, preserve our competitive advantages, and ensure that the socio-economic benefits of international and domestic

TAT Governor Yuthasak Supasorn said the focus is to shift away from mass tourism towards higher-spending ‘quality’ tourists. Photo: TAT tourism are spread right across the country.”

In implementing this agenda, TAT will be closely aligning its strategies with the policies and plans of the National Economic and Social Development Board, Thailand’s national planning agency, whose Secretary General, Thosaphorn Sirisamphan is also the current Chairman of TAT’s Board.

The targets for 2020 are to boost total tourism revenues by 10% over the projection for this year. TAT has also set clear directions to move

the Thai tourism industry out of mass tourism and towards responsible tourism with an emphasis on revenue-generating quality tourists.

The idea of responsible tourism will be spread out through the channels of TAT in-house magazine named Osotho, the TAT announced in a release this week.

Governor Yuthasak said, “Also, TAT will launch a nationwide campaign to mark its 60th anniversary with core messages highlighting the importance of responsible tourism and being good hosts under the

Tesco Lotus amid mass expansion RETAIL TESCO LOTUS REMAINS committed to continuing investment in Thailand, with plans to raise spending by five times a year over the next three years to catch up with urbanisation.

The company aims to open 750 Tesco Lotus Express convenience stores during 2019-21, said Sompong Rungnirattisai, chief executive of Tesco Lotus operator Ek-Chai Distribution System Co. Each store requires an investment of B5-10 million.

The move is in line with the parent company’s recent announcement to allocate B50 billion to expand the business globally, especially in emerging markets, this year.

The expansion plan will bring the number of Tesco Lotus Express stores to 2,250 by 2021.

“Our parent firm [Tesco Plc, Britain’s biggest grocer] remains committed to continuing its investment in Thailand because the Kingdom is one of the emerging markets,” Mr Sompong said.

“Normally, in the past, we would open about 50-60 Tesco Lotus Express stores @thephuketnews

Mr Sompong sees Thailand’s urbanisation as a significant tr e n d . P h o to : P i t s i n e e Jitpleecheep / Bangkok Post per year. But from this year, we will move at a faster pace by opening an average of 250 new stores per year in the next three consecutive years.”

According to Mr Sompong, the group sees urbanisation as a significant trend that continues to shape the way people shop.

“As more than 58% of the population is expected to live in urban areas by 2030 from the current rate of 50%, we plan to serve the growing urban population better through differentiated propositions that enhance both our product offerings and shopping channels,” he said.

With growing urbanisation, shoppers want both convenience and a good shopping experience, without compromising quality and value for money.

To better suit customers, the company has focused on simplification, including rearranging space in its large stores to improve the shopping experience, as well as utilisation of technology and an omnichannel platform to enhance convenience, Mr Sompong said.

Of the total 250 stores, the company has already opened 30 stores in urban areas in the initial phase. The first 30 Tesco Lotus Express stores built around this concept have received positive responses from customers, the company said.

In addition, Tesco Lotus plans to upgrade its existing 1,500 Express stores into a new proposition over the next three years. The executive did not disclose the budget for store renovation.

For large stores, the company will adjust the size of Tesco hypermarkets to suit each location.

Retail space at a hypermarket will scale down to 3,0004,000 square metres, from 10,000-12,000sqm and leave more space to tenants such as small shops and cinemas.

Some 20 hypermarkets have already been repurposed.

Bangkok Post

theme of ‘Next steps towards a sustainable Thailand’.

“This campaign will be delivered to three target groups: TAT staff, the Thai people, and Thai tourism stakeholders. Meanwhile, an ‘Amazing Thailand Week’ is also planned for the international market

by TAT’s overseas offices.

For the domestic market, TAT will categorise customers into various segments; such as, Gen X, Gen Y, family and millennial family, silver age, lady, first jobber, multigen, and corporate.

In the foreign markets, TAT will focus on specific quality markets and middle-upper income groups (Go High). It will seek first-time visitors in new markets and in the long-standing source markets (Go New Customer). It will also attempt to balance out the seasonality factor and generate more demand in the “Green Season” (Go Low), the announcement read.

Alongside efforts to build a strong image of Thailand in order to maintain its competitive advantages, other products will be developed and marketed; such as, homestays, walking streets and local cuisine (Go Local). Meanwhile, digital technology will be devised to reach the customers (Go Digital).

The core communication marketing theme will remain “Open to the New Shades” that focuses on providing positive and unexpected experiences. Following on from the long-standing Amazing Thailand slogan, the future advertising campaigns will continue to specific target groups and highlight the friendliness and hospitality of the Thai people, the TAT noted.

Gov Yuthasak said, “Next year is likely to be a testing year due to the impact of international developments; such as, global geopolitical friction and economic difficulties, increasing competition, a relatively strong baht, and reduced spending power.

“The good news is that the global travel and tourism market is still vibrant and the Asia-Pacific region, the source of the vast majority of Thailand’s tourism visitors, is seeing the emergence of many different customer segments across all demographic categories and income groups.”

He added, “The past 60 years have seen Thai tourism go through many ups and downs, but always emerge strong and resilient. Our contribution to national social and economic development is now wellrecognised.”

10 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Should we trust ‘influencers’?

Research reveals impact of social influence in online reviews TECHNOLOGY Jaymee Ng

W

e live in a social world where we a r e c on st a nt ly sharing our opinions and exposed to other people’s opinions.

Some of these opinions are useful especially when we are thinking about buying a new product or service. In fact, a previous report stated that more than 80% of consumers are likely to research online before making a purchase.

In other words, online reviews of products and services can have a real effect on potential consumers.

We would like to think that online reviews are unbiased and neutral so that we can rely on them.

However, a recent research study by Prof Michael Zhang from the Department of Decision Sciences and Managerial Economics and Associate Dean (Innovation and Impact) at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School reveals that those

Just how much are our online decisions affected by those we associate with? online reviews could be influenced by our friends.

“Our paper examines friends’ social influence in online ratings using data from a large social network in China,” says Prof Zhang.

And we find that online rating contributors are socially nudged by their friends when giving their ratings,” he adds.

“One challenge in this setting is that we cannot directly observe individuals’ original ratings, so how can we determine if individuals modified their ratings after observing their friends’ ratings?

“We are able to identify this effect with a clever research design,” Prof Zhang explains.

The Study For the purpose of the study, Prof Zhang and his collaborators from Peking University and University of Maryland obtained data from one of the most influential online rating websites for books, movies and music in China. The site has more than eight million registered users and over 10 million page views per day.

In February 2008, the site introduced a friend network function enabling users to send friend requests and get updates about their friends’ ratings. The main analysis of the study focused on the observations of book ratings from February to August 2008, which amounted to a data set of 171,588 ratings by 33,605 users.

“Salient information about friends’ ratings is a critical condition for social influence to take place. On one hand, the salience of a friend’s ratinginformation feed enables a user to be aware of his friends’ expressed opinions. On the other, users are also aware that their friends will be able to access their expressed opinions easily,” says Prof Zhang.

Is it genuinely us, or is it our friends?

However, giving out similar ratings on the same product could mean that their friends share similar tastes with them – which is commonly known as the homophily effect. The researchers think it is important to distinguish whether similar ratings by friends are caused by the homophily effect or social influence since the two effects would lead to very different strategic implications for marketing managers.

“If homophily is the dominating force behind the

similarity in ratings given by friends, then managers should not be concerned about the high correlation between friends’ ratings,” says Prof Zhang.

“If, however, it is social influence that induces later reviewers to give ratings conditional on their friends’ earlier ratings, then the rating-score trajectory will be path dependent, and whoever leaves the first rating will influence his friends’ future ratings.”

To separate social influence from the homophily effect, the researchers examined the similarity in ratings before and after users became friends.

The before ratings are used as a benchmark to show whether the users share similar tastes.

“Our results show that users’ earlier ratings do exert social influence on their friends’ later ratings; and the rating similarity increases by 190% after the establishment of friendship,” he says.

Factors Leading to Higher Influence The study finds that more recent friendship has higher influence on social ratings.

In addition to the explanation that new friends usually receive more attention than old friends, the result reveals that the social influence in online product reviews weakens over time.

It also shows introducing a friend has no significant impact on social rating similarity and that the social influence only takes place after the users became friends. In other words, one does not conform to another’s opinion by wanting to become friends with the other person.

“The increase in rating similarity takes place only with

friends’ ratings, even when we introduce public ratings into the model. This result supports our finding that the identified social influence is indeed due to conformity pressure among friends,” Prof Zhang explains.

“We also find that friends’ influence is more salient for older books. Yet, there is no significant relationship between rating intensity and social influence. This suggests that, rather than following the mainstream, users conform to their friends in an attempt to develop and manage relationships within their online community.”

Moreover, users with larger numbers of friends experience weaker social influence, given the challenge of attending to everyone in a big network of friends.

Other findings indicate that users usually read their friends’ ratings after they finished reading the books themselves, meaning the effect is more significant in the post-consumption stage. In addition, such social influence is stronger for extremely negative ratings, yet there is no evidence to show such influence works with extremely positive ratings.

Implications The study offers important managerial implications to online rating-system designers and marketers.

“Systems designers can use our results to nudge their users. For example, ratings sites can make use of algorithms to recommend reviews not subject to the influence of social ties, highlight the reviews from users who do not have prior friends’ ratings, or even use a warning sign to tell users that some reviews might be influenced by friends’ ratings,” he says.

“As for marketing practitioners, it is important to identify early adopters and take their social influence into consideration when making plans to respond to online consumer ratings and reviews,” he adds.

“Our study shows that although social-networking features might help attract users and improve stickiness, social nudge as a result of interactions among friends may prevent users from giving independent evaluations of products,” Prof Zhang warns.

Jaymee Ng is the Principle Writer at China Business Knowledge at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Youth climate strike protester speaks out

12

Staying safe in the Phuket surf, top tips

13

ART AND SOUL

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Murals of life unleash children’s creativity, imagination PEOPLE OF PHUKET Jill N. Wells

C

laire Lathrop was not swept away from Kansas by a tornado – like Dorothy Gale in The Wizard of Oz – to the Land of Smiles. Instead, she chose this country and she chose Phuket, not only for its charming natural scenery, but also for its outspread love which appealed to her ingenuous heart.

Claire is a visionary artist and performer from Kansas City, US, currently a student at Kansas City Art Institute.

Since her internship at The NelsonAtkins Museum of Art, she has been travelling around the world volunteering for charities as according to her, “there’s nothing more rewarding”. Her preferred vacation style is “spending some time doing something good for somebody else and leaving a positive impact with my murals”. So far, she has left murals in Indonesia and Costa Rica.

On her Phuket travels, Claire met the Good Shepherd Sisters, charity workers who empower, enhance dignity, support self-sufficiency and build esteem for those excluded from society.

She was touched by the volunteers’ hard work and people’s generous donations and sacrifice for the St. Euphrasia BanYa Literacy Centre which helps children access high-quality, long-term education in Thailand and Myanmar.

As an artist, Claire has her own belief in doing something good for the children. According to her research, “visual information in environments in which we live, work and learn in have an impact on our capacity to do those things. So the more beautiful spaces are, the more our capacity to learn and to be positive, to be proud and to be happy”.

