Cambodia News | Issue: 3 | June 2007

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California Khmer Kickboxing

June 2007

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The ancient art, thriving in California thanks to Oumry Ban and his team.

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Aaron Malawenski

Police riot at Los Angeles rally puts immigration top of the nation's agenda.

IMMIGRATION PAGE

Soft-shell turtle found in Cambodia A rare species of softshell turtle is found on the banks of Mekong River.

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TO AMERICA BECOMES THE "BURNING ISSUE" Miss Japan is Miss Universe 2007

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Riyo Mori, of Japan, was voted "Miss Universe" on May 28 in Mexico City.

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Preap Sovath: Entertainer and now businessman too Cambodia's own singing and movie superstar, branches out his career to celebrate like the locals!

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Royal Plowing Ceremony 2007 in Phnom Penh

Tony Blair to step down as Prime Minister in June

Cambodia's garment industry, a vital contributor to the national economy, faces challenges. As one of the few countries meeting the ethical standards demanded, how will Cambodia fare in the face of increasing difficulties?

The annual Royal Plowing Ceremony in Phnom Penh is avidly watched by farmers, hoping to see their futures foretold.

With so many people's livelihoods tied to the land, everyone waits to see what the ceremony will predict.

After 10 years as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Tony Blair announced on May 10 it is time for a change, both for Britain and for himself. From June 27 Britain will have a new leader - and maybe a new style.

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photo: getty images

Cambodia's garment industry under threat?

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Credits Cambodia News & World Report is published by Meun Sothy.

Editor: Ward Tipton Editor-in-Chief: Pagnawath Khun

Reporters & Correspondents: Hem Chanthoeun [Banteay Meanchey], Daniel de Gruiter [Phnom Penh], Lang Hokleng [Phnom Penh], Meun Sothy [Phnom Penh], Roo Griffiths [Phnom Penh], Trinh Do [Australia], Patrick Johnston [Canada], Helena Ignasia [Indonesia], Simanithone Malivarn [Laos], Flor Togonon, Joel Orcena [The Philippines], Shawn Song'en Wee [Singapore], Tram Lyrattanak [South Korea], Vinai Dithajohn [Thailand], Kimhan Peou, Pagnawath Khun, Phalla Chea, Sry Ariya Hout [The United States], Chinh Nguyen [Vietnam].

Trademark and Copyright Notice: Copyright 2006, The Cambodia News & World Report, Ltd., and its related entities. All rights reserved. Use in whole or part of any article or information without prior written consent is prohibited.

Office: 1AE1, Street 163, Phnom Penh III, Cambodia.

Tel: (011).50.05.50 • International Fax: +1 (562).262.2821 info@cambodianewsonline.com • www.cambodianewsonline.com

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HNOM PENH - It has been a bad year for Prince Norodom Ranariddh, leader of FUNCINPEC since the 2003 elections, the coalition partner of the ruling CPP (Cambodian People's Party). One of the first problems to befall him was the voting by his party members to demote him from the leadership to take up the position of "Historical President." Most agreed that "historical" was a synonym for "pointless."

Things then began to go from bad to worse. The CPP's Machiavellian tactics, alleged to be a plan to drain its coalition partner of any power, included bitter tirades, a lawsuit and accusations of infidelity under the new (and extremely quickly passed) Monogamy Law, all directed at the Prince. By the time activities for the 2007 commune council elections were starting to take place, in October 2006, a party split had occurred: FUNCINPEC was peopled only with those loyal to the CPP (and was a much smaller entity and more easily controllable), and the Prince was the head of the new Norodom Ranariddh Party (NRP).

Any support he might have had was put in jeopardy when Phnom Penh Municipal Court sentenced him in absentia to 18 months in jail and ordered him to pay US$150,000 in compensation to FUNCINPEC for illegally selling the party's headquarters. According to the law, the Prince cannot restart his political life unless he completes two-thirds of his sentence or receives a royal pardon. (Similarities with the CPP's

photo: cnwr

Managing Editor: Ward Tipton Sub-Editor: Liam Hamilton Assistant Editor: Jody Yurkowsky Managing Director: Channy Kieng Administrative Staff: Sok Ravy, Doung Pheng Advertising Manager: Seng Sopagna Graphic Designer: Roberto Ramos Distributor: Him Saro

Bad times coming to an end for Prince Ranariddh?

Prince Norodom Ranariddh in better times

tactics against the opposition Sam Rainsy Party one year earlier are marked.) The Prince remains in exile, and his absence is said by most to have been the cause of the NRP's failure to win even a single commune in the elections.

However, King Sihamoni has now agreed to accept an NRP petition for a royal pardon. The King will receive and send the petition to Prime Minister Hun Sen, who will then consider a pardon. The petition letter bears nearly 200,000 thumbprints collected from the Prince's supporters. NRP officials previously denied that they were taking these thumbprints in order to petition the king, but expressed satisfaction in mid-May after the petition was actually accepted. The aim is to allow the Prince to be able to participate once again in politics and to be able to prepare the NRP for the 2008 general elections.

Other methods of obtaining better luck for the Prince are being looked at too. Covering all possibilities, in case the Prime Minister

pulls another fast one on the royal pardon, the NRP are praying for the Prince's return in Buddhist ceremonies. One ceremony was quoted

by NRP members as being important for bringing prosperity to the Prince and to help him avoid political and legal misfortune, now that "his fortune is greatly going down."

Still said to be one of the big four political parties (with the CPP, SRP and FUNCINPEC), the NRP is in reality one of the smaller parties attempting to gain seats at next year's general elections. The SRP has made noises about forming a coalition opposition (although FUNCINPEC has refused to consider this, preferring to stay in bed with the CPP). No other moves have been made on this front, perhaps because of long-term animosity between the Prince and Sam Rainsy, but smaller parties are reportedly considering the benefits of alliance with the NRP. The monarchist Ranakse Sangkum Cheat Niyum Party has decided to dissolve itself in order to join with

the NRP, something which will be confirmed at a conference to take place in the near future. Such a move has been called "monarchist integration": spokespeople say that this will give the monarchists a greater chance of competing against the CPP in 2008.

Recent events, both by chance and by the creative efforts of the CPP, have meant that the popularity of monarchist politics and its leaders has been on the wane.

Broadly popular and with many followers around 1993, FUNCINPEC under Prince Ranariddh led the government until the coup d'état of 1997, when then Second Prime Minister Hun Sen usurped Ranariddh (then serving as First Prime Minister). Since that time, monarchist politics have decreased in popularity, helped in no small measure by CPP cunning and guile.

Now, monarchist politics have almost no standing, particularly among younger people and among urban populations.

A royal pardon and monarchist integration are the great hopes of the NRP in terms of changing all of this. But will praying at a Buddhist ceremony for prosperity and the reversal of poor fortune be enough to combat the masterly skills of Prime Minister Hun Sen and the CPP, and guarantee success for monarchist politics in 2008? It depends entirely on what the Prime Minister wants to happen: if the CPP wants the NRP to succeed, the NRP will succeed. If not, there is no chance.

By Roo Griffiths

American teen tops Mt. Everest

illustrated by joel orcena / cnwr

Issue: 3 • Year: 1

Topping the summit of Mt. Everest, the highest spot in the world, on May 16, makes Samantha Larson, 18, the "top" teen in the world. This young American girl from Long Beach, California has also conquered the 'seven summits,' the tallest peaks on each of the seven continents. According to her website, www.samanthalarson.com, she is the youngest person ever to accomplish that feat.

The Los Angeles Times quoted Samantha Larson in a satellite phone conversation as saying, "I feel really incredible. I feel really great, you know?…I guess I'm kind of relieved that things went well."

While not the youngest person ever to reach the summit of Everest, (a 15 year-old Nepalese girl holds that record), Samantha is certainly the youngest American ever to reach the crown of the world's highest mountain, according to the Los Angeles Times.

She began climbing with her dad, David, a doctor, when she was still in middle school and hauling her school books around with her during the

long, hard ascents. They are, probably, also the first father-daughter team to triumph over the seven summits, though incomplete records make it difficult to be certain.

Samantha was so determined to reach the top of Everest that she delayed her first year of college to undergo the rigorous training necessary and then the trip itself. She plans to attend Stanford University, after graduating with honors from Long Beach Polytechnic High School.

In her interviews she said that because of the altitude she had no appetite and only drank water for several days, to avoid dehydration.

She said it was a bit cold too, "I'd say 30 below…Temperature-wise we were lucky. We had beautiful weather on summit day. There was no wind." She did, however, wear all the clothes she had brought, just to keep warm at the summit, she stated. Samantha's stepmother, Janet Moore, said the father-daughter duo plan to scale Carstensz Pyramid in Indonesia in August. (Cambodia News & World Report)

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Cambodia's garment industry: Ethical, unionized but never peaceful

international groups, leading to interest by foreign sourcers that want their brands to have a squeaky clean image.

But it is the very factor that brings in demand that also causes problems. Unions are constantly in the news, striking, arguing, battling with the government and the Garment Manufacturers Association of Cambodia (GMAC) for better wages, hours and conditions. photo: pagnawath khun

Wal-Mart is one of Cambodia's bigger external customers.

