157cd2012

Continued page 3

4500 kip 4500 kip monday july 9, 2012 ISSuE 157

Vientiane TimesThe First national English language newspaper

www.vientianetimes.la

Inside

New buses ready to roll in Vientianepage 2

UN chief lauds peaceful, orderly Timor-Leste parliamentary electionpage 6

Jack’s country music strikes a chord with Lao fans page 22

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Somxay Sengdara

The United Nations has committed to further support public administration reform in Xieng Khuang province, aiming to build capacity within district administrations.

Assistant Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Laos, Ms Sudha Gooty, explained how UNDP’s support would continue during a visit last week to Xieng Khuang province’s Party Deputy Secretary and Organisational-Personnel Department Director, Ms Outhen Malixonxay.

“We’re running an operation expenditure programme that will help in providing social development capacity to manage operation expenditure across district administrations,” Ms Gooty said.

In mid-2004, the Lao government requested UNDP to support the development of a Governance and Public Administration Reform project (GPAR) in Xieng

un extends support for Xieng Khuang Khuang province. The project is seen as an opportunity to effect change in the delivery of government services, particularly in the agricultural and forestry sector, which will have an immediate and lasting impact on the livelihoods of vulnerable people.

One of the outstanding project activities is the One Door Service piloted in Paek district at the same office as the Citizen Information Centre.

According to provincial officials, the pilot project has improved coordination and ensured transparency in investment authorisation, and built public trust in the government.

Ms Gooty mentioned the possibility of providing similar services in other districts.

Another new initiative under the GPAR is the Community Participation Communication Support Programme through community radio. In this regard UNDP has mobilised US$1.6 million for the

Ms Sudha Gooty (second left) visits Khang Khai Market in Xieng Khuang province.

Times Reporters

US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will make an official visit to Laos to enhance bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries, according to a government press release.

Ms Clinton is scheduled to arrive in Laos on Wednesday July 11 for a one-day official visit, after an invitation from Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Dr Thongloun Sisoulith, the press release from the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

development of community radio in Xieng Khuang province from 2011 until 2014.

Ms Gooty said that building on the success of the Khoun community radio, she hopes a similar programme will be set up in

Nonghaed district by the end of this year.

Xieng Khuang is the first province Ms Gooty has visited since taking up her post at UNDP two months ago.

She visited UN-supported projects including the Khoun Community Radio

for Development and Khang Khai Market, the construction of which is supported by GPAR’s District Development Fund. She also visited Khang Khai Teacher College, and the Citizen Information and One Door Service Centres.

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to visit Laos

Times Reporters

Private investment in Laos saw an unexpected surge over the first six months of this fiscal year after the government launched its one stop registration service in October.

From October to March, the government approved 98 domestic and foreign investment projects with a total investment value of US$2 billion, 31 percent higher than originally forecast, according to a report from the Ministry of Planning and Investment.

The government had

Laos approves US$2b in investment projects this fiscal year

expected to approve only US$1.5 billion worth of investment projects this fiscal year, but after six months the approved investment value was already above the target figure. The increase was attributed to the improved services provided for investors.

The government launched the one stop investment service to make it easier for local and foreign businesses to obtain permission to invest in a concession project.

In the past, businesses had to visit many ministries and officials before getting

investment permission from the government. This not only wasted time but became an expensive exercise.

The government has now amended a number of laws and regulations to facilitate private investment after realising that the private sector is a major driver of economic growth and sustainable development.

Mining, hydropower and agriculture remained the top three industries of choice for investors in the first half of the fiscal year.

According to the report from the Planning and

M’sian domestic demand expected to slow in Q2pageB

2 Vientiane Times

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Sisouphan Amphonephong

Members of the public joined with officials and industry executives last Thursday for a rally and helmet handover ceremony at Chao Anouvong Park in Vientiane.

The event aimed to promote driving safety and encourage people to recognise the need for children to wear safety helmets when riding motorbikes with their parents.

Some 1,000 children’s safety helmets, 250 T-shirts and 50 safety posters, valued at 65 million kip, were generously donated by the Thai Foundation for Responsible Drinking and

Campaign advocates safety helmets for children

Children and their parents

take part in the road safety campaign.

Head-Care Club. The rally, held under the

slogan ‘Wearing Helmets for Kids’, featured 100 motorcycles with parents and helmeted children riding along main roads in Vientiane, circling the Patouxay Monument and returning to Chao Anouvong Park.

This is the second year of public support by the foundation for driving safety. The theme for the first year discouraged people from drinking and driving. This year it is the protection of children’s lives through the wearing of safety helmets.

The event was attended by representatives of line

ministries, companies and the Asian Handicapped Development Organisation, to show their support for the campaign.

Secretary of the Thai Foundation for Responsible Drinking and Head-Care Club, Dr Thaejing Siriphanich, thanked their Lao colleagues for collaborating in the campaign and said that the helmets donated would greatly benefit children, saving lives and reducing injuries.

The event was organised in collaboration with the Vientiane Administration Office, whose chief officer, Mr Bountha Sengdara, was present on the day.

Phoonsab Thevongsa

The Vientiane Capital State Bus Enterprise (VCSBE) on Friday put 42 new buses into service, after they were donated by Japan to improve public transport in the capital.

The 42 buses, worth 500 million yen or (about US$6 million) were given by the people and government of Japan through the Japanese International Cooperation Agency in Laos.

VCSBE Director Mr Khamphoune Temerath said “The buses will run on various routes. Seven will run to Dongdok, 10 to the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge, six on the Phonetong-Dondok route, while six will service Thangon, and four will run to

new buses ready to roll in Vientiane

Mr Khamphoune Temerath (first left) stands with Head of the Japanese International Cooperation Agency in Laos, Mr Togawa Masato (centre), and a Japanese expert.

Thongpong. The other buses will be

used on the Dongkhamxang, Nongteng and Nongtha routes which are still under construction.

The 45-seater buses have air conditioning and will run from 6am till 5:30pm with services every 15, 25 or 30 minutes.

Traffic jams are increasing in Vientiane as the size of the city and its population increases. However, the number of people using public transport remains low.

VCSBE plans to use an electronic payment system on the new buses, as part of the projects under the National Strategy on Sustainable Transport and particularly under the Vientiane Urban

Transport Master Plan set up with JICA assistance in 2008. These projects are seen as greatly helping national socio-economic development.

Mr Khamphoune said “When we get these buses in service on all the routes I’m sure they will not only help to ease traffic congestion, but will also reduce carbon emissions by lowering the number of personal vehicles on the roads. If more people use public transport it might also lead to a reduction in road accidents.”

“We believe that having more buses in service in Vientiane will encourage more people to use public transport instead of motorbikes and cars, which are creating traffic jams.”

Bounfaeng Phaymanivong

Khualuang village in Chanthabouly district, Vientiane, has become a pilot site for model sanitation in response to the drive to create a clean, green and beautiful capital city.

The Community Based Sanitation (CBS) project under the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Laos Pilot Programme for Narrowing the Development Gap towards Asean Integration (LPP Project) was officially handed over to local authorities on Friday after completion.

JICA Laos Office Senior Representative Mr Masahiko Takizawa, Chanthabouly district and local authorities attended the handover ceremony at Khualuang temple.

The Community Based Sanitation project aims to improve surface water quality in the drainage canal and sanitation conditions in the village through the installation of a CBS System.

It will also be an indicator to enhance people’s awareness of the need to improve the sanitation of public water resources and

JICA improves sanitation for Vientiane community

Lao and JICA officials pose for a group photo at Vat Khualuang temple during the handover ceremony last Friday.

will demonstrate a clean technology approach to the public through the LPP pilot project.

Construction of the project was funded by JICA with more than US$80,000. An agreement for the venture was signed last November and construction was completed in March 2012, based on Japanese Technical Cooperation for the clean, green and beautiful model community project.

Construction was carried out by the Lao Institute of Renewable Energy using Decentralised Wastewater Treatment System technology

from Germany.The system has been

installed at Khualuang temple and aims to improve sanitation conditions in the area by processing human waste and everyday grey water discharged from households. The water quality of the Pasak canal should also improve.

The Khualuang community was selected as a pilot site in response to the Clean, Green, Beautiful and Model Community that relates to Environmentally Sustainable City programme, which is one of the three components of the LPP project.

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Khonesavanh Latsaphao

Over 50 lawyers from the Lao Bar Association (LBA) convened in Vientiane on Thursday to learn how they should comply with the Law on Bar Association, following its enactment by the National Assembly earlier this year.

Prior to the law being passed by the National Assembly, the LBA provided legal services under a prime ministerial decree that was

Lawyers urged to comply with Law on Bar Association

issued in 1996.The Association’s meeting

from July 3-5 explained how the law related to the Resolution of the 9th Party Congress and why it was important to comply with it.

After LBA members heard a brief outline of the 69 articles contained in the law, Association Vice Chairman Mr Viengsavanh Phanthaly, who chaired the meeting, opened the floor for members to share their ideas on how the

law could be implemented. During discussions,

LBA lawyers advised that it was essential for lawyers to behave ethically in carrying out their work on behalf of their clients.

Director of the Justice Department under the Ministry of Justice, Ms Bounphone Heuangmany, advised Mr Viengsavanh that lawyers must provide legal advice and assistance when asked to do so as it was a basic human right.

She also commented that as they are required to provide legal counsel they must behave ethically towards those who need their services.

However, if some people are facing lawsuits that could be potentially damaging to the country, the lawyers should consider their positions carefully.

“Clients who use the services of the LBA must pay for them in line with the agreement drawn up between the lawyer and his client,” she said.

The LBA has a policy of not charging poor people for legal services.

The Association plans to ensure that Lao citizens are aware of the Law on Bar Association, and also wants to encourage more people to use LBA members to mediate on their behalf in legal cases.

Ms Bounphone told Vientiane Times that people throughout Laos are quite familiar with the Lao Bar Association, but the practice of engaging lawyers is not common as it is in other countries. One reason for the reluctance to hire a lawyer is because LBA members lack experience.

Investment Ministry, one of the most significant investment projects is the US$1.3 billion iron ore mining operation in the southern province of Xekong and the US$199 million Xepian-Xenamnoy hydropower project in Champassak province.

The growing amount of investment funding and projects will play a significant role in boosting economic growth and creating jobs over the next five years.

The government plans to achieve an economic growth rate of 8.3 percent next fiscal year and maintain that level until 2015.

Over the first six months of the 2011/2012 fiscal year, Laos received US$2.6 billion in investment capital. US$605 million of this was in cash and transferred to Laos through commercial banks while the rest was supplied in the form of materials.

Laos has to import a large amount of construction

materials, machinery and trucks to build mining and hydropower plants, as the country is unable to supply these goods.

The government said it would achieve 8 percent economic growth this fiscal year, about 0.3 percent less than earlier forecast after flooding severely damaged agricultural production bases last year. Construction of facilities and infrastructure to host the Asia-Europe Meeting Summit has also bolstered

Laos approves US$2b... FROM PAGE 1

Bounfaeng Phaymanivong

Laos and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea last week agreed to set up cooperation between their trade unions.

The Lao Federation of Trade Unions (LFTU) met a delegation from the General Federation of Trade Unions of Korea (GFTUK) during a visit to Laos from July 5-8, in which the two sides agreed to further annual exchange visits by high-ranking officials and

laos, dPRK boost trade union cooperation

High-ranking officials from the two federations meet last Thursday in Vientiane.

technical personnel.LFTU International

Relations Department Director General Mr Khamtanh Sorphimmavong told Vientiane Times the two federations had already been working together for many years.

“We’ve been cooperating for a long time but 1999-2000 was a remarkable year, and since then we have enhanced cooperation and made frequent visits to each other almost every year,” he said.

“During the meeting

last Thursday in Vientiane, we agreed to support each other on the international stage as well as to exchange information about movements between the two trade union federations, and GFTUK invited Lao representative delegates to visit them in 2014,” Mr Khamtanh said.

The high-ranking GFTUK delegation was led by Vice President Han U Phal in the meeting with LFTU Vice President Mr Tongyeyang Yongseng and other senior union officials.

Souksakhone Vaenkeo

The Vientiane authority has asked foreigners who are currently operating fish and pig farms in the capital illegally to obtain the necessary documents to legalise their business.

The Vientiane Taskforce Committee in charge of regulating foreigners working and trading in the capital reported that nationals of a neighbouring country are illegally raising 1,055 cages of fish in Xaythany district.

Officials reported the findings of their latest investigation at a two-day meeting held in Vientiane last week to discuss measures to regulate foreigners working and trading in the capital.

The officials also found 38 pig farms containing more than 19,000 pigs, which were being illegally operated by foreigners in Naxaithong district.

Director of the Vientiane Labour and Social Welfare Department and a member of the taskforce, Mr Vilasack Nammounty, told the Vientiane Times yesterday

that foreigners were operating these farms without having obtained a business licence from the government agencies concerned.

Officials noted that foreigners were raising pigs without complying with safety standards, and suggested that some were feeding their pigs certain chemicals to make them grow faster, which could be harmful to human health.

The officials warned the foreigners and gave them documents to sign that required them to obtain the paperwork to legalise their business. The documents also obliged them to comply with safety standards in line with the relevant laws and regulations.

Measures to legalise such unauthorised activities are being carried out in line with the government’s resolution on regulating foreigners working and trading in Laos, Mr Vilasack said.

The resolution, which was approved in March last year, stipulates that foreigners found to be running businesses such as fish and pig farms without government

permission may apply for legalisation if the value of their business amounts to one billion kip.

Those whose business value is below one billion kip but not less than 250 million kip will be given a two-year period to grow their business to one billion kip, then apply for legalisation.

Those who fail to meet the requirements must return to their country of origin, according to the resolution.

Mr Vilasack said these illegal business operations had not been conducted in line with the country’s laws and regulations.

Some operators had entered Laos as tourists, while some entered as legal workers with development projects but did not return home after the projects ended. Instead, they stayed on in Laos to run some kind of business.

The Vientiane authority and relevant ministries have been working closely together to address the issue, hoping to make use of lessons learnt in Vientiane to extend the regulation of such issues countrywide.

Vientiane clamps down on illegal pig, fish farmers

4 Vientiane Times

News in BriefHome news Monday July 9, 2012

VaCanCy announCEmEnT – FInanCE manaGER

The Riverside Boutique Resort, Vang Vieng, is a new 32-room luxury resort facing the Nam Son River. It includesa restaurant, a souvenir shop, a conference room and a swimming pool. Its objective is to offer an international level of services in a traditional Lao style and in a way that takes full advantage, but also preserves the unique environment of Vang Vieng. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/Riversidevangvieng

The Riverside Boutique Resort operates under international management and is committed to provide its employees with development opportunities, including training in modern hospitality practices. It is currently looking for a motivated FInanCE manaGER and aCCounTanT

KEy RESPonSIBIlITIES oF FInanCE manaGER• Organizing the work of the finance staff.• Ensuring effective and accurate financial resources management and oversight.• Ensuring proper control of the Resort accounts.• Ensuring proper cash management.• Regular reporting to management.

ComPETEnCIES oF manaGER• Very good knowledge of accounting.• Ability to formulate and manage budgets, manage transactions, conduct financial analysis

and reporting.• Attention to details.• Demonstrated integrity and ethical standards.

QualIFICaTIonS oF manaGER• Degree in Finance, Business Administration, Public Administration, Economics or related field.• 3 years of relevant experience in financial management • spoken and written English.• Experience in the usage of computers and office software.

Attractive remuneration and benefit packages are offered for this position based on the qualifications and experience of the candidates.For a more detailed job description or to apply,

please contact us by email at: [email protected] by phone to: 020 55516735 or 5555 8500

applicants will be requested to provide a short letter explaining why they want to work with us and indicating their current salary level, as well as a recent resume describing

their work experience.

Allianz General Lao (AGL) is the leading insurance company in Laos. AGL is a joint venture between the Lao government and the Allianz France International. With over 20 years experience in Laos, the AGL enjoys a very good reputation among local and international customers. We provide friendly work environment, mixture of different culture and competitive salary. Now, we are looking for dynamic employees to join with us in Headquarter office in Vientiane as below positions:

Helpline (1 position)Responsibility

Work on-duty at night time (from 17h00pm to 08h00am) to receive emergency calls and advice the insured by phone in case of the accident

Inform and follow up adjusters going to accident site; record the time of the intervention of the adjusters. Follow-up claim documents from Adjusters & file into the claim file before forwarding to Open File Unit. Key-in required data into Motor Claims System accordingly and accurately to the info. received from

clients and/or adjusters to the IT System for further actions of following functions. Provide necessary assistance to the client via telephone in case of emergency e.g accident happened in

remote area, etc. Perform others works as advised by HoD.

Qualifications:

BA in Business Administration/ English studies. BA in equivalent in Law or Communication Science is a plus At least 1 years experiences in the above nature of work. Experience in the field of Traffic Safety or similar responsibilities will be considered as a plus. Male between 25-30 years old with good health. Computer skills e.g. MS Word, MS Excel, MS Outlook (Email), etc. Good command of written and spoken

English. Good personality, willing to learn and be able to work in team. Be able to work in a dynamic & under pressure environment. Be able to deal with shortcoming and handle problem solving on the telephone. Patience, Polite & Friendliness as to work with multicultural and discipline clients.

