PhuketGazette.net PHUKET’S LEADING NEWSPAPER... SINCE 1993 PhuketGazette

June 18 - 24, 2016 Now inside THE NAT I ON every Saturday 56 Pages / 20 Baht

Bay Boat collision kills two tourists, twenty injured TWO speedboats collided in Phang Nga Bay on June 8. Both drug tests on the boat operators’ have come up negative. Heavy rains were blamed for the collision that 70th anniversary killed two tourists and in- of HM King’s reign jured about twenty. marks return of Surin Story on Page 3 Beach to the public BUSINESS

By Kongleaphy Keam

MORE than 5,000 people, including gov- ernment and military officials, as well as yellow-clad locals, poured onto Surin Beach for its grand reopening on the 70th anniversary of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s coronation on June 9. The beach’s reopening comes after the Social media forums are April demolitions of private structures, the next big thing in busi- operating on public land. ness marketing strategy. The renovated beach and surrounding land was renamed as ‘Rajabhakti Park’, in honor of His Majesty. Region 4 Army PROPERTY Deputy Commander Kunnawut Morkaew headed the ceremonies after being invited by provincial officials. The ceremonies got underway at 7am, with provincial officials giving alms to Buddhist monks. Christian, Muslim, Sikh and Hindu blessings for the beach and His Majesty the King were conducted by the island’s religious leaders. Let’s discuss who buys Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipaya- what and where – the prop- pongtada also used the beach opening to erty drivers on the island. announce the launch of 12 ‘Love the Beach Community’ projects, which partner local communities with beaches in an attempt LIFE&STYLE to keep them clean and safe. The festivities included a photo con- test and exhibition, under the theme ‘royal duties in modern-day and historical Phuket’; a Phuket gastronomy food con- Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada used the beach opening to announce test; an exhibit and information booth the launch of 12 ‘Love the Beach Community’ projects. Photo: Phuket PR about sailboats, traditional local sports and cultural performances. Participants “Today, we can witness the great efforts den dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit; also released turtles into the sea and of the Phuket officers who’ve worked on an exhibit showing projects initiated by His planted trees. beach management.” Majesty the King in 76 provinces; a sail- Phuket’s cycling infrastruc- “It is our great pleasure to honor His Officials have announced plans to spend boat museum; a golf course… ture could be modelled Majesty and the natural wonders of Surin 60 million baht on improvements to the along the lines of Brisbane’s. Beach today,” said Maj Gen Kunnawut. beach, including planting a botanical gar- Continued on Page 4 2 PHUKET GAZETTE June 18 - 24, 2016 Russian father Crane collapse kills nearly drowns 5-year-old son PATONG Beach lifeguards Man murders saved the life of a 5-year-old one, injures three Russian boy, who nearly drowned while being taught to girlfriend’s ex swim by his father on June 7. ONE man is dead after being Passersby reportedly ap- found by his lover’s boyfriend at proached the boy’s father and the Irawadee condo in Kathu. tried to warn him against hold- “We found the body of ing his son’s head under water, Metha Kaowadee, 36, with in what appeared to be an at- three stab wounds and head in- tempt to teach his son how to juries,” said Lt Sawanya hold his breath. Eiattrong of Kathu Police. A lifeguard said the man Wachaya Thepsing, 29, re- later ran up the beach carrying ported to police that Mr Metha, his unconscious son, seeking her ex-boyfriend, visited her help from the lifeguards who room on June 14, when her cur- resuscitated the boy. rent boyfriend, Suriya Krua- – Pruth Kulprasit kaew, 39, arrived and found them in flagrante. She said that Mr Suriya was enraged and Elderly man stabbed Mr Metha. The two then reportedly es- dragged under caped to Phang Nga on Ms Wachaya’s motorbike. Police dump truck are hunting for Mr Suriya. A 79-YEAR-old motorcy- – Winai Sarot clist was crushed to death Police have ordered a halt to construction of an eight-storey building near Phuket International Airport, when he collided with a gar- after a crane collapsed at the site on June 10, killing one construction worker and injuring three others. bage truck in Mai Khao on Hungry python The cause of the crane collapse is still unclear. Kritsana Crane Company and the developer, Phuket June 9. Sirinath Property, have been ordered to stop construction while investigations are underway. The injured The man’s motorbike was caught near were taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital. Photo: Kritsada Mueanhawong wedged under the front right wheel of the truck, with his Patong school Kalim School. with CCTV footage. body stuck to the back left A THREE meter long python Department of Disaster Pre- Serial purse Nissan Islam, 21, was appre- wheel. was captured near a school in vention and Mitigation said the hended while he was driving. The man was fasting for Patong on June 14. python was later released into thief arrested Mr Nissan confessed, and Ramadan, and had just left his The snake was found with its the wild near a Chinese shrine POLICE arrested a serial purse was charged for two counts of house in search of food to head stuck in netting covering on Patong Hill. snatcher in Patong on June 9, robbery. break his fast. a chicken coop next to Baan – Chutharat Plerin after tracking his whereabouts – Kritsada Mueanhawong – Winai Sarot June 18 - 24, 2016 PHUKET GAZETTE 3 Speedboat collision kills two, leaves more than 20 injured A BOAT collision between two speedboat ferries killed two tourists and wounded 20 more, on June 8, officials confirmed. Phuket police said they have drug tested both boat operators, with both tests coming back negative. Both boat operators blamed heavy rain for the inci- dent, which occurred in Phang Nga Bay. Police identified the dead tourists as Liang Guanfu, 62, and Xu Tingting, 29, both Chi- nese nationals. The deceased were taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital. The deceased and injured were ferried back to Phuket's Rassada pier after the incident, authorities told the Gazette. Five wounded tourists are still in recovery: one in Phuket Bangkok Hospital, one in Phuket Provincial Hospital and three in Vachira Phuket Hospi- tal. The rest have been The two speedboats were reportedly carrying 62 passengers between them, mostly Chinese and Korean nationals. Photos: Kritsada Mueanhawong. discharged. One Chinese man underwent about one million baht for each departed from Koh Kai and down, which made it turn to rarely happen, but we’ve facial reconstructive surgery at of the deceased victims,” said were headed to Maya Bay on starboard, following the direc- learned from this incident, and Bangkok Hospital Phuket. Phuket Provincial Police Com- Phi Phi island,” said Col tion of the wind. The Hongfah we are working to avoid trag- Phang Nga and Phuket offi- mander Teerapol Thipjaroen. Teerapol. “The two boats were then collided with the Chanakit edies like this one in the future.” cials visited the victims in Police questioned Jakrapong moving parallel to each other, on her side. “Our officers have to check hospital on the day of the inci- Naweewong, the captain of Chanakit on the left and Police reported that the the health and condition of boat dent, and confirmed that the tour Chanakit 856, and Anan Hongfah on the right,” Chanakit was carrying 36 pas- operators, their boat’s condition, companies will be held respon- Pramongkit, the captain of Police reported that about 15 sengers and the Hongfah 26 at make certain there are enough sible for the victims’ hospital Hongfah 20. Both operators minutes into the journey, the the time of the collision. life jackets and that weather expenses. have been charged with reckless boats encountered very heavy “There are more than conditions are satisfactory, be- “Both boats have insurance, driving resulting in death and rain. 300,000 boats leaving Phuket’s fore letting the boats leave so the companies will pay about injury. With visibility obscured, the shores every year,” Col Teerapol shore,” he added. 50,000 baht for each injury and “Both operators said that they Chanakit reportedly slowed said. “These kinds of accidents – Kritsada Mueanhawong Collision prompts regulatory inquiry OFFICIALS from the Phuket Phuket Yacht Control Center’s Marine Office (PMO) told the potential to accommodate tour- Phuket Gazette that the investi- ists in a far-ranging area, and gation into a fatal speedboat col- increase our incident-response lision in Phang Nga Bay on June capacity.” 8, may result in additional regu- Mr Tanthai said the PMO’s lations for speedboat operators. expanded operations will be Tanthai Wongsayree, an of- coupled with additional regula- ficer with the PMO, said that tions for boats leaving Phuket. staff are in the process of re- “We plan to put forward viewing the causes of the boat regulations mandating that ev- collision, which wounded 20 ery tourist boat have a radio to tourists and killed two Chinese contact nearby boats or piers. nationals. This is better than only having Mr Tanthai said the PMO contact with the PYCC, because plans to expand its operational it will allow operators to coor- capacity as a result of the inves- dinate disaster response at sea tigations. more immediately,” he said. “We are going to broaden the – Sukawin Tanthavanich 4 PHUKET GAZETTE June 18 - 24, 2016 Celebrations honoring HM Sea gypsies sue the King reopen Surin Beach From page 1

