Vientiane Times

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SATuRDAY JuLY 25, 2009 ISSuE 170 4500 kip

Discotheques Sharing
face knowledge and Sharapova: ‘I
nationwide culture with am a hundred
shut down professionals percent’
[PAGE 3] [PAGE 8] [PAGE 15]

Abbot preserves history of

uncovered artefacts
Phonesavanh Sangsomboun his dream but I didn’t tell him
about the jars, I didn’t want to
A fascination with the past and scare him.”
a desire to preserve local history The villagers feared the
led an abbot in Khammuan to recovered artefacts were a bad
keep nine jars he uncovered omen and would bring disaster
several years ago despite to their village.
complaints from local villagers. “I thought the Vietnamese
The jars were found in merchant’s dream was just
the grounds of Chomdaeng a coincidence, but after
temple, Pakpeng village, discovering that several local
Thakhek district and had been people had died, I threw six
buried with their owners. They jars into the river to satisfy the
contained bone, pipes, ceramics villagers.
and valuable items that had “I kept three jars and hid
been used when their owners them in my room so the villagers
were alive. wouldn’t know. I realised that
Abbot Vanpheng Xayasone people were still conservative
discovered the items by chance and superstitious which is why
in 1999 when digging a drainage they didn’t want me to keep the
system and building a wall. artefacts. But these items are
“Villagers complained hard to make and they are part
when I removed them from of our national history, I thought
the ground. They believed that they should not be buried,” he
because the owners of the jars said
were dead and were now in a The abbot has had a habit
different world that we should of collecting things since
not disturb them,” he recalled. he was young, particularly
The abbot believed the historic items that had been
artefacts would be important created by skilled people and
to keep because they are rare which he believed should be
and were made with traditional preserved. These days he tries
tools. This history is important to maintain everything at the
nowadays especially because Chomdaeng temple, including
machines have now replaced the wooden columns, roof
traditional tools to create these and the wooden structure
items. that supports the sacred
But the villagers were structures.
The abbot reveals his collections to the public.
not satisfied with the abbot’s In his private room at the
explanation; they were temple the abbot displays his
concerned that he had disturbed personal collection which “These days people’s “Some people might
the spirits. includes walking sticks, pipes, lives are more modern think collecting these kinds
“One night, a Vietnamese betel nut equipment, jars, and they are no longer of items can give you a
merchant came to stay at the ceramics, bowls and swords. superstitious. Since hiding special power, but I disagree.
temple,” said the abbot. “During He likes to show these ancient the remaining three jars, The aim of my collection is
the night he felt that someone treasures to young people and nothing bad has happened. to show younger people part
was trying to wake him up and explain the traditional skills and If I threw them into the river of our history and I want
he could not sleep properly. The tools that were used to create I would be very regretful,” to preserve our national
following day he told me about them. said the abbot. treasures.”

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2 Home News Saturday July 25, 2009 Vientiane Times

WEEKLY NEWS ROUNDUP

Current Affairs
# The first fatal case of A (H1N1) has been reported in Laos with the death of a 31-year-old
man from Borikhamxay province last week. The man, who lived in Paksan district, had a
history of respiratory problems, obesity and diabetes. A brick maker by profession, he was
also a heavy smoker and drinker of alcohol.
From 15 June until the 22nd July, 56 cases of H1N1 have been reported in Laos. Most have
since recovered. Ore than 100,000 cases have been reported in 151 countries and so far with
475 fatalities.
# Chanthabouly district police this week announced they had arrested four thieves after three
months of investigation. District Police Chief, Lieutenant Colonel Khamphuy Phommachith
said most of the men had been previously arrested and jailed for crimes including stealing
motorbikes and drug use.
# Further addressing the situation of retention and failure rates of students from primary to
secondary-school level is part of the Huaphan Education Department’s plans for the 2009-
10 academic year, a provincial education official said on Monday.
In the 2007-08 academic year, more than 1,500 primary students left school before
graduating, out of a total of around 57,000 students in the province, according to a recent
report from the department.
Another 800 secondary school students abandoned their classes, out of a total of 15,584.
Most quit because their parents wanted them to work on their farms. Just over 3.5 percent
Members of the Lao media attend the course. of final year examinees around the province failed the 2008-09 academic year.
# A high-ranking Thai official confirmed on Tuesday the Thai government intends to repatriate

Lao media further

all Lao illegal migrants by the end of this year, despite delays in returning them home over
the last two months. According to a consensus reached by the two sides at the 17th Meeting
of the Lao-Thai and Thai-Lao General Border Committees’ Secretariat held in May in
Vientiane, all Lao illegal migrants in Thailand were to be repatriated by the end of this year,

economic know how

with one group to be returned every month.
# The Napork Agriculture Research Centre has stockpiled 20 tonnes of rice seed to supply to
farmers affected by flooding and drought around the country this year.
The rice is composed primarily of the thadorkkham 8 and 1 varieties, Director of the centre,
Mr Phoummy Inthapanya told Vientiane Times last week.
Souriya Meunviseth non-economists with the “The lectures included Last rainy season, the centre supplied 10 tonnes of rice seed to farmers whose crops were
basic theoretical principles an examination of the damaged by flooding around the country, he said.
Prevailing economic of the global economy, with underlying theoretical # Philippines’ Ambassador to Laos this week paid a visit to the Ministry of Information and
conditions affect people in a focus on the domestic Lao economic concepts such as Culture to discuss assistance to create a documentary celebrating the 450th anniversary of
communities throughout economy. analysis and presentation of Vientiane as the capital of Laos.
the world and members Attendees came from real world examples from Ambassador, Ms Marilyn J Alarilla and Minister of Information and Culture, Mr Mounkeo
of the public should have all sections of the Lao three different economic Olaboun agreed to cooperate in making the documentary and building a reading room at the
unfettered access to economic media including journalists, perspectives - micro and macro National Library of Laos.
information. television reporters and radio economics, and international # Some businesses have failed to meet their requirements under a government regulation
To this end, a three day presenters. economics,” she said. increasing the minimum wage of workers, leading to questions over the implementation of
course on economics for non- “All of the attendees will On of the attendees, Mr the regulation. The Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare in May this year announced an
economists was organised for be introduced to economic Souliyo Sengngam said, “I’d increase in the minimum wage from 290,000 kip to 348,000 kip a month.
Lao media representatives terminology and the like to express my thanks to
by the Lao Journalists economic way of thinking, so the World Bank for funding Business
Association in Vientiane last as to better understand issues the course which is very # The Vientiane Pig Breeding Group will receive a loan of more than 29 billion kip from
week with support lent by the that they may encounter useful for all sections of the the Bank of the Lao PDR to ensure there is no shortage of pork during important events
World Bank when working with World Lao media to comprehend and including the 25th SEA Games later this year.
“We are encouraging Lao Bank economists,” said Dr make use of economic issues # Laos will need to conserve local ownership of some businesses in the service sector despite
media representatives to learn Woroby. in our work.” the likelihood of strong pressure from a number of WTO members to deregulate it, according
about economic issues so The attendees were “Furthermore, this course to Minister of Industry and Commerce, Dr Nam Vinhaket.
they can act as the connection provided with case studies enlarges my economic # Local tourism provider, Villa Lao Group, is expanding services and products to attract more
between Lao people and that focused on specific knowledge on such issues visitors during the upcoming SEA Games in Vientiane.
disseminating important development problems as as inflation and deflation The group operates two villas in Xaysettha and Sikhottabong districts, Vientiane and a
economic information,” said well as current issues in the and how to solve economic resort in Vangvieng district, Vientiane province.
the Economic Professor of global economy and obtained problems wisely. The The company plans to introduce new products and services for tourists including bus tours
Johns Hopkins Univerisy, Dr a better understanding of highlights of the course for to boost customer numbers.
Tamara M Woroby. how economic development me were current policies and # Nampapa Savannakhet has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with DKLS
The objective of the contributes to human fiscal policies, which I found Industries Bhd of Malaysia to conduct a feasibility study into a potential water supply
course was to familiarise development. most interesting,” he said. project. A signing ceremony between General Director of Nampapa Savannakhet, Mr
Phandola Khouanemeuangchanh and DKLS’ Chairman Board, Mr Dato Ding Pei Chai took
place in Malaysia last week.
# The Bank of the Lao PDR (BOL) and South Korea Stock Exchange (KRX) have inked a
joint venture agreement on a Lao stock market to be established in 2010.
The agreement was signed between BOL Governor, Mr Phouphet Khamphounvong and the
Chairman and CEO of KRX, Mr Jung Hwan Lee, in Luang Prabang province this week.
According to the agreement, the Lao government will have a 51 percent share, with the
other 49 percent belonging to KRX. The Lao side will be responsible for the location and
construction of the stock market building.
“People buy books from international sources using the ISBN system, so if Laos doesn’t # Inadequate salary packages and a lack of extras such as social welfare incentives on offer
in domestic workplaces have led to Laos’ unemployment issues, rather than the global
have the system it makes it more difficult for buyers to make international orders.” Director
economic recession, a senior official has said.
of the National Library, Mrs Kongdeuane Nettavong said in Vientiane. While the global economic recession is often used as a reason to lay off workers and has
-Monday, July 20. lead to unemployment problems for many countries across the world, the demand for Lao
workers currently outstrips supply.
The current unemployment figure of 68,000 has increased slightly from the 2005 number
“I believe this was a good opportunity for hotels, restaurants, resorts and tour companies to of just over 60,000. According to Director General of the Ministry of Labour and Social
promote their products and boost tourism in Laos.” A participant at the World Ecotourism Welfare’s Labour Management Department, Mr Khamkhane Phinsavanh social welfare
Exhibition, Ms Khamchanh Phonphila said in Vientiane. incentives are critical to attracting more people to work.
# A major garment maker has expressed interest in moving one of its production bases from
-Sunday, July 18. China to Laos after investigating investment potential in the country, according to a senior
government official.
“Some local services are not good compared with international standards, so the workshop Savanh-Xeno Special Economic Zone Governor, Mr Bouakham Sisoulath said Cherry
Fashion MFY boasted a 20 percent share in the world underwear market.
will upgrade skills to ensure that guests at the games receive the best services possible,”
Representatives are due to visit the Savan-Xeno Special Economic Zone by the end of this
Vientiane Tourism Department Director, Mr Khampadith Khemmanith said in Vientiane. month, hoping to sign an investment agreement with the zone’s administration.
-Monday, July 20. # Sepon Gold and Copper mine in the central province of Savannakhet has settled an agreement
to sell copper to a processing factory in Vientiane to produce electric cable.
The move is very significant as this is the first locally-produced copper to be sold directly
“Advertising signs installed without approval from the Urban Management Authority are to the domestic market for value-added production. MMG Lane Xang Minerals Ltd’s
considered illegal and will be removed,” senior official from Vientiane Urban Development Sepon Gold and Copper is the largest mining operation in Laos. It has now expanded to
and Administration Authority, Mr Nousone Meunviseth said in Vientiane. the domestic market after many years of running an export-oriented policy. This move also
means that the local cable production company in question will no longer need to re-import
-Friday July 17. the Lao-made copper which the country sells in Vietnam and Thailand.
Vientiane Times Saturday July 25, 2009 Home News 3

