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‘WE EXPECT THEM NOT TO EVER COMMIT ANY CRIMES AGAIN’ Mayor, RTN in beach bed tug of war The Royal Thai Navy stepped in to overrule the Patong Mayor’s decision regarding raised sand-beds at Patong Beach, declaring them illegal. The Mayor had previously ruled that Royal pardon the beds were legal within 10 per cent zones. grants Phuket prison Full story Page 4 inmates early release into society BUSINESS

By Kritsada Mueanhawong

THE FIRST batch of prisoners was re- leased from Phuket Prison on Christmas Day, following the announcement on De- cember 11 of a Royal pardon to release 30,000 prisoners nationwide to commemo- rate the start of the reign of King Rama X. Video, 360 degree images Phuket Prison Commander Somkit and smart graphics lead Kammang presided over the event as a the way in e-commerce and crowd of relatives stood outside the prison content marketing. walls, waiting to welcome 147 of the 1,590 Page 11 inmates who qualified for the first round of release in Phuket. PROPERTY “These prisoners, of which 21 were women, were known for their good behav- ior during their imprisonment and had already completed one-third of their full sentences,” confirmed Mr Somkit. “Most of them were incarcerated for sexual offenses, drug-related crimes and property damage. “About 80 per cent of the prisoners set to be released were charged with drug-re- Banyan Tree launches ex- lated crimes. We have set up workshops clusive Angsana Beach- so they can be educated on how to live bet- front residences near Bang Tao Beach. ter lives and integrate themselves as skillful, Page 18 contributing members of society. We expect them not to ever commit crimes again.” According to a Royal Gazette statement, early release was granted to the convicted Emotional family members and relatives of the released prisoners gathered outside, unable LIFE&STYLE persons who were under detention, doing to hold their own as they saw loved ones walking free. Photo: Kritsada Mueanhawong public service as punishment, had been released on probation, had less than a year Convictions of those sentenced to death a provincial governor, a judge and a pub- of jail term to serve or had served not less would be commuted to life imprisonment, lic prosecutor – to consider releasing than one-third of their jail term, who were the Royal Gazette said. well-behaved inmates under the Royal par- blind or seriously sick, as well as females “Death sentences will be commuted to don. Convicted rape-murder offenders, serving a jail term for the first time who life imprisonment,” the statement read. drug traffickers and people jailed for pub- had already completed more than half of “This is the first opportunity since His lic fraud were ineligible. “After inmates are released, relevant the jail term. Majesty’s ascension to show his mercy,” Second edition of the Thai- agencies will check on them to prevent re- The Royal pardon was also granted to the statement added. “This will provide a land Yachting Forum high- offending,” he added. prisoners over 60 years old and had served chance for these individuals to behave as lights important industry Mr Kobkiat also said that people in jail not less than five years or at least one-third good citizens.” requirements. of the jail term, as well those under 20 years Corrections Department Director-Gen- for violating Article 112 of the Criminal… who had done more than half of the total eral Kobkiat Kasiwiwat said that each Page 17 jail term or had less than two years to serve. prison had set up a committee – including Continued on Page 4 2 PHUKET GAZETTE December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 14-year-old Tsunami remembrance dead after bike ceremonies held in Phuket chase at Saphan ONE 14-year-old died and an- other was injured as a chase to Police hunt for recover a stolen motorbike ended with a car collision at Wichit bike Saphan Hin on December 27. Lt Col Chaleaw Thaihoo of burner Phuket City Police as well as a rescue team arrived at the Bang POLICE are hunting a for man Yai Canal intersection about who ran away after setting fire 9:40pm. to a motorbike near Surakul The motorbike was origi- Stadium in Wichit on the morn- nally stolen from a house ing of December 22. behind Rajabhat University on “The suspect, named only as December 26. The owner, Kwan, lives near the area. Ac- named as Kanoot Dumcher, 19, cording to witnesses, he drove filed a report to the police, ask- the bike out of his house about ing them to check CCTV 10:30am, set it on fire and then footage. ran off,” confirmed Maj “Mr Kanoot and his friend Narong Muangkhuang of were riding around all day try- Wichit Police. ing to find the stolen motorbike Rescue workers rushed to themselves,” said Col Chaleaw. the scene and managed to When they spotted it, a chase douse the flames in 10 minutes. ensued and the fleeing perpetra- The motorbike, however, was tors were hit by a car that was completely destroyed. turning left. The turn signal of “Luckily, there was no the car was on, but the driver is other damage caused. We About 200 locals, tourists and provincial dignitaries gathered at Patong Beach on the evening of December under investigation regardless.” have yet to learn the motive 26 to hold a candle-lit remembrance ceremony in front of Loma Park on the 12th anniversary of the “When we arrived, a behind his act. We searched deadly tsunami that struck the island on the morning of December 26, 2004. Photo: Kritsada Mueanhawong heavily-damaged motorbike his house, but he has not been was lying nearby two uncon- back there,” said Maj Narong. Station three times during the scious 14-year-old boys. One “We hope to find him soon Marine Police week of December 22, causing Ya bah dealer received a head injury while the and call him in for an expla- the officers there to panic and other had labored breathing. nation.” fuel up tourists’ send for rescue workers. arrested on a After CPR was administered, – Kritsada Mueanhawong “The snakes might have both minors were rushed to stranded boat come into the building during whim in Phuket Vachira Phuket Hospital, where the floods, but although the one of them was declared PHANG Nga Marine Police floods are gone, the animals re- A DRUG dealer was arrested rescued a tourist yacht that ran dead.” Chicken eating mained hiding inside,” said with about 2,000 ya bah (meth- The colonel told Gazette out of fuel in the middle of the Patong Police Superintendent amphetamine) pills at Phuket sea on December 24. that the motorbike had alleg- snake nabbed Chaiwat Auikam, who has is- Bus Terminal 2 on Thepkra- edly been borrowed from the Officials received a call for sued orders to renovate the sattri Rd on the evening of De- help from Thomas Karl, captain original thief. The minors’ building in order to prevent cember 24. names are being withheld by in Krabi of SY Dolinghoo, who reported such incidents from happening Sarawuth Koraneesak, 23, the coordinates. the Gazette, while the car SNAKE catchers on December again. had bought the pills in Bangkok driver’s name has been with- 21 bagged a six-meter-long “It took us about an hour to The snakes were discovered for delivery to a customer in reach the location, which was held by police. python outside a house in in a small building next to the Phuket. He was waiting for the – Kritsada Mueanhawong Krabi, where more than 45 about 8 miles west of Koh Ra. main police station, which customer to come and collect chickens have gone missing There were also two tourists houses a drug fighting unit, of- them when he was arrested. this month. and two crew members on fices and a small cafeteria for The pills were estimated to Home owner Suwat Maijan, board, all of whom were very officers. be worth about 400,000 baht. 55, who has a chicken coop in glad to receive our help,” said Police have been clearing “Our officers were just do- Missing man’s his yard, called in the snake Phang Nga Marine Police out their belongings to check ing their usual patrol duty, but catchers when he spotted the Chief Chaiyapol Yaiying. for more snakes that might be they noticed Mr Sarawuth be- body found 20-kilogram reptile slithering “During the long holiday, we lurking in dark places. having suspiciously, so they A MAN’S dead body was away from the coop, leaving a will keep an even closer eye on “This is extremely danger- asked to search him. They found in Wichit on the after- trail of dead chickens behind. marine activities. So, if you ous, not only for officers, but found him in possession of nine noon of December 27. Police “I had about 50 chickens in need any assistance, feel free to also for visitors who come into plastic bags filled with the il- believe it to be a murder, as they the coop but every couple of reach out at 1196,” he added. the station. I have ordered that licit pills,” said Lt Col Chatchai saw signs of the body being nights a few of them would dis- – Kritsada Mueanhawong the building be demolished and Choonu of Phuket City Police. dragged. appear. I put up a net around renovated, as it is very old and Mr Sarawuth named the cus- Police and rescue workers the place, but that didn’t work needs repairs. We will feel tomer only as ‘Boy’ but there arrived at the scene after receiv- very well, and now I only have much safer when that is done. was no sign of him after the ing reports about 2:30pm. five chickens left,” Mr Suwat Patong Police Otherwise, officers will work in suspect’s arrest. “He said that “Wanlop Choojit’s body was lamented. constant fear of more snakes,” it was his first time doing this,” rotting. We couldn’t immedi- The snake catchers took two station overun he added. Col Chatchai added. ately check whether or not he hours to snare and bag the py- Patong’s finest are keeping Mr Sarawuth was charged had any wounds on his body,” thon, before releasing it in the by snakes a close eye on the offending with possession of a Category 1 said Lt Patcharee Wongboon of wild, far away from the house, reptiles, but have not yet drug with intent to sell and was Wichit Police. and Mr Suwat’s five remaining FOUR snakes, including a king pressed any charges, pending taken to Phuket City Police Sta- Rescue workers believe that chickens. cobra, a cobra and a radiated rat further investigations. tion for further processing. Mr Wanlop had been dead for – Kritsada Mueanhawong snake, invaded Patong Police – Kritsada Mueanhawong – Kritsada Mueanhawong at least seven days. December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 PHUKET GAZETTE 3 Three hour traffic jam Microsoft Thailand caused by spilled load aims to use IT to end human trafficking

