A Continental celebration - Australia Day, January 26th

On Australia Day 1999, I would like to convey the respects and warm wishes of the Australian people to his Majesty King Bhumipol Adulyadej, and to the government and people of the Kingdom of Thailand.

On this occasion last year, I recall expressing hopes for a strengthening of the already-healthy bilateral relationship between Thailand and Australia. I am pleased to say considerable momentum has in fact been added to our relationship over this period, possibly to a depth and breadth never before seen.

H.E. William Fisher Australia’s Ambassador to Thailand.

The global economic turmoil of the past year has presented many challenges to governments around the world, including Thailand and Australia. It has been Australia’s privilege not only to work with Thailand specifically in response to the crisis, but to continue nurturing and developing the bonds that exist between our two countries in so many different areas. Difficult times are often the test of a good partnership: Thailand and Australia have certainly passed that test.

The diverse range of activities that have occurred between our two countries over the past year is indicative of the quality of our friendship. To begin with, Thailand and Australia share a very active political and trade relationship. The Australian Prime Minister, Mr John Howard, made an official visit to Thailand last April. This was one of only two official trips abroad made by the Prime Minister during 1998, affirming the priority we accord to our bilateral relationship with Thailand. During this visit, the Prime Minister announced a number of initiatives designed to enhance further cooperation between Thailand and Australia, key among these being the provision of 80 scholarships to allow Thai students to study in Australia. These students will join some 250 students already studying in Australia with Australian Government scholarships.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Alexander Downer, also made an official visit last year, where he met with his Thai counterpart, as well as other senior Thai officials. Other ministerial visits included the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Mr Bruce Scott, and the Minister for Defence, Mr John Moore. In addition, the Prime Minister sent two special envoys to Thailand, Mr Ian Grigg, who came to assist in the building of linkages between the Thai and Australian automotive industries, and Mr Ted Evens, who had productive talks with officials prior to November’s APEC summit.

Both countries are keen to share information and develop mechanisms to allow an extension of mutually beneficial trade. One strong area of cooperation is agriculture, and the Australia Centre for International Agricultural Research works closely with the Thai government on a range of collaborative projects. A Memorandum of Understanding on agriculture cooperation was signed during the Prime Minister’s visit in order to further strengthen the linkages between our two agricultural sectors. Thailand’s Agricultural Minister, Pongpol Adireksarn, visited Australia last June to examine ways which Thailand could benefit from Australian technologies and research, in areas ranging from marine conservation to the prevention of forest fires.

Another positive development through the year was the Air Services Agreement signed between Thailand and Australia. The agreement will increase the level of traffic between the two countries, bringing benefits to exporters as freight capacity is expanded, as well as providing a strong base for increased tourism and education.

Australian businesses have maintained a strong presence in Thailand, at a time when many others were abandoning what they thought was a sinking ship. Clearly, Australians knew better. Thailand is emerging from the tough past twelve months slowly, but credibly and carefully. We hope that the businesses of both countries can now capitalise on what they have learned through the crisis, and forge ahead wisely to the benefit of each.

Australia has a close development cooperation partnership with Thailand. Australia’s aid program’s objective is sustainable development in areas where Thailand has an identified need, and where Australia is well-placed to provide assistance. Prior to the economic crisis, the Australian and Thai Governments had agreed to phase out Australian development assistance to Thailand to by 2000-1. However, following the onset of the crisis and during his visit to Thailand, the Australian Prime Minister announced that the Government would continue its aid program beyond this date, as well as provide a further A$17 million for activities to be developed over the next two years. A major new focus of the program is to address problems in the banking and finance system, to promote economic governance, and to mitigate the negative effects of the crisis, particularly on the poor and disadvantaged.

Other significant program activities continue in the priority sectors of human resource development, education, the environment and natural resource management, HIV/AIDS and health, and agricultural research. The Thailand-Australia Science and Engineering Project, worth $18.5 million and implemented with the assistance of the World Bank, is helping Thailand improve the quality of science engineering education in Thai public universities. The AIDS Ambulatory Care project is transferring Australian experience in AIDS-related outpatient care adapted to local conditions. Another project implemented in association with the World Bank is assisting the Thai Government to produce quality maps and land title deeds.

Australian education has long been a popular choice with Thais wishing to study abroad. Our universities, technical colleges and schools are renowned for their teaching excellence, and offer competitively-priced courses. When Australia’s safe, multicultural and pleasant lifestyle is also considered, it is not too great a surprise to discover that despite the economic situation, the demand for Australian education from Thai students is robust.