… a pavilion; a photo center; and statues of the seven kings of Siam from the Sukothai pe- riod. In addition to these celebra- tions, the return of Surin Beach to its former glory for the 70th anniversary commemorations of His Majesty the King’s reign, was a chance to celebrate Phuket’s culinary culture and the province’s recent nomina- tion by UNESCO as a ‘City of Gastronomy’. Members of Rawai’s sea gypsy community gather outside Phuket Organized by Phuket Mu- Provincial Hall during mediated talks on June 9. Photo: Kongleaphy Keam nicipality, the culinary contest had teams competing to make MORE than 200 of Rawai’s sea shield,” Mr Chatree said. “If we the best herbal rice dishes and gypsies are named as plaintiffs win the case, the sea gypsies Hokkien noodles for which the in a civil lawsuit against Baron will pay, and how could they province is famous. Dignitaries officially reopen Surin Beach. From left: Mayor Somjai World Trade Co Ltd, for alleg- possibly have the money to pay Suwansupana; Gen Kunnawut Morkaew; Phuket Governor Chamroen The Phuket pineapple had its Tipayapongtada and his wife Vassana. Photo: Phuket PR edly blocking access to their for the lawsuit?” Mr Chatree own special place in the cel- sacred ceremonial grounds. said. “This is a civil case. But ebrations, with judges sampling apple carving contest. linary contest winners with The land conflict between the if they sue us in a criminal case locally grown pineapples and Phuket City Mayor Somjai prizes provided by Gen sea gypsies and Baron World and we win, I will sue them nine teams competing in a pine- Suwansupana awarded the cu- Kunnawut. Trade has led to a number of back and they will be the ones confrontations between the two who go to jail.” groups in the last few months. Mr Chatree said Baron owns The sea gypsies complain that the rights to the land and will workers from Baron continually continue to build. block access to an ancient sa- “We agreed to pause the cred site for their people. construction because we The lawsuit, which was filed thought we could broker an June 13, calls for 500,000 baht agreement with them, but that’s in reparations to the commu- fallen through, so we’ll keep on nity, and is the latest doing our work.” development in the ongoing A meeting between govern- land feud between the sea gyp- ment officers, sea gypsy sies and the land developer. leaders, human rights activists Pasit Tavornlamlert, the sea and Baron World Trade man- gypsies lawyer told the Gazette agement on June 9 ended that the lawsuit, led by without a decision on any Nuengruthai Raknawa, repre- viable solutions to the ongoing sented 203 sea gypsies in total. land dispute. “We went to the court on A gathering of the sea gypsy June 13, and we are suing Baron community was left distraught for troubling the community by after the Region 4 Army deputy blocking their access to the sa- commander, Kunnawut Mor- cred site. That’s caused the sea kaew, left Phuket Provincial gypsies bodily injury and has Hall after the meeting without negatively affected their liveli- accepting a letter they had pre- hoods as fishermen, since they pared for him. have to look out for Baron work- “Nothing has been decided ers blocking the area to start land so far. The issues still need to work,” Mr Pasit said. “We have be processed through the court,” an appointment with the courts said Maj Gen Kunnawut after on August 15.” the meeting. Baron World Trade repre- Officials stated that they had sentative Chatree Madsatun tried to explain that the rejec- said he isn’t worried about the tion of the letter was a lawsuit, and is willing to see the misunderstanding, but were sea gypsies in court. unable to persuade representa- “I have no ideas why they tives from the sea gypsy are doing this,” Mr Chatree community that that was indeed said. “We have the rights to the the case. land legally. More over, at least “The NGOs and human nine of the sea gypsies have rights activists shouldn’t do this been wanted by the Phuket Pro- to the sea gypsies,” Mr Chatree vincial Court for damaging our said. “Those people have no property. I pity them.” idea what they’re facing.” “These human rights activ- – Kongleaphy Keam and ists are using them as a human Chutharat Plerin June 18 - 24, 2016 PHUKET GAZETTE 5 Ladyboy romp Safety team inspects mall columns ends with an By Kongleaphy Keam empty wallet JUNGCEYLON CEO Prawit Janyasitikul said on June 9 that A LADYBOY was arrested in his building poses no danger to the early hours of June 14, after shoppers, after an anonymous allegedly stealing money from a source posted pictures of Singaporean tourist in Patong. cracked and degraded pillars Around 3am, Ng Wei Kiat, 31, underneath the Patong shop- met Tanakorn Jaiban, 25, on ping mall. Bangla Road. Four concrete columns were “Mr Kiat was reportedly in- found to be damaged in the terested in Ms Tanakorn, and mall’s basement indoor market, they both went to have some fun the Port Zone. The area was im- in a hotel room on Phra Metta mediately closed off after the Road,” said Lt Col Weerapong discovery, but the rest of the Rakito of the Patong Police. shopping mall remains open for “Later, Mr Kiat found that he business, Mr Prawit said. was missing 402 Singaporean “The safety of our shoppers Dollars. Both argued over the and staff is our first priority. missing amount until hotel staff There is no danger to anyone,” called the police.” Mr Prawit said. The two were taken to the Phuket Governor Chamroen Gov Chamroen visits the closed-off section of Jungceylon mall, as part of a delegation to visit the sitte. The police station to be searched. Tipayapongtada, Patong Mayor governor encouraged residents to remain calm, and said panic may discourage tourism. Photo: Phuket PR “It was at that point that Ms Chalermluck Kebsup and Tanakorn excused herself to go Kathu District Chief Sayan lars right now. Engineers are to shoppers. said. “Engineers will check the to the toilet. She was acting sus- Chaichanawong, along with the looking into it,” said Mr Prawit. “At this stage, the area is whole structure, to ensure visi- piciously, as though she was Jungceylon management team, About 20 shops in the area closed. Experts are examining tors’ safety.” trying to get something out of her inspected the closed-off area are affected by the closure. the causes of the columns’ deg- Gov Chamroen said underwear, when a police officer around 8pm on June 9. At the Jungceylon confirmed that they radation. Beams are being put Phuket’s primacy as a tourist told her to stop. She quickly time, workers from KCS & As- will not charge them rent while in place to support the broken destination is challenged when- locked herself in the toilet,” Col sociates Co Ltd, appeared to be the area is closed off. pillars. An engineer from the ever issues of safety are called Weerapong said. shoring up the columns with Gov Chamroen urged the Department of Public Works into question. Police then broke down the steel I-beams. public to remain calm. and Town and Country Plan- “Please don’t panic. We will door and found Ms Tanakorn “We cannot explain the Jungceylon management has ning will also make an do our best to ensure citizens’ holding 402 Singapore Dollars. cause of the damage to the pil- stated they will reopen the area inspection,” Gov Chamroen and tourists’ safety,” he said. – Kritsada Mueanhawong 6 PHUKET GAZETTE June 18 - 24, 2016 Taskforce seizes Geologists battle waves Oldest fossils in Thailand face monsoon swells, lowering budgetary tide GEOLOGISTS in Krabi are illegal lumber seeking a solution in the fight to preserve one of Thailand’s largest fossil sites, after it was damaged by monsoon waves. Some of the naturally- formed slabs of fossilized shells, believed to be about 75 million years old, at Fossil Shell Beach – locally known as ‘Susan Hoi’ – have broken off this week, after heavy waves repeatedly broke against them. The beachfront site in Noppharat Thara - Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park is the largest in the country, and was Visitors at Fossil Shell Beach walk out across the 75 million year old pounded by rough monsoon slabs of fossilized shells. Photo: Kritsada Mueanhawong weather in recent weeks. Pleanprasob Khaonuan of the Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park said that this was not the first time that Members of the forestry taskforce pose with an illegal cache of lumber the fossil plate has been dam- found in Khao Lak Khao Ton forest. Photo: Kritsada Mueanhawong aged, but national park officers are still working on a way to INVESTIGATORS in Phang wood had been cut and hidden preserve the site. Nga’s Takuapa District seized on the roadside. However, we “At this stage, we have yet more than one tonne of contra- found no one around when we to find a solution,” Mr band lumber found in protected seized the wood.” Pleanprasob said. “We have forests on June 11, conserva- Mr Manit said the culprits been requesting an increased tion officials confirmed. faced multiple charges, includ- budget in order to build a wall The team, led by Takuapa ing illicit logging in a forest that would protect the area. District Chief Manit Pianthong, preserve, cutting down pro- However, our request has seized a total of 43 pieces of tected species, as well as never been considered, as it lumber that had been cut from charges related to illegal pos- would cost about 400 million Monsoon season swells have battered the beachfront site in Mu Ko protected trees in the Khao Lak session of the timber totalling baht.” Phi Phi National Park. Photo: Kritsada Mueanhawong Khao Ton forest preserve. 1.20 cubic meters. Mr Pleanprasob said that the Protected trees in Thailand The province, located some site is currently considered as Krabi coastline,” said the board, in order to find a so- include the threatened Rose- 60km north of Phuket, has of- an ancient fossil site by the Thanyathorn Thonrat of the lution as soon as possible. wood and Teak varieties. ten been used by illegal loggers Department of Mineral Re- DMR. “It’s a very important Registering Susan Hoi as a fos- “The illegal lumber was for their illicit trade. sources (DMR), which may site; the only one in Thailand. sil site is the best solution we found in Bang Muang sub-dis- Officers have yet to estimate allow for additional funding of It’s probably the only such site can think of. However, it could trict. All of the wood found at the total value of the logged the proposed sea barrier. like it in the world, and it’s in take up to a year to get ap- the site came from protected wood. “The shell field extends critical condition now,” proval,” she added. trees,” Mr Manit said. “The – Kritsada Mueanhawong along a 2km stretch of the “We will raise the issue with – Kritsada Mueanhawong Nearly extinct bird to breed again THE Wildlife Conservation we came up with the idea to Office plans to build a ‘house breed them with the male.” of love’ to breed rare birds that “The male was put in a three were recently discovered in square meter cage, built in the Khaopra-Bangkham forest in forest by the Wildlife Conserva- Krabi. tion Office, to get him The birds, known as Gurney’s comfortable living there,” ex- Pitta, had disappeared for many plained Mr Wuttipong. years prior to the first sighting of “As soon as he gets used to a female in mid-April and an- the cage, we will make a bigger A Gurney’s Pitta. Photo: Kritsada other at the end of May. one for him. We will also install Mueanhawong “We have a male Gurney’s CCTV to monitor his behavior from the Wildlife Conservation Pitta from the Klong Saeng En- and see if he calls out to the fe- Office, who teamed up to search vironmental Conservation males,” he added. for the birds, also heard the call Center in Surat Thani, which Mr Wuttipong said that the of another male bird nearby. was raised there by humans,” caged area is prohibited for any- “It’s encouraging to know Wuttipong Chusangrat, head of one but the officers. “Once the that the Gurney’s Pittas are still the Wildlife Conservation Of- female and male get together, in existence,” he added. “We fice, told the Phuket Gazette. we will build a larger cage, cov- will make every effort to breed “The bird is not found any- ering about one rai. This will be them in order to preserve the where else in Thailand. When their ‘home of love’,” he said. species.” the two females were sighted, Ornithologists and officials – Kritsada Mueanhawong June 18 - 24, 2016 PHUKET GAZETTE 7 Woman killed Sex offending as runaway teacher arrested pick-up plows in Bangkok A TEACHER at Suankularb into spectators Wittayalai School, who allegedly A PICK-UP truck plowed into molested schoolboys and shared spectators at a famous motor images and video clips of his circuit in Khon Kaen Province exploits with others via Twitter, on June 11, killing one woman was taken into custody after an and wounding six people. arrest warrant was issued on June “The driver was racing at the 10, police said the next day. back of the race track, when the Sarot Meepai, 33, was ar- headlights suddenly went out. rested in Bangkok, where he The vehicle then swerved into was transferred pending a fact- the crowd,” Pol Major Prayut finding disciplinary probe, Kambornpitak, inspector at Nam Central Investigation Bureau Phong Police Station, said on chief Maj-General Thitirat June 12, citing testimony by eye- Nongharnphithak said. witnesses. The accident occurred The teacher said he had sex just outside the racecourse. with people who were all over The pick-up driver appar- 20 years old. ently ignored the rules of the racecourse that barred vehicles Suvarnabhumi- from revving up their engines and testing their speed outside bound bus goes designated tracks on the circuit. up in flames ahead of the Euro 2016 tour- More than nament, Pongsapat received Shooters give AN AIR-conditioned bus head- campaign material from Lt Col ing to Suvarnabhumi Interna- 1,000 arrested Noon Sansanakhom, a Govern- themselves up tional Airport burst into flames ment Lottery Office board the morning of June 13 on an for Euro 2016 member, and other anti-gam- TWO more young suspects sur- elevated road in Bangkok’s Lat bling networks at Royal Thai rendered to police on June 13 Krabang District, police said. gambling spree Police headquarters. in trouble with officials or po- in relation to the shooting death The 20 passengers and bus Noon said the GLO Founda- lice in the Huai Khwang area of a 15-year-old boy at an in- driver, Ratana Jenraksa, fled MORE than 1,000 suspected tion for Social Development only. tersection in Bangkok’s Min the bus and there were no inju- gamblers and bookmakers were and its allies produced 2,000 vi- On June 7, a task force from Buri District on June 8. ries. It took firefighters 20 arrested as police targeted Euro nyl signs saying “[People’s] the Interior Ministry led police The boy was shot dead by minutes to put out the fire that 2016 betting. lives are safe if [they] refrain in a raid of the massage parlor one of three students riding on consumed the entire bus. “No minors were found to be from football gambling” for the in Bangkok’s Huai Khwang a motorcycle while he was The driver told police he was involved,” said deputy national center to distribute to precincts district and detained 77 foreign riding his own motorcycle driving when smoke came out police chief Pongsapat Pong- nationwide. women. home with a friend. of the engine. charoen on June 13. He also urged the public to In his capacity as chairman alert authorities about football of the anti-gambling police betting activities by calling 191 center, which was launched or 1599. Frozen Granny Hwai Kwang for 30 dollars police bribed by A NORTH Carolina woman bought her neigh- Nataree staff bor’s used freezer for THE Nataree massage parlor US$30, not realizing that it scandal could implicate more contained the seller’s dead officials as the ongoing inves- mother. tigation uncovers incriminating The buyer had the freez- evidence of bribery. er for several weeks before Sources said on June 12 that opening it because the the entertainment venue staff seller told her to wait, as it must have been paying protec- was a ‘time capsule’ project tion fees to policemen or for Sunday School. When officials, because it employed the buyer finally peeked in- foreign masseuses who were side, she spotted the body working illegally. and called 911. “These masseuses carried a “It’s just unbelievable blue card with an emblem of a how she could just stick her lion on it. They said they paid mom in a freezer,” said the 1,000 baht a month to get such woman. a card for immunity against any Also unbelievable is that arrest or harassment by state of- someone would purchase a ficials,” the source said, adding used, $30 freezer without the masseuses had been told opening it first. they could show the card when 8 PHUKET GAZETTE June 18 - 24, 2016