Discotheques face SNAPSHOTS

nationwide shut down

Ekaphone Phouthonesy other hand, are defined as a place to engage in illicit
as those venues at which love affairs.
The government plans to music is usually provided by He also said the
shutdown discotheques DJ’s playing recorded music. discotheques were places
nationwide after finding The styles found there are where young people practice
out these entertainment usually western electronic unacceptable behaviour.
venues are degrading the music and associated If the authorities allowed
values associated with Lao dancing, seen as encouraging them to continue, the
culture, according to a senior immorality. younger generation would be
official from the Ministry of The discotheques also influenced by unacceptable
Information and Culture. typically had limited lighting, foreign culture.
Mass Culture Department against the requirements of Mr Sipheng expressed
Director General, Mr Lao nightclub regulation, he confidence the ministry would Longan are
Sipheng Vongpanya said on said. carry on its policy, although it now in season
Wednesday the Minister of According to the Ministry could face strong opposition and therefore
Information and Culture had of Information and Culture, from owners of discotheques cheaper. Local
signed a notice to all cultural establishment of discotheques in Laos. producers sell
officials nationwide to shut is illegal in Laos. “We keep close eyes on the fruit for
down discotheques around the However, several local authorities to enforce 4,000 Kip per
country. business people have opened the notice, if they have kilogram at
However, the ministry discotheques in Vientiane problems with business km 52 market
would compromise in the using the Lao-style night club people, the ministry will take in Phonhong
capital as the city is a gathering licenses after finding that the responsibility over people’s district,
place for foreign tourists. In demand for such entertainment complaints,” he said. Vientiane
Vientiane, authorities will service had been increasing. He said the ministry had province.
allow one discotheque in each Mr Sipheng said the urged local authorities to
district to remain open. discotheque owners who host meetings with owners
The authorities hope wanted to keep their of discotheques first so as
to ensure the closure of entertainment venues open they can get informed about
unlicensed discotheque venues must agree to host live music the government policy and
by the end of the year. bands in accordance with the to ensure sufficient time
In Laos, there is a regulation on entertainment to transform their own
differentiation between the venue management. entertainment venues into
definition of discotheque and He said the ministry made new businesses by the end of
nightclub. the decision to shut down this year.
The ministry only allows discotheques in the country “If they fail to transform
establishment of nightclubs, because it wanted to protect their discotheques into new
defined as those venues Lao culture. businesses or Lao style night
which stage a live musical The move came after clubs, they will be ordered to
band. officials found that a number of shut down,” he told Vientiane
Discotheques, on the teenagers used discotheques Times.

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14. Khiri Travel/That Luang Tour Luang Prabang Branch. Vixounalath Road, Ban Vixoun,
Luang Prabang, Tel :(856-71) 254302, Fax: (856-71) 71254303.

Lao Press in Foreign Languages A man reads an illegally-posted advertising sign which somebody attached to a
tree along a roadside in Vientiane. Officials of Vientiane Urban Development
Director General Savankhone Razmountry Administration and Authority started removing the signs this month.
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Vientiane Times Saturday July 25, 2009 5
Business
IN BRIEF A Belgian lawyer finds
US economy
forecast to hit
bottom this summer
business opportunity in Laos
Ekaphone Phouthonesy said. operate businesses in Laos.
LOS ANGELES, (Xinhua) He said the political “The investors have
-- The US economy Laos will be able to attract stability of Laos would to learn that the working
might reach its bottom foreign investment into the make foreign investors feel environment in Laos and in
this summer and modest country if the country’s new confident in investing in the their countries is different and
growth is forecasted for investment promotion law is country. they need to adopt the Lao
2010, according to a report enforced. He said Laos retained style,” he said.
released Wednesday by the That is the view of the plenty of investment potential, Those investors who made
Kyser Center for Economic owner of a foreign business in particular in areas of the effort to understand local
Research of the Los Dr Tamara Woroby.
consultancy firm operating in mining, hydro-electric power tradition and culture would be
Angeles County Economic Vientiane. generation, eco-tourism and the most successful.
Development Commission
(LAECD).
The report said the US
President of Lotus Consult
Mr Generald Walewijk said the
industrial tree plantations.
“Laos is a very stable
country in comparison with
It is estimated that foreign
direct investment has been in
excess of US$1 billion over
Laos’ natural tourism
economy will shrink by
2.7 percent during 2009
and grow modestly by 1.7
some neighbouring countries.
Laos is also an easy and
inexpensive gateway to the
recent years.
Mr Walewijk decided to
set up the consultation firm in
resources key to
percent in 2010.
Inflation is unlikely to be a
problem in the near term,
Asean market,” the Belgian
said in an exclusive interview
with Vientiane Times on
Laos in 2006 after learning that
the country was opening the
door to foreign investment.
economic growth
though higher energy prices Thursday. This gave him the Times Reporters natural tourist sites that can
are cause for concern, the Mr Walewijk forecast that opportunity to use his be utilised by locals to earn
report said. continued increases in foreign knowledge and expertise
Monetary policy makers A Canadian economic expert money and improve their
investment would benefit to help others, as well as has urged Laos to utilise living conditions.
acknowledge the inflation consultancy firms in Laos. play a role in the country’s
risk they are creating by the great potential of its “As we know, Laos has
Foreign investors required development. natural resources to attract no oceans and beaches but
their actions, the report said, honest advice and assistance With a masters degree
but are focused on restoring regional and international it has plenty of mountains
on appropriate laws and from the Free University tourists and boost economic and forests and a lot of
the health of the nation’s regulations before making of Brussels Faculty of Law
economic and the financial growth. untouched land which is rare.
decisions on whether to invest and significant time in
sector. or not, he said. business, Mr Walewijk has “Laos should figure out Awareness of environmental
“A consultation firm is a solid knowledge base exactly what unique products issues is increasing and
Taiwan’s jobless Mr Generald Walewijk. one of the first places which on which to operate the and services it has to offer to as a result sectors such as
push economic growth results ecotourism have immense
rate surges to new legislation, which the Lao
investors need to visit before
making a decision to invest
consultancy.
He worked as a lawyer in and increase income levels potential,” Dr Woroby said.
record 5.94 percent National Assembly adopted and set up a businesses.” Brussels after his graduation. in the country,” Professor of According to the
TAIPEI, Taiwan (The China last month, offered a number Mr Walewijk said He decided to move to Economics at the University Lao National Tourism
Post) -- Taiwan’s jobless of investment incentives although the government had China’s Guangzhou region of Maryland System and Administration, tourist arrivals
rate surged to a new high of including changes that would made committed efforts to for work as a business and Towson University, Dr Tamara in Laos were 1.7 million
5.94 percent in June from entitle foreign investors to integrate the country into the legal consultant in 1996. He M Woroby said at a three people in 2008, an increase of
5.82 percent in May, as buy and sell residential land international community over transferred to Thailand in day course on economics for about 20 percent from 2007.
companies held off on hiring use rights. the past years, there were still 1998 from where he was able non-economists last week in To facilitate economic
because of the island’s “Residential land use a number of challenges for to expand his knowledge of Vientiane. growth, the education sector
recession, shutting graduates rights are very important,” he foreign investors seeking to business in Asia. Laos has many beautiful and critical infrastructure also
out of jobs, according to need to improve.

AirAsia X CEO backs merger with AirAsia Bhd

statistics released yesterday “Even though Laos has
by the Cabinet-level many beautiful tourism
Directorate General of sites they will be under-
Budget, Accounting and utilised if there is a shortage
Statistics (DGBAS). MALAYSIA, Sepang, (The or even Bali. now subsidising AirAsia X. of infrastructure such as
The seasonally adjusted rate Star) -- A merger between “That is why AirAsia “Rubbish, we can clearly transportation, roads and
rose to 5.91 percent in June AirAsia X and AirAsia needs growth from AirAsia dispute that. For the first quarter communication,” Dr Woroby
from 5.84 percent in May, Bhd makes business sense X and for that greater control ended March 31, 2009 our net said.
for the 15th straight gain, and the combined balance of AirAsia X is needed,’’ profit was RM18million and Improving education levels
the same tallies indicated. sheet would make sourcing Azran said. we are net cashflow positive. is essential to sustainable
In the first six months for future funding much Recently, AirAsia group We even had a little cash at economic growth.
of the year, the island’s easier, said AirAsia X chief chief executive officer Datuk RM3million. “It is not only the formal
average unemployment executive officer Azran Seri Tony Fernandes was “We are in a very good educational system which
rate stood at 5.73 percent, Osman-Rani. reported as saying his personal position and on a much the Lao government should
also the highest figure of develop and improve
“It would be difficult for preference was for a merger of firmer footing and now is an
its kind seen since the since AirAsia in the future if it did efficiently and quickly, but also
the two companies. interesting time to talk about
the government began the non-formal educational
not have trunk routes as (this) AirAsia has a 16 percent a merger,’’ Azran said. system,” she said.
compilation of data in 1978. is where the traffic volumes stake in AirAsia X and an Fernandes, in a separate Dr Woroby also gave
come from, so AirAsia needs option to increase it to 30 interview with StarBiz
Garment exporters growth from AirAsia X and percent. recently, said the merger
Azran Osman-Rani … ‘AirAsia
needs growth from AirAsia X.’
some advice on overcoming
the current global economic
sew up new markets the merger allows it to tap The remaining was merely his proposal but recession.
HANOI, Vietnam, (Viet growth opportunities in the shareholders in AirAsia X are felt it was a good model. equity account its venture in “Because Laos’ main
Nam News) — By long-haul markets,” Azran Aero Ventures Sdn Bhd (48 However, no decision has AirAsia X. trading partners have reduced
switching their focus to told StarBiz in an interview. percent), the Virgin Group (16 been made thus far. “They can either put orders for Lao products it
Japan and new markets, “AirAsia cannot continue percent), while Bahrain-based “When we started cash in and increase the is a good time for the Lao
domestic garment and textile to just criss-cross and enter Manara Consortium and AirAsia X, a lot of critics stake from 16 percent to 30 government to stimulate the
manufacturers recently won new markets, it needs a Japan-based Orix Corp hold said we could not do it but percent or do a share swap. economy by spending, but
many more export contracts bigger base,’’ he added. the remaining 20 percent. AirAsia X has turned out to It is a decision only the the important thing is where
last month, making it more the spending is, it should
Given the nature of the Aero Ventures is owned be a very cash-flow positive shareholders can make and
likely export targets for this go towards education and
year would be met. business, which is counter- by Fernandes, Datuk company. Azran will be I am not privy to that,’’ he
cyclical, a large base was Kamarudin Meranun, Datuk going on a roadshow soon to said. transportation which will
The Vietnam Textile and
Apparel Association (Vitas) necessary to balance the Kalimullah Hassan, Lim explain so that people have a Asked when the merger provide long-term benefits.”
now predicts that the textile routes in peak and non-peak Kian Onn and former Air better understanding that this was likely to happen, he “All countries should
and garment industry will months, he said. Canada chairman and CEO long-haul, low-cost model said: “I will be surprised if ensure transparency
increase its total export That is why AirAsia X has Robert Milton. can work,’’ Fernandes said, it happens this year. AirAsia and efficiency in public
value by 1-2 per cent for to sell beyond Kuala Lumpur Fernandes and Meranun adding that the roadshow X has not received any offer expenditure and other sectors
this year compared with that or else only 20 percent of to encourage investment and
are controlling shareholders would cover Kuala Lumpur, and the process cannot begin.
of last year, said Le Quoc economic growth,” she said.
the seats will be taken up. It in AirAsia with a 30.7% Singapore, Hong Kong, New We also have to appoint a
An, Vitas chairman. The She said the government
has to sell destinations, be stake via Tune Air Sdn Bhd. York and London. valuer and AirAsia has to should also focus on monetary
sector would have to gain an
increase of 6 percent in total it in Malaysia or the region, Even though it is still A share swap is likely hold an EGM.’’ and fiscal policies to ensure
export value in the second and 80 percent of those at the idea stage, critics are but Azran said AirAsia had AirAsia X was last the Lao economy steers
half of this year to reach that travelling with AirAsia X already saying the merger is an option to increase its valued at RM1.3billion clear of common economic
level. use AirAsia to travel to necessary to rescue AirAsia stake from 16 percent to 30 when Manara and Orix took problems such as inflation and
Langkawi, Penang, Phuket X as, to them, AirAsia is percent and with that it could up their stakes. deflation.
6 Saturday July 25, 2009 Vientiane Times