The aim of the project is to educate a target a sample group of 1,200 students, who will then be able to share their new-found skills and knowledge with others they meet on a daily basis. Photo: Phuket PR MICROSOFT Thailand re- provinces to share their knowl- cently organized a project to edge with others. educate youth about computers “I am quite concerned and Information Technology to about youth in isolated rural equip them with the knowledge areas as they are vulnerable Police suspect the driver lost control as he took the sharp bend in wet conditions. Photo: Winai Sarot and tools to fight human traf- and at risk of becoming vic- By Winai Sarot curve, a short distance from which happened to be tailing ficking. tims of human trafficking. the Tah Chat Chai Police the truck, rushed the driver and The project was chaired by These kinds of projects are TAH CHAT CHAI Police checkpoint in north Phuket at passenger to Thalang Hospital Phuket Vice Governor Teera essential to alleviate the situ- suspect the driver of an ar- about 7:20pm, according to before police arrived at the Anantaseriwidhya, at Prince of ation,” said V/Gov Teera. ticulated truck that spilled its Tah Chat Chai Police Lt Sarit crash scene. Songkla University’s Phuket “Providing computer and load of plywood sheets all Buthnhongsang. The spillage blocked the en- Campus. IT knowledge to students is a over the road on the night of The 37-year-old driver, tire road, holding up traffic The campaign is being held step in the right direction. December 26, bringing traf- named as Sanon Nijjaroon, was heading into Phuket for about at seven campuses throughout When students learn these fic to a standstill, lost control slightly injured. However, his three hours. the country, including, in addi- skills, they can broaden their of his vehicle when he took passenger, Suwannee Jiam- “It appears that the driver tion to Phuket, Chiang Rai, knowledge and have a lot a sharp bend at high speed in wijit, 42, suffered an injured lost control of the truck on the Chiang Mai, Payao, Yala, more information at their fin- wet conditions. left hand and broken right leg, slippery road. However, we Pattani and Narathiwat. gertips – not only about The Phuket-bound 18- the colonel told the Gazette the have yet to confirm the exact The aim is to educate 1,200 human trafficking, but other wheeler spilled its entire load next morning. cause of the accident,” Col students – part of a target areas as well,” he added. on the notoriously dangerous A Phang Nga rescue team, Sarit admitted. sample group – in these seven – Kongleaphy Keam Rush to Samkong’s field of gold Land owner Piyaporn Udomsap allows free access to the public, saying he grows the flowers to maintain the land’s quality and aesthetic beauty. He started growing the flow- ers three months ago. The flowers have already been in full bloom for a week and ex- pected to last for a few weeks. “I am simply following the teachings of King Rama IX. I grow them to improve the land quality. After the flowers die, they turn into fertilizer, and then I prepare the land to grow others,” said Mr Piyaporn. A visitor poses among the golden sunhemps. Photo: Gazette file “People are free to enjoy the beauty of the flowers. I just A FIELD of sunhemps in full traction for locals and tourists, want to see people smile,” he bloom near the Samkong junc- who have been stopping off to added. tion has become a popular at- pose for pictures. – Kongleaphy Keam 4 PHUKET GAZETTE December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 Royal Navy overrules Patong Mayor By Kritsada Mueanhawong Mayor Chalermluck clari- fied the issue at the meeting, THE ROYAL Thai Navy saying that they were only set stepped in to overrule the up to deal with tourist demand Patong Mayor’s decision re- and that current beach manage- garding beach mats laid out on ment rules did not meet the raised beds of sand at Patong vendors’ needs. Beach, and declared that they “These raised mats are con- are, in fact, ‘illegal’. venient for tourists visiting the Rear Adm Pisai Sukawin, beach, especially older ones deputy commander of the RTN who like to be more comfort- Third Area Command, handed able. However, I agree that they down the verdict at a meeting detract from the beauty of the on the afternoon of December area, especially at night,” said 23, saying that regardless of the Mayor Chalermluck. beds being in the 10 per cent “We can get rid of the sand zone, they will no longer be al- beds, but I feel it would be ben- lowed on the beach. eficial to allow regular beach “Some vendors have been set- loungers inside the 10 percent ting up mats outside of the 10 per zone. They could be stashed cent zones, and in order to avoid away at night to maintain the these problems in future, we be- aesthetic beauty of the area. lieve it best to remove them This would be the best compro- entirely,” said R/Adm Pisai. mise as both tourists and Other officials in attendance vendors will get what they at the meeting included Phuket want,” she added. Vice Governor Snith Sriwihok However, the meeting ended as well as officers from the Navy officials said that it would be better to remove the sand-beds entirely to prevent future problems. without any conclusion regard- army, police and local beach Bottom right: Patong Mayor’s decision was overuled by the Royal Thai Navy. Photo: Kritsada Mueanhawong ing her suggestion. management ‘authorities’. “For now, no more sand- The issue started after pic- sharing and celebrating the in- beds’) on Phuket’s beaches. long as the vendors offering the beds are allowed. However, we tures of beds built solely of sand genuity of ‘uneducated local Patong Mayor Chalermluck beds were operating inside the will take the mayor’s sugges- (with beach mats for tourists villagers’ who were making a Kebsup addressed the com- designated 10 per cent zones, tion about beach loungers into atop them) went viral on social mockery of the rules against plaints by declaring the sand they, along with their mats, consideration,” said R/Adm media, with thousands of people ‘beach loungers’ (a.k.a. ‘sand beds to be legal, saying that as would be allowed. Pisai. Families reunited after early release Red-back saved granted to Phuket prison inmates Act (No. 23), B.E. 2548. from drowning A collective Royal pardon is granted on special ground on auspicious national events; for example, on the occasion of the Long-Reign celebration and the Golden Jubilee. His Majesty may also grant individual Royal pardons at his own discretion. Any convicted prisoner or a concerned person wishing to petition His Majesty Family members wait outside prison walls. Photo: Kritsada Mueanhawong the King praying for pardon may do so by submitting such Continued from Page 1 Lipattanaphan in 2001, did not petition through official chan- qualify because he has been nels. Whether or not the pardon …Code relating to lese cited for poor behavior. is granted shall be subject to the majeste, who were categorized According to the Depart- King’s discretion based on the as ‘general offence’ inmates, ment of Corrections, Ministry recommendation submitted by had their jail terms reduced. of Justice, Royal pardon may the Minister of Justice. Former MP Chuwit Kamol- be either in the form of an un- The petition may be submit- visit will be among the first conditional release, a ted by the convicted prisoners batch of inmates released, ac- commutation or reduction of themselves, or concerned per- cording to Mr Kobkiat. punishment. This depends on sons (including parents, While the 55-year-old mas- the discretion of His Majesty offspring and spouse) may also sage parlor tycoon-turned- the King as stated in Section file the petition on his or her politician qualified for release, 221 and 225 of the Constitution behalf. Additionally, a diplo- another high-profile inmate, (B.E. 2540) and Section 259 to matic representative may file A RED-BACKED sea eagle was saved by Kotchaporn Pitakwong from Chalermchai ‘Major Teung’ 267 of Division 7: Pardon, a petition on behalf of a for- drowning at Sireh Pier, Ratsada. Ms Kotchaporn took it to a Kusoldharm Foundation office nearby, who called in Phongchart Matchaklam, a former Army of- Commutation and Reduction of eign prisoner. Churhomthe, the head of Nature and Wildlife Education Center Khao ficer jailed for the murder of Punishment in the Criminal Additional reporting by The Phra Thaeo. “It’s wings are injured at the moment, so we will help it then-Yasothon Governor Preena Procedure Code Amendment Nation. recover and set it off into the wild,” he confirmed. Photo: Winai Sarot December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 PHUKET GAZETTE 5 Teen dead after truck collision Security beefed up

Holiday season calls for increased vigilance. Photo: Kritsada Mueanhawong ABOUT 280 Phuket police of- people are travelling around a ficers and volunteers gathered lot more than usual. Bigger outside Phuket Provincial Po- crowds pose a much higher lice Station on December 22 in crime risk and also create traf- light of the New Year holidays. fic issues, so we have to be “Security measures will be extra vigilant,” said Gen Chalit. heightened up until January 15, “We have chalked out secu- The small car became wedged under the truck’s cab in the high-speed collision. Photo: Winai Sarot to instill confidence in both lo- rity measures in collaboration cals and tourists who visit with the Tourist Police, Immi- A TEENAGE driver was killed Capt Chatree Chuwichian of the collision. Phuket during this period,” said gration Police, Phuket in a collision with an 18-wheel Thalang Police. “Mr Chalit told us he was Region 8 Deputy Police Com- International Airport, Region 8 truck in north Phuket on the “The driver, Suwan Soi- driving on Thepkrasattri Road mander Chalit Thinthanee. Police, Marine Police, High- morning of December 23. thong, 18, was still inside and and had just turned left at the Additional officers and volun- way Police, and many others. The accident occurred about had critical injuries to his head, junction, when Mr Suwan teers chosen to carry out special The measures focus on 11:30am at the Sala Deng- neck, face and back. Rescue turned onto the same road at a duties were assigned from police targetting risky areas, where we Muddokkhao junction – which workers spent 10 minutes sepa- very high speed. Mr Suwan stations throughout Phuket, as are setting up checkpoints in turns into Nai Yang Beach. rating the two vehicles and then lost control of his car, well as army, civil defence per- order to keep a better lookout,” “We received a report that a getting the driver out of the car.” crossed over into the adjoining sonnel and other volunteers. he added. Daihatsu Mira had crashed into Mr Suwan was rushed to lane and crashed into his “We have passed on the mes- Additionally, Patong Police an 18-wheeler truck on north- Thalang Hospital, where he truck,” said Capt Chatree. sage to all security forces to get Station got its own security bound Thepkrasattri Road. The was later pronounced dead. Mr Chalit was initially rid of crime in any shape or boost focused on fighting drug- front side of the car was seri- Police questioned the truck charged with reckless driving form as much as possible, es- related crimes, especially on ously damaged and wedged driver, Chalit Khuankert, 32, causing death. pecially during the holiday Bangla Road. under the truck’s cab,” said who sustained minor injuries in – Winai Sarot period. As it is a long holiday, – Kritsada Mueanhawong 6 PHUKET GAZETTE December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 Krabi businesses join locals to Dead coral seized at protest against coal plant plan sanctuary By Kritsada Mueanhawong