Better safe than sorry REPORTS of structural damage at the Jungceylon shopping complex in Patong need to be taken seriously to protect shop- pers from potential danger, but calls to close down the entire complex indefinitely appear to be unduly alarmist given the situation on the ground – and beneath it. News that support pillars in the basement of the complex were damaged apparently came to light only after a concerned visitor noticed some of the damage and alerted authorities to it. Once apprised of the situation, Jungceylon management was correct in putting public safety first, quickly closing off the affected areas to shoppers and taking steps to shore up the structure’s support base with I-beams, while qualified engineers assessed the extent of the damage. As this edition went to print, Jungceylon management had yet to publicly reveal much about the engineers’ findings, except to specify the number of affected support beams at just four. We hope this turns out to be the case. Given the sprawling nature of the 200,000sqm complex and the lack of any high-rise structures thereupon, the man- agement appears to have been justified in limiting the closures to potential risk areas and reassuring the public that there was no need to panic. With the current monsoon season now well underway, and Hats off to Phuket Governor Chamroen with the inevitable associated downturn in tourist arrival fig- Re: Video Report: Surin re- crime or they will have little ures and trade, it might also be a good time for owners and opens for 70th anniversary of effect. Tourists lives are cheap operator of other large structures in the seaside town to in- HM King’s coronation, June 10 in their eyes. spect the structural integrity of their properties. This is a great man who has Mister Ree This should particularly be the case for the handful of high- done much for Thailand. Gazette forum rise structures in the town that were built before the current set Do you have an opinion to voice? There are very few men who Email [email protected] of sensible building ordinances were put in place in the 1990s. could walk in his shoes and re- It is difficult to explain the importance the Jungceylon ceive the respect of an entire Great work on zoo complex plays to Patong to those who do not remember what country. rules ignoring motorists on the an eyesore the area was back in the 1990s, when it was home raids by authorities We salute you. road, there will be chaos and to seedy karaoke bars, putrid drainage ditches, pump-on-a- Re: Police seize protected spe- Charlie traffic jams. barrel gas stations and even piles of illegally dumped garbage. cies from Hua Hin Zoo, June 9 Gazette forum Phuket Expat The opening of Jungceylon in late 2006 was a major turning Gazette forum Well done to the authorities point in the town’s difficult recovery from the 2004 tsunami on the zoo raids. and its presence has helped build Patong, increasing its eco- Billboards can eas- However, it is beyond com- nomic independence from the rest of the island and growing its Need to promote prehension how this zoo was appeal as a cosmopolitan beach resort destination – and not ily be switched off allowed to function if all of the just a place to indulge in sex tourism and other seedy pursuits. Re: Blinding light at intersec- better road safety animals were indeed ‘illegally As such, Jungceylon deserves a greater degree of public tion disgruntles locals, June 9 Re: Truck driver charged for acquired’. support and understanding than is indicated by the many The lit billboard at the crushing 79-year-old to death, Aren’t there any checks anonymous postings on social media. checkpoint in Tha Chat Chai June 10 when the facility opens for could be turned down at night Yes, we may blame the truck business, or any other regular too. driver, but it’s too late for the inspections along the way? My 10-year-old TV has the rider now. Hoping to hear that the zoo technology to automatically There is a better way, but it owner, and anyone else in- turn down its illumination in a requires us to move beyond this volved in this shameless act, darkened room, surely these current state of placing the faced maximum possible pen- high-tech billboards have the blame after the event. alties and jail time. [same] technology. Instead, we must look to Cynthia Rodericks Cindy avoid the event happening in Facebook Gazette forum the first place by promoting better road safety. No surprises, no accidents. Sea gypsies’ case Other car parks are Thai Safe Rider needs to be sorted Gazette forum always welcome Re: Sea gypsies break down Re: Island View: The perks of over letter ‘misunderstanding’, parking are ready to be reaped, Punishment needs June 10 June 14 Isn’t it about time the sea To my knowledge and if I am to be commensurate gypsies received what is their not wrong, in Phuket Town Re: Boat captains drug tested, due? around the Banking Center there face charges, June 9 If hundreds of years of DNA is a small multi-storey parking “These kinds of accidents evidence isn’t enough proof for behind Bank of Ayudhya inside rarely happen” – is he for real? them to become naturalized the old Phuket Shopping Center Just look at the number of land owners, then I don’t know and further away the Royal ‘accidents’ and deaths last year. what is. Phuket City Hotel. No wonder no one takes this All we can see is a whole lot Of course, other multi-storey seriously when those in charge of meetings without any con- Volume 23 Issue 25 car parks would be welcome. don’t realize or pretend not to clusions or ‘viable solutions’. However, as long as there know what is going on. Martin Edgar are egoistic reckless traffic Punishments need to fit the Facebook June 18 - 24, 2016 PHUKET GAZETTE 9 Publishing responsibly If it ain’t broke

Busaya Jaipiam, 56, is the Phuket Provincial Public Relations Chief. She is IN THE current era of 4G data, originally from Surat Thani, our entire lives revolve around and received a bachelor’s technology. Social media is degree in Mass Comm- now a normal and major part unications from Sukhothai of our daily lives. Thammathirat Open Univ- It’s hard to understand why a road built a few years ago is in need of I would like to pass on my repairs. Photo: gratisography.com concerns and urge all of my ersity. She also obtained a media friends, as well as those Master’s degree in Political I HAVE lived and worked in who are new to the profession, Science from the National Institute of Development Phuket for several years, even to realize that our role is to pass before the underpasses were By Chutharat Plerin along a correct understanding Administration (NIDA). built. for others, based on facts and ac- Here, she talks about the media’s – and all I’m sure we all agree that Do you have an opinion to voice? curate information. citizens’ – responsibilities when it comes to computer driving on the island is one of Email [email protected] Before you share any informa- the biggest challenges in our tion, please make sure that you publishing. daily lives. Making your way couldn’t even see a pothole have fact-checked it and verified home each day is a matter of anywhere. I am completely its details. Make sure that the in- you. In Phuket, the governor’s There are so many media luck and skillful maneuvering, lost as to what the authorities formation you choose to pass on office is also paying attention to companies on the island, both but I am not going to complain were thinking when they dug has come from reliable sources. those who may be considered to in Thai and international lan- about any of this. up an almost-new road for As Governor Chamroen be sharing false information on guages. To my knowledge, I know it’s impossible to pre- ‘repairs’. Tippayapongtada says, Phuket is social media. We can check for Phuket has many more media dict or control the behavior of Last month, I called some of not just another province of Thai- the sources of incorrect informa- companies than any other prov- others. People don’t drive to the local authorities to find out land; we are a strategic province, tion, and those who harm others’ ince. The media is very powerful please you and neither can you the reason for these repairs and as we present the image of the reputations by spreading false here, and people around the be a perfect driver all the time. was shocked to discover them country. About 12 million people information will not get away world know of Phuket. So, I’d Driver behavior is one thing, say that it was ten years old and from around the world know with it. like to urge the media to pub- but road blockages due to con- in need of repairs. Phuket and visit here every year. However, the government is lish information that benefits the struction are another thing Now I don’t know whether What happens in Phuket reflects not looking to arrest every single island and its public. completely. I sometimes use the my memory is playing tricks on on all of Thailand. person who posts or shares in- I am not saying that the me- road by the wall of Tah Rua me, but I find it very hard to Therefore, before you share correct information on a dia cannot publish any negative Temple to avoid the traffic at believe that this road was built or publish something that affects computer. We would like to call stories in Phuket. The media can the Bang Khu Underpass on my a decade ago. Phuket’s image, whether it be for publishers to make sure that always publish stories to make way to work. I have no idea what the real via social media or any other they’ve checked facts before Phuket a better place. Stories This road is, of course, much reason is for these repairs, or form of media, please check the publishing anything, especially that check in on the government longer than my usual route from how the annual budget works. facts first. You may check with information that could ruin and private sectors, for example, Thepkrasattri to work. None- However, as an ordinary tax- authorities in provincial depart- Phuket’s reputation. by publishing how government theless, it is serene and paying citizen, I’d like to state ments or directly with us at the It is not only registered me- departments are progressing on beautiful, lined with hundreds that if there is a budget surplus, Provincial Public Relations Of- dia companies or journalists public projects. of rubber trees on both sides, why not build a new road? Why fice. We can lead you to the right with credentials who can pub- I just want to see the media and hardly any traffic in sight. repair a road that doesn’t need people and experts, depending lish anymore. Everyone faces look forward to making our is- Alas, this pleasure was short to be repaired at all? I am a law- on the issue. these same responsibilities now land better, based on mutual lived. My favorite road has abiding citizen and I want to see Publishing incorrect infor- that the power of social media benefit for everyone, not as now been dug open for repairs. my tax money being put to rea- mation from a computer is a is in our palms. some personal revenge or only What baffles me completely, sonable use. serious crime, and can be used Phuket is a small island prov- for self-benefit. however, is why this road I have no idea how much it against you in court. ince with only three districts, but Phuket has given us a lot, needs to be repaired in the first costs to build a new road, but I The government is paying at- it has massive potential. We are therefore we must pay it back. place. From what I can recall, know anything would be bet- tention to information shared on a tourist destination that brings a We must take good care of the it was constructed a handful of ter than channeling our hard social media, and the Computer lot of income to Thailand. We island to make sure this Pearl years ago. Before it was dug earned money into repairing a Crimes Act may be used against make billions of baht a year. of the Andaman lasts forever. up, it looked smooth and I road that doesn’t even need it. Words from the Wise Are we allowed to go climbing at Khao Toe-Sae? “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it MY FRIENDS and I used to go Thank you for your query. that trail anymore and it’s pos- up to Khao Toe-Sae in Phuket No, we cannot advocate that sible for people to have is the courage to continue that counts.” Town. We spotted some rope anyone climb the hill via the accidents. – Winston Churchill between trees. rope trail. We do not maintain The rope used to be for vil- We wonder if we could lagers before we built the road, climb the hill by ourselves and as they had no way to get up are there any recommended the hill. “It is better to keep your mouth closed and safety measures? That’s all since changed, and let people think you are a fool than to open Ed Cooper we have a very convenient road New Zealand up the hill now. If tourists would it and remove all doubt.” like to go up, they may walk or – Mark Twain Nittipat Wanthanaprateep drive up the road. The hilltop is of the Phuket Provincial Ad- CCTV monitored and there’s a ministration Organization security guard up there to make (PPAO) replies: sure people stay safe. 10 PHUKET GAZETTE June 18 - 24, 2016 Runts rally amid mixed earnings season senting the China market was actually looking good, with a bottom in January/February followed by a rally that only AS OF the beginning of May, rolled back over again. A tech- earnings season is in full swing, nical chart for the iShares with the markets sending mixed MSCI Emerging Markets Index messages to investors. So far, ETF (NYSE-ARCA: EEM) some big names like Facebook also looks similar to that of Inc (NASDAQ: FB) and China. Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AM- Europe has been a basket ZN), with the latter sometimes case for years, but a few weeks being a difficult stock to own ago, a technical chart for the given its ups and downs, have SPDR STOXX Europe 50 ETF put in good earnings reports (NYSEARCA: FEU) was look- and have pretty decent techni- ing good with a solid base, cal charts. On the other hand, bottoming formation and a Netflix, Inc (NASDAQ: NF- breakout. Unfortunately, Europe LX) has a chart so choppy that is now retesting a support level, it’s not even close to being ready and is still not out of the woods to own, while Apple Inc yet – especially with the UK get- (NASDAQ: AAPL) is running ting ready to vote on Brexit. into mounting troubles in China. Finally, I should mention that Somewhat ironically, it’s when I start to lose one, two, or beaten-down sectors (gold, ma- three stocks (or even sector/mar- terials, silver, oil and commo- ket ETFs), it means it’s time to dities) and stocks (Exxon Mobil) pause and just watch the mar- that have been leading the latest ket, as it’s usually not a good Moving on to the global market, we need to see all of them start firing on all cylinders. Photo: WiNG two to three month rally, with sign for the overall market or a nimble risk-tolerant investors highs, as breaking above the good, only to get whacked support level. sector (from my past 20 years capturing some nice gains from 2,150 level is of primary impor- again. This makes me a little Over in biotech, the SPDR of experience) to see something bounces by sectors or stocks that tance for the index. The failure concerned about the technical S&P Biotech ETF (NYSE- suddenly start to get pummeled. have otherwise been in the gar- to take out that resistant level chart for the Market Vectors ARCA: XBI) did break out to a bage can. has the index remaining in a Semiconductor ETF (NYSE- new base rather than a new high Don Freeman, BSME is president However, the S&P 500 choppy range or potentially ARCA: SMH), as it’s been only to start falling off again to of Freeman Capital Management, moved back up above the 2,100 rolling back over to February showing lower highs and is below a potential support level. a registered investment advisor resistance level in mid April, lows, or even lower. now pulling back from a late Ideally, I want to see the chart with the US Securities Exchange only to begin retreating again Meanwhile, the technical April rally. breaking above that support Commission (SEC), based in over the past few weeks, as the chart for the tech-laden NAS- This also doesn’t bode well zone before I start jumping back Phuket. He has over 15 years technology sector still lacks DAQ market is more worri- for tech stocks, as semiconduc- into biotech stocks. experience working with expat- leadership stocks with biotech some, as it’s showing three tors are their ‘canary in the coal Moving on to the global riates, specializing in portfolio coming under pressure. This lower highs and two lower mine.’ A look at the technical market, we need to see all of management, US tax preparation, explains why the multi-year lows. This is not what you want chart for the Technology Select them start firing on all cylin- financial planning and UK pension range the S&P 500 has been to see in a healthy market. Sector SPDR ETF (NYSEA- ders, but we just aren’t seeing transfers. Call for a free portfolio stuck in continue to hold. There were also a couple of RCA: XLK) shows the index that yet. The iShares FTSE/ review. Don can be reached at That range is preventing the NASDAQ listed semiconduc- is in a tightly-bound range, and Xinhua China 25 Index ETF 089-970 5795 or email: freeman S&P 500 from hitting all-time tor stocks that were looking falling back down towards a (NYSE-ARCA: FXI) repre- [email protected] Positive forecasts abound Tips for establishing a start-up THE Center for Economic and ports, drought and low agricul- talking about their business and wrath of ‘The Man’ if some- Business Forecasting (CEBF) tural prices. The May consumer themselves. Ultimately, it’s up thing unfortunate happens. has found that consumer confi- confidence index was 72.6 but to you to find out what the nec- Lastly, get help. Stop being dence in May decreased for the consumer confidence in the fu- essary certifications are. These all high-and-mighty. Local gov- fifth consecutive month, and ture is expected to go up for the can vary based on your visa ernment agencies are all there was the lowest in eight months. first time in five months to 74.6. WHEN it comes to starting type, country of origin, propri- to help you get through this, CEBF Director Thanawat He said the center forecasts your own business, it’s easy to etary conditions and the whether you know about them Polvichai said on June 9 that Thai economic growth in 2016 get lost in the details. However, amount of money you are will- or not. They will give you ad- consumers were still concerned will be around 2.5-3.5 per cent. there are a few necessary steps ing to invest into your new vice on what is and isn’t about Thailand’s shrinking ex- – NNT you can’t let fall between the startup. allowed in the country, and not cracks. These are the last three As an employer, you’ll have just help you make profits. crucial steps. certain responsibilities. Firstly, Hopefully, they’ll help you fig- As a business owner (or pro- you need to hire employees, ure out the dos and don’ts of spective owner), you have to give them insurance and, obvi- getting your business off the obtain the appropriate licences ously, you need to pay your ground, and avoid unnecessary and permits. Different fields in taxes. Eventually, you’ll have headaches in the future. every country are different to pay them, and it’s your job when it comes to licensing re- as the head honcho to put the Zohaib Sikander is the Business quirements. But it’s your job to appropriate systems into place. Editor at the Phuket Gazette. figure out which one is specific Hiring agreements, tax returns, He has a degree in entre- to your business. To that end, medical and accidental insur- preneurship and operations enlist the help of the local busi- ance contracts all need to be management. Drop him a line, ask ness community and small laid out and followed on questions and/or suggest ideas for business agencies – people love through in order to avoid the articles at [email protected] June 18 - 24, 2016 PHUKET GAZETTE 11 Growing social forums Trade up B300bn

