The Phuket News August 15, 2025

CHARGES PRESSED OVER ILLEGAL KAMALA DEVELOPMENT > PAGE 3

SKYWALK PROJECT FACES DELAYS AS CONTRACT DEADLINE PASSES

Natnaree Likidwatanasakun reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO) President Rewat Areerob has confirmed that the contract for the B193.7 million Surin Beach Glass Balcony project will expire today (Aug 15) – with construction still incomplete.

Mr Rewat explained to The Phuket News that flaws in the project, including some design errors, had forced changes that

delayed progress. The 18-month contract was awarded in late 2023 to Phisit Technology Co Ltd for the landmark skywalk-style attraction at Laem Ta Ma in Cherng Talay.

The Surin Beach project is a centrepiece in the PPAO’s plan to attract more Thai and foreign tourists to Phuket. It features two glass-bottomed observation decks, each more than 33 metres long, and a three-storey viewing tower offering sweeping views over the Andaman Sea.

The site, built on nine rai

(14,400sqm) of public land, will also include landscaped walkways, activity areas, a service building and public facilities. The design blends the island’s marine vistas with elements of Phuket’s traditional way of life.

MORE TIME, PLEASE

Mr Rewat stressed that under PPAO regulations, he cannot approve a contract extension himself. “Our contract for the Surin Beach glass balcony construction project expires on the 15th of this month. It’s

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

A handful of hope on the island’s shores

nearing its expiration date, but there are some flaws in the project itself, requiring an extension,” he said.

“Under the authority of the PPAO, we can’t extend the time ourselves or take the liberty of doing so without first submitting it to the Comptroller General’s Department. They will take 32 days to review and decide whether to grant it. I have no authority to grant or refuse the extension.”

He emphasised that the delays were not entirely the contractor’s fault…

Tourism revenue holding steady for now > p6

Skywalk hits snag

Continued from page 1

…“They pointed out the problems, some design errors, and it took time to fix them. Then they requested an extension to complete the project. But I didn’t dare grant or approve the extension myself. I was afraid that if I helped them, I would definitely be investigated by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC),” he explained.

PAST MISTAKES

Mr Rewat said he was determined to avoid mistakes made in other projects, citing a high-profile corruption case as a cautionary example.

“The case of Mr Thaworn Chirapattanasophon, the Phuket Town Deputy Mayor, sentenced to four years in jail for corruption over a Bang Yai Canal construction project,” he said.

“He granted a contract extension without any review or favouring the company for the Phuket City Cultural Canal Development Project. Ultimately, the Deputy Mayor was sentenced to four years in prison. This kind of incident I do not want to happen to me.”

Mr Rewat said the safest course was to let the ComptrollerGeneral decide. “If they allow it, they can grant it. But if they don’t, the company will have to pay the PPAO a B10mn security deposit.”

If the extension is denied, the contractor’s performance guarantee of nearly B10mn will be forfeited. “If they don’t take responsibility, that money will be seized,” Mr Rewat said.

The company is reportedly eager to finish the project, but the completion date will depend on the terms of any approved extension. “If they can extend, how long it will take depends on the company. They have to complete the project quickly. I can’t say when it will be finished,” he added.

LOOKING HIGH IN RAWAI

Meanwhile, the PPAO’s second major landmark project – the Khao Daeng Glass Bridge in Rawai – remains in the study and planning stage. Planned for a site

near the Rawai Football Field, the structure is expected to become another major tourist attraction offering panoramic coastal views.

Mr Rewat said the Rawai project will cost “about B200mn”, dismissing recent government reports suggesting a B300mn budget. “It will cost around the same as the Surin skywalk,” he said.

However, before breaking ground in Rawai, the PPAO wants to assess the Surin project’s performance and public reception. “The Khao Daeng Glass Bridge hasn’t even been built yet. There’s planning, a project study, a budget, and meetings. But in the end, we sat down to this meeting to see how successful the Surin Glass Balcony project is and how effective it has been,” he said.

“Before we build in Rawai, we still need to ask the public about their needs and listen to their opinions. So, we’re considering using the Surin Beach glass balcony project as a model and seeing how successful it is.”

Public hearings on the Khao Daeng Glass Bridge project are expected before any construction begins. Mr Rewat has said repeatedly that feedback from residents will be critical in shaping the final design and scope.

The bridge aims to serve as both a tourist draw and a symbol of Phuket’s growing range of coastal attractions. Much like the Surin balcony, it will be marketed as a “check-in” destination for visitors seeking views of the island’s seascapes.

EYES ON SURIN

For now, attention remains on Surin Beach. While officials and contractors alike want to see the project finished and open to the public, the decision rests with the Comptroller-General’s Department.

Mr Rewat acknowledged that delays can frustrate both the public and the project team, but stressed that following proper procedures protects the integrity of the PPAO and its projects.

“We want these to be signature attractions for Phuket,” he said. “But we have to do things the right way. That means no shortcuts, no approvals without proper review.”

Whether the Surin Beach Glass Balcony becomes Phuket’s newest must-visit landmark later this year or slips into 2026 depends on the outcome of the extension review. For the Khao Daeng Glass Bridge, its start date may hinge on how Surin performs once it finally opens.

In the meantime, Mr Rewat said that the PPAO continues to promote its skywalk vision as part of a wider effort to diversify Phuket’s tourism offering beyond its beaches. If successful, these attractions could help cement the island’s place as a leading destination for both Thai and international travellers – offering views that, quite literally, put visitors on top of the world.

Young leaders educated on ‘special autonomy’

LEADING PHUKET BUSIness figures this week launched the second generation of the ‘Young Public and Private Collaboration’(YPC) programme, aimed at developing a new wave of leaders to help steer the province toward sustainable development as a special local administrative region.

The programme was held Aug 6-8 at the A2 Pool Resort Phuket in Ratsada under the theme, ‘The Role of the New Generation and the Direction of Phuket’s Development as a Special Local Administrative Region.’

Phuket Vice Governor Suwit Phansengiam presided over the opening ceremony, emphasising the need to involve talented young people in shaping the province’s future governance model.

Also present were key business figures Thipawan Rapuephon (President, Phuket Young Entrepreneurs Chamber of Commerce), Thanusak Phuengdet (President, Andaman Chamber of Commerce), Kongsak Khoopongsakorn (President, Phuket Chamber of Commerce), Montawee Hongyok (President, Phuket branch of the Federation of Thai Industries),and Rangsiman Kingkaew (President, Phuket branch of the Tourism Industry Council).

and environmental goals, explained an official report of the workshops.

Over the three days, participants took part in workshops, policy forums and networking events. The programme aimed to strengthen understanding of local governance, inspire innovative thinking and foster collaborations that can balance economic, social

Vice Governor Suwit emphasised that developing Phuket’s human capital is as crucial as infrastructure investment. He expressed confidence that the participants will emerge as a collaborative and forwardthinking force, advancing the vision of Phuket as a “smart tourism city in a special administrative area” that embodies high quality of life and environmental stewardship.

The YPC programme this year comes as Phuket MP Somchart Techathavorncharoen leads a campaign to gather 10,000 signatures ‒ the minimum threshold to submit a draft law to Parliament.

The draft ‘Phuket Metropolis Act’ would allow Phuket to elect its own governor and enable local control over permits and infrastructure, aiming to break central government bottlenecks that have delayed development projects such as the light rail.

MP Somchart stressed that local governance increases accountability and empowers citizens ‒ “If there is any province that reflects the deformity... it’s Phuket,” he said.

Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat has voiced his support for granting Phuket

special administrative status akin to Bangkok.

He highlighted the mismatch between tourist-driven demand and inadequate government funding ‒ Phuket brought in nearly B498 billion from 13.24 million tourists in 2024, yet its annual development budget was only B169 million, based on a registered population of 400,000, despite actual residents and visitors far exceeding that number.

Issues identified include water shortages, waste management, healthcare strain and long delays for infrastructure projects.

Governor Sophon proposed keeping up to 90% of tourismrelated revenue locally to fasttrack development and gave examples like local light rail.

The Phuket News

Surf danger plagues beaches

Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

Drowning incidents and a dramatic rescue on Phuket’s west coast beaches have raised fresh concerns over swimmer safety during the current southwest monsoon season, underscoring the unpredictable and often dangerous conditions facing both tourists and locals.