REPRESENTATIVES from 11 private and government sector organizations met in Krabi on December 22 to reiterate their stance against the construction of a coal-fired power plant, which they say will adversely impact the quality of life for locals and cause billions of baht Some were stuck to the walls of in tourism losses. the building. Photo: Winai Sarot Officials from the Krabi Chamber of Commerce, Krabi ABOUT 37 kilograms of dead Tourism Council of Thailand coral was seized at a meditation (TCT), and Krabi Tourism As- center in Koh Yao Noi on De- sociation were among those cember 21. present at the meeting. The raid at the Mooktawan “This is totally against the Meditation Sanctuary was con- government’s own initiative of ducted by the Department of ‘Krabi Go Clean’. Since the Locals have vehemently opposed the proposed power plant since plans were announced. Photo: Gazette file Marine and Coastal Resources coal plant project was first (DMCR) Region 6, after Phang tabled by the Electricity Gen- Nation reported. earning professions will be fishermen, have joined in the Nga Governor Pakkapong erating Authority of Thailand “If the coal plant becomes a badly impacted and billions of fight by showing up in the hun- Tawiphat alerted them. (EGAT), opinion has been di- reality, it will affect tourism for baht will be lost. We are col- dreds at public hearings, with “The coral was being used vided about it. However, most sure. Tourists come to Krabi to lecting signatures to submit a some even protesting that the to decorate the premises,” said of the private sector organiza- breathe fresh air and see un- petition to the government to meetings were ‘set-ups’ and that DMCR official Suchat Rattana- tions in Krabi are against it. We spoiled natural beauty – not to halt this project and build locals were not being heard. ruengsri. “The Wildlife Preser- don’t mind a power plant, just breathe in black smoke and ruin something else that does not Despite attempts from EGAT vation and Protection Act BE not a coal plant that will ruin their health. EGAT said they affect the environment,” said to push the project forward, 2535 (1992), sections 19 and the environment and drive will help those who live within Mr Plengyos. Prime Minister Gen Prayuth 47state this is punishable by a away tourists,” said Amarit a five-kilometer radius, but The plant has drawn much Chan-o-cha ordered the hotly- maximum of 4 years in prison, Siripornjuthakun, head of the what about the rest of us?” Mr resistance from locals and en- debated project to be put on hold a 40,000 baht fine, or both.” Krabi TCT. Amarit demanded. vironmental activists over the until a joint committee could Officers seized some of the The location of the plant is Plengyos Sakonkittiwat, years. ensure that all steps of the pre- coral and transported it to Koh Yao reportedly part of the wetlands head of the Krabi Chamber of In March 2014, Greenpeace construction process had been Police Station. However, some protected under the Ramsar Commerce, said that Krabi lo- members staged a dramatic legally carried out. pieces still need to be removed. Convention, an international cals earn more than 80 billion protest by hanging from the In March this year, the The owner of the meditation treaty for the conservation and baht from tourism, and about cliffs of Railay Bay in Krabi. project’s Environmental Impact center, whose name is being sustainable utilization of wet- 40 billion baht from agriculture Others, including the Koh Assessment (EIA) report was withheld, is being questioned by lands, and was marked out as a every year. Lanta Tourism Association, lo- rejected amid pressure from the police. protected zone in 2001, The “Both our main revenue- cal residents and even local ‘Protect Krabi Network’. – Winai Sarot Nepalese tourists hurt in bus flip Phang Nga remembers FIFTEEN Nepalese tourists were injured when their char- 2004 tsunami losses tered bus lost control in heavy rain and crashed into a tree in LOCALS in Ban Nam Khem, fully recovered. Surat Thani’s Tha Chana Dis- Phang Nga who survived the “Everyone here lost some- trict early early in the morning devastation of the tsunami 12 one or something in the on December 21. years ago are still struggling to tsunami disaster. The wave to- Five of them were in critical develop a community that has tally destroyed our community, condition following the crash. a safe and sustainable future. but due to the wave, we are Police officers and rescue December 26 marked the building our community again workers from Tha Chana 12th anniversary of the Boxing and this time we are growing rushed to the accident scene on Day Tsunami that ravaged the stronger,” Mr Montri said. the southbound lane of Asia Andaman coast. He said the clearest local ini- Highway 41 in Tambon Ban Nam Khem in Takua Pa tiative was the disaster Prasong about 6am. District suffered the worst preparation plan, drawn up by It is believed the bus left losses with the village wiped local people, to forge common Bangkok in the evening on De- out by the gigantic wave. Ban procedures in the event of cember 20, bound for Krabi Nam Khem had the highest emergencies or another disas- Province. Initial investigations death toll in the country, with ter. The evacuation routes, safe into the crash revealed that about 1,300 people killed. areas and volunteers were set heavy rain in the area had Tsunami Victim Network up with agreement of local caused the road surface to be- co-ordinator of Ban Nam people and emergency drills come slippery. Emergency responders carry an injured passenger from the upturned Khem, Montri Kongkrichak, practised regularly. – The Nation bus, which slid of the wet road after heavy rain. Photo: The Nation said his home town has almost – The Nation December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 PHUKET GAZETTE 7

ter link between the Blue Line’s Exports pre- Bang Sue station and the Purple Line’s Tao Poon station, said dicted to grow NCPO Spokesperson Colonel Winthai Suvaree. in 2017 In the current system, au- THE Thai National Shippers thorities provide free shuttle Council predicts that exports rides to commuters, which has next year will grow by 12 per cost about 147 million baht. cent partly because of higher oil The Mass Rapid Transit Au- prices, while Thai shippers ad- thority (MRTA) planned to open just to changing circumstances. services bridging missing link in Nopporn Thepsithar, chair- September of next year, accord- man of the council, said the ing to MRTA chairman General higher oil prices would boost Yordyuth Boonyatikarn. economic growth of many coun- He said the MRTA would tries and result in more exports speed up negotiations with of oil by-products from Thai- BEM to expedite the project. land. Mr Yordyuth said BEM’s However, some concerning role as operator of the one-ki- factors remain, including frag- lometer link would benefit ile global economic growth and commuters because the com- continued uncertainty on the pany already operated both the growth of consumer purchasing Purple and Blue lines. power. There could also be ris- He said the MRTA ex- ing non-tariff and trade barriers pected the project to take imposed by many countries, about six months for con- particularly developed nations Thai Smile for Peace and Order (NCPO)’s struction and two months for such as the US. meeting on December 27 prior testing after the Cabinet ap- to a Cabinet meeting. proved the contract. Airways to use NCPO chief Prayuth ordered “If it’s done as planned, the the Blue Line operator Bangkok service could be opened in Au- Tensions rise: Suvarnabhumi Expressway and Metro Plc gust or September next year,” Myanmar and to expand (BEM) to operate a one-kilome- said Mr Yordyuth. THAI SMILE AIRWAYS has Bangladesh coordinated with Thai Airways FOUR Bangladeshi fishermen International to use Suvarna- were injured when Myanmar’s bhumi Airport as its base to navy allegedly opened fire on penetrate India, expand to them while they were fishing China and serve Asean markets along the countries’ troubled with all flights connecting with border in the Bay of Bengal, an THAI, said Woranate Lapra- official said. bang, acting chief executive A group of 14 fishermen, officer of Thai Smile Airways. four of whom have been hos- Thai Smile will remain at pitalized with bullet wounds, Don Mueang International Air- told coastguard officials that a port until January 15 before Myanmar navy ship had en- moving all flight operations to tered Bangladeshi waters and Suvarnabhumi. opened fire on their trawler on After switching to Suvarna- December 27. bhumi, Thai Smile will increase “They said the navy ship daily flights to Phuket to seven, started firing on them without and to Khon Kaen to eight, any warning,” coastguard of- among other changes. ficer Saiful Absar told AFP by Thai Smile will inaugurate phone from southern Saint flights to Zhengzhou in China’s Martin’s Island, which is close Henan province on January 27 to where the alleged incident and to Kota Kinabalu in Malay- took place. sia on March 1. “Four fishermen were in- jured. They had bullet wounds all over their hands and feet,” he said, adding they had been MRT Missing taken to a hospital in the coastal district of Cox’s Bazar. link to be re- The coast guard is investi- gating whether the Myanmar solved in BKK Navy had intruded into Bangladesh’s territorial waters, PRIME Minister Gen Prayuth he added. Chan-o-cha has invoked his ab- The incident comes as ten- solute powers under Article 44 sions along Bangladesh’s of the interim charter to resolve southeastern border with the ‘missing link’ between the Myanmar’s Rakhine state run MRT Blue Line and MRT high, after Myanmar’s mili- Purple Line in northwestern tary launched a massive Bangkok. crackdown on Rohingya Mus- The order was acknowl- lims back in October. edged by the National Council 8 PHUKET GAZETTE December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017

