THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021

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Friday, January 8 – Thursday, January 14, 2021 Since 2011 / Volume XI / No. 2 20 Baht FIRST TURTLE IN DECADES LAYS EGGS AT KATA > PAGE 5 NEWS PAGE 3 Phuket inmates moved to new RED ALERT home in Bangjo

LIFE PAGE 9 Soi Dog marks half million sterilisations

New Region 8 Police Commander Lt Gen Kittharath Punpetch oversees people arriving in Phuket by road at the Phuket Check Point in Tha Chatchai. Photo: Region 8 Police

PHUKET COVID MEASURES RAMPED UP AS HEAVY RESTRICTIONS IMPOSED IN 28 ‘RED ZONE’ PROVINCES, INCLUDING BANGKOK

have a ban imposed on the use of Bangkok and provincial governors measures are not in effect,” he said. Tanyaluk Sakoot [email protected] buildings at schools and educational are authorised to close pubs, bars and “At this stage, domestic tourists institutions areas with maximum karaoke outlets in red zones. The new and even international tourists landing PAGE 16 rovincial officials have set their controls to be imposed for teaching restrictions do not ban customers from directly in Phuket are still allowed,” SPORT sights on ensuring Phuket is not and learning or activities likely to dining in eateries, however, though he added. Pdeclared a ‘red zone’ amid the draw a crowd, except for online the number of sit-in patrons must be Whether or not Phuket is declared Asia select XI COVID-19 outbreak that this week learning, charities, public services limited. Alcohol consumption is not a red zone is beyond the authority of saw 28 provinces, including the with permission from provincial allowed inside eateries. Phuket officials, Dr Thanit explained. winners in ACG capital Bangkok, placed under harsh governors, small schools with no So far, at the time of going to “That is for the CCSA to determine,” New Year game restrictions in the hope of curtailing more than 120 students, and border press, none of those harsh restrictions he said. the spread of the virus. patrol police schools. were in force in Phuket. “Also, please note that the number The crackdown in the 28 Activities which could transmit the Phuket remains a “yellow zone” of [COVID-positive] cases is not the provinces, signed by Prime Minister virus in red zones, such as meetings, province, Phuket Provincial Public sole factor in determining whether Prayut Chan-o-cha as director of seminars, banquets, and food handouts Health Office (PPHO) Chief Thanit or not a province is declared a red the Centre for COVID-19 Situation are forbidden, except where they are Sermkaew confirmed to The Phuket zone,” he noted. Administration (CCSA), came into carried out or permitted by authorities News on Tuesday (Jan 5). “The CCSA will assess the risk effect on Monday (Jan 4). or they take place in quarantine “This means the Phuket is under level of a particular province before Areas declared ‘red zones’ now facilities. ‘high surveillance’, but red zone deciding whether it should be declare... CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

@thephuketnews 2 PHUKET NEWS THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021

[email protected] Rewat set to help COVID News jobless > p4 Officials target avoiding a lockdown Continued from page 1 the ‘D-M-H-T-T’ measure: D- such all large public gatherings Chalermpong pointed out. ...a red zone. The decision will Social Distancing, M- Mask are banned, but smaller, private “All of them are healthy, and include factors that determine wearing, H-Hand washing, events may go ahead as long as not showing any further signs the level of risk of an outbreak T-Temperature checking, and T- COVID-prevention measures of infection. Their lungs have in that particular province,” Thai Chana scanning,” Governor are enforced. cleared, and there is also no he said. Narong said. The confirmation came as evidence of damage to any of Amid concerns spiralling Walking street markets Phuket this week saw its three their organs,” Dr Chalermpong online, Phuket Governor Narong must remain closed until Jan cases of confirmed COVID-19 said. Woonciew last Sunday (Jan 20, while department stores infections ready to be discharged Dr Chalermpong noted 3) confirmed there were no are asked to make sure more from hospital, fully recovered. that the only evidence of their lockdowns in Phuket and has hand sanitiser is available for Gov Narong Woonciew confirmed there are no The 40-year-old Phuket infection remains are dead cells asked officials and local people customers. lockdowns in Phuket yet. Photo: PR Phuket man who tested positive for still in their systems. “These to strictly follow the COVID-19 Schools, gyms, fitness COVID-19 after returning from cells are unable to spread,” control measures. centers are allowed to remain also confirmed that the 106 days and see a doctor as soon as a big bike event on Koh Lanta, he said. Governor Narong explained open, but must follow the migrant workers who recently possible if having symptoms.” Krabi, last month, was to be However, the father and two that at this stage, all people provincial government order traveled to Samut Sakhon to Under the order, local discharged from Vachira Phuket sons after leaving the hospital entering Phuket must be issued on Dec 24, Gov Narong extend their work permits were officials are empowered to Hospital on Tuesday (Jan 5) after will be required to observe screened to prevent the spread confirmed. tested for the virus. All 106 take whatever action deemed serving a 14-day quarantine another 14-day quarantine of the virus. Further, the Phuket office tested negative, he said. necessary to help prevent any under observation by doctors, at home, Dr Chalermpong However, in an order posted of the Department of Land The Phuket office of the potential spread of COVID-19, Dr Thanit confirmed. explained. online over the weekend, he also Transport will not provide Public Relations Department including ordering opening The man’s two sons were “This is a requirement by only “asked” people arriving services that require an applicant (PR Phuket) last Sunday also and closing times for all types to also be discharged from the CCSA [Centre for COVID on the island from risk areas to visit the office in person, he publicly posted an order issued of businesses, including pubs, Vachira hospital on Thursday Situation Administration],” to self-quarantine for 14 days. added. by Governor Narong on Dec bars and restaurants. (Jan 7), confirmed Vachira he said. All relevant agencies and Following the Samut 30, ordering all officials to take Yet, so far, no such harsh Phuket Hospital Director Dr “After all three have been other organisations, including Sakhon shrimp truck scare appropriate action to prevent any actions have been ordered on Chalermpong Sukontapol. discharged [from hospital], as stores and businesses across the last week, which saw concerns risk of COVID in their areas the island. Once the father and his long as there are no new cases, island were also urged to ramp heightened over a truck driving The order also specifically Governor Narong repeated sons have been discharged then Phuket’s COVID-19 record up their COVID-protection delivering shrimp to Samut asked, “For those who did travel that the same anti-COVID from hospital, Phuket’s will return to zero – and I hope measures. Sakhon and returning to Phuket, to the high risk areas, please measures ordered ahead of the current official tally of COVID we will keep it at zero like this,” “Every person has to follow Governor Narong last Sunday quarantine yourselves for 14 new year remained in effect. As cases will return to zero, Dr he said.