In a tragic case at Kata Beach onAug 7, a 10-year-old Canadian girl drowned after being swept away by strong waves while swimming with her family. The incident was reported to Karon Police at around 5:30pm via the station’s Public Assistance Network Line. Deputy Inspector (Investigation) Lt Col Phirawat Yodtor confirmed that rescue workers, lifeguards, and divers from the Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation, as well as officers from the Tourist Assistance Centre, responded immediately.

The search for the girl lasted over three hours, concluding at 7:50pm when her body was found washed ashore. She was pronounced dead at the scene and later transferred to Vachira Phuket Hospital for a forensic examination to determine the cause of death. Police said the girl

was holidaying in Phuket with her parents and siblings, having arrived from Malaysia just one day earlier.

Two days later, on Aug 9, another drowning claimed the life of an unidentified man at Kalim Beach. Patong Police received a report of a missing swimmer at 12:06pm and promptly dispatched rescue teams, including divers from the Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation’s Patong branch, to the scene.

The man’s body was recovered around 2pm, washed ashore by waves. He was pronounced dead at the scene and taken ashore for examination.

Forensic doctors from Vachira Phuket Hospital confirmed that the man remains unidentified despite police efforts to find witnesses or anyone who recognised him. Described as

thin, approximately 165cm tall, and dark-skinned, he had distinctive tattoos on both shoulders and upper arms.

Local resident Sakda Mat-Yuyen, who was present at the beach, said he saw the man struggling in the strong waves before being swept away and immediately alerted others to call for help. Despite questioning locals and beachgoers, police have been unable to identify the deceased. His body is now undergoing a post-mortem to confirm the cause of death.

The same week, Kamala Police and forensic officials responded to the discovery of the body of an 80-year-old Russian woman washed up on Kamala Beach near Ratchaprachanukroh School. Responding at around 6:30pm, officers, assisted by rescue workers from the Kamala

Kamala land occupier charged over illegal clearing, excavation

AUTHORITIES

HAVE filed charges against the occupier of a government land site in Kamala for illegal excavation activities, raising concerns about potential flooding and landslides in the area.

The site, located in Moo 6, Kamala, is registered under a NorSor 4 Jor land possession document. However, Prawee Rattana, Chief Administrative Officer (Palad) of Kamala Tambon Administrative Organisation (OrBorTor), confirmed to The Phuket News that no permit had been granted for any land modification or excavation on the property.

“Kathu District Office and Kamala OrBorTor jointly submitted a formal complaint to Kamala Police to pursue legal action against the landowner for unauthorised excavation and landfilling,” Mr Prawee said.

He added that officials are continuing investigations to verify the accuracy of the land title deed, focusing particularly on elevation data and whether

any illegal encroachment or deforestation has occurred beyond the deed boundaries.

The issue gained heightened attention after Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee called on Governor Sophon Suwannarat to intervene urgently.

The MP cited repeated complaints from residents regarding illegal excavation on steep mountain slopes, which are vulnerable to landslides and flash floods, especially during the rainy season.

“This destruction of natural resources and mountain forests endangers communities downstream with no prior warning or

safeguards,” MP Chalermpong said in a Facebook post.

Governor Sophon responded by appointing Somkid Chokong, an advisor to the governor, to lead a site inspection. The multi-agency team included officials from Kathu District Office, Kamala OrBorTor, Phuket Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), Provincial Natural Resources and Environment Office, Forestry Office, and the Land Office.

The team confirmed the site covers about 32 rai and is legally registered under NorSor 4 Jor No. 11588, issued in 2008. The Phuket Forestry Office verified the land is outside designated forest zones.

During the inspection, officials found clear evidence of excavation and landfilling activities, captured in video footage shared publicly by MP Chalermpong. No individuals, machinery, or vehicles were present at the time of the visit.

Natnaree Likidwatanasakun

Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, found no immediate signs of injury or foul play.

According to local lifeguards, a “good Samaritan” had earlier seen the woman swimming alone in the area and noticed she left some clothing on the beach. Later, the same witness spotted a body floating and alerted lifeguards, who found the woman’s body washed ashore.

Police later confirmed that the woman had been staying in a nearby hotel with her daughter and the daughter’s boyfriend. The body was taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death.

RESCUES

Not all recent beach incidents have ended in tragedy. On Aug 6, two lifeguards at Bang Tao-Surin Beach heroically rescued a foreign tourist caught in a strong rip current.Avideo widely shared on social media captured the lifeguards riding a jet ski through rough surf to reach the unconscious man and bring him safely to shore.

Once on the beach, lifeguards immediately administered CPR while staff from a nearby hotel and concerned tourists assisted. Emergency services transported

the man to Thalang Hospital for further treatment. Authorities have yet to confirm the man’s identity or condition.

The incident highlights the vital role lifeguards play during Phuket’s monsoon season, when rapidly changing weather and sea conditions pose significant risks. Lifeguards and officials regularly issue red-flag warnings and advise swimmers to stay within monitored zones.

Reflecting these dangers, Patong Surf Life Saving released its July report showing 122 rescues from treacherous currents alone, along with numerous other incidents including water sports injuries, jellyfish stings, and medical emergencies.

Although the number of rescues is high, Patong lifeguards reported no fatalities during the month, demonstrating the effectiveness of their swift response and preventative efforts. The night team, while less busy with water rescues, also plays a key role in advising tourists against unsafe night swimming and handling intoxication cases.

“Phuket’s beaches can be unforgiving during the monsoon,” said Patong Surf Life Saving. “We urge everyone to swim responsibly, heed warnings, and respect the sea’s power.”

Tourist stabbed over B60 fruit dispute

A LATE-NIGHT ALtercation over a B60 fruit payment escalated into a violent incident in Patong early on Aug 8, leaving a foreign tourist seriously injured after being stabbed in the abdomen by a street vendor.

Patong Police were alerted to the incident and arrived at the scene, in front of Patong Medical Clinic on Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Rd at 2:20am.

Pol Lt Col Somprasong Labaisat, Deputy Superintendent (Investigation) of Patong Police Station, led the initial response, joined by a rescue team from the Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation.

Upon arrival, officers found the injured man lying on the sidewalk with a serious stab wound to the abdomen.

He was later identified as Orxan Hidayet Oglu Orkhan, 33, anAzerbaijan national. He was rushed to Patong Hospital for emergency treatment.

At the scene, officers also found the suspect, Pannawit Yongyosying,

25, waiting in front of the clinic.

Pannawit confessed to stabbing the tourist during an argument that began when Mr Orxan ate fruit from the sidecar stall he operated with his girlfriend, and allegedly refused to pay the B60 charge.

According to Pannawit’s statement to police, the situation escalated after a verbal exchange, leading him to use a knife to stab the tourist once in the stomach.

Officers took Pannawit into custody and took him to Patong Police Station for further questioning and legal proceedings, reported Patong police.

Eakkapop Thongtub

Man arrested for rape of unconscious victim

Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

A40-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly raping and filming a Myanmar woman while she was unconscious, police have confirmed.

Wichit Police said the man was taken into custody in Phuket Town on Aug 4 under an arrest warrant issued by the Phuket Provincial Court on July 29.

The arrest follows a months-long investigation into the incident, which allegedly took place in early May.

According to a public statement from Wichit Police, the suspect was apprehended near the old bus terminal on Phang Nga Rd after officers received information that he was in the area.

He was arrested by a team of investigators led by Wichit Police Inspector Lt Col Wittaya Kunnoi, under the direction of Wichit Police Chief Col Somsak Thongkliang.

The man has been charged with raping a woman while she was unable to resist and with

Monks test positive for drugs

THREE MONKS AND TWO temple workers at Wat Cherng Talay in Thalang have tested positive for illegal drugs following a “random urine screening” prompted by a complaint from the temple’s committee chairman.

The operation was carried out at 2pm on Aug 7 by Cherng Talay Police in coordination with the Phuket Provincial Office of Buddhism, Thalang District officials, public health officers and the temple committee.

The inspection followed a complaint lodged on Wednesday (Aug 6) by temple committee chairman Worapong Sae Jia, who alleged that monks and staff were using drugs.

Public health officers tested seven monks and five temple workers. The results found three monks and two workers under

the influence of methamphetamine.