Receptionist 2 positions: (1 French Speaker & 1 English Speaker)duties and Responsibilities:

Handle any incoming calls and make any necessary outgoing calls as required Provide accurate information to customers regarding AGL products Communicate any information necessary to the head of Administration. Check and control office stationery everyday and prepare stationery report to head of Administration. Ring the admin bill every time in and out Make Photocopies of all documents as requested by employees Prepare stock report and distribute stock materials in case Admin Assistant is absent. Perform other works as advice by Head of Department

Qualifications:

Female with good-looking appearance and Lao nationality aged 20-30 years old Higher Diploma or Bachelor Degree in arts of English or French Good command of English or French and Excellent communication and interpersonal skill Computer skills (MS Word and Excel and email)

aGl offers: Competitive salary Great career progress opportunities Comprehensive on job training a friendly and supportive work environment

Interested applicants meeting the above requirements should submit his/her resume including cover letter describing suitability for the role, career aspiration and salary expectation, and soft copied certificates to AGL Human Resources Department. Address: 33 Lane Xang Avenue, ANZ Bank, Vientiane Commercial Building, 2F P.O. Box 4223 Vientiane, lao PdR, Tel: (21) 215903; Fax : (21) 215904E-mail: [email protected] Closing date: 19th July 2012

Times Reporters

The latest batch of Korea Overseas Volunteers (KOVs) arrived at Vientiane’s Wattay International Airport on Thursday to take up their missions in Laos.

According to the KOICA Lao Office, the new 12

Korean volunteers begin new missions in laos

volunteers will be assigned to various provinces such as Savannakhet, Luang Namtha and Borikhamxay.

The KOICA Lao Office will give a special training programme for these volunteers focusing mainly on learning and understanding the Lao

Korean volunteers pose on arrival at Wattay International Airport.

language, history, culture and economy, as well as aiming to familiarise them with their new working environment.

Currently, about 54 Korean volunteers are actively working in various government sectors. Since 2000, KOICA has been

dispatching volunteers regularly to Laos.

KOICA is committed to increasing the number of volunteers in Laos to share Korean expertise and knowledge for practical contributions to the socio-economic development of Laos.

Saravan to boost education standards Saravan, Vapy and Lakhonpheng district education and sports offices are gearing up to improve standards in primary and secondary schools, especially in relation to the quality of teaching. Provincial Education and Sports Department Deputy Director Mr Sirisack said at a recent meeting to review the progress and challenging issues of last academic year that the offices will ask development partners and donors to develop teachers’ skills through training courses. Assistance is also needed to renovate schools and buying educational supplies for the needy students in rural areas. Mr Sirisack said the department will work closely with local authorities and children’s parents associations to help improve the education system. Although the education office has received assistance from several partners, it is still short of funds to carry out repairs to school equipment and facilities, especially in rural areas. More resources are needed to enable schools to pay administrators and train teachers both locally and in other provinces, the department reported.

Farmers in Vientiane province on track with rice planting Farmers in many districts of Vientiane province are busy planting wet season rice, with 70-75 percent of the targeted 1,000 hectares already planted. Farmers have planted more than 700 hectares of rice seedlings, with the expectation of harvesting more than 2,000 tonnes. However, some farmers in Kasy and Hinheup districts are struggling to plant and grow crops because of water shortages. Farmers around the province are expected to finish planting wet season crops by the end of this month.

More rural Khammuan residents get access to clean waterMore people in Nongbok and Boualapha districts in Khammuan province now have access to clean water for daily use thanks to support from donors and NGOs. According to a report from local authorities recently, the new water supply system is helping people involved in farming and animal breeding. In the past, villagers had to use unclean water every day, which led to an increased risk of disease. The new water supply system means women and children no longer have to carry water over long distances. However, hundreds of households still use unclean water. The provincial authorities plan to seek funding from local businesses to build more water supply systems for other villages in the province.

Vientiane Times 5Monday July 9, 2012 Photo news

Vacancy notice

The World Health Organization has a vacancy for the position of:

agreement for Performance of Work (aPW)Laboratory (Influenza Virology Expert)

The consultant will be based at the National Centre for Laboratory and Epidemiology (NCLE), Vientiane, Lao PDR and provide daily hand-on training on a day-to-day basis report to, and guided by, the WHO Representative office. In collaboration with NCLE of Ministry of Health of Lao PDR, the Emerging Disease, Surveillance and Response (ESR) team and the WHO Representative. The consultant will conduct the following activities and submit progress report for each activity at the end of every month.

• Assist in the writing (or revision), developing training materials of and implementation of standard laboratory operating procedures on PCR Testing, Quality Assurance, Bio-safety, Specimen collection and others as required in collaboration with partners (Product: Reviewed SOP and training report).

• Provide necessary oversight, training, and technical assistance to the virology laboratory in NCLE on the development of influenza surveillance capacities including conventional and Real-Time-PCR, hemagglutination inhibition, cell cultures, virus isolation, serologic tests and sequencing so that the virology laboratory can function according to WHO’s terms of references for a National Influenza Centre (Product: Training report, Laboratory test report)

• Provide technical guidance and training to the sentinel network on specimen collection, transportation, storage, bio-safety and laboratory quality management (Product: Training report, Laboratory test report) and for expansion of the network to include other diseases e.g. dengue.

• Liaise between NCLE and reference laboratories for influenza this includes WHO Collaborating Centres on Influenza, reference laboratories on H5, and other National Influenza Centres as necessary. Assist in formalizing links between laboratories (Meeting minutes and communication summary)

• Assist NCLE in evaluating different Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for NCLE, planning for implementation of a national system, data management, analysis, interpretation, reporting of laboratory and surveillance data, including contributing to preparation of presentations and publications, and linking laboratory and epidemiology information,

• Assist NCLE in the setting up of national laboratory network with focus on virology including contributing to network guidance document and providing other technical assistance as required e.g. development of SOPs and standard forms required for the network.

• Assist NCLE with developing and managing technology and resource sharing and exchanges with other partners, like National Animal Health Center, NIID Tokyo, Welcome Trust, USCDC-IEIP/Bangkok, and USCDC Atlanta.

• Assist in Laboratory Management, such as assessing operational costing in managing laboratory activities, budgetary estimations of equipment, reagent, and designing laboratory management practices including setting up systems, specifically (i) for material inventory and procurement in liaison with partners such as the USCDC-THAI (IEIP) Collaboration and USCDC Atlanta (Product: Monthly update of the procurement inventory and training report);

• Perform other duties as required by the WHO representative in Lao PDR in the related laboratory work area (Monthly report)

duration: 1 year Education: Essential: University degree in health sciences or laboratory sciences or relevant areas.desirable: Postgraduate degree or training in virology and molecular biology desirable.

Experience:Essential: At least 5 years experience of training on laboratory theory and practice in virology and molecular biology, preferably in a large or international organization or multinational corporation. desirable: Experience in working for public health laboratory function, planning implementation and monitoring of activities at a national level work plan such as an annual national laboratory work plan.language: Excellent knowledge of local languages (reading, speaking) and English (reading, speaking, writing)

other skills: Proficiency in standard MS Office applications.

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit applications in the English language, with curriculum vitae by 16 july 2012 to:

The World Health Organization125 Saphanthong Road,Unit 5 Ban Saphanthong Tai,Sisathanak District.P.O. Box 343 Vientiane, Lao P.D.R.Fax: (856) 21 353905Tel: (856) 21 353902-904Email: [email protected]

Vacancy notice


agreement for Performance of Work (aPW)laboratory (Bacteriology Expert)

The APW will be based at the National Centre for Laboratory and Epidemiology, Vientiane, Lao PDR and provide daily hand-on training on a day-to-day basis report to, and guided by, the WHO Representative office. In collaboration with the National Centre for Laboratory and Epidemiology (NCLE), Ministry of Health of Lao PDR, the WHO Representative, and the Emerging Disease, Surveillance and Response (ESR) team, the APW will conduct the following activities and submit progress report for each activity at the end of every month.

• Assist NCLE in developing, reviewing and implementing standard laboratory operating procedures on Bacterial Testing, Quality Management, Bio-safety, and Specimen collection (Product: Reviewed SOP and training report) in collaboration with WHO international staff and partners

• Assist in Laboratory Management, including setting up systems of material procurement inventory and procurement• Assist NCLE in development of network documents e.g. SOPs and standard forms required for the network with

focus on bacteriology• Assist NCLE in discussion of different Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for NCLE and planning

for implementation of a national system. • Provide necessary oversight, training, and technical assistance to the bacteriology laboratory in NCLE including

Bacterial culture of clinical specimens by using appropriate culture media, Identification of isolated microorganism using different biochemical tests and procedures, Serologic typing sera, Susceptibility testing of identified bacteria and bacterial PCR. (Training report, Laboratory test report)

• Provide technical guidance and training to the sentinel network on specimen collection, transportation, storage, and bio-safety (Training report, Laboratory test report)

• Liaise between NCLE and WHO Collaborating Centres on bacteria, reference laboratories, and other organization as necessary and help in formalizing links between laboratories (Meeting minutes and communication summary)

• Submit monthly report with laboratory test results achieved• Perform other duties as required by the WHO representative in Lao PDR in the related laboratory work area (Monthly

report)

duration: 1 year

Education: Essential: University degree in health sciences or laboratory sciences or relevant areas.desirable: Training in bacteriology desirable.

Experience:Essential: At least 5 years experience of training on laboratory theory and practice in bacteriology, serology and molecular biology, preferably in a large or international organization or multinational corporation. desirable: Experience in working for public health laboratory function, planning implementation and monitoring of activities at a national level work plan such as an annual national laboratory work plan.

language: Excellent knowledge of local languages (reading, speaking) and English (reading, speaking, writing)

other skills:Proficiency in standard MS Office applications.Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit applications in the English language, with curriculum vitae by 15 july 2012 to: The World Health Organization 125 Saphanthong Road, Unit 5 Ban Saphanthong Tai, Sisathanak District. P.O. Box 343, Vientiane, Lao P.D.R. Fax: (856) 21 353905 Tel: (856) 21 353902-904 E-mail: [email protected]

Large holes have appeared in the road leading to Ammone Temple in Sisattanak district. The authorities and the relevant sector should resurface the road and motorbike riders need to take care in this area.

Workers cut grass at the National University of Laos last week. The clean-up job will deter mosquitoes and improve the appearance of the university before the new term begins.

Visitors take photos of statues of a farmer, soldier and a worker at the Lao People’s Army Museum in Vientiane. Army officials visited the museum last week to boost visitor interest in the facility.

Lao Ford City unveils the Ford-F150 pick-up truck on Friday at the Lao Ford City Showroom in Vientiane. The F-150 comes in a 4.6l configuration and a 5.4l V8 paired with four-speed automatic transmission. Ford’s F series has enjoyed long term popularity in the US, selling continuously for over six decades

6 Vientiane Times

In brief from Asia News Network

RegionMonday July 9, 2012


Special Services AgreementA) Overall objective:To provide administrative and management support to priority health financing and human resources for health activities to the WHO country office in Lao PDR

B) Timeline: 11 July to 10 August 2012

C) Duties:1. Support the finalization of Out of Pocket Expenditure (OOP) study in close collaboration with the National Institute of Public Health and

the Ministry of Health o Follow up with the authors of the study for the revision of the national report in line with new data/graphs from a regional comparative

paper – and ensure a timely delivery of the revision; o Support the administrative process for the editing of the English version; translation of the final version into Lao; printing and distribution

of the report in both Lao and English.2. Assist in the completion of the National Health Accounts - NHA 2009/2010 - in close collaboration with the Ministry of Healtho Follow up with the consultant and national team for the finalization of data review, report update and editing - and ensure a timely delivery

of the final report;o Support the administrative process for the translation of the report into Lao; printing and distribution of the report in both Lao and English.3. Support the endorsement process and dissemination of the Health Financing Strategy o Follow up the process with the Ministry of Health; o Support the administrative process for the translation of the Strategy into Lao; printing and distribution of the Strategy in both Lao and English;o Follow up with the consultant in charge of updating the costing of the Health Financing Strategy and ensure a timely delivery of the final

costing work (to be added as an addendum to the Health Financing Strategy document).4. Assist in the follow up and reporting of progress on the approval and implementation of the National Health Insurance Decreeo Follow up with the Ministry of Health and related ministries/authorities (including attendance of relevant meetings); o Support the administrative process for the translation of the Decree into English; 5. Support the ILO-WHO project on Social Health Protectiono Assist in the completion and endorsement of the project documents (including budget and memorandum of understanding);o Organize the preparations for the launch of the project in early August 2012 in close collaboration with the International Labour

Organization, Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare and the Ministry of Health. 6. Provide support to WHO and its counterparts (particularly the MoH) in all Human Resources for Health (HRH) related strategy, planning,

implementation, monitoring & evaluation support activities (including HRH data analysis). 7. Support the MoH technical departments / units to complete Statement of Expenditures (SOEs) and technical reports as related to Direct

Funding Contributions (DFCs) provided by WHO.8. Perform other related duties as may be required.

D) RequirementsEducation:o University degree in social sciences or health sciences from a recognized university, preferably in the field of health management or

health financing.

Knowledge & skills:o Broad knowledge in programme/project planning, project management, implementation, monitoring and evaluation in health systems

and preferably on social health protection. o Excellent interpersonal and communication skills o Ability to maintain a high standard of professional and personal conduct

Experience:o Minimum of one year of experience in programme development, in areas relevant to health, preferably working with international

organizations and in providing technical and administrative support to government counterparts.

Language: o Excellent knowledge of spoken and written English and local language.

Other skills: o Computer applications: Office (Word, Excel, Power Point, Access).

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit expressions of interest in English language, with curriculum vitae and cover letter by 10 July 2012.

Addressed to:Dr. Valeria de Oliveira CruzTechnical OfficerWorld Health Organization125 Saphanthong Road, Unit 5, Ban Saphanthong Tai,Sissathanak District. Vientiane, Lao P.D.R.Fax: (856) 21 353 905Tel: (856) 21 353 902-904Email: [email protected]

Vacancy notice

The French Red Cross delegation in Lao PDR is seeking 1 competent Lao national to fulfil the position of “Finance and Logistic Assistant” based in Xienghone district, Sayabouri Province.

Position: Finance and Logistic Assistant Place of assignment: XienghoneLanguage required: Lao with good knowledge in English or FrenchQualification: University degree related fieldsStarting date: As soon as possibleDuration: One year with possible extensionHow to apply: Send a CV plus motivation letter mentioning to French Red Cross Application deadline: As soon as appropriate candidate identified

The French Red Cross (FRC), in partnership with the Lao Red Cross (LRC), will be implementing two Food Security projects in Hongsa and Xienghone districts of Sayabouri Province. Duration of the project: Until mid 2014

KEY RESPONSIBILITIESUnder the supervision of the Food Security Project Manager, and in coordination with the Finance and Logistics team in Hongsa and in Vientiane, the Logistics officer will have the following responsibilities:LOGISTICS:• Identify suppliers for all equipment and supplies to be purchased locally• Coordinate deliveries and control delivered supplies and material• Assist the Project Manager during distributions• Supervise storekeeper to ensure proper warehousing conditions and accurate records• Maintain inventory of all FRC equipment• Supervise the maintenance of office premises and equipmentsFINANCE:• Cash management: make treasury forecasts and ensure payment of all invoices and advances;• Ensure bookkeeping of all transactions as well as budget lines allocations of the expenses;• Ensure administrative follow-up of the base personnel FRC ;• Liaise with the district administration;• Translate documents when required.

REQUIREMENTS• At least 3 years experience in project logistics and/or finance, preferably with international

organizations,• University degree in relevant fields,• Fluency in written and spoken Lao and French or English,• Good organizational skills,• Proven knowledge of computer office applications,• Ability to work as a team and produce good work in a short time or under stress,• Capacity to live in a remote area,• Car and motorcycle driving licence. • Experience in working with Government agencies.

CONDITIONSSalary: between 5 200 000 and 5 400 000 KIP following experience and competenciesSpecific Bonus: insurance, allowance for accommodation, 13th month bonus

Job Description: Finance and logistic assistant

Interested applicants should send their CV and cover letter until the18th of July 2012 to [email protected] under the reference “Xienghone admin-log”.Only short listed candidates will be contacted within 10 days after the closing date.FRC is an equal opportunity employer. Women and ethnic minority candidates are thus strongly encouraged to apply.

Urban fund to help Vietnam cities developHCM CITY (Viet Nam News) -- A draft national urban development programme that includes the creation of an urban development investment fund and development of so-called intelligent urban areas has been submitted by the Ministry of Construction to the Prime Minister for approval. Under the plan, Vietnam would strive to achieve an urbanisation rate of 38 percent, with 870 urban areas by 2015, and a 45 percent rate, with 940 urban areas, by 2020.