Man shot dead in Phuket car park A MAN WAS SHOT DEAD had called him to arrange a in the car park behind the meeting. Sanpetch, who was main SuperCheap store on about to head home for the day, Thepkrasattri Rd in Rassada brought a fellow truck driver on Dec 30 over what has been friend with him – and a long described as a “long-running iron bar, Lt Col Chaleaw said. dispute”. Police at the scene. Photo: As Sanpetch pulled up on The killer, Akkarawat Eakkapop Thongtub a motorbike with his friend Manibarat, 37, from Pa Phayom riding pillion, Akkarawat ex- District in Phatthalung, had Officers arrived to find the ited a black Phuket-registered already surrendered to police, body of Sanpetch Thongchai, Toyota car and rushed towards Lt Col Chaleaw Thaihu, 31, of Khuan Khanun District Sanpetch while pointing a Inspector at Phuket Town in Phatthalung, on the ground handgun at him. Police, confirmed the next day. with a bullet wound to his left Sanpetch fell over on the Police were called to the temple. motorbike, and Akkarawat scene, the warehouse area Sanpetch, a truck driver walked up to him and shot at behind the main building at at the store, had arrived at close range, Lt Col Chaleaw the complex, at 5:12pm. the scene after Akkarawat added. Eakkapop Thongtub

thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021 THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021 PHUKET NEWS 3 New prison opens early Tanyaluk Sakoot COVID-19. The Ministry of [email protected] Justice wanted to give the prisoners a New Year’s gift. ore than 2,000 The new prison was already male inmates were 100% complete and all the Mtransferred to the security systems had been new Phuket Provincial Prison properly tested, so there was in Bangjo, Srisoonthorn, on no reason to not move them Dec 29 as an early New Year’s early,” he explained. gift to the prisoners who had Previously, the prisoners remained incarcerated at the were not expected to be long-overcrowded prison in moved to the new prison Phuket Town. until at least next month at In total, all 2,308 male the earliest. prisoners who were serving The new prison will sentences at the old prison give inmates some much- were moved to the new facility welcomed extra space. in Bangjo, built at a cost of Mr Suchart confirmed last B789 million under a project August that the total official that took nearly five years to capacity of the old prison in complete. Phuket Town was just over The only prisoners 1,200 prisoners. remaining at the old prison Before today it was home in Phuket Town are the 520 to nearly 3,000 male and female prisoners serving Prisoners are transported from the old prison in female inmates. sentences there, Prison Phuket Town on Dec 29. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot Mr Suchart said he was Commissioner Suchart not privy to what will happen Silapachai told The Phuket making multiple round-trips traffic along Thepkrasattri Rd. we received help from Civil Thammarat, Chumphon and with the old prison once the News. to complete the transfer. “I apologise for any Defense Volunteers [OrSor] Surat Thani,” Mr Suchart female inmates have also “They will be moved to The operation began at inconvenience we may have and other law-enforcement explained. been transferred to the new the new prison soon,” Mr 8:30am and was concluded caused on the roads today. officers instead.” he said. Mr Suchart refuted the prison. Suchart said. He declined to by 2:30pm. The transfer of the prisoners “In order to complete the idea that the prisoners were “That is beyond my confirm when. In order to complete each could not be announced early transfer safely we needed transferred early due to fears responsibility,” he said today. The mass transfer on Dec 25-minute transfer window, the for security reasons,” Mr 90 officers in total. In order of COVID-19 spreading among The old prison has stood 29 was conducted by using 10 prison trucks and their prison Suchart said. to do this we needed to prisoners in the overcrowded for more than 100 years, prisoner transfer trucks, each officer escort vans used sirens “Traffic Police were busy bring in extra prison officers prison in Phuket Town. making it one of the oldest carrying about 40 prisoners, to clear their way through the with other duties today, but from Ranong, Nakhon Sri “It has nothing to do with buildings in Phuket Town.

New Year road-safety campaign ends with one dead, 36 injured PHUKET CONCLUDED THE SEVEN Days of Danger road-safety campaign for the New Year at midnight Monday night (Jan 4) with one death and 36 people injured in road accidents over the holiday period. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM-Phuket) reported on Tuesday (Jan 5) that Phuket suffered a total of 35 accidents. Of the 36 people injured, 26 were male and 10 were female, noted the report. In contrast, the national Thai Road Safety Committee (ThaiRSC) official website reported that 299 people were injured and Phuket Vice Governor Vikrom Jakthee on Jan 1 revealed that four motorbike riders one person died in road accidents in Phuket involved accidents were drunk. However, during the whole seven days. police charged just three people for According to the DDPM report released drunk driving during the whole seven days. on Tuesday, Phuket last year suffered 54 Photo: PR Phuket people injured in 47 accidents – with zero deaths. Phuket officials do not recognise people fined for speeding and just three two deaths last year as being attributable people arrested for drunk driving. to the campaign for New year 2020. In comparison, DDPM-Phuket last year Phuket’s one recognised road fatality for reported that police in Phuket issued 8,437 this year’s New Year Seven Days campaign fines for moving violations during the saw Kasemsan Kamphan, 54, killed in the seven-day campaign for New Year 2020. early hours of Jan 1 after the motorbike he Of those, 193 were for drunk driving. was sitting on while waiting at traffic lights Of note, in delivering the daily report to turn right onto Kwang Rd in Wichit was on Jan 1, Phuket Vice Governor Vikrom struck from behind by a pickup truck. Jakthee said, “It was found that all six ac- The pickup truck driver, not named in cidents were caused by motorcycles and official reports, was reported to have been in four accidents the drivers were drunk, charged with drunk driving. so we would like all sectors to strictly Meanwhile, Phuket police reported enforce the law in order to deter drivers issuing 2,739 fines for moving violations [from breaking the law].” during the campaign this year, with zero The Phuket News thephuketnews @thephuketnews 4 PHUKET NEWS THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021

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CHRIS HUSTED Executive Editor 084 307 7408 [email protected] Help for Phuket’s COVID jobless The Phuket News to qualify to receive assistance allocate the central budget to [email protected] from the central government. drive the economy as much BEN TIREBUCK News / Sport Editor “If the three ministries as possible. 061 806 8132 [email protected] ewat Areerob, who [named above] are still unable “We must also check has been unofficially to help these people, we will whether there is any other Rnamed president- contact various associations In budget that can help, and elect of the Phuket Provincial Thailand for financial support, how we can invite foreign Administration Organisation this goes for local businesses investors to invest in Phuket TANYALUK ‘MANGO’ SAKOOT (PPAO, or OrBorJor) following as well,” he added. and increase tourist attractions Chief Reporter 091 165 0260 [email protected] the election on Dec 20, has “We will recover the in order to accelerate the announced that helping people economy by stimulating economic recovery of the subsisting on incomes heavily tourism, adding more tourist province,” Mr Rewat noted. affected by the COVID-19 attractions and inviting more Mr Rewat also explained outbreak among his top tourists and investors to that although he has yet to be Rewat Areerob and his team on Dec 28. Photo: PR Phuket KIATTIKUL ‘JOM’ priorities. Phuket,” Mr Rewat promised. installed as PPAO President, CHUMANEE Translator 082 729 0270 Mr Rewat made the Mr Rewat also expressed he began working as if he were [email protected] announcement at the Phuket to source supplies of daily Residents in Muang his concern over the PPAO’s already in office since the day Merlin Hotel in Phuket Town necessities and distribute it District will be able to register ability to provide assistance after the election. on Dec 28, where he held to people in Phuket at cheap at a centre that will be set to residents and businesses in “At this time, those who his first press conference prices,” Mr Rewat explained. up at Saphan Hin, while need of help. will be serving as councilors since being named the People in need of Kathu District residents will “I think that the ability of and as the PPAO Secretary JASON BEAVAN General Manager unofficial winner of the PPAO assistance will be able to be able to register at Kathu the PPAO to raise funds at this has yet to be confirmed as 086 479 7471 [email protected] presidential election. register to receive help, he said. Wittaya School, and residents time is worrisome, because the Election Commission Mr Rewat estimated that “The project will be set of Thalang will be able to we cannot collect any taxes of Thailand has yet to fully 40,000 to 50,000 people on the up with centres in all three register at Muang Thalang from hotels. The same applies confirm the election results,” island were greatly affected by districts to prevent congestion, School, Mr Rewat said. for many other local taxes,” Mr Rewat explained. the current economic situation. and we will coordinate with “After that, we’ll look at he said. Mr Rewat concluded SIRIPORN (NOK) SEANGMAS Centres will be set up the Ministry of Labour, which laws allow the PPAO to “I think this will affect the press conference with a Sales Support 086 479 7470 [email protected] in each district in order to the Ministry of Interior provide assistance to people the province’s development message of blessing to the find ways to help people who and the Ministry of Social with insufficient income. We budget. I have to use my people of Phuket for the New are suffering deep financial Development and Human will be able to help and take abilities to contact the central Year to encourage them to

NIRAVIT ‘MOS’ VORAVANITCHA distress, he said. Security, and other relevant care of at least some of the government. For example, the overcome the COVID crisis THANAPONG ‘OAK’ KHAO-AMPHAIPHAN Graphic designers “We will set up a project organisations,” he added. people who have been unable Ministry of the Interior must together.