The three monks voluntarily disrobed and agreed to enter rehabilitation under the Narcotics Act.

The two workers ‒ named by police as 40-year-old Phisit Sae Chua of Cherng Talay and 45-year-old Jiradej Saenchan from Ratchaburi ‒ refused rehabilitation. Both were arrested and charged with illegal use of a Category 1 narcotic.

They were taken to Cherng Talay Police Station for further legal proceedings.

Eakkapop Thongtub

recording video or audio of the act for personal or third-party gain. Police said the video clip was used as key evidence in the arrest warrant.

The victim, a Myanmar national, told police she had been invited to a birthday dinner in May by a close friend and her boyfriend, the accused. The group had drinks at a restaurant in Phuket Town, after which the victim reportedly lost consciousness and later woke up in the suspect’s room, alongside her friend. At the time, she believed nothing serious had occurred.

However, last week the woman received a video clip from a friend, allegedly showing the suspect engaging in sexual activity with her while she appeared to be unconscious. She filed a formal complaint at Wichit Police Station shortly thereafter.

Police said the suspect fled to a northern province but later returned to Phuket, where investigators tracked him down while he was applying for a job at a restaurant in town.

The suspect continues to deny the charges. Police said further legal proceedings are now underway.

Foreigner caught washing rentals

A FOREIGN MAN HAS BEEN arrested in Kathu for illegally working at a motorcycle rental business, as part of an ongoing crackdown by the Tourist Police on unauthorised employment by foreigners.

Phuket Tourist Police reported that officers from Investigation Division 2, Tourist Police Bureau 3, led by Pol Lt Col Pittaya Thepmuang, conducted a raid at ONE WAY Big Bike Rental in Kathu onAug 5

At the premises, officers found a man who officers identified only as ‘Mr Dinar’ washing motorcycles that were being rented to tourists. When asked to present a valid work permit, Mr Dinar was unable to do so.

Police confirmed that the work in question – involving motorbike rental services – is a type of occupation prohibited to foreigners under Thai law unless specific permission is granted.

Mr Dinar reportedly told officers he was merely washing a motorbike for his friend, a man named Victor, who had also lent him a motorcycle for personal use. However, officers deemed his actions to constitute illegal employment.

Mr Dinar was taken into custody and charged with “being an alien permitted to temporarily reside in the Kingdom of Thailand and engaging in work or employment without permission.”

Mr Dinar’s nationality was not reported.

Tourist Police said further investigations are ongoing to determine whether others may be involved in similar activities.

Eakkapop Thongtub

Police launch digital project to reduce road accidents

The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

Phuket Provincial Police have introduced a new digital initiative aimed at cutting road accidents by integrating vehicle data with real-time traffic violation monitoring.

The ‘Safer Road Connect’ project was officially launched on Aug 6 at The Pago Design Hotel in Ratsada, with Phuket Provincial Police Commander Pol Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum presiding.

Designed as a pilot, the system uses digital applications to centralise and manage traffic violations by linking vehicle data from multiple sectors.

Pol Col Kasidin Chaikratok, Director of the Phuket Provincial Police Administrative Division, said the project addresses Phuket’s growing road safety challenges due to increasing traffic, complex travel patterns linked to tourism, and risky road behaviour.

“Data from the Thai Accident Centre and provincial databases show the scale of the problem. This project supports the national digital government policy and Thailand’s wider road safety strategy,” he said.

Using vehicle licence plate data, the system tracks driving behaviour, records violations, and builds a comprehensive database. This enables

authorities to issue warnings, analyse trends, and improve enforcement.

The initiative aims to create a seamless, multi-agency approach for traffic enforcement by integrating data between government bodies, educational institutions, and healthcare providers. This collaboration will help analyse incident patterns and apply targeted safety interventions, Pol Col Kasidin explained.

So far, three government agencies, three educational institutions, and one hospital have joined the pilot, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote road safety through the system.

Pol Maj Gen Sinlert highlighted the project’s importance amid Phuket’s rising vehicle numbers and tourist arrivals.

“Road safety is critical here.

‘Safer Road Connect’ allows realtime violation monitoring and better analysis of risky behaviour to enhance law enforcement,” he said.

He praised the cooperation between public, private, and educational sectors, noting that success depends on strong partnerships.

The pilot will assess the system’s performance and potential expansion across Phuket and beyond, Pol Maj Gen Sinlert said.

Phuket celebrates 11 outstanding mothers in annual awards ceremony

ELEVEN WOMEN HAVE BEEN recognised for their exceptional contributions to family and society in the annual ‘Outstanding Mother of Phuket Province’ awards, held in honour of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother.

The awards, presented at the Phuket Merlin Hotel in Phuket Town last week, were given as part of a Mother’s Day tribute ceremony hosted by the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), in collaboration with the Phuket Creative Women’sAssociation.

Presiding over the event was PPAO President Rewat Areerob, who led the gathering in offering blessings to Her Majesty on the occasion of Mother’s Day, observed across Thailand on Tuesday (Aug 12).

“This event celebrates the pivotal role mothers play in building strong families and cohesive communities,” Mr Rewat said. “These awards are a way to honour that contribution and inspire others.”

The 2025 awards recognised mothers in five categories:

Mothers who contribute to society: Ms Thanathip Limsilajirakul, Ms Somjai Kongkunakorn and Ms Nongnapat Phuthiraphatrakul.

Mothers who demonstrate diligence and perseverance: Ms Prakhueng Muenphan and Ms Phayao Suwarak.

Mothers of children who contribute to society and the nation: Ms Prakong

Mothers of farmers and community product creators: Ms Orapan Khuntong and Ms Chompoonut Bunsopa.

Mothers of children who volunteer: Ms Usa Sukprasert and Ms Rasmi Sae-iew.

Each recipient was selected for her exceptional dedication, whether through personal acts of service or by raising children who have gone on to contribute meaningfully to the nation.

The ceremony, now a longstanding tradition in Phuket, aims to uplift the role of mothers as pillars of the family and as role models in society.

“This recognition helps strengthen the family institution, which is the foundation of a strong and caring society,” Mr Rewat added.

The PPAO stated in its announcement that the event also served to reinforce local cultural values and the importance of honouring mothers not just on Mother’s Day, but throughout the year. The Phuket News

Illegal jet-skis seized in CIB Pa Khlok raids

OFFICERS FROM CENTral Investigation Bureau (CIB), joined by Phuket Marine Police, have seized 38 illegally operated jet-skis in a coordinated crackdown across six locations in Phuket, as part of efforts to boost tourist safety and protect the island’s image.

The operation, led by the CIB, targeted operators running jet-ski services without proper licences and in violation of safety regulations. Officials warned that some operators’ negligence was putting tourists’ lives at risk.

Raids were conducted last week at: Yamu Pier, Pa Khlok ‒ four jet-skis seized in two cases; Laem Nga Pier, Ratsada ‒ two jet skis seized in two cases; Ao Po Beach, Pa Khlok ‒ nine jet-skis seized in two cases; Laem Tukkae Beach, Koh

Siray ‒ six jet-skis seized in two cases; Ao Po Beach, Paklok, Thalang ‒ eight jet-skis seized in three cases; an unnamed beach “in front of a hotel” in Pa Khlok ‒ nine jet-skis seized in three cases.

Offenders face prosecution under Section 9 of the Navigation in Thai Waters Act B.E. 2481 (1938), as amended by Section 60 of the 1992 Act, for operating watercraft without the required licence, reported the CIB.

The CIB also said the crackdown will continue to deter illegal operators and ensure marine tourism services meet safety standards. “We are determined to build confidence among visitors and preserve the reputation of Thai tourism,” the CIB said in its report. The Phuket News

Tourism revenue remains steady

The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

Phuket’s tourism revenue has remained stable through the first seven months of 2025, with strong growth in arrivals from several markets helping offset a decline in Chinese visitors.

Industry leaders say the momentum has been driven by targeted overseas marketing campaigns, high-profile international events, and strategic partnerships aimed at diversifying the island’s visitor base.

Phuket Tourist Association (PTA) Vice President Rangsiman Kingkaew said visitor numbers from India, Israel, the United Kingdom, South Korea and France have more than doubled compared to the same period last year, with Indian tourists emerging as the largest source of arrivals to both Thailand and Phuket from May to July. Australian visitors also remain a strong market.