Academic cooperation between our countries remains strong with a number of agreements for academic and student exchanges and joint research being made over 1998. Our universities have been responsive to the needs of Thai students by enabling them to study under Australian academics and syllabi without leaving the country. For instance, Melbourne’s Swinbourne University of Technology and the TS Group of Companies commenced a joint venture to open the Laem Chabang School of Engineering, which offers a two-year vocational course in engineering. English is taught in various parts of Thailand by the University of New South Wales, Edith Cowan University and the University of Technology, Sydney. Thammasat University, the University of South Australia and the Department of Land have joined forces to offer a graduate diploma program for professionals working in the real estate sector, while Kasetsart University and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology recently signed an agreement to jointly offer Asia’s first-ever double degree program in Aerospace Engineering and Business Administration. As well, King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology, North Bangkok and Monash University have joined to offer a Master of Science in Information Technology. A large number of universities also offer distance education courses so that Thai students can gain degrees and subjects of Masters’ programs without leaving Thailand.

At the national level, Australia is working with the Ministry of Education through the Task Force on the National Framework for Technical and Vocational Education to introduce a national partnership between industry, Government and education and training providers, for the development of competency standards and curriculum.

A very special occasion for Australian education and training in 1998 was the conferral of an honorary doctorate on His Majesty the King of Thailand by Griffith University. The doctorate was in recognition of His Majesty’s contribution to the development of education in Thailand, and His care for His people.

Thailand has always been a popular destination for travelling Australians, and the successful Amazing Thailand campaign over the past twelve months has seen Thailand’s popularity surge even further. Australia also remains a favoured destination of Thais choosing to travel abroad to a destination offering a wide array of delights. The Thai-Australian cultural connection extends even beyond tourism, with over 25,000 Thais now living in Australia. Sydney alone has over 400 Thai restaurants.

In the area of defence, Australia and Thailand enjoy a close relationship, with an active defence cooperation program aimed at strengthening overall regional security. In 1998 our joint army exercises were CHAPEL GOLD, NIGHT PANTHER and DAY PANTHER. Australia also engaged with Thailand in the first peace-keeping exercise Australia has ever conducted with another nation. Furthermore, the Australian Defence Force provided advice to the Thai military about its own experience in restructuring to assist Thailand’s military leaders in coming to a decision about their own restructuring processes. The Australian Defence Force’s scholarship program continued last year, with a total of 19 full-time scholarships being awarded to Thai military officers for post-graduate study in Australia.

Defence industry and materiel cooperation activities are an important part of our strong defence relationship. Although the economic downturn ha significantly constrained defence acquisition programs, several Australian defence companies have maintained the impetus of a number of important defence business initiatives. These reflect Australian expertise in capability areas that are of mutual importance to the defence forces of both nations. Coincident with the diminished commercial activity, opportunities have arisen to give greater emphasis to materiel cooperation arrangements, and we expect that the coming year may see mutually beneficial outcomes from this program.

The Australian Federal Police have a unit in Thailand, and they have worked productively with the Royal Thai Police on a broad spectrum of issues over the past year. They have also liaised closely with the Office of the Narcotics Control Board on narcotics control.

Both Australians and Thais share a love of sport. The successful hosting of the 13th Asian Games in Bangkok is something Thailand deserves to be congratulated on. The performance of the Thai team was simply outstanding, and I would like to use this opportunity to offer my congratulations on behalf of the Australian people to all who participated. Many Australians followed the Games with great interest, given Australia’s involvement in Thailand’s sporting teams’ preparations: Australian coaches assisted in the training of Thai equestrian, swimming and cycling teams.

In fact, sport is one area where Australia and Thailand have built particularly strong links this past year. Back in 1997, the Australian Sports Commission signed an agreement with the Sports Authority of Thailand to assist in various ways with Thai sport. The Australia-Asia Sports Linkages Program has built on this sturdy base, and the results are now definitely showing, with traffic between countries of both sportspeople and their coaches on a sharp rise.

Reciprocal trips by both countries’ Thai boxing, or muay thai, teams occurred last year and raised awareness of this exciting Thai sport in Australia. The Australian boxing team used Thailand a training based to prepare for the Kuala Lumpur Commonwealth Games, while the Thai Olympic boxing team made a promotional visit to Australia earlier in the year. Members of the Thai equestrian team travelled to Perth to compete in an international competition and to initiate links with Australian equestrian authorities. A number of Thai Asian Games cyclists trained at the South Australian Institute of Sport this year, the Thai rugby union team played practice matches in Queensland, and the Thai hockey team made a training visit to the Northern Territory.