Opinion
UNEP urges world to invest
in “greening” economies New water prices hurt
Daniel Ooko

NAIROBI (Xinhua) -- The

UN environmental agency
and to agriculture is critical
for progress. I am delighted
that awareness has increased
already and action is being
Vientiane big families
UNEP last Monday called taken towards that direction. Phonekeo Vorakhoun product and want to make metres a month are charged with five people pays about

V
on the world’s developed Afforestation is about life, a profit from trading it, but 500 kip per litre, up from 24,000 kip each for using the
nations to invest massively in peace and hope and creating ientiane residents all investment in the current 420 kip per litre. For the use same amount of water per
“greening” their economies livelihood for the poor,” the have been water supply company comes of 11 to 30 cubic metres, the person.
in order to set a new path to project leader said. shocked by their from Government budgets new price is 1,000 kip per It is not fair for large
prosperity. Sukhdev noted that beyond water bills as the and is therefore supported cubic metre compared to families to pay a more
Pavan Sukhdev, project the immediate bailout of price increased more than by people’s taxes and some 865 kip previously charged expensive rate than smaller
leader of the Untied National financial firms and the design of 300 percent following the foreign assistance. for between 6 and 30 cubic families.
Environment Programme future international financial introduction of new prices in So the company has a metres. The consumption of As the result, many big
(UNEP)’s Green Economy planning, world leaders must April by the Vientiane Water responsibility to guarantee between 31 to 50 cubic metres families submitted letters
Initiative who is on take bold measures to resolve Supply Enterprise. people can access water at of water now costs 2,500 kip to the local authorities to
secondment from Deutsche the multiple crises plaguing Complaints about the high a reasonable and affordable per cubic metre. ask the Vientiane Water
Bank, said countries should humankind.
rethink economic models and price of water have been heard price. Under the old pricing, the Supply Enterprise to review
“A total of around one
target at job growth in a world percent of global GDP -- that widely in the capital where Improving access to maximum charged was 1060 the new billing scale. They
where leveraging natural is around US$750 billion-- most people rely on the water clean water is also part of the kip per cubic metre for people say the huge increase is not
capital is both an increasing invested in such greening supply provided by the state- Government’s effort to reduce who use more than 30 cubic acceptable or suitable for
constraint and an untapped initiatives over the next two owned company. poverty in Laos, particularly metres of water. Now the Lao in the present economic
opportunity. years would provide the critical Many people said the in rural areas. maximum price is 5,000 kip situation.
Speaking in Nairobi on mass of investment needed to water price adjustment was I agreed that we need for the consumption of more Instead perhaps, the
Monday, Sukhdev said jobs kick start a ‘green economy’ not acceptable given the money to increase the amount than 50 cubic metres. calculation should be based
could be created in clean across G20 nations,” Sukhdev current economic situation on a per capita basis, rather
technology, renewable energy, said. and people’s incomes. However, the company did not talk than on household, as is now
sustainable agriculture and In October last year, the “I don’t know how many about its performance in terms of the case.
other conservation-based UNEP and leading economists percent the price of water The Vientiane Water
businesses. announced the Green has increased, I usually pay management and administration Supply Enterprise has not
“In greening the economy, Economy Initiative (GEI) to about 50,000 kip per month, and how much money they use for explained clearly the reasons
there is a new path to seize an historic opportunity but this month (May) my bill for the increase of the price
prosperity, there are more to bring about tomorrow’s was almost 300,000 kip,” administration activities compared to of water. The company says
jobs, clean and decent jobs economy today. one water user in Sisattanak the production process. it needs more funds to expand
and indeed there is a solution Together with a number district explained. the water network, attract
to persistent poverty,” of UN sister organisations, Water is a basic necessity of water supplied or to expand These figures show the foreign investments and also
Sukhdev told Xinhua in an the GEI will motivate the and it should be a government the network, but this money new prices have resulted an that it wants people to use
interview on the sidelines of governments and businesses obligation to help people should not come from overly increase of between 19 and water more carefully.
an environmental meeting in to significantly increase
Nairobi. access clean water for a fair expensive water prices for 370 percent, based on the However, the company did
investment in the environment
He said the UN as a new engine for economic price. users. volume of the water used. not talk about its performance
environmental agency has growth, job creation, and Water should be a not- It would better if the price According the Vientiane in terms of management
urged the G20 countries to poverty reduction in the 21st for-profit business and owned increase, from the smallest to Water Supply Enterprise, the and administration and how
invest one third of the around century. by the government, but the the largest amounts, was in new price of the was entirely much money they use for
US$2.5 trillion worth of He said ecosystems around policy of the company is to try line with economic growth. appropriate and fair for all administration activities
planned stimulus packages the world provided unique to make a profit by increasing With water bills increasing consumers based on a family compared to the production
on “greening” the world resources for many industries, the price of water to attract as much as 300 percent, of five using no more than process. Some National
economy. noting that protecting coral foreign investment. much more than the 20 50 cubic metres of water a Assembly members have also
The development reefs, a source of tourism, The water company said percent increase the company month. discussed how the new cost
economist said the estimated safeguarding fishing and the main reasons behind water announced, there appears The fact is, Lao people of water would impact on
US$750 billion of green coastal resources, and reducing price adjustment were to to be some mistakes in the have big families, some with people’s lives, especially low
investment, equal to about deforestation would likely be attract investment and to fund calculation system or the as many as 10 people, and it and middle income earners.
one percent of current global targeted in the initiatives. expansion works. information collected by the can be difficult for them to pay They also said the Water
GDP, could trigger significant, The GEI has three It would be difficult to company. their water bill if they use 100 Enterprise should respond
multiple and potentially key elements: the Green expand their water networks Under the new pricing cubic metres per month, they more quickly to water leaks
transformational returns. Economy report that provides and attract the interest of scheme, water is charged at now have to pay 500,000 kip. in public places such as roads
“What we need today is an overview, analysis and investors without a profit. different rates depending on So they pay 50,000 kip per where repairs to broken water
investment not in more of synthesis of how public policy This is useful if you the amount used each month. person using 10 cubic metre pipelines are delayed costing
the same (with economic can help markets accelerate consider water as a commercial People who use up to 10 cubic of water each, while a family both water and money.
stimulus packages). We need the transition towards a green
today investments in greening economy; The Economics of
the economies today and Ecosystems and Biodiversity,
not tomorrow. So when I a project on assessing the
look at the G20 nations and economics of nature and its
I look at two trillion dollars opportunities; and the Green
that are absolutely essential Jobs report (in September
for progress for the next 2008) that evaluated
generation,” Sukhdev said. employment trends from
He added the funds would greening.
assist in powering the global Sukhdev said the UN was
economy out of recession leading a powerful campaign
and onto a green 21st century to encourage the governments
path. to seal the deal on a fair,
He said there were many balanced and effective climate
progress being realised in agreement when they meet in
Africa in terms of “greening” Copenhagen in December this
the economy and cited Kenya year.
as an example. Despite “It’s important to have
progress being made in the deal. We must seal the
environmental conservation, deal as the UN Secretary
there was still destruction General has been saying.
going on in other parts of the We must seal two deals --
country. one on the main deal on the
“Africa is an area and Copenhagen and the other
continent of many challenges. is the deal for reduced
I am delighted to see some emission from the
progress in many parts of deforestation and forest
Africa. We are here in Nairobi degradation,” he said.
and we can see the Mau Forest Sukhdev also said
is severely under stress and I combating climate change can
am happy that the government be a path towards economic
is taking steps to address that,” recovery and an investment
he said. with strong returns today
“You know that fresh and for many generations to
water availability to people come.
Vientiane Times Saturday July 25, 2009 7
Opinion