“The province is adapting to changing tourist behaviour while preparing for a potential rebound in Chinese arrivals and maintaining growth from other key markets,” Mr Rangsiman said, adding that peak-period overcrowding remains a challenge, though immigration officers have won

international praise for keeping arrival processes smooth. He noted that the upcoming high season will be crucial, with numbers expected to rise thanks to major events such as the Thailand Biennale, EDC and Ganesha Chaturthi. He also stressed that Phuket’s tourism sector remains unaffected by the current situation along the Thai-Cambodian border, with visitor confidence holding firm.

RUSSIAPUSH

To build on this momentum, the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO) and the PTA mounted a two-pronged “Phuket Roadshow to Russia” this month, targeting both Moscow, a prime market for high-spending travellers, and Tyumen, an emer-

ging secondary market east of the Ural Mountains.

The Moscow event, held at the Ararat Park Hyatt Hotel, attracted more than 70 Russian travel agents for business-to-business talks with 22 Phuket tourism operators. The delegation was led by PPAO Vice President Anupap Wetchwanichsanong, PPAO Council Vice President Nopphan Suebsak, PPAO Council Member Panupol Chaiyo and senior PTA executives.

Thai Ambassador to Russia Sasiwat Wongsinsawas welcomed guests, noting that in 2024 over 1.74 million Russians visited Thailand, with more than 1mn choosing Phuket. “Phuket is not only a vacation destination, but also a reflection of Thailand’s development, sustainability and

Phuket team returns from GSTC

A DELEGATION OF PUBLIC and private sector representatives from Phuket has returned from Fiji after attending the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference 2025 (GSTC 2025) ‒ a key step in preparing the island to host next year’s edition of the event.

The conference, organised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, took place from Aug 5-8 at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort. It brought together industry leaders, government officials, and tourism professionals from around the world to share knowledge, showcase best practices and promote the GSTC Criteria ‒globally recognised standards for sustainable tourism.

The Phuket delegation was led by Phuket Vice Governor Samawit Suphanphai and included Pattanachai Singhawara, Director of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB); Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, President of the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation; Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, President of the Phuket Tourist Association; and a working group from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket Office.

Mr Samawit said the event offered a valuable opportunity to

study international approaches and innovations in sustainable tourism, and to forge connections with organisations and entrepreneurs from across the globe.

“The knowledge and partnerships gained here will strengthen our preparations for hosting GSTC 2026 and help elevate Phuket’s image as a leader in sustainable tourism,” he said.

Phuket will host the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference 2026 from Apr 21-24 next year.

The event is expected to attract hundreds of delegates and further position the island as a model for balancing tourism growth with environmental and cultural preservation. The Phuket News

world-class services,” he said.

Supported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) Moscow Office, the event included a briefing on Russian travel trends for 2025 by TAT Moscow Director Kanchana Singudom, enabling Phuket businesses to fine-tune their strategies. Travel packages ranged from luxury beachfront stays and family-friendly holidays to adventure tours and local gastronomy experiences.

Four days earlier, on Aug 4, the Phuket team visited Tyumen –the first time a Thai tourism delegation had held such an event in the city. More than 50 Russian tour operators and agents took part, with several beginning negotiations with Phuket companies. Tyumen, known for its oil and gas wealth, has regular winter charter flights to Phuket and a population with high purchasing power.

PTA Secretary-General Kan Ekwanich said the visit was part of a long-term plan to diversify Phuket’s visitor base. “This is not just about numbers or negotiations, but about building lasting relationships with new markets,” he said.

CIS TOUR

The island’s global outreach also extended to Central Asia this

summer. From June 30 to July 4, the TAT Moscow Office staged the ‘Amazing Thailand Roadshow to CIS Countries 2025’ in Tashkent (Uzbekistan), Astana and Almaty (Kazakhstan), aiming to strengthen tourism cooperation and attract high-quality travellers from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).

Led by Ms Kanchana Singudom, the roadshow brought together 27 Thai travel operators from key tourism provinces, including Phuket, and over 300 leading travel agencies from the three cities. On July 2 in Astana, Thai Ambassador to Kazakhstan Piyapin Niyomrek officially opened the event, highlighting tourism’s role in deepening bilateral ties.

The TAT’s strategy targets high-spending, long-stay travellers from the CIS, whose growing outbound market aligns with Thailand’s focus on quality over quantity in tourism, Ms Kanchan noted.

Visitors from these countries often travel in groups, stay longer and spend more per trip, she added.

The campaign is expected to boost arrivals from the CIS to Phuket, lengthen average stays, and increase spending across the island’s tourism-related sectors, Ms Kanchana said.

Push for small hotels to be legally registered

THE SENATE IS WORKING with Phuket authorities and tourism representatives to ensure as many informal hotels as possible are registered before a key legal deadline on Monday (Aug 18).

A Phuket delegation last week met with the Senate Subcommittee on Studying Approaches and Mechanisms to Promote SMEs at Parliament House in Bangkok.

The meeting reviewed progress on implementing the Ministerial Regulation on Other Building Types Used for Hotel Operations, first issued in 2016 and now in its fourth amendment, which expires later this month, explained an official report of the meeting.

The regulation allows operators with buildings providing accommodation before Aug 19, 2016, to apply for permits to modify or change their building’s use for hotel operations. Without registration, many small hotels risk operating illegally.

The Phuket delegation included senior provincial officials, officials from the Public Works and Town & Country Planning Office, the Kathu District Chief, Patong Mayor Lalita Maneesri and representatives from the Tour-

ism Industry Council, the Phuket branch of the Boutique Accommodation Consortium (BAC Phuket) and several representatives from ASA Thaksin (Association of Siamese Architects Under Royal Patronage - Southern Region).

The meeting was chaired by Senator Nipon Ekwanich, who hails from Phuket.

The Phuket Public Works Office proposed that local authorities follow the relaxed criteria under the 2023 amendment, which allow eligible operators to apply for a change-of-use permit if their building has structural stability certification from a qualified engineer and a fire protection system in place. This would fast-track hotel licence applications.

Five recommendations were endorsed for national consideration:

• Extend the 2016 regulation’s enforcement period by at least two years to give operators more time to comply.

• Issue a specific regulation under the Building Control Act for small hotels, with a new permit application form.

• Establish provincial working groups to pre-screen applications and assist owners in meeting legal requirements.

• Develop and distribute a compliance manual, and train local officials to ensure consistent enforcement.

• Create an online system for submitting modification and change-of-use permit applications.

The Senate Committee on Commerce and Industry approved submitting these recommendations to the Ministry of Interior, which will forward them to all provincial governors.

The proposals aim to give informal hotels more time and tools to become legal, boosting Phuket’s tourism sector and strengthening SME development in line with government policy, noted the official report of the meeting.

The Phuket News

Border unrest rumbles on

The presence of numerous Cambodian rockets and landmines means that Thai border communities and frontiers are still unsafe for civilians and military personnel, according to the Royal ThaiArmy (RTA).

The Royal ThaiArmy said that as of last Saturday (Aug 9) soldiers had found 824 rocket craters in areas near the Thai-Cambodian border – most of them in communities and hospitals.

Explosive ordnance disposal personnel were working urgently to clear shells at the craters so that Thai evacuees could return home as safely as possible, the RTA said.

Rockets that had been fired from Cambodia and did not explode posed threats to people, explained Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, commander of the Second Army Region. He advised people who spotted shell craters to report their findings to government officials immediately and stay away from such locations.

Soldiers were also facing threats from many landmines that Cambodian forces had laid in

Thai territory before retreating, he added and were using excavators and tractors to help clear landmines for their own safety.

The RTA revealed that the 824 Cambodian rocket craters were in four northeastern provinces, namely Buri Ram, Si Sa Ket, Surin and Ubon Ratchathani.

There were 256 craters in Buri Ram with 254 cleared, 72 craters in Si Sa Ket (all cleared), 439 craters in Surin (372 pieces of ordnance defused) and 57 craters in Ubon Ratchathani (all cleared).

Military personnel also found 18 PMN-2 anti-personnel landmines, two of which remained operational, in addition to

numerous rocket-propelled grenades.