Japan to offer aid to AfghanistanJAPAN (The Yomiuri Shimbun) --The Japanese government decided Friday to contribute about 3 billion dollars in aid to Afghanistan over five years through 2016 to help the war-torn country develop its economy and maintain security, government sources said. Foreign Minister Koichiro Gemba will announce the plan at a meeting of countries offering assistance to Afghanistan set for Sunday in Tokyo.

UNITED NATIONS (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Saturday congratulated Timor-Leste on the “peaceful and orderly” parliamentary election.

A statement, issued by Ban’s spokesman here late Saturday, said “the secretary-general congratulates the people, government and political parties of Timor-Leste on the peaceful and orderly manner in which today’s parliamentary election

un chief lauds peaceful, orderly Timor-leste parliamentary election

An East Timorese woman casts her ballot during the parliamentary election at a polling station on Saturday. --Photo AP

was held.”“The secretary-general

commends the national authorities, particularly the Technical Secretariat for Electoral Administration and the National Electoral Commission, for organizing and supervising the polling, and the National Police of Timor-Leste for maintaining a stable environment throughout the electoral process,” the statement said.

“The secretary-general

trusts that the same peaceful and democratic spirit which characterized today’s elections will prevail during the vote counting and subsequent announcement of the election results,” said the statement.

“The successful conduct of the 2012 presidential and parliamentary elections further consolidate the progress made by Timor-Leste since the restoration of independence 10 years ago,” it said.

YANGON (Xinhua) -- At least eight foreign airlines have planned to resume flights to Myanmar along with changes in the country following the country’s landmark by-elections on April 1.

They are Japan’s All Nippon Airways, Qatar Airways, Sri Lankan Airline, Bangladesh’s Biman Airline, Hong Kong Express Airline, Pakistan International Airline, Korean Air and Chinese Taipei- based EVA Airline.

The Japanese All Nippon Airline will resume flight between Tokyo and Yangon in September after stopping for 12 years.

Using Boeing 737-700ER, the airline will operate the Narita- Yangon--Narita flight three times a week, and the charter flights of Tokyo-Yangon and Nay Pyi Taw-Yangon-Hanoi-Tokyo will also be launched by using Boeing 767.

From 1996 to 2000, the airline operated direct flight between Osaka and Yangon three times a week. For the past 12 years, Japanese visitors had to travel to Myanmar via Bangkok or Singapore when the airline suspended its Yangon flight.

Qatar Airways, which had suspended its flight for nearly four years, will also resume flights between Yangon and Doha by Oct. 3, with three flights a week and the schedule

More foreign airlines plan flight resumption to Myanmar

will change to a daily service on Oct. 28, using A-319 and A-320 aircraft.

Qatar Airways signed a bilateral airways contract with Myanmar in 2004 to start operating Doha-Yangon-Doha flight four times a week starting January 2005 until it stopped its flight in January 2008.

Sri Lanka’s Minhin Lanka Airline would extend its wing to Myanmar, coordinating with a Myanmar travel company for launching the direct flight service between Yangon and Colombo.

Bangladesh’s Biman Airline has tried to re-establish direct air link to connect Yangon and Dhaka as travelers from Yangon visiting Dacca have to transit through Bangkok.

In fact, Myanmar and Bangladesh have been working to resume direct air link after Biman stopped its flight between Dhaka and Yangon before 2007 due to economic loss.

Negotiations were held over the resumption of the direct air link during visits to Myanmar by Bangladesh officials in 2011.

Concerning the Hong Kong Express, coordinations were made with Myanmar in October 2011 to re-launch direct flight to Yangon and a delegation of the Hong Kong Express was seeking international ticket sale agent in Myanmar for the move.

Vientiane Times 7Vientiane Times Monday July 9, 2012

World

REQuEST FoR EXPRESSIon oF InTEREST

Country: Lao People’s Democratic RepublicProject: Education for All Fast Track Initiative Catalytic Fund (EFA FTI CF Program)Sector: Education description: Financial Assistants (9 Positions)Grant No.: TF097384Project ID No.: P118494

The Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) is implementing the Education for All – Fast Track Initiative (EFA-FTI) Catalytic Trust Fund Grant Agreement with the objective to increase the coverage and improve the quality of pre-primary and primary education with a focus on the most educationally disadvantaged children in 56 districts in 16 provinces of Lao PDR. As part of this program, the Ministry will be constructing new classrooms, renovating schools, adding additional classroom, supplying latrines and water over the first two and half years of a three year implementation period. The Program will be started at the same time in all 16 target provinces: Attapeu, Champasack, Xekong, Saravanh, Savanaket, Khammouan, Borikhamxay, Vientiane Province, Xiengkhouang, Xaiyaboury, Houaphan, Luangprabang, Bokeo, Oudomxay, Luangnamtha and Phongsaly.

1. National Financial Assistant (9 Positions)

Scope of Work:The 9 Financial Assistants will work closely with Provincial finance officer and collaboratively with FM Coordinator and Finance at the central level as to (a) support the FM advisor and Finance Officer in budget planning, management and training, (b) maintain proper internal control and procedures and (c) provide timely and relevant financial management information and reporting on the expenditure.

Qualifications and Experience:• Bachelor Degree in Accounting or Financial Management and other relating area of studying;• At least 5 years of work experiences in related accounting and financial management with external funding

projects (preferably WB or ADB projects);• Knowledge and understanding of international accounting standards;• Knowledge and understanding of financial regulations and documentation process of the Ministry of Finance;• Ability to prepare and submit the request for payment;• Demonstrated ability to service effectively donor financial management requirements;• Willingness to travel extensively in , and to work in remote areas for extended periods;• Ability to work as part of a team and to meet deadlines;• Ability to advise the IUs at provincial levels regarding to all financial aspect.• Ability to communicate in English a decided advantage.

The 9 Financial Assistant will be for a period of Eight [8] months with the possibility of contract extensions to be determined according to perceived business need and consultant performance. The 9 Financial Assistants outputs will be delivered to the Program Director under the direct supervision of EFA FTI Program Director and Department of Finance, MoES.

Interested eligible candidates in both positions may obtain further information and the detailed TOR from the Ministry of Education and Sports, ESDF Coordination Unit (ECU) at the address below during office hours 08:00 to 16:00 hours or by e-mail.

Please submit CVs and three [3] references along with a letter of interest by 27th june to 11th july, 2012 to the address below. Please mention the position clearly on the letter of Application. Only short listed individual candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Attn: Mrs. Khampaseuth KITIGNAVONG, Program Director ministry of Education and Sports lane Xang avenue, P.O Box 067, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR e-mail: [email protected] Tel/Fax: (856 -21) 243 672

MOSCOW (AP) -- Intense flooding in the Black Sea region of southern Russia killed 103 people after torrential rains dropped nearly a foot of water, forcing many to scramble out of their beds for refuge in trees and on roofs, officials said Saturday.

Many people were asleep when the flooding hit overnight in the Krasnodar region, and the water rushed into the area around the hard-hit town of Krimsk with such speed and volume that rumors emerged that local officials had opened

103 dead in southern Russia floods A woman walks in a muddy street after flooding in the Black Sea resort of Gelendzhik, southern Russia on Saturday. –Photo AP

a nearby water reservoir. Muddy water coursed through streets and homes, in some cases high enough to flow over the hoods of cars and even as high as rooftops, according to witnesses.

People waded through waist-high water or maneuvered the streets in boats on Saturday. About 5,000 residences were flooded, the Krasnodar governor was quoted as telling the Interfax news agency.

“Nobody remembers such a flood in all of the area’s

history,” Alexander Tkachev said.

The Interior Ministry gave the death toll as 103 on Saturday evening, according to Russian news agencies; a regional ministry spokesman said earlier that at least 67 of the deaths were around Krimsk, about 1,200 kilometres south of Moscow.

Five people were electrocuted in the Black Sea coastal city of Gelendzhik after a transformer fell into the water, state news agency RIA Novosti said.

TRIPOLI (Xinhua) -- Libya’s national congress election wrapped up on Saturday evening, with a turnout of less than 50 percent.

Head of Libya’s High National Electoral Commission (HNEC) Nuri al-Abbar said at a press conference that 1.2 million out of more than 2.7 million registered voters have cast their ballots.

Most polling stations in Tripoli and Libya’s second largest city of Benghazi were closed at 8pm local time as scheduled and vote counting begins immediately.

Voting period at some polling stations in eastern region might be extended, according to a text message sent to local residents by the

Libya wraps up national congress election, vote counting begins

Officials count votes after the polling station closed in Tripoli, Libya. --Photo Xinhua

HNEC.The landmark national

congress election kicked off on Saturday morning and was hailed as a milestone on the path toward democracy after the toppling of former leader Muammar Gaddafi. The election result is scheduled to be announced on July 11.

Abbar said 94 percent of polling stations across the country are running smoothly. Nevertheless, the polls encountered a series of violent disruptions, mainly in Libya’s eastern region.

In Libya’s eastern city of Ajdabiya, one person was killed in a drive-by shooting outside a polling station, an interior ministry official told Xinhua.

Also in Ajdabiya, a voter was shot down and another one wounded when a group of armed men tried to close a polling station there.

A security source told Xinhua that two polling stations in Libya’s second largest city Benghazi was attacked on Saturday morning.

The attackers stormed polling stations, destroyed ballot boxes and set some electoral materials on fire, with no casualties reported, the source said on condition of anonymity.

Earlier in the day, voting in the eastern cities of Ajdabiya and Brega was suspended as electoral materials there had been destroyed by arsonists, the pan-Arab Al-Jazeera TV said, adding that some 20 polling stations in Ajdabiya resumed later.

Meanwhile, voters in the Oasis area of Jalo-Aojalla-Jakhirra in eastern Libya was not able to vote Saturday because airplanes carrying electoral materials for the district had been held at Zawitina Airport by protesters demanding national congress seat allocation.

Voters in most parts of Libya started to cast their ballots since 8am local time.

In Libya’s capital of Tripoli, checkpoints were set up in the early hours of Saturday to secure the election.

8 Vientiane TimesMonday July 9, 2012

Vientiane Times 9

Programme Assistant (Environmental Health) (G 5-Level)-Fixed-term Position

The post will provide secretarial/clerical assistance to the Environmental Health team of WR’s Office, Lao PDR.

Duties:

Under the supervision of Technical Officer, Expanded Programme on Immunization, the incumbent will perform the following functions: 1) To provide assistance in managing the operating budget for the Environmental Health (EHE) activities in Lao PDR in collaboration with Ministry of Health (MoH);2) To assist in developing budget plan for with Ministry of Health (MoH) activities funded by WHO by computing per diem payment, transportation, and other financial transactions;3) To liaise with the Environmental Health division of the Department of Hygiene and Prevention and the National Centre for Environmental Health and Water Supply, Ministry of Health and the Department of Housing and Urban Planning, Ministry of Public Works and Transport and other government authorities, banks and suppliers/vendors; initiate queries and provides responses on administrative issues;4) To screen and checks background documents for completeness; prepares relevant administrative and project documentations for agreement for performance for work (APWs), direct financial cooperation (DFCs), procurement, study tours, project monitoring and evaluations, etc.;5) To prepare and submit procurement requests into GSM and follow up all the procurement process, initiating and completing formalities of incoming and outgoing shipments (via customs clearances), in a timely manner;6) To maintain, monitors and records payments for DFC requests, procurements, statement of expenditures, and other financial transactions; prepares regular budgetary statements and financial implementation reports of project activities;7. To arrange appointments for supervisor and other members of the team, receives visitors; places and screens telephone calls, responds to routine requests for information, and prepares briefing folders for supervisor’s duty travels;8) To provide administrative briefing and information on the project and its activities to WHO technical staff;9) To perform general administrative tasks and related duties to Environmental Health activities as required, such as, providing correspondence on administrative issues with national counterparts, maintaining files and records of all essential documents and reports and maintain a follow up system on deadlines;10) To provide support in the arrangements for meetings, workshops and training courses, including preparation of related folders;11) To provide secretarial and clerical support to visiting staff and consultants as and when required;12) To perform other related duties as and may be required.

Education: • Completion of secondary school education with thorough secretarial/administrative training.

• Training in accounting theories and principles is desirable. Formal or self-training in the use of standard office software and/or training in Oracle-based or other ERP systems is an asset.

Knowledge and Skills: Thorough knowledge of office procedures, including accounting principles and the ability to acquire quickly knowledge of WHO procedures, rules and regulations. Excellent organizational, communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to act with tact, diplomacy, discretion and respect for confidentiality. Good typing and ability to take dictation at required speed. Ability to work harmoniously as a member of team is essential. Adaptability to diverse educational and cultural backgrounds and maintain a high standard of personal conduct. Experience:• Five years’ experience in secretarial/administrative position, preferably in a large or international organization, embassy or multinational

corporation.• Experience in programme support would be an advantage.

Language: • High degree of competency in written and spoken English.

Other skills: • Basic computer skills, ability to write reports both in English and Lao Language, training curriculum and IEC development skills Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit applications in English language, with curriculum vitae and cover letter by 31 July 2012 to

The World Health Organization125 Saphanthong Road,Unit 5 Ban Saphanthong Tai,Sisathanak District.P.O. Box 343 Vientiane, Lao P.D.R.Fax: (856) 21 353905Tel: (856) 21 353902-904Email: [email protected]

Vacancy notice

Monday July 9, 2012


This is an exciti ng ti me to join Phu Bia Mining in a dynamic industry. Our Phu Kham Copper-Gold Operati on is in its fi ft h year of producti on, our new Ban Houaxyai Gold-Silver Operati on has just commenced producti on and we have a pipeline of explorati on projects in Laos.

Closing date is 17th July 2012.

Visit our website at www.panaust.com.au/current-vacancies to explore our current opportuniti es.

We encourage you to apply online via our website, or to apply in person at our Vienti ane offi ce at 7th Floor Capital Tower (Indochina Bank Building), 23 Singha Road, Saysetha District, Vienti ane. For general enquiries or assistance completi ng an online applicati on, please contact our Recruitment team on 021 268 000.

We are a growing company, committ ed to the future development of Lao PDR and its people. By joining the Phu Bia Mining team, you will have the opportunity to truly discover your potenti al and enjoy a long term, successful career. Working in a multi -cultural environment, you will be supported by experienced expatriates and Lao supervisors who will provide you with training and development and the opportunity to develop and improve your English language skills. You will be rewarded with a generous salary and benefi ts package, including family medical insurance and performance bonuses.

We are seeking enthusiasti c and moti vated Lao nati onals for the following positi ons:

COMPLIANCE ADVISORLocati on: Vienti ane offi ce

Roster: 5 days on, 2 days off

Reporti ng to the Financial Reporti ng and Accounti ng Superintendent, you will be responsible for the development, implementati on and ongoing leadership for a new compliance/internal audit program, in order to identi fy and miti gate fi nancial risks for our operati ons in Laos.

Your responsibiliti es will include:

• Developing an internal compliance program with management support

• Conducti ng regular audits across the business, with an emphasis on high risk areas including payroll and pett y cash

• Following up recommendati ons and acti ons identi fi ed from audits

• Coordinati ng with internal and external auditors to ensure a rigorous compliance framework

• Process mapping of key fi nancial functi ons

• Liaising with a range of internal stakeholders to ensure that company policies and procedures are adhered to

To be successful in this role, you will require:

• Degree in accounti ng/fi nance or equivalent

• 5-7yrs audit experience – gained from experience in an internati onal accounti ng fi rm or a similar in-house role with a large company

• Experience developing and implementi ng a compliance program will be highly regarded

• Experience with Microsoft Offi ce and Pronto or similar fi nancial soft ware package

• Fluent in writt en and spoken Lao and English

• Excellent communicati on and interpersonal skills to deal with a range of stakeholders

• High level analyti cal skills and the ability to prioriti se and meet deadlines

COMMUNITY LIAISON OFFICERLocati on: Phonsavan offi ce


Based at our Phonesavanh Explorati on offi ce, you will report to the Senior Community Liaison Offi cer and be responsible for communicati ng and negoti ati ng with the local villagers who live in our explorati on area.


• Maintaining and enhancing positi ve relati ons between the company and local communiti es through regular, open and transparent communicati on and engagement

• Investi gati ng and resolving community grievances in a manner consistent with company policy

• Assisti ng to minimize impacts to community lands through miti gati on, rehabilitati on and compensati on strategies


• Bachelor degree in social science, agriculture, engineering, irrigati on, law or other relevant fi eld

• Minimum 3 years relevant work experience, including working with communiti es

• Excellent writt en and verbal language in Lao and English; Hmong language would be benefi cial

• Ability to communicate clearly, confi dently, and persuasively

• Competent in Microsoft Offi ce suite

• Current drivers licence

SENIOR GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS ADVISORLocati on: Vienti ane Offi ce


Reporti ng to the External Aff airs Manager, you will be one of Phu Bia Mining’s key representati ves who liaise with senior Lao Government offi cials, NGO’s and other Lao-based companies regarding Phu Bia’s mining and explorati on acti viti es in Laos. This is a very senior and interesti ng role that will off er you a broad scope of work and interacti on across the whole of our business.