(more trade) in exchange for improvements in labor rights and working conditions. The International Labor Organization has set up monitoring programs, such as Better Factories Cambodia. There have been crises amid shifting global trade situations, but international interest in maintaining the country's image as an ethical producer has protected Cambodia to some extent. The aim is, according to Oxfam International, to show that neoliberal, export-oriented manufacturing plays a part in poverty reduction and development (although it has not been confirmed that this is truly the case). The Cambodian government, trade unions, and employers ostensibly work together toward better labor rights and increased production.

This leads to the first unusual characteristic of Cambodia as a garment producing country: despite its difficulties as a destination for foreign investment, it is seen as a home of ethical production. This has brought in reputation-conscious brands, especially big brands that must

photo: cnwr

HNOM PENH - Two major sectors drive industry in Cambodia. The first is the ever-burgeoning tourism sector, and the second is, of course, the garment industry, a trade historically riven with controversy and scandal around the world.

This has been no less the case in Cambodia, which has seen panic, murder, strikes, and mass firings in recent years. While they have harsh words for the industry as a whole, critics are well aware of the reliance that Cambodia has on a very narrow base of production and the risks that this lack of diversification holds in terms of future growth.

Despite this, the garment industry offers Cambodia a shot at the economic stability that its people crave, and Cambodia has come to be a beacon of ethical production, leading the way for other countries in the fight for fairer trade.

Cambodia's garment industry remains a very important area indeed. It contributes more than 90 percent of the country's foreign earnings and employs around a quarter of a million workers. According to official statistics, there are 286 garment factories in Cambodia, and garment exports have grown to more than $2.2 billion annually in recent years.

But the garment industry is under pressure in Cambodia, not just from competition from other countries. While new factories open, nine existing plants closed between January and March.

Globally, the garment industry is very competitive and at the same time very fragmented: It is not just big buyers who are involved, although these are the ones we hear about the most.

Countries are forced to compete in terms of flexibility and costs to attract customers.

Cambodia certainly has low labor costs, but the kingdom is rife with other problems, such as high levels of corruption, poor infrastructure, high fuel costs, and more, all of which contribute to a poor investment climate. However, Cambodia's U.N.-shepherded easing from years of war and civil strife gave the country a chance for international organizations to create means and methods of ethical production at a time when this was becoming a key factor in global trade.

The U.S. and the EU work with Cambodia on labor conditions, offering positive incentives

Chea Mony, President of the Free Trade Union of Workers of Cambodia

be seen to be working ethically - even if they don't want to.

In 2006, many factories produced goods for Gap and H&M, and several worked with Adidas, Reebok, Nike, Levi Strauss, J.C. Penney, Sears and Wal-Mart. Gap saw purchases in 2003 of around $350 million; Wal-Mart's purchases doubled between 2003 and 2005. Some of the big names work directly with the garment factories (Gap) and others hire local agents (Wal-Mart).

The importance of ethical production to these companies

is clear. Gap stated to "USA Today" in 2005 that Cambodia was doing a lot of things well and that production there would continue growing. Nike pulled out in 2000 after a British documentary found allegedly underage workers in one of its factories, but the firm returned in 2002 to purchase T-shirts, skirts and shorts as a result of ILO programs.

The other area that makes Cambodia unusual is its high degree of unionization, which stands at 60% of workers. This is also often encouraged by

Only this month the government announced plans to update the labor law, first by cutting wages for night shift workers. The proposal would reduce pay to night workers from the current level of 200 percent of daytime wages to 160 percent. The government and GMAC state that this would attract more investors and create more jobs. Unions are promising a nationwide strike, stating that the cost of living already makes their salaries low and that extra cuts will make it difficult for poor workers to survive. In response to the proposals, eight labor unions have joined forces with the stated aims of not just to fight the proposals, but to gain election of its representatives to both the Parliament and Senate.

Amid this back-and-forth, there are reports of employers harassing employees and union leaders, of unfair firings, even murders of union leaders.

Although there are many factories at which fairer conditions are a prerequisite of business, there are others where this is not the case, and there are cer-

tainly many stories of poor conditions and rights abuses.

On the union side there are also problems. Despite the fact that 85% of workers are female, few females hold leadership positions. There is a low level of awareness about labor rights on the part of union members and fragmentation within and between unions, leading to struggles at union level as well as between unions and employers. Some unions are known to be associated with the Cambodian opposition, whereas others are accused of being "in league" with employers and the government.

Bringing in $2 billion a year and currently employing around 300,000 people, Cambodia's garment industry needs its reputation as a country that discourages sweatshops and encourages labor rights to keep attracting orders in such a competitive climate. Eddie Bauer, Gap, H&M Hennes and Mauritz, Liz Claiborne and Phillips-Van Heusen were quick to criticize the recent murder of a top labor leader (the third since 2004), stating concern about the current culture of violence. It remains to be seen if the struggles between the new unions and the heavily corrupt and bureaucratic government can maintain this reputation rather than destroying it. This is particularly relevant recently, as there have again been warnings of industry collapse, this time for the end of 2007, when safeguards against China are lifted.

This may deprive Cambodia of its exclusive access to foreign markets. Sam Ray Mom, acting president of Cambodia's Free Trade Union of Workers, has said "We are very worried that by the end of the year, when the agreement expires, a lot of workers will lose their jobs and see their living standards fall."

The manufacturers also see problems ahead, but pin their hopes on Cambodia's status as an "ethical source" country.

GMAC is working alongside the government in pushing for the United States, the destination for two thirds of Cambodia's exports, to reduce tariffs on garments imported from Cambodia.

"With the abolishment of quotas we see that the only way they can continue this system of reward and encouragement is by giving us preferential treatment on tariffs," Ken Loo, secretary-general of GMAC, said.

By Meun Sothy & Roo Griffiths

Cambodian ship at center of murder hunt BULGARIA - A Cambodian registered ship became the focus of Bulgarian media and police attention on May 11. Following the murder of Dimitar Yankov, a local

politician with alleged links to organised crime, Yankov's killer was believed to have boarded the ship, which then attempted to leave the port of Bourgas without

permission to sail. Police stopped the ship and searched it, but found no sign of the killer. The captain of the ship, an Azerbaijan citizen, admitted trying to illegally Issue: 3 • Year: 1

leave the port of Bourgas, and was fined 5,000 leva (about $3,000 ), plus the costs of the pursuit, and was also banned from entering Bulgarian waters for

10 years.

The murder was believed to have been connected with Bulgaria's organized crime and corruption problems. (Liam Hamilton)

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Rare soft-shell turtle, nesting ground found in Cambodia dredging.

Because it was one of the last strongholds of the former

photo: david emmett

photo: david emmett

The turtle egg. photo: david emmett

Cantor's giant soft shelled turtles in their Mekong habitat. photo: conservation international

HNOM PENH - Researchers have found one of the world's largest and least studied freshwater turtles in Cambodia's Mekong River. This has raised hopes that the threatened species can be saved from extinction.

During a survey in March, Scientists from Conservation International (CI), World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the Cambodian Fisheries Administration and the Cambodian Turtle Conservation Team found and released a rare species, Cantor's giant soft-shell turtle, (Pelochelys cantorii). It was a female turtle and weighed about 11 kilograms (24.2 pounds).

Mr. David Emmett, a CI wildlife biologist, said that the incredible discovery meant that a unique turtle could be saved from disappearing from our planet. He also added, "We thought it might be almost gone, but found it in abundance in this one pristine stretch of the Mekong, making the area the world's most important site for saving this particular species". The turtles had last been seen in the wild in Cambodia in 2003, and it seems to have disappeared from much of its former habitat in Vietnam and Thailand The Cantor's giant soft-shell turtle is different when compared to other comm an turtles. Other turtles have an exterior shell, but the Cantor’s does not, which is absent in the case of this species. This rare species instead has a rubbery skin with ribs fused together to form a protective layer. This layer makes a protective cover over the turtle's internal organs.

The turtle has long claws, and can also extend its neck very quickly in order to use its jaws for biting. They are also extremely powerful, and can crush bones easily. It is the nature of these turtles to spend 95 percent of their lifetime hidden in sand or mud to protect themselves from predators, leaving only their nose and eyes showing.

Emmett notes that a turtle has the fastest strike of any animal; they are even faster than cobras.

They eat

Young turtles found. The turtles can grow to 2 meters long!

crayfish, snails, frogs, fish and even baby ducks. As with other turtles, this kind also spends most of its time in ponds, lakes and in water. All existing turtles, and some other rare species come under the group called Chelonia. Turtles are believed to have existed for about 200 million years.

Researchers are very dedicated to saving the species from extinction. This has become a rare species and researchers have found that it has disappeared from Vietnam and Thailand.

In Cambodia in 2003, scientists found

that soft shelled turtles can grow up to 2 meters (6 feet) in length and weigh more than 50 kilograms (110 pounds).

Turtles too are classed with species like tigers and pandas, which are under the threat of extinction. Now these turtles are categorized as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. These turtles have become rare due to the intense hunting due to its size and edibility, as well as the fact that its habitat faces destruction from dams, irrigation and

Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia, the stretch of Mekong River where these turtles live was closed for many years to scientific exploration. Since security restrictions were relaxed in the late 1990s, this survey was the first detailed study of the area.