Streetwise WHAT THE LAO PAPERS SAY

How do you manage waste during the Two snatchers arrested Translated by Bounfaeng Phaymanivong

increase garbage bins in Vientiane? Xaysettha district police have undertaken genuine efforts to arrest bag
snatchers recently.
470 new garbage bins were presented on Monday by the Lao Brewery The latest offenders were Mr Khampheng, 23, a resident of Chommany
Neua village, Xaysettha district, and Mr Phonsack, 21, from the same
Company in cooperation with the Srithai Superware PLC of Thailand. This village and district.
is to improve the cleanliness of the city in the lead-up to important events Mr Khampheng was detained on April 7 for allegations of snatching and
such as the 25th SEA Games in December and the 450th anniversary of stealing money and Mr Phonsack was arrested on June 16 on the same
charges.
Vientiane as the capital of Laos in 2010. However, it is necessary to remind The police said they had committed a crime in January.
local people to throw away waste in the correct manner. At approximately 8pm they began following two women from That
Luang traffic lights. Later near the Setthathirath hospital they snatched a
bag one of the women was carrying.
After snatching the bag from the two ladies, they escaped, hid and
Ounkham Pimmata December.
searched through the contents of the bag for money and valuables. Inside
If local people do not dispose their
they found 3,000 baht (753,000 kip), 80,000 kip and a mobile phone.
An office worker, Ms Ketamphon waste appropriately, it can have a
The ill-gotten gains were shared among the two men; Mr Phonsack got
Pathommachit : negative impact on the country’s
1,000 baht (250,000 kip) and the mobile phone, while Mr Khampheng
image.
received 2,000 baht (500,000 kip) and the 80,000 kip.
We accept garbage bins will help
The offenders are now being judged and served a taste of justice in
to improve cleanliness in Vientiane,
accordance with the law.
but it is not efficient enough if
--Khouamsangob Weekly, July 13-16
residents in communities are not
aware of the importance of throwing
out garbage properly and further
to help each other take care of the
Communication devices correlate
waste.
It is better if suitable authorities
appropriately.
The authorities have to develop
with anti-social behaviour
advise the public of waste disposal, different types of garbage bins and
Communication devices have become one of the most important elements
teach the public and communities
in life; they come soon after accommodation, clean water, food, clothing
If we have a lot of about recycling the waste products
and medicine in the order of importance to our lives.
garbage bins in Vientiane, it will to produce profits and help conserve
However, these items could be cause problems for people in society when
have a positive impact for residents the environment.
they are used in incorrect ways.
in the capital, to conveniently It is very important for people to
Many people from different areas, professions and other social levels
dispose of their garbage. throw their waste into garbage bins
are required to have communication devices, especially in the form of a
However, I believe changing the after they eat food and beverages in
mobile phone.
public’s habits, including changing these public areas.
It allows for us to establish connections among people. It can be a big part
the way they throw away their waste
of success in business and social networking.
is vital. A resident at Chommani village,
The service fee is more or less in line with the general income of Lao
Sometimes I see people throwing Ms Lammon Khamphilavong :
people and they can choose to buy differently-priced calling cards
garbage on roads, around shopping Our country is preparing for two
depending on their financial situation.
malls and in parks, even when there especially passengers on buses not important coming events, so I think
Such communication devices play a most important role in our lives; yet
are garbage bins present. to throw their waste on the roads. garbage bins in Vientiane should be
they sometimes bring negative effects to people as well.
Concerned authorities have to build The market authorities should installed to reduce the disposal of
As with most tools it depends on the motivation of the user. The use
awareness to the local people with use speakers to be an important waste in an improper manner.
of a mobile phone for the conduct of illegal business or other activities
the 3 Rs in their daily lives, reduce, tool to remind traders to clean Shopping malls and markets
against the law are directly harmful to the users as well as to the nation
re-use and recycle. their areas after selling concludes should provide bins nearby so
and society.
This is a step towards making each day. that shoppers can discard waste
This is not an attempt to be negative, but a reminder to those users who
Vientiane an attractive city; properly.
lack mindfulness and use a mobile phone for the wrong reasons.
including teaching the public to A medical student, Mr Sisavath People living near roads should
Therefore, these items must be used correctly and advantageously,
dispose of their waste properly and Nonthavongsa: I agree to increase sweep the leaves and garbage in
adapting them to our daily lives with a commitment to proper and correct
encouraging them to use organic garbage bins in Vientiane, as it front of their houses.
actions in our society.
material, such as banana and lotus makes it easier for the public to take They should not wait for street
--Socio-Economic Daily, July 21
leaves. care of capital and keep it cleaner. cleaners to clear them, especially
People often go shopping or to We know sometimes people to since sometime they cannot clean
markets and get lots of plastic bags
to hold their products and this is
throw their waste on roads and
places if they do not see garbage
around Vientiane. Students and
employees should keep a clean
Clean and well-lit streets ensures
increasing the garbage in Vientiane. bins.
It would be good if concerned
workplace free from waste and
clean their area once per week.
a good-looking city
A resident at Nongtha village, Mr authorities increased the number Each village should increase the
Various relevant sectors in Vientiane are now revisiting their duties in
Sinaxay Saovongxay: Garbage bins of bins at parks and tourist sites number of bins to ensure their
order to ensure everything is ship-shape to welcome the upcoming SEA
are very necessary in the capital, to make it more convenient for communities keep plastic bags and
Games to be held in December in Vientiane.
as we are hosting SEA Games in visitors to dispose of their waste other waste products off the streets.
In the preparation for the important event, some aspects or tasks must not
be overlooked.

A unique French language magazine

Required actions must be attentively implemented in order to receive
good feedback from our guests.
A reader to this column said signs of some organisations, offices and
streets required repair due to missing letters.
Le Rénovateur is a weekly magazine of general information written in French There must be urgent improvement to ensure signage is satisfactory.
and discussing current events in Laos. Readers will find it different from Also, the issue of roadside businesses encroaching on paths and roadways
must also be addressed.
others newspapers and can enjoy news about culture, consult their horoscope Street lights and poles must be checked to ensure they are working well
and creating an appealing atmosphere as to attract more visitors to the
and find out about radio and TV programmes, as well as check on current capital city.
In addition, every construction site in the city must also have a proper
movies at the French Language Centre. There are also cookery items as well fence to ensure the safety of the people and beauty of the streetscape.
as personal profiles. The magazine costs only 10,000 kip per issue, and is Drivers and owners of overloaded trucks should be strictly disciplined
from now on. If the action does not begin now, the roads will not be clean
published every Monday. You can buy it at kiosks or directly from our office on and beautiful.
These important events are coming soon and we have to work harder in
Namphu Square at the Lao Press in Foreign Languages on Pangkham Street order to attain the most positive outcome possible.
--Paxaxon Daily, July 22
in Vientiane.You can also read it on our website: Lerenovateur.org.la
8 Saturday July 25, 2009 Vientiane Times

Education

Sharing knowledge and culture

Phon Thikeo
with professionals
A
cultural experience
in South East
Asia is providing
new concepts
and perception for a new
generation of European and
North American students
A group of 18 students
are taking one month out
of their busy lives to visit
Vientiane with the purpose of
learning the Lao culture and
sharing knowledge with Lao
professionals in several fields.
The idea is to develop their
potential before they enter into
their respective careers.
The 18 students hail Ms Elnaz Balashi and Mr Victor Bourdeau exchange work with
from three universities in reporters at Vientiane Times.
France, and two universities
in Canada and are part of newly developed non-profit potential.
the Responsible Solidarity organisation established by “Our objectives are for Students donate a medical dictionary to Setthathirath Hospital, Vientiane.
Missions International. a group of students from each member of MSR to
All members are at least Concordia University in develop and exploit their “We bring students to Laos “Hopefully it will help going to do our best to raise
bi-lingual, with competency in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. own competencies in their so they can learn and share those students to become more funds.”
French and English languages Victor Bourdeau, President field of study,” he said. with Lao professionals,” Mr better doctors in the future, “As for the funding for
in addition to any others they of the organisation and one MSR offers its members Bourdeau said. since they are still at a young this year, it comes from our
may speak. of the five executives now the chance to build their “For example, some of our age. They are between 19 own pocket.”
Needless to say, they are present in Laos, said MSR was career as part of a solid team members are looking forward and 21 years old and they are He said while this year the
also busy building their skills created by a team of students of passionate individuals, to working in journalism; already being exposed to the medical team only observed
in the Lao language. aiming to be well-acquainted to acquire valuable field therefore it is a very good medical world. doctors at Setthathirath
The organisation, more in humanitarian work in South experience and build first experience for them to “We learn many things Hospital, thanks to the
commonly known by its French East Asia. an important network have the opportunity to work from medical doctors, for signing of the MOU with the
title Missions de Solidarité The organisation’s goal is of relationships while with journalists. We do this example, our medical team has University of Health Sciences,
Responsable International to gather young professionals discovering the unique Lao for Vientiane Times and Le been able to see and observe next year they will be able
(or MSR International), is a in order to develop their culture. Renovateur.” surgery taking place. to observe many provincial
He also mentioned that “It is a unique opportunity hospitals in Laos including
MSR brought students who are for students to observe medical those in Savannakhet, Luang
not studying in medical school practice, because in their Prabang and Vientiane.
yet, but that are planning on home countries in Europe and “By signing the agreement
doing so. They have been North America it is harder to with the university, we
posted to the Setthathirath get the opportunity to observe also express our interest in
Hospital to observe Lao medical doctors and their providing support and public
professionals at work. patients.” health information to ethnic
This allows the students “Our team is looking minority peoples in Laos.”
the chance to have a personal for other opportunities for “We also donated many
first-hand experience and learn contribution to the socio- notebooks, pens and pencils
from the Lao medics. economic development of to Vulnerable Lao Youth
Elnaz Balashi, vice- Laos.” Development Association
president of MSR, said Mr Bodeau explained that (VYDA).”
members were not only this year was the first visit The MSR team has
exposed to their field of study to Laos for the team of 18 also created and designed
for future careers but also students. websites and website content
learned different cultural and MSR is set to sign for organisations such as the
regional perspectives. a Memorandum of National Science Committee
As future professionals in Understanding with the (NSC), Lao Union of Science
their respective fields, they National Science Committee and Engineering Associations,
could gain a more global (NSC) and the University of Lao Organic Product
perspective as they increased Health Sciences for future Promotion Association, and
insights into aspects of their missions. VYDA.
professions that they might “Next year we will be able They also provided
not be exposed to in their to set up intensive missions and support and advice for the
home countries. hopefully we will contribute Le Rénovateur magazine
She said they also felt a more to the development of website.
responsibility to help out. Laos.” As for their impression
“Not only are they going In the future, MSR plans to of the host country, Elnaz
to be succeeding in their own bring seasoned professionals expressed her view with
future career field, but also from North America and enthusiasm.
they are being taught to learn Europe that can come and join “It is my first time in Asia.
in another way, bringing a in the same vision of sharing Laos is a beautiful country
more global aspect, and not knowledge and expertise. and has a beautiful culture,”
just to their studies. “Apart from sharing she said.
“Some students are knowledge, this year we “People are gentle and
undertaking medical donated medical dictionaries compassionate. I will miss
observation at Setthathirath and books to Setthathirath Laos so much when I go back
Hospital this year. Hospital and to the University home.
“They are not medical of Health Sciences. “In my one-month stay in
students yet, they are preparing In the coming years, they Vientiane, I try to associate
to enter. It is very useful for plan to bring more medical the most I can with Lao people
them before they make a final equipment to donate to and the culture.”
decision whether to enter into hospitals in the country. It seems the culture has
this career in the future,” she They will have further rubbed off on her.
said. opportunities to learn more “I wear a Lao skirt (sinh).
She said students take from doctors. I love this country for many
notes of what they learn from “We try to provide help in reasons, it is absolutely
observations at the hospital. many ways. Next year we are beautiful.”
Vientiane Times Saturday July 25, 2009 9
Poverty eradication