Drawing lines in the sand THE Royal Thai Navy (RTN) was perhaps correct in ruling controversial ‘sand-beds’ at Patong Beach illegal, but the is- sue once again means that customer satisfaction takes a back- seat at Phuket’s most popular strand. The sand-beds certainly made an impressive debut. Im- ages of the seaside constructions went viral on social media, prompting cheers at how ‘uneducated locals’ had seemingly managed to outwit the military-imposed regulations ordered from up high that now apply at all island beaches. The beds were first allowed by Patong Mayor Chalermluck Kebsup, but what initially appeared to be good high-season news for ‘innovative locals’, was quickly squelched when the RTN shot down her decision that use of the beds within the controversial ‘10 per cent zones’ could continue. Mayor Kebsup demonstrated some political savvy by fo- cusing not on the considerable financial issues involved, but on the needs and expectations of visiting beach tourists. Foreign tourists, especially Europeans and other seasonal refugees from chilly northern climes, are quite reasonably put off by the current beach-bed situation. Human race needs to slow down Many escape the polar vortex by flying half-way around Re: Keep It Green: Reefers, legal, and at the same time the globe to reach our shores. The last thing they want or rogues and regulations, Dec 28 keep the money in Thailand. expect from their destination of choice is to be burnt to a Until the human race slows Simple. crisp. Why can’t we give them what they want when all they its accelerating growth and Simon ask for is something as simple as shade and a comfortable hence demand for food and Gazette forum place to relax? Do you have an opinion to voice? land, it is simply going to get Email [email protected] The real issues are, of course, financial. The former may- worse. ors of more than one west-coast local administration Just read on the BBC Caterpillar all the organization were found guilty of illegally divvying up the website that the beautiful chee- beaches, which are enshrined in the law as public lands, not tah now is on the severely own the road. structures built on municipal assets. endangered list. They do things over here stolen land The current government has correctly made beach usage Population control would be with impunity, and when you rights in Phuket a high priority issue, but doing so was more a good place to start conserva- try to tell them it’s not right you a reflection of how out-of-control the situation had become tion – all races and religions get a mouthful of abuse. Re: Phuket officials demolish than a matter of legal precedent. without exception. Last year I was hit from be- illegal man-made plantations, Now, it seems, the situation has shifted back in the oppo- James H Miller hind when a fool tried to pass Dec 24 site direction. Facebook me on the inside when there Good. They should check all Sadly there seems to be little hope that a sustainable and was no room. other areas in Phuket too, like fair solution can be reached before the end of the high sea- Two days later, the same Laem Prom Thep where lots of son arrives. Offender’s licence thing was going to happen and houses are built in the national when I shook my head to say park. should be revoked ‘no’. All I got was spat on and Everybody knows it is a Na- abused. tional Park and that it’s Re: Traffic held up for three Bazza forbidden to build there. hours after truck spills plywood Gazette forum The Authorities should just load, Dec 27 do it like in Spain – caterpillar “It appears that the driver away all structures on the sto- lost control of the truck on the Fly for visa runs if len land. slippery road. However, we you value your life Moskito have yet to confirm the exact Gazette forum cause of the accident,” Col Sarit admitted. Re: Opinion: Risking life and Allow me to help, Colonel. limb for visa runs, Dec 26 Everyone pursuing He was driving too fast and “If you want to stay alive, should have his licence re- then fly.” selfish agendas voked, if he has one. If visa runners fly, it will put Chas these companies out of busi- Re: Royal Thai Navy declares Gazette forum ness. sand-beds ‘illegal’, Dec 24 You could also choose to One man’s ‘ingenious un- take a boat trip. Anything but educated villager’ is another Some people think these crazy visa run compa- man’s ‘beach parasite’. nies. Meantime the authorities they own the roads By far the best way is to have continue to contradict each an immigration office in all the other allowing people of every Re: Island View: Unchecked major towns. educational level to continue road rage in Phuket, Dec 27 If you turn up there every 3 pursuing their own selfish Volume 23 Issue 53 Every year at high season we months for the stamp with your agendas. get what I call idiots from all work permit and pay 1,000 CaptainJack over the world who think they baht, it will keep you safe and Gazette forum December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 PHUKET GAZETTE 9 Time to speak up It’s a new dawn asked me again for 30 baht or I wouldn’t be allowed on Phi By Tulsathit Taptim By Zohaib Sikander Phi. More and more tourists kept THIS is a period when love, Do you have an opinion to voice? piling up behind me, waiting compassion and forgiveness Email [email protected] for their turn to pass, but I rule and little else matters. didn’t pay any heed to it. It can all be a bit strange The attendant looked visibly since this season of giving is SINCE my busy work sched- angry and a little surprised at absolutely man-made, meaning ule doesn’t allow much time to my persistence, but I held my that human beings’ best quali- travel, when an old friend from ground. I told him that I wasn’t ties prevail for a few days college who I hadn’t seen for going to pay him and if he merely because they want them over ten years decided to visit, wasn’t going to let me enter, he to. In other words, there is no I took the opportunity to do just was going to have to buy my divine hand guiding our good- that. ticket back to Phuket for me. ness (albeit fleeting) to one We took a ferry to Phi Phi, We glared at each other for a another at the moment. which was conveniently booked few more seconds and he told Although it marks the start of via a website along with ar- my friend and I to go through the earth’s new orbit around the rangements for a chartered van with an angry gesture. sun, New Year’s Day can be any to pick us up from my house. My friend, who lives in day. People in different parts of The festive season should be a time for partying whereas sharing and As soon as we boarded the South Carolina and was visit- the world have historically con- compassion shouldn’t just be seasonal. Photo: Leandro Neumann Ciuffo ferry, we were surprised to see ing Asia for the first time in her sidered various days to be the there are things we could be do- New Year is the time to cel- the ‘leather couches’ we had life, was obviously confused by starting point of the orbit. ing all year long, not just at New ebrate the only thing that is truly been assigned while everyone what was happening. January 1 is merely the most Year. In other words, the festive new – us. This is an old world else was sitting on ‘normal’ I explained to her that in ‘the successful among several can- season should be a time for and its new orbit starts aging seats. A movie was playing on land of smiles’, there would al- didates for the global start line. drinking, partying and gift-giv- immediately after it begins. TV screens throughout the ways be people trying to shyster Even in the days when each ing whereas the sharing and What is constantly and genu- ferry and we decided this was money out of you, so just be country marked the New Year compassion shouldn’t be just inely ‘new’ is each and every a good decision after all. wary of what you owe and what independently, the celebrations seasonal. one of us. Every second places When we stepped onto Phi you don’t. had the same noble character- We see glimpses of who we us at a ‘new’ location in the uni- Phi, however, things changed This little victory at Tonsai istics. can be during the New Year. So, verse, which means nobody can for the worse. I had paid 500 Pier, as much as it makes me People only did good things. the challenge is to remain the really be the same person as they baht one-way, but as soon as I look like a miser to the reader, Some wouldn’t lie or curse, person we are during the fes- were years, months or even sec- stepped onto the pier, I walked is one of many that we ‘farangs’ others shared, helped the needy tive period for as long as onds earlier. This is a fact, even into a human traffic jam. Atten- have to strive to work toward and made merit. Everyone possible. Some say people though we may like to argue that dants at the dock were collecting every single day. Just last smiled with sincerity. ‘wear masks’ during the New nothing has changed about our- a ‘fee’ from everyone stepping month, I was shocked at hav- These great qualities, activi- Year, only to return to who they selves over the past year. off the ferry. Having worked ing to pay 300 baht to enter a ties and attitudes used to be really are as the year gets old. We are continuously the new- here for two years now, I know national park, while Thai spread throughout the year, as Come to think of it, why are est cosmic alchemy, so to speak. a thing or two about being people had to pay just 30 baht. nations had different ideas on New Year’s resolutions neces- The question, therefore, is what forced to pay up for non-exis- It’s important for us to stop the starting point of the earth’s sary? It’s understandable that we should do with that special tent services and I was not going throwing away our money just journey around the sun. When people need a starting point in status when the new year arrives to pay for this one. to not have to explain things January 1 was universally order to ‘get set’, so commit- – we can choose to extend the Most of the tourists, unfor- in broken Thai. If more people agreed upon, many traditional ting oneself to certain behavior ‘nice’ streak a bit longer and tunately drunk out of their start standing up to the extra New Year’s celebrations were at the year’s beginning makes make the rather abstract annual minds from partying it up be- ‘charges’ foreigners have to maintained, though minus the sense. But since all New Year’s celebrations really count. fore the ferry ride and during pay to do anything in Thailand, vigor of ancient times. resolutions are for positive Maybe this explains that cu- it, didn’t’ bother asking what maybe Thai people will real- Simply put, most of us now changes, why can’t they be rious longing many of us the money was for, and paid up. ize that although we appreciate cram our good deeds into a short made any time? Why do some experience three or four weeks When my turn came, I curtly their beautiful country and un- space of time around January 1. people wait until January 1 to into the new year. Perhaps we asked why I needed to pay 30 matched hospitality, if we pay Of course, this is not to claim that say to themselves, “I’m going don’t miss the partying and fun baht to enter the island. taxes and work really hard bad deeds dominate for the rest to spend more time with my as much as we do the real quali- The attendant felt that no ex- here, then we demand to be of the year. This is to suggest that family this year”? ties of ourselves and of others. planation was needed, and treated in a just manner. Words from the Wise Thai idioms and their meanings JUST like any other language, “And now we welcome the new year. Full the Thai language has many of things that have never been.” proverbs and sayings, which often have interesting, and – Rainer Maria Rilke sometimes rather baffling, translations in English. “I've achieved what every artist wants, One often used phrase is rum which is that some of their work will out- mai dee tod pee tod glong, which literally translates into live them.” ‘those who can’t dance blame – George Michael it on the flute and the drum’. This is the Thai equivalent of “I was street smart, but unfortunately the the commonly-used English phrase ‘A bad workman blames “A bad workman blames his tools”. Photo: torange.biz street was Rodeo Drive.” his tools’. – Carrie Fisher Another interesting proverb which is pretty close to its En- as ‘when the cat’s away, the is meaw mai yoo noo ra reng, glish equivalent, and translates mice play.’ 10 PHUKET GAZETTE December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 Stocks are hot, bonds are not long term bonds should inter- est rates eventually go back up to the 3-5 per cent range. Moreover, the high yield THE post election weeks have bonds that many investors seen many leadership stocks have piled into have only been take off, with the overall around since the 1980s and breadth of the market uptrend have never really experienced being impressive. a sustained rising rate envi- The market is being led ronment. higher by both small and mid And while interest rates have cap stocks, plus sectors like historically risen in a slow but energy, materials, industrial, methodical matter, news and in- technology and the economi- formation flows much more cally sensitive Dow Transports quickly these days and there – all positive signs for even could always be surprises. After higher stock prices in the all, predicting interest rate move- months ahead. ments over the past 5-10 years Keep in mind that many of has seen nearly every expert’s these stocks and their sectors prediction turn out wrong – were already starting to look much like their predictions about strong or poised for lift off prior the US elections and Brexit. to the election, but the largely However, bonds are the unexpected Trump win with a wrong investment strategy right Republican controlled congress now, because growth stocks are World map of economic growth with predicted growth rates up to 2024. Image: howmuch.net ignited a catalyst to start a just starting another bull mar- strong uptrend. follow is the price action of alize is that the exact same in- crisis occurred in 2008 and then ket and investors should be And while there is still un- leadership stocks along with dex price action actually we had a small cap bear mar- focused on investing for certainty over what Trump the price action of the major happened a total of 47 times ket for two years. These events growth, not safety. will do when he assumes of- US and global indexes which during the 1990s, with the first have led many investors – es- Not sure how to navigate fice and he continues to have may or may not be an accu- instance occurring on Decem- pecially retired ones – to avoid today’s market uncertainty? many critics on both the left rate reflection of what the ber 31, 1991 when the S&P risk by plowing their money and the right, the market market thinks of economics 500 closed at 417.28. into bonds, that are perceived Don Freeman, BSME is president seems to like what Republi- and politics. In fact, the S&P eventually as being safer than stocks. of Freeman Capital Management, can control of government All four major US indexes gained approximately 252 per My technical charts have a Registered Investment Advisor means for business. made new highs after the US elec- cent from the first 1991 signal kept my clients and I out of with the US Securities Exchange Let me quickly point out tion and this confirms the follow to that fateful signal in late bonds and now it looks like we Commission (SEC), based in that I don’t pay much atten- through price action after Brexit. 1999. could have a bond market top Phuket. He has over 15 years tion to politics and that I am The last time this happened was Investors should also think after 20+ years. experience working with politically agnostic. I also on December 31, 1999. about the market like this: The problem faced by expatriates, specializing in portfolio don’t follow economists or Unfortunately, that date has growth stocks have generally today’s bond holders is that management, US tax preparation, political pundits as their pre- a negative connotation as many struggled for the entire new most have never experienced a financial planning and UK pension dictions are useless when it will remember it occurred near millennium. First we had the sustained rising-rate environ- transfers. Don can be reached at comes to what will happen in the end of an 18-year bull run. Dot.com bubble burst around ment and they are largely 089-970 5795 or email: freeman the stock market. What I do What many investors fail to re- 2000, then the global financial unprepared for what happens to [email protected]. TV5 plans more revenue Digital banking forces closures THE ROYAL THAI Army sitcoms and dramas, and live Radio and Television Station sports, which will make up THE RISING use of mobile and banking transactions, against 248 duties will increasingly be done aims to see an increase of at about 40 per cent of total air- digital banking and a consequent million for the whole of 2015. electronically instead, he said. least 15 per cent in revenue time next year. decline in visits to physical bank Phanporn Kongyingyong, CIMBT senior executive to 700 million baht next year By the end of next year, branches will continue to drive first executive vice president of vice president Adisorn after revamping its program- digital media services should a transformation of the Thai SCB, said branch banking was Sermchaiwong said the bank ming to target more specific contribute 10 per cent of its banking system in 2017. not dead, but the bank believed had to scaled down the num- groups of viewers such as se- revenue. The number of branches op- that even in the branches some ber of its physical branches as niors and young people. This year’s revenue at the erated by the country’s 11 listed transactions should be serviced more banking services became Fresh TV shows will be station is expected to stagnate commercial banks as of Novem- by machines. Therefore, it is digitized. added including local news, at 600 million baht. ber 30 had dropped to 6,697 essential that there are enough On average, CIMBT’s cus- variety and travel programs, – The Nation from 6,758 in 2015 and 6,732 in automated teller machines tomers visit a branch only once 2014, according to Bank of Thai- (ATMs) and cash deposit ma- a month, so the physical land data. chines (CDMs) for customers’ branches should now provide Reporting branch closures needs in the digital era. financial advisory – rather than this year were: Siam Commer- Employees at branches transactional – services. cial (SCB); Kasikornbank; eventually will be transformed KBank too is seeing more Thanachart Bank (TBank) and into financial advisers, she said. mobile-banking transactions, CIMB Thai Bank (CIMBT). Anuwat Luengtaweekul, but this has not resulted in a As of the third quarter, the chief financial officer at decline in the number of trans- number of mobile-banking us- TBank, said its branches would actions at its branches. The ers reached 19.37 million, up become more electronic. bank will improve the elec- from 13.92 million in 2015 and TBank will train branch em- tronic facilities at its branches, 6.23 million users in 2014. ployees to handle complex said its president, Kattiya As of the third quarter there services as the transactional bank- Indaravijaya. had been 395 million mobile- ing that used to dominate their – The Nation December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 PHUKET GAZETTE 11 CAT projects B3bn Social media revenue set earnings from 4G to rise in the new year CAT TELECOM projects rev- user of 80 baht, while its post- enue of 3 billion baht from its paid service brings in 420 baht mobile telecommunications a month. Of its total subscriber business next year, mainly base, 90 per cent are prepaid driven by its recently launched users. fourth-generation wireless Viroj said CAT aimed for its ANOTHER year gone and the broadband service. 4G service to boost its average social media scene has seen a lot CAT’s mobile-phone busi- revenue per user to 480 baht a of changes with new platforms ness earns money from two month for post-paid service and such as Periscope and Snapchat Expect to see a lot more eCommerce ‘shops’ pop up on Facebook. channels: its own “My” brand 100 baht for prepaid. rising in popularity – and Twit- 3G service and its share of the “We have positioned My as ter continues its slide. ing commentary from Facebook might not be so great for the con- revenue earned by its five mo- a price-competitive mobile- Video, 360 degree images about fixing fake content on their sumers. bile virtual network operator phone service. We believe we and smart graphics will likely site after the US election out- Finally, I believe we will see partners (MVNO). can compete with other opera- continue leading the way in come, and Google will no doubt more people using software and My recently launched a 4G tors,” Viroj said. content marketing and brand- further select what content will strategies with the goal of mak- service through a partnership In addition, CAT will tap the ing, appealing to our need for make our inboxes, all supposedly ing posts and content go viral. with True Corp. This made the corporate segment by offering instant gratification and shorter in the name of quality control, This will become a common con- state agency the fourth 4G ser- them bundled packages of air- attention spans. however I don’t think they can tent marketing goal, and those vice provider in the country. time and subsidized mobile Also live feed platforms and ever be more accurate than our who are successful will have a Viroj Tocharoenvanith, devices. instant content will be even more own decisions. So Big Brother fantastic year ahead. CAT’s senior executive vice Next year CAT will spend popular as marketers understand censorship will be on the rise. So expect to see more offers president for wireless business, 280 million baht on My market- it better. I am sure these platforms will that invite you to like, comment said that of total forecast rev- ing campaigns and another 100 However, I believe there also become more insular. Popu- and share, tag friends with the enue in the new year, 2.6 billion million baht on handset promo- will be more focus on niche lar content will be more likely aim of driving high levels of tar- baht would be generated by My tional packages, aiming to have marketing. shared if it stays within the plat- geted traffic. 3G and 4G services, up from at least 2 million subscribers by Instead of blanket marketing form and third-party sites will be And if you have a business I 1.6 billion baht this year. The the end of 2017. This year to a large audience, companies given less exposure. An example recommend you read up about remaining 400 million baht will CAT’s marketing budget was should focus on their specific tar- of this is Facebook’s lead gen- these strategies and get out ahead be contributed by MVNO part- only 100 million baht. get market. Understanding this eration marketing, which of the rest. ners, up from 160 million baht The state agency says it has will be key. Social media has, up generates leads without requiring Wishing everyone a very this year. more than 100,000 channels until now, made marketing a lot people to be sent to outside happy and successful 2017! CAT’s My brand targets a where customers can top up easier for the masses but it is get- websites to capture their data. total of 2 million subscribers prepaid accounts, including 7- ting more competitive and this I expect to see a lot more e- Simon Wetherell is a registered next year, 2 per cent of the over- Eleven convenience stores, will ensure success if done cor- commerce ‘shops’ pop up on migration agent and lawyer. He all market, up from 1.7 million Boon Term prepaid refill rectly. Facebook. They will become resides in Thailand and has offices users or a 1.7 per cent market booths and online services. There is also going to be a lot more successful and raise huge in Phuket and Bangkok. For more share this year. CAT is expected to acquire more policing of content, particu- revenues while increasing their information, visit AustralianVisa My currently posts average two more MVNO partners soon. larly by the likes of Google and marketing appeal for businesses Phuket.com, call 095-085 3355 or monthly revenue per prepaid – The Nation Facebook. We are already hear- to get on board. However, that email [email protected]. Benz, TAAP seal new deal GERMAN LUXURY car maker capacities according to the Looking for a place to stay? Mercedes-Benz has overturned Thai market. Over the years, the possibility of building its own we have gained a strong and See more classified ads at assembly plant in Thailand after trustworthy partnership with extending its contract for 12 TAAP. That’s why we decided years with local partner Thonburi to extend this successful coop- www.phuketgazette.net Automotive Assembly Plant eration into the future.” (TAAP). Mr Lettner said the global The deal will see the TAAP production network of factory in Samut Prakarn Mercedes-Benz Cars includes churning out close to 10,000 facilities where vehicles are Mercedes-Benz cars and sport produced in various extension utility vehicles per year, after levels for markets such as having produced more than Thailand, Brazil, India, Indo- 100,000 vehicles since local nesia, Malaysia and Vietnam. production began in 1979. “In Thailand, Mercedes- “This year, we are on track Benz Manufacturing has to reach a new production been in partnership with record, with about 9,000 ve- TAAP since 1979. Over the hicles produced here at the years, this partnership has Bangkok plant,” Andreas involved strong cooperation Lettner, CEO of Mercedes- and support through the con- Benz Manufacturing (Thailand), tinuous expansion of said during a press event at TAAP production lines to fully grounds on December 20. cover Mercedes-Benz’s com- “We highly prioritize efforts pact car, dream car, sedan to strengthen our global com- and SUV categories,” he petitiveness and we are added. continuously expanding our – The Nation 12 PHUKET GAZETTE December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017