The Phuket News @thephuketnews Provincial Hall finish in sight Teens caught with kratom haul MORE THAN SIX YEARS AFTER POLICE LAST WEEK ARRES- the contract was signed to build the ted two teenagers found in B546 million new Phuket Provincial possession of more than 200 Hall, Phuket Governor Narong kilograms of kratom leaves. Woonciew on Dec 30 announced Phuket native Nontharit ‘Nice’ that the decades-in-coming project Ketchart, 19, and Suwimol ‘Palm’ is now expected to be finished in Mayu, 18, originally from Nongkhai, The couple were found with 220kg July 2021. Phuket’s new Provincial Hall were arrested at Baan Bang Duk of kratom leaves packed in 22 The structure of the provincial hall might finally be finished this year. Pier in Mai Khao early on Dec 30, black plastic bags. Photo: Phuket is already complete. All that remains Photo: The Phuket News / file reported Phuket Provincial Police Provincial Police to be done to complete the building Commander Pol Maj Gen Pornsak is the installation of “infrastructure” with the one built at Baan Muang Mai Nuannoo. Thepsuthin only last month confirmed such as electrical and water supply in Tambon Thepkrasattri, Thalang, The couple were arrested at that kratom leaves will be removed fittings, and the finishing touches of currently serving as the provincial ‘Lak about 3:30am after officers led by as a specifically controlled substance painting and decorating the building, Mueang’ for the island, Ms Chantana Maj Phirasit Noophayan moved in under the Narcotics Act. Governor Narong said. explained. during a police operation, Maj Gen Kratom is currently classified as A contractor has been found to The Baan Muang Mai ‘Lak Mueang’ Pornsak explained. Category 5 on the national drugs list. finish the long-awaited structure, was built under a project that began in Nontharit and Suwimol were Mr Somsak said only kratom, a which is supposed to serve as the 2010, she added. found with 220kg of kratom leaves plant containing a natural stimulant, seat of government power for the The new ‘Lak Mueang’ will be built packed in 22 black plastic bags. will be removed from the list. It province. also at Baan Muang Mai. In making the arrests, police contained only a small amount of the “The infrastructure installation “After construction of the [new] ‘Lak also seized a black Honda Civic car drug, he said. was to be completed within 500 days, Mueang’ is finished, we will submit an registered in Nakhon Ratchasima and Proper consumption of kratom, for but we asked the contractor to hurry invitation for The King to preside over a white Phuket-registered Mazda 2 example no more than 20 leaves per up to finish it in 210 days. Therefore, the opening ceremony and anoint the car as evidence, Maj Gen Pornsak day, would not have harmful effects on it will be finished in the same month pillar,” Governor Narong said. confirmed. people’s health or physical condition, with Lak Mueang [sic],” Governor It was not revealed how much the Maj Phirasit confirmed that Justice Minister Somsak explained. Narong said. ‘Lak Mueang’ already completed Nontharit and Suwimol were taken Once kratom had been officially The ‘Lak Mueang’ is a ‘city pillar in Baan Muang Mai cost to build, a to Tha Chatchai police station removed from the list, laws would be shrine’, a traditional structure used by point now relevant as its use will be where they had been charged with issued requiring people to seek official cities and towns throughout Thailand replaced by the new ‘Lak Mueang’ possession of a Category 5 drug permission to grow it, and to prevent to serve as the symbolic “centre of nearly finished in the same village. with intent to sell. the leaves being sold to children, he the soul” of the community. How much is being spent on building Justice Minister Somsak said. The Phuket News Phuket currently has four ‘Lak the new ‘Lak Mueang’ was also not Mueang’ erected across the island, revealed. The Phuket News

thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021 PHUKET NEWS 5 Dangerous beach road to be resurfaced ‘soon’ Eakkapop Thongtub [email protected]

atong Mayor Chalermluck Kebsup has announced that the long awaited completion of installing P The large leatherback turtle was the first in decades to power and communication cables underground along the Patong Beach lay eggs at Kata Beach. Photo: PR Phuket road will be ‘soon’, beginning an end to months of motorists having to negotiate dangerous bumps and raised areas on the Leatherback turtle lays road where workers have been installing the cables. Many parts of the Patong beach road have dangerous raised areas where workers eggs on Kata beach The news came at a press conference have been working on the cables underground. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub FOR THE FIRST TIME IN officers inspected the nest and at Patong Municipality offices on Dec 29, decades, a large leatherback found about 50-60 eggs. where Mayor Chalermluck was joined by January 2021,” Mayor Chalermluck said. start removing the cables from along turtle came ashore at Kata The nest site has been Kittimaet Kornphatsawat, Director of the After the new power and the side of the road. This part will be Beach in Phuket to lay eggs sealed off for protection and Provincial Electricity Authority’s Special communications cables are brought completed first before Songkran,” he said. early on New Year’s Day. a thermometer installed to Project Management Construction and online, the power poles and cables that “Then after Songkran It will take The turtle came ashore monitor the temperature in Management Division. now line the side of the road will be about a month and a half to two months to in front of the Kata Beach the nest. Mayor Chalermluck explained that removed in an operation that is hoped dismantle all the power poles,” he added. Community Park at 00:50am Karon Deputy Mayor the municipality has been unable to to be completed by sometime in June, “This will result in a beautiful (Jan 1), much to the amazement Itthiporn Sangkaew, himself move ahead with resurfacing the road, she said. landscape in line with the objectives of of people still on the beach a native of the Kata-Karon officially named Thaweewong Rd, as “As soon as the municipality has both agencies, the Provincial Electricity celebrating the New Year. area, was overly happy about workers have repeatedly needed to access received confirmation from the Electricity Authority and Patong Municipality,” Mr The turtle’s shell measured the turtle. the new cables installed underground to Authority that no more traffic surfaces Kittimet said. 150cm long and 119cm wide, “As far as I can remember make final adjustments and conduct tests will be opened, the municipality will The project to install the power and with the turtle’s front left the last time turtles laid eggs on the cables. hurry to finish the new road surface by communications cables underground flipper measuring 86cm long at a beach in Kata-Karon was While Mayor Chalermluck admitted February. If we can find a contractor,” stretches from the bridge at the southern and its front right flipper 83cm decades ago. Certainly not in that the state of the road had made it said Ms Chalermluck. end of Patong beach all the way to Loma long, reported officers from the past 20 years,” he said. “inconvenient”, for many people who In a statement of assurance, Mr Circle at the northern end. the Department of Marine and Officers have been ordered drive along the road the hazards are just Kittimet said that PEA workers were The project is being funded by a Coastal Resources (DMCR). to protect the nest and people plain dangerous. conducting final tests on the cables budget of B213,640,647 provided by The turtle was estimated visiting the beach are being That problem will soon be resolved, installed underground. Patong Municipality supported by a to weigh about 300kg. asked to ensure the nest “as the electrical authorities have pledged “This work should be completed by budget of B60,365,957 provided by the After the turtle returned to remains undisturbed. that this operation will be completed in January [sic], after which workers will Provincial Electricity Authority. the sea, at about 4:30am, the The Phuket News