Mother tongue absent in thousands of classrooms

Haider Rizvi and indigenous children lack of resources that is keeping states the world over many language of the classroom,” community.
have been systematically so many children out of school,” times in the last decade,” said Clair Thomas, one of the In Guatemala, for
UNITED NATIONS, (IPS) - excluded, discriminated stressed MRG’s executive said Lattimer. “But as this study’s authors. “But currently example, only four percent of
Millions of children across the against, or are too poor to director Mark Lattimer. “Tens book clearly shows, a quality many children around the “extremely poor” indigenous
world fail to receive a basic afford an education. of millions of children are education is not reaching the world are taught at school in girls attend school by the age
education not only because It shows that in systematically excluded from most vulnerable communities: a language that they do not of 16. Worldwide, more than
they are born into poverty, developing countries with the school or receive only a second- minorities and indigenous understand, either well or at half of out-of-school girls
but because local authorities largest number of children rate education because of ethnic peoples.” all.” have never been to school
do not allow them to read and out of school, such as or religious discrimination.” Providing an adequate Thomas cited the UN and might never go to school
write in their native language Bangladesh, Ethiopia, India, Lattimer thinks it will education for minority and Convention on the Rights without additional incentives.
at school. Kenya, Nigeria and Pakistan, be impossible for the world indigenous children “is not a of the Child to support the The report also highlights
According to a study minority and indigenous community to achieve the choice, but a legal obligation argument that children must the issue of gender disparity
released Thursday by a populations enjoy far less Millennium Development on the part of states”, he added. be educated in the language in in literacy. Its findings show
London-based rights advocacy access to schooling than Goals (MDGs) on education Lattimer and his colleagues which they interact with their that, worldwide, more than
group, more than 100 million majority groups. in the next six years if policies believe that the failure to mothers, fathers, brothers, half of out-of-school girls
children in the world are out of In Pakistan, for example, are not properly targeted to spend adequate resources on sisters, grandmothers and have never been to school
school, and most - estimated children are not allowed to the needs of minorities and education for all is holding grandfathers at home. and might never go to school.
between 50 and 70 percent – read and write in Punjabi, indigenous peoples. back economic growth and The convention says that The report’s authors also
are minorities or indigenous although it happens to be Set by the world community sowing the seeds for inter- states have an obligation point to illiteracy as a major
peoples. the language of the majority in 2001, the MDGs include ethnic and inter-religious to preserve and protect the cause of armed conflicts in
In “The State of the of that country’s population. substantive cuts in poverty, conflict. child’s cultural identity, as an the world.
World’s Minorities and School-going children are disease, illiteracy and In a foreword to the report, essential element for his or her The MRG study shows
Indigenous Peoples 2009”, often beaten with sticks by environmental degradation by a UN expert on minority issues, development. The preamble that in African countries
prepared in collaboration teachers if they fail to score 2015. The goal with regard to Gay McDougall, agrees. of the convention also such as Burundi, Rwanda
with the UN’s children well on tests given in English illiteracy requires “universal “When I ask people who recognises the importance of and Sudan, exclusion from
agency UNICEF, Minority or Urdu. primary education”. belong to disadvantaged diverse traditions and cultural school and the lack of
Rights Group International “Authorities need to “Education for all is a goal minorities to tell me their values for the “harmonious educational opportunities
(MRG) details how minority recognise that it is not just that has been reaffirmed by greatest problem, the answer development” of the child. for young people have been
is always the same. They are In Thomas’s view, critical factors in fuelling
concerned their children are policymakers often mistakenly armed conflict.
JOB Announcement not getting a quality education.
Worldwide, minority children
believe that education in a
home language will mean
John Henriksen, a UN
expert on human rights law,
ÍçÖéÅèÈ ãÍóÀãËóÀ Öà×ÄáÀèÈ suffer disproportionately from that children will never really acknowledges that there are
BACTEC Lao Co., Limited unequal access to quality master a national or majority “significant inequalities in
BACTEC is a leading Explosive Ordnance Survey, Clearance & Disposal (EOD) Company which education,” she wrote. language. education” for indigenous
has operated in 40 countries worldwide A number of recent “In fact the opposite is true,” communities. He suggests that
Vacancy Announcement: Administrative Assistant Position in Vientiane Office
studies show that half of she said. “What we are really in order to meet the MDGs,
the world’s children who talking about is multilingual governments open more
Duties and Responsibilities: do not attend school come education, whereby children schools in areas belonging
• Lao National from communities where the start speaking the language to indigenous communities
• Solid knowledge of English (Speaking, reading, writing) and ability to translate documents
from Lao to English and English to Lao. language of schooling is not they speak at home, and where their children are taught
• One year experience working in a similar position. the one they use at home. other languages are gradually in their mother tongue.
• Typing speed of 40 wpm in English Computer knowledgeable in MS Office including Word, According to the Institute introduced over time.” “Deprivation of access
Excel, Access, PowerPoint and email. Computer experience with database.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills. for Development Studies in The study cites numerous to quality education is a
• BA in Administration Britain, more than one billion cases which demonstrate major factor contributing to
• Knowledge of Visa processing and Work permits for foreigners. people speak local languages a world of exclusion and the social marginalisation,
• Previous experience working with on international Company (preferred)
Applicants should submit a letter of interest and curriculum vitae (English version) to: which are not used in formal discrimination against poverty and dispossession of
Mrs. Carolyn Mckeown education. This includes an minorities and indigenous indigenous peoples,” he said.
Unit 8, Phonsavanh Neua Village. Sisattanak District Vientiane Lao PDR estimated 221 million school- peoples. The most “The content and objective of
P.O Box: 6089 or Email: [email protected]
for more information Office phone: (856-21) 264923-4 aged children. discriminated against of all education in some instances
“It seems obvious to say tend to be poor girls, living contributes to the eradication
that children learn better when in poor families in rural areas of their cultures, languages
they understand and speak the who belong to a minority and ways of life.”

R & D Manager, Vacancy

Oji Lao Plantation Forest Co., Ltd (LPFL) is expanding its operations, establishing hardwood tree
plantations in Bolikhamsai and Khammouane provinces.

LPFL is looking for interested candidates for the position of R & D Manager to joint our hard working
team, based in Site Office- Khammouane Province.

Tasks will include:

 Managing R & D Program, including establishment and monitoring of various trials.
 Organize trial measurement, trial design and supervise staff
 Contact with another research organizations, in Laos & abroad.
 Prepare for laboratory equipments
 Daily maintenance of staff assessment for R &D staffs.

Skills/Knowledge required:
 Doctor, Master or Bachelor Degree in Agriculture and Forestry
 Experience of working Research job or research organization at least one year.
 Ability to use Excel, word, GIS,GPS and Access databases desirable
 Experience of map making using Mapinfo (Arcview) software.
 Fluent in both oral and written English or Japanese is advantage.

Suitably qualified female applicants are encouraged to apply.

A competitive salary will be paid, commiserate with experience. Accommodation and other benefits
will be provided on site in Khammuan.

If you interested in working with us, please submit a current CV and covering letter attached recent
photo to address below:
Niphavanh KEOVILAY
Oji Lao Plantation Forest Co., Ltd (LPFL)
Ban Saphanthong Kang, Sisattanak, P.O. Box 8832, Vientiane Lao PDR
Tel. 021-353511-3, Fax 452260
Remark: Closing date is 07th Aug 2009 and we regret that only short listed candidates will be notified.
Please Note: Any CVs and related documents will not be returned
10 Saturday July 25, 2009 Vientiane Times

Health & Education

Law on Local Administration

of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic

Breathing dirty air may

PENAL LAW
Chapter 4
Exemption from Charge and Punishment

lower kids’ IQ
Article 18. (New) Circumstances that Lead to
Exemption from Penal Liability
Circumstances that lead to exemption from penal liability are as
follows:
1. Force and threat;
2. Legitimate defence;
(CHINA DAILY) -- Children in automobile and truck 3. State of necessity;
living in neighbourhoods with exhaust, particularly by 4. Performance of professional duty;
heavy traffic pollution have diesel vehicles. 5. Implementation of order;
lower IQs and score worse The more heavily exposed 6. Playing of sports;
on other tests of intelligence children were to black carbon, 7. Offences against which complaints must be lodged by the
damaged parties;
and memory than children the lower were their scores on 8. Expiration of the term of prosecution.
who breathe cleaner air, a new several intelligence tests.
study shows. When the researchers Article 19. Force and Threat
The effect of pollution on adjusted for the effects of Any individual committing an offence under force or threat in
intelligence was similar to parents’ education, language circumstances where such force or threat could not have been
that seen in children whose spoken at home, birth weight, avoided shall not be charged or punished.
mothers smoked 10 cigarettes and exposure to tobacco In the event that such offence is a crime, [the] force or threat shall
a day while pregnant, or in smoke, the association only constitute extenuating circumstances regarding punishment.
kids who have been exposed remained.
to lead, Dr Shakira Franco For example, heavy Article 20. Legitimate Defence
Suglia of the Harvard School exposure to black carbon was Acts of “legitimate defence” refers to acts taken by an individual
to safeguard the interests of the State or society, [or to safeguard]
of Public Health in Boston, linked to a 3.4-point drop his own or another individual’s life, health, [or] legitimate rights
the study’s lead author, told in IQ, on average. Heavily and interests against acts of aggression dangerous for the society;
Reuters Health. exposed children also scored but such acts of aggression must be truly existing and dangerous,
While the effect of lower on tests of vocabulary, and the acts of legitimate defence must be contemporaneous with
pollution on cardiovascular memory and learning. and proportionate to the acts of aggression.
and respiratory health has “It’s within the range for Acts of legitimate defence are not considered offences.
been studied extensively, less in utero tobacco exposure and
is known about how breathing lead exposure,” Suglia said in Article 21. State of Necessity
dirty air might affect the brain, an interview. [An act taken in a] “state of necessity” refers to an individual’s act
Suglia and her team wrote She pointed out that which is necessary to avoid threats against the interests of the State
or society, [or against] his own or another individual’s life, health,
in the American Journal of exposure to traffic pollution [or] legitimate rights and interests, where such threats cannot be
Epidemiology. has been associated with a avoided by other methods and are not created by such individual,
To investigate, she and number of other harmful and where the damage caused by such act is less than the damage
her colleagues looked at 202 effects and that, short of that would have resulted from the threat.
Boston children 8 to 11 years moving away from heavy Acts taken in a state of necessity are not considered offences.
old who were participating in traffic areas, there’s not much
a study of maternal smoking. people can do to limit it. A woman wears a mask to protect herself from the A(H1N1) virus. Article 22. (New) Performance of Professional
The researchers related She and her colleagues Duty The “performance of a professional duty” shall be regarded
several measures of cognitive suggest that traffic pollution research on the effects of as a circumstance that leads to exemption from penal liability if it
whether traffic exposure might
function to the children’s may exert harmful effects pollution on the development meets the following criteria:
cause or accelerate brain 1. The act shall be within the scope of the rights and duties [of
estimated exposure to black by causing inflammation of intelligence in children degeneration in conditions the actor];
carbon, a component of the and oxidative damage to the and on cognitive decline for such as Alzheimer’s disease 2. The act shall be in conformity with professionalism and
particulate matter emitted brain. They call for further people of all ages, including and Parkinson’s disease. with laws and regulations.