ONE of the biggest business benefits of social media is cre- ating a database of your perfect customers. Just imagine it: people asking to join your cus- Ministry sees 2016 potential up by 1.74 per cent. Photo: Allan Ajifo tomer list, at no cost to you. While most people know all THE Ministry of Commerce about Facebook fan pages, the sees potential for trade and in- ‘groups’ option remains a vestment between Thailand and lesser-known factor. People CLMV (Cambodia, Laos, have also probably heard of fo- Myanmar, Vietnam) countries. rums, but again they are used a It was revealed on June 10 lot less successfully by busi- that trade between Thailand nesses to target like-minded and CLMV during this year is people in their target market. Social media forums have changed the face of marketing strategies across the world. Photo: Allan O’Rourke 353.31 billion baht, up 1.74 per That’s probably because the and can see that there is new These platforms are very prof- ing revenue as well. As I have cent, as compared to the same businesses think forums are too content. This is a big advantage itable to set up and operate for mentioned many times, the period last year. hard to set up and maintain. But over the fan page, where about two reasons. First of all, you get money is in the database. Thai business operators can if done correctly, they can re- seven per cent of the people to brand yourself as an expert or Done correctly, they can be obtain investment information, turn massive results to who have liked the page actu- administrator that cares or is a gold mine. This doesn’t mean data and advisory services from marketeers, in terms of both ally see the content. To get knowledgeable about a given you should all rush out tomor- the ministry’s trade offices with traffic and income. Surpris- everyone who has previously topic, allowing you to become an row and set one up, but if you regards to CLMV. ingly, they are much easier to said they were interested in authority figure and influencer – plan it properly and match it The ministry plans to set up a set up and maintain than you your content, you need to boost which is very powerful in mar- correctly to your social media trade and investment-promotion think. your posts, which soon be- keting, as you build trust and imprint, it can be a great addi- network, leading Thai busi- A group, as opposed to a fan comes expensive. rapport with your audience. tion to your social media nesses to explore opportunities. page, allows for notifications to A forum is another format The second is that you can arsenal. According to Commerce Minis- be sent to every member of the where someone sets up a plat- control traffic flow, and traffic ter Apiradi Tantraporn, Vietnam group. Without going into too form around a theme or subject, translates into money. Many Simon Wetherell is a social accounts for most of the trade much detail here, a group can and then members can view people do not realize that by media expert, trainer and lawyer. with Thailand, followed by be set up on any given topic or and comment. A very well- generating lots of traffic, not He now resides in Phuket where Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia. cause, and like-minded people known example in Thailand is only do people create more he trains businesses and Under the Asean economic can join. The groups can be pri- ThaiVisa. Readers can look at sales, but they are building da- individuals on how to profit from community, Thailand’s geo- vate or public, but the and post content, and then tabases. At the same time, they the Social Media industry. For graphical position could serve as advantage is that everyone in make their own comments, all are normally creating multiple more information, go to http:// a gateway for trade between the group is sent ‘push’ mes- of which gives valuable infor- income streams, often getting PhuketOnlineMarketing.com or Asean and CLMV countries. sages when content is posted mation to the marketeer. per-click income and advertis- call him on 095-085 3355. – The Nation Spending boosts economy FOR the first eight months of prises and 30.13bn baht in off- Looking for a place to stay? fiscal year 2016, collections of budget funds. revenue from state agencies The department expects tax and contributions from state- revenue last month will exceed See more classified ads at owned enterprises via the that of May last year, thanks to Government Financial Man- the slight improvement in the www.phuketgazette.net agement Information System economy. totaled 2.69 trillion baht as of State agencies expedited May 3. their spending to help boost the Overall government spend- economy in line with the ing from October to May was government’s economic stimu- 1.79tn baht of the 2.72tn baht lus measures. budget, Manas Jamveha, direc- Mr Manas said the stimulus tor-general of the Comptroller- measures were raising the stan- General’s Department, said on dard of living in sub-districts June 8. and at the village level, invest- The largest proportion of the ing in small stimulus schemes revenue came from value- nationwide and upgrading vil- added tax at 50.81 billion baht; lages’ potential to help expand followed by corporate income the economy. tax at 30.44bn baht or 10.40 per The higher tax revenue via cent; personal income tax at the information system and 24.67bn baht or 8.43 per cent; state spending over the same and tax on oil and oil products period last year, helped stimu- at 12.99bn baht or 4.44 per late the economy in line with cent. the government’s objective to Other non-tax revenue com- ensure sustainable economic prised 12.99bn baht in growth and stability, he said. contributions from state enter- – The Nation 12 PHUKET GAZETTE June 18 - 24, 2016 Patong still offers Thai Olympic road cyclist trains hard at Thanyapura Thai national team cyclist Jutatip Maneephan, visited Thanyapura last week for stunning sunsets some last-minute training before joining her team-mates at the Rio Olympics.

Loyal guests of the KEE Resort & Spa, Patong, who stayed a week or more were treated to a cocktail reception party with free-flow snacks and sundowners on June 8 at the resort’s rooftop open-air KEE Sky Lounge & Restaurant. The rain held off and guests were also treated to a stunning sunset.

KEE Resort guests enjoy sundowners with a spectacular sunset over Patong Bay. Thai Olympic cyclist, Jutatip Maneephan was in Phuket to train at Thanyapura. GUNDAM FESTA 2016 @JUNGCEYLON Jungceylon Shopping Center in Patong hosted the “GUNDAM FESTA 2016 IN THAILAND” June 9-13. The first ever Gundam festival in the southern region was a hit with kids, who got to stare up at imposing life-size models of the popular Japanese cartoon and range of toys.

Jungceylon General Manager Paul Rochel and Phuket Japanese Association President Fumio Nishioka on the opemomg day of the Gundam Festa. Life-sized Gundam models on display at Jungceylon. June 18 - 24, 2016 PHUKET GAZETTE 13

Tree planting for the King Amari Phuket welcomes Local government, community leaders, students and the private sector came together in Kathu on June 8 to plant 300 trees in honor of His Majesty the King. E! Entertainment celeb Amari Phuket staff gave a warm welcome to Sabrina Chakici, E! Entertainment’s host in the UK and Ireland, and professional photographer Aimee Le Tourneau upon their arrival at the resort for a holiday on June 7.