Mr. Mark Bezuijen of WWF's Living Mekong Program, who led the team, said, "Our survey work to date has documented some of the highest freshwater biodiversity values in the entire Lower Mekong Basin. We discovered an entirely new plant species, Amorphophallus Sp., along with surviving populations of such threatened species as terns, fish eagles, green peafowl, otters and silvered leaf-monkeys. More than 180 fish species were recorded, including a new record for Cambodia" It was Bezuijen who described the area where the turtle was discovered. He described it as "a near pristine region of tall revering forest, waterways

and island archipelagos, where further exciting biological discoveries will almost certainly be made." He also said that another survey was planned for the area in July 2007 by an international team of flora and fauna experts.

The Cambodian Turtle Conservation Team also participated in the survey. The team has members who are career conservationists and have received long-term mentoring from CI, along with funding from the British energy company BP. It was the responsibility of the team to work closely with WWF staff and explain the rarity and importance of conservation of the species to local fishing communities.

They elucidated the importance of conservation of the species.

Along with this CI, WWF and the Cambodian Turtle Conservation Team plan to make use of local community members to protect nesting beaches for the turtles, and to conduct

David Emmett, a CI wildlife biologist

patrols during the dry season to prevent illegal fishing of the species, prized as an expensive delicacy in neighboring Vietnam. The communities were also provided with financial incentives to compensate probable loss of revenue from illegal trade of the turtles.

By Seng Sopagna

photo: david emmett

Discovery in former Khmer Rouge stronghold could save endangered species.

Issue: 3 • Year: 1

Khmer Rouge Tribunal solves fees argument After the difficulties experienced over the past few months at the Extraordinary Courts in the Chambers of Cambodia (ECCC) over bar fees for international judges, resolution to this issue was finally reached at the beginning of May. Early in the month the Cambodian Bar Association agreed to reduce charges to foreign lawyers from US$4,900 annually to US$500 for the whole trial period. The international participants had claimed that the high charges would discourage foreigners from participating and limit the choice of lawyers for defendants and witnesses. The resolution of this problem saw the road clear for a plenary session to adopt the internal rules for the Khmer Rouge Tribunal. These internal rules are obligatory for the ECCC. Later in the month the national and international judges were revealed to be planning to hold a plenary meeting from June 4 to 13.

This will take place after both groups meet separately on May 31 to consider their stance.

However, there are continued problems.

Prime Minister Hun Sen has claimed that he will no longer talk about the trials, owing to accusations of bias. One of those to be tried, former Khmer Rouge leader Nuon Chea, claims that he has information to reveal on secret enemies, such as those high in the US administration of the time. Meanwhile, civic groups have called for a public audit report on the tribunal process, after the Open Society Justice Initiative last year claimed that Cambodian judges were paying kickbacks from their salaries to enable them to sit on the tribunal. A UNDP audit of the courts was submitted this month but it was said that this was not to be made public. Overall, setbacks have meant that the trial is not likely to start until early 2008.

june 2007

Cambodian Royal Plowing Ceremony: Lean times ahead?

Cambodia celebrates the birthday of King Norodom Sihamoni

at the beginning of the wet season. The ceremony takes place in a park north of Phnom Penh's Royal Palace (in front of the National Museum) and is presided over by King Sihamoni. A royal representative - King Meakh (the "King of Farmers") - leads the royal oxen and plough and a procession of courtesans and priests. The procession circles the field three times: the oxen plough a symbolic furrow, followed by a woman known as Queen Mehour, who sows seeds behind the procession.

Priests then ask for protection for the coming year.

After this, the royal oxen have their harnesses taken off and are led to seven golden trays. These hold rice, corn, sesame, beans, grass, water and wine. The harvest is said to be good if the oxen choose to eat the cereals. Water is good but too much water is a sign of water problems (either

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photo: yin dikalenn

most families depend on the weather to help them to grow their crops. Agriculture has begun to diversify and growth has been good over the past few years, despite difficult weather conditions.

Cambodians this year were watching the omens of the Royal Plowing Ceremony closely in the hope that they would benefit from sufficient rainfall and good growing conditions.

The Royal Plowing Ceremony is known as Bonn Chroat Preah Nongkoal in Khmer. It has been observed since around the 13th century, said to be the time when the first furrow was made and the first organized agriculture began. Cambodians tend to consult traditional manuals when making major decisions in business or other matters, and this is reflected in their attention to the information imparted by this traditional ritual, although not all farmers believe the omens.

Activities are carried out according to the traditional Khmer calendar and take place

drought or flooding) and serious trouble (usually in the form of war or other kinds of chaos) is in store if they choose to eat herbs or drink alcohol.

After much excitement, 2007 did not hold many positive omens for Cambodia (unlike Thailand, where the Thai version of the ceremony predicted bumper crops). The two most significant of the beasts ignored most of the food on offer, leading to predictions of drought, even if this also included presages of peace.

The refusal to touch the rice by both oxen warns of tough times for this nation of mainly rice growers. One of the oxen ate some of the corn in front of it, but the other refused to eat altogether.

Bad omens notwithstanding, the ceremony was enjoyed by all. At the same time, disappointment was short lived, as the King's birthday celebrations followed in the same week: at least there was some cause for celebration.

By Thida Phuong

HNOM PENH - On May 14, Cambodia celebrated the 54th birthday of His Majesty Samdech Preah Bâromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia. Designated a national holiday for the whole kingdom, the event was marked by long sets of prayers and Buddhist rituals in the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, as well as parties and ceremonies across the country, held by those respecting the King and his rule. Ceremonies in the Royal Palace were held in the presence of the supreme patriarchs of the two Buddhist orders, members of the royal family and of the official attachés to heads of state.

King Sihamoni was born on May 14, 1953, in Phnom Penh, son of King Sihanouk and former Queen Monineath. He was chosen to be Cambodia's monarch by the nine-member Royal Council in October 2004, after his father announced his abdication. King Sihanouk, now often known as the King Father, has withdrawn from politics but his voice is still frequently heard in the background, even if this is in an unofficial capacity. King Sihamoni is the second king of the Kingdom of Cambodia in 60 years.

King Sihamoni is known to be a man of culture and religion. A polyglot, he is a graduate of the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague and was a member of the High Council of French-speaking countries (Francophonie) in 2004.

He was also Cambodia's esteemed and respected Ambassador to UNESCO between 1992 and 2004. A fervent Buddhist, the current sovereign is well learned in Buddhist rituals and their deeper meanings, and continues to practice them with rigor, fully assuming the religious dimension that constitutes one of the sources of legitimacy of the King of the Khmer people.

It could not have been easy to follow an historical and political giant such as King Norodom Sihanouk. The regime put in place

by King Father after he achieved Cambodian independence in 1954, until the coup d'état in 1979 which plunged the country into war, is viewed by many to have been a "golden age." But King Sihamoni has been able to reconnect the people to the monarchy after years of turmoil, and has reawakened eroded faith.

Standing decidedly on the margin of politics, his aim is rather to remain neutral and ensure the survival of monarchical institutions in the new millennium. King

against poverty and despair have provoked admiration among the population. The King's responsibilities are heavy in this "Second Kingdom" of Cambodia, where too much popularity or a too committed speech can be interpreted badly by jealous political players.

With the risk of either disappointing the people or offending pow-

King Sihamoni has become well known on his many travels.

Sihamoni has made much of the values that the Cambodia of his father gave to him: promotion of culture, respect of religion, and social action. Very early on, the new sovereign made sure that he took himself to meet the people in all the 24 provinces and municipalities across the kingdom.

Following his father, whose

Issue: 3 • Year: 1

retirement has not ended his work on behalf of the people, the new sovereign has multiplied his charitable works, visiting social centers, hospitals and NGOs, often not hesitating to make unscheduled stops in the poorest zones of the country. Pictures of the King taking poor people in his arms and encouraging them to struggle

erful political players, the continued existence of monarchical institutions is only possible if a delicate equilibrium is maintained. King Sihamoni has so far achieved this balance, steadying a changing society and one which has been in many respects traumatized.

By Meun Sothy ad

The Royal Plowing Ceremony is always full of colorful traditions.

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photo: yin dikalenn

PHNOM PENH - Hot on the heels of April's Khmer New Year comes one of the most important events of May: the Royal Plowing Ceremony.

Taking place this year on May 5 in Cambodia, this ritual comes from ancient times as a method of forecasting the weather to inform agriculture for the coming year. Particular signs to look out for are those which foretell good harvests, droughts, heavy rainfall and flooding or epidemics.

The Royal Plowing Ceremony is a significant event in Cambodia. With agriculture representing the mainstay of most Cambodian families (up to 80 percent of the population is made up of rural farmers), clement conditions are of the utmost importance for people's livelihoods. This is particularly the case as Cambodian agriculture suffers from a lack of modernization, irrigation and technology:

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OS ANGELES, Calif. - Immigration rose to the top of the political agenda in the U. S. in May as protests, police violence, and politics came together in an explosive mix across the nation. Now it seems that there is agreement that the whole issue of immigration needs to addressed-only the "how" remains to be resolved.

On May 1 in Los Angeles, protesters raised signs declaring-in both English and Spanish-"Stop the raids and deportations!" and "Stop the war on immigrants." Some signs read, "If you think I'm 'illegal' because I'm a Mexican, learn the true history, because I'm in my homeland," a reference to the fact that the area changed hands from Mexico to the U.S. as a result of border changes in 1845.

The "Day Without Immigrants," first held on May 1, 2006, is a yearly one-day boycott of U. S. schools and businesses by immigrants. Boycott organizers chose this date to coincide with May Day, the International Workers Day observed as a national holiday in Asia, most of Europe, and Mexico, but not officially recognized in the United States.