Red Cross calls for donations WITH THE ANNUAL help support the Phuket Red Phuket Red Cross Fair Cross. Among the donations cancelled this year due to singled out for special thanks concerns over COVID-19, was one for B710,000. Even Wandee Woonciew, President donations of just B2,000 to of the Thai Red Cross B3,000 were also held up as chapter in Phuket, has called Ms Wandee was thankful for examples that any donations for donations to help the all donations, large or small. to help the Phuket Red Cross organisation continue with its Photo: PR Phuket continue its work were much community outreach projects. appreciated. The annual fair each year funds to help people in need “This event was organised helps to raise much needed was much greater, she added. to raise money for the Phuket funds for community projects, At a recent event at Provin- Red Cross to use in helping Ms Wandee explained. cial Hall, Ms Wandee – joined people affected by various This year, with the number by her husband Governor disasters in Phuket, including of people suffering financial Narong Woonciew – recog- those greatly affected during hardship due to the ongoing nised individuals and busi- the COVID-19 outbreak,” Ms economic crisis, the raising of nesses who made donations to Wandee said. The Phuket News

@thephuketnews 6 BUSINESS NEWS THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021 What does 2021 hold for local businesses? Andres Pira, CEO & Founder of Blue Horizon Developments, shares his insights transactions in Phuket as ADVERTORIAL the island has a significant number of foreign investors. aving recently marked Moreover, the dwindling the end of a year that economy worldwide has also Hadmittedly could have reduced the purchasing power been better, many people of investors, leaving them un- welcomed the brand-new year able to go forward with their with an unshakeable thought: investment plans. The lack “What does 2021 hold?”. of sales in the development Ever since the new strain of phase of real estate projects the coronavirus, which was has left property developers first detected in the United in a tight spot as they may Kingdom in the last quarter have no resources to fund of 2020, found its way to construction and other related Asia, many locals believe it is activities. only a matter of time before “At Blue Horizon De- it spreads to the Kingdom of velopments, we are grateful Thailand and wreaks havoc on for our investors who share public health and the economy. our vision and believe in our However, real estate tycoon potential. Together, we are Andres Pira maintains an looking forward to a better optimistic outlook. and brighter future for Phuket Pira, who is the CEO & as a whole. Blue Horizon Founder of the Phuket-based Developments has secured property development com- new global partnerships dur- pany Blue Horizon Develop- The Blue Horizon team (bluehorizon-thailand.com). ing the pandemic that will ments, acknowledges that the propel our company to new potential effects of the new naturally have to keep the the virus. Many countries to achieve herd immunity. “With the vaccines, there are levels of growth and success. strain of the coronavirus can- travel restrictions that are around the world are already When asked about his pre- high hopes that the pandemic We will reveal and update not be discounted. It is, after currently in place intact or securing vaccines to provide dictions about the economy, will be successfully dealt with our clients and investors of all, 70% more transmissible tighten them, which would to its citizens, and Thailand Pira says there is always light this year, which will have a the exciting news during this than the original strain and have an impact on Thailand’s is no different. The Thai at the end of the tunnel. “If positive impact on the Thai as first quarter of 2021,” says therefore, could cause more tourism-fuelled economy. government aims to vaccinate 2020 is anything to go by, well as the global economy.” Pira, who firmly believes that infections in people. To re- At the same time, Pira almost half its population this Thailand has proven that it With regards to Phuket’s Phuket will recover this year dress the health effects of the believes there is hope now year and up to 70% in 2022, can handle a pandemic to the real estate sector, the lack of once the roll-out of vaccines new strain, countries would that there is a vaccine to fight which would be sufficient best of its abilities,” says Pira. tourism has reduced property successfully takes place.

thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021 THAILAND NEWS 7 More COVID vaccines on way Total at 63 million after order with China and unnamed provider

The Phuket News from overly strict containment [email protected] measures. “We don’t want to lock down rime Minister Prayut Chan- the entire country because we know o-cha confirmed on Monday what the problems are, so can you P(Jan 4) that the government all lock down yourselves?” he said. intends to purchase another 35 “This is up to everyone, if you million COVID-19 vaccine doses, don’t want to get infected just stay taking the total number ordered to home for 14 to 15 days. If you think 63 million. like this then things will be safe, It was not confirmed where the easier for screening.” additional vaccine shots would Thailand recorded 745 new come from but Gen Prayut did coronavirus cases on Monday, the state that the government needed highest daily rise since the outbreak to ensure the shots are safe, had no of the pandemic in January 2020. A side effects and were in line with further 527 cases were confirmed standards set by the country’s Food on Tuesday, bringing the total to and Drug Administration (FDA). 8,966, at time of press. “I have also ordered another The vaccination strategy as set by The Ministry of Public Health. Image: Bangkok Post Graphics One additional death was re- 35 million doses and most of the ported, raising the total to 65. population are expected to be vac- company Sinovac Biotech Ltd, without risking a serious disease the right to produce its COVID-19 The latest death was a 56-year-old cinated,” the prime minister said. will arrive in three batches: the response. vaccine in Thailand, with supplies man in Bangkok, said Taweesilp It is expected that people with first 200,000 doses will arrive in “CoronaVac is a more traditional expected by May. That vaccine will Visanuyothin, spokesman for the the highest risks for infections, February, 800,000 will be delivered method [of vaccine] that is success- be produced by Thailand’s Siam Centre for COVID-19 Situation healthcare workers and village in March, and another 1 million in fully used in many well-known Bioscience with a formula and tech- Administration (CCSA). health volunteers will be inocu- April, stated the Health Ministry. vaccines like rabies,” Associate nology developed by AstraZeneca The man died on Sunday, two lated first. CoronaVac recently underwent Prof Luo Dahai of the Nanyang and the University of Oxford. days after testing positive for COV- The announcement came on the trials in Brazil, China, Turkey and Technological University told the Gen Prayut said he had instruct- ID-19, and had suffered from nu- same day that the government con- Indonesia where it recorded varying BBC. ed the Disease Control Department merous underlying diseases before firmed they had ordered 2 million results of effectiveness. Last week and National Vaccine Institute to being admitted to hospital on Dec shots of the Chinese manufactured Ukraine confirmed it has ordered ‘LOCK DOWN YOUR- work with the FDA to handle the 28. Records showed he had recently CoronaVac vaccine which is to be 2 million doses. SELVES’ vaccinations. He also stated that travelled to Samut Prakan and the delivered in instalments. The vaccine works by expos- The Thai government also recently the government was assessing the Klong Toey district of Bangkok. CoronaVac, manufactured by ing the body’s immune system to signed a deal for 26 million doses situation on a daily basis and was Additional reporting Beijing-based pharmaceutical the virus via killed viral particles of vaccine with AstraZeneca and mindful of the economic damage by Bangkok Post

Prawit: No gambling dens in Bangkok DEPUTY PRIME MINIS- doctor who provides this ter Prawit Wongsuwon says information,” he said. “I don’t he doubts there are any believe illegal casinos are illegal gambling dens in operating in Bangkok, but if Bangkok, despite warnings the doctor knows about it, he by a senior health official that can inform the authorities.” such premises pose a serious The Bangkok Metropoli- coronavirus threat. tan Administration (BMA) Opas Bhudachareon, head reported 28 new cases of of Chulalongkorn Hospital’s Deputy PM Prawit COVID-19 on Monday al- Centre for Emerging Infectious Wongsuwon. Photo: though a spokesman denied Diseases, said recently one Bangkok Post reports that some of those COVID-19 patient there was infected had contracted the linked to a gambling den in claimed on Monday (Jan 4) virus at casinos in Bangkok, Bangkok and urged those who there were no such illegal saying the Disease Control had visited the venue to be activities because the police Department stated they had tested for COVID-19. had clamped down on them. been infected at casinos in However, Gen Prawit “You must ask the Pattaya. Bangkok Post

