Times of Oman - January 1, 2017

SUNDAY

January 1, 2017 2 Rabi Al Thani 1438 AH

HM SENDS GREETINGS

FROM THE WORDS OF HIS MAJESTY THE SULTAN

MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has sent a cable of greetings to field marshal Omar Hassan Ahmad Al Bashir, President of Sudan on his country’s Independence Day anniversary. In his cable, His Majesty the Sultan has expressed his sincere greetings and wishes of good health, happiness and a long life to the president, praying to the Almighty Allah to return this and similar occasion on him and the brotherly Sudanese people with further progress and prosperity. >A3

On the occasion of the 26th National Day, 1996

‘His Majesty’s Wisdom’ We wish to remind the new generation of the high purpose of their forefathers who braved the storms of the violent seas in order to provide us with a wholesome standard of living.

Founded 1975 . Volume 41 No. 255 | 36 Pages . Baisas 200 . Subscription OMR63 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company | Chairman/Editor-in-Chief: Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali | Printed & Published by Muscat Media Group

WHAT DOES THE NEW YEAR HOLD IN STORE FOR A NEW OMAN?

2016 was a tough year for everyone living in Oman.

What do you wish for Oman in 2017? The Times of Oman asked a cross-section of residents for their New Year resolutions for Oman, to make it a happier new year.

Turn to >A4

FOREIGN MINISTRY

Sultanate joins Islamic coalition to fight terror MUSCAT: The Sultanate has decided to join the Islamic coalition to fight terrorism within the context of the common understanding of the Islamic countries, said a statement issued by the Foreign Ministry.

The statement affirmed that the Sultanate’s joining the Islamic coalition to fight terrorism comes within the common understanding of the Islamic countries and in particular the role and leadership of Saudi Arabia. It will help achieve peace, security and stability in the regions dominated by armed terrorist violence.

The statement said that Oman will join hands to ensure a regional environment characterised by security and peace in cooperation with all the parties to achieve this goals. >A6

MORNING MINUTE

The 6,000 years old history of Frankincense

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M I N I S T R Y O F H E A LT H

Hike cigarette tax to cut down on smoking: Official

WILL FUEL PRICES IN OMAN TOP 200 BAISAS IN 2017?

FUEL PRICES

Oman should not roll back subsidies on petroleum products,

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MUSCAT: Cigarettes prices should be doubled in Oman so they remain out of reach for most people, a senior official at the Ministry of Health said.

“A pack of cigarettes, which now costs OMR1, should be made OMR2, or more, so that people will think twice before buying them. And from the extra tax money we can build a hospital every year,” said Dr Jawad Al Lawati, senior consultant and rapporteur for the National Tobacco Control Committee at the Ministry of Health (MoH), speaking to Times of Oman.

Talking about his wishes for 2017, Dr Al Lawati said that tobacco taxes should be increased so cigarettes remain out of reach for most people.

About 14 per cent of Oman’s male population smokes, while

recover, say experts

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0.5 per cent of women smoke.

In September, Oman raised the tax on tobacco products from 20 per cent to 40 per cent, a 100 per cent increase aimed at reducing smoking in the Sultanate.

The cost for cigarettes rose from OMR1 for a pack to OMR1.2.

The tax on tobacco products was raised for the first time in 17 years. >A6

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MUSCAT: It is “logical” that fuel prices will top 200 baisa a litre in 2017 - but we shouldn’t be tempted to re-introduce subsidies, experts say.

Loai B Bataineh, general manager and head of the investment banking group at Oman Arab Bank, said that, logically, prices would cross 200 baisas per litre in 2017 but, at the same time, this does not mean that subsidies should be brought back.

“Winter demand and global deals are pushing up crude prices.

It is expected to reach $60 per

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Staff Reporter

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barrel soon. So, logically, Oman fuel prices will also cross 200 baisas,” Bataineh said.

“However, it doesn’t mean that subsidies should be brought back.

Oman’s economy needs a better crude price to recover, so we should not bring back the subsidy

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soon,” Bataineh said, adding that people have learnt to ration their fuel consumption, and if subsidies were reintroduced it would be the wrong step. According to the International Monetary Fund, Oman’s break-even price for oil should be $75 per barrel. >A6

T E L E C O M M U N I C AT I O N S E RV I C E

TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

OMAN

First female officer to head a police station

Government raises telecom royalty to 12% A E JAMES

1

For the first time in Omani history, the ROP has appointed a senior female police officer to be in charge of a police station. Lieutenant Colonel Shaikha bint Ashour Al Hambasiyah said she was thankful to be chosen for this historic appointment. >A3

REGION

MARKET

29 killed in Baghdad bomb blasts

Omani bourse ends higher by 7% in 2016

2

MSM rose 6.96 per cent, or 376.49 points, to close at 5,782.71 points in the just concluded year, predominantly due to improved confidence following a recovery in crude oil prices. >B1

Two bombs claimed by IS killed 25 people in central Baghdad, as fighting intensified in the city of Mosul where government forces are trying to rout the extremists from their last major stronghold.>A7

Baisas per litre

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businesseditor@timesofoman.com

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BOOSTING REVENUE: The government seeks alternative sources of

revenue, through new levies and increase in existing taxes.

MUSCAT: Oman government has decided to raise royalty paid by telecommunication service providers to 12 per cent of revenues in 2017, from 7 per cent now.

The country’s market watchdog Capital Market Authority (CMA) has received a letter from Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA) about the Council of Minister’s decision to revert royalty percentage on telecommunication operators to 12 per cent.

A severe drop in oil revenue has prompted the government to find alternative sources of revenue,

through new levies and increase in existing taxes.

Although there was a serious discussion on raising telecom royalty in January 2016, the government did not take a decision at that point of time.

The majority state-owned Oman Telecommunications Company (Omantel) in a disclosure statement posted on MSM website said; “If the same increase had been applied for the first nine months of 2016, the effect on net profit would have been a reduction of OMR16 million.” Omantel group’s profit for the first nine months of 2016 grew by 4.8 per cent to OMR95.1 million. >A6

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

THE BRIEFING Region

Lebanese newspaper closes after 42 years Lebanese daily newspaper As Safir printed its final edition on Saturday, forced to close after 42 years because of financial problems as other news outlets in the country face similar difficulties. The front page led with an editorial entitled “The nation without As Safir”.

“The economy is not well, and nor is politics. This cannot but reflect on and impact the press,” the article said. >A7

INDIA

Death toll climbs to 16 in Lalmatia colliery accident in Jharkhand

SPORTS

Broom, Williamson guide New Zealand to series sweep Captain Kane Williamson and Neil Broom both flirted with centuries as New Zealand cruised to an eight-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their third One-day International to complete a 3-0 series sweep at Saxton Oval in Nelson on Saturday. Williamson (95 not out) combined with Broom in a 179-run partnership that was broken when the recalled Broom was caught for 97, as the hosts cruised to 239 for two in 41.2 overs. The visitors had wasted a century opening stand between Tamim Iqbal (59) and Imrul Kayes (44) to reach a below-par 236 for nine in their 50 overs. Jimmy Neesham was 28 not out with Williamson, who eschewed the chance to score his ninth one-day international century in order to wrap up the victory instead. >C1

A brief summary of the top inside stories of different sections of the Times of Oman.

OMAN

Scrabble tournament a treat for participants SPAR Oman Kellogg’s Youth and Open Scrabble Tournament was held at the American British Academy over the weekend, with adults and kids in attendance. >A4

OMAN

Abalone boosts Omani families income

For latest updates and live coverage log in to www.timesofoman.com

Ta’asees initiative targeting Abalone is a sea snail that feeds on algae and seaweed.

Other names for abalone are ear shells, sea ears, and muttonfish, as well as mutton shells in Australia, Ormer in Britain and Perlemoen in South Africa. >A6

WORLD

‘Taiwan will be calm dealing with China’

Taiwan President Tsai Ingwen said on Saturday that Taiwan will be “calm” when dealing with China, but uncertainties in 2017 will test the self-ruled island and its national security team, even as she recommitted to maintaining peace. China is deeply suspicious of Tsai, who it thinks wants to push for the formal independence of Taiwan, a self-governing island Beijing regards as a renegade province. >A11

‘Terrorism is biggest test for Germany’

PAKISTAN

Zardari says country needs his presence in parliament

Treasure Fleet plans to buy stake in NBO

SPORT

Manavi claims two titles at MTTA Open

National Bank of Oman (NBO) on Thursday said it had received a proposal from Treasure Fleet International Pte Ltd to acquire a stake in the bank. The proposal from Treasure Fleet International will be reviewed and discussed by the board of directors. >B3

WORLD With the recovery of five more bodies on Saturday, the death toll climbed to 16 in the coal mine collapse at Lalmatia open cast coal mine of Eastern Coalfields Ltd (ECL), the worst such disaster in over a decade. >A8

BUSINESS

Terrorism is the biggest test facing Germany, Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Saturday in a New Year’s address to the nation, and vowed to introduce laws that improve security after a deadly attack before Christmas in Berlin. Merkel described 2016 as a year that gave many the impression that the world had “turned upside down”. >A12

BUSINESS

Manavi Sarawanan claimed two titles in the Open Table Tennis Tournament organised by Muscat Table Tennis Academy (MTTA) at the Oman Bowling Centre here recently. >C3

SPORT

NYDT overcome OUA Travels, Al Amerat win

Bank credit to private sector grows by 12% Bank credit to the private sector increased by 11.9 per cent to OMR19.7 billion at the end of October 2016, over the same period last year. Of the total credit to the private sector, the household sector, mainly due to personal loans, stood at 46.1 per cent, closely followed by the non-financial corporate sector at 45.7 per cent, financial corporations at 5 per cent and other sectors made up the remaining 3.2 per cent. >B3

National Youth Development Team (NYDT) defeated OUA Travels by two wickets in an Oman Cricket’s A Division match on Friday. Batting first, OUA Travels were all out for 167 in 38.3 overs. In reply, NYDT put on 170 for eight in 35.3 overs. In a B Division match, OCT Al Amerat humbled FAP UTSC in a 120-run victory. >C4

LIFESTYLE

Launching his election campaign in Nawabshah on Friday, Pakistan Peoples Party Co-chairman Asif Zardari said the prevailing political situation in the country required his presence in the National Assembly.

“I have no personal desire of going to the assembly but want to go there to raise my voice against injustices being meted out to the people,” he told Nawabshah’s elected representatives, local PPP leaders and notables at Zardari House. >A9

Healthy replacements in your everyday meal Enjoying your diet is a crucial factor in your eating habits.

The new brands at Fat Fit nutrition store in Muscat provides healthy alternatives.

Healthy eating culture in Oman is growing by the minute and with the rising trend these kind of stores are here to give us that push towards making it to the finish line. Living a healthy lifestyle is an aim many of us wish to accomplish. >A14

Expat craftsmen banned under new rules The initial six-month ban on carpenters, metallurgists, blacksmiths and brickkiln workers began on January 1, 2014.

Staff Reporter MUSCAT: As of January 1, non-Omanis will no longer be issued new visas for employment as carpenters, metallurgists, blacksmiths or in brick-kiln jobs, according to the Ministry of Manpower.

In November 2016, the ministry extended its three-year-old decision to not issue visas for

workers in several professions in the private sector by another six months. Prominent among the categories included visas for construction workers, cleaners, as well as sales and marketing professionals.

The ban on all categories, except carpenters, metallurgists, blacksmiths and brick-kiln workers, came into effect on December 1, 2016.

The first six-month ban on new visas for construction workers and cleaners started in November 2013, while restrictions on sales and marketing professionals, and camel keepers, took effect on December 1, 2013.

The initial six-month ban on carpenters, metallurgists, blacksmiths and brick-kiln workers began on January 1, 2014.

The decisions states that the freeze will apply only to new visas,and not renewals.

The decision will not affect companies registered as excellent or of international grade, consultanciesor those carrying outgovernment projects.

The decision will also not apply to companies that are managed full-time by their owners and registered with Riyada, and insured with the Public Authority for Social Insurance.

MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Police tell motorists to drive safely as fog envelops Barka REJIMON K

reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: As heavy fog has enveloped Barka and surrounding areas, police have warned motorists to drive safely.

In a series of tweets, Royal Oman Police (ROP) has warned motorists to drive safely as the visibility is too low on the roads due to fog.

“Fog has enveloped the road to Sohar. Drive safely,” ROP tweeted.

Meanwhile, a coffee shop owner in Barka said from evening, fog was slowly covering Barka.

“Like Thursday and Friday,

by evening, fog started covering Barka. Driving in such conditions is quite difficult. Many motorists have parked their cars and are waiting for the situation to improve,” Mohammed Iqbal, the coffee shop owner, added.

Since Wednesday, fog in United Arab Emirates had disrupted air traffic too.

Many flights were delayed and diverted to Muscat. On Saturday too, passenger who flew to India were stranded at Dubai airport as flights were delayed due to fog.

“The take off from Muscat itself was delayed. Then after landing, were moved to terminal.

For hours we are waiting to hear from airline’s official about the next flight,” Mohammed Gafoor, a passenger from Muscat, who is stranded in Sharjah airport, told Times of Oman.

“Fog has created a chaos in all the three airports in UAE. What we are told is that all flights are delayed,” Rafeek EK, another stranded passenger, said.

Emirates airlines tweeted on its official twitter handle on Saturday evening that fog is expected at Dubai Airports on January 1, potentially impacting arrivals and departures advising passengers to check for flight status.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

OMAN

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Shaikha is Oman’s first top female police commander Lieutenant Colonel Shaikha bint Ashour

In 2011, I was honoured to be the leader of the Military Police force for the female police in front of the Royal Court. That was the most important event of my life.

I then moved to other positions in the police force, until it was decided that I would be appointed Officer of the Al Wattaya police station, as the first Omani female police officer in such a role. I am thankful and grateful to those in charge for their trust in me and to honour me with such a task

Al Hambasiyah, the new head of the Al Wattayah police station

KHADIJA ALZADJALI

khadija@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: For the first time in Omani history, the Royal Oman Police has appointed a senior female police officer to be in charge of a police department.

Lieutenant Colonel Shaikha bint Ashour Al Hambasiyah, the new head of the Al Wattayah police station, said she was happy and thankful to be chosen for this historic appointment.

When asked how successful women juggle a career and motherhood, Lt-Col Shaikha stated that although being successful is taxing, it is important to learn to balance the two.

“I believe that being successful means hard work. But I do my best to reconcile my work and my fam-

Lt-Col. Shaikha bint Ashour Al Hambasiyah New head of the Al Wattayah police station

ily, so I don’t neglect either one. It is not an easy task, but it takes a mindful and conscious marriage and an understanding family, that takes my work into consideration.

This combination of support has helped me in overcoming the difficulties and obstacles I’ve faced and to achieve my goals,” said

Lt- Col. Shaikha. She also commented on the success of female police officers and the role of Omani women, by saying that Omani women have proven their worth in all professions and have been able to gain promotions to most ranks.

The status of female Omani police officers reflects this stand-

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ard, in which Lt-Col. Shaikha has moved up from an officer to a Lieutenant Colonel. She has also adapted in different job positions, ranging from public safety and investigations, to events and military music. She has become a major participant in the special operations team.

“I joined the Royal Oman Police force in 1990. After my promotion, I worked in the task force of Public Security and Investigation.

Six years later, I was nominated in first place for female officers.

I was then promoted, again, to Head of Events and Administrative Affairs.

“In 2011, I was honoured to be the leader of the Military Police force for the female police in front of the Royal Court. That was the most important event of my life.

I then moved to other positions in the police force, until it was decided that I would be appointed Officer of the Al Wattaya police station, as the first Omani female police officer in such a role. I am thankful and grateful to those in charge for their trust in me and to honour me with such a task,” she noted.

Lt-Col Shaikha’s proudest moment was when she led the police women parade in front of the High Court in 2011. She was honoured to be trusted with such a role, which was also the first in the Sultanate and under the patronage of Top Commander His Majesty Sultan Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

According to Lt- Col. Shaikha, it was a unique experience and difficult, to some extent.

But the will power, determination and confidence of the officials helped to overcome those difficulties.

TRAGEDIES

2 expatriate youth killed in separate accidents Staff Reporter MUSCAT: Two young people lost their lives in separate accidents in Oman on Wednesday night and Thursday evening.