Article 23. (New) Implementation of Order

The “implementation of an order” shall be regarded as a
circumstance that leads to exemption from penal liability if it
meets the following criteria:
1. [The actor] shall have received an order from a person who
has the right and duty to issue the order;
2. The order shall be issued in conformity with laws and
regulations;
3. The person implementing the order shall have the right and
duty to implement such order;
4. The person implementing the order shall implement the
Bounfaeng P order within the scope of the order and in conformity with
haymanivon
g laws and regulations.

Article 24. (New) Playing of Sports

The “playing of sports” shall be regarded as a circumstance that
Ms Vilaylack Philavanh, age 14 leads to exemption from penal liability if the playing of sports is
conducted within the rules of the sport.
What school do you go to?
Article 25. Offences Against which Complaints Must be
I’m in fourth year at Chansavang Secondary School in Sikhottabong district. Lodged by the Damaged Parties
No criminal proceedings may be brought [in respect of] offences
What is your favourite subject? that are not dangerous for society and [in respect of which] the
English is my favourite focus because it’s one of my favourite subjects and I damaged party does not lodge any complaint, including the
enjoy conversing with my classmates. I think if I became good at English it following matters: physical violence between close relatives
would be helpful for me to apply to many jobs making it easier for me than without serious injury or physical disability; libel, slander, insult,
others who don’t have this skill. and outrage to the body or the reputation of the dead; infraction
of property rights of close relatives; and violation of domicile and
privacy.
What is your least favourite subject? The withdrawal of a complaint lodged by the damaged party shall
I don’t like mathematics because it’s very difficult to learn and not easy to understand the extremely complicated terminate such criminal proceedings.
formulas. Article 26. Effectiveness of Prosecution
Prosecutions shall not be considered effective unless filed within:
Where would you like to continue your studies after finishing high school? • One year, in the case of minor offences;
After finishing my high school studies, I would enter the Comcenter College. But I have not decided yet what I’m going • Seven years, in the case of major offences;
• Fifteen years, in the case of crimes.
to study there. The [filing period for] effectiveness of a prosecution starts from
the day the offence is committed. In the event a second offence
What do you like to do out of school? is committed while legal proceedings are pending in respect
In my free time, I like reading general magazines, listening to music and playing volleyball. of an earlier offence, the [filing period for] effectiveness of the
[first] prosecution shall [re-start] from the day the later offence
If you could visit any place in the world where would it be? is committed. In the event of evasion of court proceedings, [the
I’d like to go to Japan because it’s the country that many people want to go to and it’s one of the destinations where I’ve filing period for] effectiveness shall start from the day the offender
presents himself or is arrested.
never been. The Japanese language is also interesting to learn.
Continued in next Saturday’s issue
Vientiane Times Saturday July 25, 2009 11

Travel

Inside the bat cave

Richard Saunders

THE China Post (ANN) --

Paying a visit to the wonderful
Sanmin Bat Cave, which was
once one of the best short
adventures of northern Taiwan,
is a pretty straightforward
affair these days, since the
local authorities, seeking to
open this imposing natural
curiosity to everyone, changed
the route of the access trail to
the cavern, bypassing a long
wade up the slippery stream
bed, and the steep descent and
ascent (with fixed ropes) of
several rock faces.
Today the hardest part of
the 15 minute walk from the
parking area to the cave is
a short but stiff climb along
the brick-surfaced lane at the
beginning. At the top of this
hill, next to a multicoloured
metal observation tower
(which gives a good view
back down the valley towards
Sanmin Village), steps lead
quickly and gently down to
the stream edge, and a wide,
level, surfaced path leads up
the gorge until, after a slight Behind the large and rather plain temple buildings, Guanyin Cave remains atmospheric and mysterious.
rise, the great black hole of
Taiwan’s biggest cave mouth
suddenly looms in front. through an unusual natural a rather steep sidetrail to the Presently, the path starts to big temple built in front of buildings straddle a deep,
Some of the wildness hole cut in the rock. left leads to the beautiful climb, makes its way around Guanyin Cave is now just narrow rocky cleft threaded
of this amazing spot has After heavy rain, it’s quite little glen at the head of the a large landslide, and reaches above, and after a short but by a stream tumbling over
undoubtedly gone since a fine sight, and the pool at waterfall, although take great a small open area with a stiff climb up steps, the path is cascades on its way down
getting there became rather the base of the fall is great for care, as the rocky stream bed bench. Look over the guard blocked by an iron gate. Open the waterfall passed earlier.
easier, and putting picnic swimming, which is exactly above the brink is slippery! rail behind, and a small but it and emerge into the large The temple has big plans
tables in the cave definitely what a local family was doing Keep to the main path and beautiful waterfall spreads car park in front of Guanyin for expansion, including, (a
doesn’t improve the scene, but when we last visited the cave. it continues high above the over a smooth rock face Cave Temple. board proudly states) a 120
it’s still a mightily impressive Now follow the trail back stream through an area of beside the path, falling into This large and rather foot-high statue of Guanyin
place, and well worth a visit. out of the gorge, and turn left beautiful, unspoilt jungle, and a deep, circular plunge pool plain looking temple (lots of intended to crown the highest
Especially as it forms the focal at the observation tower, along finally descends to the level of of clear blue water far below concrete and iron in evidence) part of the complex. All very
point of a short and easy but the brick-paved lane once the stream, passing through the path. It would be a first is quite a shock after the impressive, but, retracing
very beautiful trail linking it more. This intrusively man- some wonderfully idyllic rate swimming hole, only it’s beauty of the forest, but the the route back to Sanmin
to another impressive natural made ‘improvement’ isn’t a scenery of rock, water and pretty well inaccessible at the cave itself is atmospheric, and the car, the more lasting
cavern: Guanyin Cave. promising start to the hike, forest. bottom of the near vertical despite the multicoloured impression will probably be
Sanmin Bat Cave lies 3km but in just a few minutes, the Our last visit was perfectly bank, unless a long length of dragon fountain and other made by the beautiful jungle
from the village of the same surfaced lane ends, becoming timed: a fine sunny day stout rope is handy. trimmings, and the temple’s landscape and the mysterious,
name, near the beginning a narrow but clear dirt trail following heavy rain the The sounds of Buddhist situation is unique: look over great stone cave mouth that
of the North Cross-island surfaced in black plastic mesh, night before, and the damp air chanting may well be heard the wall to the left of the grace this little corner of
Highway. A 3km-long road which ensures the trail will was heavy with the glorious, on the air by this point. The temple to discover that the Taoyuan County.
from the village leads to a be passable even after heavy almost overpowering scent
parking area, from where it’s rain, yet doesn’t interfere with given off by the small, orange
an easy 15-20 minute stroll
to the cave, beside which an
the beauty of the lush, jungle
surroundings too much.
flowers of a species of palm
tree that grows in the forest Champa Mai & Savanphatthana
attractive waterfall cascades In just a couple of minutes, here.
Weekly newspapers
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12 Saturday July 25, 2009 Vientiane Times

Entertainment

International rock act hits

Phoonsab Thevongsa
Lao music scene
N
othing can stop the
raising of popularity
of international
rock band Uluvus
(pronounced ‘you love us’),
who sing in the Lao language,
after the band released its debut
album earlier this month.
Rock music lovers
throughout the country
enjoy the bands energetic
Roger Rock, Databass, Chris Crash and Tom O’ Hawk.
performances and light-
hearted songs. song Sexy Lai (Very Sexy).
The album was launched at Two of our heroes were on
Romeo nightclub in Vientiane, stage playing with us! Sam
where a full house of fans was also gave a great performance
in attendance despite heavy before we played,” Chris
rains outside. says.
The band’s lead singer, The album is titled Seu
Chris Crash said, “It was Soi Dair, meaning ‘buy to
an amazing moment for the help me please’, and consists
band. We were so proud to of ten tracks produced by
present our album and say Sam Intharaphithak, one of
thanks to everyone who made Laos’ most talented artists and
it possible – the people at Phu producers. The album, which
Bia Mining, Tigo, Indee, Sam is sponsored by Tigo and
and our management team.” released by Indee Records,
“We were very excited to encompasses rock, pop,
have Leum, keyboard player electro, dance, hip hop and
from the Lao rock band Cells, even a heartfelt ballad. One
join us for our new single Hak song features guest vocalist
Gan Leo (Already in Love) Kave.
and to have Kave, former Invaluable support for the
Uluvus present gifts to fans. Uluvus in full swing.
rapper from the Lao hip hop album was also provided by
band LOG, join us for the the people at Phu Bia Mine

following a recent concert but when we were playing at “Our future plans usually
there. Lao concerts with Lao bands involving going to a han
The band’s guitarist, it just didn’t feel right as we ping hou mou (grilled pig ear
Roger Rock said, “We all met wanted to be a part of the restaurant). But apart from
at a Boun Bang Fai (rocket music scene that we love,” that, we are hoping to play
festival) a few years ago. We says drummer Tom O’ Hawk. as many concerts as possible
were the only falang men The music video for Hak with our favourite Lao artists
there who were dressed up as Gan Leo can be watched at the including A’ Pacts, Aluna and
Subscription Rates 2008-9 women! We looked at each band’s website, www.uluvus. L Zone,” bass player, Databass
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Vientiane Times Saturday July 25, 2009 13
Art &Culture