So she decided to create another mural to show her support and appreciation.

Claire wanted the children to be able to see something beautiful every single day, something beautiful in their own eyes, so she asked a few students to actively participate in the mural painting, giving them free rein to use their creativity and imagination.

“Long term, it’s going to have a positive impact on their learning, letting them know that people are listening, people do care and people do come to help them and beautify the spaces for @thephuketnews

Regal Blossom is a collaborative, meaningful mural. them. Beautiful spaces will lift up their self-esteem and their ability to learn,” Claire believes.

Before the painting started, I asked Claire what kind of mural was on her mind or what subject she was intending to paint. She told me that she had no idea as it really depends on her co-painters, meaning the students who were about to paint the background for her. In her own words, “taking the energy, curiosity, the smiley faces and the exciting moments, letting them flow in my mural. Letting the children paint the background, I’ll form a mural painting afterwards. It’s going to be very challenging for me”.

Five BanYa students painted the background with colours directly from paint buckets. What they created was almost like children’s graffiti with different geometric shapes, dots, lines and palm prints on the 10x10-foot canvas.

The real challenge for Claire was to see through the pell-mell colours of the background and contrive something beautiful from the lovely children.

Claire’s part was more impressionism with subjects such as an elephant – the common symbol in Thailand for bravery and strength – in blue to represent the monarchy of Thailand. The lotus flowers – which thrive from beneath the muddy water and bloom with wonderful

colours, shapes and fragrance – symbolise rebirth, beauty and growing through hard times, and Claire chose yellow to present the royal colour of the King.

The lotus flowers frame the elephant, acting as a crown and collar, regal signs of adornment. Butterflies – the most free-willed creature in our world, and for Claire omens of good luck and resurrection of life – emerge from the side of the elephant.

These different elements, together with the background, might usually be regarded as separate and independent factions that few people would combine.

But with Claire’s imagination, delicate hands and loving heart, she brings them together. The visual collision and fusion she creates is a rare experience that she named Regal Blossom.

The painting breaks the boundaries between the genres. It is free to drift.

Art requires both a boundless creativity and an unfettered aesthetic. And Claire achieves this. Both parts contain momentum and the enthusiasm of the painters. If I was not there observing from the beginning, perhaps I would never have guessed that this harmonious mural was co-painted by BanYa students and Claire.

In this utilitarian era, children need to learn useful knowledge and enrich themselves. But at the same time, they need to slow down to appreciate beautiful things and nurture spirituality in their lives. They need to use their eyes to observe the greatness of art, and their hearts to read and feel the artists’ understanding of beauty, life, social class, spirit of the times and even different national cultures.

Arts education is life-enhancing, it’s central to children’s development and it’s invaluable in stimulating creative thinking. Indeed, arts education makes an important contribution to the wider goal of developing creativity in our society and economy. One of the most crucial roles of teachers is developing young minds through exploration, discovery and creativity. Arts education embraces both artistic education – that is the child making art – and aesthetic education – the child as a receiver of art.

As W.B. Yeats said, “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire”. In this, Claire set us an example.

Visit Claire’s website at ArtofClairVoyage.com or follow her Facebook at www. facebook.com/ArtofClairVoyage

12 ENVIRONMENT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Children of the Revolution Why the next generation feels the planet is unsafe in our hands MUSING IN THE MIRE Uma Jacklin

Protesting is rebellious but in a good way. Instead of spray painting walls or breaking the law, we have to repair the house we’ve broken.

Photo: Markus Spiske / Unsplash

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olitics is cyclic. History advises us that a stretch of stable, middle-ground government gives way to an era of discontent and unrest.

From a status quo of sociopolitical compromise and less dominant leadership comes the emergence of more extreme factions and outsiders from both the far left and right, creating a wider and more divided political landscape. It all makes for a bumpy ride.

In uncertain times unusual candidates, often from outside the establishment, suddenly find themselves centre stage. Political upsets are the norm. From Trump to Volodymyr Zelensky, the new Ukrainian president, they have common ground in that they are both unorthodox characters and comedians of a sort.

It could all be viewed as a rather amusing political farce if the potential outcomes weren’t so serious. And it seems that today’s youth certainly don’t see the funny side. In particular with many leading politicians’ continued ignorance on climate change issues and withdrawal from international agreements on the selfserving basis of maintaining strong industrial growth.

It’s all rather short-sighted from younger eyes.

Whilst adults seem tired and disillusioned with the whole debacle, it appears that it’s time for the younger generation to take up arms against the lethargy of our parents. After all, we’re the ones who will inherit the mess.

On March 15, an estimated 1.4 million students in 112 countries, including Thailand, protested through their streets on climate change. I also took a stand in the UK against the ecologically-sluggish dinosaurs.

The School Strike for Climate is an international movement powered by the younger generation, which involves skipping lessons on Fridays to protest peacefully in their local town. I originally found out about this movement by a teacher at school who whispered a single name: Greta Thunberg.

After looking up this name, I discovered a story that intrigued me massively. Greta Thunberg is a 16-year-old climate activist with Asperger’s, a disorder on the autistic spectrum. She inspired thousands of young people and adults by sitting outside Swedish parliament every Friday with a sign that read ‘Skolstrejk För Klimatet’ or ‘School Strike For Climate’. This caused a worldwide movement which can now also be known as ‘Fridays for Future’

A global movement of young adults take a stand on climate issues. Photo: Uma Jacklin and ‘Youth Strike for Climate’.

I think this movement is urgently needed. The crisis point for our planet was many years ago. We now have only 12 years left before we set off an irreversible chain reaction beyond human control in which this earth and everything on it will perish.

We have procrastinated about this issue for long enough. We have no choice but to reduce our emissions now or regret not making a critical change in the years to come. We made a mistake by not acting sooner. But we still have a small chance. If we start to jump high enough now we can take the opportunity. But it has to be right now. Otherwise our beautiful, beautiful planet will slip away from us. All because politicians and people in power deny that this issue even exists or that it costs too much money. That is a very dangerous lie. It will mean the end of our planet if these people cannot be honest with us.

And this is why I decided to miss school on May 24 and June 21 to attend my local strike. And I will continue to do so. At least younger people are making an effort, playing their part. Young people shouldn’t have to lead us on this issue. It is the most present and important issue of our generation. Adults need to stop acting like children. As a result, children have started acting like adults. There is no time for materialistic people who only care about their own lives and their own fortune. We were given compassion and kindness for a reason. Let’s start now. No one is too small to make a difference.

The school strike involves walking with placards on a planned route around the city or town, with speeches from local politicians and activists. It is a simple procedure really, but such an amazing thing to do. When I went the first time, I was honestly amazed and shocked to be surrounded by so many people just like me, people who cared so strongly about something I did and people who mirrored my thoughts in every way.

I am generally an introverted and

shy person; however, the march was the first time I felt like I came out of my shell. I never thought I’d be able to shout chants and parade around streets in the way that I did. It felt rebellious but in a good way. Instead of spray painting walls or breaking the law, we have to repair the house we have broken.

It was one of the rare times I felt connected to everyone around me, even if I didn’t know their names. We were connected by a common interest that fuelled us, and I would encourage everyone to feel this truly incredible experience. To be a little rebellious and to do something that you will remember fondly and proudly.

I hope we can replace our procrastination with determination. No one likes change. But we are changing.

Our earth is changing. We have to stop hanging onto the past and change with it. Do it for the tiny insect you saved in nursery when other kids tried to kill it. Do it for the people who you want to look proudly upon you. Do it for every living thing on this planet, as we are destroying their home. We owe this planet a very large debt. And the time has come to pay it off.

UN Secretary General António Guterres has endorsed the school strikes, admitting that, “My generation has failed to respond properly to the dramatic challenge of climate change. This is deeply felt by young people. No wonder they are angry.”

The science behind climate change was done… and only denial, ignorance and inaction remain.

So young adults are doing it for themselves. The game must change.

As Greta Thunberg advised, “We can’t change the world by playing by the rules, because the rules have to be changed”.

Uma Jacklin is the 15-year-old daughter of regular ‘Musings in the Mire’ columnist David Jacklin. Uma stepped up to provide this very appropriate article to explain how young people today feel about climate change and their thoughts on the critical issue. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

COMMUNITY 13

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Pay close attention to signs on the beach.

Check wave patterns. Photo: Humphrey Muleba / Pexels

Staying safe in the surf Top tips for spotting beach hazards and signs of drowning The Phuket News editor1@classactmedia.co.th

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he southwestern monsoon has arrived, turning Phuket beaches into dangerous traps for unwitting swimmers.

Strong waves and swirling foam do little to prevent some beachgoers from entering the water, sadly often to their deaths. Here’s what to look out for on your next trip to the beach.

BEACH HAZARDS Rip currents Rip currents are the biggest hazard on beaches during rainy season. If you swim outside the area marked by redyellow flags, there is a chance you will get caught by one.

Rips are very strong and narrow currents of water, moving directly from the shore cutting through breaking waves. The key is spotting the hazard.

Rips often look like a safe spot, a dark gap in the line of breaking waves. Don’t let it mislead you: what looks like a safe place is actually a dangerous trap.

If caught in a rip, the main thing is not to panic; the rip won’t pull you under the water. Don’t try to swim against the rip directly to the shore. The rip is too strong even for a trained swimmer.

Instead, swim sideways, parallel to the shore, to get out of the current and only then turn to the beach. If other people are present on the beach, raise your hand to give a signal of being in trouble.

Waves Waves in Phuket can reach up to three metres during low season. Unlike the rips, waves are easily visible, but this doesn’t prevent some beachgoers from entering the water without checking whether it’s safe or not. Remember to spend some five minutes watching the sea before proceeding further.

The main hazard is huge plunging waves that curl over and powerfully collapse on the beach surface. Dumping waves are the leading cause of spine injuries on Australia’s beaches. If caught in a wave, stretch your arms forward to protect your head and spine.

Also dangerous are sneaker waves that can form once in a while in some areas. They look like sudden rushing waves that reach far further than others. The waves are powerful enough to @thephuketnews

overwhelm a person and carry them into the ocean. Thus, never turn your back to the sea and always take some time to check the wave pattern.

Rocks Nearly every year rock fishing results in one or more deaths in Phuket. Rocks are exposed to high waves and are very slippery. If you fall off a rock, getting out of the water can be extremely difficult.

All the recommendations provided for waves apply to rocks as well: check the wave pattern before coming close to the water; never turn your back to the ocean (waves can come out of nowhere); and mind every step you take.

Remember that some rocks are covered by water and can thus pose a danger to unsuspecting swimmers or a person willing to dive from a cliff. Note that diving from a cliff in Phuket is a bad idea at any time of the year.

DROWNING DANGERS Recognising an emergency In an aquatic emergency, survival depends on a quick response. A drowning person goes through two stages: aquatic distress and actual drowning.

A swimmer in distress realises that his life is under threat, and as he is capable of intentional actions, he shouts, splashes, tries to attract attention or tries to grab a lifesaving device.

Don’t think that the person is just playing or fooling you. The distress stage doesn’t last long. If not helped, a swimmer in distress will soon become a drowning victim. The second stage presupposes loss of conscious behaviour: all actions are uncontrolled and instinctive.