@thephuketnews 8 ENTERTAINMENT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021 Phuket Town’s evolving music scene rehearse or perform in the Pastel Bar Andy Tong Dee not far away on Phuket Rd. You may also sometimes hear them in Ngor ’ve lived in Phuket now for 10 Kaa Key on Thalang Rd, opposite the years and seen many changes, Eleven/Twenty Café. but none as dramatic and sudden The Vanguard is one of the new as those caused by COVID-19. upcoming Thai “Indie” bands and is of Patong, Kamala, Kata and Karon particular interest. It has a brass sec- once had thriving music scenes tion and plays jazzy or funky Thai and based on covering Western songs, Western songs. However, the Western but all that is postponed. songs it covers are not to be found in Phuket’s musical centre has now what I call the “Patong Songbook” of Ishifted to Phuket Town, which is now standards such as Hotel California, proving popular with a new generation Country Roads and Wonderwall. of Thai tourists lured there by govern- From all this it will be seen that ment subsidies. It also has a number of Phuket’s music scene is actually be- established Thai music bars around the coming more creatively vibrant, being Seahorse traffic circle catering to local now less dominated by professional Thais. Phuket Town too has always had musicians. Amateurs can choose to a faithful community of foreign expats play what they want, and are now keen to hear or play live music. Most of quickly filling the musical void that us are still here. COVID created. This process is driven Over the next few months, I will Andy and his cigar box guitar. by the financial squeeze on businesses tell you more about developments in which don’t have the money to pay Phuket’s music scene, about the places newer music venues springing up all Don’t miss tiny 46 Guesthouse in the bands. and personalities involved. Happily, this around the walking street area. The middle of Thalang Rd. There you will To sum up, Phuket Town is now fast island’s musical life is now recovering Column in Takuapa Rd to the south is find local DJs playing Electronic Dance becoming a more creative and diverse after the initial lockdown, but it is dif- a Thai bar, playing punchy Thai bal- Music on Sundays. There you can hear place musically, which can only be a ferent from that which we saw before. lads nightly. Next door is the intimate the ever-creative Jason Winder of local good thing. I’ll tell you more about it Take Phuket Town for example: Bebop Bar, perfect if you want to enjoy radio fame remixing ’70s rock classics over the weeks to come and my own ef- Before the Sunday night Lard Yai some cool jazz after a romantic din- with modern syncopated drum beats. forts to encourage it. Walking Street project started on ner. A few doors away, Michael’s Bar Bands from the Pastel Bar and solo art- For now, maybe I’ll see you soon in Thalang Rd a few years ago, there were (now renamed Michelangelo’s Lounge ists sometimes perform there too. one of Phuket Town’s new or long-es- already long-established live music ven- Bar) is under the new and dynamic Take a walk up Thalang Rd’s Soi tablished live music venues. You might ues nearby, such as the Rockin’ Angels management of my good friend Don Romanee to the 346 Guesthouse on a even find me there knocking out a song Blues Bar, Timber Hut and Music Mat- Mangiameli. At my suggestion, he has Sunday night and you will probably or two. ters Jazz Club. I’m pleased to say they just started a 5pm to midnight Sunday hear Thai bands like The Aod Blues But remember if you do, like many have all survived the lockdown. jam. It is already proving hugely popu- Band, Mary Jane or The Vanguard of us now, I’m only doing it for fun. So However, we now see a number of lar with local jazz musicians. playing Thai and Western songs. They please….. buy me a beverage!

Thai action star Tony Jaa (right) joins Milla Jovovich on her quest in Monster Hunter. Image: IMDB Tony Jaa, the Monster Hunter hile a film is often judged by the As Artemis’ crew drop like flies, she way that it is received during the suddenly finds her only help can come Awards season, sometimes all from a weather-beaten warrior known you really want to do is sit down, only as The Hunter (Tony Jaa – Ong- turnW your brain off and watch something Bak). The only problem is that while dumb yet enjoyable. Enter films like they rely on each for survival they also Monster Hunter. don’t trust each other. Based on the popular video game Chances are if you have enjoyed what franchise Monster Hunter sees director Anderson has done with Resident Evil Paul WS Anderson (Alien vs Predator) over the years then you will also enjoy once again reunited with his real-life Monster Hunter. The film is pretty much wife Milla Jovovich (The Fifth Element) action sequence after action sequence after the duo made four Resident Evil yet somehow it also makes The Hunter movies together. and Artemis likeable characters. For me The storyline is basic. Jovovich the film’s biggest weakness was that it plays Lt Artemis, a strong but caring didn’t allow us long enough in the world soldier who is well-respected by her col- that it had set up. leagues. While on a mission looking for If you are looking for a film that will the missing Beta team, they suddenly keep you entertained without making find themselves stuck inside a power- you think these holidays then Monster ful storm that somehow pushes them Hunter is the film for you. Monster through a gateway to another dimen- Hunter is far from the perfect film but sion where the likes of the Admiral (Ron is certainly enjoyable for those of us who Perlman – Hellboy) are stuck in an ever- like action films. lasting race to survive as they hunted by 3/5 Stars. Monster Hunter is current- other-worldly creatures. ly screening in Phuket. David Griffiths

thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021 COMMUNITY 9 Making the cut Soi Dog Foundation celebrates half-a-million sterilisations Established in Phuket by three re- The Phuket News [email protected] tirees determined to end the suffering of street dogs and cats, Soi Dog now oi Dog Foundation has shared runs the largest sterilisation initia- the incredible news that it has tive in the world, known as its CNVR surpassed half-a-million dogs (Catch, Neuter, Vaccinate, Return) and cats neutered and vac- programme. An incalculable number cinated since its founding in of puppies and kittens have been saved 2003 – more than any other from short and painful lives of suf- organisation in the world. fering on the streets as a result of the The foundation marked the programme. Phuket’s Soi Dog Foundation has passed the historic milestone of momentous milestone with a short Phuket is Soi Dog’s best example of conducting more than 500,000 sterilisations. Photo: Soi Dog Foundation filmS that looks at the past, present and the effectiveness of CNVR; the contin- future of its large-scale sterilisation uation of the programme on the island Thailand, in Asia and the rest of the With an estimated 10-12 million and vaccination programme. The film over the past 17 years has seen the world is by sterilisation – large-scale street dogs across the country, this is features appearances from a host of street dog population reduced by over sterilisation – and education,” explains only the beginning of a long road for celebrity supporters, including Ricky 90% and only one confirmed case of ra- co-founder and president of Soi Dog Soi Dog. However, plans are already in Gervais, Dame Judi Dench and Peter bies reported. The welfare of the dogs Foundation International John Dalley place to employ a further two mobile Egan. that remain there has also markedly in the celebratory video. teams in southern Thailand and sup- improved, with severely sick, skeletal Reflecting on the enormous growth port a sterilisation project in Chiang street dogs largely a sight of the past. of Soi Dog’s CNVR programme, he Mai next year. Despite the scale of the With the situation on the island adds, “In the beginning it was slow. In task ahead, the foundation remains under control, and a maintenance the last four months of 2003 – which confident that, with the continued programme in place, Soi Dog was able is when we started – and the whole of support of its donors in Thailand and to expand into Bangkok in 2015 and 2004, we managed to achieve just over around the world, it can bring an end later into other provinces too. With the 1,400 sterilisations. A far cry from to- to the suffering of companion animals help of six mobile teams in the capital day, but you have to start somewhere. once and for all. and two more in a changing rota of “Today, of course, things have “Thank you so much for everything southern provinces, the foundation is changed. We’ve now sterilised 500,000 you do for us,” says John in closing. currently able to neuter and vaccinate since we started. The amazing thing “I often say we can only do as much over 10,000 animals a month. about that, I think, is that nearly as the funds we receive, and you’ve “I firmly believe that the only way 250,000 of those have happened in the enabled us to do this. It’s an amazing we can control stray dogs here in last two years alone.” achievement. Thank you.”