A 16-year-old Indian boy died in a road accident in Sohar on Wednesday night around 9pm.

According to a social worker, Muhammed Rash Ariyat, a Class XI student at Indian School in Sohar was struck by a car while crossing the road. “The accident happened while he was returning, after spending time at a park in Sohar. He was wearing a cap.

While crossing the road, the cap fell off his head. He turned back and kneeled down to pick up the cap. Meanwhile, a vehicle hit him,” Ariyat added. “His body was flown back to India to be buried in his hometown,” said Ariyat.

Meanwhile, on Thursday evening, a Pakistani youngster died in a road crash in Rusayl at around 5pm, a social worker said.

“Saif Bhawany, the victim, was on his way back from Gutech. Near an intersection his car was hit by a truck. He was rushed to hospital but succumbed to his injuries,” Azra Aleem, former board director at Pakistani Social Club, told Times of Oman, quoting the victim’s family.

Saif was alone in the car when the accident happened.

DECEMBER 20 ROAD ACCIDENT

Injured Waheeda to remain in hospital for one more week Times News Service MUSCAT: Waheeda Aurangazeb, a pregnant mother who was injured in a road accident on December 20 in Ruwi, has to remain in hospital for one more week.

“Medics need more time. She has to stay for at least one more week. She is six months pregnant and has suffered injuries to her left pelvis.

Medics need more time to decide on surgery, since she is carrying,” Azra Aleem, former director of the Pakistan Social Club, Oman, told the Times of Oman.

HONOUR

Accreditation for Royal Hospital from Canada Times News Service MUSCAT: The Royal Hospital (RH), along with its services and affiliated National Centres, received the International Accreditation from Accreditation Canada, an organisation that approves standards of excellence in quality care and services of Canadian health institutions and hospitals.

The main objective of the accreditation is to develop systems of delivering high quality services and promote a culture of quality and continuous improvement. The procedures of obtaining accreditation at Royal Hospital included two assessments: an initial assessment in February 2014, and final assessment in November 2016.

The latter covered the evaluation of the policies and procedures of the administrative and medical services. The assessment included a visit by five Canadian experts from 20 to 24 November, for the purpose of assessing the hospital’s compliance.

CUBA

A1 Greetings < FROM

MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has also sent a cable of greetings to President Raul Castro, President of the Council of State and Council of Ministers in the Republic of Cuba on his country’s National Day. In his cable, His Majesty the Sultan has expressed his sincere greetings and wishes to the president and his country’s people.—ONA

Waheeda was returning home with her young family, when she and her baby daughter Shohaiba Aurangazeb were struck by a truck at a busy junction in Ruwi.

Buried on Wednesday Two-year-old Shohaiba died in the accident and was buried on Wednesday.

Waheeda’s husband runs a tailor shop in Wadi Kabir and the family has been resident of Oman for many years. Their home is on Ruwi High Street.

According to the latest update on road accidents released by the

National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), there was a 9.3 per cent increase in the number of expatriates who lost their lives in road accidents during the first 11 months of 2016, compared with the same period last year.

As many as 223 expatriates, 29 of them females, died in road accidents during this period.

The number of Omanis who lost their lives in road accidents fell by 6.7 per cent to 393, which included 62 females.

The number of Omani males who died in road accidents fell by 6 per cent to 331, compared with a

10.1 per cent drop in the number of Omani female deaths.

In contrast, the number of fatalities went up by 6 per cent to 194 among expatriate males, and by 38.1 per cent among expatriate females.

During the same period, the number of traffic injuries declined by 23.1 per cent to 2,604, from 3,388 injuries logged in the same period last year.

The number of Omanis injured in traffic accidents decreased by 24.4 per cent to 1,949, while the number of injured expatriates dropped 19 per cent to 655.

TRAGIC INCIDENT: Waheeda was returning home from Badr Al Sa-

maa, in Ruwi, with Shohaiba, Marwah and Abu (two other children) after visiting her sister-in-law, who had delivered a baby.

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

OMAN

IF OMAN MADE NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS, WHAT WOULD THEY BE? HH Dr Sayyid Adham Al Said Assistant Professor of Economics at the SQU and Managing Partner for The Firm

We expect serious economic challenges in 2017. However, we want to see Oman make serious and sustainable strides in its economic diversification and implementation of the 9th five-year plan. We look forward to serious reforms in the labour market through alignment of attitudes, efforts and initiatives of all stakeholders. We further hope to see some reasonable consolidation of government finances, where space allows for it. More importantly, we want to see the economic challenges foster a genuine entrepreneurial spirit. Such attitudes can be key components in enabling economic diversification and sustainability through adopting new innovative business models.

Indra Mani Pandey Indian ambassador to Oman I wish the people of Oman and the Indian Community in Oman a very Happy New Year 2017, filled with happiness, good health, success and prosperity. I take this opportunity to wish His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said

a long and happy life, and success in all his endeavours towards development, peace and prosperity in Oman and the world. Under the visionary leadership of His Majesty and the guidance of the Governments of Oman and India, the Strategic Partnership between the two countries continued to expand and deepen in 2016. I hope, in 2017, the cooperation between the two countries in various fields will scale new heights. I also hope that people-to-people contacts, through tourism, cultural and educational exchanges, will continue to grow. India is committed to work with Oman towards expanding bilateral cooperation in the areas of mutual interest. I would like to thank the Government and the people of Oman for the cooperation extended to the Embassy of India in Muscat during 2016, in our efforts aimed at strengthening further the historical ties between the two countries. I also thank the Indian community in Oman for their cooperation with the Embassy, and their contribution in the development and progress of Oman, as well as India.

Laila Abdallah Al Aufi Director of International Relations & Organisations, Omani Human Rights Commission As the world becomes more interconnected, it has become

overwhelmed with the irony of uncertainty. The need for cooperation has never been more important and, thus, raises the question of what we can do, rather than what we ought to do. Through curiosity, respect and compassion we can better ourselves in order to better each other. Today, no walls can separate humans and no crisis is independent, in its effect on other parts of the world. Humanitarianism is about caring about the greater good, without sacrificing an equal.

It is a stepping stone and not a stumbling block. By serving humanity, we serve each other.

Dr. Ruth Mabry Public Health Expert, WHO Most people not only want to lead a healthier, happier life, but also know what they need to do. The challenge, usually, is just doing it. So, I would encourage people in Oman to start the year with a new daily habit.

A new habit could be something simple, like going on a walk, writing down three things for which they are grateful, eating an extra vegetable dish, doing something new, or using your own thermos, rather than a disposable cup, for that morning coffee. Always taking

A new year usually means New Year resolutions. This year ‘Times of Oman’ has asked a cross section of people one question: What do you wish for Oman in 2017?

the stairs, keeping reusable bags in the car for that emergency run to the store, or going on a weekly news or social media fast are other options. Chose a habit that’s simple and easy to add to one’s routine, and keep doing it until it becomes part of daily life. Then, maybe, add another habit.

a domino effect, when it comes to the aquatic existence, and the more we pollute and allow pollution, the quicker this beautiful environment is destroyed. Everything is affected by the smallest change and, soon, humans will no longer be able to depend on the sea as a source of food.

May Al Bayat Marketing Director, Dar Al Atta’a

Dr Jawad Al Lawati Senior consultant and rapporteur for the National Tobacco Control Committee, Ministry of Health (MoH)

We are really looking forward to the community’s support in 2017. Dedicating a little time from our busy schedules can change lives for the better.

We suggest that everyone should work a little harder on focusing more on charity this year. Make a promise to help out with the small and realistic things, like donating old clothes and household items, or volunteering at least once a month. Not only will you feel good about yourself, but helping those less fortunate feel good, too.

Aida Al Jabri Marine environment specialist, Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs (MECA) It is crucial that we take more care of marine life, since it is in more danger than ever. There is

“I would like to see better anti-smoking programmes implemented in this country. It’s such a terrible habit to pick up, financially and health wise.

Tobacco taxes should be increased so much that it remains out of reach for most people. A pack of cigarettes which now costs OMR1 should be made OMR2, or more, so that people will think twice before buying. And from the extra tax money, we can build a hospital every year.

Fatma Makki Lawyer Three things we can work on: Practice more compassion. It feels like the world is becoming a scarier place with every passing day. To reverse that, we need to

be more compassionate towards each other. Smile more. Listen better. Help a stranger every once in a while. (2) Give back more to our community. We are incredibly fortunate to live in such a safe and peaceful community, and the best way to show our gratitude is to give back in whatever way we can. (3) Take better care of the environment. Oman is the hidden jewel of the Middle East! Our beaches, wadis and desserts are stunning, and it’s incredibly sad to visit and see these natural beauties marred by litter. If we all worked together to preserve our unique environment, we can leave behind the same beautiful Oman we know and love for generations to come.

Mohammed Ragheb Sheikh, Assistant Manager at OTE This year was one of austerity, and although the Omani government planned various initiatives to improve the condition of the economy and reduce the impact of the situation, there were still places where the impact was felt. I do hope that the New Year brings better beginnings for Oman, I hope that the NOC issue is resolved and foreign businesses entering the country find it easier to operate here. I also wish for greater job security and thank His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said for the wonderful work he has done over the years.

VOCABULARY SKILLS

More than 70 people take part in scrabble tournament Staff Reporter MUSCAT: SPAR Oman Kellogg’s Youth and Open Scrabble Tournament was held at the American British Academy over the weekend, with adults and children in attendance.

Begun by Megel Barker, an expert level Scrabble player in Oman, the tournament had over 70 participants. It was supervised by Karen Richards, organiser of the World Youth Scrabble Championship.

“I had this idea to organise a tournament, and when I approached SPAR and explained to them the vision for scrabble in Oman, they instantly felt it was a good partnership. Karen and Paul from the Royal Scrabble Association were coming to Qatar, so I asked them if they would come to Oman, as well, and they agreed,” said Barker.

“We had many people play for the first time here, but they learnt a lot and made new friends. Here everyone was playing, having fun and there were no phones and computers here. So it showed there was a lot of interest for mind sports in Oman.

“In the long-term, we hope to develop an interschool competition and, hopefully, we will have more competitions coming, along with monthly tournaments for kids and adults, and we will eventually develop a scrabble club.

That’s the vision. We also hope to organise two big events like these in one year, so that this can become world-rated.

“I also thank Times of Oman, who was our media sponsor, and from where most people learned about this tournament,” said Barker.

“I came to know about the competition from my mother.

She took part and came in fourth.

My sister also took part and did well, but I won. It’s my second

time playing Scrabble, though the first time was many years ago.

This was a long day, but it was fun,” said the winner of the teenage category.

Ridhi Singh and Shehrebanoo Bookwala played in the junior’s category.

“We had a lot of fun playing scrabble, although we did get a little tired towards the end, but it was still a great experience and we look forward to more tournaments,” they said.

T IME S O F O MAN

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Photo by Purushothaman K./TIMES OF OMAN

the most important factor. I think they will go up and markets in Oman will become better again.

Also, I expect residents to play an important role in contributing to the progress of the nation” Lamees Daar Executive Director, Environment Society of Oman

Vijay Handa Cluster general manager at Masirah Island Resort and the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve.

Cluster general manager at Masirah Island Resort and the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve.

People should take the New Year initiative to explore Oman and visit places unfamiliar to them. This is a country with lots of historical and cultural surprises that are waiting to be found. Be a tourist in your own country, and enjoy the wonders this country has to offer.

Nizamud Mohiyudheen Civil Engineer “I hope 2017 brings better luck to Oman, than 2016. Oil prices are

ESO believes that protecting and conserving the environment is a responsibility that lies with everyone. This year, we aim to focus on engaging the community to achieve this through our outreach activities and volunteerism opportunities.

Aamir Patel Chartered accountant We all want 2017 to be better. We need to see more innovation in Oman, and move out of the situation of low revenues through that.

After all the initiatives, I guess it should make Oman more prosperous. Let us await and watch.

Maaz Furious Engineering Consultant It’s amazing how things changed in 2016. I hope they change for the better in 2017. More jobs, more contracts and flourishing business. That’s exactly what we need.

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

6,000 years of Frankincense and its link to humans Times News Service MUSCAT: After telling the story of Frankincense through three stunningly rendered online chapters – The Tree and Its Gifts, The Frankincense Trail and The Blessed Dhofar Region – today is featuring its 6,000 year history.

The fourth chapter, 6,000 Years of History, explains to readers how, since its discovery, frankincense has been linked to the human needs. It became a symbol of luxury, associated with prestige and tradition.

Trade gave life to powerful kingdoms in southern Arabia, and its decline also caused the collapse of these societies.

Today, the frankincense trade is a shadow of what it once was, and it is incredible to imagine that centuries ago it was one of the most prized possessions in the ancient world. This stunningly rendered project traces the origins and history of incense, and its uses through the ages.

Frankincense, also called olibanum, is an aromatic resin used in incense and perfume. It is obtained by cutting the tree bark of the genus Boswellia, which grows in Arabia, Africa and South Asia.

The English word frankincense is derived from the Old French “franc encens”, meaning superior incense. Caravan routes were established along the Arabian Peninsula, when Mediterranean civilisations discovered, and fell in love with, its aroma.

Frankincense, also called olibanum, is an aromatic resin used in incense and perfume. It is obtained by cutting the tree bark of the genus Boswellia

Soon, frankincense became even more expensive than gold, and continued to be priced high until petroleum was discovered in Arabia. Many experts agree that the finest frankincense is produced by those species of trees native to Oman.

And we think you’ll agree that the best way to read about the frankincense story is to go online at http://timesofoman.com/extra/oman_land_of_frankincense /index.html

PRIZED POSSESSION: Today, the Frankincense trade is a shadow of what it once was, and it is incredible to imagine that centuries ago it was one of the most prized possessions in the ancient world.

A6

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

OMAN Abalone boosts Omani families income The capture of abalone poses great importance, economically and socially for citizens in the Governorate of Dhofar

MIRBAT: Abalone is a sea snail that feeds on algae and seaweed.

Other names for abalone are ear shells, sea ears, and muttonfish, as well as mutton shells in Australia, Ormer in Britain, Perlemoen in South Africa, and PÄ ua in New Zealand.

Abalone lives while attached to bottom surfaces of rocks and inside oval shells with rough surfaces on the outside. It is a night

creature, active at night and less active during the day, when it hides in burrows and rock crevices to avoid predators.

Abalone tops the list of delicacies on luxurious tables. It belongs to the mollusc category.

All types of abalone belong to one species, called Halitosis, meaning sea ear in Latin. The scientific name of the abalone off the Sultanate’s waters is Halitosis Maria,” a type that is unique to the Sultanate.

Abalone meat is characterised by abundant protein, as well as a combination of vitamins and minerals. It is rich with selenium and magnesium, as well as minerals necessary for the construction of the body, such as calcium, iron, potassium and zinc, in addition to vitamin B12 and vitamin E. The capture of abalone poses great importance, economically and socially, for citizens in the Governorate of Dhofar.

Abalone is also a source of income for many families. The price of one kilo of abalone ranges between OMR30 to OMR70.

90 millimetres, setting a diving season, and the introduction of a system of licences for diving and selling of abalone that are renewed annually, not allowing the use of oxygen cylinders and diving equipment, regulating the use of floodlights underwater, and regulating the flipping of rocks.

Rare marine creature Abalone is a rare marine creature that is found only in Omani waters. Its season is one of the most important fishing periods in the Governorate of Dhofar.

Its presence is confined to beaches between the Wilayat of Mirbat and the Niyabat of Sharbathat in the Wilayat of Shleem and Al Halaniyat Islands, in addition to a small trap in the Niyabat of Souqrah in the Governorate of Al Wusta. There are also other types of abalone in China, Japan, South Africa, Canada, America and Australia.

Divers prepare themselves before the season by running to strengthen the ability of the respiratory system and to open up the lungs. They also practice swimming to strengthen the heart muscle and increase the efficiency of the circulatory system.

Due to the increasing number of divers in past years, some harmful practices arose in fishing for Abalone, which endangered this important source of wealth.

The Ministry of Agriculture and

NUTRITIOUS: Abalone meat is characterised by abundant protein,

as well as a combination of vitamins and minerals.