Happy birthday Illuzion Jungceylon holds Illuzion discotheque celebrated its second anniversary on December 14 with a party at the Patong dance club, headlined by Australian DJ duo Olivia and Miriam Nervo, who rank among the world’s top-100 beat masters. Christmas concert honoring late King Jungceylon shopping mall in Patong put on a free ‘Wonderful Christmas Concert’ on December 25, starring Thai singing sensations Jennifer Kim, and rising stars from ‘The Voice Thailand’ Plengprapan Gingthong (“Gui- tar”) and Samuch Niumsa-ard (“Nook”), who performed compositions written by the country’s late monarch HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

From Left: Samuch Niumsa-ard (Nook); Plengprapan Gingthong (Guitar); Jennifer From Left: DJ Olivia Nervo and DJ Miriam Nervo. Kim, receive a bouquet from Phuket Governor Chokchai Dejamornthan. Catch Beach Club reopens at Bang Tao Beach Twinpalms’ Catch Beach Club re-opened at Bang Tao Beach on December 24 with a white party attended by more than 1,500 guests.

Twinplams Phuket Group Executive Manager Somjai Tungkoo (front center) with VIP party guests. Partygoers dressed in white for the beach club’s re-opening party. December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 PHUKET GAZETTE 13

Amari Phuket welcomes Limelight hosts wildlife Swiss Society members preservation exposition Pierre-Andre Pelletier, Amari Phuket Vice President and Area General Manager, Limelight Avenue launched a wildlife preservation exposition at the shopping South Thailand, welcomed members of the Swiss Society Board and VIP guest center in Phuket Town in collaboration with the Khaopartaew Wildlife and Na- from Switzerland, Lysandre C Seraidaris – son of Cleon Seraidaris. The senior ture Education Center on December 26. The event runs until January 8, 2017. Mr Seraidaris was a polymath and private tutor of two Thai monarchs: His Majes- ties King Rama VIII and Rama IX, when the monarchs resided in Switzerland. Mr Seraidaris attended the annual Swiss Society Phuket Christmas Dinner at Rim Talay Restaurant, Amari Phuket on December 27.

From Left: Arnaud Foucard-Perrin; Vice President and Area General Manager, South Thailand, Pierre-Andre Pelletier; Swiss Society Phuket Committee members Brigitte Lehmann; Lysandre C. Seraidaris, President Andrea Kotas; Secretary Peter Gisin; Treasurer Phuket City Deputy Mayor Kawee Tansukatanon (left) and head of the Khaopartaew Wildlife Paul Richle; and Vice President Jurg Schwendener. and Nature Education Center Pongchart Chouehom with feathered friends. 14 PHUKET GAZETTE December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 Planning last Royal rites New fusion by the lake at Tré