“Such weapons are the silent death that hides near houses, hospitals and people’s farmland,” said Col Chatrapee Poonsri, spokeswoman for the armed forces headquarters.

CONEDEMNED

A soldier lost his leg and two colleagues were also injured when an anti-personnel landmine exploded near the Don AowKritsana area in Thailand’s Si Sa Ket province on Saturday.

The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sharply condemned Cambodia over repeated injuries

Opposition suspicious about sudden change on poker

THE OPPOSITION BHUMJAITHAI

Party has voiced suspicions about the timing of an order to revoke outdated regulations and legalise poker tournaments in Thailand.

The order happened to coincide with a poker tournament that went ahead a day after it was signed by Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, said Korrawee Prissananantakul, a Bhumjaithai MP for Ang Thong and chairman of the House Committee on ProvincialAdministration onAug 6.

He said his committee summoned representatives from the Department of Provincial Administration and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to discuss it as they considered it constituted illegal gambling.

Members inquired whether the organisers had applied for permission and learned they had not. Although they claimed the event would be postponed, it ended up being delayed by only one day, from July 30 to 31.

Committee members expressed some curiosity about why the organisers were confidenttheywouldobtainapproval.

However, in a surprising turn of events, the interior minister on July 30 signed an order revoking a 1958 ministry regulation, allowingpokerconteststoproceed.

Mr Korrawee said the sudden change raises concerns, especially since the Interior Ministry is one of the lead agencies in charge of preventing gambling in Thailand.

Although some may argue poker is a sport, he said evidence suggests gambling was involved in the contest, with cash prizes and online betting promoted through various websites. He called for the mattertobereferredbacktotheministry.

On Aug 5 Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong clarified that the move to allow poker under certain conditions was part of a formal process to recognise it as a sport, and not legalisation of gambling in general.

The new order revokes a longstanding 1958 Interior Ministry directive that completely banned poker, but it remains under Category B of the Gambling Act –activities that require special permission.

“It’s not full deregulation,” Mr Sorawong said. “Poker can only be played during specific events, and only after a formal Poker Sports Association is established.” Bangkok Post

to Thai soldiers caused by Cambodian landmines.

In a statement on Saturday, the ministry said the latest explosion was the third such incident involving Thai forces in less than a month.

“The Royal Thai Government condemns in the strongest terms the use of anti-personnel mines. Such actions are a clear violation of Thailand’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, breaching fundamental principles of international law, international humanitarian law, and the United Nations Charter,” the statement read.

“They also constitute a clear breach of obligations under the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (Ottawa Convention). Thailand is lodging another formal protest and, as a State Party, will take action in accordance with the Convention.”

The ministry said the laying of new mines undermines the ceasefire agreed by both countries and urged Cambodia to stop these “gross violations” immediately. It also called for urgent cooperation on humanitarian demining along the border, as agreed by the two prime ministers.

According to the ministry, Thailand raised the issue at the Extraordinary Session of

the General Border Committee meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Aug 7, but Cambodia has yet to respond. At the same meeting in the Malaysian capital Thailand and Cambodia agreed to uphold the ceasefire and maintain current troop positions along their shared border.

BARBED WIRE

The RTA also confirmed on Sunday (Aug 10) that about 16 kilometres of barbed wire has been laid to prevent scammers, drug traffickers and illegal workers from easily crossing the Thai-Cambodian border in the East.

Barbed wire was installed along 9.8km of the Phrom Hot Canal at the Thai-Cambodian border in the eastern province of Sa Kaeo, stretching between Aranyaprathet 20 (Khlong Luek Bridge) and Aranyaprathet 31 border checkpoints, an area that typically facilitates illegal border crossings.

Soldiers also laid barbed wire along a distance of 6.3km between Aranyaprathet 08 and Aranyaprathet 20 border checkpoints which the army said they hoped would restrict illegal border crossings.

ChatGPT is Making You Stupid

ITHE AI EDGE

s AI turning you into a zombie? Does chronic use damage your thinking and creativity? New research out of MIT’s Media Lab suggests it might. ChatGPT not only makes you lazy, it found, it significantly lowers your brain activity.

This might not surprise you. Scientfic and anectodal reports note that many of us leave AI sessions with our minds feeling slack and flaccid, having failed to engage in the task that the chatbot aced.

The MIT study, “Your Brain on ChatGPT”, indicates that this is not just subjective. It asked volunteers to write SAT-style essays, splitting them into three groups. One used ChatGPT, another Google search, and the third used no tools at all. Brain activity was measured by EEG.

The ChatGPT group showed markedly less mental engagment in the tasks, indicated by lower brain activity. In the words of the authors, they “consistently underperformed at neural, linguistic, and behavioral levels.” Their essays were judged to be repetitive, unoriginal, and “soulless.”

And it got worse. As the exercise progressed, the ChatGPT users got lazier. By essay three, they were barely doing anything at all – just pasting the question into ChatGPT and submitting the output.

And then worse still. Three months later, participants were asked to reproduce the same essays. Those in the ChatGPT group had largely forgotten the content. The researchers concluded that using the AI tool had short-circuited the learning process. The information had never made it into long-term memory networks.

This has huge implications for whether kids should use AI at school, as well as how you should use it in your life. The MIT study adds to a fast-growing body of evidence that delegating thinking tasks to machines – “cognitive offloading” – leaves the offloader less mentally capable.

There are some rays of hope. In the MIT study, the no-tech group was later allowed to use ChatGPT to reproduce their essay. In this condition, their neural activity remained high even with the tool, presumably because subjects did the original thinking themselves. This suggests that prior engagement might inoculate the brain against the numbing effects of chatbot use.

Cheat Sheet

Other research points to similar conclusions. AI can support learning – but only if it is calibrated to act

like a tutor, not a cheat sheet. When it asks questions, demands justifications and offers Socratic feedback, chatbots can actually improve learners’ performance.

But let’s be real: chatbots are only used like this in a tiny number of instances. Their default mode is to give you the answer you want straightaway with no effort on your part. That’s what they’re for. And that is the problem.

So what should you do?

Tragically for the human race, the best answer currently is discipline. Wharton Business School professor Ethan Mollick says we must develop “metacognitive awareness”. This is the ability to recognise when you are offloading too much cognitive effort and consciously pull back.

First, don’t prompt ChatGPT cold. Think first, draft an outline or argument before turning to the AI. Second, use AI as a checker, not a generator. Let it challenge your work, not replace it. Third, avoid multitasking with AI – this leads to shallow engagement. Finally, according to experts, we should reflect on what we’ve learned after each session.

As if, right? The extremely low chance that you, I or anyone will sit and ponder what we have and haven’t learned after a bout with AI shows what a challenge this is. But the stakes couldn’t be higher. When you stop thinking, you’re not just becoming less effective. You’re becoming less human.

Joe Smith is Founder of the AI consultancy 2Sigma Consultants. He studied AI at Imperial College Business School and is researching AI’s effects on cognition at Chulalongkorn University. He is author of The Optimized Marketer, a book on how to use AI to promote your business and yourself. Contact: joe@2sigmaconsultants.com.

A Handful of Hope on Phuket’s Shores

With the monsoon season in Phuket comes the wind, the waves and a heartbreaking sight on our beautiful beaches. My heart sinks every time I walk along the shoreline and see it – a carpet of plastic bottles, tangled fishing nets and styrofoam containers. It can feel overwhelming. The task of cleaning it all up seems impossible. Many people ask, “Why bother? The ocean will just bring more tomorrow.”

I used to think that way too and I have often heard the despair in people’s voices. The feeling that our effort is just a drop in the ocean. However, I want to tell you something from the bottom of my heart: it’s not about the one-day result – it’s about so much more.

When we participate in activities such as beach cleaning, we recognise it is more about our relationship with

nature. We quickly understand that helplessness is the enemy of action. It is natural that when we see a problem so big, our brains tell us we are powerless. But the simple act of bending down to pick up one plastic bottle, then another, breaks that cycle. Each piece of rubbish you remove is a small, tangible victory. It gives you a feeling of self-worth and purpose. It shows you that you are not powerless. You are a part of the solution.