(From L to R) Tipaporn Koonphol, Amari Phuket’s Deputy General Manager; professional photographer Aimee Le Tourneau, E! Entertainment host Sabrina Chakici; and Penprapa Kathu Mayor Chai-Anan Suthikul helps plant trees in honor of His Majesty. Chooklin, Amari Phuket’s Associate Director of Marketing Communications. 14 PHUKET GAZETTE June 18 - 24, 2016 Tsunami survivor’s story hits the stage

By Sahar Aftab Paliwala

THE Regent’s Park Open Air Theater in London staged its largest-ever performance this month, inspired by a true story of resilience, courage and man’s relationship with nature. The play is set during the In- dian Ocean tsunami that struck Phuket, and devastated large areas in Southeast Asia more than a decade ago. A cast of more than 50 ex- ceptional young performers came together in Samuel Anderson’s adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s 2009 novel ‘Running Wild’. The novel is inspired by the story of an eight-year-old Brit- ish schoolgirl named Amber Owen, who was visiting Phuket with her mother and stepfather when the tsunami hit A scene in Regent’s Park Open Air Theater’s adaptation of Running Wild, which was inspired by the bond between a girl on holiday in Phuket and a baby elephant, which saved her life when the 2004 tsunami struck. Photo: Johan Persson the island in 2004. Ms Owen was riding on the that the animal became alert “People were going into the Ms Owen told The Telegraph. on which performance you back of a baby elephant and alarmed before the ruth- sea to pick up fish, but the el- “I didn’t know what a tsunami watch) meets on her adven- named ‘Ning Nong’. She said less waves came crashing in. ephant kept trying to get away,” was, but he could clearly sense tures. there was danger.” Following the success of his Ning Nong then ran toward novel, Mr Morpurgo was first high ground – with Ms Owen approached by Chichester Fes- on its back – until the waves tival for permission to adapt subsided, protecting her from his novel for stage. After a suc- being carried off to sea. cessful run there, the Regent’s “As the water came in, I was Park Open Air Theater staged safely on his back. He saved my a production in London this life,” Ms Owen added. month. Ms Owen was safely re- Mr Morpurgo’s other works united with her mother, who include the 1982 novel War reportedly pledged to donate Horse which also focuses on money to Ning Nong’s upkeep the bond between a young boy every year, as a show of grati- and a horse during the war torn tude for saving her daughter’s backdrop of World War I. He life. has also written dozens of other Earlier this month, Ning plays, novels and poems for Nong was found at an elephant children. camp in Kanchanaburi, after Ms Owen, who is now 20 being sold to a new owner af- years old, lives and works in ter the tsunami, reportedly Milton Keynes. She was because her old owner found aware that a children’s book her too expensive to maintain. had been inspired by her ad- She now has a new name – Bai ventures in Phuket, but had Tong – but is still the same never met Mr Morpurgo. The gentle and friendly creature she author had never contacted the was before, and still a favorite young girl either – he had with locals and visitors to the merely read about her island camp. adventures in a newspaper Mr Morpurgo, a Children’s clipping, and decided to base Laureate and best-selling au- his novel on the incident. thor, based his novel in In fact, there was never any Indonesia, where a young boy contact or personal interac- named Will is on holiday with tion between the two, until his family, and whose life is The Telegraph interviewed Ms saved in a similar fashion by an Owen. Mr Morpurgo subse- elephant named Oona. quently invited Ms Owen and The protagonist of the play her family to watch the alternates between Lilly adapted performance of his (played by Ava Potter), and novel at Regent’s Park. Joshua Fernandes and Tyler The performance moved au- Osborne (who share the role of diences to tears, with both Will). A team of skilled pup- adults and children mesmerized peteers maneuver the prop by this tale of courage, survival elephant and other animals and indomitable spirit in the that Lilly (or Will, depending face of adversity. June 18 - 24, 2016 PHUKET GAZETTE 15 A brief history of Thong Dee offered his troops to Taksin’s service. But there were a few nobles of Rayong who did not agree with the governor’s decision to PICKING up from where I left assist Taksin. They believed that off in part one of the history of if the governor of Rayong helped Thong Dee, in 1765, the Bur- Taksin, the Burmese would not mese invaded Siam with the spare their city. Eventually they aim of crushing Ayutthaya. would follow Taksin eastwards King Ekkathat tried desperately and crush his rebellion and all the to defend his country from the cities that assisted him would be invaders. razed to the ground. When Ayutthaya came under The nobles gathered and siege, the king sent word to plotted to get rid of the general. Phraya Taksin for assistance. But once again, news of their Taksin assessed the situation plot reached Taksin. That night, and believed that his efforts a sizeable army led by a few of would prove futile. The general the conspirators surrounded Taksin’s camp. They shouted led five hundred of his best Monument of Phraya Pichai, in front of Uttaradit City Hall. Photo: Notty fighting men and their com- and made loud noises to intimi- manders, including Luang army set up camp near a village Taksin continued to move the plains. Again Taksin and his date Taksin’s men. Pichai Asa out of the city and called Ban Phran Nok on the east, away from the Burmese cavalry pretended to rout. The Taksin, anticipating an at- made sure they were not de- western banks of the Chao stronghold. He knew that his Burmese chased them with re- tack, ordered his men to stand tected by the enemy. Phraya River. While in search forces were still not strong newed impetus. Taksin led them down. Seeing the camp dead By this time Luang Pichai Asa for food, a company of Siamese enough to attack the Burmese straight into his trap. Once they quiet, the nobles ordered their had become known for his char- soldiers came across more Bur- and win. He needed more men were in range of the hidden gun- men to attack. The men charged acteristic fighting style, holding mese troops who were searching and the only way was to get help men, the muskets fired. Round at the camp. But when they were a pair of swords, one in each for them. The Siamese managed from the Siamese governors of after round, the Burmese army just a few yards away, Taksin’s hand. His company consisted to retreat back to their camp, but the eastern towns, which had was cut down. The Burmese re- musketeers began to fire. The mostly of Chinese fighters. the Burmese followed. escaped the Burmese onslaught serves, unable to communicate first line of attackers fell in- When they managed to break out Taksin organized his men to during the invasion of 1766. with the rest of the army, stantly. Luang Pichai then of the Burmese siege, Taksin’s defend the camp. He sent his But when Taksin’s army marched in as well and were in- emerged from the camp at the small but loyal band of fighting trusted cavalry commanders out reached Nakhon Nayok, he discriminately gunned down by head of fifteen men and charged men began to travel east. to lure the Burmese army into an once again received distressing Taksin’s musketeers. By the end into the confused ranks. When the Burmese realized ambush. The Burmese attacked news. An army of Burmese of the day, hundreds of Burmese The army broke and routed. that they had let Taksin and his the Siamese cavalry. The cavalry fighters was closing in on him soldiers lay dead on the battle- Luang Pichai managed to cap- men escape, they sent an army pretended to retreat as planned. fast. He had no time to set up field. General Taksin was once ture the conspirators, cut off their in pursuit. The two forces The Burmese, confident that it his defenses so Taksin decided again victorious. heads and throw them at Taksin’s clashed at Pho Sao Harn, which was their day, followed and were to use the geography of the area Since that battle, the Bur- feet that same night. Taksin was would be one of the first times caught in Taksin’s ambush. They to his advantage. He placed his mese did not send anymore of very impressed by Luang that the Burmese would learn were surrounded and slaughtered musketeers in the tall grass their men in pursuit of Taksin. Pichai’s bravery and compared of the general’s ferocity. mercilessly. where they would be hidden The general continued to march him to the likes of Phraya Siharat Taksin’s forces smashed the Taksin’s early victories from the enemy. General Taksin, east, passing Chachoensao, Decho, a legendary general in pursuing Burmese forces, rout- against the Burmese gave the Luang Pichai and a handful of Banglamung, eventually reach- service of King Narai during the ing them completely and Siamese people renewed hope. his trusted cavalry then rode out ing Rayong. The governor of Ayutthaya period. That night, the seizing many of their weapons. Fighting men from nearby vil- to meet the Burmese army. Rayong, upon seeing Taksin, town of Rayong was undoubt- After the battle, Taksin’s lages began to flock to his camp. They clashed once again on welcomed him into the city. He edly his for the taking. Youngsters compete in Futsal Junior Cup