Thus, real drowning – unlike distress – is silent and fast. It takes from 20 to 60 seconds and doesn’t look like a struggle at all due to what experts call Instinctive Drowning Response (IDR).

This is how IDR was described by Aviation Survival Technician First Class Mario Vittone and Francesco A. Pia Ph.D. for On Scene, The Journal of U. S. Coast Guard Search and Rescue: 1. Except in rare circumstances, drowning people are silent. They are physiologically unable to call out for help.

2. Drowning people’s mouths alternately sink below and reappear above the surface of the water. This time is enough only to exhale and inhale quickly before submerging again.

3. Drowning people cannot wave for help. Nature instinctively forces them to extend their arms laterally and press down on the water’s surface to leverage their bodies so they can lift their mouths out of the water for one breath.

4. Drowning people cannot control their arm movements and perform voluntary movements such as waving for help, moving or grabbing a lifesaving device.

5. Drowning people’s bodies remain upright in the water, with no evidence of a supporting kick.

In cases of both aquatic distress and drowning, the best way to find out if everything is okay is asking. If the person cannot answer, it is time to react – and do it swiftly.

Responding to an emergency In an aquatic emergency, every second counts. The first step is alerting surrounding people. Shout for help, call for lifeguards (if present), wave your hands – informing goes before any actions and the more people alerted, the better.

Lifeguards are professionally trained to respond to emergencies, but around you there can be other people with relevant skills, such as divers, surfers or rescue volunteers. Even if you have undertaken water-safety training in the past, don’t rush to help without informing others about what you are doing.

Always carefully consider the whole situation before going into the water

yourself. If you are unable to swim, find a lifeline or any improvised lifesaving device that you can throw to the person and call 1669. Remember that a person can be brought back to life even after some 5-10 minutes under water.

And if you haven’t done so yet, enroll in water safety, first aid and CPR courses to learn what to do.

If you are in danger If you find yourself in threat while swimming, try to calm down and suppress panic. Rescue will come and your main objective is to call for help and live to see it. Stay calm and don’t panic.

To increase your buoyancy, inhale as much as you can and slowly exhale.

This will help you float and at the same time calm you down. Then try to attract attention by raising one hand and waving it. Don’t try to shout for help before you are stable in the water as this can result in you inhaling water.

Try to search for floating objects that can serve as improvised lifesaving devices and reach for them.

And always remember that prevention of emergency is the best form of survival. Swim only in the designated areas. Don’t go into the water where red flags and signs prohibiting swimming are posted.

‘Beach hazards’ information provided by Dr Rob Brander from the University of New South Wales, referencing material from www.scienceofthesurf.com

14 EVENTS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Comedy value

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Live stand-up at the Marriott on July 15

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a powerful performer in his own right.

Cementing his status in the standup world, Lynn accepted an invitation to perform at the prestigious inviteonly Montreal Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, toured around South Africa, America, Europe and the Middle East, and finally made his long-awaited debut at the Edinburgh Fringe with his solo show Social Networking.

In addition, he joined Tom Stage on his nationwide tour playing to packed houses across the UK.

John Lynn “John Lynn is absolutely compelling…

Hugely entertaining.” – Chortle “The rising star of Irish comedy.” – The Sunday Times John Lynn caught the stand-up bug after a visit to a comedy club in Dublin, quickly discovering that making a clown out of himself wasn’t all that bad. With his laid-back delivery and natural stage presence, Lynn instantly made a splash in his native Ireland. Within eight months of his first gig, Lynn appeared on RTE’s The Liffey Laugh, a feat unheard of for a newcomer.

Soon after being invited to join Irish star PJ Gallagher on tour, Lynn was starring alongside the legendary Tommy Tiernan, launching himself as

Kavin Jay “Southeast Asia’s cleverest and funniest voice.” – Comedy Masala International “Spontaneous, kinetic and straight-up hilarious, Kavin Jay is one of the most talented stand-up comedians in the industry today.” – AugustMan.com Kavin Jay is one of Southeast Asia’s most sought-after comedians and the only Asian comedian listed in the top 10 of The Wrap’s 2018 Best Netflix Comedy Specials.

An integral part of the comedy revolution in Malaysia, he’s a rapid-fire, joke-telling machine. Jay’s intense sense of humour has tickled ribs and charmed audiences of all backgrounds.

He has performed at prestigious comedy festivals around the world, including the Mumbai Comedy Festival, Singapore Fringe, Perth Fringe and

The Phuket News editor1@classactmedia.co.th

ach month, StandUp Asia brings some of the best international comedic talent on the circuit to vibrant, multicultural audiences at the Marriott Resort, Merlin Beach.

This month, on Monday, July 15, will see John Lynn from Ireland, Kavin Jay from Malaysia and Sam See from Singapore take to the stage for a side-splitting evening of original comedy. Here’s what to expect.

Rising star John Lynn.

Mr. Kavin Jay.

Edinburgh Fringe, just to name a few.

Jay is politically incorrect, intense and shows a warped sense of love, life and liver.

Sam See “Within seconds, he has the audience laughing, clapping and clinging onto his every word.” – Rice Media “Whip-smart, risqué.”– Esquire Sam See has entertained audiences from around the globe for over half a decade with his unique blend of jokes, stories and improvised humour. Based in Singapore, he has starred alongside world-class comedians, including Jim Jefferies, Dara Ó Briain, Bert Kreischer, Gina Yashere and Kevin Bridges.

He has also headlined shows internationally in Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Oman, the Philippines and Thailand, just to name a few.

See has appeared on MTV, iflix, Comedy Central Asia and The Jim Jefferies Show, and has been selected for numerous comedy festivals, including the Singapore Comedy Fringe Festival, Crackhouse Comedy Carnival and

Come and see Sam See. Magners International Comedy Festival. The future is very bright for this whip-smart comedian.

Doors open at 7pm, show starts at 8pm.

Tickets are on sale now from B350 (early bird), 650 THB (show only), B950 (burger, two Moosehead beverages and show), B1,200 (hotel buffet and show) or B1,450 (VIP, free-flow drinks from 7-10pm and meet-and-greet with the comedians). Get your tickets via the Phuket Ticketmaster website.

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

HEALTH 15

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Deep breaths, deep sleep The ‘filling and emptying the glass’ exercise that helps insomnia LET’S GET BENT Kim White kim@mindbodyyogasystem.com

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ello and welcome to another glorious month in Phuket.

As I have mentioned before, I am fortunate enough to introduce many people to their first ever yoga class and I consider it such a blessing!

I see people from all walks of life and happily help them find what yoga means for them. I do this by listening to what they are saying, observing how their bodies move and also by feeling out their vibe.

I hear a lot of different stories about life issues, body injuries and mental struggles. However, one of the most common complaints I hear is sleeplessness and a busy mind they cannot shut off. So this month I thought I would share with you an amazing little breathing exercise that I teach to so many people, with great results. The great thing about this exercise is that it is very simple and is achievable by anyone with a little bit of practice and patience.

I call this exercise ‘filling and emptying the glass’. Let’s go through the steps together.

1. You can lie on your back or take a sitting position or you can even stand.

This exercise can literally be done anywhere!

2. Place one of your hands on your belly and place the other on your chest.

3. Close your eyes and just observe the natural flow of your breath. Most of you will feel that the hand on the chest moves more than the hand on the belly.

If the hands are not moving much at all, this means you are taking very shallow breaths. We need to fix this!

4. As you observe the natural flow of your breath, I want you to contemplate that your belly and your chest are a glass and your breath is the water.

When you pour water into a glass, the water fills up from the bottom of the glass up to the top. When you empty water from a glass, it empties from the top of the glass down to the bottom. We are going to manipulate our breath in

@thephuketnews

the same way.

5. First we will work just on half the glass. On your next inbreath, bypass the breath filling the chest and direct your breath to fill the belly first instead. It may feel a little weird if you have not done this before but persevere and you will get better.

6. Work just on breathing into the belly (half the glass) for about a minute.

7. When you feel more comfortable with the belly breath, we will work on filling the entire glass. So on your next inbreath, bypass the breath filling the chest and direct your breath to fill the belly first, then keep the belly full and continue to breathe into the chest. Now both belly and chest are full.

8. When you take your outbreath, keep the belly full, release the chest first and then continue to release the belly.

This is our exercise: inbreath, belly fills first then chest; outbreath, chest releases first then belly.

Spend a minimum of three minutes on this exercise, but my suggestion is to spend as much time as you can with it whenever you have a chance. The breathing out technique may seem weird and uncomfortable at first, but as you live in your body more and practice the movements, you will improve.

So why is this exercise so good for restlessness and busy minds? You will notice that as you work on the breathing exercise, you have to concentrate on what you are doing. You cannot be half daydreaming if you do this exercise properly. When you concentrate on this simpler task of breathing, your mind pulls away from busy thought and starts to relax into the rhythm of the body, shifting you from living in your busy brain on the frontal temple and moving the thought processes back to the relaxed brain which is more in the middle of the head.

When the brain shifts, the entire body also receives a different message from the brain and starts to shift into relaxed mode too.

I find this exercise so much better for insomnia than counting sheep. It has never made sense to me to imagine jumping sheep in an already busy mind!

Jumping sheep are not calm and relaxed, neither is trying to imagine them.

Is your glass half empty or half full?

When you feel like the world is caving in and your brain may explode, think back to this little article and take the time to empty your cup of the busyness

and start filling it with calm clarity.

Happy breathing.

Metta, Kim oxo

Green therapy 16 GARDENING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

The many mental and physical benefits of gardening GREEN THOUGHTS Patrick Campbell

Gardens are oases of greenery in our concrete landscapes. Tend and nurture your garden. In so doing, you will be nurturing yourself.

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ave you ever encountered an unhappy gardener? Not often, I would guess. Gardening is a positive, enriching and even therapeutic activity. The Journal of Mental Health, researching the effects – of all things – of allotment gardening, found significantly improved feelings of wellbeing in most of the 136 participants.

There is nothing new about such claims. A number of other studies reinforce such a view. From the time when mentally disturbed Egyptian royalty were prescribed soothing walks in palace gardens, to the use of therapeutic gardening to assist World War One soldiers suffering from neurasthenia, there has been a proven nexus between such “green” activities and improved physical and mental recovery rates, including reduced stress, a better sense of wellbeing and even increased self-esteem.

In his 17th century poem The Garden, Andrew Marvell famously described such immersion as trance-like: “annihilating all that’s made / To a green thought in a green shade”.

Personally, I experience another, perhaps more mundane, benefit – feelings of satisfaction and optimism generated from contemplating all that silent and magical vegetable growth that is taking place beyond the house walls. Buds opening, roots delving, leaves unfurling, seeds sprouting, flowers bursting into bloom. Come a new day, I will venture out into a kaleidoscopic world, a living tapestry where everything has subtly changed.

Such feelings are allied to another sensation: the sense of fulfillment and reward that comes with being creative in a horticultural sense – by planting seeds or helping plants propagate and thrive, by striking cuttings, feeding parched root systems, dividing rhizomes or removing dead or diseased branches. And every gardener has experienced the sheer joy of harvesting produce nurtured from small beginnings. I recall with pleasure my father’s sense of pride when bringing home peas, carrots, cabbages, tomatoes and potatoes. Sunday lunch always tasted better when accompanied by fresh vegetables. Or his pleasure in presenting any visitor with a bouquet of cut flowers taken straight from the garden.