Beach clean-ups are not just about the trash. They are about the people. They are about our community coming together. I have seen doctors, teachers, fishermen and tourists side-by-side, all with the same shared purpose. We don’t talk about politics or money. We talk about the strangest thing we found, the most beautiful shell, the countless shoes, lighters and discarded fishing nets. We laugh. We share stories. In that moment, we are all just people who love this island and we connect. These events are where lifelong friendships

begin. They build a stronger community, a more connected Phuket.

Daily choices

A clean-up is also educational, not theoretical or something we watch on social media, but an issue we connect with personally. When we find a bottle from a country thousands of miles away, it is a powerful lesson. It shows us that we are all connected by the ocean. It reminds us that our own daily choices – like choosing a reusable bottle or bag – have a global impact. This knowledge is not depressing; it is empowering. It gives us a new way to live, a way to be more mindful.

When you participate in a beach clean-up you have a clear goal: a clean beach. It has a clear end point. When you step back at the end of the day and see a clean stretch of sand, you see proof that your work matters. It is a powerful feeling. It is a feeling of hope.

The monsoon waves will indeed bring more trash tomorrow. But that doesn’t

make what we did today a waste of time. Today, we chose hope over despair. We chose to be active instead of passive. We chose to connect with our community and with nature. We showed our beaches, and ourselves, that we care.

So the next time you see a beach covered in litter, don’t turn away. Pick up a single piece. Then, if you feel up to it, find a friend and pick up another. Because every piece matters and every person you inspire is a testament to the power of human empathy and our ability to make a difference, one handful of hope at a time.

Josh O’Neill, a Certified Green Project Manager, GPM-b, with a Diploma in Conservation Psychology and an environmental advocate who leverages his extensive experience in community engagement and environmental awareness to highlight Phuket’s environmental issues and sustainable initiatives. Phone/WhatsApp 099-9989274 or support@thelitterclub.org.

1. What is a baby rabbit called?

2. What does ‘ring a ring a roses’ refer to?

3. Which country had the guns of Naverone installed?

4. Triskadeccaphobia is the fear of what?

5. What type of acid is used in car batteries?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

10.5

percent of adults worldwide have diabetes. That rate was 4.7% in 1980.

14

minutes is how long it took Sia to write Rihanna’s song ‘Diamonds’.

40

bottles of sunscreen were used by the cast of ‘Baywatch’ each month to keep them free from sunburn.

1,000

emojis is what students at China’s University of Electronic Science and Technology are forced to write out every time they are late to class.

101 million

US dollars was stolen from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York account belonging to Bangladesh Bank, the central bank of Bangladesh, by hackers in 2016 due to the bank’s use of $10 computer network switches and no firewalls. US$63mn transferred to four personal accounts in the Philippines still remains to be recovered.

Myles Mellor

DeLuise

Source: Uberfacts 27. Small boat

Lixivium 31. Baby carrier? 32. Dug into

"___ Cried" (1962 hit) 34. Form of ether 35. Unpopular spots 36. Accordingly

"Hardly!"

39. Jezebel's idol 40. Wright wing

Defense against charges 45. Greek cheese 46. Pastry dough, var. 47. Pronunciation symbol 48. March

Gonzo

Apply butter

Anorak

Round trip? 55. Military award

Hipbones

Energy

Punta del ___, Uruguay

60. Medicinal amt.

Wee hour

This week in history

Aug 15, 1843

Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest still intact amusement parks in the world, opens in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Aug 16, 2008

The Trump International Hotel and Tower in Chicago is topped off at 1,389 feet (423 metres), at the time becoming the world’s highest residence above ground-level.

Aug 17, 1560

The Catholic Church is overthrown and Protestantism is established as the national religion in Scotland.

Aug 18, 1945

Sukarno takes office as the first president of Indonesia, following the country’s declaration of independence the previous day.

Aug 19, 295 BC

The first temple to Venus, the Roman goddess of love, beauty and fertility, is dedicated by Quintus Fabius Maximus Gurges during the Third Samnite War.

Aug 20, 1866

President Andrew Johnson formally declares the American CivilWar over.

Aug 21, 1770

James Cook formally claims eastern Australia for Great Britain, naming it New South Wales.

12 EVENTS & CLASSIFIEDS

Friday Mussels Night

6 PM onwards: Belgian style mussels served with French Fries.All you can eat. Your choice, Your style: Mariniere, Selected drinks, Provencale, Garlic & cream, Creamy curry, Blue cheese or Thai style. We have a kid’s playground zone. Adults: 325 baht P.P. www.shakersphuket.com www.facebook.com/ shakersphuket Oliver, Shakers restaurant 98/18 Vises Road, Rawai 83130, 081 891 4381

Sunday Roast

12PM – 9PM: All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet Beef, Pork & Capon chicken – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, Fried mushrooms, Grilled Tomatoes –Yorkshire pudding – Roasted Potatoes, Mashed Potatoes – Gravy, Mushroom sauce, Horse raddish, Mint Sauce. We have a kid’s playground zone.Adults: 350 baht P.P. Kids under 12 years old: 195 baht P.P. www.shakersphuket.com www.facebook.com/ shakersphuket Oliver, Shakers restaurant 98/18 Vises Road, Rawai 83130, 081 891 4381

Monday BBQ Night

6 PM onwards: All you can eat BBQ buffet cooked to order. Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Fish, Prawns & Squids, salad buffet and veggies, Choice of potatoes, cold and hot sauces, Bread, Buns & garlic bread. We have a kid’s playground zone. Adults: 395 baht P.P. Kids under 12 years old: 195 baht P.P. www.shakersphuket.com www.facebook. com/shakersphuket Oliver, Shakers restaurant 98/18 Vises Road, Rawai 83130, 081 891 4381

Basic Life Support (CPR/AED)

Training & Cancer Awareness

Essential Health & Life-Saving Skills for Phuket Expat Community by Bangkok Hospital Network in Phuket Date: 18 August 2025 II Time 13:00 – 17:00 at Bangkok Hospital Siriroj (5th Floor, Dr. Anuroj’s Meeting Room) Event Highlights: CPR/AED Certification Training: Adult & Infant CPR, Choking First Aid, AED Use Led by Dr. Suksan Kumnualsilp, Emergency Physician • Self-Breast Examination: Hands-on Workshop for Early Detection by Preyanuch Boonrat, Specialized Registered Nurse from Phuket Cancer Institute FREE EVENT FORALL INTERESTED | LIMITED SEATS!

Wednesday BBQ Night

6 PM onwards: All you can eat BBQ buffet cooked to order. Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Fish, Prawns & Squids, salad buffet and veggies, Choice of potatoes, cold and hot sauces, bread, buns & garlic bread. We have a kid’s playground zone. Adults: 395 baht P.P. Kids under 12 years old: 195 baht P.P. www.shakersphuket.com www.facebook.com/ shakersphuket Oliver, Shakers restaurant 98/18 Vises Road, Rawai 83130, 081 891 4381

9/4

Prabaramee 7, Kalim Beach, Patong, hello@the-cube-villa-kalim.com, +66(0)92 870 6065

Skål August Dinner

Our next networking dinner will be held at INDOCHINE Resort & Villas, Kalim Bay (Patong), hosted by Skalleague Sue Ma. Registration from 6pm. Members B1,200 - Non-Members B1,600. Bookings - contact@skalphuket.org

AustCham Joint Chambers Phuket Sundowners

AustCham Thailand, in collaboration with Australian Alumni, AMCHAM, BCCT, Belgian-Luxembourg/Thai Chamber, CanCham Thailand, FTCC, GTCC, NTCC, NZTCC, Phuket Chamber of Commerce and Thai-Swedish Chamber, will host the Joint Chambers Phuket Sundowners from 18.00 - 21.00 hrs., atAzura Restaurant, Angsana Laguna Phuket. Join us for a wonderful night of making new connections and catching up with familiar faces in the Australian-Thai business community in Phuket. 650 THB for AustCham members, partner Chambers’ members, and Australian Alumni Members, 1,200 THB for non-members. To book contact - office@austcham thailand.com

Grow Boating EveningSept 2025

We look forward to seeing you at the Grow Boating Evening at the Isola restaurant at the Royal Phuket Marina from 5pm. Our drinks sponsor for the evening will be Royal Phuket Marina. See royalphuketmarina.com/marina There will be a delicious buffet sponsored by Isola Restaurant for all attendees. Come and join in the fun, everyone is welcome and there is no entry fee. Find us on

PHUKET BUSINESS NETWORKING EVENING -

AUGUST

Great night of networking held on August 8 at The Oasis Bar in Koh Kaew. Phuket Business Networking meets the 2nd Friday each month and is a relaxed and informal night of networking between local businesses. The next evening is on September 12. For more info visit facebook.com/phuketbusinesnetworking

Thailand’s Jeeno regains top spot

GOLF

THAILAND’S JEENO

Thitikul has regained top rank in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings for the second time in her career.