Fisheries is making great efforts to educate fishermen and divers on the importance of Abalone as a natural resource, as well as on the effects of over-fishing of Abalone and the impact on divers, society and the country, in general.

Arif bin Mohsen Al Yaf’ei, Di-

MINISTRY OF COMMERCE

rector of the Fisheries Development Department in the Wilayat of Mirbat, said the ministry has enacted several legal and administrative controls to regulate and take advantage of this resource, such as determining the legal size to be sold, with a shell not less than

Abalone fishing The ministry annually determines the dates of the diving season for Abalone fishing.

He told Oman News Agency (ONA) that preparations are made before the start of the season by issuing licences for divers and traders.

He pointed out that the number of renewed licences this year in Mirbat totalled about 1,300 along with three licences for processing abalone.

He added that during the season there is a supervisory team set to work to curb the excesses of divers, and another team to educate divers and instruct them on procedures for the season, in a bid to protect this natural wealth. -ONA

I N T E L L E C T UA L P R O P E R T Y D E PA R T M E N T

Labs help in innovation, test product quality Training of Omanis in patents field starts MUSCAT: As the laboratories at the Directorate General for Standards and Metrology (DGSM) play a key role in the economic system, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry attaches great importance to them.

The laboratories also have a great effect in developing knowledge and innovation and meeting needs of various segments of the society.

These laboratories also provide the required protection to traders and suppliers against fraud related to goods imported to the Sultanate or exported abroad. They also help in ensuring customers’ satisfaction.

Rahma bint Dariwsh Al Balushiyah, Head of the General Chemical Laboratory at the DGSM at the Ministry of Com-

QUALITY CHECK: The laboratories also provide the required protection to traders against fraud related to goods imported or exported abroad. – ONA

merce and Industry said that the General Chemical Laboratory seeks to enhance the quality of the national industrial products.

“The Lab inspects and tests

the industrial products and other various materials to ensure that they meet standards and specifications. These tests play a role in enhancing the quality of national

products through providing technical advice to the different factories. The Lab also gives opinion about the Omani and Gulf standards, as well as the methods to test and apply them,” she added.

“Tests are carried out using modern devices, such as the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer, which is being used to test heavy metals. The device shows the concentration of iron, lead, zinc, copper and manganese.

The Lab also uses the turbidity meter, which measures water turbidity levels,” she furthered.

“The Lab maintains cooperation with the DGSM in registering private laboratories in Oman and ensure they meet the requirements of the Regulation for Registering Testing and Calibration Labs,” said Al Balushiyah. -ONA

MUSCAT: Omani examiners are being trained in the field of patents by the Intellectual Property Department in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

This move comes within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry at the Patent Office with the Egyptian Academy of Scientific Research and Technology.

Examine patents Ali bin Hamad Al Ma’amari, Head of the Industrial Property Department said that the training aims to qualify the Omani staff to be able to examine patents in the Sultanate, the exchange of experiences

between the two sides, in addition to training Omani examiners on the formalities review of the patent, the International Patent Classification (IPC) and the patentability examination.

World Intellectual Property He added that the Egyptian Patent Office at the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology, which was chosen, is the only approved Arab office by the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) as an examination and international research office.

He further said that the office has a long experience in this field and has 140 qualified examiners in all areas. -ONA

SUBSIDIES

< FROM

A1 ‘Current fuel price system should continue’ On January 15, 2016, when removing the government fuel subsidy in Oman, the price of super unleaded petrol was increased from 120 baisas to 160 baisas per litre; regular reached 140 baisas per litre from 114 baisas, and diesel rose to 160 baisas per litre, from 146 baisas.

Now, one year later, new fuel prices are hovering around 200 baisas per litre. The new price for M91 is 176 baisas per litre, and for M95 is 186 baisas per litre. The new diesel price is 195 per litre.

“I feel that the government should continue with the current practice on fuel prices until Oman’s economy recovers,” said Samra Al Harthy, economist at the State General Reserve Fund, speaking to Times of Oman.

“Removal of subsidies should

have been done long ago, in good times. I feel that it’s a good thing to let market forces determine prices, rather than being determined by the government,” Al Harthy said, adding that even if global oil prices hits $65 per barrel, Oman will remain below its breakeven price. Recently, Times of Oman reported that people are opting for car sharing to save fuel expenses.

Almost one year after the fuel subsidies were removed in Oman, motorists have become sensible in filling their tanks, as they have to spend some 45 per cent more, compared to what they paid prior to January 15.

Ahmed bin Saif Al Barwani, a Majlis Al Shura member, said that whether the government will freeze prices cannot be predicted.

“The government needs money.

CONSUMPTION

on A1 Tax tobacco < FROM

The higher tax on tobacco was announced after Bahrain raised its tax in January and Saudi Arabia in March 2016. Citing records, officials also said 60 per cent of all deaths in Oman are caused by non-communicable diseases, such as cardio-vascular conditions, including coronary heart disease and cancers.

Earlier, Majlis Al Shura members had requested the government to carry out a proposal prepared by the Ministry of Health to impose taxes on tobacco. “We have to raise prices so that they remain beyond the reach of children,” one of them said, noting that countries that had previously raised taxes on tobacco have been able to significantly reduce the impact of tobacco use.

“We hope that the price of a pack [of cigarettes] will be higher, and rise to a level that can help reduce consumption,” he said.

The comparative prices of a pack of Marlboro Red cigarettes are: Saudi Arabia –SAR12, Oman – OMR1.2, Bahrain–BHD1.3, Qatar – QAR10, UAE – AED10, Kuwait – KWD0.75 - Source: Cost of Living

Fuel prices are decided by a panel set up by the government. They review and revise prices according to market conditions. If they see that it hurts the common man, they may freeze it. But it cannot be predicted now,” the Shura member added.

On Friday, Oman crude was traded at $54.41 per barrel on the Dubai Mercantile Exchange.

Meanwhile, motorists said that fuel prices touching 200 baisas are expected soon.

“It will happen in the first quarter itself. It is going to affect us badly. It is going to shoot inflation up, too,” Sunil Kumar KK, a Muscat-based businessman, said.

Latest inflation figures from the government reveal that transport prices jumped 10.2 per cent from a year earlier, after Oman raised

domestic petrol and diesel prices.

Following the global oil price dip starting in mid-2014, Oman’s budget deficit for the first eight months of 2015 rose to OMR2.68 billion, eventually forcing the country to remove its fuel subsidies. According to the latest government data, Oman’s budget deficit for the first 10 months of 2016 surged by 46.7 per cent to OMR4.81 billion.

This is against a projected deficit of OMR3.3 billion for the entire year, and a deficit of OMR3.26 billion for the January-October period of 2015. Oman has increased its production of regular petrol by 224 per cent during the first 11 months of 2016, raising output to 6.178 million barrels, compared with figures for the same period last year (1.9 million bbl).

R O YA LT Y R E V I S I O N

A1 Ooredoo net profit < FROM

rises 16.4 per cent

Likewise, Omani Qatari Telecommunications Company (Ooredoo) said that if the same increase had been applied for the first nine months of 2016, the effect on net income would have been a reduction of OMR8.7 million or 23.3 per cent.

Ooredoo has achieved a 16.4 per cent growth in net profit at OMR37.6 million for the first

nine months of 2016.

The Muscat Securities Market had suspended trading of both telecom shares on Thursday as the companies could not disclose the decision on royalty revision before the market started trading.

However, both companies have disclosed the information later in the day.

B I L AT E R A L R E L AT I O N S

A1 Written message < FROM

from Sultanate Saudi Deputy Crown Prince, Second Deputy Premier and Minister of Defence, Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud received a written message from Sayyid Badr bin Saud bin Harib Al Busaidi, Minister Responsible for Defence Affairs on

the bilateral relations between the two countries.

The message was handed over

by Sayyid Dr. Ahmed bin Hilal bin Saud Al Busaidi, the Sultanate’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia when the Saudi Deputy Crown Prince received him.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

A7

REGION NORTHERN SINAI

Roadside bomb kills police officer, soldier in Egypt CAIRO: A police officer and a soldier were killed by a roadside bomb in Egypt’s northern Sinai peninsula on Saturday, security sources said.

The bomb was detonated remotely when the victims’ armoured vehicle passed by during a security operation, the sources said.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility, but an insurgency in the Sinai has gained pace since the military toppled president Mohamed Morsi of the Muslim Brotherhood in 2013 following mass protests against him.

DESTROYED: Iraqis look at the aftermath following a double blast in a busy market area in Baghdad’s central Al Sinek neighbourhood on Saturday. – AFP

Blasts kill 29 as Mosul fighting intensifies IS has continued to launch attacks in the heavily fortified capital, even after losing most of the northern and western territory

FLEEING FOR SAFETY: Displaced Iraqi civilians, who fled the IS stronghold of Mosul, walk in the

street of the Intisar district of eastern Mosul, Iraq, on Saturday. – Reuters

it seized in 2014

BAGHDAD/ERBIL: Three bombs killed 29 people in Baghdad on Saturday as fighting intensified in the northern city of Mosul, where Iraqi government forces are trying to rout IS militants from their last major stronghold in the country.

Blasts, including one suicide attack, tore through a busy market in the Sinak neighbourhood, police said. A third blast later in the day killed four people in the eastern New Baghdad district, where a minibus packed with explosives blew up in a busy commercial street, police and medics said.

IS has continued to launch attacks in the heavily fortified capital, even after losing most of the northern and western territory it seized in 2014.

The recapture of Mosul would probably spell the end for IS’s selfstyled territory, but the militants would still be capable of fighting a

guerrilla-style insurgency in Iraq, and plotting or inspiring attacks on the West.

The second phase of a USbacked offensive launched on Thursday following weeks of deadlock has encountered fierce resistance. Conventional US forces deploying more extensively in this phase are now visible very close to the front lines.

The third day of the renewed push saw heavy clashes on the southeastern and northern fronts.

An army officer deployed in the southeast said there was fierce fighting on the edge of Intisar district on Saturday and advances were slowed by heavy machine gun fire, snipers and rockets attacks by militants entrenched in houses.

The officer said IS militants were firing from houses with white flags raised over the roofs, falsely indicating they are civilians to avoid being targeted by Iraqi forces and coalition airstrikes.

“The more we advance the tougher it becomes. The job of differentiating between fake and real houses with civilians inside is becoming more painful to our troops,” he told Reuters by phone.

An elite Interior Ministry unit continued to push on Saturday through the Intisar district, where a US-trained army unit had struggled to advance far after entering the southeast district last month.

Heavy gunfire was audible and attack helicopters fired overhead as hundreds of civilians fled their homes, a Reuters cameraman said. In the north, a separate army unit pressed towards the border of Mosul proper after recapturing several outlying villages in the past two days.

“There is a battle in Argoob area, which is considered the gateway to Hadba,” Lieutenant Colonel Abbas Al Azawi said by phone, referring to a strategic northern neighbourhood.

Since the offensive began on

AFTER 42 YEARS

Lebanese newspaper, hit by financial woes, closes BEIRUT: Lebanese daily newspaper As Safir printed its final edition on Saturday, forced to close after 42 years because of financial problems as other news outlets in the country face similar difficulties.

The front page led with an editorial entitled “The nation without As Safir”. “The economy is not well, and nor is politics. This cannot but reflect on and impact the press,” the article said.

Chief editor Talal Salman earlier in the year blamed the newspaper’s planned closure on falling revenues and Lebanon’s political and sectarian problems, including the absence of a president and functioning state institutions.

Lebanon’s parliament elected President Michel Aoun in October after more than two years without a head of state, and a new government was named this month. Growth in Lebanon’s economy has been sluggish since the collapse of a unity government and the start of the Syrian

SHUT DOWN: People walk past

a stand, displaying the As Safir newspaper, in Beirut’s Hamra neighbourhood on Saturday. – AFP

civil war next door in 2011. Gross domestic product (GDP) grew at only 2 per cent in 2014.

As Safir’s editorial said that despite Lebanon escaping the levels of violence that have plagued much of the region in recent years, the knock-on economic and political effects on the tiny Mediterranean country, which hosts over 1 million Syrian refugees, have taken their toll on its once thriving press. The daily, which is close to the Lebanese group Hezbollah,

was founded in 1974 with the slogan “a voice for those who have no voice”. A cartoon on the front page of its last issue featured a broken pen and the ubiquitous character Handala - the creation of a Palestinian former As Safir cartoonist - a child who bears witness to war and destruction in the Arab world. Other newspapers have also been affected by Lebanon’s economic woes, including daily An Nahar, which is set to cut a large number of staff.

Lebanon’s press union urged the government this week to take steps to strengthen the country’s print media. As Safir said there were discussions with the new information minister for possible funding for the sector worth up to $15 million per year. The government has yet to approve the plan, however. Lebanon has a paralysed political system and sectarian tensions left over from a civil war that ended around 15 years ago. These have increased with Syria’s war. — Reuters

October 17, elite forces have retaken a quarter of Mosul in the biggest ground operation there since the 2003 US-led invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein.

Prime Minister Haider Al Abadi has said the group would be driven out of Iraq by April.

Although the militants are vastly outnumbered, they have embedded themselves among Mosul residents, hindering Iraqi forces who are trying to avoid civilian casualties. Despite food and water shortages, most civilians have stayed in their homes rather than fleeing as had been expected.

One resident reached by phone late on Friday said a rocket had landed on a house in the eastern Mithaq district, killing six members of one family.

“We have not seen Daesh since the Iraqi forces restarted their offensive,” he told Reuters. “We hear the sounds of large car bombs. Today I heard no fewer than 10 huge explosions.” — Reuters

Insurgency The militant group staging the insurgency pledged allegiance to IS in 2014 and adopted the name Sinai Province. It is blamed for killing hundreds of Egyptian soldiers and police since then.

Meanwhile, Egypt began on Saturday handing over to their families the bodies of those who died when EgyptAir flight MS804 crashed into the Mediterranean in May with the loss of 66 passengers and crew, the state news agency MENA reported.

The remains of crew members were handed over on Saturday, with the handover of Egyptian, French and other foreign passengers expected to begin later.

Among those who died when the Airbus A320 went down during its flight from Paris to Cairo were 40 Egyptians and 15 French nationals. Egyptian investigators said earlier this month that traces of explosives had been found on the remains of victims, but French investigators said it was not possible at that stage to draw conclusions about what might have caused the crash. — Reuters

A8

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

INDIA EXPULSION ORDER REVOKED

Patch-up in feud-ridden Samajwadi Party; Akhilesh, Ramgopal back LUCKNOW: After a massive show of strength by Akhilesh Yadav, who was expelled from SP by father Mulayam Singh Yadav, the party supremo on Saturday backed down revoking with immediate effect the expulsion orders of his son and brother Ramgopal.

After hectic confabulations involving Akhilesh Yadav’s warring uncle Shivpal Yadav, Mulayam and the chief minister, Shivpal tweeted that on the SP supremo’s directive, expulsion of Akhilesh and Ramgopal Yadav from Samajwadi Party was being revoked with immediate effect.

“I am coming after having met party chief Mulayam Singh along with Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav. Netaji has given the order that the suspension orders of Akhilesh and Ram Gopal are terminated with immediate effect,” Shivpal said.

“All of us together will fight communal forces and we will once again form a SP government in Uttar Pradesh with full majority.

These are my orders. We will hold discussions within ourselves and decide, and prepare for the upcoming elections,” he said.

“All matters have been solved and we will fight the upcoming polls together. We will all sit togther with Netaji and I am sure all problems will be resolved,” he said.

On a day of fast-paced developments, Akhilesh earlier in the day convened a meeting of SP legislators where over 200 of the 229 party MLAs turned up expressing their loyalty with the chief minister, a day after he was expelled from the party for indulging in “indiscipline”, pushing the ruling party to the precipice of a vertical split.

Some SP MLCs and senior party functionaries loyal to Akhilesh also attended the meeting at the chief minister’s official residence at 5-Kalidas Marg.

Senior SP leader and Uttar Pradesh cabinet minister Azam Khan then arrived at the CM’s res-

idence and after a brief stay, they drove to Mulayam’s bungalow at a stone’s throw distance.