• Developing and maintaining relati onships with Government, company and NGO representati ves

• Att ending regular meeti ngs with key Government representati ves regarding PBM’s business acti viti es and development

• Hosti ng visits and meeti ngs for external stakeholders at our mining and explorati on sites

• Preparing reports for the Department of Mines and other Government stakeholders

• Presenti ng company informati on to external audiences as required


• Degree level qualifi cati on in a relevant discipline

• 15 years work experience, including experience in a senior role within Government

• Previous experience or exposure to the mining industry will be highly desirable

• Proven ability in dealing with a range of complex projects

• Excellent verbal and writt en skills in English and Lao

• Outstanding interpersonal skills to deal with a range of stakeholders at varying levels

• High level of demonstrated integrity, ethics and judgement

• Good skills in Microsoft Offi ce

SENIOR SURVEY TECHNICIANLocati on: Phu Kham Operati on


Reporti ng to the Senior Surveyor and have the opportunity to be involved in survey acti viti es for the large open pit mine, the tailings dam storage facility and roadworks around our mine site. You will have the chance to develop your skills in using the latest GPS technology.


• Processing and editi ng daily survey data

• Uploading set out survey data to the GPS controller system

• Making out ore block polygons, pit crest, toe, berms , ramp, blast patt ern for all mining acti viti es

• Preparing maps and survey data for making out

• Assisti ng water sampling, water discharge, impact area as required


• Higher Diploma or Degree qualifi cati on in Survey

• Minimum of 2-3 years survey experience, ideally including experience in the mining industry

• Experience using Surpac or similar mining soft ware and GPS is highly desirable

• Strong computer skills with MS Offi ce

• Current drivers licence

www.panaust.com.au

DISCOVER YOUR POTENTIAL. DEVELOP YOUR FUTURE.GROW WITH PHU BIA MINING.

As an equal opportunity employer, we off er both men and women many diff erent career opportuniti es at our mine and explorati on sites and in our Vienti ane offi ce. Our modern mine camps provide great Lao, Asian and Western food, sport and recreati onal faciliti es and housekeeping services. Site-based employees work a roster of 20 days on, 8 days off or 14 days on, 7 days off for shift work, while Vienti ane-based employees work 5 days per week with 2 days off .

11Vientiane Times

VaCanCy announCEmEnT (Announcement No. 12/43)

oPEn To: All interested candidates PoSITIon: Security Guards (Residences), FSn-2oPEnInG daTE: June 29, 2012 CloSInG daTE: July 18, 2012 WoRK HouRS: Full-time; 48 hours/week SalaRy: Actual salary will be based on the qualifications of the applicant.

NOTE: THIS IS A LOCAL POSITION. THE SELECTED CANDIDATE WILL COME UNDER LOCAL LABOR LAW, AND BE PAID ACCORDING TO THE EMBASSY’S LOCAL COMPENSATION PLAN. all oRdInaRy RESIdEnT aPPlICanTS muST BE RESIdInG In laoS and HaVE THE REQUIRED WORK AND/OR RESIDENCY PERMITS TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION.

The U.S. Embassy in Vientiane is seeking four (4) individuals for the position of Security Guards (Residences) in the Regional Security Office (RSO).

BaSIC FunCTIon oF PoSITIon: Incumbents serve as the security guard for all official residences and reports to the Local Guard Shift Supervisor. He/she is responsible for controlling access, securing, patrolling and reporting all problems, incidents or emergencies at official residences.

QualIFICaTIonS REQuIREd:

1. Education: Completion of primary school is required. 2. Prior Work Experience: One year of directly applicable military or police or guard experience. 3. language Proficiency: Be able to communicate in English (level 2). Good working knowledge of Lao

language (level 3) is required. 4. Knowledge: Must be thoroughly familiar with all Embassy Guard orders, procedures, standards and

emergency responses. 5. Skills and abilities: Must be physically fit and able.

HoW To aPPly Interested applicants for this position must submit the following for the application to be considered: 1. Universal Application for Employment (Form DS-174). Download the form at:

http://laos.usembassy.gov/job_opportunities.html2. Candidates who claim U.S. Veterans preference must provide a copy of their Form DD-214 with their

application. 3. Any other documentation (e.g., essays, certificates, awards, copies of degrees earned) that

addresses the qualification requirements of the position as listed above.

SuBmIT aPPlICaTIon To Human Resources Office American Embassy Rue Bartholonie, That Dam PO Box 114, Vientiane, Laos (Hardcopy or e-mail attachments are accepted)

PoInT oF ConTaCT Telephone: 856-21-267176 Fax: 856-21-267140 E-mail: [email protected]

Interested persons should contact Embassy Human Resources Office for more information. Blank application forms may be picked up from the cabinet inside the Embassy entrance.

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

CloSInG daTE FoR THIS PoSITIon: july 18, 2012 An Equal Opportunity Employer

Invitation for Bids (IFB)name of Country: Lao People’s Democratic Republic. name of Project: Education for All Fast Track Initiative Catalytic Fund (EFA FTI CF Program). Grant number: TF097384.IFB Title: Procurement of three [3] units of Pick – Up Truck, 4 WD double Cab, diesel

engine, off - road for EFA FTI CF Program.

1. The Government of Lao PDR has received a Grant from the IBRD/IDA (World Bank) acting as Administrator of Grant Funds Provided under EFA FTI Catalytic Trust toward the cost of EFA FTI CF Program and it intends to apply part of the proceeds of this Grant to payments under the Contract for Procurement of 3 units of Pick – Up truck, 4 WD double cab, diesel engine, off – road for EFA FTI CF Program.

2. The Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for 3 units of Pick – up truck to be supplied to implementing units of ESDF Coordination Unit (ECU) at various sites in the country.

Bidders must bid for the whole lot, i.e. for the total quality specified. Bid evaluation and contact award will also be for the whole lot.

3. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) procedures in accordance with the Decree of Prime Minister on Government Procurement of Goods, Construction, Maintenance and Service, 03/PM dated January 9, 2004 and the Implementing Rules and Regulations on Decree of Government Procurement of Goods, Works, Maintenance and Service, 0063/MOF dated March 12, 2004 specified in the Grant Agreement between Lao People’s Democratic Republic and International Bank for Reconstruction and Development/International Development Association dated August 12, 2010 and are open to all bidders from eligible source countries as defined in the Guidelines.

4. Interested eligible bidders may obtain further information from Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES), ESDF Coordination Unit (ECU) and inspect the bidding documents at the address given below from 08:00 to 16:00 hours.

5. A complete set of bidding documents in English may be purchased by interested bidders at the address below and upon payment of a nonrefundable fee of LAK500,000 (Five hundred thousand Lao kip) per each. The method of payment will be by cash.

6. Bids must be delivered to the address below at 10:00 am Vientiane Local Time on Friday 10th august 2012, 425 conference room, 4th floor, New Building, Ministry of Education and Sports. Late bids will be rejected and returned unopened to the bidders. All bids must be accompanied by a bid security of minimum USD1,680.00 (One thousand six hundred and eighty US Dollars). Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at the address below:

Attention: Ms. Khampaseuth KITIGNAVONG Deputy Director General of DP Program Director

Address: Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) Department of Planning (DP) Education for All Fast Track Initiative Catalytic Fund (EFA FTI CF Program). Conference room No. 425, 4th floor, New Building.

Lane Xang Avenue, P.O Box 67 Vientiane, LAO PDR. Email: [email protected]/Fax: (856-21) 243 672

No. Description Qtt/unit(s) Delivery Schedule Final Destinations

1 Pick – Up Truck, 4 WD double cab, diesel engine, off – road 3 45 days Ministry of Education and

Sports (MoES) Total unit(s): 3

Monday July 9, 2012


Head Office: Kolao T2 , Oupmoung Village ,Sikhottabong District , Vientiane CapitalTEL: 021 520 241 MOBILE: 020 5556 6600 , 020 5552 9557 FAX: 021 520 243.

More Information:

design of the best in the century the best quality given to you

power unlimited stronger than others

Hydraulic Pump Water Pump Centralized Control Device Washing Hose Reduction Gear & Oil Cooler

Safe Control Unit Safety StopperTelescopic-type (HD370) dump mechanism

Marrel-type (HD270) dump mechanism

Vientiane Times 13Monday July 9, 2012

14 Vientiane Times

Landmark Mekong Riverside Hotel is located in Vientiane, Lao PDR. Just minutes away from Consular District, and only 15 minutes west of Wattay International Airport. Contemporary in design, yet with stylish Lao flair, The Landmark defines as Vientiane’s most striking and sophisticated hotel. The 200 room property includes 12 suites and 33 deluxe guestrooms, tropical balconies captivate guests with commanding views of Mekong River. Both corporate visitors and travellers will be attracted to our amenity-rich accommodations, unparalleled hospitality and premium services. The Hotel will be opened in October 2012.We are currently seeking oriented service and right candidates with right attitude to join our team as belowed positions.

1.Room Division Department

Room Division manager

Assistant Room Division Manager

Assistant Front Office Manager

Front Office Supervisor

Assistant Housekeeping Manager

Housekeeping Supervisor

2. Food & Beverage Department

Food & Beverage Manager

Assistant Food & Beverage Manager

Food and Beverage Supervisor

3. Kitchen department

Executive Chef

Western Chef

4. Security Department

Chief Security

Assistant Chief Security

5. Engineering Department:

Chief Engineering

Asst Chief Engineering

Mechanics Supervisor

Plumber Supervisor

A/C technician Supervisor

*Skill full at least 1 year Experience will be advantage.

6. Human Resource & Administration

Executive Secretary/administrator Officer.

Information System Supervisor

*Executive Secretary/Administration officer should be fluent in writing and speaking English, experience of making report and take minute of meeting both in Laos and English, 1 years experience advantage.

7. Finance and Accounting Dept.

Assistant Finance& Accounting manager.

Purchasing officer.

Requirements:

Able to speak English.

Confident and outgoing with PR skills, ability to take responsibility and work under pressure, good background with minimum 1 year experience in relevant filed.

Women, handicraft, new graduated students are encourage apply,( Attractive salary and benefits awaits the right candidate)

please submit an application letter together with CV, copy of ID, Copy Family book, certificate, guarantee Certificate, bio data, photos: 3x4= 6pcs. Before 15th July 2012. Email: [email protected] or [email protected]. Address: Rising Investment and Development Co.,Ltd. Krittiphong Group Building . P.O.Box 10199. Ban Phonsaarth, Kaisonephomvihan Road.

Tel: 856-021- 454426, Fax: 021-4563477 and 020 557 24537. Only shortlisted will be contracted

Monday July 9, 2012

Vientiane Times 15

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Monday July 9, 2012

16 Vientiane Times

Located in Vientiane, capital of Lao PDR, Soochow University in Laos is the first foreign University approved by the Lao government in January 2009, and the first Chinese overseas university solely established by 112-year-old Soochow University , Suzhou, PR China.With reference of world class university standard and mode, making full use of the international quality education resources, constructing advanced program setup with full implement of credit system, Soochow university in Laos will conduct full-time undergraduate of 4-year study and graduate of 3-year study (master & doctor) programs as well as various advanced training. In 2012, Soochow University in Laos will first set up two programs including International Economy &Trade and International Finance as well as the Chinese Language Training. According to the general plan, through 10 to 20 years’ construction, Soochow University in Laos will be developed into a comprehensive international first-class university of undergraduate and graduate education with more than 5000 students, which will offer programs in economics, management, law, hospitality, computer science, machinery, railway transportation, electronic communication, medicine, as well as Chinese language training and various technical training in consistent with Laos economic and social development. The university will also set up an affiliated clinic hospital.Soochow University in Laos will facilitate Lao and Indochina students with excellent education condition and cultivate talented elites capable of the Lao, Chinese, and English languages, and with internationalized vision and strong professional knowledge. Meanwhile Soochow University in Laos will be dedicated to serve as a communication window and free exchange platform for the Chinese enterprises in comprehensive and in-depth understanding of Lao and the Southeast Asian regional economic and social development.In order to establish the international level of high quality faculty library, and to improve teaching and management level, Soochow University in Laos will implement long-term global recruitment of advanced talents. Warmly welcome those with aspiration in higher education to join in! Details below:

A. Qualification:1. Passionate and diligent with strong sense of devotion and responsibility 2. With the high spirit of team cooperation and dedication3. With master or doctor degree from famous universities at home and abroad4. Healthy and fluent in Lao5. Skilled in Office Automation with rich experience of relevant workB. Position and requirement

I Teachers1. Major in Philosophy, law, environmentology, psychology, sociology, statistics,

college mathematics, computer science etc.2. Aged from 25 to 70, professionals or part time3. Those with rich teaching experience are preferred.

II Students management: 1 person1. elatively strong communication ability in Chinese2. With relatively strong ability in interpersonal and public relations 3. he working experience in higher education institution4. Aged below 45, restriction will be relaxed to those with special ability

III Logistics management: 1 person1. With relatively strong communication ability in Chinese2. Undergraduates or above majoring in architecture, civil engineering, industrial and

civil building, water supply and drainage, engineering management, construction management, building economic management, project supervision, construction costs, etc.

3. With the working experience in institutional logistics management4. Aged below 40, skillful in driving with license

IV Educational administration clerk. 1 person1.With relatively strong communication ability in Chinese2. Undergraduates or above educational background3. With relatively strong ability in writing and management as well as computer skills4. With good coordination in teaching management and daily work, those with rich

experience in teaching management are preferred.

C. Benefits Soochow University in Laos will offer competitive treatment to those excellent

professionals and part-time talents. Details will be negotiated.D. Materials submission1. Personal resume (with photos)2. Graduation certificate and degree3. Any other materials that can certify the applicants’ education level and ability ( certificate

of high level attainment, certificate of employment at home or abroad, etc.);4. Contact details E. Deadline for applicationBefore July 15th 2012F. Contact:Address: Office of human resources, Soochow University Postal code: DD123Contact person: Mr. Fan, 020-58971489 Mr. Vieng 020-22302626Fax: 00856-21-720177 E-mail: [email protected]

job vacancy Soochow university in laos

Monday July 9, 2012

united nations development Programme

REQuEST FoR QuoTaTIonS # RFQ_023_2012

Dear Sir/Madam,

UNDP Country Office in Lao PDR is kindly invited all eligible companies/firms to submit quotations for Provision of internet services to undP lao PdR. Quotations shall be submitted in sealed envelopes for any Lot or for all Lots on or before 11:00 AM (Vientiane time), 23 July 2012 to the following address: Attention: Procurement/Logistics UnitUnited Nations Development Programme Lane Xang Avenue, PO Box 345 Vientiane, Lao PDR Tel: +856 (21) 267765 or 267761, Fax: +856 (21) 264939 Late or partial quotations will be rejected. Marking: Please mark the envelope subject as follows: ‘‘RFQ_023_2012 Provision of internet services to UNDP Lao PDR’’.

UNDP will not be responsible for postal delays, if any, in the delivery of the bid documents or non-receipt of the same. Full set of bidding documents can be downloaded at http://www.undplao.org/vacancies/procurementnotice.php Companies requesting clarification of any of the items, technical requirements or conditions stipulated in this request shall communicate in writing with UNDP office and sent request for clarification to e-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] . Only requests for clarification received at least 4 days prior to the deadline for submission of offers will be processed. Replies to any requests for clarification will be transmitted to all bidders at http://www.undplao.org/vacancies/procurementnotice.php

Companies requesting clarification of any of the items, technical requirements or conditions stipulated in this request shall communicate in writing with UNDP office and sent request for clarification to e-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]. Only requests for clarification received at least 4 days prior to the deadline for submission of offers will be processed. Replies to any requests for clarification will be transmitted to all bidders at http://www.undplao.org/vacancies/procurementnotice.php

Pease visit our web-site to see other procurement and vacancy announcements www.undplao.org

Vientiane Times 17Monday July 9, 2012


Opinion

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Haider Rizvi, IPS

UNITED NATIONS -- What if billionaires the world over are asked to shell out at least one percent of their wealth as an international tax for development?

The question arises in a new UN survey, which bemoans the fact that many donor nations continue to shy away from fulfilling their pledge to finance development goals by providing 0.7 percent of their Gross National Product (GNP).

“It is time to look for other ways to find resources to finance development needs and address growing global challenges, such as combating climate change,” said Rob Vos, the lead author of the report, entitled “World Economic and Social Survey 2012: In Search of New Development Finance.”

In their analysis, Vos and his colleagues suggest that a one percent tax on one billion dollars holding could help gain better results in regard to financing for internationally agreed development initiatives.

Currently, there are at least 1,225 billionaires in the world from 58 countries, according

to Forbes magazine. The US alone is home to more than 400.

The global survey says there is an urgent need to find new sources of support for development because many donor countries have failed to keep their promises, a situation worsened by the prolonged economic recession.

According to the UN, there is a shortfall of US$167

billion in terms of Official Development Assistance, which is making it difficult for various agencies involved in achieving development goals aimed at fighting poverty, deadly diseases and climate change.

Thus, in addition to an international tax, the UN is proposing several other ways to tap resources that could strengthen international actions for sustainable development, such as taxes on

carbon emissions, air traffic, and financial and currency transactions.