I’d like to finish this message by re-iterating how very important Thailand is to Australia. There is much evidence that this feeling is reciprocated towards Australia on Thailand’s behalf. The past year has been a difficult one economically, and I am pleased to say that Thailand and Australia’s relationship has withstood the hardships and potential problems such a climate presents. It gives me great pleasure to be representing Australia in a country Australia views as a natural partner, and I look forward to the honour of maintaining our excellent relationship over the next year.

US Embassy consular officer to visit Rayong and Pattaya

Consular Officer Marc Forino from the US Embassy in Bangkok will visit Rayong on January 28, and Pattaya on January 29. His visit will provide the opportunity for Americans residing in the area to obtain a number of consular services without having to travel to the US Embassy in Bangkok.

The officer will be providing services at the Rayong Orchid Hotel, Sukhumvit Road, Amphur Muang, Rayong, tel. (038) 614-341, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 28, and at the Merlin Pattaya Hotel, 429 Moo 9 Pattaya Beach Road, Chonburi 20260, tel. (038) 428-744, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, January 29.

Below is a list of services that will be provided during this visit:

* Passport applications (be advised, however, that new passports must be picked up at the US Embassy in Bangkok - they cannot be sent via mail)

* Extra passport pages

* Notarials, including affidavits required by the Thai government for marriage, driver’s licenses, and certain types of visas

* Registration with the US Embassy

* Information on application procedures for Thai citizens seeking US visas (note that applications must be submitted at the US Embassy in Bangkok)

Note that US law requires a US$55.00 (or Thai Baht equivalent) fee for each notary service provided. Passport fees range from US$40-60.

Please share this information with other Americans in your area. Should you have any questions, contact the American Citizen Services office at 02-205-4049.

American Citizen Services background information

The American Citizen Services (ACS) office of the US Embassy’s Consular Section provides a wide-range of services for American citizens in Thailand. Services provided include the issuance of US passports, birth registrations, Selective Service registration, absentee voting assistance, federal benefits assistance, and assistance to Americans with problems they are unable to solve on their own. The ACS office also provides notary services for American citizens and for all nationalities whose documents are related to business in the United States. All relevant fees must be paid in US dollars or Thai baht. Personal checks and credits cards are not accepted. The ACS office is open from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The address is: Embassy of the United States of America, Consular Section, 95 Wireless Road, Bangkok, Thailand 10330, tel. 02-205-4049, fax 02-205-4103.

Passport services

To apply for a new passport you must provide:

* Two recent 2 x 2 inch photos with a white or light background (black and white photos are acceptable)
* Completed passport application form
* Your previous passport

The current passport fee for citizens 16 years of age and older is US$40.00 (valid for 10 years). The current passport fee for citizens under 16 years of age is US$40.00 (valid for 5 years).

If your current passport has been lost or stolen, you must present the above plus a report from the Thai police and an affidavit (available at the ACS office) regarding the lost/stolen passport. You must also present proof of your US citizenship (a previous US passport, a Naturalization Certificate, or a Report of Birth Abroad of a US Citizen) and other picture identification (e.g. a US driver’s license). The current fee for issuing a replacement to a lost or stolen passport is US$60.00.

The ACS office can also add pages to a still valid passport. There is no fee for this service.

Birth registration services

The ACS office can issue passports and Consular Reports of Birth Abroad to a US citizen born in Thailand. To document your child as a US citizen and issue a passport requires:

* Your child’s personal appearance
* Child’s local birth certificate
* Parents’ passports
* Evidence of termination of parents’ previous marriages
* Two 2 x 2 inch photos of your child
* Completed passport application and Report of Birth Abroad forms
* If only one parent is a US citizen, proof of five years physical presence in the United States prior to the birth of the child of the US citizen parent.

In some instances, additional documents may be necessary.

English translations are required for all documents submitted. All documents should be originals or certified copies. The current fee for the Consular Report of Birth Abroad is US$40.00. The passport fee is US$40.00. For additional information, please call or write the ACS office.

Registration

We recommend that all US citizens register with the ACS office, particularly if you plan to live in Thailand for several months or longer. Registration is voluntary, but may prove useful if your passport is lost or stolen or you need to be notified in the event of an emergency.

To register requires:

* A completed ACS registration form
* A copy of your US passport

We ask that you keep your registration form current by notifying via letter or fax when you move, change phone numbers or depart Thailand permanently.