It does not stop there. What about gardening for exercise? In a comprehensive study at Michigan State University, researchers found that 2.5 hours of gardening each week reduced risks of obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, heart disease and even premature death. It is an activity that exercises not only the arms but also the legs – a great way to involve the whole body. And in an even more striking

Photo: Chuck Kennedy finding, the study concluded that people who opted for gardening as their main physical activity each week were likely to exercise 40-50 minutes longer than those who chose activities such as biking or walking. The feel-good factor.

There is growing evidence that gardening helps in other measurable ways.

In an increasingly urbanised world, the presence of plants and especially shrubs and trees in our own borders or, for flat dwellers, in nearby parks and community gardens, enriches the very air we breathe. All photosynthesising plants absorb potentially harmful carbon dioxide, sequestering it and releasing life-enhancing oxygen back into the atmosphere. Just for the record, they also intercept harmful airborne particulates, save water and prevent soil erosion and flooding.

One study recently found that trees prevented nearly a million cases of respiratory disease and removed an estimated 17 tonnes of atmospheric pollutants in one year. In the same timescale, one substantial tree provided enough oxygen for 18 people. And the nearer they are to human habitation, the more their health-giving impact on people’s lives. Trees in your garden? An especial treasure!

We are not the only benefactors either. Gardens are a haven for innumerable species of insects including butterflies and bees. Shrubs and leafy trees provide cover for birds, your lily pond is home to frogs and fishes.

More mundanely, gardens increase property values and help pay the grocery bill. If you have a decent garden in Thailand, there is little excuse for not growing your own produce since most of the world’s edible vegetables and fruits thrive in this most fecund of environments. Just visit your neighbourhood market and you will see what a cornucopia of fruits and vegetables are grown in your locality. Are you doing likewise?

The natural world has been long extolled by philosophers and poets able to empathise with its “good vibrations”.

Thus the poet Wordsworth wrote more than two centuries ago: “One impulse

from a vernal wood / May teach us more of man / Of moral evil and of good / Than all the sages can”. This might seem like an extravagant claim but grant him a modicum of poetic licence.

After all, what he means is something all nature lovers everywhere subscribe to: the restorative and benevolent force of nature. In what is more a Buddhist than Christian “impulse”, the poet avers that walking in a wood where spring is springing is an enspiriting experience; a place where we feel a sense of kinship with other living things, at one with the universe.

While few of us nowadays can enjoy a bucolic existence, every gardener can testify to the beneficent, even the therapeutic power of Mother Nature. If we cannot walk among the bluebells in “a vernal wood” or marvel at a lake ablaze with lotus blooms, where better to experience nature’s presence than in our own garden: smelling the earth after a freshening shower, inhaling the perfume from a jasmine flower or listening to the chorus of cicadas.

The garden has always been a precious microcosm of the natural world at large. Today, its ecological importance is massive – and getting more and more so. As green spaces vanish everywhere, as habitats for wild creatures shrink and as man is increasingly confined to an unnatural existence in apartments or condominiums, our gardens fulfill a crucial role – oases of greenery in our concrete landscapes. Tend and nurture your garden. In so doing, you will be nurturing yourself.

Patrick has been writing for thirteen years about gardening in Phuket and allied topics. If you have horticultural or environmental concerns, please contact him at drpaccampbell@gmail. com. Many of his earlier creative and academic publications can be found at Wordpress: Green Galoshes. Patrick will shortly be publishing ‘The Tropic Gardener’, an indispensable guide to Southeast Asia’s flowering plants, based on his experience of gardening in Phuket. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

EDUCATION 17

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Class of 2019.

HeadStart Graduation 2019

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Gemma Caines

he end of the school year is always a bittersweet moment, combining the excitement of the approaching holidays with the sadness of leaving friends, teachers and classmates behind. This is most true for those in their final year of school who, as young men and women, are well and truly ready to make the leap into adult life but perhaps feel some trepidation about what lies ahead as they leave school and home for their next adventure.

It was thus with enthusiastic affection but more than one tearful eye that HeadStart waved goodbye to the Class of 2019 on June 24. They are a diverse bunch, full of unique individuals and talents. Some 16 different nationalities are represented, a veritable league of nations where Brits play football alongside Koreans, Venezuelans plan science experiments with Americans, and Thais learn history alongside Lithuanians.

More impressive than their different passports, to someone having worked in international schools for many years, is the sheer variety of academic interests represented in the university courses our graduates are set on pursuing.

There is much to celebrate in the fact that almost a third of our students are destined for universities ranked in the top 50 in the world (according to QS World University Rankings) and that a quarter received offers of significant financial aid to contribute towards the cost of their studies. But most important of all is that each and every student has left school with a clear plan, and every student who submitted a university application has been placed on the course of their choice.

And what a diverse set of choices they have made. Students have done particularly well in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), going off to study Medicine, Biological Sciences, Aeronautical Engineering, Computer Science, @thephuketnews

Psychology and Chiropractic Science.

Unsurprisingly, given our location, students have also shown an interest in commerce and hospitality, and are holding offers to study Hospitality Management, International Business Management and even Agribusiness.

That does not mean that creativity is on the sideline. HeadStart graduates will soon be embarking on degree courses in Fashion Design, Art, Literature and even Film Production.

Social Sciences have also been strong this year, with students successfully applying for Law, Politics and even the prestigious PPLE (Philosophy, Politics, Law and Economics).

Their destinations are equally far-flung: the UK, Canada, the Netherlands, Australia, Malaysia, Spain, the USA, to name just a few. It’s so rewarding working with high-achieving young people with such a wide range of ambitions, and we wish them the very best of luck as they embark on these courses.

However, when it came to the graduation ceremony, what was most striking was not the individual successes but the community that these very different young people have forged together.

There were speeches that thanked inspiring teachers and expressed gratitude for the opportunities school had provided (sports, leadership, trips to New York and productions all got honourable mentions) as different students spoke about their time with us. However, the word that was used most often by our leavers as they reminisced about their time at HeadStart was “family”.

All of them acknowledged that things had not always been easy and that examinations and university applications on top of the usual personal challenges that inevitably arise meant that life had been stressful at times.

All gratefully recognised the vital role that their teachers and friends had played, and what they as individuals had each done, in supporting the group as a whole to be where they stood at that moment: successful and ready to move on to their next exciting chapter.

It is that sense of “family” in its tru-

est form – a group of people who share values, support each other’s goals, respect and love each other despite their differences and are committed to each other – that the Class of 2019 most remembered about their time at school. If they take this with them as they head

off into the big wide world, we will be very proud of them indeed.

Gemma Caines is the Head of Sixth Form at HeadStart International School. For more information, visit headstartphuket.com

18 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Greeting a host of supporters and well-wishers.

Meeting rescued dugongs Mariam and Yamil who have taken Thai social media sites by storm.

Marking the official opening of the Chalong Underpass.

PRIME MINISTER PRAYUT CHAN-O-CHA SPENDS BUSY DAY IN PHUKET Thailand’s Prime Minister paid a visit to Phuket on July 8 with a jam-packed schedule that saw him officially open the Chalong Underpass, meet rescued dugongs Mariam and Yamil at the Phuket Marine Biological Research Center, pay respect to “The Father of Thai Navy” Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse at the Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command, preside over a full-scale disaster-response exercise at the Phuket Deep Sea Port and visit the port's Development Project before returning to Bangkok on the same day.

Presiding over the full- scale tsunami disaster-response exercise.

Rocking up to Phuket Deep Sea Port.

Reporting for duty.

Joking with the crowd, the PM compared Phuket traffic to that of Bangkok. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ISLAND SCENE 19

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Andrew, Ian, Suzanne and Warwick.

Kay and Lies.

FULL STEAM AHEAD AT JULY’S GROW BOATING NETWORKING EVENING The monthly Grow Boating Networking Evening, held on June 5 at the Lagoon Saloon, Boat Lagoon Marina, yet again brought together a healthy ensemble of people from Phuket’s marine industry. Topics of choice on the night ranged from the Phoenix fallout, to marine safety overall in Phuket, to the upcoming Multhull Solutions Regatta and Phuket Raceweek Regatta. All topped off with superb free burgers from the Lagoon Saloon and discounted libations fit for a Friday evening.

Rob Crickmore, Richard Pope, Marcel Bechstedt, Maria Sergeeva, Mink Yongsakul and Michael Nurtbatlian.

Stella Lucia, Mink Yongsakul, Mai Yongsakul, Pia Nippard and Ben Tabuteau.

KATA ROCKS PAINTS PHUKET RED WITH COLLECTIVE SERIES 15 PARTY Kata Rocks’ Collective Series 15 (CS15) returned on July 8 in style with a ‘Red Affair’ party that produced an epic evening of flirtatious fun. Those in attendance dressed in red and gold and ended up dancing the night away to house classics, seductive beats and future funk mix performed by Kata Rocks’ resident DJ Wii from sunset till late. There were also several innovative performance art pieces that kept guests entertained as well as handcrafted drinks and gourmet canapes.

Judges: Amy, Azad, Sandy, Sai and Hans.

The event made a splash.

SPLASH BEACH RESORT WELCOMES TCEB CHINESE MICE DELEGATION On July 2, Splash Beach Resort hosted the 2019 Familiarisation MICE Group in collaboration with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and Conference & Destination Management Thailand. The group focused on MICE attraction and venues which can accommodate large groups with over 500 delegates, such as Splash Beach Resort’s conference centre, which can accommodate 1,000 seated guests.

Well done to all the talented mixologists who took part.

2019 BARTENDER OF THE YEAR CHAMPIONSHIP AT LE MERIDIEN

Buyers spent three days exploring MICE attractions in Phuket. @thephuketnews

On July 5, Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort brought together some of the best bartenders from hotels and resorts across the island and saw them go headto-head in the Marriott 2019 Bartender of the Year Championship. The creative bartenders dreamed up some inventive concoctions, and mixed them with real flair, but it was Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa who ultimately took first prize, winning the judging panel over with their synchronised bartending and ‘Deep Sea’ beverage with floral garnish.

20 EVENTS

FRI

12 JUL

Mussels night @ Shakers 1.2kg mussels served with French fries, your choice, your style: natural, marnière, Provençale, garlic and cream or Thai style. Reservations recommended B295 P/P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

SAT

13 JUL

Light and Fresh Buffet The Watercourt is presenting a line of tasty Italian Cold Cut, Gourmet Salads, Hearty Soup, Flavourful Desserts and Seasonal Fruit. From THB 1,200 net per guest (Choice of Meat & Seafood grilled - Additional). Banyan Tree, The Watercourt,fb-phuket@banyantree.com, 076 372 400.

vations, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong., Kata Beach 076-333-370 Karon 076-286479 Patong 076-344-914.

tticketmaster.com Magic Rock, Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, Phuket.