The UN says it wants to raise more than US$400 billion annually for development and global challenges such as fighting climate change. But that is an amount that is becoming increasingly hard to secure from governments.

UN studies show that a large number of developing

countries remain far behind in terms of achieving the Millennium Development Goals, mainly because they lack financial resources and assistance from the donor nations.

Researchers say they have witnessed some success in regard to global health programmes aimed at providing immunisations, AIDS and tuberculosis treatments to millions of people in the developing

world, but add that such initiatives hardly yielded any additional funding on top of traditional development assistance.

“Donor countries have fallen well short of their aid commitments and development assistance declined last year because of budget cuts, increasing the shortfall,” said Vos, adding that donors “must meet their

commitments”.Experts who carried out

the survey see potential to raise over 400 billion every year by taxing carbon dioxide emissions in developed countries: a US$25 tax per tonne would raise an estimated US$250 billion per year, collected by national authorities, but earmarked for international cooperation.

The survey also recommends a tiny currency transaction tax of one half

of a “basis point” (0.005 percent) on all trading in four major currencies (the dollar, euro, yen and pound sterling), which could yield an estimated 40 billion per year for international cooperation, among other measures.

Such taxes also make “economic sense” as they help stimulate green growth and mitigate financial market instability, Vos said.

In his view, such new financing mechanisms will help donor countries overcome “their record of broken promises to their own benefit the world at large.”

“The survey provides important suggestions to generate solid financial underpinnings for the actions to be undertaken in follow up to the agreement reached at the recent United Nations Rio+20 Conference to achieve global sustainable development,” said Sha Zukang, under-secretary-general of the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs.

The survey points out that the design of appropriate governance and allocation mechanisms is crucial for innovative financing to ultimately meet development needs and contribute to

UN calls for tax on ultrarich to boost developmentfinancing the post-2015 development agenda.

In recent years, a number of mechanisms have been developed under the rubric of innovative development finance, mostly in the field of health. The survey confirms that these mechanisms helped improve aid effectiveness and contributed to the financing of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

However, according to re-searchers, the funds channeled through these programmes have mainly come from existing aid budgets, rather than generating additional resources. Overall, a total of US$5.8 billion has been channeled through these innovative mechanisms since 2006, but only a few hundred million dollars can be counted as additional to existing aid.

There is an urgent need for additional resources, and proposing an international tax for development is one of those, they said.

But whether the “billionaire’s tax” is feasible remains an open question. “We made this suggestion (but) technically it’s very difficult,” Vos told IPS.

The survey points out that the design of appropriate governance and allocation

mechanisms is crucial for innovative financing to ultimately meet

development needs.

Vientiane Times 19Monday July 9, 2012 Opinion

Chen Weihua, China Daily, Asia News Network

BEIJING -- Brazil ranks second in the world for its number of lawyers per capita, only the United States has more. Now I know why.

The many Chinese and Brazilian business executives I met during my recent trip to Brazil continually complained about the strict labor laws that often make them defendants in court.

“Even sending an e-mail to employees after work hours is illegal,” said one newly arrived Chinese businessman, with a puzzled look on his face.

While this may sound bizarre in China, where employers and employees often send and check e-mails after work, Brazil has a new law that requires companies to pay overtime to employees who make or receive work-related e-mails or phone calls out of office hours.

Employers can be sued if employees are required to do things not included in their job description, and they need to select their words very carefully when talking to employees or they may be accused of discrimination. And, according to the business chiefs I met, even if they do treat their workers well there will be a strike at the end of the year to demand a pay raise.

Brazil’s labour laws, which are embedded in the country’s Constitution as non-negotiated rights, are probably among the strictest in the world.

What are mandated as legal rights for Brazilian workers, such as a mandatory “13th-month” bonus, 30-days leave, a workday that cannot exceed eight hours, or a workweek

that cannot go beyond 44 hours, are often considered perks in other countries.

Because of the huge mandatory benefits and contributions and taxes paid for employees, employers often find that the cost of hiring a worker is nearly double the base salary.

I am not surprised that Chinese business executives feel intimidated by Brazil’s strict labour laws because

many of these labour rights are either non-existent or at best optional in China.

Recent stories about Foxconn, an original equipment manufacturer for Apple in China, are quite telling. When Foxconn was forced to limit overtime for its employees in China, the migrant workers protested because they would lose money by not working overtime. To some, even 36 hours of overtime a month is far from enough.

I teased Sergio Amaral, the former Brazilian trade minister and now chairman of the China-Brazil Business Council, about how Brazil

can compete with China when Chinese workers want to work 12 or more hours a day.

But I doubt workers in China would be so willing to work that many hours if they were paid enough in the first place.

While Foxconn has become the focus for labour rights violations in China, the company was forced to offer workers at its plant in Brazil much more due to the country’s strict labour laws. The wages are twice as high and workers get six times as many days holiday. At the same time, workers at the Foxconn factory in Brazil have bargained for decent wages, health plans, profit-sharing, food and transport and six months of paid maternity leave, in addition to the 44-hour maximum workweek set by the law.

In the World Bank’s 2010 Doing Business Report, Brazil was ranked 138th out of 183 countries for the difficulty of employing workers. One of my friends, an editor at a major Brazilian newspaper, said that many employers in Brazil regard its labour protection as a problem.

While Brazil may want to change its tough labour laws in order to stay competitive, Chinese workers, both blue- and white-collars, definitely need some of the rights and protection offered to Brazilian workers.

I’m not sure if sending e-mails or text messages after work hours should be regarded as illegal or overtime, but over-exploitation of workers and taking advantages of lax labour law should be ended.

The author, based in New York, is Deputy Editor of China Daily USA.

THE STRAITS TIMES

THE daIly yomIuRITHE yomIuRI SHImBun

Asia News Network (ANN)The Asia News Network (ANN) is a network of leading daily English language newspapers in Asia, supported by the Konrad Adenauer Foundation of Germany through its regional representative bureau in Singapore. It was established in March, 1999, to provide avenues for cooperation and optimise coverage of major news events in the region. It also aims to promote journalism, share news stories, feature articles, editorials and personality profiles. ANN is the world’s most active newspaper alliance with a membership base of 18 newspapers in 16 countries. The German News Agency of Deutsche Presse-Agentur, as one of the leading international agencies and ANN’s exclusive partner, distributes news and features, background stories and commentaries from ANN to subscribers worldwide.They consist of Rasmei Kampuchea (Cambodia), China Daily (China), The Statesman (India), The Korea Herald (South Korea), The Star (Malaysia), Sin Chew Daily (Malaysia), The Nation (Thailand), The Straits Times (Singapore), The Philippine Daily Inquirer (Philippines), The Jakarta Post (Indonesia), Vietnam News (Vietnam), The Daily Star (Bangladesh), Vientiane Times (Laos), The Kathmandu Post (Nepal), The Island (Sri Lanka), Brunei Times (Brunei), The Nation (Pakistan), and China Post (Taiwan). The combined circulation of these newspapers is more than 14 million copies per day.

Labour rights make a world of difference

Employers can be sued if employees are required to do things not included in their job description.


Feature

Request for Proposal(Contract for Research for IT Service Market in Laos 2012)

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is implementing Technical Cooperation Project in collaboration with the Faculty of Engineering (FE), National University of Laos (NUOL), namely the Project for “Human Resource Development in IT Service Industry at NUOL. The Project aims to develop human resources according to the IT service market through “IT specialist course” by the Department of Computer Engineering and Information Technology, Faculty of Engineering, National University of Laos. JICA is seeking the consultant which can undertake research activities under the project.

Activities to be carried out by the consultant include the followings: j To conduct research on IT Service Market in Laos 2012 focus a) collect the

information on the current situation of IT providers and IT recipients. (Basically, collect the same information as year 2011 research) The total number of target companies of 2012 research must not be less than the one of the 2011 research.; b) analyze the current situations and clarify the ideal future situation of Laos IT service industry.

k After the completion of the ‘draft final report’, hold a study session with all the stakeholders. Discuss if the analysis and findings made by the consultant are appropriate.

JICA will distribute detailed documents about proposal at JICA Laos Office from July 6 – 11, 2012 (8:30 to 17:00 exclude 12:00 to 13:30 – Working Days only). Interested Consultants are to come to pick up those documents.

JICA Laos OfficeSihom Commerce Center Building, No. 006, 3rd Floor, Souphanuvong Ave., Sihom Village, Chanthabouly DistrictVientiane Capital, Lao PDR PO Box: 3933Tel: 021 241100 / Fax: 021 241101-2Further Information; please contact Mr. Daovanh SENGHALATH, Education Section

Deepika Shetty, Asia News Network, The Straits Times

SINGAPORE -- A vast new sculpture of tiny metal pieces representing water droplets, titled Kinetic Rain, is making a splash at Changi Airport’s refurbished Terminal 1.

Transfixed visitors of all ages watched it in wonder or took photos with their camera phones when Life! visited on Tuesday for a preview of what is billed the world’s largest kinetic, or moving sculpture. It roughly spans the length of four check-in counters.

The sculpture was made by German design firm Art+Com led by Jussi Angesleva, a German-based Finnish artist. It officially opens on July 18, but is operational from today.

The work, which comes as a pair of sculptures installed several metres apart, consists of 1,216 ‘droplets’. Combining art and technology, each of these is attached by fine wires to individually controlled motors in the ceiling of the terminal’s departure hall. The raindrops are computer-programmed to transform into multiple shapes ranging from an aeroplane to a kite to a hot air balloon - all drawing on various forms of flight.

One spellbound visitor was three-year-old Indonesian boy Fathi Nararya who said “wow!” several times and kept urging the droplets to “go up”.

His mother, Widia Aryanti, 32, a Jakarta-based banker, tried several times to distract

her son - over a 20-minute period he was heard telling his mother he was looking at it for the “last time”.

She said: “This is very unique. Looks like my son will make us return to Singapore just to see this again.”

The Changi Airport Group, which commissioned the piece, declined to say how much it cost, only pointing to the S$500-million (US$395 million) cost of the entire refurbishment exercise of Terminal 1 which will be

completed by the middle of this month.

Artist Angesleva said from Bangkok in a Skype interview that the sculpture draws on “the wonder of flying and a tropical city”.

When the 35-year-old first visited Singapore in early 2010, what struck him was the incessant rain.

He added: “Tropical City was the theme of the terminal revamp and it gave us the starting point for the work.”

Over a period of two years,

he and his design team toyed with several ideas and varied representations of droplets before coming up with the final version - lightweight aluminium ‘droplets’

weighing 180g each.“One of the many

challenges was the size of the droplet. It had to be light enough to move, yet strong enough to last,” he said.

According to the airport group, Kinetic Rain also symbolises the thousands of people who form the airport ‘community’ as well as the visitors who pour through Changi every day.

Angesleva calls himself “just one droplet” in the team, pointing to the 15 people including artists, animators and programmers who worked to bring together art and technology.

He said: “The piece offers various entry points even though it morphs into 16 different shapes in a 15-minute loop. There is no clear beginning or end to it.”

Indeed, the sculpture certainly proved an attraction for visitors on Tuesday. Among them was Sydney-based Sharna Sutherland, 34, who was on a week-long holiday in Singapore. She spent an hour looking at the sculpture and said: ‘I have never seen anything this beautiful at any airport in the world. I was early and as I walked in, it started moving.

“It has been so relaxing to sit and watch this. I am not much of a shopper and this is an excellent feature in the airport. I hope I do not forget my check-in time.”

It’s raining metal at Changi

Visitors at Changi Airport’s Terminal 1 are entranced by the new Kinetic Rain sculpture made up of 1,216 metal droplets.

Vientiane Times 21Monday July 9, 2012 Feature

Manta Klangboonkrong, Asia News Network, The Nation

THAILAND -- Phuket’s party people had plenty to toast last weekend as Xana Beach Club at the Angsana Laguna Phuket hotel officially introduced itself with a grand pink opening party on Bang Tao Beach.

The gorgeous and the glamorous flocked to the venue early in the evening to feed sunset pictures to their Instagram and chill by the beach. While quite a few guests adhered to the “shocking pink or a touch of pink” dress code, 200 or so turned up attired in different colour schemes, confidently manifesting the “I’m too cool for dress code” attitude.

Paul Harris, one third of British house act Dirty Vegas, graced the decks with an easy going, beachside house set.

Xana offers a seamless day-into-night beach club experience with a 35-metre swim-up pool bar overlooking the beach and sea beyond. Four exclusive cabanas accommodate up to 14 people each and can be reserved in advance, while double and single loungers that offer a front row view of the Andaman Sea are also available. The second storey rooftop deck functions as a VIP area and offers a spectacular perch from which to observe the colourful sunsets. There is also a lounge area on the front lawn, which is ideal for guests who prefer to relax under the shade of pine trees.

Guests can lounge around and chill with Mediterranean-style food and an array of drinks from 11am onwards. At night, Xana transforms into a sultry bar and al fresco club where the music tempo rises and LED lights in the pool add to the party atmosphere. Resident DJ and music director Frank Richards spins an eclectic and uplifting mix

of down tempo, lounge, chill out, house and deep house, all with a touch of funk, soul and disco.

Set to be the new wow-factor in Phuket’s notorious nightscene, Xana is overseen by Singapore’s Attica Group whose previous brainchildren include Attica and Attica Too in Singapore’s Clarke Quay, and its affiliated Le Noir Bistro & Bar, also in Singapore.

“First of all, to have a beach club, you have to have a nice beach. And beaches in Phuket, especially in Bang Tao, are very beautiful,” says Mark Brimblecombe of Attica Group. “Phuket has always had these small bars by the beach that later on were made into beach clubs - with tiny swimming pools on the beach and small, crowded bars. None of them are really very high end beach club. So here we are to assist the hotel and make the club special. I think this is probably the first proper beach club in Phuket.

“If you look at other beach clubs, they all seem intent on competing with Bali. But the beaches in Bali cannot compare to this; they have black sand. I would say the most attractive feature of Xana is the beach itself. And the 35-metre pool is an excellent investment. It’s a great place to chill and watch the sunset.

“We’re also looking for big, international acts to bring in. This place is big and there’s potential to set up something special. We’re hoping to bring big acts maybe on a monthly basis in high season.

“You know, it’s like bringing a circus to town; you have to have entertainment for the people. I want it to be a place where people come away saying, ‘wow, I had a great night’. We’ll have parties and big events to make their nights special. People from Hong Kong, Sydney, Singapore and Bangkok will fly in for the weekend.”

Hot nights at cool Bang Tao

Phuket gets its first upmarket beach club with the opening of Xana

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22 Vientiane Times

What’s on

Luang Prabang

Big Brother Mouse helps young people practise their English at free drop-in sessions, 9-11am and 5-7pm, open every day. Just come to our office at 9am or 5pm in Ban Vat Nong, around the corner from 3 Nagas Hotel. www.bigbrothermouse.com. Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre. Open 9am-6pm, Tues-Sun. www.taeclaos.orgOck Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre open daily for free guided tour. Natural dyes, weaving and batik drawing classes daily. 9am-5pm. Free transfer from Ock Pop Tok shops in town to the weaving centre on the Mekong. Call 071 212597Royal Palace National Museum. Open 8.30-11.30am and 1.30-4.30pm from Wednesday to Monday.UXO Visitor Centre. Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-12 and 2-5pm. Right turn just before President’s Monument on the Northern Rd.

MuseumsLao National Museumon Samsenthai Road opposite National Culture Hall. Open Mon-Fri during office hours and on weekends from 9am to 4pm.Horphakeo Museum on Setthathirat Road opposite Vat Sisaket. Open Mon-Sun during office hours.

Sports

ANZ Vientiane Lions Women’s Rugby Club – Wednesday night fitness sessions from 7:30 at VIS. Pitch trainings Thursday nights from 19:30 and Sunday from 16:00 at Polytechnic Pitch in Ban Phonphapao. Contact Vieng on 020 54234111 or Maggie on 020 78110019 for more information. Champa Ban Youth Rugby – Rugby activities with a focus on fun, games and healthy living message. Free and open to all. Visit www.laorugby.com or contact Noui 020 54905090 or Maggie on 020 78110019 for more information.

Vientiane

- Action with Lao Children Library: Open Mon to Fri 9am to 6pm and Sat 9am to 3pm. Come in and read and borrow Lao, Japanese, Thai and English books. Located in Ban Saphangmor, Xaysettha district.

- Permanent UXO exhibition and the provision of artificial limbs for victims. COPE Visitor Centre, Khouvieng Road, opposite Green Park Hotel. Every day: 9am-6pm.

- Chess Club meets at 1pm every Sunday at City Inn on Pangkham Road, Vientiane.

Contact: [email protected] Women’s International Group. For activities and

times email [email protected] - Toastmasters Club meets every Sun. from

4-6pm at Khopchaideu restaurant (3F). Everyone is welcome.

- Meditation at Vat Sokpaluang every Saturday, 4-5.30pm.