High drama Earlier outside the chief minister’s residence, high drama was witnessed with youth supporters of Akhilesh assembling in large numbers to vent their fury over his expulsion and that of his uncle Ramgopal Yadav.

Akhilesh supporters tried to break the cordon outside the CM’s residence and clashed with police.

Akhilesh loyalists also exchanged blows with supporters of SP state unit chief Shivpal Yadav outside party headquarters in the high security VIP zone where heavy police deployment made the entire place look like a battle zone.

As the embattled Samajwadi Party faced its worst ever crisis, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad sought to bring the warring groups together by speaking to Mulayam to broker

peace. Lalu telephoned Mulayam, who happens to be his relative too, to ensure that the fighting leaders should bury their hatchet in the larger interest of the party.

Mulayam had on Friday expelled his son Akhilesh and Ramgopal from SP for six years after they put up candidates against the official nominees and summoned a party meet tomorrow, pushing the ruling party to the precipice of a split just ahead of the UP Assembly elections likely to be announced any day now.

Mulayam had said he took the action against Akhilesh and Ramgopal to save the party which he had built through hard efforts.

“We have to save the party. The party comes first. That is why we are expelling both Akhilesh and Ramgopal,” he said. He explained that the decision was taken after Ramgopal, in his capacity as general secretary, called an emergency meeting of the party on January 1 and Akhilesh “supported” it. -PTI

SHOW OF STRENGTH: Supporters of Chief Minister Akhielsh Yadav with banners and portraits of him near chief minister’s residence, in Lucknow on Saturday. - PTI

Modi warns of tough action against ‘dishonest’ people Acknowledging that “serious offences” have been committed by some bank and government officials taking advantage of situation, he said “they will not be spared”.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said all concerned in the banks have been told to focus on reducing inconveniences posed by curbs on cash withdrawals since demonetisation

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday set out a stern warning of tough action against the “dishonest” people even as he announced a slew of sops for senior citizens, farmers, rural housing, women and small entrepreneurs to soften the blow of demonetisation.

He also assuaged the honest people that the government will act as a friend to them so that their difficulties are eased. Among the sops announced in his address to the nation at the end of 50-day demonetisation period, Modi said senior citizens will get 8 per cent interest on deposits of upto Rs 750,000 for 10 years and deposit of Rs6,000 into accounts of pregnant and lactating women in rural areas to meet medical expenses.

For farmers, he announced that banks will not charge interest for 60 days on loans taken from district cooperative central bank and primary societies for rabi crop.

For construction or expansion of

ADDRESS TO NATION: Prime Minister Narendra Modi gestures as he addresses the nation on the eve of New Year, in New Delhi on Saturday. - PTI/ TV Grab-Courtesy Doordarshan

Congress’s protest on note ban to go on till January end NEW DELHI: The Congress on Saturday said it will stage month-long protests till the end of January to expose the “government’s biggest scam” demonetisation, which it claimed had brought miseries to the people, damaged the economy and destroyed jobs.

The party would, in three phases, highlight the “failures” of demonetisation, the “biggest scam” in independent

a rural house, 3 per cent interest will be waived on loan of upto Rs 200,000. Announcing two new schemes under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, he said 4 per cent interest subvention on loans upto

India, Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said.

He added that the first phase has already begun and on January 2-3, all the state Congress leaders would go to the district headquarters and “expose the real face of demonetisation”.

On January 3-4, state-level meetings would be called, while on January 6, all the district collectorates would be gheraoed by Congress leaders

Rs 900,000 and 3 per cent on loan upto Rs1.2 million.

“The law will take its course with full force. The government will help the honest and protect them and see their difficulties are

and workers, Surjewala said.

On January 9, the Mahila Congress cadre, along with the workers of the other wings of the party, will stage countrywide protests, the theme of which would be Garib ki jeb khali, bajao thaali, he added.

The first phase of the protests would end on January 10, while the next two phases would be over by January end, Surjewala said. - PTI

eased. How honest will gain from the government. This government is a friend of good people and wants to build on the good environment for the people to return to goodness,” he said.

Cash withdrawals Modi said all concerned in the banks have been told to focus on reducing inconveniences posed by curbs on cash withdrawals since demonetisation. He however did not say when the restrictions on withdrawals will be lifted.

He said banks should also use the opportunity to break from break from traditional lending to prioritise their lending to poor and vulnerable sections.

Prime Minister asked political parties to move away from holier-than-thou attitude and come together to take some steps to ensure transparency and free politics of black money and corruption.

“We cannot allow this fight against black money or corruption to slow down,” he said. He said time has come for a serious debate on breaking the endless cycle of elections and cutting down on administrative expenses by holding Parliamentary and Assembly elections simultaneously.

Modi also announced raising credit guarantees for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and concerting kisan credit card to rupay cards. “We cannot allow this fight against black money or corruption to slow down,” he said.

Hailing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the nation, BJP said the welfare measures announced by him were his way of thanking people for their unstinted support to demonetisation and will help the poor and boost economy. - PTI

WORST DISASTER

Death toll climbs to 16 in Lalmatia colliery accident in Jharkhand GODDA (Jharkhand): With the recovery of five more bodies on Saturday, the death toll climbed to 16 in the coal mine collapse at Lalmatia open cast coal mine of Eastern Coalfields Ltd (ECL), the worst such disaster in over a decade.

R. R. Mishra, officiating Chief Managing Director of ECL, a Coal India subsidiary said, “We have recovered five more bodies today.

We are carrying on the rescue operation in a systematic manner so that the situation does not aggravate as the debris is too much and it should not fall.”

Danger zones have been declared around the place of incidents to restrict the entry of people there.

Moreover, the district commissioner has also stationed police and Central Industrial Security Force officials to restrict entry of people in the danger zone, Mishra said.

“We have also called experts from outside to help us in the rescue operation. We have fully ensured that the rescue operations are done with proper safety measures. We have also come up with Standard Operating Procedures which would help us in proper operations so that there is no loss to lives,” Mishra added.

Heavy machinery was deployed as rescuers, including those from the National Disaster Response Force, toiled through the day on Friday extricating bodies and looking for survivors.

Mishra said the incident occurred at around 7.30pm on Thursday when excavators were working there following which rescue operations was launched immediately.

Senior officials of Director General of Mines Safety (DGMS) have arrived at the site and launched an inquiry. - PTI

BIHAR

Five prisoners escape from Buxar jail, three jail officials suspended BUXAR (Bihar): Five convicts, including four serving life term, escaped from the Buxar Central Jail in eastern Indian state of Bihar late on Friday night by scaling the prison wall, raising questions over security of jails and prompting the administration to suspend three officials.

District Magistrate Raman Kumar said on Saturday that the jailbreak took place between 12 midnight and 3am. Iron rod, pipe and ‘dhoti’ have been found at the spot from where the prisoners scaled the wall, he said.

Superintendent of Police Upendra Sharma said those who escaped included Prajit Singh hailing from Motihari, Girdhari Rai of Chapra, Sonu Pandey and Upendra Sah of Ara, all four serving life imprisonment and Sonu Singh of Brahampur, Buxar, convicted for 10 years.

The DM said that after probing the incident, responsibility would be fixed on the erring jail officials for the jail break. Three jail officials of Buxar prison have been

JAIL BREAK: Policemen look on after five prisoners escaped from

Buxar Central Jail in Buxar on Saturday. - PTI

suspended in connection with the jailbreak.

The suspended officials include Chief Warden Kameshwar Paswan and Upendra Das and Raj Kumar Ram, both wardens, Inspector General of Prison Anand Kishore said in Patna.

Kishore told PTI that a twomember jail department team has

been sent to conduct an on the spot inquiry into the jailbreak.

The probe team comprises Deputy Inspector General of Prison Shivendra Priyadarshi and Director Jail Administration Rajeev Verma, Kishore said. Based on reports of the probe team, action would be initiated against those who found guilty, he said. - PTI

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Central bank sees stable growth during first quarter the first quarter of 2016-17. The increase was expected as inflation had already dipped to ultra-low levels last year and a further push came from supply-side factors including a gradual rise in international prices of some key commodities. For the full year, the CPI inflation was expected to remain within the target of 6 per cent, the report said.

According to the report, large retirement of private-sector credit in the first quarter of Financial Year 2017 was commensurate with the extraordinary off-take in June 2016.

The report also noted that average headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation had increased from 1.7 per cent in the first quarter of 2015-16 to 3.9 per

TAX COLLECTION: State Bank of Pakistan report noted that decline

cent in the first

in non-tax revenues and lower-than-expected tax collection contributed towards the rise in deficit in the first quarter. - Bloomberg file

quarter of 2016-17

KARACHI: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has said that preliminary macroeconomic data for the first quarter of 2016-17 signals a stable growth momentum during the year.

According to the first quarterly report on the state of Pakistan’s

economy released by the SBP on Friday, a strong growth in sugarcane and maize production, improved output of cotton and better supplies of minor crops suggest some recovery in agricultural growth. Acknowledging subdued performance by the large-scale manufacturing (LSM) sector in the first quarter (July-September) of 2016-17, the central bank

expected that growth would gain some pace going forward on the back of supporting policies and encouraging outlook for automobile, sugar, pharmaceutical and construction-related sectors.

The report also noted that average headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation had increased from 1.7 per cent in the first quarter of 2015-16 to 3.9 per cent in

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Historic low interest rates Moreover, a few large corporates remained shy of borrowing despite the historic low interest rates. A positive development, however, was the higher loan demand for fixed investments, particularly for energy-related capital expenditures.

The report highlighted the increase in fiscal and current account deficits in the quarter under review and pointed out that the year-on-year increase was driven primarily by the absence of in-

flows under the Coalition Support Fund. In the case of current account, additional pressure came from a widening trade deficit (with rising imports and declining exports) and a fall in worker remittances – the first such decline in the past 14 quarters.

On the fiscal side, the report noted that decline in non-tax revenues and lower-than-expected tax collection contributed towards the rise in deficit in the first quarter.

However, it appreciated the marginal decline in current expenditures following reduction in subsidies by the government.

Interest payments remained unchanged as the gains realised from low interest rates were largely offset by the accumulation of public debt stock.

Moreover, the report viewed positively the increase of 12.4 per cent year-on-year in development expenditures, especially by provinces that scaled up their infrastructure spending during the quarter.

Finally, the report outlined the role of private businesses for higher growth. - Express Tribune

CONTEST BY-ELECTIONS

Zardari says country needs his presence in parliament HYDERABAD: Launching his election campaign in Nawabshah on Friday, Pakistan Peoples Party Co-chairman Asif Zardari said the prevailing political situation in the country required his presence in the National Assembly.

“I have no personal desire of going to the assembly but want to go there to raise my voice against injustices being meted out to the people,” he told Nawabshah’s elected representatives, local PPP leaders and notables at Zardari House. At the ninth death anniversary of the PPP’s slain chairperson Benazir Bhutto on December 27, Zardari announced he and his son Bilawal Bhutto Zaradari would contest the by-elections for NA seats.

Zardari will contest from the NA-213 constituency in Nawabshah, replacing his sister Azra Fazal Pechuho. Taking credit for laying the foundation of China Pakistan Economic Corridor, Zardari accused the PML-N government of discriminating against Sindh.

“This project was started due to our relentless efforts but the federal government is giving its benefits only to Punjab.” - Express Tribune

PA NA M AG AT E S C A N D A L

Will accept any verdict given by new Supreme Court bench: Imran KARACHI: Hours after Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar constituted a five-judge larger bench to hear the Panamagate case, chairman Pakistan Tehreeke-Insaf (PTI) Imran Khan said he would accept the verdict given by the bench.

“We were confronted with the electoral rigging in 2014 and Panama Papers leaks in 2016 and we can only hope 2017 would not be the same,” he said while addressing a press conference in Karachi on Saturday. Imran added that he

hoped the Panama leaks matter “will be done” in January next year.

“We welcome the formation of a new bench to hear the case and will accept its decision.”

The PTI leader went on to say that he was disappointed with the former chief justice Anwar Zaheer Jamali as the he could have avoided the delay in the hearing but he instead proceeded on vacations.

Earlier on Saturday, CJP Saqib Nisar constituted a five-judge larger bench to hear the Panama Paper case. Regarding Baldia factory fire,

Imran said the case should be tried in the military court so that the witnesses can be provided with due protection.

Responding to another question, he ruled out the possibility of an alliance with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), adding that an honest Inspector General Police (IGP) was removed from his position in Sindh without naming AD Khawaja. The five-judge bench, headed by Justice Asif Saeed Khosa, will hear the high-profile case on January 4 which includes Justice Ejaz Afzal

BID TO STRENGTHEN POLITICAL VOTES

Karachi’s mass transit system — years of unfulfilled promises KARACHI: In the early 60s, Karachi was one of the very few cities in the world to have its own mass transit system – trams – that plied on what is today MA Jinnah Road.

More than 50 years down the line, the city’s inhabitants crave transport. To remedy this, the Sindh government passed the long awaited Sindh Mass Transit Authority (SMTA) bill in 2016.

Another half-a-century old dream that inched closer to fruition in 2016 was the federal government-funded Green Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system that is meant to run from Surjani Town till Tower on a segregated lane. Alongside this is the Orange Line BRT, which will run from Orangi Town till Board Office, where it will join the Green Line track.

There is a hope that the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) may also be revived in 2017 as the federal government has decided to transfer the major share of the Karachi Urban Transport Corporation (KUTC) – which is responsible for the operation of the KCR – and the project has now been included in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

Lack of political will The city’s first mass transit system was developed by the East India Company before independence. Rather than upgrading the system, abrupt decisions, mismanagement and lack of political will, according to urban planners, became the reasons for the system’s suspension soon after the creation of Pakistan, which then led to complete transport anarchy in the city.

Later, Merz Rendel Vatten Pakistan or the ‘Greater Karachi Plan’ was developed for the city in the 1950s, in which mass transit was a key component.

However, this also slipped into oblivion. In 1962, the KCR was initiated but was later abandoned.

Japan International Corporation Agency carried out a study in the city and identified six different corridors for the city’s mass transit system.

TRANSPORT ANARCHY: People shop at roadside stalls as traffic moves along M.A. Jinnah Road in Karachi, Pakistan, on Wednesday, October 31, 2012. More than 50 years down the line, the city’s inhabitants crave transport. - Bloomberg file

However, the government failed to implement the idea.

In Karachi, projects have two speeds – so slow that they take a lifetime to see the light of the day or in such haste that residents must then repent at leisure.

Apparently, the rapid construction of the two BRT Lines – Orange and Green – initiated in 2016 is a bid to strengthen political votes. The officials of the federal government’s Karachi Infrastructure Development Company Limited (KIDCL) who are responsible for the construction of the Green Line in the metropolis have accepted that they need to complete the construction of the Green Line before the 2018 general elections.

Likewise, the Sindh government-funded Orange Line will bolster the Pakistan Peoples Party’s vote bank in Orangi Town.

“These BRT lines are the requirement of 2030,” said former director-general (DG) of the Karachi Mass Transit Cell, Malik Zaheerul Islam.

What is missing, he said, is the operational plan.

“Subsidies will be a huge question,” he said, adding that rather than constructing all the lines so fast, the government should form

a proper policy on how to run these lines effectively in the city and make them sustainable.

Meanwhile, SMTA DG Muhammad Athar has assured that the Sindh government is very much aware of the issues related to the BRT. According to him, the Sindh government will complete the construction of the Orange Line

by June, 2017, but will make it operational alongside the Green Line. Athar said the KIDCL is facilitating them in developing an Integrated Intelligence Transportation System, which is an online public information programme that will also have centralised command and control system and automatic fare collection system for all the BRTs. “For a year or two, the government will have to provide the subsidy,” he said, explaining that later they will self-finance and, for that, they are exploring non-fare revenue. It has yet to be seen how the Sindh government will effectively carry out these mass transit projects with the current political turmoil in the city.