Celebrating May Day as a workers' holiday began in 1886, with striking laborers in Chicago demanding an eight-hour

America: A "Nation of workday. Since then, the day of protest has been adapted to serve many causes worldwide.

In the second annual "Day Without Immigrants" protest this year, immigrants across America showed their presence with mass rallies, demanding American citizenship.

Organizers were even more eager for participation this year than last, with the threat of immigration reform taking a back seat to the 2008 presidential elections.

The term "illegal alien" or "illegal immigrant" brings to mind people sneaking across the border in the dead of night, the typical American's vision of how undocumented workers arrive in the United States. In a broader sense, though, "illegal alien" also applies to those who follow proper procedures to enter legally but do not renew their visa in time or fail to return home as promised.

Latinos are not the only immigrants affected by any proposed reforms.

Indeed, the United States is rightly described as a nation of immigrants. The proud boast of some of the country's most

One of the protesters fell down during the crackdown by riot police on May 1, 2007. ad

Issue: 3 • Year: 1

porters become ever more shrill and outrageous, the silent majority of Americans are remaining silent no longer. We are proud and delighted to give a voice to the millions of hardworking, law-abiding Hispanic Americans whose views are too often misrepresented," said Dan Stein, president of FAIR. Claudia Spencer, a member of the Hispanic American organization You Don't Speak for Me! told FOX News, "These people have been telling us for a long time they hate to be treated like criminals. What they're doing today, throughout the whole country, is behaving just like that. We feel really, really offended‌they are hurting everything in the United States, including us, the legal Latinos."

Though they had been hoping around 5 million protesters would line the streets of America on May 1, "A Day Without Immigrants" organizers said there was only a disappointing 1 million. If organizers were worried that increased raids and deportations of illegals had kept many away from the rallies, they could be rightcertainly the T-shirts proclaiming, "I'm illegal. So what?" of last year were missing. In Chicago, where more than 400,000 swarmed the streets last year, police put initial estimates at 150,000, by far the country's single largest turnout.

Los Angeles police violence In Los Angeles, where several hundred thousand turned out a year earlier, "about 25,000 attended a downtown rally," said police Captain Andrew Smith, according to the Associated Press. The Los Angeles Times put the figure at about 35,000. By far the largest illegal immigrant population is in Los Angeles, where an estimated 1 million undocumented workers reside, and the barrio around photo: pagnawath khun

venerable families is, "We came over on the Mayflower." For its entire history the U. S. has seen waves of immigration-first from Europe, then (via the slave trade) from Africa, after that from Asia, and now from every part of the world. The Statue of Liberty, standing in New York's great harbor, bears the inscription "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore‌" But now it seems that many Americans believe that the message should be changed to "Enough! Too many!

No more!"

Immigrants in the U. S. are worried that the complete lack of attention given to the topic

by Congress reflects governmental intent to ignore the issue. The U.S. Senate planned on working through the weekend of May 13 to find a compromise to the bipartisan stalemate between Democrat and Republican members.

The protesters are demanding a path to citizenship for the estimated 12 million illegal immigrants in America. Organizations such as the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) held counter-rallies on May 1, saying that they were glad to have the opportunity to counter the views of illegal immigrants. "As the demands of illegal aliens and their sup-

One of protesters fell down during the crackdown by riot police.

MacArthur Park in Los Angeles is one of the nation's most densely populated immigrant communities.

The right to peaceful assembly in protest is part of the U.S. Constitution, written into the Bill of Rights. However, the police are given the right to con-

special report

cambodia news & world report

june 2007

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Immigrants" no more?

Protesters (pictured above) waving the US flag as well as the flags of nations of origin in the immigration protest on May 1. photo: pagnawath khun

The riot police were out in force...

He took part in both the May 1 and May 17 rallies and told Cambodia News & World Report, "The purpose of me coming today is for two reasons: First, not to feel intimidated and to allow your voice to be heard as this country believes in freedom of speech whether you're legal or illegal, and we come here today to make that voice present; second, to put pressure on the Congress to act on immigration reform."

Hector described the May 1 event as a day of aggression.

"The position that police took was one of aggression. Instead of showing the passive mood, they showed the aggressive mood," he said. "Today, you can see that police showed up in plain clothes without the helmets, without the batons now, but that day when I came out of the Metro and as soon as I got off, I saw the police presence-it was a little frightening."

Ericka Ruiz, 19, participating in the May 17 rally, said she came to the rally for many reasons.

"I was born here but my parents are from Mexico; my whole family is from Mexico. We came here to experience a new life and a new beginning," she said.

When asked if police took any action on the rally on the May 17, Ericka replied that she had heard nothing. "We did not do anything wrong actually, and

Issue: 3 • Year: 1

they are having fun," she said, referring to the good-natured crowds that danced during the rally.

Most illegal immigrants in America come here to do the jobs that the majority of Americans see as inferior work: field work, hotel housekeeping, manual labor, and other tasks that don't pay enough to support the lifestyle most Americans desire.

According to U.S. government statistics, the proportion of immigrants to the total population of the United States is currently 9.3 percent. Foreign-born residents accounted for 5 million more people in the 1990s than

One of the “rubber bullets” fired at the crowd.

Kimhan Peou)

By Pagnawath Khun & Kelly Schub

photo: pagnawath khun

people, including police officers and the media, were hurt.

Reporters were able to capture video and still photos of police beating news reporters.

The reporters were beaten with batons while some officers stepped on and kicked camera equipment. The Radio and Television News Association in California requested an internal police investigation, calling the police attack on reporters "an act of brutal and violent attack against the media."

Afterward, Los Angeles Police Chief William J. Bratton said some police officers might have used inappropriate force. "Investigators will be interviewing injured members of the media.

They will also work to identify the officers involved in the uses of force," Bratton said. Seven police officers suffered minor injuries; eight adults and one juvenile were arrested for several offences, including drinking in public and assault with a deadly weapon (for throwing a rock at officers); and one arrest was made for interfering with police, according to Bratton. The chief subsequently ordered 60 police officers off the street pending the result of investigations. He also demoted and reassigned Deputy Chief Cayler Carter, the highest-ranking police officer in MacArthur Park during the riot. According to reports on KNX, a Los Angeles

photo: pagnawath khun

photo: pagnawath khun

trol crowds as needed, to keep the peace and prevent rioting.

A street-closure permit granted to organizers of the Los Angeles march was revoked several days before May 1, leaving organizers little time to get the word out and develop new plans for a sidewalk march.

One witness reported that people began the march obeying directions, but couldn't stay on the sidewalk because there were too many people. Police on bicycles pushed protesters from one side of the street to the other and used sirens to intimidate protesters and to emphasize that the police were in charge. Low-flying helicopters circling overhead ordered everyone to leave.

In the evening of the May 1 rally at MacArthur Park, Los Angeles police in riot gear converged and tried to disperse a crowd of several thousand shortly after the march ended, and soon a group of protesters started throwing bottles and rocks at police. Police fired tear gas at the demonstrators and fired 146 foam rubber bullets at the crowd, ABC News reported.

Victims of police violence on May 1 have repeatedly stated that police harassment of the march began at the start of the march and escalated as the day progressed, according to various eyewitness reports. According to the Associated Press, dozens of

news radio station, Bratton went on to say, "Quite frankly, I was disturbed at what I saw.

Some of the officers' actions…were inappropriate in terms of use of batons and possible use of non-lethal rounds fired."

Bratton may have expressed "grave concern," but he apologized to the media, not to the demonstrators. The National Lawyers Guild stated that it, along with attorneys from the Mexican American Legal Defence and Educational Fund, filed a class action lawsuit in federal court in Los Angeles on May 9 on behalf of the community groups who organized the May Day rally at MacArthur Park. The lawsuits have not been heard or ruled on yet.

A number of immigrant-rights organizations then called a protest demonstration, called "March for Justice," on May 17 starting at 5:30 pm at Los Angeles' Immanuel Presbyterian Church and ending with a rally at MacArthur Park. Demonstrators marching for immigration reform converged peacefully on the site of the so-called May Day melee; the march by roughly 2,000 immigrants and their supporters was aimed at reassuring the community that they could exercise their constitutional rights. "In this great city, we can walk and march with our families," Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa told the crowd.

"And we can march in peace."

Kurt Krueger, 24, one of the participants in the May 17 rally, told Cambodia News & World Report at MacArthur Park that "I came here to give the light to the entire immigration law that is going on." When asked what he felt about the May 1 rally event, he said, "It was totally police brutality at its worst." He went on to say that on that day the police moved the immigration marchers off the streets and used excessive force, rubber bullets, and batons on them.

Kimthai R. Kuoch is the executive director of the Cambodian Association of America, a nonprofit organization based in Long Beach. He said that he had no idea whether there were any Cambodian groups attending the immigration rallies. Kimthai said the Cambodian immigrant population across the U.S. is estimated to be more than 200,000. In Long Beach alone, he said, it is estimated that there are about 55,000 Cambodian immigrants.

Hector Martinez, whose mother is from Mexico, is 37 and currently living in Los Angeles.

in the 1980s; by 1998 immigrants numbered 25.2 million, and that number increased to 31.1 million by 2000. With 675,000 new immigrants being allowed in annually since 1990, and as many as 1.1 million entering this year, the United States remains a popular place.

This leaves the U.S. government in a very difficult position.