Marriage in Thailand

Local law requires that foreigners wishing to marry in Thailand must complete an affidavit of eligibility to marry. This affidavit can be executed at the ACS office. US citizens should bring proof of their identity when completing this affidavit. The current fee for this service is US$55.00. After the affidavit is completed, it must be translated and taken to the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs for authentication. The document can then be presented at a local Amphur office. Additional documents as required by local officials may also be required.

Legal assistance

Upon entry into the Kingdom of Thailand, you become subject to local law and regulations. If you become involved in a dispute which could lead to a police or legal problem, ACS can provide you with a list of local attorneys who have indicated their willingness to provide legal assistance. Neither the ACS office nor the US Embassy can provide legal consul or pay for legal expenses. ACS will, however, do whatever possible to protect your legitimate interests and insure you are not discriminated against under local law.

Arrest and detention

If you are arrested, ask for permission to notify the US Embassy. If you are refused, politely insist that you be able to call the Embassy. Upon notification we will make every effort to visit you within 24 to 48 hours to inform you of your rights according to local laws, provide to you a list of attorneys, and upon your request contact friends or relatives to arrange for transfer of money, food, and clothing. Representatives from the ACS office will continue to monitor your case and visit on a monthly basis as long as you are incarcerated.

Destitution

Should you become destitute, the ACS office will assist in contacting your family or friends and explain how funds can be sent to you via the OCS Trust. If your money is lost or stolen we recommend that you notify the local police as soon as possible. Additionally, we recommend that you notify airlines, credit card companies and travelers check companies as appropriate should these items be lost or stolen.

Death, illness, injury

Should you be injured or become seriously ill while in Thailand, the ACS offices will assist you in finding an appropriate medical facility and inform family and friends at your request. In the event of the death of a US citizen in Thailand, the ACS office should be notified as soon as possible. We can assist in notifying next-of-kin, taking possession of personal effects, and arranging for the disposition of the remains. The ACS office will also issue a Consular Report of Death of an American Abroad. This document, which is based on the local death certificate, can be used to settle estate matters in the United States.

Notary services

The ACS office provides notary services for US citizens and all nationalities whose documents are related to business in the Untied States. Documents must be notarized in person and proper identification must be presented at the time the documentation is notarized. The current fee for notarization of documents is US$55.00 per notary.

Travel information

The ACS office has Consular Information Sheets (CIS) issued by the Department of State on nearly all countries in the world. The CIS contains information on entry requirements, crime and security conditions, areas of instability, and phone numbers and addresses of US embassies and consulates in the country. The ACS office also has the latest Travel Warnings issued by the Department of State when travel to a particular country is not considered safe because of civil unrest, dangerous conditions, or terrorist activities.

Federal benefits

The ACS office can provide basic information on federal benefits, including Social Security and Veteran’s benefits. The office can also assist you in applying for a Social Security card.

Other services

In addition to the above mentioned services, the ACS office can assist in:

* Absentee voting
* Providing Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax forms
* Selective Service registration

Some services NOT provided by the ACS office:

* Hotel and transportation reservations
* Obtaining foreign visas
* Performing or witnessing marriages
* Translating their documents

We hope the above information is helpful. In addition to this information sheet, the ACS office has more detailed information sheets on many of the services we provide. If you require additional information, please do not hesitate to visit, call or write our office.

By Plane, Train and Motor Cars

Air Lanka launches Paradise Package to Sri Lanka from November 1st 98 until March 31st 99. Starting as low as Baht 16,125 for 5 days/4 nights and Baht 23,650 for 8 days/7 nights.

The cost covers return air ticket, full board, star class accommodation, Airport transfers, air-con car with chauffeur/guide throughout tour in Sri Lanka, entrance fee to all places of interest and portage. These special packages are available through any travel agent or at Air Lanka office directly. Tel. 02-236 92 92-3, Fax: 02-236 76 17, E-mail: [email protected].

Nick Moore (2nd left), Manager Thailand and Boonsong Haruchaiyasak (far right), Commercial Manager of Qantas/British Airways are seen posing with staff and guests attending a thank you party for secretaries at the Planet Hollywood Restaurant. The party was aimed at thanking all secretaries who have been supporting the business and services of both airlines as well as strengthening the relationship between secretaries and airline staff.

New Zealand - experience the most enchanting season with a "Free & Easy Kiwi Holiday" from only Baht 25,900 from now until February 28th.

Bangkok - Christchurch, 5 days/4 nights: Baht 25,900.
Bangkok - Auckland, 5 days/4 nights: Baht 26,500.
Bangkok - Auckland - Christchurch, 6 days/4 nights: Baht 32,000.
Bangkok - Christchurch - Queenstown, 6 days/5 nights: Baht 31,000.