Jeeno, 22, passed Nelly Korda, who held top spot since March 2024, on Aug 5 when the latest official rankings were released.

Jeeno had previously held the number one spot for two weeks in October 2022, becoming the second Thai player since Ariya Jutanugarn to climb to the top.

“I am very grateful to become the No. 1 player in the world for the second time,” Jeeno said.

“This is not just about me – this is about my family, my team and my friends, not to mention the amazing support I feel from my fans in Thailand and all around the world.

“There are so many incredible golfers competing every week and I

will work my hardest to make sure I am a strong representative of our game.”

Jeeno leads the LPGA Tour following eight top-10 finishes this season, including a win at the Mizuho Americas Open in May and strong finishes at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship in June and at the Amundi Evian Championship last month.

Jeeno finished in the top 30 at the AIG Women’s Open in Wales on Aug 3, while Korda came in 36th place and is still searching for her first tournament win of 2025 after securing seven titles last year.

The Phuket News

SEA Games shift opening venue

SEA GAMES

Bangkok Post

The organising committee for the 33rd SoutheastAsian Games has agreed to move the venue of the opening ceremony from Sanam Luang to Rajamangala National Stadium, citing safety concerns for athletes from all participating nations.

The decision was announced during a meeting onAug 5, chaired by Minister of Tourism and Sports Sorawong Thienthong, with senior executives, including Dr Gongsak Yodmani, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand, and members of the organising committee in attendance.

The Rajamangala National Stadium will now serve as the venue for both the opening and closing ceremonies of the 33rd SEA Games, while Sanam Luang will be used as the site for the Games flame, officials confirmed.

The 13th ASEAN Para Games will be held at HM the King’s 80th Anniversary Stadium in Nakhon Ratchasima, with Ya Mo Square serving as the torch lighting point.

Concerns about Cambodia’s participation in the competition amid the border tensions have also been raised, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which has suggested that organisers wait for the outcome of the next General Border Committee (GBC) meeting between Thailand and

Two Japanese boxers die after brain injuries at same event

BOXING

TWO BOXERS IN JAPAN have died from brain injuries they incurred in separate bouts during the same event in Tokyo.

Super featherweight Shigetoshi Kotari and lightweight Hiromasa Urakawa, both 28, fought on the same card in Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall on Aug 2.

Both were later rushed to hospital where they had brain surgery.

Kotari, who battled to a draw after 12 rounds against fellow Japanese fighter Yamato Hata lost consciousness soon after and “passed away at 10:59pm on Aug 8,” his M.T boxing gym said on its website.

“He did his best to fight his way through the surgery and treatment he had been receiving at a Tokyo hospital due to acute subdural haematoma,” the gym’s post said.

Urakawa was stopped in the eighth and final round against Yoji Saito and “tragically succumbed to injuries sustained during his fight”, the World Boxing Organization (WBO)

said on Sunday (Aug 10).

Urakawa died on Saturday night, according to local media reports.

“This heartbreaking news comes just days after the passing of Shigetoshi Kotari, who died from injuries suffered in his fight on the same card,” the WBO said, adding it extends “our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community.”

Tsuyoshi Yasukochi, secretary-general of the Japan Boxing Commission, told local media after their hospitalisation that it was likely “the first time in Japan two fighters underwent skull-opening surgery for injuries stemming from the same event”. AFP

Cambodia, which is being held in Malaysia later this month, before assessing the next steps.

Organisers have also agreed to waive expenses for 450 athletes from Myanmar participating in the Games on the condition that Myanmar sends at least 850 athletes.

The 33rd SEA Games will take place between Dec 9-20 in Bangkok, Chon Buri and Songkhla.

A total of 574 gold medals in 50 sports will be up for grabs in the tournament.

The 2025 SEA Games will be the seventh time Thailand has hosted the event, with Bangkok having previously hosted in 1959, 1967, 1975 and 1985. It will also be the first time Chonburi and Songkhla will serve as the main host cities of the biennial tournament.

Meanwhile, the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand (LTAT) will submit its final SEA Games squad to the Olympic Committee of Thailand next week.

LTAT president Suchai Pornchaisak-udom has said Thailand, as the host nation, will participate in all seven tennis events of the Games, which are the men’s and women’s singles, doubles and team competitions along with a mixed doubles contest.

Suchai added that the selection of the team would be based on world rankings and the LTAT planned to name the squad well before the Sept 1 entry-by-name deadline.

The tournament will take place at the International Tennis Federationcertified National Tennis Development Centre (NTDC) in Muang Thong Thani.

Kirill Grishenko warns Reug Reug:

‘I’m going to finish you next time’

KIRILL GRISHENKO BElieves he has earned another crack at the ONE Championship heavyweight title – and he has unfinished business with both men at the top.

The Belarusian shut down Canada’s Ben Tynan over three rounds at Lumpinee Stadium, earning a unanimous decision at ONE Fight Night 34 onAug 2.

It was Tynan’s first appearance since serving a one-year doping ban, with the bout marking his return after 15 months out. But the 31-year-old was unable to get anything going against Grishenko’s smothering pressure.

“I don’t know what my opponent expected, but I believe in myself, my power and my capabilities – and I believe I’m next in line to fight for the title,” Grishenko said.

He has history with current champion Oumar “Reug Reug” Kane, as the only man to have beaten the Senegalese star in his pro career.

Their meeting in 2021 ended in bizarre fashion when Reug Reug flopped to the canvas in Singapore after a second-round punch that appeared to land after

the bell. He clutched his throat and stayed down, failing to answer the referee’s call – with some suggesting he had gassed out and was looking for a disqualification.

“I would like to beat Reug Reug again,” Grishenko said. “I hope this time he is not going to pretend or play any games. I’m going to finish him and take him out.”

Grishenko later challenged for the interim belt in February 2022, but suffered a knockout loss to Anatoly Malykhin.

He’s expecting the Russian to regain the title when he faces Reug Reug again in the ONE 173 co-main event on Nov 16 in Japan, after a shock split decision loss last year in their first encounter.

“I believe that Anatoly will have worked on his mistakes and

I don’t think Reug Reug will win again,” he said.

“We are friends and we talk, but this is sport. There’s a saying – a bad soldier is one that doesn’t want to become the general – so I definitely want to get my revenge over Malykhin.”

Grishenko also welcomed a potential showdown with Ryugo Takeuchi, after the Japanese heavyweight called him out following his knockout win over Kang Ji Won on the same card.

“We never say no to any fight or any opponent,” Grishenko said. “So if that opportunity comes up, we will take it.”

The 33-year-old credited his preparation at Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA in Phuket for the dominant performance, highlighting the role of Turkish training partner Shamil Erdogan.

FAT unveils vibrant new season

Representatives from Thai league teams took to the stage last Friday (Aug 8) as the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) held a launch event for the new domestic season, which is set to begin next week.

“The fun atmosphere will return with the start of the new season of Thailand’s professional football leagues next week,” said Nualphan Lamsam, the FAT president, during the Thai League Beyond the Game 2025/26 event at Hua Lamphong train station onAug 6.

“Thanks to our supporters who recognise the importance of the Thai football league. Football is a sport that 70% of Thai people watch. Today is a great opportunity to begin a new era of the Thai league, with a total of 102 clubs participating this year. The clubs will receive much stronger financial support, with BYD [electric vehicle company] sponsoring all three domestic leagues,” Ms Nualphan, affectionately known as ‘Madame Pang’, explained.

“It is also the first time that we have three rights holders – GULF [Gulf Development Plc], JAS [Jasmine International Plc] and AIS [Advance Info Service Plc] – who have joined hands to broadcast live every match from all three leagues.

“I believe that the fun and excitement from every stadium will give the Thai football league a huge boost. We will have a wider and stronger fanbase and as a result the leagues will become more valuable. Hopefully this will be a new beginning for Thai football,” she added.