- English Language Church Service every Sunday 10am at the ARDA Language Centre (near the Mercure, formerly Novotel). Call (021) 261441, or visit http://www.the-chs.org

Lao Elephants Australian Rules Football Club -Meet at 6.30 pm on Thursdays for training, please contact the LE President at [email protected] for details and other meeting areas.Buffalos Rugby - men’s rugby training Tuesday evenings 6 - 7:30pm. All welcome. Sunday morning social touch rugby - male, female all ages welcome. Free. For either, contact John (020 77140176), Bob (020 55510443) and Tom (020 2281111) for more information.Wild Hogs Rugby training at the Polytechnic pitch in Phonpapao village, Sisattanak, at 8pm on Tues. and Thurs. Optional Saturday touch session at That Luang at 5:30pm, Sunday fitness at That Luang at 5:30pm. Call 020 77615677 or Chris 020 77834385.Lao Mahout Netball team trains every Tues. at 6pm at Vientiane International School. For more information contact Saeng on 020 77442689.Lions Women’s Rugby from 7.30pm on Tues and Thurs at the Polytechnic pitch. Contact Noui on 020 4905090 or Maggie on 020 54656153.Youth Community Rugby SessionsTraining for U15 Boys and U17 Girls at the Polytechnic pitch in Phonpapao village, Sisattanak, at 7:30pm on Wed. Training for children of all ages at 9am on Sunday.Body Language at Vientiane Accueil, Khouvieng Rd. Class includes stretching and respiratory exercises with an oriental touch. Tues. and Thurs. from 5.30-6.30pm. Contact 020 5612107.Aerobics at Sokpalouang swimming pool, Sisattanak district. Open every day from 6am-8pm.Vientiane Hash House HarriersMeet at Nam Phu Fountain every Saturday for travel to out-of-town runs. Mixed Hash, register at 3.45pm and depart 4pm. Monday,VH3, family Hash. 3 runs - short, medium and long. Meet at 5pm at advertised venue. Phones: 223867, 217493, mobile 020 5511293, 5514669.

Monday July 9, 2012

Art & Entertainment

Pawit Mahasarinand, Asia News Network, The Nation

Let’s be perfectly clear about this: A stage musical without a proper story is a concert.

Scenario’s latest romantic musical “Rak Chab Chai” turns out to be, as widely expected, “The Bie Concert”. It’s packed with concert-style scenes that owe a lot to K-Pop extravaganzas, all dazzling dance and eye-numbing lighting effects.

The show, which opened last Thursday, clearly derives from Sukrit “Bie The Star” Wisetkaew’s hit “Na Bud Now”, and its aim is to boost his two new singles, “Rak Chab Chai” and “Khon Doem Khong Thoe”. By the end, viewers are sure to know all three songs by heart.

How many musicals have you attended where you were urged to get up and dance along? When Bie did this for a reprisal of the title song, I walked out. On my drive home I listened to Balkan hip-hop just to erase all memory of his cheesy tunes. Somehow I still couldn’t shake the sight of his silly accompanying hand movements. I might have to see a doctor.

Because the show overemphasises the hits, the plot is thinly contrived, the characters stereotypical and the scenes improbable to the point of absurdity. Romantic it is not.

Bie plays a self-centred, love-him-or-hate-him pop superstar named Sun. He’s had many short-lived romances with female celebrities - the exact opposite of Bie in real life. Suddenly he falls in love

with Vue, a girl-next-door type who is blind from a car accident but helps her sister Voon run a small restaurant. Vue also writes novels.

Vue has already been duped once by an aspiring TV actor, so Voon doesn’t want Sun around. So he wears sunglasses and tells Vue he’s actually Nuea, a movie stunt double for Sun. On learning that she helps seniors in a nursing home, Sun dons a clown costume and puts on a concert for the old folks, mimicking a classic scene in Mel Brooks’ musical “The Producers”.

Vue’s heart is won over, the disguises come off and Voon agrees that Vue can write Sun’s biography to earn money for additional medical treatment. There’s little point relating where the plot goes from here.

Nuengthida Sophon is as commanding as Vue as she was in the hit movie “Hello, Stranger”. She should consider other kinds of roles to fully

exercise her promising acting talent, which glows with sincerity. She can sing, too, but concentrates so fiercely on the task that listeners don’t get to fully enjoy the tunes.

Unfortunately for Nuengthida, the scriptwriters were unable to balance the lead characters, which is essential in good romantic drama. For his part, the director kept his stars turned so that the audience saw his leading man’s face, not hers.

Wichuda Pindum is quite arresting as Sun’s manager, but the true star of the show is Wichayanee “Gam The Star” Pearklin, who is totally immersed in her role as Voon. Her solo “Khong Tai Thi Yak Haichai” was the only moment in the show I felt moved.

Bie The Star, on the other hand, has a role that requires little more than singing, dancing, flexing his six-pack and kissing the girl. This cannot be good preparation for the lead role in “Khu Kam”, which he’s slated to

tackle next year.But, once again, such

details seem beyond Scenario’s caring. This is a concert, not a musical. It sells tickets at the theatre and songs via digital download.

“Rak Chab Chai” strikes me as simply filler between Scenario’s last production, the sold-out but technically awful “Si Phaendin”, and its biggest production of the year, the Thai edition of “Miss Saigon” coming up in September.

It’s interesting that September brings two other big musicals - “Reya” and “Mae Bia”. Let the marketing war begin, because not many people can afford tickets to all three.

If you must“Rak Chab Chai: The

Romantic Musical” continues at the Muangthai Rachadalai Theatre in Bangkok every Wednesday through Sunday until August 5 at 7:30pm and at 2pm on the weekends. It’s in Thai but there are English surtitles on Thursdays and Sunday evenings.

A Bie gig, no more

Viengsavanh Phengphachan

In the local entertainment industry, young people love hip hop, pop, R&B,

and rock and roll, trends influenced by Korean and Japanese pop.

Most local recording labels focus on selling to youths, who love listening to rock and pop music.

But a fresh recording label, TK Entertainment, is proud to have caught the attention of young listeners with its first country music singer, Mr Viengthong Laksaiyalai, better known as Jack

Jack is a young man from Luang Prabang province, but came to Vientiane to pursue his dream of a singing career in the capital.

But living in the big city wasn’t easy.

He found work a low-paying job as a security guard to fund his education before his music career kicked off.

As a child he was the star of his primary school in Pakmong village, Nambak district, and made his classmates laugh and smile with his constant singing.

“Whenever my school had singing activities, I represented my class to appear

on stage, and the teachers would select me to compete in singing contests against other students in our district,” Jack recalled.

“Often I came first or second in the contest, and the prizes I won were educational materials, along with small

sums of money.”When Jack finished upper

secondary school, he moved to Vientiane to continue his studies at the 21st Century School of English.

That’s when he applied to work as a security guard.

“I worked at night and studied during the day. One of the songs on my album is a reflection of my real life experiences,” he said. “It’s called Namtalai Saipomyam (My tears fell at the booth)”.

In 2009 and 2010 Jack performed with local band Noum Kokin, doing a concert tour around the country.

As well as playing with the band, he played a role in a comedy show as “Mr Jacky”, the son of Grandmother Lucy, which sharpened his performance and singing skills.

After the concert tour, Jack released his first album ‘Kidhak Kornakjai’ in 2010, followed by his second album ‘Sinoum Alomdee’, made together with a group of four other young singers.

Jack signed a contract with KT Entertainment for his latest album, ‘Hakkan Lod Bordaikandork’.

Songs from the album are played on the radio and have

captured the attention of fans around the country.

“I wrote and sang the songs for the album myself. Some songs I composed from real-life experiences, while the others come from my imagination,” Jack said.

The Manager of KT Entertainment, Mr Thavisack Thammavongsa, said they’ve registered more than 40 people as singers, dancers, and musicians, including bands and solo singers. Most of them are modern pop, rock, and R&B singers.

Jack is one of two country singers signed by the company.

“I have many singers in my company now, and I need country singers,” Mr Thavisack said.

“With the right marketing, country songs can win the hearts of fans in far wider numbers than modern music, and I want to add more variety for listeners.”

Jack said “I’m proud to reach this point in my career, because having success in country singing is not easy.”

He admits he can’t expect to always make a living from singing, but one thing he keeps in his mind is to always try his best.

Jack’s country music strikes a chord with Lao fans

Mr Viengthong Laksaiyalai, better known as Jack.

Vientiane Times 23Monday July 9, 2012 Sports

LA PLANCHE DES BELLES FILLES SKI STATION, France (AP) -- Bradley Wiggins gave Britain its first Tour de France leader in 12 years on Saturday, wresting the yellow jersey from Fabian Cancellara after being helped by a powerful escort in the race’s mountain debut.

In the Tour’s first big shake-up, the Sky squad was dominant up the first summit finish to allow Christopher Froome to win the seventh stage from Tomblaine to La Planche des Belles Filles ski station.

The 198-kilometre trek into the Vosges range went a long way toward shaping the three-week race as experts predicted before the start — a showdown between Wiggins and defending champion Cadel Evans.

In a five-rider breakaway group on the final climb, Evans tried an attack just before the super-steep climb in the last kilometre, but Froome beat him by two seconds as Wiggins stayed close to the Australian’s back wheel.

After the finish, compatriots Wiggins and Froome hugged, with Wiggins becoming the first Briton since David Millar in 2000 to wear the yellow jersey.

Cancellara, the Swiss time-trial specialist who had worn the jersey since winning the prologue a week ago, is 1 minute, 52 seconds behind Froome — but more importantly 1:50 back of Wiggins.

The Sky leader, who began the day seven seconds behind Cancellara in second place overall, leads Evans by 10 seconds. Vincenzo Nibali of Italy was fourth to climb to third overall, 16 seconds behind.

“It’s a great day for the team, we won the stage and took the yellow jersey,” Wiggins said. “This is my first time in the yellow jersey. It’s incredible — it’s been a dream of mine since I was a kid.”

Wiggins has more breathing room than Cancellara had over the 199 kilometres, with only five riders within a minute of his time, including Denis Menchov of Russia, who won the 2009 Giro d’Italia and Spanish Vuelta in 2005 and 2007. The Swiss rider, by contrast, had had 22 riders within 48 seconds of his time before Saturday’s ride.

Wiggins, a three-time Olympic track gold medalist, became the pre-race favourite after winning the Paris-Nice, Tour de Romandie and

Criterium du Dauphine stage races this year.

With two time trials and more climbing days in the Alps and Pyrenees still to come, Wiggins played down speculation that he might’ve taken the lead too early with the finish in Paris on July 22.

“You can’t get too cocky in this race and choose when you take the yellow jersey. I’d much rather be in yellow than in hospital — like half the peloton,” he said, referring to crashes on Friday that forced at least 12 riders to quit the race.

Wiggins crashed out of the 2011 Tour because of a broken collarbone and said he felt “lucky” he has been trouble-free this year.

Froome was part of the Team Sky phalanx that powered up the final climb. With most rivals falling away, the Kenyan-born Briton

overcame Evans’ late surge to burst ahead to the finish.

“He was really strong. He controlled the last two to three kilometres well,” Evans said of Froome. “I thought I could anticipate it thanks to the turn and gain some speed to launch the sprint, but he had the legs and overtook me.”

The 35-year-old Australian senses he’s in for a challenge from Sky.

“With Wiggins on a team like that, it’s going to be difficult,” Evans said.

Froome, who took the polka-dot jersey as the Tour’s best climber, said he was surprised Evans couldn’t keep pace. The Australian was puffing and his face glistening with sweat as he crossed the

finish.“I kept waiting for him to

go, but he never really went. To me that says one thing — that he didn’t have the legs,” Froome said. “It really wasn’t a big acceleration that I put in. I went for it and just coasted toward the line.

“Hopefully he’s not holding anything back, and he’s not going to surprise us in the next few days,” Froome said. “I think that he and Bradley looked to be quite on par.”

Wiggins said he was focusing on Evans.

“You saw it today, Cadel never gives up,” Wiggins said.

The stage marked the first of three summit finishes in this 99th Tour. Nimbler mountain specialists seized the limelight after a first week dominated by sprinters across the flatter regions of Belgium — where the race began June 30 — and northern France.

Wiggins takes Tour de France lead after 7th stage

Christopher Froome wins the seventh stage of the Tour de France cycling race in France on Saturday. --Photo AP

KOHLER, Wisconsin (AP) -- Na Yeon Choi had one of the best rounds in US Women’s Open history, taking control of the tournament with a 7-under 65 in the third round at Blackwolf Run on Saturday.

The fifth-ranked South Korean star’s remarkable round put her at 8 under for the tournament, giving her a six-stroke lead over Amy Yang. Only four players ever have posted a lower round in the Open, and the 65 tied the lowest third-round score in the event’s history.

“I couldn’t believe how I got eight birdies today,” Choi said. “But I did. And I’m very happy, and I’m very satisfied and I’m very excited.”

As Choi surged despite windy conditions, Michelle Wie faded, shooting a 6-over 78 to fall to 2 over. Wie shot a 66 in the second round and came into the day a stroke behind second-round leader Suzann Pettersen.

“It was a lot of fun being in contention,” Wie said. “I’m still not out of it. Don’t count me out just yet.”

Pettersen also shot 78 on Saturday and slid to 1 over, but still hoped to get back into contention.

“You know what, there’s birdies out there,” she said. “I think the wind is going to be a little bit less tomorrow from what I’ve seen. So if you get off to a hot start, hopefully put a number down early in the clubhouse. Who knows?”

Yang had a 69. Choi and Yang were the only players to break 70 in the round.

“I’m just going to keep being patient tomorrow, try to do my best,” Yang said. Lexi Thompson, Mika Miyazato and Sandra Gal were tied for third at 1 under. The 17-year-old Thompson had a 72, Miyazato shot 73, and Gal had a 74.

“Seven under at an Open is pretty good, I would say,” Thompson said about Choi’s round. “So she’s leading by a good amount, but I’m still going to go for it.”

Top-ranked Yani Tseng struggled, shooting a 78 and fading to 8 over.

Tseng said she had trouble feeling comfortable with her club selection at times as she tried to deal with the wind and tough pin placements.

And Tseng said she didn’t see too many opportunities for low scores out there, adding, “Except Na Yeon.”

Choi has five career LPGA Tour victories. She tied for second in the 2010 US Women’s Open. And she credits Pak for helping to inspire those accomplishments.

Choi recalls watching the 1998 Open on television. At the time, she said she already was thinking about trying to make it as a golfer in South Korea — but when Pak won, her conceptions

of what might possible changed dramatically.

“I changed my goal: ‘I have to go to the LPGA Tour and I want to win on the LPGA Tour,’” Choi said. And given the source of her inspiration, winning at Blackwolf Run would be extra special.

Choi came into Saturday at 1 under for the tournament and started posting low numbers right away. She had only 26 putts, and is optimistic she’ll be able to continue putting well.

“I have a good feeling about my putting speed and putting strokes,” Choi said. “So I hope to get good results tomorrow.”

Choi had four birdies on the front nine, including back-to-back birdies to start the round. She made y 20-foot putt to birdie No. 7.

Sangkhomsay Bubphanouvong

Luang Prabang provincial Education and Sports Department has sent

a team of the province’s top youth athletes to compete at the 46th Lao Sports Day games, to be hosted by Khammuan province on July 13-16.

The team includes 34 boys and 32 girls who will be hoping for medals in the petanque, muay lao, boxing, badminton, taekwondo, table tennis and track and field events, as well as seven trainers.

Department Deputy Director Mr Chandy Bounhong said the province had hoped to send football and sepak takraw teams to the games, but could not because of budget limitations. The province was also unable to

send a volleyball team for the same reason.

Mr Chandy said the department set aside 330 million kip to train the teams ahead of the games.

“Our goal is to use these events to train the new generation of athletes in preparation for the National Games in Oudomxay province in 2014, and we have high hopes of winning gold medals at the Lao Sports Day games,” he said.

“We would like to see our new athletes use their skill and bravery at the games. They are keen to represent their province so we will open a chance for talented athletes to attend the games.”

Luang Prabang athletes, trainers and sports department officials travelled to Khammuan province on July 7 to prepare for the opening of the event.

At the National Games last year, host province Luang Prabang won 49 gold, 44 silver and 72 bronze medals. The province’s men’s football team took the silver medal at the games.

In 2007, Luang Prabang hosted the National Student Games. The province has many budding athletes attending its colleges and secondary schools, while some have moved to Vientiane to train and study.

After Lao Sports Day, the Luang Prabang sports department will train up its young athletes for the National Traditional Games, which include top spinning and maklae, a game played with the seeds of the maklae tree.

The traditional games will be hosted by Xekong province in November.

Luang Prabang sends top youth athletes to

Lao Sports Day

Choi shoots 65, takes control in US Women’s Open

Na Yeon Choi putts during the US Women’s Open golf tournament on Saturday. --Photo AP

RIO DE JANEIRO (Xinhua) -- Brazilian football’s star signings Diego Forlan and Clarence Seedorf had a message for fans of their respective new clubs on Saturday: they have come to Brazil to win trophies.

In Porto Alegre, Uruguay striker Forlan told supporters of Internacional that he was fulfilling a lifelong goal by playing in Brazil, where his father represented Sao Paulo and Cruzeiro.