TUE

16 JUL

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet Beef, Pork and Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, fried mushrooms, grilled tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding – roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes – gravy, mushroom sauce, mint sauce. Reservations recommended. B350 P/P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

MON

15 JUL

ALL YOU CAN EAT BBQ RIBS Come join us for our WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY served ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Indulge in All You Can Eat BBQ Pork Ribs, Chicken and Sides for ONLY 495 BAHT! Our BBQ is famous at Two Chefs! Come try us out and enjoy our mouthwatering pork ribs, flavor-bursting chicken and more! Join us for Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band! Come for the FOOD Stay for the Fun. www.twochefs.com Kata Beach 076-333-370 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344-914.

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

ANDAMAN CATCH TUESDAY Every Tuesday our culinary team prepare a special Andaman Catch menu featuring our fish of the day selection prepared in one of three ways, a special seafood appetiser and a sweet finish dessert. Pair your catch with one of our sommelier selections special offers, available Tuesday only. 950* Baht. 18.30 - 22.00 www.salaphuket.com Advance bookings are recommended - 076 33 8888. *Subject to 10% service charge and 7% value added tax.

Sala Phuket.

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

SUN

14 JUL

All you can eat BBQ night 6pm – 11pm: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns and Squid, Salad buffet, Choice of potatoes and sauces, bread, buns and garlic bread. Reservation recommended.

B395 P/P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

Irish Times - Comedy Night Do not miss JOHN LYNN (Ireland) with special guest KAVIN JAY (Malaysia) and host SAM SEE (Singapore) at Irish Times Pub on Tuesday, 16th July. Tickets are on sale now for 350 THB, which includes one selected drink. Tickets are available for purchase at the venue. For more info - facebook.com/IrishTimesPhuket

Sunday Roast All Day, All Night

Phuket Business Networking - Jul 2019 A small entry fee, THB 500 per person, that includes the first 3 drinks and a light buffet. Make sure to bring lots of business cards, as getting to know each other is what PBN is all about. Location - Ramada Plaza Phuket Chao Fah. Register your attendance here - https://www.facebook. com/events/395819527694538/ or call Jason - 086 479 7471.

Come enjoy a Traditional Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Indulge in our Traditional Sunday Roast ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT for ONLY 445 Baht! Enjoy a Large ALL YOU CAN EAT selection of your favorites! Featuring: Roast Aussie Beef, Pork Loin and Chicken. Roasted or Mashed Potatoes. Roasted Mixed Vegetables Flavored with Thyme and Garlic.

Yorkshire Pudding and Gravy. Enjoy Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band! Come for the FOOD - Stay for the Fun. RESERVE Your Table Now Online at bit.ly/TwoChefsReservations Check out more details on our website at bit.ly/TwoChefsEvents Reser-

JOHN LYNN IN PHUKET Do not miss JOHN LYNN (Ireland) with special guest KAVIN JAY (Malaysia) and host SAM SEE (Singapore) at Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Merlin Beach on Monday, 15th July. Tickets are on sale now for 350 THB (early bird), 650 THB (show only), 950 THB (burger, two selected beverages & show), 1200 THB (hotel buffet & show), or 1450 THB for VIP tickets, which include free-flow drinks from 7-10 PM and meet & greet with the comedians. Tickets are available for purchase at: www.phuke-

Thai Night Buffet Experience Authentic Thai Food. Let’s take a tasteful journey through Thai cuisine, Baan Talay is feature a tempting selections of traditional Thai food and local Phuket delicacies. Enjoy with a variety of live station; Thai papaya salad, spicy soup and much more to give a true taste of Thailand. THB 950++ per person. Every Tuesday from 6 pm to 10 pm. Reservation, Angsana Laguna Phuket, fbreservation-lagunaphuket@angsana.com, 076 358 500. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

EVENTS 21

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

WED

17 JUL

FRI

19 JUL

Meet Brian Jacks at The Cider House

Ribs, beats, brews Wednesday Devour our succulent pork rib set complete with sweet corn chowder, blue cheese salad, moist cornbread and finished off with a bread and butter pudding. DJ Q will keep the soul flowing and your toes tapping as you wash down those tender ribs with a bucket of craft brews. Full Rack set 1,400 Baht, half Rack set 1,100 Baht. Reservations, SALA Phuket, events@salaphuket. com, 076-338-888.

THU

Britain’ first Olympic judo medal winner and multiple British and European Superstar winner. Join us for a unique opportunity to meet Brian Jacks for an open and exciting Q&A session. Limited spaces.

So book your place now by contacting us on Whatsapp +66 93 187 3360 or by texting 089 934 6890. Free entry & free barbecue burgers and hot dogs from 5-6 pm. Friday 19th July - 8pm. at The Cider House Cherntalay. Phil and Andy, The Cider House, Whatsapp +66 93 187 3360 / 089 934 6890.

SUN

28 JUL

18 JUL The Phuket Drum Circle 7th Year

BACK TO THE ’70s & ’80s EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT Don’t miss out on our newest, exciting weekly event at Two Chefs. Come and join us for our special Cajun Grilled Chicken Breast served on a wooden plate with mashed potato, red wine sauce, and bearnaise sauce for ONLY 395 THB. Have a sweet tooth? Treat yourself to the Two Chefs banana flambé served with vanilla ice cream for ONLY 95 THB. Sit back and enjoy one of our drink specials as you listen to the famous Two Chefs band performing all your favorite retro hits and more! Live music starts from 8:30pm and goes late at all of our Two Chefs locations.

Reservations are highly recommended.

You can book on our website at WWW. TWOCHEFS.COM or find us on Facebook at WWW.FACEBOOK/TWOCHEFS THAILAND. Come for the food, stay for the FUN! Reservations, Call us directly at Two Chefs Kata Center 076-330-065, Kata Beach 076-333-370, Karon 076-286479, Patong 076-344-914 @thephuketnews

The Phuket Drum Circle will celebrate the 7th year anniversary on Sunday July 28 in Naiharn Beach from 4:30 pm to about 10:00 pm. This event is always free and open to the public. Participants can drum, dance, or enjoy the scenery and good vibes. Experience the magic of community drumming and dancing! For updates and videos visit the Facebook page: Phuket Drum Circle

FRI

Bar and Restaurant, at The Ao Po Grand Marina from 5pm onward. Please contact us if you would like to be our drinks sponsors. Sponsorship is available from 10,000 baht and includes a generous advertising package from The Phuket News. There will be a light buffet sponsored by the Port of Call bar and restaurant and special prices on your favourite beverages. Come and join in the fun, everyone is welcome.

There is no entry fee, just drop your business card or register at the bar. To join our mailing list please send an email growboatingphuket@gmail.com Grow Boating is kindly supported by our media partner The Phuket News, Live 89.5 radio and Phuket News TV. The Grow Boating Networking Evening is organised by the Thai Yachting Business Association. Find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ groups/491098897758155/ or our Website https://www.thaiyachtingbusinessassociation.com/

FRI

1 NOV

The Exotic Fishing Thailand 1.5 Million Baht Tagged Fish Challenge From Nov 1st to March 1st. Test your fishing skills Phuket and Catch a Monster fish and Monster Prize.

50 tagged fish with 50 prizes valued at over 1.5 Million baht. Anyone can enter for just 1,000 baht in addition to your daily fishing ticket ................. Exotic Fishing Thailand, Exotic Fishing Thailand, Phang Nga, exoticfishingthailand@gmail.com, English 088 379 9377 and Thai 081 199 5922.

EVERY DAY Kata Rocks - Four Hands Michelin Starred Dinner Kata Rocks is hosting Chef Thomas Diepersloot from Michelin-starred Restaurant Voltaire in Leersum, the Netherlands. This will be a very exclusive “FOUR HANDS” dinner event; Chef Thomas will partner with executive chef Laia (one of the leading female chefs in Phuket) to present a six-course dinner in one of the iconic Penthouse Sky Pool Villas, limited to 20 guests, for two night only (2 and 3 August). Priced at THB 6,000 net per guest for the six-course menu with drink pairings overlooking the Andaman Sea. Make your bookings today at dining@katarocks.com

FRI

QSI Summer Camp 2019

9 AUG

Open to all children from 5 - 12 years of age. American curriculum intensive. English course with the option of Map testing at the end of the camp. Each student receives 2 Tee shirts and a cap as well as daily snacks and lunch. Sign up today at phuket@qsi.org or call 076 304 312.

2 AUG PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards 2019

Grow Boating Networking Evening The Grow Boating Networking Evening for August 2019 will be held at The Port of Call

Celebrate Thailand’s finest developers by nominating them for the industry’s most prestigious awards. With a professionally run judging system supervised by the award-winning team of BDO, one of the world’s largest auditing and accountancy firms, the Asia Property Awards is the gold standard in real estate. Gala Dinner & Awards on 9 August 2019 at The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok.

Prime at Rock Salt Prime at Rock Salt is the home of smoke and fire at Naiharn Beach. An exclusive eatery, Prime offers a collection of roasted, smoked and chargrilled creations from its custom-designed kitchen. The al fresco dining experience is completed with panoramic ocean views across Naiharn Beach.

Open Daily 6.00 – 10.00 pm at Naiharn Beach For more information and bookings, please call +66 76 380 200 or rocksalt@thenaiharn.com

22 TIME OUT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 1. What height is the grass on the tennis courts at Wimbledon cut to?

2. China has successfully developed a facial recognition app for which animal?

3. Globally, how many bags go missing at airports each year?

4. A ‘Warhol’ is a unit for measuring what?

5. What is the lifespan of a dugong?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

Hard

Across 1. Drs.’ group 4. Photo finish?

7. Shoebox marking 10. Fair-weather system 12. A wife of Jacob 14. Do some tubthumping 15. Outdo 17. Accordingly 18. “Yow!” 19. VP hopefuls 22. Part of a living room set 23. Pulls the plug on 27. Dolls of the 80s 28. Shelley’s “___ Skylark” 30. “___ lied!”

31. Remark, with bon 32. 2004 election dispute subject 35. Compass point 37. “As I see it,” in e-mail 38. Madame, for short 39. Gallup’s specialty 44. Heart printout, for short 45. Director Lee 46. ____ gow poker 47. Application datum, abbr.

50. Art of riding horses 52. Duke of Florence Cosmo ___ 54. Where electors enter

their choices 58. He plays Sam in “Transformers” 61. “Pow!” 62. Honkers 63. Axed 64. Trickle 65. N.Y.C. gallery 66. Genre of Fall Out Boy 67. Wrestler’s goal 68. Daughter of Richard and Mary Bobbsey

21. McCormack of ‘Will & Grace’ 24. Eastern V.I.P. 25. Central point 26. A Cadillac 29. Winery process 30. Pry on 32. Chief layer 33. Little Dickens 34. Gilbert and Sullivan’s “___ Pinafore” 35. Shelter grp.

36. Indicator 39. Original Down manufactured 1. What Richard equipment, for III offered “my short kingdom” for 40. Cassio’s rival 2. Ballroom dance 41. Kind of punch 3. Promoters 42. Gentle one 4. First name in 43. Rest atop fashion 47. Squelches 5. Salon request 48. Blueprint 6. Star Wars, e.g.

49. ____ Altima 7. __ de Cologne 51. “Almighty” one, in a 8. Abbr. at the bottom 2007 film of a letter 53. Tragedy 9. Addis Ababa’s land 55. Pancake maker (abbr.)