In the weeks since the passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, thousands of people have flocked to Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall to pay their last respects. Photo: Andy Marchand son. Cremation usually takes In the reign of King Rama V, place at Sanam Luang, the royal a new royal urn was commis- ground situated outside the sioned in the year 1900. Initially Drawing inspiration from some of the most distinguished restaurants in Europe, Tré restaurant boasts pristine views of Banyan Tree Phuket’s Grand Palace. Royal members it was built to temporarily serve signature double pool villas. Photo: Banyan Tree Phuket / Tré IN THAILAND, royal funerals who passed away during the royal funerals while the existing are solemn affairs that take rainy season would therefore urn was being refurbished. How- OVERLOOKING the months to plan. When a mon- have to wait for the dry season ever this royal urn would go on lake and signature arch or a high-ranking member before they could be cremated. to serve in several royal funer- double pool villas at of the royal family passes away, In the days before formalin, als, housing the royal remains of Banyan Tree Phuket, the their body is taken to the Dusit the body would rapidly decom- Queen Rambai Barni, the queen newly reinvented Tré Maha Prasat Throne Hall, pose in the hot, humid climate. consort of King Rama VII, Prin- restaurant offers diners which is part of the Grand Pal- To keep the remains in a neat cess Bejaratana, the only child of an intimate dining expe- ace complex. There the body state, it was usually stripped of King Rama VI. It is also currently rience with a serene vista lies in state whilst craftsmen its flesh before cremation. Any being used ceremonially at King accompanied by a new, work to build the royal funeral remaining flesh would be care- Bhumibol’s funeral. carefully designed menu pyre, an intricately crafted fully removed from the bones, It is said that in the year of international cuisine structure, which could take up and then boiled with fragrant 1984, when Princess Srinagar- along side a premium to nine months to complete. herbs. The flesh was then dried indra, the Princess Mother Western menu. In the weeks since the pass- and stored for cremation later. attended the funeral of Queen Fusing freshly- sourced ing of His Majesty King The last flesh stripping ritual Rambai Barni, she saw how the ingredients with slow- Bhumibol Adulyadej, thousands to take place was during Queen queen’s body was seemingly cooking methods, the al Smoked halibut and wild striped bass of people have flocked to Dusit Savang Vadhana’s funeral. forced into the comparatively fresco dining experience infused with herb butter. Maha Prasat Throne Hall to pay Queen Savang was the queen small urn. Seemingly dis- on the wooden veranda their last respects. The throne consort of King Rama V and tressed, the princess mother draws inspiration from some of the most distinguished res- hall, built by King Rama I in grandmother of King Bhumibol reportedly said, “When I die, taurants in Europe and brings together the expertise of 1790, has served as the final Adulyadej. Since then, forma- please do not do this to me. I Banyan Tree Phuket’s Executive Chef Alfonso de la Dehesa throne room for many deceased lin has been used to preserve will not be comfortable.” and Executive Sous Chef Kreaton Cutajar, who has a dis- royals of the Chakri Dynasty. the bodies of royals while they When the princess mother tinguished background in the kitchens of various Michelin Inside the throne hall lies the awaited cremation. passed away in the year 1995, Star restaurants. royal urn; a large gold plated The royal urn has played an King Bhumibol honored her The new selection of dishes are prepared with modern octagonal structure perched important part in every royal fu- wish and did not use the royal cooking techniques and presented in unique displays of con- high atop a multi-tiered pedes- neral. A monarch’s urn, referred urn for his mother’s body. The temporary culinary art, while keeping intact the traditional tal. The royal urn is 95cm high. to as ‘Phra-Boroma-Kot’, is urn was displayed ceremoni- Thai touch. Flaring at the top, the diameter made of fine wood and covered ally. Her body however was Notable additions to the at the top of the urn is 65cm in gold, with a crown top. laid in a coffin behind a screen menu include entrées such as while the bottom is 46cm. In the King Rama I commissioned in the throne hall. Wagyu striploin steak, Scottish past, the deceased royal was the first royal urn of the Chakri Since then, the practice of langoustines with Madagascar placed inside the urn in a sit- Dynasty in the year 1808. He or- housing a royal’s remains in the peppered sweet breads, and ting or standing position. dered the gold stripped from an royal urn has been done away foie gras with pear purée. The bottom of the urn is older urn to be used in prepara- with, with the exception of Prin- Surf and turf main courses lined with metal grille in order tion for a newly constructed urn cess Bejaratana, who wished for include poached veal tender- to make it strong enough to sup- that would be used to carry his her funeral to be carried out ac- loin, risotto with truffles and port the weight of the body. The own body when he passed away. cording to the ancient traditions homemade duck ham, as well urn is propped on a wooden However not long after it was of Thai royals. as smoked halibut and wild pedestal, with a concave feature completed, the King’s fifth Currently King Bhumibol’s Japanese seaweed broth Ichiban striped bass infused with herb Dashi served Tré style to collect bodily fluids that daughter passed away. King body is placed in a coffin at the butter. might drip from the decompos- Rama I, in his grief asked for Grand Palace, which is hidden The desserts are equally delectable with contemporary twists ing body. These are dried on a her body to be laid in state in behind a screen. Mourners will on the traditional, such as the rich, wholesome rum banana hot pan with fragrant herbs and his royal urn. This marked a pre- see the royal urn, perched atop flambé, or the chocolate soufflé with caramel and authentic va- cremated along with the body cedent where the monarch the wooden pedestal. The nilla ice cream. when the time comes. would sometimes grant a de- king’s body will lie in state un- Another stylish dimension added to the gastronomic experience In the past, Royal funerals ceased member of the royal til the cremation ceremony is the Martini trolley. Enjoy the concoctions shaken or stirred. were usually held in the dry sea- family the use of the royal urn. takes place. – Phuket Gazette December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 PHUKET GAZETTE 15 16 PHUKET GAZETTE December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 Try out some healthy holiday recipes squares. Store in boxes in the freezer.

CHOCOLATE CAKE

I HOPE you have had a great Ingredients: festive season and those with 230g of butter (unsalted) children are enjoying their 25g of dark chocolate time with them during the 2 tablespoons of raw, unsweet- holidays. ened chocolate powder I thought I would offer some 150g of almond meal healthy, tasty and easily made 50g of rice flour alternatives to the standard 2 eggs treats that will keep both kids 50g of xylitol, raw honey, co- and grownups happy. conut sugar – I mix in stevia You’ll notice that the recipe leaf and xylitol is full of good fats such as co- conut milk, butter/ghee, and nut Directions: flour. Melt butter in pan and mix Good fats, (including satu- in chocolate and chocolate rated ones like coconut milk) powder – gently heat all ingre- are critical to young bodies; dients but do not burn. bringing strength to cells, sup- In a bowl mix remaining in- porting good nerve develop- gredients and add chocolate ment and making hormones, butter from pan (after slightly among many other functions. cooling). They also make us feel full, Pour dough mixture into a unlike refined white sugar that Yes, there really is such a thing as healthy chocolate cake. Photo:Dolly Madison’s Designs cake tin (with baking paper not only damages cells when layer) and bake for 20 -25 min- sonsumed in excess, but also Ingredients: Directions: tra raw honey if needed, but the utes at 160 degrees Celsius. makes us feel hungry soon af- 100ml fruit pulp (store bought Mix the ingredients in a banana makes it sweet) As an alternative you could terwards. or prepared yourself). blender or in a jar and shake. 50g of Nut butter (hazelnut, mix in berries, banana, or sliced It is also possible to use fruit Pour the mixture into the cashewnut or peanut butter). apple to mixture. FRUIT FLAVORED juice as a substitute for the fruit molds and freeze overnight. 50ml coconut milk Can be enjoyed warm with COCONUT MILK pulp. fresh whipped cream or cut into POPSICLES Cut open a passion fruit, FAT FUDGE Directions: small pieces, freeze and enjoy strain the juice and remove Mix all ingredients in a cold. You will need popsicle molds seeds. You can also use ba- Ingredients: blender. for this, which are easily avail- nana, mango and berries 250g of butter or ghee (un- Pour the ingredients onto a Craig Burton is a Certified Sports able at most department stores instead of passion fruit. salted, slowly cooked in a slow thin baking tray lined with bak- Nutritionist (CISSN) with a (including Villa and Tesco) and 250ml of Coconut milk cooker to make ghee). ing paper. Make it flat and put Bachelor of Science degree don’t cost too much. Add a teaspoon of xylitol, Leave out or slowly heat to it in the freezer for several (Sports Science) and a National One tray makes a set of four raw honey or coconut flower make the liquid. hours. Then remove the trays Academy of Sports Medicine standard popsicles. sugar. 1-2 Mashed Bananas (Add ex- and cut the fudge into small (PES) certification. Gazette Crossword Test your local knowledge and word power Across 05. Ya bah 10. 2004 disaster 11. Patong Mayor 12. To treat too leniently 15. Two dozen sheets of paper 17. A tax on salt 18. Isle of Man capital Down 01. Steven Spielberg movie about multiplying monsters 02. George Michael band 03. Westerner 04. Eve 06. Control 07. No good, underhanded dealing 08. Style of 1950s shoe with a long pointed toe 09. To hug and kiss 13. To exasperate 14. Christmas 16. _____ New Year!

Solution on opposite page. December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 PHUKET GAZETTE 17 Yachting forum needs more exposure spoke in detail about Pattaya and the Gulf of Thailand, the region’s potential and it’s cur- rent earnings. Mr Patston also pointed out the need for Thai- WE’VE HAD one regatta, two land to be promoted as a whole superyacht rendezvous and a (well done Ron, let’s hope the yacht show in the last few powers-that-be take note). weeks in Phuket, and squeezed The final speaker from the in between all of that was the TMBA was its Chairman, little-talked-about Thailand Matthew Na Nagara, who is Yachting Forum. also General Manager at Port Held one day before the Takola Yacht Marina & Thailand Yacht Show, the sec- Boatyard in Krabi, and who ond edition of the Forum was spoke about ‘Marina Infra- this year was hosted by Phuket structure in Thailand’. Boat Lagoon. The last speaker on the Following the pleasantries, cards was a late change; Tourism Authority of Thailand Trenton Gay, CEO of Gold (TAT) Deputy Governor for In- Coast City Marina & Ship- Vincent Tabuteau: “Half the world doesn’t know we are here”. Photo: Phil Blake ternational Marketing Juthaporn yard, who gave an interesting Rerngronasa kicked-off the fo- authorities are aware of the Phuket, two in Phang Nga, two fied on Koh Samui: Mai Gan view from Australia. He rum. With the audience made up problem and indeed acknowl- in Samui, one in Chonburi and Cape in the North of the island, highlighted some of the les- primarily of local industry play- edge the problems, is progress. one in Traad. and according to the Marine sons Phuket can learn if it ers, a presentation about the An unnamed consultancy is Of the two in Phuket, one is Department, marinas can be wishes to attract more Andaman Sea’s marine tourism apparently looking into all of Kung Bay Marina (just north of built on either side of the cape. superyachts. “The owner de- potential was perhaps preaching this and has been reviewing Ao Po Grand Marina) – a pri- Thongtanode Bay is the second cides where the boat goes, to the converted. Nevertheless it what other countries do and vately owned site in the final site and is located in the south but the crew decide where was great to see the TAT getting will, in due course, present stages of gaining all relevant of the island. In Chonburi – they stay,” he said. involved. their findings and suggestions. permissions. home to Ocean Marina which The Thailand Yachting Fo- Ms Juthaporn was followed The second half of Ms Talking with one of the in- is Southeast Asia’s largest – rum has great potential. It by Jiraporn Jantasiri from the Juthaporn’s presentation was a vestors, the marina and Laem Thien Port has been iden- needs to be better promoted. Marine Department. There was great deal more interesting. The in-water facilities will be com- tified as an ideal site for a If more people in the indus- much fanfare last year prior to Marine Department is claiming pleted approximately 12 marina and is situated in the try locally and from farther the inaugural Thailand Yacht to make ‘Thailand the Marina months after all permissions Sattahip Naval Base. afield are aware of it, they Show (and Thailand Yachting Hub of ASEAN’. As if Thai- have been approved. The sec- The last marina site identi- will attend in greater num- Forum) about the Superyacht land doesn’t have enough hubs, ond marina in Phuket is the fied is in Traad Province – the bers. Charter Licence, and at this this is one I am actually inter- Asian Marina in Phuket Town. most eastern part of Thailand, A platform like this is needed year’s forum, many were wait- ested in seeing come to fruition, The site is already developed adjacent to the Cambodia bor- and I look forward to attending a ing to hear about progress. A and despite the hyperbole (and as a dockyard, but there is po- der – is at Baan Laem-Sork and bigger and better edition in 2017. few sticking points such as hav- there is plenty), the Marine tential to develop it into a is suitable for an inland marina. ing to pay VAT on the value of Department have identified fully-fledged marina. Three speakers from the Duncan Worthington is a long time the yacht, and the need for a eight potential marina sites In Phang Nga the first site is Thailand Marine Business As- Phuket resident and through Infinity friendly approach from immi- around the country. in Taimuang District and has sociation (TMBA) then took Communications (www.infinity- gration to international crew Previously there was talk of been named Aqua Star Marina. turns on the podium. First up comms.com) consults to leading are still ‘in process’. 11 or 12 marina sites, but few Ban Banchan in Takua Tung was Vincent Tabuteau of Asia consumer brands, hospitality and Another way to put it: little details were shared. Now, the District is the second site iden- Marine, talking about ‘Yacht- marine clients in Thailand. In his has changed. However, that Marine Department has come tified and is only 37km from ing in the Andaman Sea’, ‘spare time’ he runs the marine would be too simplistic and in- out with full details on these Phuket International Airport. followed by Ron Patston of portal www.MarineScene.asia. deed unfair. That the relevant eight locations. Two are in Two sites have been identi- Gulf Charters in Pattaya who #OnDeckPhuket George Michael: pop icon who Crossword Solution caught the spirit of the 1980s Turn the page upside down to read the answers. SINGER-SONGWRITER With their good looks, George Michael died aged 53 perma-tans, highlighted hair on December 26. The teenage and hedonistic image, the duo heartthrob turned superstar in captured the go-getting spirit the 1980s in Britain with of the age and fast became one smooth vocals that belied a per- of Britain’s biggest pop acts sonal life shadowed by drug with hits like ‘Club Tropicana’ problems and heartbreak. George Michael performing and ‘Wake Me Up Before You As one half of boy band during the closing ceremony of Go-Go’. Wham! and then as a solo art- the London 2012 Olympic Games Their fame spread globally ist, he created some of the in the Olympic Stadium in east and in 1985, Wham! became biggest hits of the 1980s includ- London. Photo: AFP Photo / Ben the first Western band to play ing ‘Careless Whisper’ and Stansall a concert in China. ‘Faith’, selling over 100 million They split the following year records in a career spanning bizarre accidents – some linked after four British number one nearly four decades. to drugs – than for his music. singles and Michael embarked In recent years, he was rarely He met Andrew Ridgeley at on a solo career, targeting a seen in public, hitting the head- high school and the pair went more adult audience. lines more often for a series of on to form Wham! in 1981. – The Nation 18 PHUKET GAZETTE December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 Angsana launches beachfront branded freehold residences