Twelve million boisterous illegal immigrants will not go quietly.

If the Bush administration grants the illegal immigrants citizenship, it will create problems with legal immigrants already here. Bush has adamantly opposed a path to immediate citizenship, but he has said that he is willing to look at a process that would see illegal immigrants apply, work six years, pay a fine, learn to speak English and then pass a citizenship test.

But some politicians take a different line. Senator Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts compared the protests to the civil rights movement in the 1960s led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Addressing a rally in Washington, D.C., Kennedy said, "It is time for Americans to lift their voices once again-this time in pride for our immigrant past and in support of our immigrant future." On May 17, Kennedy was able to announce that politicians from both the Democratic and Republican parties had managed to agree on proposals to address the thorny issue. The proposals include measures to create a "temporary workers" program, as well as a more-permanent arrangement in which people would be allowed to enter the U. S. based on merit.

However, with the current political climate in the U. S., and with other issues seemingly taking a higher priority for the current administration, it remains to be seen if these proposals can become law. (Additional Reporting:

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asean

www.cambodianewsonline.com

HILIPPINES - Quite a number of political upsets and controversies marred the recently held Philippine midterm elections, the effects of which are expected to loom over the country's system of governance and political scene for the next 3 to 6 years.

The Commission on Elections' (COMELEC) initial prediction of 60 to 70 percent voter turnout did not hold up, according to accredited poll watchdog and quick count body National Movement for Free Election (NAMFREL). In a press conference held over the weekend of May 19 to May 20, NAMFREL asserted that based on their records, only 50 percent trooped to the polling precincts for the May 14 elections. There was also a dismal turnout in the Overseas Absentee Voting department. As of May 14, only 20 percent of the anticipated 504,110 Filipinos currently abroad showed up to cast their votes.

The numbers looked grim, given that COMELEC had predicted a 90 percent turnout just days before the election proper.

Roughly 45 million registered

voters were electing 12 senators, 236 House of Representatives (Congress) members and roughly 17,500 local officials. Teachers working for the Department of Education have been employed to assist the voters and guard the ballots and ballot boxes up until these are turned over to the COMELEC. Since efforts to automate the polls failed to push through, it's still manual vote counting for the Philippines and as expected, the same old problems arose.

Numerous voters around the country have complained that they could not find their names on the voting register.

"I voted during the last elections but today, I can't find my name." said Lilian Barretan, 57, a fish vendor. Barretan said she tried to ask for assistance from COMELEC officials present at the precinct. She later on decided not to vote because the waiting took up too much of her time.

"They didn't know how my name could not be included in the list. They asked the head office but I couldn't wait any longer since I had to earn money so that my family has something

A queue of voters wait to cast their ballots at a local poll station.

to eat." she said.

Vote buying was also rampant especially in poor areas. Reports have surfaced, alleging that some candidates pay as much as 1,000 pesos (approximately 20 US dollars) per vote. Some candidates also gave gift certificates, goodie bags and other tokens. ad

Forty year old Cielito said that she received an envelope containing two 500-peso bills plus a sample ballot with all the names of the candidates she was supposed to vote for. She said she did not accept the envelope because she wanted to vote based on the dictates of her conscience. Cielito's move could be considered a response to the Roman Catholic Church's call for Filipinos not to sell their votes.

On the Sunday prior to the elections, the Church, along with several companies, placed full page advertisements in newspapers. Archbishop Angel Lagdameo of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines stated in a press release: "Remember, the candidate who wins by cheating will also govern by cheating."

There were also complaints of missing ballot forms, election returns and disapproval of registered names. COMELEC had to postpone the voting in Pantar, Lanao del Norte, Mindanao, for instance, and rejected the names of 2,000 voters. COMELEC didn't cite any clear reasons. Ballot box grabbing was also reported in southern Maguindanao province, where armed men reportedly snatched four ballot boxes containing election documents.

Major election-related violence happened in both Ilocos Norte and Pangasinan. In Ilocos Norte, newly-elected mayor Philip Velasco and councilorelect Marcelo Andaya were killed, along with at least five civilians. The two were at a farmers' fiesta celebration in Bacarra. Mayor Julian Resuello of San Carlos City, Pangasinan was also killed. The mayor was grac-

Issue: 3 • Year: 1

photo: maria irene

Controversies mar Philippine midterm elections P

ing the fiesta celebration when a gunman open fired. Resuello died two days after the incident.

The Washington Post reports that a total of 121 people have already died in the months leading towards the elections, with many more injured. Despite these figures, police released a statement hours after the elections that said the activity was "peaceful".

As of press time, quick count polls showed quite an upset for the reigning administration party. Rival 'Genuine Opposition' (GO) has been dominating the Senate race as of press time.

Eight opposition candidates are included in the leading 12.

Backed by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, 'Team Unity' (administration ticket) only managed to see two of its candidates in the magic 12, while the two remaining spots are occupied by independents. While the independents have shown good promise in the polls, the Philippine elections remain a GO versus TU race. GO is highly supported by former leader Joseph Estrada, who was ousted from office in 2001 after an "Edsa II People Power" revolt. Estrada is facing an ongoing trial for graft and corruption as well as money laundering cases.

Other political upsets were seen in local areas such as South Cotabato, where world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao was defeated in his bid for a seat in Congress. Pacquiao ran under the administration ticket. Incumbent Makati City mayor Jejomar Binay, who was served a suspension order prior to May 14, won another 3-year term. Binay's preventive suspension has since been deferred until June 14, the last day of the election period.

Binay is a known ally of the opposition and is governor of one of the country's richest cities. The biggest upset at the local arena, though, is in Pampanga province. What was initially seen as a battle royal between two political heavyweights turned into a victory for a well-loved parish priest. Fr. Eddie Panlilio beat Lilia Pineda and re-electionist Mark Lapid.

Archbishop Lagdameo of CBCP congratulated the priest but maintained that the Church does not encourage the clergy to enter politics. Lagdameo said he expects Fr. Panlilio, fondly called "Among Ed", to be the "object of praise and criticism." The Philippines is a predominantly Catholic country.

Despite all the controversies surrounding the elections, the Philippine Stock Exchange reported an increase of 12 percent this year. The value of the peso was also at its highest level against the US dollar since year 2000.

By Maria Irene

Lawmakers raise concerns about water In mid-May, the Cambodian National Assembly met to discuss water maintenance issues and to raise their concerns, particularly over Phnom Penh wetlands.

Development in and around the capital has led to increased incidences of landfill around the city. Such areas used to act as floodplains during the rainy season; national lawmakers claimed that filling in such rivers, creeks and marshes was likely to cause increased flooding.

In addition, residents have complained recently that the waterways that they are using to survive are being filled in by private companies, leading to a loss of livelihoods.

Other problems with Cambodia's water have been identified as arising from environmental issues. The Tonle Sap River, which drags down a huge annual volume of fish after its unique flow reversal, used to enable fisheries to catch as much as 14,000 tons a year.

Fish is one of the main staples of the lower Mekong Basin but quality and quantity are decreasing because of fishing pressure and environmental change.

Dams on the upstream Mekong and its tributary and pollution from agriculture have also contributed to threatening the fishing industry.

Around the Tonle Sap Lake too, conversion of nearby wetland habitats through landfill have raised concerns about the impact on the livelihoods of the poor and those who depend on fishing for their existence.

The session in the National Assembly saw different party members stating their concerns about such issues. A FUNCINPEC lawmaker, Maonh Saphan, said he was concerned: "When there are floods, can authorities stationed there face them when the water overflows?" From the opposition Sam Rainsy Party (SRP), lawmaker Son Chhay said that Phnom Penh had seen increased land fill of lakes around its perimeter. He expressed concern that just a few rainfalls in the dry season would flood the city.

world

Nicolas Sarkozy elected 23rd President of France munity issues and the need to help the poorest members of society. For months leading up to the election, opinion polls swung back and forth, showing either Mr. Sarkozy or Ms Royale as potential winner of the Presidential election. The other candidates lagged behind, trying to win back the little attention the media could give to them.

The choice between the two leading candidates was not easy.

In a France where people are worried about future, scared by insecurity, mistrustful and disappointed with politicians, this election was seen to be very difficult and unpredictable. When people are worried, disappointed or scared, they have two courses open to them: either to move on or to look for protection. Such was the choice of French people. These choices were perhaps personified by Mr. Sarkozy, representing a choice to move onwards, and the protection offered by Ms. Royale, the maternal figure.

Since no candidate had gathered the minimum 50 percent to be directly elected, a second round of voting took place, where the two leading candidates faced each other as a straight choice for voters.

Mr. Sarkozy won this second round, with 53.06 percent of votes, Ms. Royale gathering 46.94 percent.

Mr. Sarkozy will have a lot of issues to deal with, the most important being unemployment and insecurity, as well as improving France's influence within the international community.

A new President is always a new reason for people to dream, to hope and to seek for improvements in their lives. This change can bring a new creative energy for everybody, in every level of the country. The next months will be essential and it will be interesting to observe whether France is going to really change or whether it will follow the same path traced for decades by successive French Presidents.

The future will show us the answer.