Sarot Ungkanapilas of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization (center) chaired the closing ceremony of the Futsal Junior Cup 2016 on June 11. The under-12 competition saw 14 schools, and the under-14 competition saw 16 teams participating. Top three schools and best players from each category were awarded cash prizes and trophies. Photo: PPAO 16 PHUKET GAZETTE June 18 - 24, 2016 When in Phuket, do as Brisbane does newspapers, after locking the bike into a nearby docking sta- tion. Then, take another bike through the botanical gardens, over to the Museum of Contem- QUEENSLAND’s capital city porary Art (also on the river). of Brisbane has a population of Again dock the bike and spend 2.3 million people, some four a couple of hours browsing the times the official figure for Brett Whitleys and Sidney Phuket. Yet driving around Nolans prior to lunch in the Brisbane, as I did recently, you museum’s outdoor restaurant. could be forgiven for thinking Take yet another bike across you were in a quiet country the river on a cycle/footbridge town. The traffic flows effi- to the free outdoor swimming ciently and there’s rarely any pool on the riverbank. Dock the bottlenecks, or congestion, with bike and swim, then doze in the which to contend. Certainly sun for an hour. Take another Brisbane has a modern and ef- bike back for a final ride along ficiently-planned system of su- the river to the little park by per-highways, dual carriage- your hotel, lock up the bike and ways, roads and bridges over sit by the river enjoying a well- the Brisbane River, upon which Brisbane has 150 separate locations where City Cycle bikes are available on a 24/7 basis. Photo: Baz Daniel deserved sun-downer while the city stands. watching the evening commut- To complement these, this The beguiling waterside en- could learn a great deal from which releases a bike plus hel- ers scurry home across the forward-looking modern city vironment alongside the the model that Brisbane has es- met for you and away you go. Story Bridge. also boasts superb cycle path- Brisbane River weaves right tablished. Amazingly, if you use your bike I cycled for a total of almost ways, largely separated from through the heart of the city, so Brisbane has 150 separate in less than 30-minute intervals three hours, covering maybe the vehicular roads and traffic that commuters and tourists locations where City Cycle throughout the day, you don’t 30 kilometers, and I was out and in addition a new City Cy- alike can get to shops, offices, bikes are available on a 24/7 have to pay any more than that. all day. All for the princely cling facility. cafes, botanical gardens, muse- basis. These dovetail closely If you become a regular user, you sum of 60 baht. Brisbane’s cycling initiative ums and art galleries quickly with mainstream transporta- can buy the annual subscription Now, imagine what a won- (www.citycycle.com.au) is de- safely and conveniently by bike. tion infrastructure, such as – giving you the flexibility of derful attraction it would be for signed both for recreational and Does that remind you of bus, rail and ferry stations. City Cycle any day of the year – tourists if Phuket could offer work-related biking. Of course anywhere else where such an Plus there are plenty of subur- which works out at 1,800 baht a such a bike scheme with atten- the key to any successful cy- initiative might work? ban and downtown car parks year or about five baht per day. dant cycle-ways. And imagine cling initiative is not just the Exactly. Phuket has every encouraging you to leave your So, when visiting Brisbane, how much Phuket’s notorious convenient availability of rental opportunity to capitalize on its vehicle and go by bike. you can do what I did. traffic congestion, mayhem, bikes at reasonable cost, but island topography and large You can sign up online for a Take a bike from near your death, injuries, and pollution also the availability of excellent tourist base to develop a finan- day for as little as 60 baht. You hotel and ride a river pathway could be reduced by such a and safe riding tracks and it is cially-successful community get a code to enter into the com- into town to a riverside coffee scheme. Food for thought here that Brisbane excels. bicycle rental program, and puter at the bike docking stations shop for breakfast and the indeed. New PTT campaign encourages TAT campaign aimed Thais to sort out their garbage at female travellers GAS stations in Phuket could THE Tourism Authority of soon be displaying colorful Thailand (TAT) is launching a trash bins as part of a nation- special campaign in August to wide campaign by PTT to urge attract local and international consumers to sort their waste female travellers to the coun- and dispose of it in the appro- try with a wide range of activi- priate bins. ties, special offers, discounts Dubbed 'Yak Lak Yim’, the and privileges on offer. trash-sorting drive is aimed at “We’ve designated August improving better waste-disposal 2016 as a ‘month for women habits in exchange for funding travellers’, in honor of Her Hotels and airlines are partnering with TAT. Photo: Kata Group to assist local communities. Majesty Queen Sirikit’s 84th Sarun Rungkasiri, Chief birthday,” said TAT Governor hotels, resorts, spas and tour Operating Officer of the Petro- Yuthasak Supasorn. operators to arrange activities leum Authority of Thailand’s “Research has shown that and offer special discounts (PTT’s) downstream petro- The sorting of waste is becoming increasingly important the world women enjoy visiting the and privileges.” over but while it is common and indeed mandatory in several European leum business group, said the countries, Asia has been slow in catching on. Photo: www.yaklakyim.com beach, benefiting from TAT has come up with five aim was to raise consumer Thailand’s amazing spa op- promotional concepts: Beautiful awareness about environmental reduction by managing collec- that will generate revenue from portunities and trying Thai Look, Beautiful Shape, Beauti- issues and make waste separa- tion of waste for recycling and recycling for nearby communi- food, but they are more con- ful Mind, Beautiful Retreat, and tion a habit. The waste sorting using the funds raised for com- ties. Most importantly, this cerned with safety and Beautiful Experience bins will be placed at more than munity activities,” said Mr campaign implicates the syn- privacy than male travellers,” Other special arrangements 1,400 PTT gas stations nation- Sarun. ergy of all consumers in said Juthaporn Rerngronasa, will be provided to female trav- wide. “PTT dealers all over the bringing a big smile to society TAT deputy governor for Inter- ellers, including special “This campaign is a tangible country are collaborating by by just correctly sorting trash national Marketing. immigration lanes, parking demonstration of our commit- setting aside a site for garbage for recycling.” “With this in mind, TAT is spots and airfare discounts. ment to environmental impact containers and waste disposal – The Nation joining forces with airlines, – Phuket Gazette June 18 - 24, 2016 PHUKET GAZETTE 17 Stay on track The stress connection to belly fat with diet apps

THE hormone cortisol is con- sidered the ‘stress’ hormone be- cause it plays a major role in the function of our body dur- ing times of stress. Cortisol is secreted by the adrenal glands. You have probably heard of the term ‘adrenal fatigue’, other- wise known as ‘burnout’, and may have suffered from this MyFitnessPal is a free app for common 21st-century condi- iPhones and Android devices. tion. Photo: Gazette File Well, this hormone appears HERE are a few free apps for to play a role in our belly fat, iPhone and Android devices to along with insulin; the hormone help stay on track with diets and that helps control our blood fitness regimes. sugar levels by moving it from Cortisol activates a hormone called lipoprotein lipase, which stimulates fat storage. Photo: Pixabay MyFitnessPal is a flexible the blood and into cells. and fun diet app that allows you So why are insulin and cor- tisol; essentially, stress. diet of processed food, sugars The sad fact is that when we to add your personal stats, such tisol such a bad combination Stress is a disruption in the and bad fats. Promote healing are stressed, we often do the as height, age, sex and weight, when it comes to belly fat? balance or equilibrium of the through a clean diet of whole opposite to what we should be as well as your target weight. Cortisol activates a hormone body and can result in inflam- foods. doing for a healthy and lean Add your details and the app called lipoprotein lipase, which mation (in flames – think fire). Now, that’s half way to get- body. Try healthy stress-busting works out how many calories stimulates fat storage, but it Cortisol (cortisone) is then ting cortisol under control but alternatives such as yoga (no you should be consuming each also activates a hormone called pumped out to extinguish the let’s look at how we usually shortage on the island), or medi- day in order to hit your target hormone sensitive lipase, fire. deal with stress and how that tation. Try the app ‘headspace’ weight in your specific time which breaks down fat. As well as emotional and can be improved. if you are new to meditation. frame. Unfortunately, insulin turns psychological tension being an Common stress-busting tech- Simply getting out and walk- 7 Minute Workout is for off the effect of cortisol on hor- obvious cause of stress, other niques are: using alcohol and/or ing more is a great stress buster. Android devices. The app mone sensitive lipase, causes can include: poor di- drugs; excessive exercise, which Aim for 10,000 steps per day. serves up illustrated examples preventing the breakdown of etary choices resulting in can lead to injuries and elevate It’s important to find activi- of short but intense workouts fat. So this leaves insulin and vitamin and mineral imbal- cortisol levels; junk food; mind- ties that you enjoy and feel that are sure to make you break cortisol promoting fat storage, ances; malnourishment; food numbing TV and entertainment; comfortable with incorporating a sweat. There are 12 workouts primarily in the belly region. intolerance and build up of tox- working more with a focus on into your life as a preventative to choose from. The only One hormone out is not good ins; tissue stress from achievement; separation from measure, not as a last resort equipment you will need is a but both together is a nightmare pathogenic bugs such as can- loved ones; and in extreme cases, when times are tough, because chair and a wall. for losing fat. dida; bacteria; parasites; resorting to violence. by then, it’s often too late. Google Fit is an Android By following sound nutri- viruses; environmental toxins; In reality though, all these app with a simple but effective tional principles – reducing and not enough sleep. methods just result in more Craig Burton is a Certified Sports interface that lets you track your intake of processed food, All of these things can in- stress so more cortisol is pro- Nutritionist (CISSN) with a your daily steps and your work- sugar, empty carbs (bread and crease inflammation, and duced. That’s why a bad state Bachelor of Science degree outs, calculating distance pasta) – you will begin to bal- ultimately cortisol. of mind is so destructive to (Sports Science) and a National covered, calories burned, and ance insulin. The key is to also reduce in- health and, yes, to body fat lev- Academy of Sports Medicine elevation. This leaves dealing with cor- flammation caused by a poor els as well. (PES) certification. – Nick Davies Stop sugar cravings with a celery cocktail CELERY is an excellent supplement to help quash sugar cravings when on a diet, while providing essential electrolytes and alkalizing minerals. You can get a lot of juice out of just a few stalks of celery but, on its own, celery juice can be a real struggle to drink in any great quantity, so it’s best to blend the juice with sweet fruits such as pineapples or green apples. The celery also helps balance out the sourness of green apples, and it goes well with carrot juice, too. juicer: Add a dash of cinnamon to 2 apples help regulate blood sugar. 8 stalks of celery Method: Throw these into a 1 pinch cinnamon 18 PHUKET GAZETTE June 18 - 24, 2016 Rosewood to expand in Asia Property drivers for high season agents and websites, may early 2017 achieve a slightly better return of five per cent and above. An- other set of holiday home buyers are owners who pur- WHO will be the market driv- chase a holiday home just for ers for property this coming their own or family’s use and high season in Phuket? may use the property just two Phuket has always been a to three months throughout the hotpot mix of nationalities, year. Rosewood Phuket guests will feel ‘at one with the land and sea’. whether it be the long-term resi- The traditional holiday Photo: Rosewood website dents, holiday home buyers or home buyers from Europe are tourists. still some of the biggest buyers ROSEWOOD Hotels & Resorts Long-term residents in on the island, but a stumbling have revealed an expansion Phuket basically fall into two block has been the currency plan for the first quarter of 2017. broad segments. The first seg- exchange where the strong Located on the 600-meter ment tends to be families from Thai baht against the weak Emerald Bay beachfront in the surrounding Asian regions, Euro is postponing or delaying southwest Phuket, the resort will such as Malaysia, Singapore, sales. The US dollar is expected include 71 villas and 32 resi- Hong Kong or Dubai, who are to strengthen this summer and dences. Public and private areas looking for a change of envi- this will hopefully bring a fresh Retiring couples from Europe prefer to live in countries with warm will be separated. ronment, reducing the family’s climates, hence choosing Thailand. Photo: TaxRebate.org.uk round of investors to the prop- Phuket-based lead architect overhead costs or seeking a bet- erty market. PMC, together with Melbourne- ter quality of life. This segment pretty quickly before the start a return on investment (ROI) in It’s very easy to spot who are based consultant BAR Studio are also includes families from of each school term. the future. Some properties in the latest tourists in Phuket, just handling interiors for the villas Russia, though the numbers of The second segment consists Phuket also offer investors a walk into any restaurant or shop and restaurants, which will in- families have declined over the of couples who had previously fixed guaranteed ROI over a in Patong; whatever language corporate sustainable practices last year or so due to the de- lived in Asia due to work com- certain period, or a shared the menu or the posters on the and indigenous materials, includ- cline of the Russian ruble. mitments for years and have profit split after management wall are written in will give you ing an abundance of stone and This segment would be look- decided to retire and live in costs and other overheads. This the answer. At the moment it’s timber. ing for properties closer to the Phuket. This segment also in- works out pretty well for inves- all up in the air as to who will The villas at the hotel are international schools and cludes retiring couples from tors who are looking for a be the market drivers for the planned to be 120 square should they have previously Europe who prefer to live in a hassle free property investment coming high season – place meters, while the residences are been living in a condominium, warm country rather than en- with net returns ranging from your bets. measured at 1,500 sqm. Recre- they would opt for a property dure the cold winters back three to six per cent. ational facilities will include with a garden and one that of- home. Investors who manage their Amy Koh is the sales manager of beachside organic-form pools, fers more space. Properties Some of the holiday home properties and seek returns by Engel & Voelkers Phuket. To lap pools, a gymnasium, a yoga within a 30-minute drive radius buyers are savvy investors renting their property out, contact Amy or for more inform- pavilion and children’s club. from the popular international looking for ‘good bargains’ in whether on their own or ation, visit www.engelvoelkers. – Phuket Gazette schools are usually snapped up a market where they hope to see through Airbnb, real estate com/en/phuket Increasingly aggressive campaigns to sell property