@thephuketnews 10 TIME OUT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York Across 59. They can run wild 29. Sounds of 1. Reunion attendee 63. Refrain from hesitation 5. Visibility reducer 66. Owner’s 30. “Let’s Get It On” 1. Which sportsman was nicknamed ‘The Sultan of Swat’? 9. Illuminate acquisition singer 2. In which American city did Ronald Reagan survive an 14. List heading 67. Place to find 32. Massage assassination attempt in 1981? 15. Inside stubble 33. “Clair de lune” 16. Short straw drawer 68. Sing like Bing key 3. What is the literal translation of the Latin word ‘trivia’? 17. Comes to the 69. OK city 34. Parcels 4. Which city was the first in the world to have a population rescue 70. Compliment 35. Quarterback ___ of over one million? 18. Leave a mark on 71. Egypt’s capital 37. Uncertainties 19. Had something 72. Bobbsey, Grey 38. Fair 5. Could the phonograph, invented by Thomas Edison in 20. Stephen King novel and Woods 41. 6-pointers 1877, record sound as well as play it? that was made into 73. Fish-eating duck 42. Above to a bard Answers below, centre a film 43. Letter-shaped 23. Strange sounding Down opening lake 1. Somewhat 48. Wide-sleeved 24. Send 2. French river robe Easy 25. Important digits on 3. Milk dispenser 49. Palindromic girl’s SUDOKU an I.R.S. form 4. Inlay name 28. Drink all at once 5. Not fitting a 51. Fox hunters cry 31. “Fool’s” gold category, briefly 54. “Candy is dandy 33. Old German 6. Clive Cussler’s ...” writer currency ‘’___ Gold’’ 55. Historic Tuscan 36. Massenet opera 7. Sports figures city 39. Insurer for military 8. Medieval light 57. Mediocre personnel 9. One of the Seven 58. Malicious 40. Armchair Dwarfs 59. Aeronautical quarterback’s 10. Icy glaze engineer hobby 11. Philosopher Sikorsky Solutions to last week’s puzzles: 44. Served up a suffix 60. Teutonic whopper 12. Born name turndown 45. Letters before tees 13. Coastal eagle 61. Reckons up 46. Bandleader Brown 21. Conductor Zubin 62. Winter 47. Chilly US state 22. Kind of boot precipitation 50. Paris airport 25. Rope fiber 63. Communication 52. “Naughty!” 26. Unoriginal regulator 53. Wedding exchange 27. Actress Patricia 64. ___ pro nobis

56. ___ and aahs et al. 65. Profit, abbr. AnswersYes 5) Rome; 4) to roads; this Three 3) week’s DC; PopWashington 2) Quiz:Ruth; Babe 1)

This week GOT YOUR ISLAND VIEW in history NUMBER Jan 8, 1964 President Lyndon B. Johnson declares a “War on Poverty” in 6 the United States. people in the US die from alcohol poisoning every day. 88 percent of New Year’s resolutions fail. Steve Jobs and the iPhone 1. Photo: AFP Jan 9, 2007 Apple CEO Steve Jobs introduces 250 the original iPhone at a Macworld percent is how much using a keynote in San Francisco. warm air dryer after washing your hands can increase the bacterial count on your hands. Jan 10, 1927 Fritz Lang’s futuristic film Me- tropolis is released in Germany. 666 Jan 11, 1527 is the sum of all the numbers on a First recorded lottery in England. roulette wheel. Jan 12, 1967 Dr James Bedford becomes the first person to be cryonically 370,000 preserved with intent of future tons of wood are burned each resuscitation. year in pizza ovens in São Paulo, Brazil, becoming a surprisingly significant source of pollution. Jan 13, 2012 The passenger cruise ship Costa Concordia sinks off the coast of Italy. There are 32 confirmed 62.5 deaths. The captain is later jailed for 16 years for negligence. trillion Jan 14, 1960 US dollars per gram is how The Reserve Bank of Australia, much antimatter costs, the most Sunflower.Photo: Celina Manaois the country’s central bank and expensive material on the planet. Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket? banknote issuing authority, is Source: Uberfacts Email it to [email protected] established. Source: Wikipedia

thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021 CLASSIFIEDS 11

The Phuket News Trades & Services @thephuketnews

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@thephuketnews 12 EVENTS & CLASSIFIEDS THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021

8 29 FRI JAN FRI JAN DAILY EVENT UPDAT ES

Sunday Brunch at Pine Beach Bar ON Mussels night @ Shakers Try exciting new items including organic truffle 1.2kg mussels served with French fries, your choice, poached egg, lobster house made pasta and unagi your style: natural, marnière, Provençale, garlic don. Enjoy complimentary use of pool and beach Australia Day and cream or Thai style. Reservations recom- facilities before and after your brunch with a bottle mended B295 P/P. [email protected] of sparkling, a selection of delicious dishes, funky - Phuket Sundowners 081 891 4381. tunes of our DJ and beach activities. Intercontinental AustCham Thailand and the Australian Consulate Phuket Resort, Kamala, 076 629 999. General Phuket, in collaboration with Australian Alumni, British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT), Belgian-Luxembourg/Thai Chamber of Com- merce, CanCham Thailand, Franco-Thai Chamber of 9 Commerce (FTCC), German-Thai Chamber of Com- JAN 11 merce (GTCC) and the Netherlands-Thai Chamber of SAT JAN Commerce (NTCC), is delighted to invite you to join MON us for “Australia Day Phuket Sundowners” at Renais- sance Phuket Resort & Spa, on Friday 29 January 2021, from 18.00-21.00 hrs. A celebration of all things Australian, join us for your favourite Australian food & beverages, and welcome in the New Year as the first business networking event of 2021! Cost: 500 THB for AustCham members, partner Chambers’ members, and Australian Alumni Members*, 900 THB for non- members. *For registration code for Australian Alumni members, please contact AustCham team at 02 109 9616 or email to [email protected]

PROPERTY FOR SALE

All you can eat BBQ night New Modern Villa 5 Mins Ao Po 6pm – 11pm: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, All you can eat BBQ Ribs night Modern Pool Villa 200 SQM. Garden 500 SQM. 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Close security. Perma- Prawns and Squid, Salad buffet, Choice of potatoes 6pm – 11pm: All you can eat BBQ Ribs served nent staff. UWCT- BIS. Long terme lease 49000 Bath/ Month. Wifi/ TV.SAT. Google maps: DELTA and sauces, bread, buns and garlic bread. Reservation with salad buffet, potato salad & choice of sauces. PHUKET Contact owner( Alain): [email protected] Line: alainphuket Villa Coconut 57/10 Moo3 recommended. B395 P/P. [email protected] Reservation recommended. 295 baht P/P. shaker- Soi Bhanbangphea, T.Paklok, A. Thalang, Phuket 83110 Thailand, [email protected], 0818935270 081 891 4381. [email protected], 081 891 4381. PROPERTY FOR RENT 10 PROPERTY FOR SALE Fantastic Sea View JAN Sea View condo 70 Sq.m. Swimming pool, fitness, car parking, 1 bed, 1big living room + kitchen. Big SUN balcony. 1.6 km. from Kata beach. [email protected] , 080 468 8228‬ (Napa).

House for Rent House for Rent @ Burasiri Kohkaew 149 sqm. 3 bedrooms + 3 bathrooms + 2 carpark. Fully Furnished + Kitchen + washing machine. Rental rate 35,000thb Facilities: Swimming Pool + Fitness + Security. [email protected], 0986516428, Khun Ying.