By Delattre Romuald

Graphic: Roberto Ramos

Nicolas Sarkozy (photo)

VOTES (in %) 31.18 25.87 18.57 10.44 4.08 2.23 1.93 1.57 1.33 1.32 1.15 0.34

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In the first round of voting, the candidates fared as follows: CANDIDATES NICOLAS SARKOZY SEGOLENE ROYALE FRANCOIS BAYROUX JEAN MARIE LE PEN OLIVIER BESANCENOT PHILIPPE DE VILLIERS MARIE GEORGE BUFFET DOMINIQUE VOYNET ARLETTE LAGUILLIER JOSE BOVE FREDERIC NIHOUS GERARD SCHIVARDI

cambodia news & world report

Blair to go after 10 years: Britain looks at his legacy E

NGLAND - On May 10, the world listened to British Prime Minister Tony Blair's announcement that he will step down from his position as the country's premier on June 27.

The announcement was made in a speech to Labour Party activists in Blair's own constituency of Sedgefield, having already briefed the U.K. Cabinet.

urging Britain to stay the course in the fight against terrorism.

Recent years have seen him and his government accused by opposition members of parliament of not living up to expectations and dashing the hopes of the British public in key areas.

At the same time, Blair has been hailed as the man who has

leadership battle, said "I spoke for millions when I said at Cabinet today that Tony Blair's achievements are unique, unprecedented and enduring."

U.S. President George W Bush said he would miss Blair, praising him as a man able to think over the horizon and a man who keeps his word.

All in all, it's difficult to deny

tabled a parliamentary motion to ask Queen Elizabeth to dissolve parliament and call a general election rather than allow for an internal party election of the new leader.

How will you remember Mr Blair?

Josh Davies (42), teacher, Buckinghamshire: "As a total nightmare. The war in Iraq was photo: elsevier.nl

FRANCE - On May 16, 2007, Mr. Nicolas Sarkozy, newly elected, officially took office as the 23rd President of France. After 12 years under Jacques Chirac's Presidency, such a major change makes this a good time to review the candidates during this election.

In France, one condition is essential to be able to run for Presidency. It is first of all necessary to gather 500 signatures of elected people (usually mayors).

As soon as these 500 signatures are gathered, the nominee can officially become a candidate.

For this election, there were twelve official candidates. The main candidates, representing the main French political parties this year were Mr. Nicolas Sarkozy (UMP = Right Party), Ms. Segolene Royal (PS = Social Party), Mr. Francois Bayroux (UDF = Union of French People) and Jean Marie Le Pen (FN = French National Party). The others candidates can best be described as "regular candidates", politicians who have run for the Presidency during several elections, obtaining each time a limited number of votes. In this category, this year, were Mr. Olivier Besancenot (LCR = Revolutionary Communist Party), Ms. Arlette Laguillier (LO = Labor Party), Philippe De Villiers (MPF = Movement for France), Ms .Dominique Voynet (LES VERTS = Ecologic Party), Frederic Nihous (CNPT = Hunting, Nature, Fishing and Tradition), Marie George Buffet (PC = Communist Party), Jose Bove and Gerard Schivardi (independent candidates).

This year, there were two "favorite" candidates. On one hand was Nicolas Sarkozy, former Minister for the Economy and Minister for the Interior. He is a communicator "par excellence", who knows how to work on his image, to control every part of his campaign. He focused on security, immigration and changes for the future. On the other hand, was Segolene Royal.

Wife of the Social Party Leader, Mr. Francois Hollande, she was aiming to become the first woman President of France. She focused on family values, com-

june 2007

A statesman or a tyrant? Blair has been a global symbol of the past 10 years.

Blair will stay on as leader of both the party and the country until Labour elects a new leader.

Blair said that his 10 years in power had been long enough, both for the country and for himself.

After Blair's announcement, Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Labour Leader John Prescott also announced his intention to leave office.

A leadership campaign for Blair's replacement has now begun. Gordon Brown, currently chancellor of the exchequer, is the most probable successor; he is unlikely to face a challenge since all high-level contenders have ruled themselves out.

A decade in power has seen many controversial decisions and difficult choices. Blair has been the subject of widespread criticism for his support of the U.S. in its invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan. His speech saw him standing by this decision,

brought the U.K. bursting into the new millennium: Never has Britain seemed more attractive to outsiders. The economy has been strengthened, unemployment is down, and the country seems at last to be a modern and exciting destination of choice for business and tourism, in contrast with its former reputation as a gray and somewhat dismal shadow of its former self.

Whatever the opinions about Blair himself and his actions, very few deny that he has worked with commitment and dedication, tirelessly throwing himself into his job. He has visibly aged in the 10 years after a May election in 1997, when the youthful and invigorated Blair held his hands up in victory after modernizing his party from the bottom up.

Tributes to Blair have rolled in from across the world. Brown, expected to win the prime minister's seat in the upcoming

Issue: 3 • Year: 1

that Blair was speaking the truth when he said during his speech "I have always done what I thought was right." He concluded, somewhat emotionally, that Britain was a blessed nation. "The British are special the world knows it, in our innermost thoughts we know it.

This is the greatest nation on earth." However, opposition groups rejected his sentiments as defensive and jaded.

Whoever wins the leadership contest, Blair will be a hard act to follow. As Nick Robinson of the BBC says, "we have grown used to having a leader who is always center stage". If Brown follows Blair, he will have to find a way either to counteract claims that he is a cold character or shrug them off and find the confidence to do his own thing his own way.

The Liberal Democrats, the second opposition party after the Conservative Party, have

completely illegal. I will never forgive him for that."

Lou Smith (32), human resources manager, Berkshire: "He won three consecutive elections, and there was a reason for that. He was the man who rebuilt Britain."

Marianne Brown (55), radiographer, London: "Tony Blair rescued the country from a mess, where health and education services had disintegrated and society was plunging into chaos."

Johnny Shaw (21), gardener, Devon: "He is a war criminal.

The people dying in Iraq should be on his conscience forever."

Adrian Fry (40), sound editor, London: "He had a hard job.

There were tough choices to be made. I'm not sure even now why he made the choices he did and I certainly don't agree with them, but I will accept it wasn't easy for him."

By Roo Griffiths

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P

HNOM PENH - The most famous singer in Cambodia, Preap Sovath, was recently the subject of rumors that he had been shot in Phnom Penh with some of his friends. These rumors turned out to be false, but panic gripped his legions of fans as they worried that he had met the same fate as so many other famous young Cambodian stars.

What would Cambodia do without Preap Sovath?

In an interview with

Acting, Singing, Business: Preap Sovath, success across the board fact that most of his sales are of VCDs rather than CDs, with the VCD film clips accompanied by karaoke-style subtitles.

Preap Sovath is always busy, singing, recording and taking part in many televised live concerts. He also runs various businesses, including a barbershop and a clothes design shop; he also plans to run a wedding shop where brides and grooms can go to prepare for their big day.

He used to hold residencies at the most fashionable upmarket nightclubs in Phnom Penh, but he says that those residencies stopped after he started working with Hang Meas Production. "Currently I am very busy recording songs for Hang Meas Production Company," he said, although he says he has no contract with Hang Meas.

Hang Meas is generally recognized as Cambodia's most progressive recording label. General Manager Eng Songliep said that Preap Sovath is a very active performer, and that he is now recording new songs to compete with other com-

ad

panies (and singers) on the market.

Eng Songliep further stated that the production company is going to produce a new volume of songs monthly, featuring actors including Preap Sovath, Sapoun Midada, Sokun Nisa and others.

Hang Meas Production also produces the Best of the Best, an annual live concert that started in 2004, taking place in Phnom Penh and showcasing all of Cambodia's current pop singers. The concert is free, as the company profits from DVDs and CDs sold afterward (both in Cambodia and overseas). The concert was originally held at the Spark Center (nightclub), but it later moved to the Olympic Stadium.

Preap Sovath is one of the stalwarts of this concert, and fans rush to get on stage and get an autograph or give the singer gifts. Preap Sovath "live in concert" is a must for all young people in Cambodia, and those interviewed on the street have either seen him many times or yearn to see him desperately.

Eng Songliep said that the company spends a great deal of effort and money bringing in the per-

Issue: 3 • Year: 1

By Meun Sothy

MEXICO - In a glittering finale to the 2007 Miss Universe competition in Mexico City, May 28 2007 saw Miss Japan, Riyo Mori, crowned the ultimate winner of the year's contest for the most beautiful woman.

Riyo Mori is 20 years old and has been dancing since she was four. She says she loves traveling the world and visiting museums as well as watching musicals.

Miss Japan saw off strong competition from Miss Brazil, Miss Venezuela, Miss Korea and Miss USA in the top five.

Miss Brazil, Natalia Guimaraes, came in as first runner-up and will assume the duties of Miss Universe 2007 if Riyo Mori cannot fulfill her responsibilities.

Prizes include the official Miss Universe Mikimoto pearl tiara, a two-year scholarship from the New York Film Academy and an international multimedia advertising campaign. A variety of custom designed items of clothing from different designers are also included, as well as a whole cornucopia of watches and toiletries. Miss Universe also receives a rent-free year in a New York apartment and representation by the Miss Universe Organization and Trump Model Management.

The Miss Universe Organization is quick to point out that the competition is not just about beauty. Miss Universe is expected to be an all-round ambassa-

dor on the organization's missions. The Miss Universe Organization is made up of a partnership between Donald Trump and NBC Universal.

One of its major focuses is the campaign to increase HIV/AIDS awareness by targeting women's health and reproductive issues. It does this by creating partnerships with organizations dealing with research and education, including the Latino Commission on AIDS and the Global Health Council.