Every package includes return economy class airfare on Air New Zealand/Singapore Airlines between Bangkok and New Zealand, meet and greet service, return transfers airport-hotel, accommodation with daily breakfast, city tour. Contact New Zealand Tourism for more information about booking, tel. 02-231 64 50 or 56-7, Fax: 02-231 64 51.

Ocean Marina Yacht Club, managed by Dusit Hotels & Resorts, presents a package for only Baht 3,200 for single and 4,200 net for twin deluxe room for one night. The price includes a game of 27 holes at the Phoenix Golf Course, only 5 minutes away from the hotel. Late check out until 18:00 hours and free usage of all sports facilities of the hotel. For more information contact tel. 038-237 310-23 or tel. 02-636 3333.

Romantic Destinations

Kho Chang, the second largest island of Thailand, declared a Marine National Park in 1982, still has an untouched rainforest, virgin jungle with an exotic world of animals, idyllic waterfalls, surrounded by fascinating mountain-scopes and crystal clear water. It is one of the last paradises of nature in this world and still a legendary dream.

Plaloma Cliff Resort, located on the West Coast, is a typical family resort with personal service provided. The bungalows, constructed from natural materials, are skillfully blended into tropical gardens with huge palm trees, colorful flowers and a small zoo. Their restaurant, with an overwhelming sea view, serves the most delicious Thai cuisine and best European dishes. For reservations call Mr. James, tel. 01-323 01 64 or tel/fax: 039-597 060.

Air New Zealand supports New Zealand Food and Dance Festival, collaborating with Dusit Thani Hotel by sponsoring two round trip tickets route Bangkok - New Zealand. Photo shows: Ng Nai Shon (far left), Gerard Gilmore, H.E. Dr. Adrian Macey the New Zealand Ambassador, Kusa Panyarachun (far right), Yuwadee Pitawiwattananont (left) and Siriporn Kulthawat.

Airline News

Before the holiday season approached, DHL Worldwide Express was preparing to expand its delivery network to meet an anticipated increase in express shipments and to ensure reliable and uninterrupted service for customers. The expected scope of operations was based upon expected increases in customer volume over the busy holiday season. DHL typically delivered a full one-third of its total annual shipment volumes in November and December.

To meet the heightened demand, DHL increased flights of existing aircraft, securing additional capacity from cargo carrying airlines and hired additional temporary employees and temporarily moved some part-time employees to full-time status.

Emirates completes financing for ninth Boeing 777. The Emirates has recently signed a US$ 117.3 million financing agreement for the acquisition of the airline’s ninth Boeing 777-200 (IGW) to join the fleet. The aircraft is scheduled for delivery later this month. The financing is structures as a 12-year finance lease and is arranged by Emirates Bank International and Deutsche bank AG with the UK’s Export Credit Guarantee Department as the guarantor. The other lending banks are Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau, Deutsche Girozentral - Deutsche Kommunalbank, Landesbank Schleswig-Holstein International SA and the Sumitomo Bank Limited.

Emirates is expecting another two Boeing 777s to join its fleet by the end of 1999. The two aircraft are B777-300 versions on operating leases from the Singapore Aircraft Leasing Enterprise.

Happy participants at the last Volleyball Tournament in Hua Hin ham it up. The next big Amazing Volleyball Tournament of Club Aldiana in Hua Hin/Cha Am will be held on January 31st. The sponsors are Hotel Sophitel Central Hua Hin, TAT Hua Hin/Cha Am, Long Beach Hotel Cha Am. Since the last tournament held in December was a great success, all sponsors and the organizer are looking forward to this next tournament.

Indian Airlines offers exciting discounts on domestic Dollar fare tickets in effect from Nov. 1st 98 until March 31st 99. A 40% discount on its domestic US $ published fares in conjunction with its international sectors ex-South East Asia and Gulf. A 40% discount will be given on published US $ sector fares on one domestic sector immediately succeeding or preceding the gateway point in India. This discount will especially appeal to tourists and businessmen travelling on Indian Airlines international sectors in South East Asia and the Gulf and connecting domestic flights from/to gateway points. IA has also revised its winter schedule for the benefit of its travelling public. Please contact the airline offices for further information. Tel. 02-235 5534-5, Fax: 02-252 5256.

Qantas Airways has moved one step closer to the new millennium with the airline’s computer reservation system now processing bookings for travel on January 1st 2000 and beyond.