Botanical garden on Hulu Island like Eden

BEIJING, (Xinhuanet) --
Menglun is a tiny township
surrounded by Dai villages,
rubber tree plantations and
tropical forests more than 600
km from Kunming, capital of
Yunnan province. Few people
know there is a dynamic expat
community on an island ringed
on three sides by a river near
the town.
It consists of nearly 20
foreign research fellows,
post-doctoral researchers and
international students from
Xishuangbanna Tropical
Botanical Garden (XTBG),
and their families.
At the nation’s largest
botanical garden - located
on Hulu Island - and leading Colombian
research institute on tropical Alegandra The Xishuangbanna botanical garden draws academics and
plants under the Chinese Warren teaches tourists alike.
Academy of Sciences, they the children of
pursue their research and even expat researcher
families English, the garden’s shuttle bus runs 6-year-old girl of a professor
run a tiny international school mathematics, art between Kunming and Menglun from the Netherlands. “Two
for their children. and crafts.(Photo once a week. of my Egyptian students left
Dr Chuck Cannon is the Source: China “So I just tell them (her with their parents not long
leader of XTBG’s ecological Daily/Chen Liang) colleagues in Kunming) what ago,” says the teacher.
evolution research team. I need and they will purchase From Monday to Friday,
A graduate from Harvard how things work. I might be “There is no environment new things”. “Here it is very it,” she says. Warren teaches English,
College, granted tenure by able to influence people to do for them to learn Chinese in the free as to what I do with the The real issue for the Spanish, mathematics,
Texas Tech University and research in Southeast Asia and United States,” she says. “So (research) money,” he says. family is their daughters’ science, physical education,
with a Duke University PhD, increase the collaboration and I say, ‘OK, I’m a molecular “So I can invest a lot in data education. art and crafts from 8:30 am till
the American biologist, aged coordination between the two biologist. So it doesn’t matter instead of equipment.” “It was hard at first, we noon. Some students and staff
43, arrived at the garden two places (China and Southeast where I am - DNA is DNA.’” And the couple found no had to home school them,” teach the children Chinese in
years ago. Asia).” At the botanical garden, real difficulties adapting to the Cannon says. “I got up at the afternoon.
He had worked in Indonesia He says he met Dr Chen the couple found research new environment. about 4 o’clock, went to work, Because of the children’s
and Malaysia for many Jin, director of the botanical opportunities everywhere. “Our Internet connection came back and taught them different ages, she gives them
years and met his Chinese- garden, at the meeting, Cannon has three new projects at the garden is good and for a couple of hours in the different assignments.
Malaysian wife during this and “built up a very good running presently. “In the US, free,” Cannon says. “I had morning. Then she’d take “The girls are all good
time. He was looking for a relationship with him right it’s very competitive to get several Skype meetings this over.” friends,” she says. “They play
job back in Asia when he away”. He is knowledgeable research money. But there year, talking with people in “We had some helpers, together even after school.”
saw XTBG’s advertisement and confident, his heart is in are just so many projects Germany, Indonesia and the the staff and our graduate She says that her family is
for a post at an international the right place and he has a here. People invite you to get United States.” students,” Kua says. “They enjoying its stay at Menglun.
conference held in Kunming vision for what he really wants involved in their projects,” As the 900-hectare garden came to teach them Chinese in “China is a lot better than
in 2006. to do. He is certainly a reason he says. “Many of them are has a collection of over 12,000 the afternoon, mainly speaking I expected before the trip.
“I think China is growing behind my decision.” conservation-oriented and species of plants, the biologist Chinese to them.” The culture is not shocking
up very rapidly and has a Family support is another. related to the whole Mekong has easy access to many of his In the beginning, Cannon at all,” Warren says. “The
big influence on the rest of His wife, Kua Chai-shian, region.” research materials. says, it was simple to teach garden is so beautiful, people
Southeast Asia,” Cannon who speaks fluent Mandarin, Another positive thing is “If we want to get a species, them. “But as they get older, here are super nice, and all
says. “It’s a good idea to wants their two daughters, 8 that the institute supports its we just walk over the hill. It’s it is becoming more of a the foreigners are like a big
work here and understand and 5, to learn Chinese. scientists to “take risks and try very nice to be close to a lot of problem.” family.”
materials,” he says. They tried to send their Kua Chai-shian says there
For Kua, 39, cooking at older daughter to a local are nearly 20 expats from
home is easy. “A good thing primary school, but she Columbia, France, Indonesia,
about Xishuangbanna is was refused. The couple Malaysia, the Netherlands,
there are a lot of tropical and soon got more help as other Thailand, Britain and the
VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT temperate fruits. In this season, expat families joined the United States.
a lot of wild mushrooms can community. “We have a volleyball team
WATER AND SANITATION ENGINEER / Ref: WSE 009/07 be found in the local market.” In January, Colombian and organise potluck dinners
To meet their daughters’ Alegandra Warren went to from time to time,” she says.
In the course of its Community Health program, the French Red Cross is recruiting Water and Sanitation
Engineers who will be based in district of intervention in Sayaboury province. demands for such Western XTBG with her American “In the past two years, we have
foods as cheese and cereal, husband who was doing post- had two successful Christmas
Objective of the Position which are difficult to find doctoral research, bringing parties, which were open to all
The Water and Sanitation Engineer has to ensure the correct implementation of the water and sanitation even in Kunming, they have a along their two daughters. of the students and staff.”
activities carried on by the French Red Cross in partnership with the Lao Red Cross and the Nam Saat
in one district, to answer to the needs expressed by the targeted communities; maximizing the cost solution: “Every time when we Besides taking care of She doesn’t miss her
efficiency and quality construction output. came back from a trip abroad, her daughters, 10 and 1.5 family and neighborhood
we pack an extra suitcase with years old, the 28-year-old back home, Warren says. “The
Specific Objectives Western food,” Kua says. mother felt she could teach only thing we miss is Western
►Identify the needs in terms of water supply and sanitation in remote rural villages & define appropriate A real inconvenience for more children and founded a food a little bit, pizza and
technical solutions her is to prepare supplies for the mini-school at the garden’s hamburger, that kind of stuff,”
►Ensure appropriation of the program and facilities by the targeted communities team’s laboratory, as most of the
►Constructions’ supervision and Management of his team
office building this April. she says. “The girls just miss
►Coordination and Reporting supplies can only be purchased Her students also include Western-style toilets and snow
from Kunming. Fortunately Cannon’s two daughters and the in Colorado a lot.”
Qualifications and skills requirements
• A relevant diploma in Engineering, a specific qualification in water and sanitation will be valued
• At least 2 years of working experience in Water and Sanitation Engineering
• Knowledge and experience regarding :
o Water supply systems: Gravity fed system design and construction, well digging, borehole
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For more information please contact Vientiane Times office, or send an email to: info@
Please address your application (CV, covering letter and copies of diploma, certificates…) until the 5th of vientianetimes.org.la. Or
August 2009 under the reference « Watsan Engineer Recruitment – WS 009/07 » to Eric CRASTES,
FRC Watsan Coordinator. [email protected]
Applications must be brought directly to the French Red Cross office – Setthathirath Road – Impasse
Xiengnhune – Vientiane. Tel: (856-21) 216364, 252631, 217593,
Otherwise, national applications can be send by fax [021 24 10 42] or e-mail [[email protected]]
Only short-listed candidates will be contacted within the 20 days after the closing date Fax: (856-21) 216365, 252631
14 Classifieds Saturday July 25, 2009 Vientiane Times

Vientiane Times word puzzle No.88 USEFUL CONTACT NUMBERS

Foreign Exchange AIRLINE OFFICES RESTAURANTS
Find as many words as possible (20+) to win a coupon at Khop Chai Deu Lao Airlines Lao
Head office Tamnak Lao
02 PANGKHAM STREET, P.O BOX 6441 Ban Phonexay, Thatluang Rd. Tel: 413 562
TEL : ( 856- 21 ) 212057 Kualao
FAX : ( 856 21 ) 212065 141 Samsenthai Road
www.laoairlines.com
Tel: 215 777
Wattay Airport Office
Tel : ( 856-21 ) 512028 ( International Airport ) Khop Chai Deu
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Tel : ( 856 - 71) 212173 Next to the National Culture Hall
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Email : [email protected] Lanexang Cruise
Pakxe Airport office (Dine on a riverboat) Tel: 314 585
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Branch office in Laos Ban Simeuang, Xayaboury district. Tel:(074)211171
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Tel: 900241- 242-243,Mob: 5515870, 5503979 Francois Ngin Rd
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Thatdam, Bartholonie St. Tel: 212 582
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Unit 6 Piavat Village, Sisatanak District, Vientiane Tel:
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Would you like to rent or buy property? Settha Palace
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Please note that What’s On has a new email

address- [email protected]. Please send all
Please note that What’s On has a new listings to this address, if possible at least one week
email address- [email protected]. before the event, and remember to list all details such
as time, date, location and contact phone number
Please send all listings to this address, if or call 020 2206460
possible at least one week before the event,
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and remember to list all details such as time,
* Police: 191 * Ambulance: 195
date, location and contact phone number
* Fire:190 * Water: 212514
or call 020 2206460 * Electricity: 212191
Vientiane Times Saturday July 25, 2009 Sport 15