Miss Universe was first held in 1952 in Long Beach, California, after the winner of Miss America 1951 refused to pose in a swimsuit designed by one of the major sponsors. The brand's manufacturers, Pacific Mills, withdrew and set up Miss USA and Miss Universe. It was first televised in 1955, and was owned by Kayser Roth and then Gulf and Western Industries, before being acquired by Donald Trump in 1996.

The pageant is held in a different country every year, after candidates are selected from the participating countries. It lasts two weeks allowing for rehearsals. The competition covers different categories of clothing, including evening wear and swimsuits, as well as conversations: Miss Universe must be 'intelligent, well mannered and cultured', according to the Miss Universe Organization.

(Cambodia News & World Report) photo: getty images

Cambodia News and World Report, Preap Sovath confirmed that the rumor was not true and at the same time expressed his heartfelt thanks and gratitude to all his fans who had been worried about him and sent their support to him.

Born in 1972 in Cambodia, Preap Sovath is an extremely wellknown singer and actor, recognized all over the country. His songs dominate television channels and karaoke bars. He says that he began working as a singer in 1994 and so far has performed and recorded between 800 and 900 songs.

The singer generally avoids traditional Cambodian musical styles, instead taking on a modern ballad form that appeals to Cambodia's youth.

His style is known as Khmer Karaoke, derived from the

formers, leasing the site and signing up corporate sponsors. Hang Meas sees it as a flagship production and know that it has to be made better every year: Eng Songliep adds that now many production companies and other competitors, including U2 and Neak Meas, are trying to take a bite of the market for themselves.

Preap Sovath has also performed internationally. "I have visited the U.S., France, Canada and Australia to perform, among others," he said.

In 2006, he toured the U.S. with other Cambodian singers, visiting Lowell (Massachusetts), San JosĂŠ, Stockton and Fremont (California), Portland (Oregon) and Seattle (Washington).

He has also been invited by the Cambodian Association in Australia to perform at a charity benefit for orphans whose parents have died of HIV/AIDS or as a result of war. This cause is close to his heart: "I lost my father in childhood through war myself".

Preap Sovath's father died during the Khmer Rouge regime, and he lived with his mother, who served in the military.

"I have two hometowns," he said. "One in Koh Thom and the other in Koh Khe, in Kandal province. One hometown is that of my father's side and the other is that of my mother's side." He said that when he started performing he found it difficult, but that the struggle was necessary because he loved and was dedicated to working as an artist from a young age. He was encouraged by his parents, who were both keen artists and singers.

You would think that any of this top pop star's spare time would be spent in rest, but no. As well as his tireless work on the singing front, Preap Sovath has made forays into the world of acting. In 2005, he starred in Nesat Krapeu (Crocodile Hunting), written by His Excellency Mao Ayuth, secretary of state for the Ministry of Information and president of the Cambodian Association of Television. Preap Sovath had to prove that he had the capability to hunt a crocodile, something regarded with great awe by Cambodian audiences. He was awarded a golden tray for his performance in the movie and he received great accolades from viewers.

Wanlan University student Leng Phirun admires Preap Sovath because "his voice is so meaningful, and even when he is singing at top volume he has the full range of a foreign singing star." Leng Phirun is also interested in Preap Sovath's film performances, saying that nobody can perform like him.

"After I come home from work, I always play Preap Sovath's songs to pass the time and put life back in me."

Miss Japan is Miss Universe 2007

Miss Japan, Riyo Mori during the the Miss Universe 2007 pageant final on May 28, 2007 in Mexico City, Mexico.

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cambodia news & world report

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Agreement on development triangle A two-day conference between Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam came to an end on Friday May 19 with unanimous agreement on moves towards developing a mechanism and policy to give incentives to the development triangle. The coordination committee meeting took place in the Vietnamese Central Highlands province of Gia Lai and was jointly chaired

by Cambodian Minister for Commerce Cham Pradish, Head of the Lao Committee for Planning and Development Sulivong Dalavong, and Vietnamese Minister for Planning and Investment Vo Hong Phuc. Discussions dealt with transport, business, trade and investment, and specific matters considered included preferential tariffs, procedural

simplification and cross-border transportation. The conference called for increased external investment in the development triangle.

Other external activities in the development triangle have been supported by Japan, which pledged during a conference in Vietnam in April to give US$20 million to help build infrastructure in the region. At the same conference, which dealt with promotion of investment into the development triangle and welcomed 250 investors, Vietnam pledged equal treatment and free transfer of capital and remittance for foreign investors in Vietnam.

The coordination committee comprises four subcommittees, dealing with economics, external affairs, social affairs and the

Appointment of new Minister for tourism

environment, and local coordination. Its aim is to advise on policy and management aimed at regional economic cooperation, and to coordinate implementation of socioeconomic development in the triangle.

The next meeting of the coordination committee will be held in Cambodia in February 2008.

Meanwhile, Cambodia and Vietnam are to begin installing 118 more border markers on May 24, along the border of Kompong Cham province. These are in addition to the first phase markers at the international checkpoint at Bavet/Moc Bai in September 2006, and will ultimately consist of a total of 353 markers along 1,270km of border

by December 2008. Vietnam will pay for construction and installation of the markers.

In mid-May, the Cambodian National Assembly approved the appointment of a new Minister for Tourism, former secretary of state Thong Kon. Thong Kon is from the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP). He was formerly Secretary of State and will replace former Minister H.E. Lay Prohas. The appointment of the new minister was decided in the assembly with 84 voting for and eight against, with nine invalid votes and six absentees.

However, only 107 of the 123 parliamentarians actually attended the vote. Nhiek Kim Chhon was voted in as Secretary of State (Deputy Minister), appointed from FUNCINPEC, the coalition

partner of the CPP. The replacement of H.E. Lay Prohas was implemented as a way of addressing some "irregularities" at the ministry, according to Prime Minister Hun Sen, and to enable continued work towards the further development of tourism in Cambodia, a sector which is burgeoning. The Prime Minister told reporters "we want to reform to achieve development and reduce poverty and the tourism sector is expected to contribute to the economic growth in large scale. As head of the government, I have great responsibilities for the fortune of the country, so this reshuffle comes reasonably."

However, details of the decision behind the reshuffle and on the "irregularities" were not given.

Tourism has been growing rapidly over the past few years: in 2006, numbers had grown to 1.7 million, a 20% rise on 2005. The first quarter of 2007 has already seen 500,000 foreign tourists.

Priorities for tourism, according to the new minister, included more improvements to infrastructure, including roads and airports, as well as the passing of a tourism management law at the National Assembly. Thong Kon said that he would also aim to strengthen tourism through enhanced cooperation with the private sector. photo: caexpo.org

Journalist groups: Prime Minister's outburst "not a big concern" In the third brush between authorities and journalists in May, Prime Minister Hun Sen called RFA journalist Keo Nimuol "insolent" after the latter asked whether the recent replacement of H.E. Lay Prohas as Minister for Tourism signified the end of the coalition partnership between the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) and royalist FUNCINPEC. Former Minister Lay Prohas comes from FUNCINPEC and has been replaced by a CPP candidate.

The question was asked outside the National Assembly in Phnom Penh and led to a tirade from the Prime Minister. Sources claim that the words of Hun Sen went as follows: "RFA is always like that. RFA's name, the question, I use one word, go ahead and broadcast it. I am telling you, I have seen RFA's face. Your radio station is insolent, and the one who asks questions is insolent too. You see for yourself; why do you need to ask?

FUNCINPEC's ministers, state se-

cretaries, undersecretaries and deputy prime ministers are here. I am speaking here now so that Cambodian TV stations tell RFA, not only is RFA insolent, even the one who asks questions is insolent." In Cambodian culture, the word "insolent" is much stronger than it is in English. Keo Nimuol expressed regret that those in power blamed the people. He claimed that he had always used the proper title for the Prime Minister.

Despite the reaction of Khmer Journalists for Democracy, opposition party leader Sam Rainsy said that such occurrences were worrying regarding the safety of journalists; NGOs also claimed that the Prime Minister's behavior was indicative of a trend which would lead to stagnant journalism and lack of press freedom. However, Khmer Journalists for Democracy have said that the Prime Minister's outburst is not of great concern.

Hun Sen (front) in a press conference.

Travel Tips Do your little bit and teach children to clear up the cities!

One of the most frequent complaints heard from those who have visited Cambodia concerns the state of the streets and the piles of rubbish. Unfortunately, Cambodia is still developing and there is very little by way of education on public sanitation, and it's difficult for the ailing public services to both modernize and keep pace with a growing population with growing needs for garbage disposal. If it really bugs you to see people throwing rubbish around, especially plastic bags and bottles, don't just boil with rage and do nothing. Be patient, and lead by example: Try to let others, particularly children, see you throwing trash in bins: if you see them throwing their waste on the streets, find a gentle way to show them that it's better not to do this. It's children who will take this message on with them in the future, so they are the best target, but it's also useful to bring

up the subject with the Cambodians you meet or already know, so everyone can work to solve this problem. Maybe one day Phnom Penh's stinky canal will be a thing of the past!