Qantas Chief Executive, James Strong, said that travel agents and Qantas staff around the world were successfully making Year 2000 bookings through the Qantas Universal Business Environment. "QUBE hold reservations for international and domestic customers up to 355 days in advance. We are delighted that exhaustive testing over the past 12 months has proven that QUBE is Year 2000 ready and each day it is providing our customers and industry partners with a high level of service. In any 24-hour period there can be more than 24,000 users logged-on to QUBE and an average of more than 8.5 million transactions recorded. In Australia, telephone sales consultants take more than 40,000 calls per day, which translates into more than 5,000 domestic and 700 international reservations," he added. Strong said also that Qantas was well advanced with a comprehensive $A 147 million program to achieve computer readiness in all areas of the airline for the Year 2000. Qantas has no plans to suspend services during the transition period 31st December 1999 - 1st January 2000. However, the airline may vary its flying patterns if it considers, for example, that the integrity of any airspace zone, air traffic control system or airport does not meet its stringent operational requirements.

Winds of Sri Lanka blow Pattaya way

The Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Thailand, H. E. Mr. Karunatilake Amunugama, took his first trip out of Bangkok recently - to Pattaya.

The Sri Lankan Ambassador Karunatilake Amungugama flanked by Chonburi Governor Sujarit Pachimanan and the Deputy Governor.

"Why Pattaya?" we at Pattaya Mail asked him when we met him amidst the glitter and festivity of Yuletide and the diffused lights of the plush Royal Cliff Beach Resort. The magic of the festive season was with the Ambassador, after a gala Christmas dinner under Pattaya skies at the Siam Bayshore Resort - as he said, a magnificently executed meal under the expert guidance of General Manager Hans Spoerri.

The Ambassador seemed keen to analyze. "The base of Pattaya is its tourism industry. Sri Lanka, being an island, has great stretches of beautiful beach and I felt it would benefit us to learn how Pattaya beaches are kept so clean, even with 3 million tourists who visit the area annually."

The visit to the office of Pattaya Mayor Pairat Suttithamrongsawat and the ensuing discussion with the Mayor made the Ambassador understand some of the behind-the-scenes work carried out by officials in keeping Pattaya attractive and peaceful for the visitors flocking here every day.

At the Royal Cliff Beach Resort (L to R): MD Pattaya Mail Peter Malhotra, Royal Cliff Beach Resort Executive Vice Pre4sident and General Manager Jean-Fermand Wasser, Ambassador Karanatilake Amungugama, Resident Manager Ranjith Chandrasiri, Mr. Anada Jayatilak, Mrs. Rajika Jayatilake (Counsellor), children Masters Yevin and Madara, Mrs. Amungugama and Mrs. Chandrasiri.

The Ambassador’s first visit along the way was to pay a courtesy call on the Governor of Chonburi Province, Mr. Sujarit Pachimanan, a visit described by Mr. Amunugama as "a long and fruitful discussion", also attended by the Deputy Governor. He described the Governor as "extremely friendly" and in particular with impressive public relations capability. The Governor had suggested that Chonburi’s well-developed handicraft industry could be the starting point of a mutually beneficial programme of cooperation between Chonburi Province and Sri Lanka. The Ambassador was quite optimistic about working out a programme where Sri Lanka’s craftsmen and women could learn the finer points of local handicraft.

The visit to the Laem Chabang Port and the most educative meeting with Deputy Managing Director of the Port, Mr. Worapote Supanakoon, was described by the Ambassador as "a journey that blended the past, present and the future." He was deeply impressed by the entire process of development of the Laem Chabang Port and considers it a useful example for Sri Lanka where ports are being developed in a similar manner.

Then came the rendezvous with the Sri Lankan community in Pattaya and the Managing Director of Pattaya Mail, Peter Malhotra. It was a meeting amidst festivity and joyousness and one where memories were made, especially in the company of Royal Cliff Beach Resort’s dynamic Resident Manager and fellow Sri Lankan Ranjith Chandrasiri.

As for Mr. Amunugama, he was quite happy to let the memories of Pattaya be his first glimpses into rural Thailand. Next on the cards is a visit to Chiang Mai at the invitation of His Majesty the King.

Deadly snakes - handle with care

by Apirat Muangsirikul (Add)

Every since he was a child, Dam Kukgua, 30, loved to go snake hunting with the adults in his village. Some types of snake were sold and other types were eaten. Dam says, "When I was a little boy, I would chose snake over chicken for dinner anytime."

When snakes became rare in his village, Dam and his friends would go hunting in nearby provinces to catch the slithery and sometimes deadly reptiles.