Will these colourful lines also slip into chaos and become casualties of the city’s ongoing political tussle? - Express Tribune

Khan, Justice Gulzar Ahmad, Justice Azmat Saeed Sheikh and Justice Ijaz ul Ahsan. The top court in November took up a slew of petitions seeking Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s disqualification in the wake of Panama Papers, which in April revealed that the PM’s family members had stashed money in offshore companies. The outgoing chief justice Anwar Zaheer Jamali, who was also heading the bench and conducted 10 hearings of the case, adjourned the case till first week of January. - Express Tribune

HOPEFUL: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan hoped the Panama leaks matter “will be done” in January next year. -PTI/AP file

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

WORLD FEBRUARY SUMMIT

ART AND CULTURE

Balinese girls prepare to perform during a New Year celebration in Denpasar, on Indonesia’s resort island of Bali on Saturday. Various form of dances and music have made Bali’s art and culture one of the most diverse in the world. — AFP

Japan seeks trilateral talks with China, South Korea TOKYO: Japan has approached China and South Korea about holding a trilateral summit in Tokyo in February aimed at deepening cooperation on such issues as a free trade deal, the environment and counter-terrorism, Kyodo news agency reported on Saturday.

Disagreements over North Korea and historical issues have long dogged relations between the three Asian powers, though they have held several such trilateral meetings since 2008, most recently in Seoul in 2015.

South Korea is enthusiastic about participating in the proposed Tokyo summit while China has yet to clarify its position, Kyodo said, citing unnamed diplomatic sources. China is unlikely to announce its decision before US President-elect Donald Trump’s policy on Asia becomes more clear, Kyodo said.

If the summit does go ahead, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Korean Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn, in lieu of recently-impeached President Park Geun-hye, are expected to meet around February 10, Kyodo added.

Japan and South Korea said earlier this month they would impose new unilateral sanctions on North Korea over its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes, but China has expressed its opposition to such measures. — Reuters

ZERO TOLERANCE

No space for Hong Kong independence, says China BEIJING: There is no space for Hong Kong independence in the “one country, two systems” agreement under which Beijing governs the former British colony, but there can be tolerance for differences in their systems, a senior Chinese official said.

Chinese leaders are increasingly concerned about a fledgling independence movement in Hong Kong, which returned to mainland rule in 1997 with a promise of autonomy known as “one country, two systems”, and recent protests in the city.

Inseparable The head of China’s Hong Kong Macau Affairs Office, Wang Guangya, told pro-Beijing Hong Kong magazine The Bauhinia that “under ‘one country, two systems’ there is absolutely no space for ‘Hong Kong independence’”, in comments carried in the ruling Communist Party’s People’s Daily on Saturday.

“Hong Kong is an inseparable part of the country, and in no situation is ‘Hong Kong independence’ allowed. This is a bottom line that cannot be touched in ‘one country, two systems’,” Wang said.

As “one country, two systems” is new, it has no ready-made experience to draw from, and it’s normal that in this process “new situations, new problems and new challenges” will arise, he added. “You can’t expect it to be all plain sailing,” Wang said. — Reuters

Taiwan will be calm when dealing with China: Tsai China is deeply suspicious of Tsai, who it thinks wants to push for the formal independence of Taiwan, a selfgoverning island that Beijing regards as a renegade province

TAIPEI: Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said on Saturday that Taiwan will be “calm” when dealing with China, but uncertainties in 2017 will test the self-ruled island and its national security team, even as she recommitted to maintaining peace.

China is deeply suspicious of Tsai, who it thinks wants to push for the formal independence of Taiwan, a self-governing island that Beijing regards as a renegade province.

Speaking at a year end news conference, Tsai said Taiwan was “a sovereign, independent nation”, repeating her government’s regular mantra, which was open to

ALL SET FOR BRIEFING: President Tsai Ing-wen, right, and Vice President Chen Chien-jen look through name cards of journalists attending an international press conference at the presidential office, on Saturday, in Taipei, Taiwan. – AFP

fresh talks with China, but added that recent developments had not helped China-Taiwan ties.

“Faced with some uncertainty, we will maintain peace and stability, while trying to find new possibilities,” Tsai said. “This will test the resilience of all of our national security team and the overall government.”

US President-elect Donald Trump angered China this month when he spoke to Tsai in a break

with decades of precedent and cast doubt on his incoming administration’s commitment to Beijing’s “one China” policy.

China’s military has become alarmed by what it sees as Trump’s support of Taiwan and is considering strong measures to prevent the island from moving toward independence, sources with ties to senior military officers said.

Relations between China and Taiwan have worsened since

Tsai, who heads the ruling proindependence Democratic Progressive Party, was elected president in January, even as she has pledged to maintain peace with China.

Beijing wants Tsai to concede to its “one China” principle, that Taiwan is a part of China, but seven months since she took office in May, Tsai has not done so.

Beijing suspended official communication channels with

Taipei in June and this month re-established ties with small African state Sao Tome five days after it broke diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

China also sailed a group of Chinese warships, led by its sole aircraft carrier, around the island in exercises it called routine.

“Some things have happened between (Taiwan and China) or this region. Even though we have felt it, we will calmly face them,” Tsai said. She said both sides should be flexible and that there was room to talk with China.

Taiwan’s pledge to maintain peace and stability has not changed and its goodwill toward China has not changed, she said, adding that Taiwan will not be pressured. “Cross-strait relations are certainly a challenge for the people of Taiwan and for this country,” she said “But don’t forget that we are a sovereign, independent nation and this is a recognition by the collective (in Taiwan),” Tsai said.

Defeated Nationalist forces fled to Taiwan in 1949 at the end of a Chinese civil war and Beijing has never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control.

Further drama looms with Tsai’s transit through the United States next month for a Latin America trip. China has called on the United States to block the transits. Tsai said the transit was unofficial, and speculation about it “excessive”. — Reuters

CORRUPTION SCANDAL

South Korea court issues arrest warrant for pension chief SEOUL: A South Korean court issued an arrest warrant on Saturday for the head of the national pension fund, the world’s third largest, in a corruption scandal that has led to President Park Geun-hye’s impeachment, an official said.

A special prosecutor probing the wide-reaching scandal has sought the arrest of the National Pension Service (NPS) Chairman Moon Hyung-pyo on charges of abuse of power and perjury.

PROTEST CONTINUES: Candlelights are lit up during a protest

demanding South Korean President Park Geun-hye’s resignation in Seoul, South Korea, on Saturday. The lettering reads ‘Step down Park Geun-hye immediately’. – Reuters

Evidence The Seoul Central District Court issued the warrant saying evidence supported the charges against Moon, an official at the court said, but did not provide further details.

The special prosecutor’s office said on Thursday Moon had acknowledged that he had pressured

the fund to approve an $8 billion merger between two Samsung Group units last year while he was Health and Welfare Minister.

He denied during a parliamentary hearing in November that he had exerted pressure on the NPS, which is run by the ministry, to back the merger.

His lawyer in a court hearing on Friday about the warrant again denied Moon had presured the NPS, local media reported.

The merger last year of Samsung Group affiliates Cheil Industries Inc and Samsung C&T Corp has become central to the investigation of the scandal that led parliament to vote this month to impeach Park.

The merger has been criticised by some investors for strengthening the founding family’s control

of Samsung Group, South Korea’s largest “chaebol”, or conglomerate, at the expense of other shareholders. The NPS, which had 545 trillion won ($451.78 billion) under management at the end of September and was a major shareholder in the two Samsung affiliates, voted in favour of the merger without calling in an external committee that sometimes advises it on difficult votes.

Probe The special prosecutor’s office is probing whether Samsung’s support for a business and foundations backed by the president’s friend, Choi Soon-sil, at the centre of the corruption scandal, may have been connected to the NPS support for the merger.

Park, 64, is accused of colluding

with Choi to pressure big businesses to make contributions to non-profit foundations backing presidential initiatives.

She has denied wrongdoing but apologised for carelessness in her ties with Choi, a friend for four decades, who has also denied wrongdoing. Choi is in detention while on trial.

Park’s impeachment is being reviewed by the Constitutional Court, which has 180 days from the December 9 parliament impeachment vote, to uphold or overturn it and reinstate the leader.

A large crowd gathered in central Seoul for a 10th consecutive weekend rally to demand that Park step down immediately. They listened to speeches and music ahead of a march towards the presidential Blue House. — Reuters

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

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NEW YEAR SPEECH

NEW YEAR FIREWORKS

Thailand King urges unity

New Year fireworks illuminate the sky over the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge in Sydney. — AFP

BANGKOK: Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn called for unity in his first New Year address since taking over from his late father, who was widely seen as a unifying force during decades of turbulence.

Any appearance by the new king is closely watched and the pre-recorded address was only the second time he has spoken to the public since taking the throne on December 1 after the death of his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

The new king has yet to command the popularity that his father enjoyed and has spent much of his adult life abroad. “No matter what problems we may face in our country, we believe that if we work together we can overcome and alleviate any situation,” said the king in the broadcast on Saturday evening.

He thanked the public for their show of loyalty towards his father, still widely mourned after a rule that spanned seven decades. The usual New Year firework displays in Bangkok have been cancelled this year out of respect for the mourning period. In the coming weeks, King Vajiralongkorn is expected to endorse a constitution drafted by the military government to start the process of restoring democracy.

The military toppled an elected government in 2014 and enforced political calm in a country divided by more than a decade of conflict between a military-backed royalist establishment and populist political forces. — Reuters I N T O X I C AT E D P I L O T

Indonesia authorities warns airline JAKARTA: Indonesian authorities have issued a warning to airline PT Citilink Indonesia after videos circulated appearing to show an intoxicated pilot from the low-cost carrier going through security and then sounding incoherent on the aircraft’s public address system.

Citilink, which is a unit of national carrier PT Garuda Indonesia, said that the company had fired the pilot after a December 28 incident at Surabaya airport ahead of a flight to Jakarta and that two executives had offered to resign.

The pilot was replaced before the flight proceeded, according to a company statement.

Fary Djemi Francis, who heads a parliamentary commission overseeing transportation, said that the airline had been asked to investigate whether the pilot had been on drugs. “Second, we also ask Citilink’s management to sanction the pilot who went on board the aircraft without going through the briefing room, missing checks on his fitness to fly,” Francis said.

The transportation ministry had sent a warning letter to Citilink and called for an internal investigation after finding that health checks and other procedures had not been followed according to regulations, said ministry spokesman Bambang S Ervan.

Citilink did not name the pilot but said in a statement that it had fired him after he had “ignored the flight safety and security procedures which could potentially endanger the security and safety of passengers and other crew members.” — Reuters

Ceasefire ‘void’ if violations continue, say Syria rebels Clashes and air strikes have persisted in some areas since the ceasefire began on Friday

BEIRUT: Syrian rebel groups said on Saturday they would consider a ceasefire deal brokered by Russia and Turkey “null and void” if the Damascus government’s forces and their allies continued to violate it.

Russia, which supports Syrian President Bashar Al Assad, has urged the United Nations to give its blessing to the fragile ceasefire, the third truce this year seeking to end nearly six years of war in Syria. Clashes and air strikes have persisted in some areas since the ceasefire began on Friday, though the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a monitoring group, said on Saturday the truce was still largely holding.

“Continued violations by the regime and bombardment and attempts to attack areas under the control of the revolutionary factions will make the agreement null and void,” a statement signed by a number of rebel groups said.

The statement said government

DEVASTATED: Syrians walk past a destroyed building in the rebel-held town of Douma, on the eastern outskirts of Damascus, on Friday,

on the first day of a nationwide truce. – AFP

forces and their allies including Lebanese Hezbollah had been trying to press advances, particularly in an area northwest of Damascus in the rebel-held Wadi Barada valley. The Observatory, which is based in Britain, said government forces and the rebels had clashed on Saturday in Wadi Barada.

Rebels say the army is seeking to recapture the area, where a major spring provides most of Damascus’s water supplies. Sev-

eral people were killed in violence there on Friday, the Observatory said.

Blasts from government shellfire were also heard in the southern provinces of Quneitra and Deraa, the Observatory said.

Each side blames the other for continued unrest. Russia’s defence ministry said on Friday rebels had violated the truce 12 times in 24 hours.

Russia and Turkey, which backs

the armed opposition to Assad, brokered the ceasefire agreement in the hope of preparing the way for peace talks in Kazakhstan in the new year.

In their statement, the rebels said it appeared the government and the opposition had signed two different versions of the ceasefire deal, one of which was missing “a number of key and essential points that are non-negotiable”, but did not say what those were.

There has been confusion over which groups in the opposition are included in the ceasefire. IS, which has made enemies of all sides in the conflict, is not included. The Syrian army said on Thursday the militant group formerly known as the Nusra Front was not part of the truce. However, several rebel officials said the group, which has been renamed Jabhat Fateh Al Sham, was also included in the ceasefire deal. — Reuters

DEAL REACHED

Congolese president to step down after 2017 elections a major sticking point in the final stages of the talks. Neither Kabila nor the country’s leading opposition leader, Etienne Tshisekedi, are expected to sign the deal, raising concerns about whether it will be respected.

KINSHASA: Congolese President Joseph Kabila will step down after elections to be held by the end of 2017 under a last-minute deal struck by political parties late on Friday, the lead mediator of the talks said.

Negotiators spent weeks in tense talks seeking to ensure Democratic Republic of Congo’s first peaceful transfer of power since independence in 1960. But it remains unclear if elections can be organised by the end of next year, or if leading politicians, including Kabila, will keep to the terms.

PEACEFUL TRANSFER OF POWER: Congolese President Joseph Kabila, centre, sitting during a special joint session of parliament in Kinshasa, in this file photo taken on November 15, 2016. – AFP FIle

Talks “The government is asked to take all steps so that the elections are organised by the end of 2017 at the latest,” said Marcel Utembi, president of Congo’s Catholic Bishops’

Conference, which has mediated the talks. Under the deal, which is expected to be formally signed on Saturday, Kabila will be unable to change the constitution to allow

him to stay in power for a third term. Kabila’s mandate ran out on December 19, but authorities have effectively extended it until 2018 because the government said it

could not arrange elections before then. The parties agreed that Kabila will appoint a prime minister from the country’s main opposition bloc to oversee the transition,

Feasibility Spokesmen for the government and Kabila’s ruling coalition were not available for immediate comment. Election experts also question the feasibility of organising presidential, legislative and provincial assembly elections together by the end of 2017.

“If the accord calls for organising the three elections together, it (shows) a common will to not organise good elections, or at least to not organise them within the planned timeframe,” Sylvain

Lumu, a lawyer and election expert, told Reuters shortly before Utembi’s announcement.

Kabila’s extension of his rule has sparked bloody confrontations.

Security forces killed around 40 people last week protesting over the tenure of a leader who came to power in 2001 following his father Laurent’s assassination.

Western and African powers feared the current impasse could lead to a repeat of conflicts seen between 1996 and 2003 in eastern Congo in which millions died, mostly from starvation and disease. A successful deal, however, is seen offering a boost to pro-democracy activists in other African countries and help buck a trend in which presidents have changed constitutions to stand for third terms. — Reuters

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

WORLD HOUSE ARREST

52nd ANNIVERSARY

A Palestinian woman holds a flame lit during a celebration marking the fifty-second anniversary of the creation of the Fatah movement in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah on Saturday. — AFP

Venezuela ex-opposition governor released CARACAS: Venezuelan authorities on Saturday released former opposition governor and presidential candidate Manuel Rosales from house arrest and freed five lesser-known anti-government activists from prison, Rosales said via Twitter.

Rosales was jailed in 2015 upon his return to Venezuela from Peru, where he fled six years earlier after being charged with illicit enrichment by the government of late socialist leader Hugo Chavez. He was granted house arrest in October.

“I inform the people of Venezuela that I have been freed along with other political prisoners,” Rosales wrote. “We continue fighting for the release of all the political prisoners and the return of those in exile.”

Five other activists were released from prison on the condition that they not leave the country and appear periodically in court, according to lawyer Gonzalo Himiob of rights group Penal Forum.

They had been arrested in 2014, when the opposition led a wave of protests pressing for President Nicolas Maduro’s resignation.

Venezuela’s Information Ministry did not answer phone calls seeking comment. — Reuters

INDONESIA

Wedding vows a blessing for cleaning clogged river JAKARTA: Only a year ago, this stretch of the Ciliwung river in Indonesia’s capital was foul-smelling and clogged by a thick layer of floating plastic and other trash.