Contador moves closer to second Tour win

LE GRAND-BORNAND, five men with a victory in the times that it was not necessary
France (AP) — Alberto three Grand Tours - France, to attack to win the Tour,”
Contador used Wednesday’s Italy, Spain - made a bold Bruyneel said after the stage.
third and final Alpine stage move when he tried to drop “I said it because we still have
of the Tour de France to the Schlecks on the Col de some hard days to come. It was
make a further step toward a la Colombiere, the last climb his choice, it didn’t work.”
second victory in the cycling’s of the day. Contador’s attack Astana sports director
showcase event, yet it was not did not harm the brothers but Alain Gallopin, the man who
enough to bring cheers within it proved fatal to his Astana groomed Contador all season,
the Astana team. teammate Andreas Kloeden of was even harsher.
The 26-year-old Spaniard, Germany, who lays 5th overall “He made a mistake. He
following another impressive 4:44 back. made Andreas lose second
run through the mountains, Armstrong was quick place,” the Frenchman told
handed one more blow to his to criticise the move on his French radio Europe 1 on
rivals when he tightened his Twitter feed. Wednesday evening.
grip on the yellow jersey by “Getting lots of questions While most of the teams
taking second place in the 17th why (Alberto Contador) would find no problem in
stage behind Frank Schleck of attacked and dropped Kloeden. having Contador in their
Luxembourg. I still haven’t figured it out ranks, Armstrong’s presence
Four days before the race either. Oh well,” Armstrong at Astana seems to weaken the
ends on the Champs-Elysees, wrote. Spaniard’s position.
Contador leads his closest Tensions within the Astana “We did not tell him to
challenger, Frank Schleck’s team have been fierce since attack, he had won the Tour,”
younger brother Andy, by 2 Armstrong announced his said Gallopin. “He is a young
minutes, 26 seconds. comeback last year and joined rider, he still has to learn.” The pack with Alberto Contador of Spain, wearing the overall leader’s yellow jersey, speeds down Saisies
pass during the 17th stage of the Tour de France. --AP
Contador’s Astana the squad managed by Johan Armstrong and Bruyneel
teammate Lance Armstrong, Bruyneel, the man behind are expected to launch their
still aiming at a podium finish, his seven victories on the new team together next year, Contador rivalry. 3:25 off the pace. Bruyneel was also
dropped to fourth overall at Tour. The rivalry between the Contador has been linked to a As for this year, it seems Contador’s biggest confident Contador would
the end of the 169-kilometre cancer survivor and cycling’s move to Spanish outfit Caisse Contador has won his match satisfaction of the day was to retain his overall lead.
stage between Bourg-Saint- new star Contador - who has d’Epargne. Both riders are against Armstrong and all see time trial expert Bradley “Tomorrow, the time
Maurice and Le Grand- been under contract at Astana forced to live together for the other Tour contenders. Wiggins of Britain had trial will be good for
Bornand. The 37-year-old since 2008 - reached a new next four days and are likely On the eve of Thursday’s eventually found his limits in Alberto because he is better
Texan, who is set to announce height during the Tour. to face each other in next 40.5-kilometre time trial in the mountains, dropping from than the Schlecks. Then,
his new team for next season Although Bruyneel said the year’s Tour. Annecy, Contador sits on a third to sixth overall, 4:53 the Ventoux (on Saturday)
on Thursday, could not sustain Spaniard has almost secured “For now, we want to win comfortable cushion. behind. and this is it. It looks good
the pace of the leading group this year’s Tour victory, the the Tour de France, we are on Second-placed Andy “Wiggins is my main rival as far as winning the Tour
in the grueling ascent to the Belgian was also quick to the right path, then we will Schleck is 2 minutes, 26 for the time trial and the gap is concerned. He is in great
Col de Romme. question Contador’s move. see,” said Bruyneel when seconds behind, with his elder is now comfortable,” the shape, he has never been in
Contador, only one of “Today I told him several asked about the Armstrong vs. brother Frank in third position Spaniard said. danger,” he said.

Weir trying to end long Sharapova: ‘I am a hundred percent”

Canadian drought NEWPORT BEACH, California (AP) —
Maria Sharapova declared her surgically
repaired right shoulder fully healed and that
OAKVILLE, Ontario (AP) — the 15th club in our bag with He was never better at she was ready to return to the court for the
Mike Weir is well aware that the crowd.” Glen Abbey than he was first time since a disappointing performance at
a Canadian hasn’t won the Weir is making his 19th Monday in his charity pro-am Wimbledon.
Canadian Open in 55 years, appearance in the national event, playing the back nine “I am a hundred percent,” Sharapova said
and that it has been 95 years championship, back at Jack in 9-under 28. He was 8 under
on the final six holes, making Wednesday before making an appearance for
since the tournament crowned Nicklaus-designed Glen the Newport Beach Breakers in their World
a Canadian-born champion. Abbey for the second straight two eagles and four birdies.
year and 25th time overall. “I wish I could do that in a Team Tennis match against Kansas City.
“It’s our national
championship, and all us The 2003 Masters tournament,” Weir said. “I mean, if I wasn’t at that point, I
Canadians, we want to put to champion, an eight-time Nick Taylor and Matt Hill, certainly wouldn’t be playing. That’s why
rest that it’s been so long since winner on the US PGA Tour, the Canadians who hold the I took my time and gave myself a chance to
one of us has won one,” Weir came close to breaking through top two spots in the world really go out there and to feel like I didn’t
said on Wednesday, a day in 2004 at Glen Abbey, losing amateur rankings, are paired have any excuses.”
before the start of the 100th to Vijay Singh in a playoff. together for the first two Sharapova played in three matches for the
edition. Last year, Weir tied for fifth, rounds. Breakers, winning all three.
Pat Fletcher, born five strokes behind winner The top-ranked Taylor,
from Manitoba, was the low She teamed with Julie Ditty to take
in England, was the last Chez Reavie. women’s doubles, 5-2; combined with Kaes
Canadian winner, taking the Weir missed the cut in amateur at the US Open and
his first nine starts in the reached the US Amateur Van’t Hof to capture mixed doubles, 5-2; and
1954 event in Vancouver,
British Columbia. Carl Keffer tournament - eight at Glen Public Links final last week. defeated Meghann Shaughnessy 5-4 (1) in
is the only Canadian-born Abbey and one at Royal Hill, from Weir’s hometown women’s singles.
champion, winning in 1909 Montreal and also dropped of Bright’s Grove, won the The former No. 1 player in the world has
and 1914. Albert Murray, also out early in 2005 and 2006. US college individual title in appeared in four tournaments since undergoing
born in England, won in 1908 “Just the experience of May. surgery in October to repair her right rotator
and 1913. playing the course, I think “It’s cool to be in a PGA cuff. She’s been eliminated each time to an Maria Sharapova, of Russia, speaks during a news
“The odds are pretty helped me adjust. And I think Tour event, but being back opponent outside the top ten. conference, in Indian Wells, Calif. Maria Sharapova
much staked against us,” said my game’s just evolved over home in Canada with a bunch declared, on July 22. --AP
of people working and pulling Last month, she was upset in the second
Stephen Ames, a naturalised the years,” the 39-year-old round of Wimbledon by Gisela Dulko. A
from Ontario said. “I think a for you, that’s going to be already has won three Grand Slam titles .
Canadian from Trinidad and champion at the All England Club at age 17,
Tobago. “Fifteen playing number of the rounds and cuts fun,” Taylor said. “At 22, you consider you’ve been playing
this week in a field of 156. I missed here I was playing Anthony Kim is back at Sharapova is now ranked 61st. on the Pro Tour that many years, (a comeback’s)
It makes things difficult to on the Canadian Tour, and I Glen Abbey after tying for She will compete in the Bank of West definitely not a surprise,” she said. “It is a little
some extent, but at the same wasn’t a PGA Tour-caliber eighth last year. He closed Tournament in California starting Monday and surprising to see so many girls kind of coming
time, we have what we call player then.” with a 75 in a final-round then test her shoulder by playing the following out of the woodwork, and they’re so many
pairing with Reavie after week in the Los Angeles Women’s Tennis years younger than you. You’re like, ‘Where
opening with rounds of 65, 69 Championship. did the time go?’
Yoga Instructor(s) Needed!! and 64.
“I like the golf course,”
After that, it’s the US Open, which begins
Aug. 31.
“But I enjoy every single year of it. As I
get older, I become a much wiser person on the
Kim said. “It sets up well for
Sharapova said has never wavered in court. I learn a lot in life. A learn a lot from my
Space available near the fountain me and it really is a driver’s
believing she would make a full comeback.
golf course, and I feel like that profession, from what I do. I’m definitely not
in an established business is a strong suit in my game. If “By no means was it easy. Definitely I had sad that the years are going by.”
I can manage to keep the ball ups and downs,” she said. “I had days where I Sharapova said keeping the shoulder strong
Please call Tel. 5616831 to: in play, it should be a good had to push myself more than I’ve ever had to will now have to be part of her life.
• See the space week.” mentally than physically. “It’s not something you just stop when
Kim’s agent, Chris “It all pays off. Obviously just getting to it feels good,” she said. “You have to keep
• Discuss profit-sharing terms Armstrong, is Canadian, and be able to play tennis again is an achievement working on it. You have to keep getting it
• Discuss schedules the 24-year-old American in itself. Now it’s about preparing myself, stronger.
• Discuss all other issues has tournament title sponsor
Royal Bank of Canada’s logo forgetting about what I went through, getting “For the rest of my career I’ll be doing
on his bag. back into the form where I was and even shoulder exercises. It won’t be as fun as I want
Instructors teaching in Lao, English and other “Carrying the RBC bag, better.” it to be. It’s all a routine. But everyone has to
languages welcome! I’ll have a couple more fans Most 22 year olds aren’t in the comeback do it. Everyone has injuries. It’s part of the
following me,” Kim said. business, but she started he career at 14 and game.”
 SEA Games
Vientiane Times
16
Saturday July 25, 2009 Vientiane Times

136 days

Budo centre to be
ready for SEA Games
The LNSC will hold the
judo and karatedo events at
the centre during the SEA
Games in December.
Sangkhomsay The national judo and LNSC will also use the
Bubphanouvong aikido teams are currently centre to host future table
training at a national training tennis and sepak takraw
The Lao-Japan Budo camp in the lead-up to the events, as well as music
Centre in Anou village SEA Games later this year. concerts.
of Chanthabouly district, Construction of the The facility will be 32
Vientiane is currently 58 centre was divided into metres wide, 29 metres long
percent complete and will two phases. The first phase and 18 metres high. It will
be finished in October. went ahead under a Japanese consist of three floors with a
Director General of government grant of about seating capacity of 800.
the International Relations 37 billion kip (US$4.3 The judo event at the
Department of the Lao National million) last December. games will include eight
Sports Committee (LNSC), The second phase is weight divisions for men (55,
Mr Soulasith Oupravanh said currently underway with the 60, 66, 73, 81, 90, 100 and
the Lao judo, karatedo and support of a further grant from over 100kg) and women (45,
aikido teams would be able the Japanese government 48, 52, 57, 63, 70, 78 and over
to train at the centre after an of 19 billion kip (US$2.2 78kg).
opening ceremony is held in million). The karatedo event will
November. The centre is been built by consist of six weight divisions
National judo and karatedo Kanto Construction Company for men (55, 60, 65, 70, 75,
fighters will live and train at and Sanpo International 80kg) and four for women
the centre. Corporation from Japan. (48, 53, 60 and over 60kg). The Lao-Japan Budo Centre under construction.
After the games, the
LNSC will allow fighters club and students form Anou At the 24th SEA Games medal and the judo team two
from the Lao Judo and secondary school to train at in Thailand in 2007, the Lao gold, one silver and three
Karatedo Federations, Aikido the centre. karatedo team won a bronze bronze medals.

Generosity, Amity, Healthy Lifestyle