56. Fascist 11. Chase game 57. “The X-Files” extras 13. Ball game snack 58. 1965 Ursula 14. Parks of civil rights Andress film 16. Michelangelo 59. Garment border masterpiece 60. W.W. II battle site, 20. Night light for short

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) 8 millimetres; 2) Pandas; 3) 24 million; 4) Fame. One Warhol = 15 minutes of fame; 5) 70 years or more.

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

3

of the 4 smokestacks on the Titanic worked. The fourth was added for symmetry.

40

percent of people in Vietnam have the last name ‘Nguyen’, making it nearly impossible for them to trace their heritage beyond a generation or two.

168

errors have been found in the film Armageddon by NASA who ask managers to spot them as part of their training.

29,218

US dollars is the top prize in the Sri Lankan version of the TV game show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?

5.5 million

Polish people, one-sixth of the population at the time, signed a card in 1926 as a gift to the US to celebrate 150 years of their independence.

Source: Uberfacts

A nocturnal visitor. Photo by Cynthia Tomaszewski Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket? Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

This week in history July 12, 1962 The Rolling Stones perform their first concert, at London’s Marquee Club. 57 years on, the band are still performing.

July 13, 1863 In New York City, opponents of conscription begin three days of rioting, the worst in US history.

July 14, 1789 Citizens of Paris storm the Bastille – King Louis XVI’s state

July 17, 2014 Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 crashes near the border of Ukraine and Russia after being shot down. All 298 people on board are killed.

prison – signalling the start of the French Revolution.

July 15, 2006 Twitter is launched and goes on to become one of the largest social media platforms in the world.

Currently, 500 million tweets are sent a day.

July 16, 1661 The first banknotes in Europe are issued by Swedish bank Stockholms Banco. The bank collapsed

The Rolling Stones in the ’60s. after it was unable to honour requests for the credit to be transferred into metal coinage.

July 18, 1925 Adolf Hitler publishes Mein Kampf.

(My Struggle). The original title – Four-and-a-Half Years of Struggle Against Lies, Stupidity, and Cowardice – was shortened by his publisher.

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 23

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Jobs

N GE UR

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Personal Assistant

For retired UK/CAD businessman in high end resort. Good English, some driving, shopping etc. Part Time OK. Brian 089 054 4354. @thephuketnews

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

ART HOUSE DEVELOPMENT

Looking for Russian speaking marketing representative with good communication skills high motivated and confident training will be provided. info@ arthouse.asia, 089 594 6888

GE UR

NT

House keeper / maid Nai Harn

Seeking a full time maid / house keeper at a private villa in Nai Harn. Please text your facebook link along with a message to 099-398-5375 for consideration. Bobby, 099-398-5375.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 25

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Trades & Services

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

ADVERTISING SERVICES

CLEANING SERVICES

CORPORATE SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

MARINE SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

@thephuketnews

26 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Trades & Services

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

classifieds@thephuketnews.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT

MARINE SERVICES

OTHER

PROPERTY SERVICES

TRAINING

ADVERTISE HERE

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 27

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Buy & Sell

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Car for sale

Golden Business Opportunity

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Car For Sale

Ford Fiesta 2012 For sale English 095 420 9662 Thai 082 629 1419 Janthisa Jaikwang, 199/14 หม ู ่ 5 ตำ�บลศร สี นุ ทร อำ�เภอถลาง จังหวัดภ เู กต็ , B 250,000 info@lifestyleinthailand.com, 0826291419

MEMBERSHIPS

Car rental @fair prices

We offer car rentals at affordable prices. Monthly from 10,000 Baht. Daily from 400 Baht. Call us to find out what we offer.

10,000 Monthly. Stig Johansson, 110/78 Moo 2 T Paklok A Thalang 83110 Phuket, stigisaan@gmail.com, 0848474377.

CARS, TRUCKS FOR SALE Mitsubishi Mirage 10/2018

9 months old, 9,000KM, first class insurance.

Like new. THB 360,000. Andy, Call 082 281 5976 ENG/098 059 8714 THAI

FORD WILDTRAK 2014 FOR SALE

2.2L Double Cab 4WD 6 GearAutomatic.

One owner. 50,000km. ARB Crash Bars.

New Tyres. English: 081-958-1055 Thai: 081-606-5772 580,000 baht, pauljames@ expathotel.com, 0819581055

@thephuketnews

Willing to sell or rent your property in Laguna area? Please contact me raisa@rl-property. com +66 (081) 737 1687 (Viber, WhatsApp, Line) Raisa Sheludkina, Railand Property International., 46., Lagoon Road.,Cherngtalay. ,Thalang.,Phuket 83110., raisa@rl-property. com, 0817371687, 076324448.

Chevrolet Trailblazer LTZ 2.8 CC. 4X4 For sale English 095 420 9662 Thai 082 629 1419 janthisa jaikwang, 199/14 หม ู ่ 5 ตำ�บลศร สี นุ ทร อำ�เภอ ถลาง จังหวัดภ เู ก ็ต, info@lifestyleinthailand.com, B 725,000

CARS, TRUCKS FOR RENT GE

Willing to Sell / Rent Property in Laguna?

Bought 30th Dec 2015 we paid baht 1,500,000 sell for 890,000 or nearest offer. 062 956 5777.

Brand new two story massage shop for sale with high end furniture. 10 Beds, 6 chairs and nail Salon. Great opportunity for high season. B900,000 ono, Lek, Soi Post Office, Patong Beach Road, sweet_lek55@hotmail.com, 099 362 7979

UR

PROPERTY WANTED

Car for sale

Refurbished Restaurant & Bar

Recently refurbished restaurant & bar for sale in Karon, Phuket, with accom located above. CCTV fitted throughout the building. The business is up for sale for 1.9MB or near offer and includes all fixtures, fittings and stock at point of sale. 062 210 1368. newconceptbars.thailand@gmail.com

T EN

@thephuketnews

CARS, TRUCKS FOR SALE

BUSINESSES FOR SALE T EN

The Phuket News

Allamanda 2 Bed Freehold

Hi, Am looking for a 2 Bedroom Freehold Unit at the Allamanda in Laguna.

Budget is 8million baht. Can contact me on wandererthomas1@gmail.com Thanks in advance!

BLUE CANYON GOLF MEMBERSHIP

425,000 THB and Seller pays the transfer fee. For more information call 098 946 0709. Rob George.

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

House Wanted in Chalong

4 Bedroom House Wanted in Chalong for under 10 million baht. Please email me at mick11468@gmail.com

BABY GRAND w/ DISC PLAYER

“Classic” Baby Grand Piano with “Disc Player”. In perfect condition. 7 years old. Original price 428,000 THB. 170,000, Phuket Town, daryldavies9@gmail. com, 080 159 5239

PROPERTY WANTED The Chava Surin - Freehold

Hi, Am looking for a Freehold Condominium Unit at The Chava in Surin. Please email details to mick11468@@gmail.com . Many thanks! Michael

Mandala Condo Freehold Wanted

Foreign Freehold Wanted for Mandala Condominium in Kamala. Please email details to mick11468@gmail.com.

U RG

ENT

3 Bedroom Condo Wanted

Looking for 3 Bed Condo/Apartment any area of Phuket for 3million Thai Baht or thereabouts. Please email mick11468@gmail.com. Thanks! B3,000,000, Mike

SPORTING GOODS, EXERCISE GYM EQUIPMENT TREADMILL

LIFE FITNESS F1 TREADMILL - FOLDABLE Brand new: THB 35,000+(VAT) from retail price of 188,000 Compact foldable treadmill. 35000, carolinelaleta@gmail.com, +66869504961

28 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Buy & Sell PROPERTY FOR SALE Super villa for sale

Super villa for sale. 4 bed, 4 bath, 450 sqm private pool villa, 500 sqm land, Heavily reduced price 14.9M. Call +66 (0) 92-6950329 15.000.000,-, +66 (0) 92-6950329.

UR

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Apartment Block in Soi Ta-Eiad

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RPM by owner

Unique luxury condo 2 bed, 2 bath, 155sqm. Foreign FREE HOLD. Architect remodel in tropical white. Jacuzzi. All round beautiful views. Completely furnished to a high standard. Very motivated owner leaving Thailand. Available to agents. Priced just REDUCED to 15MB or offers. Contact Brian (Owner) 089 054 4354, 076 360 943. bggvirgo@gmail.com

OCEAN FRONT LAND

7 Rai with 185 meter of ocean frontage, 800 meter from Yacht Haven Marina on Phangnga side, water, electricity, concrete road on the back of property, building permission for 12 two storey pool villas. For sale direct by owner for only 6 mln Baht per Rai. + 66 95 0147888.

Karon 1 Bed Condo for Sale

Karon Butterfly hillside condo for sale just 800m from beach. Amenities close by. Fully furnished and condo facilities. Great investment in great area of Phuket. Shuttle Bus to Beach and Rental Program. A must see!!!! B4,300,000, Dmitry , phuket@thairesidential.com

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Paul MOORHOUSE

‘Frontline’ sea view villa overlooking Ao Yon Bay and the southern islands.

Magnificent property with private elevator, 4 bedroom suites/6 bathrooms as well as 2 living areas, European design kitchen, games room, bar, sauna, steam room and wonderful pool deck with in-ground jacuzzi, infinity pool and waterfall. Fabulous property reduced to 65 million Baht for quick sale. 0898737075.

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1 Bed Condo in Kamala

Great 1 Bed Condo just 200m fromKamala Beach. Comes with pool and on- site restaurant. Fantastic location and not to be missed. Fully furnished with appliances. Homestay or investment. B5,417,000. Call Andy. 083 800 1888

OCEAN FRONT VILLA

@thephuketnews

LE

44 sqm Condo for sale at The Deck Patong – Parking space included – Quiet Unit – Listed first on AirBnB. +66937198098.

3 Bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 10 meter infinity swimming pool, maid quarter, fully furnished and ready to move in, usable area of over 330 sqm, very convenient located in a gated community at the south end of Aopor, 50 meter from the ocean, 150 meter from the new Sheraton Grand Bay Resort , 3 minutes from Grand Aopor Marina, 20 minutes from Airport and shopping centers, for sale directly by owner 22.9 mln. + 66 95 0147888.

The Phuket News

PROPERTY FOR SALE

CONDO FOR SALE THE DECK PATONG

Amazing residential block for sale comprising of 5 x 190sqm fully furnished 3 Bedroom Units. Highest quality fixtures and finishing’s with exceptional build quality. All units have internal surround sound systems and wireless internet routed in the walls. Full Western kitchen in all units. Rooftop Salt Water Swimming Pool with 8 person Jacuzzi and bar. Spectacular panoramic views. Units currently being rented out with almost 100% occupancy, so fantastic investment opportunity. Potential returns of 9% per annum. B61,500,000, Tina, phuket@thairesidential.com

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Wonderful 1 Bedroom Condo near Central Festival area. Just 10 minutes to Panwa Beach. A must see!!! Fully furnished and conveniently located.

Amenities close by as well as tourist attractions. Full condo facilities.

B2,500,000, Tina, phuket@thairesidential.com, 0948411918.