PROPERTY FOR RENT

All you can eat Beautiful Phuket condo Sunday Roast Buffet with a view of the islands Beef, Pork and Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, Very close to Ao Por Pier and Ao Por Grand Marina. 2 HALF PRICE CONDO rooms 132 m / 2 with private terrace, 22m pool, 2 bath, air fried mushrooms, grilled tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding – con, security service, good shopping, private parking and LAGUNA AREA roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes – gravy, mushroom sunrise over the islands every morning. Fully furnished. 200m to Bangtao,2 pools, Jacuzzi, sau- sauce, mint sauce. Reservations recommended. B350 P/P. Direct From Owner at only B3.6M, jensclausen@yahoo. na, gym, BBQ, 140 sqm. Free: bikes, [email protected] 081 891 4381. de +66 092-854692. +49 176 32658856 electric scooters, drinking water, coco- nuts, 3TVs, Netflix, 200TV channels. HALF PRICE 076 324404 phuket@ casuarinashores.co

thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021 ISLAND SCENE 13

Ai, Laurence, Sumi & Sofie Connie, Matt & Anthony

Bill, Sumi & George Scot, Donna & Lyndon OPENING NIGHT OF ‘BENIHANA THE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE’ Dec 16, 2020 - There ain’t no party like a Benihana party! A night full of fire, fun, and divine food! We are thrilled to have been invited to the opening of the 4th Benihana in Thailand at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, Mai Khao. It’s not just a meal, it’s an experience.

ASIA MICE PLANNER – APPRECIATION AND CHARITY PARTY Asian MICE Planner and the Malaysian Club of Thailand and the Malaysian & Thai Friends Group from Bangkok held their annual appreciation and charity event on Dec 20, 2020 at The Secret Cliff Hotel to raise much needed funds in support of Child-Watch Phuket Foundation.

@thephuketnews 14 SPORT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021 COVID threatened Aussie GP waits for final decision FORMULA ONE

AFP Hamilton is F1’s sixth knight. Photo: AFP final call on staging the Australian Grand Prix will be made in the A “coming weeks”, organisers said Arise, Sir Lewis! on Tuesday (Jan 5) following reports it The Mercedes driver could be postponed over strict travel FOOTBALL has become an outspoken restrictions and the emergence of a new supporter of equality, diversity strain of COVID-19. LEWIS HAMILTON and the environment this Website autosport.com said the A final decision on has been knighted in Britain’s year and made several strong Melbourne-based race, which is due to staging the Australian traditional New Year Honours human rights statements kick off the new season on March 21, Grand Prix will be list after equalling Michael related to democracy and would likely be pushed back to later in made in the coming Schumacher’s record of seven racism. the year, with Bahrain poised to open weeks. Photo: AFP Formula One world titles. Hamilton now becomes the 2021 calendar on March 28. The list recognises Formula 1’s sixth knight It pointed to Australia’s tough “Further detail will be provided upon tennis players are set to arrive in Melbourne outstanding achievements after Sir Stirling Moss, Sir coronavirus restrictions, which require finalisation of arrangements with all parties from January 15 for 14 days’ quarantine in various fields including Jackie Stewart, Australia’s international travellers to quarantine for in the coming weeks.” before the Australian Open. showbusiness, sport and Sir Jack Brabham, and the two weeks, as posing significant logistical Construction around the temporary After months of wrangling, authorities politics, as well as the co-founders of Williams Sir and financial obstacles. Albert Park circuit is yet to start and tickets allowed them to train for five hours a day contributions of a larger Frank Williams and Sir Patrick Many of Formula One’s teams are are not currently on sale. in a bio-secure bubble, shuttled between number of everyday citizens. Head. also based in England where cases are The Australian race, the traditional designated hotels and Melbourne Park, Hamilton, 35, surpassed “Lewis is one of the very surging, spurred by a more infectious new season curtain-raiser, was called off last where the tournament is held. Schumacher’s record number greatest racing drivers of all variant, further complicating matters. year just hours before the first practice Australia has fared much better than of career race wins during a time and the most successful Australian organisers said they were session after a McLaren team member many other nations in dealing with the virus stellar season in 2020 that British sportsperson of his working through the issues. tested positive, with drivers scrambling following swift action to close its borders to was shortened due to the era,” said Mercedes F1 team “The Australian Grand Prix to leave the country. the world and carry out widespread testing. coronavirus pandemic. principal and CEO Toto Wolff. Corporation continues to work closely The pandemic threw the season into Life had been returning to relative A group of British “The UK can be very with the Victorian (state) government and chaos and racing only started in Austria normality around the country before a lawmakers last month called proud to have a champion Formula 1 on conditions and arrangements in July, with the Melbourne event not new cluster emerged in Sydney last month. on Prime Minister Boris and ambassador of the calibre relating to the staging of the Australian rescheduled. It has since spread to neighbouring Johnson to recommend the of Sir Lewis Hamilton,” he Grand Prix in Melbourne in 2021,” they Despite concern about the fate of this Victoria, forcing the closure of some driver for a knighthood. added. AFP said in a brief statement. year’s race, hundreds of the world’s top state borders

India cricketers negative after bubble ‘breach’ CRICKET

INDIA’S TEAM AND support staff all tested negative to COVID-19 after five players apparently breached their bio-security bubble, officials said Monday India’s cricket team have all tested (Jan 4), as capacity at the negative for COVID-19. Photo: AFP Sydney Cricket Ground was slashed over coronavirus from the broader Indian They will play in front concerns. squad, with the entire tour of a 25% capacity crowd of The quintet – Rohit party tested last Sunday. around 10,000 after it was Sharma, Rishabh Pant, The Indian cricket board, slashed from 50% following Shubman Gill, Prithvi which has not said whether a backlash on social media Shaw and Navdeep Saini – the five will be punished, and from some experts, were filmed dining inside issued a brief statement on given the COVID situation a Melbourne restaurant on Monday giving them the in the city. New Year’s Day. all-clear for COVID-19. Tony Shepherd, head of The Australian state “Playing members of Venues NSW which manages of Victoria, of which the Indian cricket team and the stadium, said significant Melbourne is the capital, support staff underwent a test measures had been taken to is battling to stem a cluster for COVID-19 on January 3, ensure the safety of fans. of virus cases tied to a wider 2021. All tests have returned “There are extensive outbreak in neighbouring negative results,” it said. protocols being enacted for New South Wales. Australia’s team and staff the upcoming Test, including In response, authorities were also tested and they too increased cleaning, customer require restaurant-goers to came back negative. service and security staff, dine outdoors and maintain Both teams headed to along with dedicated social social distancing. Sydney on Monday for the distancing marshals,” he said. While the five were al- third Test, which was to start The fourth and final Test lowed to continue training, yesterday (Jan 7), with the is in Brisbane next week. they were told to stay apart four-Test series level at 1-1. AFP

thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021 SPORT 15 Premier League plays on under new lockdown FOOTBALL