All images of any kind including graphics; photographs; renderings; drawings and sketches; weather and climate images; landscaping and foliage density and positioning; road or access locations, positioning and/or surfacing are projections and interpretations only and are not final; confirmatory or intended to be a binding representation of any form whatsoever are design process images only. The fact that this image appears to be photographic in nature does not mean that it is a representation of fact nor intended to be. The use of photography is designed to provide the user with a quality image, but not designed to commit the image to be binding or final in any way. The photography and blending used in producing this image deliberately includes editing and image manipulation. BDCL reserves the right to withdraw this Project in the event of a matter not within its control preventing BDCL from undertaking the project. The exclusive Angsana Beachfront Residences have been designed by the Banyan Tree’s award-winning team of architects and designers to create living environments that make the most of the panoramic views and sea breezes. Advertorial the expansive internal and ex- ternal living areas. THE Banyan Tree Group has Secure parking for residents launched a new dimension in and their guests is also part of resort style living with its the package. first branded condominiums Head of Banyan Tree Group in Thailand under the Property Stuart Reading said Angsana brand. the exclusive apartments have Aimed at catering to foreign been designed by the Banyan buyers seeking high-quality Tree’s award-winning team of freehold properties by the sea, architects and designers to cre- the two and three-bedroom ate living environments that residences – each with a pri- make the most of the pan- vate swimming pool and oramic views and sea breezes. expansive patio – are one of the “The residences have a dis- last remaining ‘absolute tinctive flair, right down to the beachfront’ investment oppor- finest finishing touches of in- tunities available in the Bang terior design and prestige Tao area on Phuket’s west coast fittings and accessories,” said The two and three-bedroom residences – each with a private swimming pool and expansive patio – are one – favored for its superior grade Mr Reading, adding that early of the last remaining ‘absolute beachfront’ investment opportunities available in the Bangtao area. of beaches. investors can choose from a passes privileged access to the nightlife of Patong. With a nance. Located within the grounds variety of spacious two or Sanctuary Club, a global net- wide array of sophisticated Angsana’s management of the Laguna Phuket resort, three-bedroom configurations work with more than 40 resorts restaurants and bars all con- team are also on hand to help the condominiums, which will and tailor the properties to fit and hotels, in excess of 60 spas nected by transport facilities, owners profit from renting out be managed by Angsana their specific requirements. and 80 retail galleries. Laguna Phuket boasts all the their condominium on a short- Phuket Resort, are just a few “Discerning investors in This array of exclusive of- qualities that attract the or long-term basis. meters from Bang Tao Beach, Angsana Beachfront Resi- fers and privileges includes world’s most selective travel- Interested investors can providing residents with un- dences will appreciate the value membership of the champion- lers,” said Mr Reading. visit the fully-appointed Show obstructed front-facing views of high-potential returns made ship Laguna Phuket Golf Club, Owners will also have Unit on site to explore the in- of the Andaman Sea. possible by being located voted ‘Thailand’s Best’ in the peace of mind with Angsana’s vestment potential of the The modern tropical apart- within the Laguna Phuket 2015 World Golf Awards. dedicated management of luxury lifestyles afforded by ments, which are designed in neighborhood – on the doorstep “This is a unique area, their condominium providing these exclusive properties. a unique Thai architectural of Asia’s premier luxury resort where modern shopping cen- resort-style hospitality ser- style surrounded by tropical destination.” ters, art galleries, inter- vices and amenities, including For further information or to gardens, are low-density ar- Accompanying ownership national schools and world- a villa host to take care of arrange an exclusive inspection, rangements of only two of a Beachfront Residence, class hospitals are side by side cleaning, gardening, pool ser- contact Laguna Property. apartments per floor to ensure Angsana brings an additional with the heritage of Phuket vicing and all ongoing Tel: 076-362333. Email: info@ total seclusion and privacy in world of luxury. This encom- Old Town and the vibrant grounds and villa mainte- lagunaproperty.com December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 PHUKET GAZETTE 19 New airport planned for Phang Nga A TRANSPORTATION mega- even more pronounced in the project north of Phuket under years to come as the rising development by Bangkok Air- Chinese, Australian and re- ways has been tentatively gional Asian source markets named the Phang Nga- add to the traditional legacy Andaman International Airport. winter snowbird arrivals and In what is being envisaged grow the destination. as either a public-private-sec- Mr Barnett said that the tor partnership or a solely number of hotels in the pipe- private investment, tourism-in- line were increasing. dustry sources have confirmed Overseas investors and in- that Bangkok Airways is in ternational brands are fueling talks with Phang Nga province the momentum of a defined for a large-scale land lease for move north of Khao Lak into the facility, with the environ- Bangsak and beyond, seeing a mental impact assessment series of large upscale proper- already in the works. ties coming online. The proposal has been sub- It is expected that the new mitted to the Forest Department. airport will relieve pressure on The location of the proposed Phuket’s aviation gateway and airport is Moo 4, Baan Tha serve as a tourism hub for Phang Dindaeng, Lam Kaeng subdis- Nga, and as a long-term catalyst trict in Phang Nga’s Thai for sustainable growth. Muang district. It sits on a site Nearby Khao Lak counts of about 2,000 rai (320 hect- Bangkok Airways is in talks with Phang Nga for a large-scale land lease for the project. Photo: Aero Icarus 104 registered tourism estab- ares). lishments with 7,822 rooms Tentative plans for the run- nearby Krabi Airport passed the makes. The Thai resort market said. and is seeing a considerable way are for 3,000 meters, 1.8-million level. of Phang Nga is expected to According to C9 Hotelworks’ influx of international hotels in which would be longer than Bill Barnett, Phuket-based achieve 1 million hotel guests market research, the four-year the pipeline. that of Samui’s airport. Details managing director of C9 in 2016. growth period from 2010-2014 Bangkok Airways boasts a on the cost and facilities of the Hotelworks Co, said the post- “Roll back the clock to 2005 laid the foundation to break the strong track record success- airport have not been unveiled. tsunami decade had set a in the aftermath of the Asian cycle of the destination’s noto- fully managing and marketing Last year, passenger arrivals mainstream stage for a destina- tsunami the year before, and rious seasonality into one with a similar facility on the resort at Phuket International Airport tion success story. [fewer] than 300,000 hotel year-around appeal. island of Samui. exceeded 6.4 million, while “What a difference a decade guest arrivals materialized,” he This is expected to become – Phuket Gazette 20 PHUKET GAZETTE December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 PROPERTY FOR SALE

UNIQUE MINI RESORT NEW SMALL HOUSE THE BAY SKYCLIFF Near Laguna, 4 pool villas, money BEACHFRONT KAMALA LUXURY VILLAS maker. Appraised 35 million POOL VILLA A new small house in Kamala, FOR SALE baht. Fire sale offer by 83-year- FOR SALE / RENT very quiet place, 1 bedroom, 1 liv- old owner. Must sell. Tel: 089- ing room, wc-shower, aircon, 594 4067. WiFi, TV cable. Tel: 094-584 7760 (English & Thai). Email: FIRESALE [email protected] SEA VIEW CONDO Highly discounted massive BUILDING panoramic sea view freehold FOR SALE / RENT A development of 56 new condo. Reduced from 55 million Brand new, 19 apartments, 2 modern residential houses baht, lowest price on the project shops. Ideal for hotel / spa / and commercial buildings and best view. Urgent sale: 36 Chalong Bay. 1 rai. 3 bed- medical clinic. Good location, lo- located in the heart of Phu- million baht. Located in Kata. rooms. Tel: 089-649 9939. cated in Patong. Tel: 094-887 ket Town, Soi Saphan Hin. Please call 080-124 1245. Email: siri_phuket@chang 0869 (English), 088-012 1425 The development offers all Email: kay@phuketandaman runner.com (English & Thai). Email: nuchy functions to support your realestate.com Property with an initial value [email protected] lifestyle within landscaped of 50 million baht. Tel: 061- grounds with views of mas- 065 8917 (English), 062-416 sive green space & forest. RAWAI LAGUNA CHERNG TALAY 8365 (English & Thai). Now ready to move in. Tel: 2-BEDROOM HOME Land plot 5.530sqm. Only 17.8 HOUSE FOR SALE / RENT Email:adelm@50lemons. 095-429 5700. Email: info Private, safe, cozy, small family million baht. Please call 062-215 Located in Boat Lagoon, 3 bed- com, http://50lemons.com @sky-cliff.com home. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1802. Email: soipasak8@gmail. rooms. Tel: 097-230 5717. large living room. European com kitchen, large driveway & yard. Close to ISP School Rawai, Chalong & Rawai Piers. Cha- INVESTMENT note Title. 6.9 million baht. X2 VIBE PHUKET OPPORTUNITY Please call 081-787 9366 (En- BANGTAO glish & Thai). Email: hhc.phu [email protected]

APT FOR SALE

Luxury 3-storey, swimming pool, walled garden house. Standing in a very nice posi- tion between Rawai and Nai Guaranteed return 7% for Harn area, all in a 5-minute CHALONG STUDIO APT drive to the nice beach. Op- 3 years,1 bedroom, from Beautiful, 30sqm, fully furnished POOL VILLA FOR SALE tional to be 5 bedrooms and 4.59 million baht. Fully fur- with high standard amenities bathrooms with a separate nished. Foreigner freehold. and ready to move in. Chalong maid's room. Large outside Beautiful 51.50sqm studio Tel: 076-510 449, 095-037 area with view over Phunaka Golf living area with 740sqm of apartment, furnished, wifi, 8150 (English & Thai). drive range. Low maintenance land. For sale at 12 million CCTV, telephone line, swim- Email: sales@oceanstone- fees and close to all facilities. baht. Tel: 095-061 2868, 081- ming pool, elevator. Quality phuket.com, www.ocean 1.49 million baht. Email: mber 397 1835. Email: l.dewis@ construction. Short walk to stone-phuket.com/ [email protected] hotmail.com Kata beach. Tel: 098-713 0176.