Rawai 1 Bed Seaview Condo Sale

Fantastic seaviews. Fully furnished. Condo facilities including pool and gym. Close to amenities. This 53sqm condo at Babylon Sky Garden is a great buy. B4,297,277, Andy, phuket@ thairesidential.com

2 Bed Condo Bangtao Phuket

Mandala Condominium - Wonderful spacious condo. Great location near Bangtao beach and Laguna. 184sqm with private pool and tropical gardens. B15,900,000, Andy, 083 800 1888

Dream Village Phuket house

2bed 2bath 295sqm land 100sqm living + veranda, compl. renovated: new water, electric., tiles, paint in/out, windows, 3A/C, built in kitchen. 0870608400 English/German. Email: picharly@gmail.com, B4.9mill.

Royal Phuket Marina 2 Bed

2-Bedroom Royal Phuket Marina Condo. Seen to be believed. 195m2 Stylish, Tastefully-Decorated Condominium Fully Furnished Overlooking Yacht Marina an absolute bargain @ 13.5 Million BahtTina, phuket@thairesidential.com, 948411918.

2-Bed Furnished Kathu House for Rent

2bd/2bth furnished house for rent in Kathu near Loch Palm Golf Course. See link for more photos and details. www.kathuhouseforrent.com B13,500, May or Wes, wes@pillarmarketing.com, 0899733276

1 story building for rent

150m2 Located in Allamanda 1 Laguna Phuket is available for rent. The building has its own drive in, at this time only short term rental available. 096 646 6287

PROPERTY FOR RENT Condo in Patong for Rent

Full-furnished studio with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, living room, kitchenette, mountain view, and free wifi.

2 Rooms available; 66 sq.m and 88 sq.m. Start from 25,000 THB/month, Jane, social@karonseasand. com, 062 842 4861

Saturdays Residence beautiful condo in Rawai. Tastefully decorated with class. Short drive to beach. All condo amenities. Looks so good that you do need to see to believe. You will fall in love at first sight. B6,300,000, Dimitry, phuket@thairesidential.com, 082 030 7199

1 Bed Condo in Kamala

MontAzure Twinpalms Residence-Great condo located in Kamala. The ultimate in luxury.

Has got to be seen to be believed. Fantastic facilities in this resort condo. B15,800,000, Tina, 0872699206.

PASAK LAND 3.9MB 510 sq.m. Chanote

PASAK LAND 3.9MB 510 sq.m.

Chanote

Private location in prestige area.

Outstanding Value. Call owner (Alan): 084 0657590.

Villa in Patong prime location

One of the last Villas available in Patong. in top condition. 24 hour security. 3 bed, 3 bath, 160sqm living. Fully furnished, garden.

Ms. Manatchanok, 0800409411

Villa Mission Heights Big Pool

3bed, 3 1/2 bath, 330sqm living, 900 sqm land, very quiet area, 2 km mission hill golf, 6km UWC, 8 km airport. owner finance. 0870608400 engl/ german 12.9MB, picharly@gmail. com

Beach Front Land

Property for rent YAMU

Very big house. 400sqm, Land 4400sqm. Available 1st May. 4 bedrooms- 4 bathrooms , swimming pool. Close BIS, UWCT. Must see. Long term lease 110,000 baht/month including pool+ garden service. Khun DIDIER, aouichedidier@ hotmail.com, 093 717 9343 (English+French)/ 089 552 9303 (Thai).

1 Bed Condo Sale Rawai

Lovely condo at Utopia Kata for Sale. Completed in 2017 and close to Kata Beach. Fully furnished. Close to restaurants and amenities. Great views. Rental programme. Full facilities. Dimtry, 082 030 7199. B7,100,000

Mai Khao beach condo. Great new condohotel. 470 meters from the sea. 36 sqm.

Wonderful place in Phuket. B3.5mn, +66812958526, Victoria.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Phuket Town 1 Bed Condo

1 Bedroom Condo Kata Sale

Mai Khao 1 bed condo for sale

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Shop for rent at Amari Phuket, Patong Beach

Located at Amari Phuket's lobby building. Size: 33 sqm. Partly furnished: shelves, counter, airconditioner and telephone line. 40,000 THB/ month (negotiation available). Khun Mallika, mallika.t@amari.com, 076 340106 #8006

PROPERTY FOR RENT

COMMUNITY

Renovated 3bed Home Boat Lagoon

AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY: Beautifully renovated & decorated 3bed+mezzanine, 250 sqm contemporary house featuring: boat berth, rooftop jacuzzi, open kitchen, wine cooler, 2 parkings, storage & laundry area. B 75,000 per month, Henry Cumberlege, hcumberlege@gmail.com

Stunning Ocean Views!

4 bed/bath large pool villa. Privately located in Cape Heights Cape Yamu.

Furnished. Gardens. Fiber WiFi. 80,000/rent long term or 30 million to sell. Richard, Cape Yamu, Phuket, richarddesmondcapeheights@yahoo. co.uk, +66824203270, WhatsApp

* 128 meter of white sand beach frontage * amazing views * 9 Rai , Secure Nor Sor 3 Kor tittle * located on Koh Yao Yai * 20 minutes boat drive from Phuket * public road with water and electricity * ideal for high end development * ready to build * sale direct by owner *ONLY 11.9 Mill. Baht / Rai montha_phuket@yahoo.com, 095 014 7888

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

SPORT 29

Hamilton in British box seat

Mercedes hoping for ‘typical English weather’ at Silverstone BOX OF NEUTRALS Michael Lamonato michael@boxofneutrals.com

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here’s such a fine line between summer and British summer.

While most of the European continent has sweltered through a heatwave brought about by some errant Saharan winds, the UK has remained stubbornly unmoved – British thermostats have been more likely to suffer from water damage in a sudden downpour than have their mercury rise to anywhere near 30°C. Unsurprisingly this weekend’s forecast offers much of the same: 22°C, cloudy and a chance of rain – bad news, perhaps, if you’re planning on attending the Wimbledon or Cricket World Cup finals, but a boon if you’re supporting Lewis Hamilton at his home British Grand Prix.

A spot of British summer is exactly what Mercedes needs after its travails in an unusually warm Austria two weeks ago.

@thephuketnews

Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are hoping for mild weather at the British Grand Prix this weekend. Photo: AFP Hamilton’s neutered fifthplace finish while teammate Valtteri Bottas only just clung to third from a hard-charging Sebastian Vettel was easily Mercedes’s worst result of the season. As the temperature climbed in the Styrian mountains, the German marque, so used to controlling the action on the track, was forced to watch idly as Max Verstap-

pen beat Charles Leclerc in a duel for a memorable victory.

But those hoping the outcome represents a permanent change in the competitive picture after all eight opening races fell to Mercedes would do well to check their expectations, because not only were Hamilton and Bottas’s struggles explicable, but they were predictable too.

The Mercedes W10 literally couldn’t handle the heat at the Red Bull Ring.

The team opened as much of the chassis as possible to maximise cooling, but still its drivers were forced into extreme management during the race, lifting off the throttle and coasting as much as 400 metres before the apex of a corner just to keep engine

temperature under control.

With the circuit sitting almost 700 metres above sea level, where the thinness of the air already makes cooling difficult, neither Hamilton nor Bottas was able to fight Red Bull Racing and Ferrari, so occupied were they in just nursing their cars to the chequered flag.

“We knew that it was our Achilles heel and we were carrying the problems since the beginning of the season,” Mercedes boss Toto Wolff explained. “We tried to work on mitigating the performance loss, but… we couldn’t do anything anymore, and it was already very damaging for performance what we did.

“I’m really hoping for the typical English weather in Silverstone so we can gain a little bit of time to sort our problems out!”

And certainly the British Grand Prix should swing the momentum back towards Mercedes, with its cooler climes and sweeping circuit layout all working in the team’s favour – the recipe has worked five times in the last

six races, four of which were to the advantage of crowd favourite Hamilton.

But Mercedes’s way may not be so straightforward as simply hoping for favourable weather. Though the Silverstone Circuit has long been a stern test of aerodynamic balance, the sheer level of downforce produced by all the frontrunning machines in the last three seasons has turned many of the track’s iconic fast corners into effective straights, moving the balance of performance back towards Ferrari and its powerful engine.

Indeed last season, when Ferrari first nosed ahead in the power stakes, Sebastian Vettel missed out on pole by less than half a tenth of a second from Hamilton and beat the Briton to the chequered flag.

It should turn the weekend into a fascinating arm wrestle between the two iconic teams as they attempt to maximise the strengths of their machinery.

So long as the so-called British summer holds, of course.

30 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

‘Fore’ all the right reasons Laguna Phuket to host inaugural Children First Charity Event GOLF The Phuket News editor3@classactmedia.co.th

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elebrating Banyan Tree Group’s 25th anniversary in September 2019, Asia’s premier destination resort Laguna Phuket, in collaboration with the awardwinning Laguna Golf Phuket, will host an inaugural Children First Charity Event (CFCE) on Saturday, Sept 21 at Phuket’s favourite Laguna Golf Phuket.

Aimed at raising funds to support underprivileged children in Phuket, CFCE is a charity journey from day into night under the theme “Swing for Good” where you get to enjoy a fun golf tournament throughout the day.

As the sun sets, sit back and unwind in a unique “Battle of the Chefs” charity dinner gourmet experience, complete with delicious food, free-flow beverages and live entertainment – all to support children in Phuket.

Being staged at the awardwinning golf course, Laguna Golf Phuket, the tournament

A fun golf tournament, charity dinner and live entertainment await. Photos: Supplied

provides golfers opportunities to generate the donation through fun-filled games with on-course food and beverages

from Phuket’s leading dining establishments. Activities such as “Beat the Pro” and “Bunker Charity” are set on course to

accelerate the funds in more fun and challenging ways.

After the day’s play, the night will still be young and

there will still be a lot more enjoyment to be explored.

Forget the traditional evening gala dinner and be thrilled

with the live cooking contest of the chefs from top-class restaurants around Laguna resorts.

The event aims to raise funds for Children First Fund (CFF) in support of seven orphanages in Phuket, housing more than 400 orphans and underprivileged children.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Banyan Tree Group is the event’s founding sponsor providing spectacular prizes and auction items.

Register your interest now to join this unique charity event and help raise big bucks for Children First Fund. Golf tournament entries are limited to 25 teams of four players.

Charity dinner-only option is available. Spaces are limited.

Proceeds go towards Children First Fund, a Laguna Phuket initiative providing monthly sustenance to seven orphanages in Phuket.

For more information, please visit https://www.lagunagolfphuket.com/children-first-charity-event-25th-anniversarybanyan-tree-group/ or contact golf@lagunaphuket.com.

Thurman plans to retire Pacquiao BOXING KEITH THURMAN WARNED TUESDAY he is targeting the destruction of Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao when the two welterweights face off in Las Vegas later this month.

The undefeated Thurman puts his World Boxing Association welterweight crown on the line against the 40-year-old Pacquiao on July 20 at the MGM Grand.

Thurman, 30, has relentlessly fanned the flames for the contest by stating he plans to send Pacquiao into retirement.