LISTED residential developers zero-interest deal for the first “There will, however, be have launched aggressive mar- year, with a monthly installment more of an impact on small and keting campaigns to boost sales of 3,000 baht per 1-million-baht medium-sized property firms in the current quarter, having loan for the first year. than on the market leaders, as witnessed only slight growth in AP (Thailand) is offering a the smaller companies have demand following the expiry at special fixed interest rate of 3.5 less cash to compete with the the end of April of the govern- per cent for the first five years same sort of marketing cam- ment measure to reduce trans- of a mortgage at the project. paigns, which offer discounted fer and mortgage fees. Sansiri, in collaboration with prices and fee exemptions for For example, LPN Develop- Bangkok Bank, has the ‘555 customers,” he explained. ment has a marketing campaign Like’ campaign, under which Thai Condominium Asso- for customers interested in buy- home-buyers pay monthly in- ciation and premium products ing a unit at its condominium stallments of 555 baht for the at Pruksa Real Estate president Prasert Taedullayasatit reiter- project, for those who can not first year of a mortgage. Campaigns are becoming more and more aggressive. Photo: Mark Moz get bank approval for a mort- Another listed developer, ated the view among devel- gage. Ananda Development, has a LPN Development manag- home-buyers had taken the opers that the raft of special The developer is giving promotion under which buyers ing director Opas Sripayak plunge and committed them- marketing campaigns had been home-buyers the opportunity to benefit from free transfer and explained that this is also a way selves to buying before the launched to reduce their inven- rent a condominium for the first mortgage fees – akin to the to reduce the company’s stock, deadline. tory and boost second-quarter year, with the amount paid then government’s measure that ex- where 5,000 of the 7,500 Land & Houses’ chief ex- sales following the drop-off in going towards a down payment pired on April 30. units are still available. AP ecutive officer, Anant Asawa- demand. on the property when applying The various campaigns, all (Thailand)’s chief of business bhokhin, said residential devel- As per a Real Estate Infor- for a mortgage. of which expire at the end of unit & strategic marketing, opers could experience a drop mation Center (REIC) survey Pruksa Real Estate has this month, are part of the lead- Vittakarn Chandavimol, said in net earnings this quarter as a by the Government Housing launched a ‘Free to stay in the ing developers’ efforts to boost residential demand in the cur- result of the campaigns. They Bank, residential inventory in first year’ promotion for its their second-quarter sales fol- rent quarter had slowed after felt it necessary to introduce Bangkok totaled 138,400 units Pruksa projects. lowing the end of the the government’s ‘Thai Condo- these to boost sales following – worth 527.95bn baht as of Property Perfect teamed with government’s stimulus package minium Association’ fees the end of the government’s the end of April. commercial banks to offer a for the property sector. measure expired, as most stimulus package. – The Nation June 18 - 24, 2016 PHUKET GAZETTE 19 New Hyatt Place opens doors for Cabinet business and leisure in Patong approves HYATT and Boutique Corpo- tax levy ration Ltd. announced the opening of Hyatt Place Phuket, Patong on Phuket island, Thai- land. “Thailand is an important market for Hyatt, and Phuket is one of Southeast Asia’s premier tourist destinations where de- The bill was approved on June 7. mand from both leisure and Photo: Brian Turner business visitors continues to grow,” said David Udell, group TIM Leelahaphan, economist at president Asia Pacific, Hyatt Maybank Kim Eng Securities, Hotels Corporation. “Hyatt said that low personal income tax Place Phuket, Patong is the sec- could offset high burden from the ond Hyatt-branded hotel in new land and buildings tax. Phuket, and we believe the On June 7, the Cabinet ap- hotel will exceed guest expec- proved the bill which seeks to tations and provide them with levy taxes on plots nationwide. everything they need while vis- Homes valued below 50 mil- iting this beautiful island in the lion baht will be waived from tax Andaman Sea.” while the maximum 0.5 per cent The 161-room beachside rate is applied for second homes. hotel marks the first Hyatt About 90 per cent of home-own- Place hotel in Southeast Asia, The Hyatt Place Phuket, Patong is Boutique Corporation’s first hotel on the island, an important milestone ers will remain unaffected. This featuring an additional 10 spe- in the company’s real estate portfolio in Thailand. Photo: Hyatt will cost the payers about 1,000 cialty guestrooms offering entertainment options nearby Hyatt Bangkok, which is ex- land,” said Prab Thakral, presi- baht for every 1mn baht above ocean views. A 400 square foot and activities like golf, diving pected to open in late 2016, dent and group chief executive the 50mn baht threshold. The space has been allotted for cor- and other water sports. Hyatt Regency Bangkok, officer of Boutique Corpora- maximum 0.2 per cent rate will porate meetings as well. Hyatt Hyatt Place Phuket, Patong Sukhumvit and Hyatt Place tion Ltd. “We plan to expand be levied on agricultural land and Place Phuket, Patong is strate- joins three Hyatt-branded ho- Bangkok, Sukhumvit. and add more hotel develop- 2 per cent on commercial and in- gically located in the heart of tels currently open in Thailand, “We are delighted to offi- ments to the company’s dustrial land. Phuket – overlooking Patong including Grand Hyatt Erawan cially open Hyatt Place Phuket, portfolio on the island. We are The 5 per cent rate will be ap- Beach. The seafront is a short Bangkok, Hyatt Regency Hua Patong, which marks the Bou- confident that Hyatt Place plied to undeveloped land in the walk from the hotel and has Hin and Hyatt Regency Phuket tique Corporation’s first hotel Phuket, Patong will gain loyal first three years and the rate will panoramic views across the Resort. Additionally, there are in Phuket and an important travelers through its services, be doubled if it remains undevel- bay. The hotel will additionally three hotels under development milestone in our company’s food and beverage offerings.” oped in the following three years. provide its guests numerous in Thailand, including Park real estate portfolio in Thai- – Phuket Gazette – The Nation Central plans Europe push CENTRAL GROUP has set stake in Big C Vietnam in April After the takeover of a ma- aside an investment budget of this year from France’s Casino jority stake in Big C Vietnam, 12 billion baht to renovate and Group for 36.6bn baht. the Central group recorded to- build new outlets in Europe un- “The Big C takeover got us tal sales revenue of 40bn baht til 2020, aimed at doubling rev- not only the Big C hyper-mar- in Vietnam. The group expects enue from the continent, said kets, which comprise 33 revenue in Vietnam to show Tos Chirathivat, chief execu- branches in Vietnam, but 10 double-digit growth annually. tive officer of the group. convenience stores and 30 Mr Tos said the reason it Currently, the group’s total shopping malls owned by Big sold its 25 per cent stake in sales revenue in Europe stands C Vietnam’s subsidiaries. The Thailand-based Big C at 40bn baht. It is expected to challenge for us is to concen- Supercenter Plc to the TCC achieve 100bn baht by 2020. trate on the retail business in Group was because of its suc- An investment of 10bn baht Vietnam at this time,” Mr Tos cess in taking over Big C will be spent on renovating its said. Vietnam. Also, the stake in Big existing branches in Europe. The company also plans C Supercenter Plc was not Another 2bn baht would be changing the name of Big C in enough for the company to spent opening a new branch of Vietnam next year, he added. manage the business. La Rianscente in Italy, he “Although we can use the “In Thailand, we will focus added. Big C brand for 10 years after on the premium food market Mr Tos said the group is fo- the takeover, we have decided under the Tops brand, as we also cused on Europe and Asean for to change the name next year have more business categories overseas investment, as the instead of waiting,” he said. in Thailand. This is enough for company sees potential to ex- Central Group has expanded our business expansion in pand its business in both its business in Vietnam by Thailand's retail market al- regions. In Asean, the company establishing Central Group though we sold our stake in Big is focusing on Vietnam after its Vietnam in 2011 with its busi- C Supercenter Plc,” he said. success in acquiring a major ness partner Nguyen Kim. – The Nation 20 PHUKET GAZETTE June 18 - 24, 2016 PROPERTY FOR SALE

POOL VILLA - KAMALA PATONG TOWER / MAI KHAO LAND Fully furnished, 3 bedrooms, 3 2-STOREY LAND NEAR ANDAMAN BEACH SUITES bathrooms. Sale: 12 million SINGLE HOUSE BIG BUDDHA CONDO baht. Tel: 087-131 4947. FOR SALE Tel: 080-692 6114 . Email: patong [email protected] CONDO FOR SALE Rawai. 50sqm, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living room, swim- CHALONG ming pool, car park, 24hr secu- BEACHFRONT rity. 4.5 million baht only. Contact POOL VILLA Beachfront land in Mai Game. Tel: 076-288988, 093-749 Khao. East coast. 3 rai-2 2277 (English & Thai). Email: [email protected] Burasiri Village. Koh Kaew. Over 3 rai. 6.5 million baht ngan-24sqw. For sale: 45 per rai. Or smaller plots from million baht. Tel: 081-867 Next to BIS. 3 bedrooms (master bedroom with en- 1.7 million baht. Tel: 081-538 6466. Email: jariya.sung 4588. Email: info@purimas [email protected] suite and walk-in closet), 3 BUY DIRECTLY bathrooms. Fully furnished, property.com FROM OWNER 4 aircons, kitchen with se- Apartments at Kata Beach. parate pantry. Parking for 2 HOUSE FOR SALE Pay 30% and move in. Flex- cars. Communal swimming THE ROYAL PLACE For sale / rent. 3 bedrooms. Chalong. 36sqw, fully furnished, ible payment plan available. pool, garden and fitness. CONDO - PHUKET Tel: 089-649 9939. Email: 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom bunga- Tel: 081-618 7295 (English). 45sqm. Freehold. Corner room, siri_phuket@changrunner. low. 3 million baht only. Contact Email: tvanhole@yahoo. 5th floor, 2 balconies (great view), com Game. Tel: 076-288988, 093-749 com 1 bedroom, living room, 2 air- 2277 (English & Thai). Email: cons, fully furnished, swimming [email protected] pool, gym. Price: 2.3 million PHUKET VIEW POINT baht. Tel: 084-249 0526 (English Sugar Palm Condominium, & Thai). Email: h.jabary@gmail. HOUSE FOR SALE Suan Luang. Top floor (11). Cor- LAND FOR SALE com TOP LAND VILLAGE ner unit. Panoramic view. Park- Karon. Nice sea view, 400sqm. City-Mountain and Seaview. 2 4 million baht. Tel: 091-040 For sale: 6.6 million baht or bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. 2 bal- 2471. Email: [email protected] sell down payment: 400,000 KATA BEACH BARGAIN baht. Long-term rent:45,000 conies. 96sqm. Foreigner free- baht monthly, 520,000 baht hold. Tel: 089-593 8690 (En- yearly. glish), 088-762 3837 (Thai). YOU LOOKING FOR A Email: ruen_narayan@hotmail. REAL PENTHOUSE ? Tel: 089-840 5290 (Thai), com 094-579 5666 (Thai / Eng.)