Now, after a clean-up involving hundreds of volunteers, the river hosted a wedding ceremony for a young couple who grew up on its banks in a bid to inspire others to help preserve Indonesia’s fragile environment. “We have shown our love for our language, culture, now we should start to show our love for the environment,” said the groom, Novanto Rahman. His bride, Sandra Fidelia Novianti, is a volunteer for the Depok Ciliwung Community that launched the clean-up with the local government in 2015. The couple made their wedding vows on an inflatable boat decorated with flowers that was paddled down the Ciliwung on December 18, something that previously would have been impossible due to the piles of trash in the water.

The Ciliwung, which runs more than 100km (60 miles) from its source in West Java to Jakarta bay, has played an important role in the livelihood of the city since the 17th century. Despite the dire water quality, poorer communities living by the river have used its water to wash clothes and shower. — Reuters

Terrorism is biggest test for Germany, says Merkel Merkel described 2016 as a year that gave many the impression that the world had ‘turned upside down’

BERLIN: Terrorism is the biggest test facing Germany, Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Saturday in a New Year’s address to the nation, and vowed to introduce laws that improve security after a deadly attack before Christmas in Berlin.

Merkel, seeking a fourth term as chancellor in 2017, described 2016 as a year that gave many the impression that the world had “turned upside down”. She urged Germans to shun populism and said Germany should take a leading role in addressing the many challenges facing the European Union. “Many attach to 2016 the feeling that the world had turned upside down or that what for long

PLEDGING FOP STRICT LAWS: German Chancellor Angela Merkel poses for photographs after the

television recording of her annual New Year’s speech at the chancellery in Berlin, on Friday. – AP/PTI

had been held as an achievement is now being questioned. The European Union for example,” Merkel said.

“Or equally parliamentary democracy, which allegedly is not caring for the interests of the citizens but is only serving the interests of a few. What a distortion,”

she said in a veiled reference to claims by the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) that is stealing votes from her conservatives. Ahead of the 2017 election, polls put her conservative bloc well ahead of rivals but a fractured electoral landscape risks complicating the coalition arithmetic.

“Election year 2017: For Merkel, nothing is certain any more”, ran a headline in Saturday’s edition of mass-selling daily Bild.

The paper wrote that for an increasing number of voters the chancellor, 62, no longer appeared unassailable.

Liberals across the Atlantic

have hailed Merkel as an anchor of stability and reason in a year that saw Donald Trump elected as US president, Britain vote to leave the EU and US-Russia relations deteriorate to Cold War levels.

In her address, Merkel compared Brexit to a “deep incision” and said that even though the EU was “slow and arduous”, its member states should focus on common interests that transcend national benefits.

“And, yes, Europe should focus on what can really be better than the national state,” Merkel said.

“But we Germans should never be led to believe that each could have a better future by going it alone.”

She was alluding again to the populist AfD, which wants Germany to leave the EU and shut its borders to asylum seekers, more than one million of whom arrived in the country this year and last.

The record number of migrants has hurt Merkel’s popularity and fuelled support for the AfD, which says is incompatible with the German constitution.

But her conservatives are still expected to win the general election in nine months. Merkel has made security the main election platform for her Christian Democrats (CDU). — Reuters

EXTRAORDINARY ACTION

Italy to track down, deport migrants with no right to stay ROME: Italy will seek to deport more migrants who have no right to be in the country and will open new detention centres to hold them before their expulsion, according to a written directive and a ministry source.

Police chief Franco Gabrielli sent a two-page directive to stations across the country on Friday ordering them to increase efforts to identify and deport migrants a week after Berlin Christmas market attacker Anis Amri was shot dead near Milan.

The directive, seen by Reuters, says police should take “extraordinary action” before the “growing migratory pressure in an international context marked by instability and threats” to “control and remove irregular foreigners.”

Detention centres Interior Minister Marco Minniti plans to open several new detention centres that hold migrants prior to their expulsion, a ministry source said, in line with repeated requests by European Union partners.

The tougher migrant stance, which several Italian papers ran

print migrants who arrived on Italian shores, but he refused to build large detention centres to hold migrants who did not qualify refugee status.

RESCUE: Michele Angioni, 28, an Italian sailor, left, and Spaniard Santi Fuster Foz, 53 with Spanish NGO Proactiva Open Arms, secure ropes towing inflatables on the stern of the former fishing trawler Golfo Azzurro during a search and rescue operation for migrants in the central Mediterranean Sea on Saturday. – Reuters

on their front pages on Saturday, is the first major policy change made by Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni’s government since it took power in mid-December, and

comes on the heels of a record year of boat migrant arrivals.

It also comes less than a month after the Berlin truck attack by Amri that killed 12, in-

cluding an Italian woman.

The Tunisian Amri came to Italy by boat in 2011. Italy later tried without success to deport him back to Tunisia. He was then

released from a detention centre and ordered to leave the country in 2015. Gentiloni’s predecessor, Matteo Renzi, agreed to set up “hotspots” to identify and finger-

Pre-deportation Only four pre-deportation detention centres with about 360 beds are now functioning. The Interior Ministry is aiming to open up about 16 more with at least 1,000 more spots, the source said. That would still accommodate only a fraction of migrants without permits of stay estimated to be living in Italy.

Of the more than 27,000 expulsion orders handed out in Italy in 2015, fewer than 5,000 were deported, according to Eurostat figures.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has also called for greater efforts to deport those who do not qualify for international protection, but the process is slow and expensive, and it requires bilateral agreements with the countries of origin.

Italy currently has bilateral agreements with only a handful of African countries. — Reuters

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

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TIMESOFOMAN.COM/TIMESTV A Ministry of Health senior official said that hiring a housemaid could be bad for your health.

Mohammed Mahfoodh Al Ardhi

E Imagine that you are a farmer. Your crops are withering as weather patterns become more volatile, your well water is too salty to drink, and rice is too expensive to buy at the market. So, you leave home in search of a better life. Millions of people in vulnerable communities around the world do not have to imagine such a scenario.

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READERS’ FORUM Women should exercise by doing work at home This refers to the report, Hiring maids bad for health, says official, (December 28). I agree with the views of the ministry official that physical inactivity at home has caused a lot of health concerns. The absence of exercise and physical exertion is common in every home as the new lifestyle changes demand less physical use. Apart from the deskbound jobs at work, entertainment activities at home have also become sedentary. People spend time on the Internet and electronic gadgets for pleasure instead of open air acScan this QR code tivities for the same. Sedentary life at both to send letters to the office and home is unhealthy and one beReaders’ Forum, comes prone to lifestyle diseases. Earlier, containing not more than 200 words with unemployed women used to do all types of full name, address household activities, which gave them enand telephone ough exercise so the lifestyle diseases were number, may be sent rare among them. Now working women, by e-mail (akhtar@ timesofoman.com). who are indeed exhausted from their jobs, do not do any work at home where they depend on housemaids for all domestic jobs.

Since majority of women here do sedentary jobs, they should strive to get exercise by doing cleaning, cooking and gardening at home. Besides the physical benefits it gives, doing different activities for family at home will give a solace from all the stresses from the day long job at work. — P. A. Jacob, Muscat

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Tanfeedh: The living, breathing programme

CARMEN REINHART

Only a small group of central banks refrain from intervening in the foreign-exchange market to stabilize their currencies’ exchange rate or coax it in the desired direction. Even when they do not intervene directly, their interest-rate policies are often formulated to be compatible with exchange-rate objectives.

conomic programmes are never static – to stay truly relevant, they must evolve according to their context. Often, they need to expand and accommodate new areas and ideas, originating from experience. In other instances, they may have to eliminate certain aspects that do not serve the community as intended.

Perceiving Tanfeedh – Oman’s national economic diversification plan launched in 2016 – as a rigid, unchangeable programme could lead to a dead end and counterintuitively obstruct our efforts when time is of the essence.

We need to treat Tanfeedh as a living, breathing being – a newborn that needs care and nurturing until it matures. And in order for the programme to reach its potential, we have to monitor, examine, and analyse each of its phases at the time of implementation. In accordance with our observations, the next phase should then organically expand on the outcome of the preceding phase while laying down the foundations for the following phase.

Feedback should be methodical, constructive, and based on solid facts, rather than on wishful thinking that tends to focus on highlighting achievements and often fails to point out weaknesses.

As someone who has closely followed the programme from the early stages, I will outline my observations here in the hope that they will contribute to its sustained success.

First, in the case of transformative industries, we must rely on national resources for raw materials, human capital, and scientific research as much as possible. The Tanfeedh programme is an excellent opportunity to develop national talent and expertise, and to optimally utilise natural resources available in Oman. Our people are our greatest asset - with over 40 per cent of our population between the ages of 25 and 54, we must work to ensure an empowered workforce that will drive our industries in the years to come. To support this process we must nurture an environment that encourages active participation and innovation from all stakeholders of society. Such an environment will facilitate the sustained flow of ideas and their prudent application across different walks of life. With the right focus we will surely succeed in shaping a knowledge-based economy in Oman.

It is of utmost importance that the country nationalises its industry to the greatest possible extent. However, rather than forgoing foreign ex-

pertise altogether, we should strike up active collaboration with foreign entities within the context of Omanisation. We should seek strong, sustainable partnerships that yield optimum benefits for both sides through targeted campaigns to attract established global players with extensive industry expertise and a keen interest in our region.

Second, with regard to transformative industries, we must consider the needs of the Omani and wider GCC markets first even while emphasising the importance of competing on a global scale. Today, the globalisation of products has ensured the quality of the production process. The stagnation in markets worldwide following the last global financial crisis, has allowed new sources of essential commodities to emerge. The recession has also changed the international economic and created new economic hubs in Europe, Latin America, and Asia that have the potential to become global leaders. Developing trade and communication networks between Oman and these key markets will bring us closer to a new and more prosperous economic future. Third, food security is a great international concern. Scarcity of food sources as a result of droughts and climate change, may serve as triggers for crises and conflicts, instead of only acting as hidden threats.

Given these challenges, it is necessary to carefully plan foreign investments while considering the deficits the Omani market may face.

Many countries in Latin America, Asia, and Africa are ready for partnerships in agriculture and livestock production.

Although Oman has more fertile soil than its neighbours, while looking ahead, we must take into account increasing production demands in line with growing population.

Fourth, it is imperative to organically link the financial sector to the development industries targeted by Tanfeedh.

The author is the Chairman of National Bank of Oman, Executive Chairman of Investcorp and an International Advisor to the Brookings Instituition.

All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not reflect those of Times of Oman.

CLIPPINGS FROM OUR ARCHIVES DECEMBER 2001 SAF holds environment seminar MUSCAT: As part of the Sultan’s Armed Forces keenness on preserving the environment and supporting ways to combat pollution in order to safeguard the human and economic development, the environment committee at SAF organised a seminar comprising several awareness lectures to mark Environment Year 2001. Six papers were presented highlighting the efforts of SAF and the Ministry of Regional Municipalities, Environment and Water Resources in maintaining environmental security and spreading environment awareness.

TODAY IN HISTORY INVITATION TO WRITERS We invite our readers to write articles on topics related to Oman. The articles should not exceed 800 words.

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PICTOGRAPH

ELECTRICITY GROSS PRODUCTION AL DAKHLIYAH (in Gigawatt/hour) 2016 August

September

136.8

130.1

1907: The Pure Food and Drug Act becomes law in the United States.

1915: The German submarine U-24 sinks the British battleship Formidable in the English Channel.

1986: As the United States builds its strength in the Mediterranean, Libyan leader Muammar Al Qaddafi threatens to retaliate if attacked.

0 Source National Centre for Statistics & Information

A 14

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

LIFESTYLE WELLNESS

Fat to Fit

y aph r g o t Pho Afifi d n Al ya Stor Salim

P

owdered sips for breakfast in the 1970s, healthy shakes for athletes and gym-goers in the 1980s, weight management plans in the 2000s, and a decade later, nutritionbalanced snacks for everyone. Living a healthy lifestyle is an aim many of us wish to accomplish. It is becoming sort of a trend in this generation, though the struggle to commit to it might put some people off due to the bland taste of socalled healthy food. It restricts us from having our favourite condiments, dips, and snacks such as chocolates and chips.

Eating vegetables is not enough for those who are foodies-at-heart and have a taste for sugars and fat-filled sauces, and that’s a dieter’s worst nightmare they say, but today the game has changed. We live in a decade that’s blessed with numerous healthy replacement snacks that can minimise or even put an end to your cravings and make your eating lifestyle better, healthier, and most importantly, guiltfree. Enjoying your diet is a crucial factor in your eating habits, and to truly enjoy your ordinary meals, you need something extraordinary. You need a little bit of sparkle in your daily diet. For those who have a sweet-tooth, protein shakes are there to ease the struggle, but we can’t really have protein powder with our firekissed meats, so in this case, brands like Walden Farms and Nuts ‘N More come into play.

I found these two new-in-town brands at Fat Fit nutrition store where I met Al Moataz Al Hasani, a nutrition enthusiast and owner of the store that provides healthy snacks, condiments, sauces, dips, spreads, creamers, and a lot of other stuff.

He introduced two of the world’s most popular brands for healthy replacements, as I entered his store in Al Khoudh. I was stunned by the choices that one could pick from, racks and racks of low to zero-calorie items that could be savoured with pretty much anything, and without sacrificing one’s health. So let’s explore these brands that should be staple items in your eating habits.

Nuts ‘N More Let’s start off with my favourite treat, peanut butter. Nuts ‘N More is a USA brand that makes flavourful protein peanut butter and almond butter spreads in a variety of flavours, some of which you’ll be surprised they even exist, and the best part is they’re just like your typical peanut butter, only healthier and tastier.

Essentially, this is a protein-based snack.

It is of great nutrition value (7 grams of protein per tablespoon) and has very low carbohydrates, which makes it a treat that could be eaten daily without worrying on packing the pounds, although you have to be careful not to obsessively eat it, as I did with my Cookie Butter flavoured spread, which was superb. I forgot about eggs and enjoyed myself this creamy treat on a toasted brown bread for breakfast. Sometimes I would blend it with my protein shake, or even coffee, too. The brand comes with many flavours. The selection includes cookie butter, pumpkin spice, chocolate, salted caramel, white chocolate, toffee crunch, cinnamon rai-

sin, chocolate almond, and of course, plain peanut butter among others. I truly recommend this treat.

Enjoying your diet is a crucial factor in your eating habits, and to truly enjoy your ordinary meals, you need something extraordinary. You need a little bit of sparkle in your daily diet.

Walden Farms Walden Farms on the other hand is an interesting brand that’s been around since 1972, selling all types of condiments and dips alternatives. This brand came in to help those opting a healthier lifestyle the opportunity to push their potential healthy eating habits to the maximum, and they did so by developing items that could easily replace our daily favourites such as mayonnaise and ketchup, and most importantly, keeping the taste intact.

This innovative lifestyle choice is a must in everyone’s fridge. Their reduced calorie items are among the popular ones worldwide, and it is the only brand in the world offering items with zero calories. This stated fact triggered my interest instantly, and after asking Al Moataz, the calories are actually reduced to an unmeasurable number; according to the FDA, anything below five calorie is considered zero.

The brand has a massive selection of items in more than ten categories which include syrups like chocolate, maple walnut and caramel, condiments like ranch, honey mustard and chipotle, coffee creamers like French vanilla, sweet cream and mocha, salad dressings such as creamy bacon, bleu cheese and Caesar, fruit spreads like cranberry sauce, apple butter and strawberry, as well as pasta and barbecue sauces, dips, and on-the-go packets.

I got myself a few items to ease the struggle of dieting, and I was blown away.

Some items taste better than others, but in the end, something is better than nothing.

And, now you can enjoy your pancakes and grilled meats without feeling super guilty.

Barbecue sauce is one of the popular items at the store, I’m not a hardcore fan of BBQ sauce in general, but the taste was great and smoky, but having too much of it creates an unusual aftertaste, so what I like to do is, marinate my proteins with it.

I cut my chicken, season it, add some Walden Farms sauce, and let it sit before grilling it, or I would simply brush it over my already-grilled steak. Another sauce that I loved was the chocolate syrup. It was quite delicious and creamy, fits perfectly well with pancakes, and I did not feel the sourness that online reviews state, it was rather delicious with a dark chocolate flavoured taste. I cannot wait to hit the Fat Fit store and get me more items from this brand; I already eyed the bleu cheese salad dressing and caramel coffee creamer.