“I’ve always liked Brazilian football and have watched it since I was a kid,” the 33-year-old said before Internacional’s match against Cruziero, which the home team won 2-1

Forlan, winner of the 2010

Golden Ball award for the best player at the 2010 World Cup, agreed to a three-year contract with Internacional on Friday.

His move follows a disappointing season with Inter Milan in Italy’s Serie A, where he scored just two goals in 20 matches across all competitions.

“The reception I’ve had from fans since arriving has been incredible,” Forlan said. “Now I just want to start training and playing as soon as possible. I want to have success here and know that I can get back my best form.”

In Rio de Janeiro, former Dutch international midfielder Clarence Seedorf arrived at the Engenhao stadium by helicopter

and was welcomed with a fireworks display and ticker tape explosions.

“Good night, fans,” Seedorf said, in perfect Portuguese. “I have arrived and now my time at Botafogo will begin.

“Thank you for everything, for your support. Next week I will start working towards helping Botafogo move to the top.” The former AC Milan playmaker then watched Botafogo move to sixth in Brazil’s Serie A standings with a 3-0 victory over Bahia.

On Friday the 36-year-old was greeted by an estimated 2000 Botafogo fans upon his arrival at Rio’s international airport.

Forlan, Seedorf pledge success to new clubs

Vientiane Times 25

Read more news at www.vientianetimes.org.la Monday July 9, 2012

Business Vientiane Times

Euro 50-500 9,900 9,949

Exchange rates as of july 06, 2012Banque pour le Commerce Exterieur Lao

Foreign Currencies Buying Selling

US Dollar 50-100

Thai Baht

8,005

253.68

8,044

254.95

Insi

de Plastics industry urged to modernisepage B2

Italy, Germany to strengthen cooperation to overcome crisis: Italian PMpage B2

Private home prices rise by 0.4 percent in Singaporepage B3

Asia News Network, The Star

PETALING JAYA -- Domestic demand is expected to slow down to 7.4 percent in the second quarter of this year compared with 10.4 percent in the final quarter of 2011.

Alliance Investment Bank Bhd chief economist Manokaran Mottain said in a report that the downtrend in domestic demand was in line with the poor growth in global demand, particularly in regard to trade-related and investment activities.

“During the quarter, private consumption is expected to rise further, albeit at a slower pace of 6.5 percent, still benefiting from the many government initiatives announced during the last budget and implemented in the first half of this year.

“These include the upward revision of public sector wages and the one-off financial assistance to the low and middle-income groups,” he said in a report yesterday.

Manokaran expects private investments to continue growing in the current quarter

but at a slower pace of 12 percent, supported by domestic-oriented industries and the ongoing implementation of projects under the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP).

“Public sector investments and expenditure will remain supportive of growth this year, with higher capital expenditure by the government and non-financial public enterprises,” he said, adding that he was turning cautiously optimistic about the domestic economic recovery.

“In this regard, we are now projecting the real gross domestic product (GDP) growth to moderate further to 4 percent in the second quarter of 2012 from 4.7 percent in the first quarter.”

In line with the volatile external conditions resulting from the eurozone debt crisis, the continued correction in commodity prices and weaker-than-expected public spending, Alliance Research is projecting slower GDP growth of 4.2 percent this year, decelerating from 5.1 percent last year.

While the projected GDP

growth of 4.2 percent is based on the assumptions of a global economic moderation with some resolution to the debt crisis (with Greece remaining in the union) as well as timely and full implementation of measures announced in the 2012 Budget and ETP, we have taken note of several downside risks to growth.

“These include a further deterioration in global investor confidence, the increasing likelihood of a prolonged eurozone debt crisis as well as a steeper slowdown experienced in the larger regional economies such as China.”

On the domestic economy, Manokaran said one of the key risks was the rising level of fiscal deficit (from the estimated 4.7 percent of GDP in 2012) due to the potential increase in subsidies as a result of high global crude oil prices and lower GDP growth.

m’sian domestic demand expected to slow in Q2

Kuala Lumpur Tower is seen behind an under construction commercial high-rise building.

Yichang, Asia News Network, China Daily

The Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydropower project, started working at full capacity on Wednesday as the last of its 32 large turbine generators was put into operation.

The last generator, or the dam’s No 27 generator, is one of six generators that make up the dam’s underground power plant. The other 26 units are situated inside the mountain on the left and right sides of the riverbank.

“With a combined generating capacity of 22.5 million kilowatts, the full operation of the generators makes the Three Gorges Dam the world’s largest hydropower project and largest base of clean energy,” Zhang Cheng, general manager of China Yangtze Power Co. Ltd., the operator of the generators, said at a Wednesday ceremony held in Yichang in Central China’s Hubei province.

The last generator was designed and manufactured

by China Dongfang Electric Machinery Co. Ltd. and was installed by the China Gezhouba Group Mechanical and Electrical Construction Co. Ltd.

Workers began installing the generator in late January of last year. The generator successfully passed a 72-hour power grid trial in May this year.

“Its operation demonstrates that China’s technology related to designing, manufacturing, installing and adjusting large evaporative air cooling units has become mature. We have full intellectual property rights for certain cooling technologies,” said Zhang Chengping, director of the Mechanics Engineering Bureau under the China Three Gorges Corporation.

The Three Gorges Project, launched in 1993 with a budget equivalent to US$22.5 billion, consists of a dam and a five-tier ship dock, in addition to the 32 generators.

The dam’s first generator went into operation on July 10, 2003. All of the 26 generators on the two sides of the dam

had gone into operation as of October 2008.

The Three Gorges Project generates electricity, controls flooding by providing storage for water and adjusts shipping capacity on the Yangtze River, China’s longest waterway.

“The project has not only eased power shortages and boosted the country’s economic development, but also played a significant role in developing clean energy and cutting greenhouse gas emissions,” said Li Pingshi, director of the Three Gorges Power Plant.

As of Wednesday, it has generated 564.8 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity, Li said.

The dam withstood three major floods last summer, taking the edge off the fierce flows by holding back the majority of the floodwaters in its reservoir to ease the flood’s impact on the river’s lower reaches.

The dam reservoir releases water in the dry season to ease droughts, particularly in downstream rice-growing areas.

Three Gorges Dam at full capacity

Photo taken on July 3, 2012 shows the Three Gorges Dam in Yichang, Central China’s Hubei province.

26 Vientiane Times

B 2 Monday July 9, 2012

Corporate earnings will determine this week’s trendThis week, the Q2 earnings season kicks off with just a few reports, which should reflect the fallout from slower global growth and the EU crisis which is hurting corporate bottom lines. Alcoa results are due Monday, followed by Chevron on Wednesday, plus JPMorgan on Friday. Copper at a new low is expected to rebound this week.

It wasn’t a surprise as stock markets dried up on Friday as the euro hit a new two-year low against the US dollar and crude oil prices slumped more than 3pct on Friday fueled by disappointing US jobs growth figures which then reinforced worries the American economy. US stocks Friday declined, erasing all the weekly gains for the Standard & Poor's 500 Index. Trevali Mining Corp. (TV), a Canadian silver and zinc producer with operations in Peru, tumbled the most in five weeks, dropping 4.2 percent to 92 cents. Southern Copper Corp. (SCCO PE), the nation's biggest copper producer, slid 1.2 percent to US$31.70. Freeport McMoran Copper & Gold Inc. fell 1.3 percent to US$35.01 with 25,987,900 shares traded. Ford Motor Co. fell .7 percent to US$9.50 with 29,881,400 shares traded. General Electric Co. fell 1.6 percent to US$20.00 with 55,710,200 shares traded. JPMorgan Chase & Co. fell 1.4 percent to US$33.90 with 31,229,600 shares traded. Bank of America Corp. fell 2.0 percent to US$7.66 with 109,955,300 shares traded. Citigroup Inc. fell 1.8 percent to US$26.36 with 27,004,100 shares traded.

Gold Reach Resources announced early June the expanded http://finance.yahoo.com/news/gold-reach-adds-another-drill-123000873.html drilling programmes assay results are due out possibly early this week. If as expected, the share price for GRV could take on another spike, similar to that witnessed in July.This week is expected to be another very ordinary week. A lot will depend on this week’s corporate results, plus Chinese data, starting off today with inflation and export data, and GDP by Friday which will include retail sales, and industrial output.

Asia News Network, VNS

HCM City -- Experts have urged the plastic sector to buy advanced technology and use more automated procedures to meet quality, hygiene and safety standards of both Vietnam and other countries.

Vietnam Plastic Association (VPA) told attendees at its congress held last Saturday in HCM City that the industry

should gradually eliminate outdated technology and machines.

They said companies needed to increase investment in large-capacity production chains to make high-value products and to produce more raw materials and components in Vietnam to increase the localisation rate.

Advanced technology investment would create high quality and environmentally friendly products to compete in domestic and foreign markets, they said.

Currently, most plastic companies import machines and technology from other Asian countries. In 2008, the

import turnover of Vietnamese plastic sector’s machines was US$363.76 million.

Speakers at the congress urged the sector to develop new products to meet the increasing demands of domestic and international markets.

They also said that Vietnam should focus on building national trademarks to compete in the international market.

The plastic sector has

an important role in the economy, and it should develop in accordance with the country’s industrialisation and modernisation, the VPA urged.

The plastic sector aims to reach export turnover of US$3.2 billion by 2015 and US$7 billion by 2020.

Currently, the country has about 530 plastic exporters. Vietnamese plastic products are present in more than 150 countries, with the 10 largest import markets being the US, Japan, Cambodia, Germany, the UK, Netherlands, France, Taiwan, Malaysia and Philippines.

Experts urged the industry to produce more technically

advanced plastic for the automobile, motorbike and electronics assembly industries for the 2016-2020 period.

By 2025, the country should aim to have waste-recycling or processing factories for plastic products and plastic raw materials, according to several speakers at the congress.

Companies should try to use more recycled plastic as a source of raw materials,

not only for environmental reasons but also because of lower prices and savings in foreign currency for imported materials, they said.

According to the VPA, the country would save more than US$600 million per year and increase export turnover by 25 percent if it used 35-50 percent of recycled plastic raw materials.

The VPA also plans to promote the image of the country’s plastics sector in international markets through media, websites, foreign magazines and fairs. It will also organise more business trips for local companies to survey new and potential markets.

ROME (Xinhua) -- Italy and Germany together can help Europe overcome its economic crisis, Italy’s Prime Minister Mario Monti said on Wednesday after meeting German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Rome.

Italy and Germany “are among the EU countries most willing to move towards a sharing of sovereignty if this can mean more effective economic policy instruments to bring the entire EU to a level of competitiveness of which Germany is a strong example,” Monti told a joint press conference after the Wednesday meeting.

Italy, he pointed out, does not need external aid, so it will not ask for help from the existing rescue mechanisms in the EU because “luckily it is not in the same conditions of Greece, Ireland and Portugal.”

The Italian government intends to “pursue with determination the path of budget balancing, fiscal discipline and structural

Plastics industry urged to modernise

Producing plastic pipes at North Binh Minh Plastics Litmited Company.

reforms in view of a growth that we hope will arrive as soon as possible,” he said.

After approving a labor market reform last week, his cabinet of technocrats was now working hard for revising and reducing public spending, also to avoid an increase of the value added tax (VAT) which would further hamper the recession-hit economy, he said.

Reducing the burden of public sector in markets, including financial markets, will especially create more work opportunities for youth, whose unemployment rate has reached a “clearly unacceptable” 36-percent threshold, Monti added.

Merkel agreed that Italy and Germany “want to overcome together all the doubts and weaknesses of Europe.”

“If our European neighbors are in crisis, Germans themselves will have problems: it is in our interest that all other countries have a positive economic

development, otherwise Germany will not maintain its prosperity,” she stressed.

The Chancellor also praised “the variety of reforms undertaken by the Italian government in a very short time,” along with “very fundamental decisions.”

The meeting was attended by several ministers, diplomats and business representatives of the two countries including Italy’s Deputy Economy Minister, Vittorio Grilli, and German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schauble.

It followed a key European Union (EU) summit last week, during which Monti won his plea to have EU funds from a permanent rescue mechanism European Stability Mechanism (ESM) used to reduce borrowing costs of countries in need.

“In Brussels we discussed new measures in the short term. I am satisfied, and all 17 countries of the Eurogroup are satisfied because they have reached unanimous conclusions,” said Monti.

Italy, Germany to strengthen cooperation to overcome crisis: Italian PM

Vientiane Times 27

Continued from last issue

Monday July 9, 2012 B 3IN BRIEF

Oil down near US$86 after Europe, China rate cuts SINGAPORE (AP) -- Oil fell to near US$86 a barrel on Friday in Asia amid doubts that Europe and China’s interest rate cuts will be enough to halt an economic slowdown. Benchmark oil for August delivery was down US$1.12 at US$86.10 a barrel at midday Singapore time in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Crude fell 44 cents to settle at US$87.22 on Thursday in New York.

Asia stocks fall despite global stimulus measures SINGAPORE (AP) -- Asian stocks were lower on Friday as investors brushed off monetary stimulus measures by China, Europe and Britain as insufficient to reverse a global economic slowdown.An interest rate cut by the European Central Bank on Thursday and a pledge by the Bank of England to boost money in circulation were in line with analyst expectations and failed to jolt investors out of worries about slowing global growth.

Philippines says S&P upgrade nod to fiscal policy MANILA, Philippines (AP) -- The Philippines says a credit rating upgrade by Standard & Poor’s will help the country carry out reforms without weakening its financial position. The agency on Wednesday raised the Philippines’ long-term foreign currency credit rating to BB+ from BB, one notch below investment grade. It kept the rating outlook at stable.

Smartphones expected to boost Samsung 2Q result SEOUL, South Korea (AP) -- Samsung Electronics Co., the world’s top maker of mobile phones, memory chips, flat-screen panels and televisions, will release guidance for its second-quarter results on Friday, giving insight into its performance before the disclosure of full results at the end of this month.Even though Samsung is expected to report a record-high operating profit for another quarter on the back of strong demand for Galaxy smartphones, its share price has lost steam since closing at a record high on May 2.

China new bank lending to top 8 trillion yuan: reportBEIJING (Xinhua) -- China’s bank lending may expand at a “moderate” range this year and the growth rate will see a notable retreat amid the slowing economy, according to a report released on Tuesday by the China Banking Association.The association predicted new yuan-denominated loans would total 8 trillion yuan (US$1.27 trillion) to 8.5 trillion yuan in 2012, higher than 7.47 trillion in 2011.

Trisha Tsuei, Asia News Network, The Straits Times

Prices for private homes have risen by 0.4 percent in the second quarter of this year, according to flash estimates released by the Urban Redevelopment Authority

(URA) last week.Non-landed private

home prices increased by 0.6 percent, while prices for properties outside the central region went up by a more moderate 0.4 percent. There was no change in the prices in the rest of the central region.

The latest price increase is a reversal of last quarter’s price decrease of 0.1 percent, the first quarterly price fall since Q2 of 2009.

More detailed data will be revealed on July 27 when URA releases the full second quarter real estate statistics.

Asia News Network, Jiji Press The Daily Yomiuri Online

Business sentiment among large Japanese manufacturers improved for the first time in three quarters in June, although it remained in negative territory for the third consecutive quarter, the Bank of Japan’s Tankan quarterly survey showed last Monday.

The improvement reflects a recovery in domestic demand on the back of reconstruction efforts in areas devastated by the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami as well as government subsidies for eco-friendly vehicles, analysts said.

A halt to the yen’s rapid appreciation against other major currencies also shored up business sentiment, they said.

The closely watched diffusion index for large manufacturers’ current business conditions stood at minus 1, against minus 4 in the previous March survey.

It stayed in minus territory for June amid concern over a slowdown in overseas economies due to the European credit crisis, analysts said.

The diffusion index represents the percentage of companies reporting favorable business conditions minus those feeling the opposite.

Among large manufacturers, business sentiment improved in seven of the 16 sectors. The index for the automotive sector rose four points to plus 32 and that for the electronic machinery sector improved three points to minus 14.

The business outlook index toward in September stood at plus 1 for large manufacturers.

But there are signs of cautiousness about their business prospects.

The outlook index for automakers came to 15, down a sharp 17 points, with the government subsidy program for eco-friendly vehicles expected to expire this summer.

The Bank of Japan survey

Asia News Network, The Korea Herald

South Korean tech giant Samsung Electronics Co. said on Friday that it had probably posted a record operating profit in the second quarter on strong sales of its flagship Galaxy series smartphones.

Samsung, the world’s largest maker of memory chips and smartphones, estimated its operating profit at 6.7 trillion won

(US$5.9 billion) for the April-June period, up 78.7 percent from a year earlier and 14.5 percent from three months earlier.

The earnings guidance was in line with a median forecast of 6.7 trillion won by 18 securities companies polled by Yonhap Infomax, the financial arm of Yonhap News Agency.

Samsung’s second-quarter revenue rose 19.2 percent on-year to reach 47 trillion won, the company said. A net profit estimate was not provided.

Samsung is scheduled to unveil its quarterly earnings at the end of this month, the first report to be given after chief executive officer Kwon Oh-hyun was appointed to head the company.