The Phuket News [email protected]

remier League football will be allowed to continue despite new Games have been postponed for P January. Photo: Bangkok Post national lockdown restrictions announced by the British government on Monday (Jan 4), reports AFP. Thai League falls Nearly 56 million people in England returned to a full coronavirus lockdown to COVID – again on Tuesday, possibly until “We always cooperate with mid-February, to try to cut FOOTBALL the government to help prevent spiralling infection rates, the spread of COVID-19,” Prime Minister Boris Johnson ALL THAI LEAGUE 1 he said. said in a televised address. matches scheduled for this They also agreed that But a list of exemptions month have been postponed the competitions could not published by the UK government Bruno Fernandes dispatches his penalty due to the COVID-19 be scrapped as the involved allowed “elite sportspeople to seal the 2-1 win against Aston Villa pandemic, the Football parties could face heavy fines (and their coaches if necessary, on New Year’s Day. Photo: AFP Association of Thailand (FAT) from sponsors, he said. or parents/guardians if they announced on Monday (Jan 4). “We expect the season to are under 18) – or those on an Ings grabbing the crucial goal. Spurs brushed aside Leeds pressure on Blues manager Following a new surge end in April,” Mr Korrawee official elite sports pathway – to It means the Reds now United 3-0 on Saturday with Frank Lampard whose side in coronavirus cases, said. compete and train”. share top spot on 33 points the Harry Kane-Son Heung have now only collected four the government’s Centre When the situation One key point in deter- with bitter rivals Manchester Min partnership once again points from six matches. for COVID-19 Situation becomes better and football mining whether a sporting United who started the New proving the difference as the At the bottom, Sheffield Administration (CCSA) has is ready to return, the FAT will competition can go ahead will Year in fine fashion after Korean registered his 100th United’s woeful season issued several restrictions over inform clubs at least five days be if it has, as the Premier defeating Aston Villa 2-1 goal for the club. continued as they were the past few days to contain the before resumption, he said. League does, a testing regime last Friday courtesy of goals It was the 13th time the soundly beaten 0-2 at Crystal spread of the deadly disease. If it is too difficult for and the provision of bio-secure from Anthony Martial and a Spurs pair have combined Palace and West Brom show Executives of the FAT and the leagues to restart on a bubbles in place. contentious Bruno Fernandes for a goal this season, equal no signs of being revitalised Thai League Co held a meet- home-and-away basis, then Matches, however, will penalty. to the number achieved in under Sam Allardyce as ing with clubs on Monday to the FAT may organise the continue to be played behind Leicester City continued an entire season by Alan they were humbled 0-4 by a discuss the situation. remaining games in ‘bubbles’ closed doors. their fine form with a 2-1 win Shearer and Chris Sutton resurgent Arsenal at a snowy They decided to put off to avoid travel restrictions, Mr at Newcastle which kept them for Blackburn Rovers in Hawthorns stadium. all domestic games until Korrawee said. TIGHT AT THE TOP in third place, just a point their title-winning season It meant the Baggies have the end of this month as the Last year, the domestic On the pitch, Liverpool failed behind the joint leaders. of 1994-95. conceded 12 goals in their last government’s new directives leagues were suspended for to extend their lead at the top Tottenham, Manchester Manchester City look three home games suggesting would make it difficult to hold several months due to the of the table after a 0-1 loss to City, Southampton and Everton like they are rediscovering a long, cold winter ahead football matches, said Thai COVID-19 outbreak before Southampton on Monday with all sit behind the Foxes on 29 their form as they eased past in their attempt to beat the League co-acting chairman they resumed in September. their former marksman Danny points. Chelsea 3-1, heaping further dreaded drop. Korrawee Pritsananantakul. Bangkok Post

@thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021

[email protected] Knighthood for F1 champ Sport Lewis > p14 HOWZAT! ASIA SELECT XI WIN NEW YEAR OPENER AT THE ACG

Asia select XI’s Imtiyaz Mushtaq eyes up a drive on his way to 58 and victory against a ROW select XI at the ACG last Sunday (Jan 3). Photo: Neil Quail

as rivals came together in Raju (9) was ousted by a one short of a half-century in for drinks on almost an 2 for 45) and Sami Pir (3 for CRICKET a traditional annual event towering, one-handed catch on 49 and Sami Pir’s tigerish identical score-line as their 28, and 24).

Neil Quail held at the island’s home of by Michael Flowers, with 24 not out at the tail-end of Asia opponents at 123 for 2 cricket. the score on 46. the innings boosted the Asia after 15 overs. COMING UP AT THE huket’s 2021 cricket Asia captain Shivam Mushtaq hit 58 runs off score to 258 all out, just one After the break, a tiring ACG (JAN 5 – 10) calendar was kick- Bhattacharaya elected to 49 balls before Dom Judge over short of the full 35. Ninan fell for 73 and, despite Tuesday: Vagabonds Rugby Pstarted last Sunday bat having won the toss, found an edge for Anthony Jeremy Bootsy and valiant efforts by Van Blerk training (5 – 7pm) (Jan 3) with an Asia select sending Seemant Raju and Van Blerk to take behind Hamilton opened the batting and Curt Livermore, the run Wednesday: Junior Football XI taking on a Rest of the Imtiyaz Mushtaq out to open the stumps in the 14th over. for ROW but by the sixth chase was too steep and Asia training (4 – 6pm) & Senior World (ROW) select XI in the morning’s proceedings. Joe Ninan’s pace and over, both batsmen had ultimately claimed victory Cricket training a 35-over match at the Alan Mushtaq’s batting in the swing bowled Ali Khan for succumbed to the Asia attack by 23 runs. Thursday: Touch Rugby Cooke Ground (ACG). second over returned an 20 before Flowers caught having scored 15 runs each. Man-of-the-match went to training (5 – 7pm) Chosen from several local early advantage to Asia, Sameer Khan just short of A strong partnership ROW’s Joe Ninan for his 73, Friday: Junior & Senior teams, players whom would with 18 coming off Stuart the boundary for 29. between Ninan and Flowers and 2 for 39, with mentions Cricket training (4 – 6pm) normally face each other Hamilton’s spin attack before Bhanu Pratap fell just then ensured ROW went to Imtiyaz Mushtaq (58, and Sunday: Cricket from 10am

COVID forces star shuttlers from Thai triple-header departure for Thailand. An as- withdrawn from the three premier BADMINTON sociation official confirmed that tournaments in Bangkok this month. none of the other 22 Japan players The news came after it was THE NEWS THAT SEVERAL tested positive, but said the entire confirmed all Chinese domiciled leading players have withdrawn team would withdraw nonetheless. players will not be participating after testing positive for COVID-19 Later the same day, the due to a travel ban enforced in their has rocked three major upcoming Badminton Association of Indonesia homeland. tournaments based in Thailand. announced that Kevin Sanjaya The men’s competition will now The Yonex Thailand Open (Jan Sukamuljo, the top-ranked player be led by No.2 Chou Tien-chen of 12-17), the Toyota Thailand Open in the men’s doubles, had tested Taiwan, No.3 Anders Antonsen and (Jan 19-24) and the HSBC BWF positive for COVID-19. No.4 Viktor Axelsen of Denmark World Tour Finals (Jan 27-31) will “Based on the last test that Kevin while No.1 Tai Tzu-ying of Taiwan, all be staged in the capital. ran on December 31, 2020, the No.5 Ratchanok Intanon of Thailand, On Monday (Jan 4), the Nippon PCR swab test result was positive,” and No.6 Carolina Marin of Spain Badminton Association of Japan Kento Momota will miss all three Thailand Octaviani, a doctor at the PBSI remain as the top names in the confirmed that world number one based championships this month. Photo: AFP National Training Center, was women’s field. ranked player Kento Momota tested quoted as saying by the Indonesian The first two events, both Super positive for coronavirus which “Momota has tested positive for association official told AFP. media. 1000 tournaments, offer a total purse prompted not only his withdrawal the coronavirus, and the association National broadcaster NHK said As a result, Sukamuljo and his of US$1 million (B30mn) each, while but that of the entire Japanese has decided not to send any players, Momota tested positive at Narita partner Marcus Gideon, the current the 2020 season finale has a total playing squad. including Momota, to Thailand,” an airport ahead of the Japan team’s world No.1 men’s doubles pair, have prize fund of $1.5mn. AFP

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