LAND FOR SALE 3-minute drive to Surin 45sqw. 5 million baht, 2 bed- Beach. 1.4 rai. 36 million rooms with big living room. At last 2 new studio/apart- baht. Tel: 081-868 7676. Convenient area close to ments. 60Sqm, high quality Bangkok Hospital, Phuket furniture, Indoor pool, sauna, International Hospital and parking. Low maintenance, Villa on the roof. It is for the Tesco Lotus Samkong. For close to all facilities. For the 2.5 RAI price of a normal apartment. house inspection please 2 together 5.5 million FOR 7.5 MILLION BAHT I have that for you in Kata call 086-198 1869. baht. Price for 1 is 3.1 mil- In Thalang near Thanyapura Beach center. Two big bed- lion baht. Tel/sms: 081-788 (PIA), beautiful, flat land. Cha- rooms, big living and terrace HOT PROPERTY! 7.9 8280. note title. Email: islandsmaker with sea view, jacuzzi, fully MILLION BAHT @gmail.com furnished, indoor / outdoor 1 RAI 180° OCEAN VIEW kitchens. Private elevator en- YAMU HILL trance, indoor pool, sauna 1 or 2 rai, 180° ocean view. 24hr and parking. Total 300sqm. security, water & electricity sup- Reduced price from 25 mil- ply. Freehold. 5.7 million baht/ lion baht. Now 21 million rai. For more information, please baht or any fair offers. Tel/ call 084-625 5090 (English). sms: 081-788 8280. Email: yamu.hills.sunrise@ gmail.com

Luxury villa near beach, PROPERTY SERVICES Rawai, private pool, built-in furniture. 2 million baht dropped for quick sale. For more information, please call 081-691 3029. Email: info@ purimasproperty.com

FIRE SALE PROPERTIES We have a number of Fire Sale Properties for urgent sale at bargain price from 1.5 million baht. Most are in Rawai and Nai Harn. Condos, houses and villas. Rawai. Tel: 080-124 1245. Email: kay@phuketandaman realestate.com June 18 - 24, 2016 PHUKET GAZETTE 21 PROPERTY FOR RENT

BEACHFRONT HUGE VILLA ACCOMMODATION AVAILABLE Located in the Cape Yamu project. 250,000 baht/month. Long term. Tel: 086-279 6283. LOVELY HOUSE + POOL HOLIDAY IN NAIHARN Fully furnished, aircon, TV. Free 2,3,4 bedrooms pool villas avail- KAMALA FURNISHED pool, WiFi. Long / short term. able for rent. Tel: 085-787 3046. CONDO Rawai / Chalong near pier. 2 bedrooms with aircons, 2 bath- Please call 089-475 1200 (En- rooms, 90sqm, WiFi, cable, glish & Thai). Email: info@wel 2 HOUSES FOR RENT maid. 12,000 baht per month. come-inn.com, http://welcome IN PATONG Minimum 3 months. Tel: 084-716 inn-phuket.com 1 bedroom: 6,000 baht. 2 bed- 0502. rooms: 8,500 baht. Quiet and nice place. For more informa- STUDIO tion, please call 089-650 5135 POOLSIDE CONDO 2 BEDROOMS + POOL (English & Thai). 2 bedrooms / 2 bathrooms, fully Special rates in March/April furnished, aircons and fans, for studio, 2-bed apartments. cable TV and WiFi. Patong. Tel: Shared pool, WiFi, maid service 8,000 BAHT / MONTH 085-792 2815 (English). Email: included. Starting 9,000 baht/ 4-BEDROOM HOUSE SUGAR PALM CONDO month. Also 2-bed pool villa Natural surroundings on sea [email protected] 92sqm, 2 bedrooms, 2 bath- RAWAI SEA VIEW CONDOMINIUM available. Chalong. Tel: 086-282 canal near Boat Lagoon. Long rooms on 10th floor corner unit 6221 (English). term only. Tel: 081-892 4311. at Phuket Suan Luang Park with LUXURY VILLA ONLY direct park access. Lake, park 39,000 BAHT / MONTH and sea views, 10 min to Central Festival, 1 private car park, 20 PROPERTY SERVICES min to the beach, fully furnished. Long term: 35,000 baht/month. Tel: 087-269 8492.

BRAND NEW CONDO Short / long-term rental. 1 & @KATHU 2 bedroom apartments, fully furnished. Stunning sea view, Cozy stay with WiFi, gym large swimming pool, lift. and pool. 1 bedroom type: Tel: 093-574 2533. Email: Has it all, pool in resort. 12,000 baht / month. Tel: reservation@almaliresi Lush tropical garden by La- 095-979 9356 (English & dence.com guna. Lease. Have another Thai). Email: aood16@hot villa: 25,000 baht / month. mail.com For more information, please call 089-594 4067. MODERN HOME BEACHFRONT VILLA THALANG FOR RENT 3-BEDROOM HOUSE 3 bedrooms, 2 bahtrooms, fully FOR RENT furnished. 10,000 baht / month. CONSTRUCTION, ARE YOU LOSING 40,000 baht. Quiet location near Tel: 090-924 5838. Email: vicky_ MAINTENANCE MONEY? Wat Chalong. 3 bedrooms. 4 [email protected] Construction, renovation, Phuket's first full-service bathrooms. Secure small es- maintenance, air-conditio- vacation rental manage- tate. Uninterrupted lake and ner service & installation, ment company run by ex- mountain views. Parking for KATA BEACH pool service and mainte- perts from the hotel industry. three cars. Swimming pool. FOR RENT nance, electric surveys, Introducing Lofty - do you Internet, cable TV, pool mainte- Special price: 10,000 baht/ mold remediation. Kathu. have any idea how much nance, gardener all included month, 500 baht daily, has Mai Khao Beach. 5 bed- Visit our website or give us your property could make in price. Available until Novem- everything, near beach. Tel: rooms, big garden. Real a call for more information. if managed properly? Con- ber 30th, 2016. Tel: 093-793 086-595 8512. Email: kata estate agencies welcomed. Tel: 083-394 8337 (English), tact us for a free income 4258 (English), 085-696 0078. [email protected] Email: [email protected] 080-141 4577 (English & assessment! You will be Email: [email protected] Thai). Email: mattias@zion amazed. Patong. Tel: 092- property.com, Please visit 475 4984 (English), 084-926 our website at http://zionpro 6063 (Thai). Email: info@lof perty.com typhuket.com LUXURY HOUSE FOR SALE/RENT

Large luxury 4-bedroom house with private pool, walled, garden, in Sai Yuan, Rawai / Nai Harn area. For sale: 12.5 million baht or long term rent 45,000 baht, 1 year minimum. Tel: 095- 061 2868. Email: l.dewis@ hotmail.com 22 PHUKET GAZETTE June 18 - 24, 2016 GENERAL JOBS / RECRUITMENT

CLASSIFIEDS FOOTBALL COACH KIS is looking for a coach for our football team. Can be part-time BUSINESS PRODUCTS & SERVICES / full-time. Tel: 082-425 0104 (En- glish & Thai). Email: supawat_ [email protected]

ELECTRICAL ENGINEER WANTED We are a locally based Ma- rine Electrical company look- ing for an Electrical Engi- neer. Phuket Boat Lagoon. Tel: 081-396 0785. Email: [email protected]

COPYWRITER WANTED Siam Real Estate requires ur- gently an experienced English speaking copywriter to write real estate copy. Can work from any- where. Good commission and regular work. Please call for more information at 076-288908. Apply at jobs@siamrealestate. com

OFFICE EQUIPMENT

NEED A PA? 3 IN 1 POINT OF SALES SERVICE EXECUTIVE Pan PA Executive Services. OFFICE DESK If you feel overwhelmed by Are you running a restau- your business or travel rant, bar, resort, spa, retail Chairman executive desk needs for your trip to Thai- store, kiosk, fitness center? (2 leather writing pad areas) land, we offer help and ad- GHBS-POS is a 3 in 1 point with 2-drawer filing cabinet vice to make your stay worry of sale system that allows (110cm x 244cm). 40,000 free and comfortable. At your service and sales team baht. Tel: 087-895 8160 (En- Bangkok. Tel: 099-431 9776, to better coordinate its effort glish). Email: faserio@go 092-915 4441 (English & and places the emphasis goltd.hk Thai). Email: panexecutive back on its clientele. Fast [email protected] www.panex ordering, quick service, hap- ecutivepa.com pier customers and being in control are your key ben- BULLETINS efits. Tel: 085-784 3043 (En- glish). Email: prodders@ BUSINESS gmail.com OPPORTUNITIES

CLUB BAR FOR RENT BooGaLoo Bar. Soi Patong Re- MEMBERSHIP sort. 4 rooms included. 3-year AVAILABLE contract. Only 1.5 million baht. No rental fee paid. Tel: 087-280 6866, 086-273 2392. PCC - GOLF MEMBERSHIP 2 BARS FOR SALE Urgent sale. Phuket Country Playschool a Gogo & Navy Bar. Club. Full lifetime membership In the heart of Patong. Bangla (family). Paid up membership Road. 4 million baht O.N.O. Tel: fees until 1 January 2017. 081-083 3231. 430,000 baht. For more informa- tion, please call 081-719 0460 (English), 080-584 0444 (Thai). Email: grahamsmail@gmail. REAL ESTATE com AGENCY If you are interested in ac- quiring a successful, well BLUE CANYON established real estate GOLF CLUB agency in Phuket. Tel: 093- Membership available: 800,000 346 1491 (English). baht or best offer. Email: ajee [email protected] June 18 - 24, 2016 PHUKET GAZETTE 23 WHEELS BOATS & MARINE & MOTORS

MULTIONE COMPACT MINI LOADER

Machine only running 50 hours. 1 year old. Includes a lot of equipment. Tel: 089- 588 4550. Email: pdhthai [email protected]

NISSAN NV RELIABLE TRANSPORT New battery, alternator, brakes and front tires. Only 95,000 baht. Chalong. For more information, please call 089-973 6005 (En- glish & Thai), 081-894 8588 (En- glish). Email: BennoB@dive asia.com

GENERAL AVIATION 24 PHUKET GAZETTE June 18 - 24, 2016 Born with the healing touch By Sahar Aftab Paliwala wellness retreat in Rawai called which also reduces stress lev- people have even He was also part of Atsumi, so I started working as els in the body.” started organizing Damien Rider’s team JIRADECH Chittawong, or a physiotherapist and guest These days, he works as a their own events when he undertook Charlie Arm, as he is better manager there. At that time, I freelancer, visiting patients at and the groups the paddle against known to his friends, is a phys- could barely speak any English their homes to provide services. are getting larger child abuse late iotherapist from Hat Yai. Just – it was hard for me to string a “It is important for me to be than ever.” last year. 23 years of age, his clients re- proper sentence together. As I mobile, as a lot of my patients Charlie also To learn more fer to him as a ‘miracle met more people and made new are unable to come to me. works as a sports about his work, worker’. He graduated with a friends, my English improved Sometimes, it’s as simple as therapist and visit his website Bachelor’s degree in physio- as well,” said Charlie. adapting yourself to your envi- treats sports inju- at: www.theartof therapy from the Prince of After expanding his net- ronment. For instance, your bed ries. physio.com. Songkla University (PSU) Hat work, Charlie moved to another could be too low, or your Yai Campus two years ago. wellness retreat, Phuket shelves may be too high. The “I spent my last year of uni- Cleanse, where he worked as a human body is a marvelous ma- versity interning at different physiotherapist, grew his client chine and I always love clinics in the south of Thailand. base and started conducting enhancing my knowledge of During this time, I learned a lot, workshops. anatomy, biology and bio-me- but also realized that working “Most people breathe chanics. They are fascinating at a hospital would not suit me through their upper chests, subjects and very useful in our well. My professors told me whereas the correct way to daily lives,” he said. that I spent too much time tend- breathe is through your dia- Charlie also conducts com- ing to each patient, which phragm. It helps to improve munity activities to encourage wasn’t practical with hundreds your posture and restore proper people to stay healthy and of patients coming in on a daily circulation of blood throughout active. basis,” said Charlie. your body,” said Charlie. “I want to involve more He decided to move to Phuket “This is especially useful for people, particularly Thais, after graduating and immediately people who work in desk jobs with physical fitness. A fell in love with the island. and keep sitting for long peri- group of friends and I “I love the beaches, sunshine ods of time everyday. About started a ‘fun run’ at Nai and the lovely environment, as half my clients suffer from the Harn for this purpose, which well as the opportunity to meet ‘office syndrome’, which is quickly gained popularity lots of different people. I started back, neck and shoulder pain among locals and foreigners from scratch when I moved due to long periods of inactiv- alike. I was surprised, but here. My thesis adviser at col- ity. I help them to remain active happy, to see the increasing lege had a friend who ran a and restore blood circulation, numbers every week. Now