The season changes again ‌ and in comes the rain The end of May and beginning of June see a shift in the seasons: The rains begin. There is no reason to let the rainy season stop you from visiting Cambodia. Indeed, many travelers say that the rainy season is far cooler than the preceding months, and therefore is an easier time to visit. In addition, the rain is FUN! It pours down in huge steaming showers, battering down windows and drenching you in seconds if you happen to get caught in it. It also can produce fabulous storms and sunsets. The daily showers don't last long, and everything picks up where it left off afterwards. If you do get caught, forget about trying to keep dry; you don't have a chance. If you are on a motorbike, drive into the nearest shelter, which usually will be a

petrol station, and you'll have plenty of company. Driving a car in a rainy-season downpour can be dangerous, as cyclists and motorcyclists are not looking out for you as much as they usually would. If you park, make sure it's on high ground: Drains aren't always reliable, so you may find yourself up to your neck in water when you get out of the car!

Child beggars: what should you do?

There have been many changes in Phnom Penh over the past few years, and one troubling change has been a rise in the amount of beggars, particularly children, asking for money from tourists. What to do is an age-old conundrum, and it's important to bear in mind a few things before deciding whether to hand over cash. Although those asking for money might be desperate, poor, disabled and/or homeless, the local begging trade is run by gangsters. This may not be true for every beggar you see, but many of the children asking you for money will be

forced to hand over their take at the end of the day, and they're deprived of everything a normal childhood should entail, including school.. There is also a prevalence of substance abuse, particularly glue sniffing, among child beggars; many ringleaders encourage child addiction to give the bosses more power over their charges. If in doubt, follow the example set by Cambodians: if a local gives money to someone, it is more likely to be a legitimate case of need.

Otherwise, take your money to one of the many NGOs: the chances are that they can do a better job of targeting help than you can.

Flying internationally The war against terrorism has caused some major changes in international travel: 9/11 in the U.S. and 7/7 in the U.K. made the world sit up and make some long-ranging decisions regarding security, and customs and immigration regulations have become stricter. Be ready for the enhanced secutiy by checking the websites that you're flying out of and arriv-

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ing at. Some initial pointers that might help you - leaving Cambodia is not so difficult at the moment; passport control has recently been computerized, and X-ray scanning is not yet complemented by strict regulations. However, keep your documents with you at all times - it is not uncommon to see a passenger's passport held by police for absolutely no reason. If this happens to you, be patient and don't get angry (it won't help). Coming into Cambodia, many countries will now not let you carry over 100ml of liquids (such as moisturizer, toothpaste etc.) Those that they allow, you will have to put in a sealable plastic bag. Again, try not to get angry in the face of intransigence. Be particularly aware of potential problems if you have a baby and need to carry milk supplies - we've heard many tales of woe, particularly from the U.S..

Traffic laws?

The way that traffic accelerates onto roundabouts or into junctions suggests that Cambodia has no traffic laws.

Au contraire! There are laws, and then there are customary practices, both of which must be known by drivers. Here are a few ideas for those driving for the first time in the capital. Turning left does not mean waiting for a gap, crossing the road and turning left. It means turning left immediately, so that you are driving down the curb into oncoming traffic, getting as far as possible and finally crossing when you see a gap.

The far right side is for motorbikes and they don't like cars. When turning right, motorbikes in the far right lane will often be going straight on - try not to let them plough into you. At a crossroads, never give way.

Everyone inches forward into a stalemate, and any space is yours if you get there quick enough, sidewalk included.

Finally, make sure that you never look a traffic adversary in the eye. Wrangling goes on silently, without eye contact. Anything else, and we would all have to admit we were wrong ‌ and then lose face.

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L

Keeping an ancient art alive in a modern world

appeared in Malaysia in 1972 and Vietnam in 1973. In 1963, Ban won the Champagne Championship, sponsored by a French champagne company in Cambodia, and in 1964 he was crowned National Champion of Cambodia in the 54kg weight class.

Ban fought and conquered dozens of worthy opponents

Aaron Malawenski, student

photo: kihmhan peou

Oumry Ban

throughout his career, including famous kick boxers like Chea Sarak, Chhit Sarim, Keo Euy, Chey Bunchhoeur, Chey Bunchhorn and Chey Chan Aun, to name but a few.

Like many others born in Kampong Luong commune in the Ponhea Leu district of Kandal province, Ban experienced the bitter genocidal regime of the Khmer Rouge from 1975 to 1979. In 1979, Ban fled the country and spent 2 years in the Khao E' Dang refugee camp, where he met and married his wife, before making his way to America. In late 1981, Ban arrived as a refugee in Chicago, Illinois and began working as a clerk at the Hotel Palmer House. In 1987, Ban moved once again and opened his Khmer Kickboxing Center on Anaheim Street, in the Cambodian business district of Long Beach, California.

Ban said that he was able to open the Khmer Kickboxing Center thanks to the financial support of his friend Palin Soth, who shares in his love for the sport.

The Khmer Kickboxing Center is open to kickboxing enthusiasts of all ages, and members come from many different backgrounds and nationalities. The center has three trainers, including Ban, Tim Nelson and Ron Smith.

Both Nelson and Smith assist in coaching young, inexperienced and new students.

Nelson said the sport is a source of activity and exercise in addition to what he gets at school. "This sport helps in exercising the whole body through a range of movements," he said.

During Ban's 20 years of coaching in the United States, 15 of his students have won notable titles and championships, including 8 national championships in the United States and 7 international titles from a series of countries including Mexico, Japan, Canada and Australia.

Former student, Sao Soriya, aged 24, is often called upon to assist in coaching students. Soriya said that after 17 years in the club he has developed a keen interest in the sport, and hopes to con-

tribute to its continuation. "I am glad to help train in the club because I want to feel that I am contributing to the Khmer arts," he said.

Ban is currently coaching 60 students including 25 children and 35 adults.

The traditional Khmer boxing match comprises of 5 sets of 3 minutes each, with a one or two minute break between each set.

"At the beginning of each match boxers practice the praying rituals known as the Kun Kru with Cambodian music playing during the match," Ban said. The fights are typically held in a 6.1 meter square boxing ring.

Like European and American style kickboxing matches, Khmer kickboxing can be won by a knockout. Victory may also be obtained by points-during the match each boxer is awarded points based on his effectiveness.

The standard rules of Khmer kickboxing differ greatly from European and American styles since it is appropriate to use more of the body in an attack on the opponent or in defensive mode.

General rules of Khmer kickbox-

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ing provide for the protection of all fighters. Competitors cannot hit opponents while they are on the ground; competitors are not allowed to bite; when an opponent can no longer fight, the referee will stop the fight; competitors may not attack opponents from behind; competitors may not

Mock fighting show during the Khmer New Year 2007 parade in Long Beach, California.

hold onto the ropes; and blows to the genitals are strictly prohibited.

There is still a keen interest among people, both young and old, to learn the ancient art of kickboxing. While there are many forms of kickboxing and other martial arts, the current number of Khmer kickboxing students con-

evening. The club is open from 9:00am to 8:30pm Mon-Fri, and from 10:00am to 1:00pm on Sat. The cost is $50 USD per month for children aged 7 to 14, $80 USD per month for teenagers aged 15 to 18 and $100 USD per month for adults aged 19 to 60.

By Kimhan Peou & Pagnawath Khun ad

weaponless fighting from the Angkor era.

It was these archeological findings that first brought to light evidence of early martial arts development in the Khmer region. The Khmers, however, claim that they invented Khmer boxing and that the art was later stolen by the Thais.

Much of the writing on ancient Khmer martial arts was destroyed or adopted by invading Thai armies during the Angkor era, causing heated debate between the nations about the true origins of Southeast Asian kickboxing.

Oumry Ban began kickboxing in Phnom Penh in 1960 at the age of 16. He trained at the Royal Khmer Kickboxing Center in the Royal Palace from 1961 to 1967, and then began training at the Moha Bopear Club. In 1972, Ban assisted in the establishment of the Neak Poeun Keila Club in Phnom Penh and stayed there until 1972.

Between 1962 and 1975, Ban participated in fighting contests both locally in Phnom Penh and internationally.

He fought 32 times in Thailand in 1972 alone and also

tinues to remain consistent, with hopes of an increase.

Khmer kickboxing remains synonymous with its reputation of being hard work with little reward, yet, for those who dedicate their lives to the practice and preservation of this ancient art there is plenty of contentment and satisfaction.

Ban views the club as more than just a business, and has rejected many offers to buy it from him.

The center holds four daily training sessions - one group in the morning and 3 groups in the photo: pagnawath khun

ONG BEACH, Calif. - When Oumry Ban, aged 63, moved to Long Beach, CA in 1987 to open his kickboxing club, he had no idea that his passion would become a preservation stronghold for the ancient art.

Khmer kickboxing is the traditional national sport of Cambodia.

The sport utilizes kicking, punching and elbow and knee strikes that are similar to the Muay Thai, which dates back to 2000BC in Thailand.

Armed and unarmed martial arts and boxing have been practiced by the Khmers in Southeast Asia since the Angkor era and before.

During this time it was customary for fighters to bind their hands and forearms with strips of horsehide to protect their own skin and to inflict maximum damage to an opponent's face.

The art may have been the fighting system of the ancient Angkor army and is believed to be one of the reasons the Khmer empire was a dominant force in Southeast Asia between 802 AD and 1482 AD. Only recently was it discovered by archaeologists that bare-handed fighting techniques have in fact existed in Southeast Asia for hundreds of years-structures at Angkor Wat, Javaraman VII at Angkor Thom and the Bayon Temple house contain depictions of