The company did not give reasons for its estimate, but market watchers said brisk

Asia News Network, The Jakarta Post

The government is still expressing its disappointment over the decision of BlackBerry smartphone producer Research in Motion (RIM) to choose Malaysia over Indonesia as the location for its new production base, kompas.com reported on last Tuesday.

Deputy Trade Minister Bayu Krisnamurthi said that BlackBerry demand in Indonesia far exceeded that in Malaysia.

“We are disappointed over RIM’s decision, why would they build their base there [in Malaysia]? We actually have a bigger market,” Bayu said as quoted by kompas.com.

The number of cellular

Private home prices rise by 0.4 percent in Singapore

The Paterson Suites, a condominium development at Paterson Road.

Business sentiment rises in Japanshowed that the current business conditions index for large nonmanufacturers came to plus 8, rising from plus 5 in the March survey and posting an improvement for the fourth consecutive quarter.

Supported by steady consumer spending, the index for large nonmanufacturers hit its highest level since the collapse of US investment bank Lehman Brothers in September 2008.

By sector, the current conditions index for the construction industry improved six points to minus 1 and that for the hotel and restaurant industry improved 11 points to plus 3.

The business outlook index for large nonmanufacturers came to plus 6, down two points.

Large companies plan a 6.2 percent year-on-year increase in capital spending for fiscal 2012, which started in April, on an all-industry basis, hitting the highest level for a June survey since a 7.7 percent rise projected for fiscal 2007.

Of them, manufacturers plan a 12.4 percent rise, while nonmanufacturers project 3 percent growth.

According to the latest survey, large manufacturers assume an exchange rate of 78.95 yen to the dollar for fiscal 2012, against 78.14 yen in the March survey.

Yoshimasa Maruyama, chief researcher of major trading house Itochu Corp., said that the improvement of the headline diffusion index is in line with forecasts, adding that the result reflects corporate earnings recovery.

But the improvement shown in the outlook index was “unexpected,” he said.

Yasunari Ueno, chief market economist at Mizuho Securities Co., said the June Tankan proved “stronger than expected,” with the headline index bolstered chiefly by brighter business sentiment among materials makers due to falls in procurement costs.

phone imports by Indonesia has increased in the first five months of the year, Bayu said.

He pointed out that cellular phones were one of the most influential products in terms of the rise of the country’s imports, and they had also contributed toward the non-oil and gas deficit in May.

The Trade Ministry recorded that the number of cellular phone imports increased by 22.2 percent from January to May. Bayu said that the government had been requesting that phone manufacturers build their production bases in the country to lower import numbers.

“We will push the manufacturers to build their factories here because the demand is huge,” he said.

Indonesia still irked by RIM decision

sales at its mobile business accounted for more than 4 trillion won of the total operating profit.

“The impact of the Galaxy S3 smartphone was maximized thanks to its sole competitor Apple Inc.’s delay in releasing a new product,”

Shinhan Investment Corp. Kim Young-chan said in a report, “More than 6 million units of the latest Galaxy phone have been sold since its rollout in late May, with sales likely to top 25 million units in the second half.”

Kim predicted the company to sell a total of 204 million smartphones in 2012.

Samsung introduced the Galaxy S3 on May 29 in Europe as part of its efforts to jump-start demand in the US$219 billion global smartphone market ahead of its US rival Apple’s iPhone 5 release.

Samsung said shipments of the flagship phone will likely reach the 10 million milestone this month.

Samsung probably sold 49 million smartphones in the second quarter, lower than an earlier projection of 55 million, as supply issues hampered shipments, according to KB Securities Co.

Analysts said most divisions at the tech behemoth saw their operating profit rise

in the second quarter from three months earlier despite concerns over the eurozone debt crisis and other negative factors.

Hanwha Securities Co. analyst Ahn Seong-ho said the company’s liquid-crystal display (LCD) business likely swung to the black after six straight quarters of losses, adding its active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) business also continued to fare well.

Samsung’s chip business with an estimated operating profit of 1 trillion won was hurt by weak dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and NAND chip prices. Market watchers, however, said it is expected to gather ground in the third quarter on the back of a price recovery.

Meanwhile, analysts said continued brisk sales of the Galaxy S3 as well as an improving chip sector will push the company’s third-quarter operating profit to another record high.

“Mobile phones, rather than chips, are now Samsung’s main growth engine. On the back of sustained mobile business growth, Samsung’s operating profit is expected to easily reach the 7 trillion won level,” said Choi Do-yeon, an analyst at LIG Investment & Securities Co.

Samsung puts Q2 operating profit at record 6.7 tln won

Champa Mai & Savanphatthana Weekly newspapersTo subscribe or advertise your products in Champa Mai and Savanphatthana weekly

newspapers, please contact Vientiane Times office, corner of Pangkham and Setthathirath Roads, Vientiane, Laos.

P.O. Box: 5723 Tel: (856-21) 216364, 217593 Fax: (856-21) 216365, 252631 Mobile: (856-20) 5599209 Email: [email protected]

Website: www.vientianetimes.org.la To subscribe or advertise your products in Vientiane Times newspaper in Champassak

province please contact Champa Mai weekly newspaper, Pakxe district. Office: (856 31) 252543; Mobile: (856 20) 5633630 Email: [email protected]

In Savannakhet province at Savanphatthana weekly newspaper, Kaysone Phomvihane district. Office: (856 41) 214204; Mobile: (856 20) 2313102

28 Vientiane TimesMonday July 9, 2012B 4B 4

Vientiane Times 29

Lao land company is one of the leading real estate service agency based in Vientiane.We are specialized in property service sector, and proud to say your needs is our answer. For further inquiry, please feel free to contact us at 020 5551 0155, 23666333, or 021 453 919.030 981 9052, 020 23220022English*French*Japanese * ChineseEmail:[email protected]

Monday July 9, 2012Vientiane Times Classified

Oudalee finds a suitable house for you to live in Vientiane.Traditional Lao house, house with swimming pool, house on the river.House with swimming pool available now.Price range from Kip 3 000 000 and up.Call Oudalee for free advice and pick up at your convenient.10 years experience guarantee.

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mobile: +856-20-5551 2828 or +856-20-28184400Phone: +856-21-263253 Fax: +856-21-222565E-mail: [email protected]

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Issues of Vientiane Times from 2001 to May 2012 have been recorded on CD-ROM. Now available at Vientiane

Times office. Corner Setthathirath/Pangkham

Roads, Nam Phu, Vientiane. P.O. Box: 5723,

Tel: (856-21) 216364, 217593.

Fax: (856-21) 216365Email: [email protected]

Vientiane Times on CD-ROM

Bouakham HOUSE RENTAL

We can show you Land, Houses or Apartments in any location. Call us!

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30 Vientiane Times

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C 2 Classifieds Monday July 9, 2012

Sale Agents for Lao AirlineThai Airways, Vietnam Airlines

& World Wide Air-Tickets serviceTel: 900241-242-243New Tel: 454034-36

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Vacancy announcement

unITEd mInInG & MENERALS (LAO) CO.,LTD is now looking for the following

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1. Secretary 1 position2. Accounting 1 position3. Cashier 1 positionQualifications Required: - had related professional of

Bachelor degree or above;- Fluent spoken and written

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- For the secretary position: had to be a good look women, age: 23- 30;

- For the Accounting position: had to have the experience for accounting, if have the knowledge in International accounting will be advance consider.

Interested can contact us: Ban Naxay village, No. 192, Xaysettha district, Vientiane Lao.P.D.RContact number: 021 998889; 020 2222 1637

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Oxfam is working for a just world without poverty

Oxfam’s goal in Laos is to contribute to a fair and open Lao society where women and men equally enjoy their rights to a sustainable life. Oxfam has been working in Lao PDR since 1989.

As part of the Oxfam Program, Oxfam Australia currently works in Vientiane Province, Salavan and Sekong and is seeking an experienced Team Leader to join our team. We are offering very competitive benefits.

TEAM LEADER – DISASTER RISK REDUCTION (LANGOCA) Duty Station: Kaleum District, Sekong Province

Main Responsibilities: - Provide implementation support to project partners to meet the project objectives- Monitoring and reporting on implementation of the district activities by partners

(personal work plan, field visit and expense reports)- Regularly communicating with partners to identify project support needs, monitor

project activities and report project progress- Responsible for strengthening technical capacity of the district partners in

delivering the projects- Managing district project funds and taking responsibility for expenditures of

district project funds and reporting expenditure - Identify and developing partnership opportunities with stakeholders within the district

to collaboratively prepare required action plans enabling the project outcomes- Facilitate participation of people in the community in creating planning and

implementing activities

Required competencies and experience:- Relevant qualifications or skills in rural livelihoods development, especially public

health, disaster risk reduction, monitoring, evaluation and reporting, project management or other relevant disciplines

- Experience in the successful partnership with local Government partners in delivering projects in a development and/or humanitarian context in one or more challenging locations

- Ability to plan and manage activities and budgets- Sound ability to work independently and make autonomous decisions from time

to time- Ability to understand English and the local language Mon Khmer is highly

regarded- Good computer skills

For further information, please refer to the website: www.directoryofngos.org and go to Directory News/Job Openings. To apply please submit your CV and application letter addressing how you meet each of the criteria listed above (include copies of relevant certificates and 3 references) by 22 July 2012. Fax: 021 414660, Mail: PO Box 2927, Ban Thatlouang Tai, Xaysetha, Vientiane, Email: [email protected] We promote diversity and practice equity. Female candidates are encouraged to apply.Only short-listed applicants will be contacted for a personal interview.

lady BEauTy maSSaGE Ms. Kham

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at Ban SapanmorFoot massage: 40.000 kip/ hour Body massage: 40.000 kip/houroil massage: 60.000 kip/ hour

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land FoR SalE (In Vang Vieng)

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(Price negotiable)about land: - 4,710 m2 - 46m (on main road) x 100m (able to be extended into the mountain area in the back) - About 15 km north of central Vang Vieng Town (3 km south of Pha Tang Vang Vieng). - Located in the same area of well-known and popular caves, such as Tam Hoy, Tam Xang, Tam Loub and Tam

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Contact for more info & photos:• Tel: (856)20 55 211 883 or 55 444 893• Email: [email protected] [email protected]

Vientiane Times 31

Email: [email protected]

Monday July 9, 2012 Classifieds C 3

Win a term of free English lessons by playing the Lao Red Cross Youth Competition. From all correct entries, one winner will be drawn month. This month’s winner will receive a notebook and a T-shirt promoting HIV/AIDS awareness. From all monthly winners, one lucky winner will receive one full term of English lessons donated for free by Vientiane College.

This month we have another word game for you. Just unscramble the following 5 words and place them in the boxes provide. For the right answers we will give you in the next month .

Cut out this entry form and send it to HIV/AIDS Project, Lao Red Cross, PO Box 2948 or take it to the Lao Red Cross office behind Vat Xiengnhune. Closing date for the competition on Monday, 31 July 2012 at 9.00am.

Name: ______________________ ID Card No: _____________________ Address & Phone Number: ______________

Last month’s answer: Absolute, Acknowledge, Courtesy, Effort and Magazine.

Congratulation to Mr. Hongviseth VILAYSANE . ID Card No: . 01-0138894 He is a winner of free term at Vientiane College.

Please contact to Ms. Phoutthalom for further more information at Tel: 241632.

lao REd CRoSS youTH ComPETITIon!

JOB OPPORTUNITY In Siphandone Landscape

WWF Lao, WWF Cambodia had received funds from The German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the project called “Management and Conservation of Mekong River Wetlands Project” in southern Laos and northern Cambodia. This project will protect biodiversity, sustainable natural resource use, and ecological functions n the three most important wetland sites on the lower Mekong – Siphandone, a 50-km stretch in Cambodia up to the Lao PDR border, and the 56-km Central Section between Kratie and Stung Treng, Cambodia. Together these areas contain nearly 150 km of n the lower Mekong.

WWF Lao Country Office is seeking to recruit a well-qualified and experienced Lao National candidate to work in new project area Siphandone for the following positions:

Project Officer, [Fishery Co-management] - (full time)

Base location: Khong District, Champasak

The Project Officer provides support to the Project Manager in the planning, management, implementation, monitoring and reporting of project activities to ensure compliance with the Project Document and WWF’s contractual obligations and ensure close collaboration between the project management, partners and other relevant stakeholders in the project sites.

Gross salary from: US$4,836 to US$7,248 or Lak38,571,936 to Lak57,810,048 per year depended on qualification.

Full details are in the Job Description/TORs of the position available upon the request to HR unit.

Interested candidates should email a cover letter specified position applied for and CV to: [email protected] with attention to Phonesavanh PHILAVANH, Human Resource Manager. Closing date: July 13th 2012

ÜíÃÀàÌÜàØàÌäÖÀThe United Nations World Food Programme

The UN World Food Programme is the largest humanitarian aid agency in the world. In Laos, WFP is committed to helping to reduce the vulnerability of the population and reduce food insecurity of poor families throughout the country. All WFP staff contributes as a team to this mission.

Vacancy Announcement: Senior Logistics AssistantVacancy Announcement No: WFP LAO 030

Title: Senior Logistics Assistant

Grade: SC-6

Organization Unit: Logistics Unit

Duty Station: Vientiane Office, Lao PDR

A Senior Logistics Assistant will be stationed in the Vientiane Office. Under supervision of the Head of Unit, the Senior Logistics Assistant is responsible for the following duties:

Duties and Responsibilities• Ensure timely update and effective functionality of the WFP

corporate commodity tracking system (COMPAS) within the country;

• Provide technical and user support for all COMPAS stations in the country, and ensure daily replication with the country office and headquarters ;

• Analyse COMPAS data for accuracy and consistency and followup on data reconciliation and compliance with established processes, procedures and documentation;

• Prepare daily, weekly, monthly and quarterly reports on commodity tracking (from COMPAS);

• Ensure effective Landside, Transport, Storage and Handling (LTSH) management - including project budgetary reviews and regular update of LTSH matrices;

• Ensure that accurate and complete accounting, reporting and internal control systems are functioning and that all relevant records are maintained;

• Perform in-depth analysis of the financial aspects of LTSH and recommend improvements to enhance efficiency and or effectiveness;

• Enter data and process information in the established WFP corporate information system (WINGS) – creating Purchase Orders and Service Entry Sheets, among others

• Prepare LTSH funds status reports and other related reports as and when required;

• Review and monitor expenditures against LTSH and allotments, and bring to the attention of the supervisor any potential problems that warrant further review;

• Perform any other duty as and when required.

Education: A degree in university course, preferably supplemented by technical or field related to Logistics/transport activities

Date: 05 July 2012

Contract Type: Service Contract (SC)

Duration: One year (renewable subject to satisfactory performance

and availability of fund)

Deadline for application: 19 July 2012

Experience: • At least five years of practical commercial/professional experience

in one or more of the transportation and ancillary sector: port operations, shipping, clearing and forwarding , air operations, large scale road/rail transport and distribution management

• Good interpersonal skills, ability to interact with government partners at all levels, international organizations and villagers

• Experience working with databases, information systems, and data analysis tools

Desirable Knowledge and Skills: • Experience utilising computers, including word processing,

spreadsheet and other software packages. Knowledge of WFP administrative regulations and rules, and WFP policies and procedures in the area of work.

Language: • Fluency in both oral and written communication in English and Lao.

Application SubmissionApplicants should submit a letter of interest and curriculum vitae (including at least names, contact numbers or email addresses of 3 work referees) in a sealed envelope marked “Confidential” to:

UN World Food ProgrammeDonnokhum Village, Sisattanark DistrictP.O. Box 3150, Vientiane, Lao PDRor email: [email protected]

Please mention the vacancy announcement number and post title on the envelope.

WFP is committed to gender balance in all functions and at all levels. We are committed to increasing the number of female staff in our offices. Female candidates in particular are encouraged to apply.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview. Please note that CVs and other documents submitted to WFP cannot be returned.

uRGEnTly REQuIREd

Financial Consultant : (13 positions)

DUTY STATION : VIENTIANE, LAO PDR

Age 22-35 years old

QUALIFICATIONS :

Bachelor’s degree in related field. At least 1 year in sales or marketing. Excellent organizational and communication skills (written, verbal and interpersonal). Fluency in spoken and written English and the ability to write report in English. Good knowledge of computer application (Microsoft).

Qualified candidates are requested to submit an application containing updated resume, full details of qualifications, references, education certificates, expected salary, and recent photo to;

Mr. Sean SorathInvestment Manager

Mobile : (+856 20) 54 376 314E-mail : [email protected]

ບ້ານ ຫັດສະດີ, ເມືອງ ຈັນທະບູລີ, ນະຄອນຫລວງວຽງຈັນHatsadee Village, 141 Chanthabury district, Vientiane lao PdR

Tel: (+856 21) 254 795/254 796 Fax: (+856 21) 254 933 Website: www.unitedglobalasset.com

ບໍລິສັດທີ່ປຶກສາການຄ້າ ແລະ ການເງິນ ຈຳກັດຜູ້ດຽວCMDK Gold Lao Sole Company Limited

32 Vientiane TimesC 4 Classifieds Monday July 9, 2012

157cd2012

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