Healthy eating culture in Oman is growing by the minute and with the rising trend these kind of stores are here to give us that push towards making it to the finish line. Prices vary for protein products.

Nuts ‘N More products are priced between OMR6.500 and OMR8.500, and Walden Farms items cost around OMR2.500 to OMR2.700 each. Fat Fit rates are quite reasonable, and it’s worth every penny. — salim@timesofoman.com Fat Fit Azaiba; Al Khoudh +968 9191 1488; +968 9669 9664 Instagram: @fatfit_om

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

WEATHER

TEMPERATURE

HUMIDITY

31 - 16 77-25% 0

0

PRAYER TIMINGS

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

12.15pm 3.16pm 5.37pm 6.52pm 5.29am

A1 5

LIFESTYLE

BRIEFS

Warning on anaesthesia in pregnant women Repeated or lengthy use of general anaesthetic and sedation drugs in infants, toddlers, and pregnant women in their third trimester might damage children’s developing brains, the US Food and Drug Administration warned this month. Upset that the warning about pregnant women was based solely on animal studies, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, or ACOG, shot back its objection.

CDC considers lowering threshold level for lead exposure The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is considering lowering its threshold for elevated childhood blood lead levels by 30 per cent, a shift that could help health practitioners identify more children afflicted by the heavy metal.

Since 2012, the CDC, which sets public health standards for exposure to lead, has used a blood lead threshold of 5 micrograms per decilitre for children under age 6. While no level of lead exposure is safe for children, those who test at or above that level warrant a public health response, the agency says.

Dietary magnesium tied to lower risk of heart disease and diabetes A diet rich in magnesium — found in foods like leafy greens, fish, nuts, and whole grains — may help lower the risk of chronic health problems like heart disease, and diabetes, a research review suggests.

Some previous studies linked insufficient magnesium levels to a greater risk of developing a wide range of health problems including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and cardiovascular disease, said lead study author Dr Xuexian Fang, a nutrition researcher at Zhengzhou University in China.

Risks are serious when parents don’t cut small fruits for children Children under age 5 could choke on grapes and similarly-shaped foods, and parents should cut them in half or quarters to reduce the risk, Scottish doctors say. Although some parents may know to cut food such as grapes, cherry tomatoes, and hot dogs into smaller pieces, not all do. Public health officials should spread the message more, they wrote in the Archives of Disease in Childhood.— Reuters

KNEE PAIN IN ATHLETES STORY DR SHRIHARSHA

K

nee is the largest joint in the body and any injury to it affects the performance of sportsmen, some of which can even prevent them from further participation. It’s the commonest injury in sports. Overall, knee injuries make up about 55 per cent of all sports injuries.

The knee joint is formed by three bones — the lower end of femur (thigh bone), the upper end of tibia (leg bone), and the patella (kneecap). Two cartilage discs called menisci allow the bones to glide smoothly against each other, absorb shock, and act as a cushion between the femur and the tibia.

Fluid-filled sacs called bursa surround the outside of the knee.

The knee joint is stabilised by muscles, tendons, and four critical ligaments: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), the medial collateral ligament (MCL), and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL).

Any of these structures can get injured during sports, either isolated or combined. Each injury and their management are different. So it’s very essential to know what’s the mechanism of injury and what’s the structure involved.

These injuries can be either acute injuries or overuse injuries.

Acute injuries: These are the

injuries that occur suddenly during an activity, the most common acute injuries are ACL and MCL sprains (a sprain is the stretching or tearing of a ligament) and meniscal injuries. An ACL injury can occur when an athlete changes direction quickly, stops suddenly, or lands from a jump. MCL injuries often occur in contact sports when the outside of the knee joint is struck and meniscal injuries happen due to abnormal twisting of a weight bearing knee joint.

Fractures of the above mentioned bones and dislocations can also occur, but are fortunately rare.

Overuse injuries: These are caused by a repeated action or continuous pressure on the knee.

Common overuse injuries include Bursitis; inflammation of the bursa, jumper’s knee; inflammation of the patellar tendon, the cord-like tissue that joins the patella (kneecap) to the tibia (shin bone) and Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (runner’s knee); muscle weakness or minor softening of the cartilage under the kneecap that may cause an abnormality in the movement of the patella over the femur. It’s not just for runners. Anyone who spends time doing things that make you bend your knees a lot, like walking, biking, and, jumping, can get runner’s knee, an aching pain around the kneecap. The symptoms vary depending on the lacation and sever-

In acute ligament injuries sometimes the player can hear a popping sound with pain which is followed by swelling of the knee. The knee feels unstable and difficult to walk. However in minor degree of injuries they can continue to play with discomfort and observe swelling and increased pain later.

ity of injury. These include swelling and stiffness, warmth and redness, limping, instability, inability to fully straighten the knee, and locking of the knee.

In acute ligament injuries sometimes the player can hear a popping sound with pain which is followed by swelling of the knee. The knee feels unstable and difficult to walk. However in minor degree of injuries they can continue to play with discomfort and observe swelling and increased pain later.

If there is isolated minor injury to meniscus or cartilage, the player may feel only mild discomfort and pain initially which will be followed by swelling in 6-8 hours.

In overuse injuries people will have a dull aching or pricking type of pain which gets aggravated with specific activities. There will be site specific swelling and tenderness. There can be increased local temperature and redness in overlaying area.

Many of these conditions can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications, rest, activity modification, and proper physiotherapy.

However, some require surgical treatment.

ACL injury: Frequently, ACL tears require surgery to replace the ligament. Usually this will be done as an arthroscopic procedure with small incisions. Commonly a tissue is taken from patient, to be

used as a graft to replace the torn ACL. Physical therapy is necessary to rehabilitate the knee and it is usually at least six to twelve months before athletes can return to their normal activity level.

MCL injury: Fortunately, MCL tears do not usually require surgery. Treatment usually includes rest, anti-inflammatory pain medications and sometimes a brace is necessary to keep the knee from moving from side to side. A surgery will be required in some severe tears with associated multiligament injuries.

Meniscal injury: Symptomatic tears of meniscus are usually treated with arthroscopic surgery.

It requires repair or partial/complete excision depending on the type and site of tear.

Patellar tendinitis and Bursitis: Treatment for patellar tendinitis and bursitis normally includes rest, icing, and antiinflammatory pain medications with physiotherapy. The overuse injuries will reuire surgical treatment only if they are not responding to adequate non operative treatment. It is essential to consult an orthopaedic surgeon for proper diagnosis and treatment.

—lifestyle@timesofoman.com Dr Shriharsha is specialist orthopaedic surgeon at Burjeel Hospital.

A16

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

LIFESTYLE H E A LT H N E W S

Shortened Antibiotic Course May Do More Harm than Good A shortened course of antibiotics to treat children with ear infections may result in worse clinical outcomes without reducing the risk of drug resistance or adverse events, researchers have warned.

Acute otitis media is a bacterial infection of the middle ear behind the ear drum which causes it to become painfully inflamed.

Three out of four children experience this infection within their first year. Consequently, it is the most common reason why children are prescribed an antibiotic.

Researchers from University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre (UPMC) in the US studied 520 children between 9 and 23 months of age with acute otitis media. “Given significant concerns regarding overuse of antibiotics and increased antibiotic resistance, we conducted this trial to see if reducing the duration of antibiotic treatment would be equally effective along

with decreased antibiotic resistance and fewer adverse reactions,” said Alejandro Hoberman from UPMC. Children with acute otitis media were randomly assigned to either a standard 10day regimen of the antibiotic amoxicillin-clavulanate or a shortened 5-day treatment followed by five days of placebo.

Also, reduced-duration antibiotics did not decrease the risk of frequent adverse events like diarrhoea or diaper rash.

When testing the risk of a recurrent infection, they found that it was higher when children

Make Good Nutrition a Family Affair this Year

were exposed to three or more children for 10 or more hours per week, such as in a day care setting, or if the initial infection occurred in both ears as opposed to just one ear.

The study also showed for the first time that almost one in two children in whom residual fluid was observed in the middle ear after treatment had a recurring infection, a significantly higher percentage when compared to children without any residual fluid in the middle ear. The study was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. -PTI

Nurturing and nourishing a family go hand-in-hand. If you’re ready to rally your family around better nutrition, now’s the time to get a healthy jump on the New Year.

M

aking consistently good food choices can set your family on the road to good health, says Marlene Schmidt, registered dietitian for Nestlé’s Nutrition, Health and Wellness Centre of Excellence. “Besides helping you stay healthy, a nutritious diet can support growth, strengthen immune systems and boost energy levels.”

These tips will start every member of the family on a new course of good nutrition in 2017.

Infant and toddler foods A lifetime of wellness begins with good eating habits during pregnancy and nutritious choices for your baby. Breast milk is the ideal food for infants. Experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for your baby’s first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding for as long as possible after introduction of first foods.

Your paediatrician can help determine when your baby is ready to try solid foods. Feeding ironfortified infant cereal is a great way to help meet your baby’s iron needs. Add fruits and veggies one at a time, and ensure foods are the right size and texture to match your baby’s development, starting with pureed foods and working your way to small, soft bits. Offering a variety of nutritious foods will help your baby experience different tastes and flavours.

Get kids in the kitchen If you’re a parent, you’re being watched, so make sure your child sees you eating fruits, vegetables and whole grains — and fewer sugary, fatty or salty foods.

Plan to eat meals together.

Shared mealtime is a great chance to reconnect as a family, and to engage your children in fun explorations of what it means to be healthy.

Invite kids to help you grocery shop, plan meals and cook. They’ll learn important lifelong skills.

One study found that children who help prepare meals eat more vegetables than those who don’t participate.

Can’t get kids to try new foods?

Don’t give up. Research shows young children may need to try a new veggie up to 10 times before they learn to like it.

Stock up for teens Good nutrition is crucial during the teen years, but it can be a challenge. Teenagers are developing their own food preferences.

Make healthy eating easy for them. Stock up on simple, appealing foods - from cut-up fruits and veggies to smoothies, whole grain wraps, soups, and sandwiches.

For a satisfying and teen-approved beverage that provides a protein punch, opt for chocolate milk, which offers nine essential nutrients, including vitamin D, calcium, and potassium.

While their nutritional needs are increasing, teenagers are facing new emotional challenges that can cause them to overeat, skip meals or diet. Watch for unhealthy eating patterns and be sensitive to body-image concerns.

Grow up, not out By middle age, our metabolism begins to slow. We need fewer

calories, but it’s hard to break old habits. That’s where mindful eating can help.

Set the table, turn off your devices and savour every bite. You’ll feel more satisfied after meals and be less tempted to snack. Moderate your alcohol intake, and don’t forget your water bottle.

And if your serving sizes have expanded over the years, now’s the time to seek some portion pointers, too.

When older, make wiser food choices Whether from changing tastes, dental problems, medication or illness, people often lose their appetites as they grow older. But good nutrition remains essential for older adults. And it’s never too late to make positive changes. If you or an older family member can’t shop often enough to buy fresh produce, order your groceries online, or buy frozen and canned fruits and vegetables.

Read labels to avoid extra sugar or sodium, and remember to drink plenty of water. If weight loss becomes a problem, consider a liquid supplement or meal replacement beverage for a tasty way to fill nutrient, calorie, and protein gaps.

The approach of a new year is a great time to hit the reset button.

Resolve to replace old habits with healthier ones in 2017. And do it together.- BPT

H E A LT H N O T E

New synthetic stem cells may offer therapeutic benefits Scientists have developed a synthetic version of a cardiac stem cell that may offer therapeutic benefits comparable to those from natural ones and reduce some of the risks associated with stem cell therapies.

The cells have better preservation stability. Stem cell therapies work by promoting endogenous repair; that is, they aid damaged tissue in repairing itself by secreting “paracrine factors,” including proteins and genetic materials.

While stem cell therapies can be effective, they are also associated with some risks of both tumour growth and immune rejection.

Also, the cells themselves are

very fragile, requiring careful storage and a multi-step process of typing and characterisation before they can be used.

Researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in the US and First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University in China fabricated a cell-mimicking microparticle (CMMP) from polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer. The researchers then harvested growth factor proteins from cultured human cardiac stem cells and added them to the PLGA. Finally, they coated the particle with cardiac stem cell membrane. -PTI

B

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

INDIAN SHARES ADVANCE

The BSE benchmark Sensex and CNX Nifty snapped their last twoweek losing streak and recovered by 586 points and 200 points, respectively, last week on bargain hunting from mutual funds despite selling from foreign funds. — PTI

MARKE

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DIGEST VIDEO Top stories in one minute with our new daily Digest

Muscat bourse ends higher by 7% in 2016 on renewed confidence VITAL STATISTICS Muscat bourse was

Dubai was the best performing regional bourse

Lowest growth was posted

by Qatar Stock Exchange

42 shares gained, 50 stocks fell

109 shares traded on the bourse

Daily turnover dipped by 29.3 per cent to OMR3.96m

Market capitalisation grew by 9.6 per cent to OMR17.29b

also the second best performing stock market in the Gulf, after Dubai, which soared 12.06%. The worst performing bourse in the GCC region was Qatar.

A E JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman’s Muscat Securities Market (MSM) rose 6.96 per cent, or 376.49 points, to close at 5,782.71 points in the just concluded year, predominantly due to improved confidence following a recovery in crude oil prices near the end of last year.

The Muscat bourse, which closed last year’s trading on Thursday, was the second best performing stock market in the Gulf region, after Dubai, which soared 12.06 per cent. The worst performing bourse in the GCC region was Qatar, which moved up marginally by 0.07 per cent to close at 10,436.76 points in 2016.

The average price of Oman Crude in the international market

ROBUST PERFORMANCE: Although the Muscat bourse has some 125 listed stocks, only 109 stocks were traded on the stock market last

year. - Times file picture

soared to $43.9 per barrel in November 2016, from as low as $27.4 per barrel in March last year, and $42.28 per barrel in January.

42 shares gain As many as 42 shares gained, while another 50 stocks declined on the bourse in 2016, according to a review released by Al Maha Financial Services. Although the Muscat bourse has some 125 listed stocks,

only 109 stocks were traded on the stock market last year. Further, the market turnover and volume dropped, as investor participation and trading activity witnessed significant declines. The total turnover dipped by 31 per cent to OMR959 million in 2016, from OMR1,390 million for the previous year.

The average daily turnover for last year was OMR3.96 million, down by 29.3 per cent from

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OMR5.6 million in the previous year. Omani investors were net buyers during the year, by 9.01 per cent in terms of the value of traded securities, added the Al Maha Financial Services report. “The Muscat Securities Market’s average turnover last year was the lowest in the last eight years, at OMR3.96 million,” said Suresh Kumar, head of research at Al Maha Financial Services. He also noted that the

weak sentiment due to low oil prices was reflected in the market, as investors turned cautious.

Market capitalisation However, market capitalisation on the Muscat bourse rose by 9.56 per cent to OMR17.29 billion by end-December 2016, against OMR15.78 billion for the same period of 2015.

Major gainers on the Muscat

bourse in 2016 were Packaging Co Ltd (364.3 per cent), National Gas (89.4 per cent), Al Jazeera Steel Products (80.9 per cent), Port Services Corporation (75.4 per cent) and Takaful Oman Insurance (74 per cent). Likewise, the major losers included Sembcorp Salalah (90.6 per cent), National Hospitality Institute (74.1 per cent), Al Anwar Ceramic Tiles (44.4 per cent), National Securities (42 per cent) and Financial Services (39.4 per cent).

The major companies, in terms of traded value, were Bank Muscat, Oman Telecommunications Company (Omantel), Al Anwar Holding, Bank Sohar and Oman International Development and Investment Company (Ominvest).

B2

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

MARKET Bank credit to private sector in Sultanate increases by 12% Total deposits registered a growth of 5 per cent to OMR20.5 billion at the end of October, 2016. Private sector deposits of the banking system registered a growth of 4.4 per cent to OMR13 billion at the end of October, 2016.

MUSCAT: Bank credit to the private sector increased by 11.9 per cent to OMR19.7 billion at the end of October 2016, over the same period last year. Of the total credit to the private sector, the household sector, mainly due to personal loans, stood at 46.1 per cent, closely followed by the nonfinancial corporate sector at 45.7 per cent, financial corporations at 5 per cent and other sectors made up the remaining 3.2 per cent.