With electric automakers BYD coming in as the new title sponsor, all three professional football leagues are now called BYD Sealion 6 Thai League 1, BYD Seal 5 Thai League 2 and BYD Dolphin Thai League 3.

Benson Ke, general manager of BYD Thailand, said, “I’m very proud to be a part of the Thai League press conference, with the new season

starting next week.

“Everyone knows that football is the most popular sport in Thailand. And I always think that sports can bring people together.

“We [BYD] are honoured to be a sponsor for the Thai football league and we hope that we can grow together and succeed together.”

The event also saw players from the three league teams showcase their new uniforms on the runway.

The Thai League 2025/26 season starts tomorrow (Aug 15) and finishs in June 2026.

Ratchaburi will face promoted Kanchanaburi Power in the opening match of the top flight tomorrow evening.

FOOTBALL

CRYSTALPALACE TWICE came from behind to stun a new-look Liverpool and win the Community Shield for the first time on penalties after a 2-2 draw at Wembley last Sunday (Aug 10).

New signings Hugo Ekitike and Jeremie Frimpong scored for the Premier League champions, but Palace responded through Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr before winning an error-strewn shootout 3-2.

Mohamed Salah blazed over from the spot, while Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott were denied by an inspired Dean Henderson as Palace built on winning their first ever major trophy by beating Manchester City in May’s FACup final.

Youngster Justin Devenny was the Eagles’

unlikely hero as he blasted the winning spot-kick high past Alisson to win the match, the traditional curtain-raiser to the English football season.

“We were on the same level as Liverpool and it was a big performance. I’m proud of the team,” said Palace boss Oliver Glasner. Liverpool bossArne Slot fielded several new signings as part of the club’s £260 million (B11.3 billion) summer transfer outlay and was philisophical in defeat.

“The combinations look sometimes sharper now,” said the Dutchman in regards to the difference in his side to last season.

“We are able to create more but we are conceding at the moment more as well. If you want to compete to win the league, you cannot concede these chances.

“We conceded too much today to win the game.”

Inter-provincial snooker tournament held in Phuket Eagles soar at Wembley in Community Shield triumph

PHUKET HOSTED AN inter-provincial snooker tournament recently with the goal of raising the sport’s profile while boosting the local economy and tourism.

Organised by the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) Phuket Office, in collaboration with the Phuket Provincial Sports Association and the Phuket Snooker and Billiards Club, the “Snooker Phuket @ Sports City” tournament ran fromAug 2 – 7.

The event was held at Nimit Snooker Club in Talat Yai, where over 150 players representing 14 southern provinces took part, with trophies and cash prizes up to B50,000 at stake for the winners.

Competition conditions stipulated a 6 Red Open Handicap, a variation of standard snooker where only six red balls are used, as opposed to 15, and where players are assigned handicaps to level the playing field.

The opening ceremony last on Saturday, Aug 2 was presided over by Pol Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum, Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police, while further welcome speeches were delivered by Thammawat Wongcharoenyot, SAT Board Member and President of the Phuket Provincial Sports Association, and SAT Director Thanawut Petchara.

Mr Thanawut explained the objectives of the tournament were to promote and develop the game of snooker within the southern region of Thailand by creating a standardised competition arena where players could develop skills and techniques to elevate themselves to national and

international levels.

He further added that the event aligns with the Phuket ‘Sports City’ policy that leverages sports to help drive the economy, promote tourism and build the province’s image as a regional sports hub.

Mr Thammawat echoed these sentiments, stating that snooker is a very accessible game that enables athletes all of ages to showcase their potential and develop.

He added that Phuket is committed to encouraging its residents to pursuing a healthy lifestyle via exercise and this competition can contribute to Phuket being recognised as a truly sustainable sports city. The Phuket News

Sport

FOOTBALL

The vibrant pulse of football on this celebrated island has long been intertwined with the fortunes of its local team, Phuket Andaman FC. Yet for a number of seasons, that pulse has been weak, a whisper rather than a roar.

The recent takeover of the club by a new management team, led by president Thammawat Wongcharoenyot, signals not just a change in leadership but a desperate plea for a new beginning. In a year of significant change for the sport in Thailand, with the third tier now officially known as the BYD Dolphin League 3 following a major new sponsorship deal, Phuket’s supporters will be hoping their club’s internal reforms can match the league’s professional ambitions.

This transition, widely heralded by the beleaguered fanbase as a long-overdue act of salvation, follows a “disastrous” period under the ownership of Russ Horsely and Amornrat Khuephat, operating as Higher Sports Phuket.

Their tenure was defined by disappointment, a catalogue of

mismanagement that alienated a once-passionate fanbase. The climax was a harrowing 2024/25 season where the club’s very existence in the league hung by a thread. Survival was only secured on the final day, an act of sheer nerve rather than design, thanks to a late penalty that kept The Lobsters afloat at the expense of a crestfallen Yala FC. The relief was palpable, but it was also a stark warning that the club was at a crossroads.

SOBERING

The previous regime’s legacy is a sobering one. Numbers at home games dwindled, a clear and damning indictment of the ownership’s disconnect with the community. The nadir arrived when the club was forced to play the second half of the season away from home in Phang Nga, following the commencement of redevelopment at the Surakul Stadium. For a club that trades on its local identity and community spirit, the forced exile was a cruel blow, severing the few remaining threads connecting the team to its heartland. It highlighted a lack of foresight and stability that ultimately proved untenable. For the new leadership, the path ahead is fraught with both promise and peril. While their

arrival is seen as a welcome breath of fresh air, a significant challenge remains: to win back the trust of the very fans the previous owners pushed away. That task is made no easier by the news that the upcoming season will also be played at the Phang Nga provincial stadium, a necessary but undeniable blow to fans eager for the team's return home. The new management will need to demonstrate clear progress and communicate their long-term plans effectively to maintain supporter morale during this difficult transitional period.

Yet, there are strong reasons for optimism. The new regime, which includes Wanchalerm Wongcharoenyot as vice president, Krisada Oin as director, and Pisut Boonkoi as team manager, is not a collection of unknown outsiders. Many of the new faces are, in fact, old faces –individuals with deep roots in the club’s pre-Higher Sports era. This return of familiar figures suggests a commitment to the club’s original values and a desire to restore its former identity. Their collective experience and understanding of the local football landscape is a crucial asset that was sorely lacking under the previous ownership.

STABILITY

Central to this new chapter is the appointment of Pisut Boonkoi, or ‘Coach Go’ as he is widely known, who returns for his third spell at the club. His presence alone is likely to herald the return of many familiar faces, both on the pitch and in the dugout, offering a much-needed sense of continuity and stability.

Coach Go’s challenge will be to rebuild a competitive squad from the ashes of the previous season and to implement a style of play that reconnects with the fans. The broader context of Thai football offers new opportunities, with AIS taking over the TV rights for all leagues, including the T3. This increased television exposure could provide a financial and morale boost for clubs that perform well.

However, the new management’s most significant hurdle lies not on the pitch, but in the boardroom. The lingering shadow of “match-fixing” has long cast a pall over the club’s results and practices. While not the fault of the new owners, it is an image they will be forced to confront and dismantle.

To truly turn the page, The Lobsters’ new leaders must operate with a level of transparency and integrity that leaves no

room for doubt. This is not merely about winning games; it is about restoring the club’s soul and ensuring its every action is beyond reproach. The new leadership’s success will be measured by their ability to not only improve results but to rebuild the club’s reputation from the ground up, a task that requires patience, honesty and a steadfast commitment to ethical standards.

The path to redemption for Phuket Andaman FC will be a long and difficult one. The challenge is immense, from re-engaging a disillusioned fanbase to shaking off the ghosts of seasons past. Yet, for a community that cherishes its football team, this takeover represents a glimmer of hope – a chance for The Lobsters to not just survive, but to thrive once again.

The new executives have inherited a broken club, and it is now up to them to mend it, brick by painstaking brick.Their success will be measured not just in league positions, but in the return of the roar to the stands, and the belief in a brighter, cleaner future for football in Phuket.

Simon Causton is the co-host of ‘The Football Siam Podcast’ and writer of the ‘Football Siam’ blog which covers all things Thai football.