On Tuesday (July 9), Thurman took a more respectful tone against Pacquaio, the eightdivision world champion who remains one of boxing’s biggest draws as he prepares for the 71st fight of a two-decade professional career.

Thurman said he plans to take an aggressive approach into the fight as he chases an emphatic victory.

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to destroy a legend and create my own legacy,” Thurman said on a conference call.

“How can I not Babe Ruth it and step up to the plate, point and start swinging. How can I not go for it? I’ve got a ‘0’ and I’m not afraid to let it go.

“If Manny Pacquiao is the man that beats me, he’s the man that beats me. I’m going to shake his hand after the fight and congratulate him.

“It is what it is. But when Keith Thurman steps into the ring, you’re dealing with Keith Thurman. And he’s a bad man.”

At 10 years younger, Thurman sees the upcoming fight as his chance to claim victory over one of the greats of boxing in Pacquiao

Keith Thurman (right) says his fight with Manny Pacquiao (left) is a chance to ‘destroy a legend’. Photo: AFP (61-7 with two draws and 39 knockouts).

“Manny Pacquiao towards the end of his career, all those fights, and his record – it’s as if I’m fighting Sugar Ray Robinson himself.

It’s as if I’m fighting Roberto Duran,” he said.

“This is Manny Pacquiao. It’s a tremendous feeling and it’s going to feel even greater when my hand is raised at the end of the night.”

Thurman (29-0, 22 KOs), who last fought in January when he was made to work hard for a majority decision win over Josesito Lopez, said Pacquiao’s victory over Adrien Broner, also in January, had inspired him.

“He wants to prove his greatness. He’s still reaching for greatness at the age of 40 and it’s admirable,” Thurman said.

“I was impressed by his performance against Adrien Broner. It was inspiring. After watching him, I got out into the streets and ran at one in the morning. Because I just watched a 40-year-old man beat a much younger man.

Manny has done so much, but he wants to do more,” Thurman said.

“I want to do more too, and on the 20th I want to show you more.”

AFP thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

USA resist European rise to hold World Cup FOOTBALL

SPORT 31 Live Sports TV Schedule *Times may be subject to change

SPORT

START STOP

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

Rugby League 17:00 19:00

NRL

Knights v. Bulldogs

Aussie Rules

17:00 20:00

AFL

West Coast v. Collingwood

Tennis

17:00 02:00

Wimbledon

Day 12

20:00 22:00

Currie Cup

Lions v. Pumas

22:10 00:00

Currie Cup

Western Province v. Blue Bulls

Aussie Rules 10:30 13:30

AFL

Sydney v. Carlton

13:30 16:30

AFL

Essendon v. N Melbourne

16:30 19:30

AFL

Gold Coast v. Adelaide

Friday 12th July

Andy Scott

Saturday 13th July

he United States underlined their status as the dominant force in international women’s football by winning a fourth World Cup in eight editions last Sunday, but the tournament has also highlighted the growing threat to them coming from Europe.

In their third consecutive final, the USA were too strong for the Netherlands as they won 2-0 in Lyon to retain their title with Megan Rapinoe and Rose Lavelle scoring.

It means a European nation has not won since Germany in 2007, while the USA’s four World Cups stand alongside their record four Olympic golds.

Their triumph came after they topped their group ahead of Sweden and then beat Spain, hosts France and England en route to the final, where they defeated the European champions.

While the USA started their campaign with a World Cup record 13-0 win over Thailand, their encounters with European opposition were closer affairs.

“I think the level around the world is growing exponentially every year, so four

Rugby Union

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Geelong Cats v. St Kilda Rugby League 16:30 18:30

NRL

Storm v. Sharks

17:00 02:00

Wimbledon

Ladies Singles Final

Motor Racing 20:00 21:30

Formula 1

Qualifying, Silverstone

Motor Racing 19:15 20:00

Formula 1

Raceday, Silverstone

20:00 22:30

Formula 1

British Grand Prix

Tennis

19:30 22:30

Wimbledon

Men’s Singles Final

Cricket

Cup Final, 16:30 00:30 WorldLords

Tennis

Sunday 14 July th

tbc

USA lift the trophy after winning the 2019 Women’s World Cup final. Photo: Franck Fife years on, this was incredibly difficult because the opponent is better and the teams we had to come through were some of the best in the world,” said USA coach Jill Ellis when asked to compare this World Cup win with 2015.

The USA were the only nation from outside Europe to reach the quarter-finals in France.

Ellis – who was born and brought up in England but only got a chance to play the

game after moving to the USA as a teenager – acknowledges that things are fundamentally changing in Europe as leading clubs invest more heavily in women’s teams.

Real Madrid are the latest to get involved, and standards are rapidly rising in domestic leagues.

“Right now, with the trophy going back to the States, no,” Ellis joked when asked if she was concerned by the progress being made in Europe.

“But with the investment the rest of the world has made, all these major clubs can see how amazing this World Cup was and how rich in terms of fan support that it was.

“Teams will want to continue to invest in the women’s game. What does that do? It makes our job hard, but I think also we have had a commitment from our federation to grow our domestic league, because without leagues you can’t exist as a national team.”

While Germany and the Scandinavian countries remain prominent, and England and France keep aspiring to major tournament success, Spain and Italy have made huge strides, aided by the development of their own leagues.

It has been a different story in the Netherlands – all of their starting line-up in Sunday’s final are based elsewhere in Europe.

“The competition outside is better than in the Netherlands,

that’s why everyone is fitter and they are playing better, and I think if we do that more, then in four years we can do this again,” commented defender Desiree van Lunteren.

For now, however, none of them have been able to stop this USA generation, who are worthy successors to the great team who won the title as hosts in 1999, eight years after the country lifted the inaugural World Cup. AFP

Premier League considers takeover of English Women’s Super League FOOTBALL THE PREMIER LEAGUE is weighing up taking control of the English Women’s Super League (WSL) from the Football Association (FA), according to British media reports.

The BBC said Premier League clubs have agreed to conduct a feasibility study into the matter following talks with the FA, which founded the WSL in 2011.

No timeframe has yet been proposed, with the BBC stating that any takeover could be “several seasons away”, and neither the Premier League nor the FA would comment.

The FA are believed to be open to the idea because they see the women’s England teams and grassroots participation as their long-term priorities.

The WSL is a full-time professional competition with 12 teams for 2019-20 and was @thephuketnews

recently boosted by a £10 million (B385 million) sponsorship deal with Barclays.

That agreement reflected the rise in popularity of the women’s game.

England’s dramatic women’s World Cup semi-final defeat to the United States last week was the most watched television event of the year so far in the UK, attracting a peak audience of 11.7 million.

Acknowledging the rise in popularity, Manchester City and Chelsea will play their opening matches of the new WSL season at the Etihad Stadium and Stamford Bridge respectively as the FA seeks to build on the interest sparked by the women’s World Cup. City’s derby meeting with Manchester United on September 7 and Chelsea’s clash with Tottenham the following day will both be staged at the Premier League grounds with the men’s top-flight on an international break.

The matches will be the

first in the WSL for Manchester United and Tottenham who were both promoted from the Championship last season.

“Following an exciting summer of women’s football and the Lionesses’ impressive form in France, we wanted to kick off the new season with a bang,” said City’s head of women’s football Gavin Makel.

“Having the Manchester derby as our home opener is the perfect opportunity to play a game at the Etihad Stadium and welcome our seven Manchester City Lionesses home”.

Fans can claim up to four free tickets for the London derby between Chelsea and Tottenham, while City are offering up to three free tickets for under-16s per paying adult, with adult tickets priced at £7 (B270).

City reportedly decided against making the game completely free of charge as they want fans to view the WSL as a product worth paying for.

Average attendances in the WSL last season were below 1,000.

It will be only the second time City’s women’s team have played at the Etihad, with the first coming during their successful Women’s League Cup run in 2014.

AFP

England supporters cheer before the Women’s World Cup semi-final football match against the USA. Photo: AFP

Sport

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor3@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2019

Laguna Phuket hosts Children First event >p30 Malaysian team’s Arapaima seals the deal.

GONE FISHING

French angler and Malaysian team win big in Phang Nga FISH THE EXOTIC Mike Bailey

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here was an excellent turnout for the inaugural Exotic Fishing Thailand Individual and Team events June 30 and July 6.

Teams from eight countries including as far away as Canada fished hard pulling out all the stops to try to win the trophies, major prizes and, of course, bragging rights.

These events are a new concept in Asian freshwater catch and release tournaments and will be featured on a TrueVisions sports channel later in the year. The competition’s winners were the individual and team with the greatest total length of fish caught and measured between the tournament hours of 8am to 7pm. All fish remained in the water at all times to reduce any stress on them while being carefully measured.

The weather was hot and sunny for both events. Everyone enjoyed a delicious breakfast on arrival and mouth-watering BBQ after the event, put on by

A great turnout the hard working Exotic Fishing Thailand catering team.

Most anglers fished the day before to get a feel for the lake and fine tune their techniques. Some huge fish were caught prior to each event and some feared they had peaked too early.

The individual event was a close-fought battle with a lower than average number of fish being caught. Mickael Regny of France used his prior world championship carp fishing experience to come from behind for a late victory over UK angler John Pearce, followed closely by Lewis Janes, also of the UK who

lost a last-minute fish which would have put him in first.

The Team event had steady action all day with the lead changing hands five times. The teams drew for lake position with the first person to draw being 14-year-old Hayden Schubert of Malaysia fishing with his father Niel. Both their faces lit up when they pulled out swim number 15 as they had practiced in the same place the day before and caught two Arapaima as part of an 11 fish total.

The major battle for first was between Team Malaysia and Team Lewis Janes. Lewis was off to an early start until a

Huge Mekong giant catfish at the last minute for John pearce. seesaw battle of catches started between the two teams. Lewis lost a huge Arapaima at the net early in the day and had a few choice words to share which can’t be repeated here.

He regained his composure and rallied with two Vundu catfish to take the lead with less than one hour to go. Team Malaysia remained confident in their fortunate draw of swim 15 and finished strong with a Vundu catfish of their own.

More Amazon redtails and a huge Arapaima put the nail in the coffin to win the event.

It looked like locals Martin Hill and Dave Sean Thomas, both from Phuket, would take

fourth place behind Thomas Engbert’s team, but with one minute to go, runner up in the individual event John Pearce hooked into a two-meter Mekong giant catfish which, after a 90-minute battle, earned him fourth place Trophies were awarded to first, second and third place teams along with prizes valued

at over B1 million total for the two events which were paid out to all competitors.

Everyone was a winner and left with smiling faces vowing to take first prize next year at the second annual event series.

Next year’s events will be two-day events taking place June 27-28 and July 4-5. Each day different swims will be drawn to make things even more interesting. We already have several bookings so best to book early. Details will be in The Phuket News next month, or watch our Facebook page for details.

Also watch our media sources for our next event which will be our B1.5mn tagged fish event running from November 1 to March 1. Anyone can enter and show off their fishing skills to win the most prizes ever offered in any Asian catch and release freshwater event.

Email: exoticfishingthailand@gmail.com Telephone: English 0883799377 or Thai 0811995922 https://www.facebook.com/ExoticFishing-Thailand-427820143951674/ Website: www.exoticfishingthailand.com thephuketnews