Watch your nose.

He was able to make a living catching snakes and selling the blood and bile to Korean tourists.

During this time, he had his two most important experiences with snakes, both large cobras. He was bitten, twice.

The first time, he was bitten on the thumb. Given a choice between his thumb or his life, Dam had to cut off his thumb. The second time he was not so lucky. The angry snake bit him on the inside of the arm. The flesh rapidly became gangrenous and he had to cut out a considerable amount of flesh to purge his system of the poison.

Dam said these experiences changed him from an overconfident young man to one with the utmost respect for poisonous snakes. It was shortly after that experience that he met with "elder brother" Bang, who was a professional snake handler and had a snake road show.

"I was lucky enough to meet Bang and become part of the snake show. He taught me to handle snakes in the proper manner. The most valuable thing he taught me was that bravado brings two things: praise from people and death from the snake. He also told me, ‘I’m not a snake charmer. No one can charm a snake.’ From him I learned how to handle snakes in a profitable and useful way. We did shows for people in which we milked the snakes’ venom. This fascinated people, as they could see the source of the snake’s lethalness. In Pattaya, we don’t do ‘scheduled’ shows. If someone wants to come in to see the snakes, they are welcome."

We talked to Bang, or Khun Noppadon Noibamrung (his proper name). Noppadon, 46, has been handling snakes all his life. After finishing his studies in Bangkok, he entered the entertainment field. He began by making boxes in which snakes were shipped to foreign countries. As he became more acquainted with snakes, a Japanese tourist saw his ability and invited him to Japan to help him hunt snakes. He decided to stay in Japan for 8 years.

"I took care of and showed large snakes in Japan with Bang," said Dam. "We worked as a team and our snake show became very popular in Japan. Bang always taught people not to bother snakes and snakes would not bother them."

The two thought of many ways to do chilling things with snakes, such as putting them in their mouths or kissing a Cobra’s head. Dam said he received many tips from foreigners.

"The snake show is open to both Thais and foreigners. We don’t charge a lot and if children with no money want to see the show, we don’t charge them at all." But do feel sorry for the handlers as they are risking their lives every time they handle a venomous snake. Even helping with the cost of the snake’s food would be appreciated.

Taking a look into to a different world

Exclusive by Gerhard Weronik

Khun Khwankeo Vajarodaya, for 52 years the private secretary of HM the King, accompanied by his wife Khun Wattana, his son Khun Thanit, the Director of the Royal Press and a group of 53 selected guests, followed by 5 TV teams, recently undertook a goodwill tour of the Northern Provinces of Thailand.

Khun Kwankeo persents hill tribe women with much needed necessities for daily life.

Khun Kwankeo, who studied in Switzerland, invited his best friend since school days, Mr. Vögele from Switzerland, along with his wife and I to join him on this tour, the only Farangs amongst the group.

Within only one week, we had visited up to 10 different locations daily and altogether more than 6,000 families, to present them with sleeping bags, clothing, sheets and all the necessities for daily life. This grand charity action was done by order of His Majesty the King with the intention of helping all people in Thailand, including those who live very far from Bangkok, like several hill tribes.

Currently, possibilities for education are restricted in these parts of the country. Most of the teachers there also work in the police and the army. Now, slowly, teachers who were working in big cities are coming back to help their own people. These circumstances give hope that the problem concerning the lack of teachers in these areas will soon be solved. The schools are not only teaching the people how to read and write, but trying to be a stepping-stone to master daily life. For example, the young people are also taught how to plant vegetables or how to sew.

Khun Kwankeo is also the Chairman of the Distance Learning Program, which was also called into existence by His Majesty. This program makes it possible for people who otherwise wouldn’t be able to get education to receive a daily 12 hour school program via TV. More than 40 Million Baht has been invested in this program since the start.

Khun Kwankeo stressed the point of the importance of this program in every speech he held, since it makes it possible for everyone to get proper education. An endeavor of this effort is also to raise the compulsory time of education from 6 to 12 years. Khun Kwankeo mentioned that, to reach this target, it would take a long time, maybe generations to change the old habits of thinking, since the people of Thailand are still bound to them, especially the hill tribes. Many of the villages near the borders with Laos and Burma still don’t have electricity or a water supply. Some of the people go through a daily struggle for simple survival, since organizations for social help don’t exist. To see thousands of people in that situation makes one very humble.

Not only presents were given to the people, however. Many places like hospitals - with a high rate of AIDS infected patients - leprosy stations, training centers for young people and temples were also visited.