Private pool villa 3 bed- rooms. In Rawai. Special 2-BEDROOM HOUSE price for Christmas. Tel: 085- IN CHALONG LUXURY SEAVIEW POOL VILLA FOR SALE 392 6666. Email: dchaibut In Ananda Gardens, a quiet @gmail.com location close to Chalong Pier and Home Pro. Newly decorated inside and out. 2.7 million baht. For further details in English, please POOL HOME 8.5 MB call 093-651 4162. Email: KWANG ROAD [email protected] Fully furnished in Manee- kram Village no. 68/126 Soi Maneekram 15. Asking Hillside in Phuket Town. price at 8.5 million baht. 3 HUA HIN Near Mission Hospital. 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 5 3-BEDROOM POOL VILLA bedrooms with aircons, 6 aircons, 2-car parking, Only 5 pool villas left, brand-new bathrooms, living room, CCTV, small garden. All furnished villa. Plot size: 450 maid's room, 40sqm swim- movable wood furniture is sqm, living area: 150sqm. 10- ming pool. 728sqm area. For teak. Land is 298sqm. minute drive to beaches, golf sale: 19.5 million baht. Tel: House is 380sqm. Transfer courses, shopping. 4.25 million 089-729 8009. Email: spec and taxes are shared at baht. Ready to move in. Tel: 087- [email protected] 50:50. Tel: 062-775 6999. 821 1077, 085-665 9532. December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 PHUKET GAZETTE 21 PROPERTY FOR RENT

BUILDING RAWAI VILLA FOR SALE / RENT LUXURY VILLAS FOR RENT Brand new, 19 apartments, 2 FOR SALE shops. Ideal for hotel / spa / medical clinic. Good location, lo- cated in Patong. Tel: 094-887 0869 (English), 088-012 1425 (English & Thai). Email: nuchy [email protected]

BEACH HOUSES CHALONG 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms. Sea views, pool, furnished, 2 & 3 Short/long-term available. bedroom houses from 12,000 LINE ID: dallas26. For more baht, Wifi, cable TV. included. information, please call 085- Tel: 089-470 6104. www.house 392 6666. Email: dchaibut rentalsphuket.com Property with an initial value @gmail.com of 50 million baht. Tel: 061- 065 8917 (English), 062-416 40 METERS OF 8365 (English & Thai). BEACHFRONT LAND TENNIS CLUB Email:adelm@50lemons. FOR LEASE com, http://50lemons.com FOR LEASE / SALE 2,400sqm land at Chalong Bay. Established for 10 years on Tel: 081-826 9390. 1.5 acres with regular custom- ers. Due to the owner returning KATHU FLAT overseas. Now the business is 100sqm, furnished, secure, con- available for sale 9.5 million baht/ HOLIDAY HOMES venient location, good area for ex- rai. Chalong-Rawai. Tel: 081-569 & VILLA RENTALS ercise. Tel: 086-664 5575 (En- 6026 (English & Thai). Email: glish). Email: hkmsn@yahoo. [email protected], www. com KATHU HOUSE HOUSE FOR RENT phuketsport.com FOR RENT 10MIN TO AIRPORT HOUSE WITH POOL 14,000 BAHT / MONTH COZY HOUSE FOR RENT Furnished, aircon, kitchen, free CONDO FOR RENT A high-grade house, furnished, cable TV & internet, swimming NEAR CENTRAL minutes from Rawai and Nai- pool, green area. Located at Harn. Two large bedrooms with Welcome Inn Villa Rawai. Tel: ensuite bathrooms and aircon. 089-475 1200 (English & Thai). One guest toilet. Large living / Email: info@welcomeinnvilla. dining room. Telephone and com, http://welcomeinnvilla. internet. 20,000 baht per month. com Located in Sai Yuan. Tel: 081- 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 bedrooms, living room, big 895 3043 (English & Thai), 061- fully furnished, 3 aircons. NAI YANG HOUSE sala, garage, aircon, fast 692 3654 (English & Thai). For more information, internet. 20,000 baht/month. FOR RENT Centrio Condo, fully fur- Email: [email protected] please call 087-266 7191. For more information, please nished, ready to move in, Quiet, modern, furnished 2 and call 081-719 7015. Email: jy 5th floor. Near Central Festi- 4 bedrooms with ensuite bath- [email protected] PATONG TOWER CONDO rooms. Kitchen, aircon, internet, val. 13,000 baht / month. 6- Long term only. 66sqm, fur- TV. 700m from Nai Yang Beach. month contract. Line ID: nished, True Vision and WiFi. Starts at 15,000 baht/month enimguru. Tel: 086-800 4131 6TH FLOOR Tel: 081-892 1621. (long term). Tel: 081-837 5774 (English & Thai). Email: nim FURNISHED CONDO (English), 092-431 5962 (En- [email protected], www. FOR RENT LONG-TERM RENT glish & Thai). Email: info@ thecentrio.com/en/ (MINIMUM 1 YEAR) adrinflatables.com ACCOMMODATION AVAILABLE

PATONG 5,000 BAHT / MONTH Very large ensuite room with balcony, utilities and kitchen In small friendly atmos- available, and apartment avail- Long-term rent. Great loca- phere building close to the able, at sensible long-term rate tion, fully furnished 2-bed- markets & shops in Kata in Patong. 10 minutes to beach room/2-bathroom condo Beach center with indoor and to Jungceylon. Only 5,000 with kitchen next to new pool, sauna, elevator. 1) baht plus electricity monthly. Duty-Free Mall, overlook- 65sqm apartment, com- Also weekly. Negotiable rates. ing lake. 100m swimming pletely furnished, first floor, Tel: 081-082 2897 (English & pool, gym, internet, 2 cable close to the pool. 24,000 Thai). Email: reservations@ TVs, 3 aircons, washing ma- baht/month. 2) 60sqm stayphuket.info chine, parking. Security. apartment, third floor, new Close to all shopping malls. luxury furnishing (never 25,000 baht/month. Lo- used). 24,000 baht/month. LUXURY 1-BED CONDO cated in Kathu. Please call 3) Fourth floor 60sqm apart- 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, condo 081-893 9127 (English), ment also new furnishing. in central Patong. 500m to 087-886 7895 (Thai). Email: 26,000 baht/month. Tel: 081- beach, 1km to Bangla. Quiet. [email protected]. 788 8280. Email: maurice. Please call 091-874 9505. uk [email protected] Email: [email protected] 22 PHUKET GAZETTE December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 JOBS / RECRUITMENT

PROPERTY SALES & ADMIN Siam Real Estate requires a Thai person with good English lan- guage skills to assist with rental sales, admin & taking listings. Must drive, be computer literate and have experience in property. Rawai. Tel: 076-383646. Send CV to jobs@siam realestate.com

SCUBA TRAVEL AGENT Email: [email protected], please see details in weblink: https://magazine.diviac.com/ job-vacancy-online-travel-agent/

LAWYER WANTED URGENTLY! Prefer Thai female, 22-35 years old. Bachelor's degree in law or equivalent, new graduate is wel- come. Fair English skills. Lo- cated in Patong. Tel: 076-344 180, 093-686 8525. Email: ad [email protected]

OPERATIONS ASSISTANT Required at weddings & events company in Cherng Talay. Must have experience in events and work under pressure. Good or- ganizational skills, hard working, good administration skills. Tel: 089-973 2159. Email: meesak @phuketweddingsevents.com

GENERAL CLASSIFIEDS

BUSINESS CLUB BULLETINS OPPORTUNITIES MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE

SOI TIGER BAR FOR SALE PCC Turnkey with all equipment, 4th PHUKET COUNTRY CLUB row. 8-month lease. For rent: Lifetime family membership. 50,000 baht/month. Price nego- 440,000 baht. Price includes tiable for quick sale. For more in- transfer fee. Located in Kathu. formation, please call 086-943 Tel: 076-319956, 088-760 5252 6574 (English & Thai). Email: (English), 096-842 7514 (English [email protected] & Thai). Email: jimbeckett41@ hotmail.com

SAILING COMPANY PHUKET COUNTRY CLUB Established in 1999 - Sailing Lifetime family membership School, Charter service, 440,000 baht includes transfer Yacht Chandlery and Man- fee. Tel: 091-034 0495 (English), agement for sale complete - 082-805 3403 (English & Thai). yachts, dinghies, vehicles, Email: mikecahill1806@gmail. and advance sales, with all com staff and infrastructure in place. Many opportunities for growth and expansion. Capital for four work permits. BLUE CANYON Sale due to the principal's MEMBERSHIP health. Tel: 076-397942, Lifetime membership for 081-370 1995 (English). sale 690,000 baht plus Fax: 076-397942. Email: transfer fee. Tel: 087-887 [email protected], www. 9506. Email: onobu.yukio@ sailing-thailand.com gmail.com December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017 PHUKET GAZETTE 23 BOATS & MARINE

TEAKBOAT FOR SALE Perfect live aboard boat for Phang Nga Bay or 15 tons of 100 years old Teak wood. 300,000 baht or best offer. For more infor- mation, please call 080-549 6614. Email: sak.andamansky@ gmail.com

20M BERTH RENTAL AT R.P.M Private owner offers 20m E dock berth for long term rental at the Royal Phuket Marina. Berth will accommodate yachts of up to 20m and significant discounts are available for a long term agreement. Contact for further information. Tel: +44-786-658 8395 (English). Email: james@ shayler.co

SESSA 20 MOTORBOAT FOR SALE 20 foot walk-around motorboat, 2007, includes trailer, 140hp 2- stroke Mercury engine, 9.8hp Tohatsu spare engine, toilet, cushions, fenders, ropes, etc. 740,000 baht. Thalang. For more information, please call 090-153 1833 (English). Email: jhorr2000 @yahoo.de

WHEELS GENERAL AVIATION & MOTORS

MAZDA 3 FOR SALE Perfect condition. Please call 092-261 4287.

MITSUBISHI PAJERO FOR SALE Pajero Sport Diesel, 4WD, auto- matic, top model, October 2014, 64,000km, 1 owner, no acci- dents, 7 seats, navigation sys- tem, etc. 890,000 baht. Located in Thalang. Tel: 090-153 1833 (English). Email:jhorr2000@ya hoo.de

BICYCLES

ZIPP CARBON RACE WHEELS 404 tubular, perfect condition. Asking price: 41,000 baht (new 110,000). No box. Tel: 084-625 5090.

GIANT OCR RACE BIKE Brand new junior 24" wheels, 8- 14 years. Asking price: 14,000 baht (new price: 24,000 baht). Tel: 084-625 5090. 24 PHUKET GAZETTE December 31, 2016 - January 6, 2017