We drove many hundreds of kilometers through the country and one road impressed me very much. The distance between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Song is only 300 km (120 km in a straight line), but it consists of 1,860 curves. No wonder Khun Kwankeo took a nap in the car whenever it was possible.

Besides the mammoth program, this journey was very educational for all participants, especially the Farangs amongst us, and I am very proud and happy I was honored to join it.

Insurance with a difference

by Justin Brierty

OK, so you’ve just arrived in Pattaya for your holiday and want a little bit of independence in getting around the place instead of relying solely on the unpredictable, and at times overpriced, baht buses. What other options are there? Well, you can try walking or hiring a push bike in 32-degree heat! There’s the car hire companies with "free air" to cool you down at a minimum of about a 1000bt per day, or there’s the more predictable choice of many: motorbikes.

From those colourful, glistening big bikes on Beach Road such as the CBR 400’s and big black choppers, to the smaller, nifty 100-150cc Honda Dreams, there’s a choice for everyone. What you must consider next when hiring a bike is that: 1) Does the agent offer insurance for any accident that might occur? 2) Do you have an appropriate international drivers license? (2000 baht fine otherwise) 3) Have you thoroughly checked the bike of its working order as well as any previous damage to the bike? (Scratches are a good money spinner for the agents, so beware). 4) What collateral do you have as a deposit? If funds are short at the time, you can negotiate for a copy of your passport to them (in all instances, avoid giving up your actual passport for negotiation) and 5) Have you read the contract properly? (If you are involved in an accident and you don’t have any insurance, the contract with the agent usually requires you to pay rental time for every day the bike isn’t on the road).

This minimal damage resulted in a repair bill of 17,000 baht.

As in previous instances, tourists and locals alike (including myself) have had to pay dearly for accidents. In my case, an overpriced repair bill of 17,000 baht was due, whilst in other cases, a total replacement of a bike at 100,000 baht has been required. Up until now, insurance for motorbikes has been nearly non-existent in Pattaya, but with the emergence of AIG Insurance, motorcycle rental outlets and tourists alike will no longer have an excuse to be at each other’s throats when an accident has occurred. According to AIG manager Ken Bisogno, "Our aim is to settle disputes as quickly as possible so that the tourist can get on with their holiday and the motorcycle company can get their bike back on the road for rental."

If you are involved in a major accident here, the first thing the police will do is impound both vehicles and bring both parties to the negotiating table at the station, whereby a settlement is usually agreed upon by both parties. If a settlement hasn’t been reached, then a lengthy and costly court case is inevitable. "What would you prefer in this instance? To be on your own or to have a bigger company represent you," suggests fellow AIG representative Matt McKenzie.

Whilst AIG offers a Tourist Liability insurance, it does not cover any medical expenses that are incurred. "If the tourist is at fault, then we will cover the costs of the damaged vehicle(s). However, the tourist must ensure that they have appropriate medical cover before they leave their home country."

With the tourist paying an excess of 3,000 baht of any claim, this is negligible compared to a potential bill of 45,000 or even 100,000 baht.

Operating now for approximately 2 months, AIG offers daily insurance for rentals from 100 baht per day for the smaller 100cc bikes, 200 baht for 150-500cc and 300 baht for 500cc and above. If you plan to stay here for a while, monthly rates can be arranged accordingly.

If you do have an accident without insurance, what will occur in most instances is that the motorcycle rental agent will require you to get the bike repaired by their mechanic at a much inflated price and of which you more than likely agreed to when you signed the contract.

It appears that more and more claims are coming in every day for AIG with lightning response time for settlements. One example being a settlement from a Christmas Eve accident in which AIG were notified on Christmas Day and had settlement the following day. Although it was a 31,000 baht claim of which the tourist paid 3,000 baht, everyone was happy at the end of the day.

So the next time you decide to hire a CBR 400 and ride at 140 kph along Second Road, think twice because the uninsured motorcycle operator is waiting just around the corner ready to collect your cash, along with the erratic baht bus driver, tour bus or three-wheeled carton collector.

If you would like to know more about motorcycle insurance coverage, contact AIG insurance on: Ph. 038-361-395; Fax 038-425-834, or E-mail [email protected]

Copyright 1998 Pattaya Mail Publishing Co.Ltd.
370/7-8 Pattaya Second Road, Pattaya City, Chonburi 20260, Thailand 
Tel.66-38 411 240-1, 413 240-1, Fax:66-38 427 596; e-mail: [email protected]
Created by Andy Gombaz, assisted by Chinnaporn Sangwanlek.