Total deposits registered a growth of 5 per cent to OMR20.5 billion at the end of October 2016.

Private sector deposits of the banking system registered growth of 4.4 per cent to OMR13 billion at the end of October 2016.

Sector-wise, the share of households was 49 per cent of the total private sector deposit base, followed by non-financial corporations at 28.3 per cent, financial corporations at 19.5 per cent and other sectors at 3.2 per cent.

STRONG GROWTH: The activities of conventional banks alone show a fairly robust annual growth in total outstanding credit of 7.1 per cent at the end of October, 2016. - Times file picture

The activities of conventional banks alone show a fairly robust annual growth in total outstanding credit of 7.1 per cent at the end of October 2016. Credit to the private sector increased by 9.6 per cent to reach OMR17.6 billion at the end of October 2016 Conventional banks’ overall investments in securities stood at OMR2.9 billion at the end of October 2016. Investment in Government Development Bonds and Government Sukuk increased 31.6 per cent over the year, to reach OMR989 million at the end of October 2016. Banks also invested OMR406.9 million in Government Treasury Bills at the end of October 2016.

Meanwhile, the banking sec-

tor remained resilient, supporting the economic diversification initiatives and credit needs. The combined balance sheet of conventional and Islamic banks, and other depositary corporations, taken together, provides a complete overview of the financial intermediation taking place in the banking system in the Sultanate.

Total outstanding credit The total outstanding credit extended by all financial institutions, including Islamic banks, stood at OMR21.9 billion as of the end of October 2016, a rise of 10.2 per cent over the level witnessed one year ago.

The low oil prices have brought to the fore several challenges to

the Omani economy,as authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, taking appropriate policy measures when warranted.

With the hydrocarbon sector still fundamental to the economy, oil prices have impacted overall economic activity adversely, according to a report released by the Central Bank of Oman (CBO).

Preliminary national accounts data from the Sultanate shows that the nominal gross domestic product (GDP) declined by 11.1 per cent during the first half of 2016, compared to the same period last year. Nominal GDP derived from the petroleum sector contracted by 32.9 per cent, and from the non-petroleum sector registered a marginal decrease of

WA L L S T R E E T

1.6 per cent. Oman Crude registered an average price of $38.3 per barrel during January-September 2016, compared to $59.8 per barrel during a similar period last year. The fiscal situation and the current account balance in the balance of payments came under pressure during the year, and the government focused on appropriate financing of the deficits. Average annual inflation remained moderate at 1.04 per cent from January – October 2016. – ONA

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C O M M O D I T Y WAT C H

Natural gas was last year’s bestperforming commodity NEW YORK: A polar blast that is poised to sweep the US has turned natural gas into the year’s best performer among major commodities.

Frigid weather will sweep the western two-thirds of the nation in the second week of January, stoking gas demand for heating, according to Commodity Weather Group. The deep freeze comes as output from shale basins slows, sending production in the contiguous US toward a second-straight annual drop. The prospect of supply constraints has pushed gas up 59 per cent in 2016.

The gas rally marks a dramatic turnaround for a market that tumbled to the lowest prices since the 1990s earlier this year amid a glut of supply. Nine months later, the surplus has disappeared as an arctic chill boosts consumption and the US ships its bounty of shale gas to Mexico and overseas buyers, putting the nation on course to become a net exporter of the fuel for the first time since the 1950s.

“The weather maps are looking so blue that they’re almost black,” said Santiago Diaz, an energy trading associate at FCStone Latin America in Miami.

“With temperatures dropping like this, there’s definitely a strong bullish case for natural gas, especially considering the slowdown in production from some of the shale formations.”

While gas is the best performer among major commodities, it’s in the middle of the pack based on a Bloomberg Commodities Index calculation of total returns for investors. That’s due to the high costs of storage and rolling gas futures contracts from one month to another.

Gas futures jumped the most since 2005 this year. The February contract slipped 7.8 cents to Friday to settle at $3.724 per million British thermal units on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

— Bloomberg News

SOCIAL MEDIA

United States investors expect single Twitter CEO solicits digit growth in stock index this year product feedback as NEW YORK: After a late-year rally fuelled by the US election pushed stocks to surprising new peaks, investors are wary that the market could be primed for a spill to start 2017.

The benchmark S&P 500 is set to post a roughly 10 per cent price gain for 2016 and around 12 per cent on a total return basis, including reinvested dividends.

That tops the single-digit increase expected by market participants polled by Reuters a year ago, with more than half of the advance coming after Donald Trump’s November 8 presidential victory.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average was on pace to rise more than 13 per cent for 2016, with a total return above 16 per cent.

From here, though, investors expect the S&P 500 to rise by midsingle-digits in 2017, according to a Reuters poll earlier this month.

Reflecting the renewed bullishness for equities, US-based stock funds pulled in $11.8 billion in the week ended December 28, data from Lipper showed on Thursday, marking a sharp reversal from most of the year.

But investors see several warning signs for 2017, including stocks at traditionally expensive valuations; investors registering particularly bullish sentiment; and the Federal Reserve

he takes bigger role

BYE-BYE 2016: The benchmark S&P 500 is set to post a roughly

10 per cent price gain for 2016 and around 12 per cent on a total return basis, including reinvested dividends. — Bloomberg News

primed to raise interest rates several times this year. Meanwhile, a market lifted in part by hopes for Trump’s policy agenda could be deflated should any of those hopes be dented once he begins in office.

The S&P has rallied by more than 5 per cent since Election Day, while the Dow has climbed by more than 8 per cent.

“If anything, we head into the new year with the likelihood we will probably see some near-term weakness in equities primarily

because of the move we’ve seen higher,” said Peter Kenny, senior market strategist at Global Markets Advisory Group in New York.

“You will see some winning trades being taken off the table and, in general, a reset.”

January has proven to be a difficult month for equities in recent years, with the S&P 500 falling at least 3 per cent in each January of 2014, 2015 and 2016.

The beginning of 2016 was marked by the worst 10-day start

ever for the S&P, plagued by worries about a rout in commodities, a China slowdown and a potentially over-aggressive Fed after it hiked interest rates for the first time since 2008. A year later, a test for the market could come as soon as next week. Investors may have been holding off on selling their winners until 2017 with hopes that any profits will be taxed at a lower rate.

“A lot of people have postponed selling gains this year, expecting that they are going to have lower tax brackets next year,” said Paul Nolte, portfolio manager at Kingsview Asset Management in Chicago.

“So we might see a weaker open to the year as investors take some of those gains that they have waited to do.” “There was a tinge more enthusiasm not only because Trump won, and that is perceived as less headwinds for business, but also because the Republicans were able to hold onto the Senate, which was unexpected,” said Scott Wren, senior global equity strategist at Wells Fargo Investment Institute in St. Louis. “But it’s not like all these deals are rubber-stamp deals.

They are going to have to be refined, debated, you don’t know what the magnitude is, and they have to be implemented.” - Reuters

SAN FRANCISCO: Jack Dorsey wants Twitter’s users to know he is listening to them.

His tweet on Thursday soliciting product feedback from users drew hundreds of responses, highlighting concerns with everything from abuse on the site to users’ inability to fix errors after they publish tweets.

“We will consider everything we heard from you,” Dorsey said on Friday on Twitter. “Not going to ship all of it, but will be more transparent about why and what we learned.”

Dorsey is taking more control over Twitter’s product after the company lost its chief operating officer and chief technology officer.

Now, out of necessity, the product, engineering and design divisions report directly to him. The product division is run by an executive relatively new to Twitter, Keith Coleman, who joined with an acquisition on Dec. 1.

Twitter, which lets users post 140-character messages and follow the tweets of others, has had trouble defining its vision after years of executive turnover. The San Francisco-based company is under pressure to show it can expand its audience of about 317 million monthly active users, as

Jack Dorsey. — Bloomberg file picture

advertising revenue starts to increase more slowly. Twitter failed to find an acquirer earlier this year and the social media company said in October it would eliminate 9 per cent of its workforce. The shares lost 30 per cent this year, closing on Friday at $16.30.

Dorsey summarised user requests on his Twitter account.

For addressing abuse, the CEO and co-founder said the “biggest ask was for greater transparency around our actions (or inaction) and faster shipping.” For editing tweets, he said the “clearest ask was to provide a quick way to fix errors. Anything beyond requires showing edit history given tweets are public record.” — Bloomberg News

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

B3

MARKET AUTOMOBILE

US auto sales growth drawing to end: Industry experts MICHIGAN: While it is still too close to call whether 2016 delivered another annual record for US auto sales, it is clear the era of rapid growth is over.

The industry is entering 2017 with analysts projecting the first significant decline in eight years — a drop of 200,000 vehicles, about the equivalent of one factory’s production — to 17.3 million cars and light trucks. While topearning consumers will continue to snap up luxury vehicles loaded with high-tech features, analysts say higher expenses are working against less well-heeled buyers.

“Car sales have experienced an unprecedented run that just couldn’t last forever,” said Michelle Krebs, senior analyst with Cox Automotive. “Rising gas prices, rising interest rates — that just puts pressure on household budgets.”

There is one wild card for the US auto industry as the year begins: The arrival of Donald Trump as US president on Jan. 20. During the campaign Trump discussed policies that have potential to help auto sales — tax cuts, for example — or hurt them, such as adding tariffs on imported vehicles.

When automakers release results on Wednesday, analysts on average project that December sales will come in at a seasonally adjusted annualised rate of 17.6 million cars and light trucks, up from last December’s 17.5 million

rate and probably good enough to just squeak past 2015’s full-year total, which also was 17.5 million.

One challenge is that there was one fewer selling day this December compared with the year-earlier month. Another is that December can vex automotive advertisers, caught between November’s Black Friday sales pushes and the clutter of holiday-season ads for other consumer goods.

‘Tricky’ December “December is kind of a tricky month,” particularly from December 10 to 26, said Cynthia Brown, Toyota’s national advertising manager for dealerships. This observation led to the heavy use of Toyota’s “Right Light” spot, in which a soldier sees a welcome home greeting outside her airplane window, written with strings of holiday lights.

The feel-good ad contains only a subtle reminder of December’s “Toyotathon” sales event.

Other automakers didn’t hold back. Cable channels were jammed with leasing deals, no-interest offers and other aggressive come-ons. General Motors, the largest US automaker, may gain 4.4 per cent, based on the average analyst estimate. Fiat Chrysler, which discontinued its compact and midsize sedans, is projected to drop 14 per cent, while Ford, Toyota, Honda and Nissan are all seen slipping less than 3 per cent.

Either way 2016 turns out, what

FIXING IT UP: Most automakers will reveal their 2017 forecasts next month around the North

American International Auto Show in Detroit. - Bloomberg file picture

a run it’s been: Since the depths of the recession, light-vehicle sales in the world’s most lucrative market have grown faster than a million units a year on average, delivering an unprecedented streak of annual gains.

Looking ahead Most automakers will reveal their 2017 forecasts next month around the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The average

estimate in a Bloomberg survey of analysts has risen to 17.3 million cars and light trucks from a 17.2 million average in November.

One reason for the boost is Brian Johnson of Barclays, among the more bearish analysts this year, who raised his outlook for the industry in an extensive Dec. 16 report about the effects of the Trump administration. Where he once predicted an “eroding plateau,” he’s now calling for, well,

just a plain old plateau. “In 2017, tax cuts, new fiscal stimulus, as well as improved ‘animal spirits,’ could strengthen consumer spending and effectively extend the auto cycle,” Johnson wrote.

US consumer confidence, which recovered from the lowest levels on record to above average during Barack Obama’s presidency, has continued to climb since Trump’s election and in December reached the highest since 2001.

Oil makes biggest annual gain since 2009 before Opec cut Chicago, said on Friday by phone.

After doom-and-gloom sentiment closed out 2015, the market is now “probably the most optimistic we are looking going into a new year in energy in many, many years.”

Brent for March settlement closed 3 cents lower at $56.82 a barrel on the London-based ICE Futures Europe exchange on Friday. The February contract expired on Thursday after losing 8 cents to $56.14. Total volume traded was about 60 per cent below the 100-day average.

Oil futures rose 52 per cent in London this year after closing little changed on Friday.

US crude inventories unexpectedly expanded for a second week.

HOUSTON: Oil made the biggest annual gain since 2009 as Opec and other producing nations plan to start supply cuts next month to reduce swelling global inventories.

Futures rose 52 per cent in London this year after closing little changed on Friday. US crude inventories unexpectedly expanded for a second week with a gain of 614,000 barrels last week, the Energy Information Administration

VITAL RESOURCE: Oil prices have slumped since the summer of 2014 from above $100 a barrel.

— Bloomberg file picture

reported on Thursday. US drillers expanded for a ninth-straight week, boosting active oil rigs to 525, according to data from Baker Hughes Inc. on Friday. Shale drillers have added 100 rigs since September, the biggest three-month gain since the boom times of firstquarter 2014.

Brent, the global benchmark, marked its first annual advance in four years in 2016 as the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and 11 other nations push ahead with a plan to cut output. While they have managed to buoy sentiment and lift prices from below $30 a barrel early this

S TA K E A C Q U I S I T I O N

Treasure Fleet International seeks stake in National Bank of Oman Times News Service MUSCAT: National Bank of Oman (NBO) on Thursday said it had received a proposal from Treasure Fleet International Pte Ltd to acquire a stake in the bank.

“The proposal from Treasure Fleet International Pte. Ltd. will

be reviewed and discussed by the board of directors. Further disclosures concerning this matter will be made, if there are developments to report,” said a bank disclosure statement posted on the MSM website.

NBO also said that no legally binding commitments have been

made, and this proposal is still subject to review and approval

by NBO’s board of directors, the shareholders of NBO and local regulatory authorities.

Treasure Fleet International is a Singapore-based firm, according to its website, which is under development.

year, the rising number of rigs in the US and the possibility of members not sticking to output targets are a risk. US inventories remain at the highest seasonal level in more than three decades.

“What a difference a year makes,” Phil Flynn, senior market analyst at Price Futures Group in

US stockpiles West Texas Intermediate for February delivery settled down 5 cents to $53.72 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. The contract fell 29 cents to $53.77 on Thursday. Prices are up 45 per cent this year. The 614,000-barrel increase in US crude inventories last week compared with a 1.5 million-barrel decline forecast by analysts surveyed by Bloomberg, while American Petroleum Institute data showed a 4.2 millionbarrel expansion. Crude production dropped for a second week, while stockpiles at Cushing, Oklahoma, the delivery point for WTI, grew by 172,000 barrels to 66.4 million. - Bloomberg News

Incentive spending Longer term, Johnson cautions that rising interest rates, weakening residual values, ongoing shifts away from personal vehicle ownership and potential tightening in availability of financing will keep sales from soaring to 18 million.

Johnson also sees some risk in automakers’ willingness to spend a bit more freely on incentives.

Discounts have risen almost 14 per cent this year through November to $3,303 on average, according to Autodata Corp. — but average transaction prices have also risen, allowing automakers to remain profitable. If many automakers project another 17.5 million year, they may plan their production around that level and then further increase incentives if needed to soak up the supply, he said.

For investors, the hope is that with today’s more-flexible labour contracts, automakers are better positioned to avoid the bad habits of past downturns, such as building vehicles no one wants to buy and then selling them at a loss.

“In past years you had a legacy cost associated with the Detroit Three in terms of excess capacity and excess labour that is no longer part of the system,” said Joe Langley, an analyst with IHS Markit.

“So there’s no need to take some of these measures that we’ve done in the past of artificially over-producing vehicles and overly incentivizing them.” — Bloomberg News CRUDE SUPPLIES

Hedge funds expect oil rally NEW YORK: Investors are showing no sign of turning their backs on oil heading into 2017.

Money managers’ wagers on rising West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude prices are triple what they were at the end of 2015, and are the highest since the start of the crude market crash 2 1/2 years ago.

Crude futures settled at the highest in almost 18 months on Dec. 28, with investors now eyeing the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) and other producers to see who complies with agreed output cuts.

Hedge funds boosted their netlong position, or the difference between bets on a price increase and wagers on a decline, by 0.6 per cent in the week ended on December 27, US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) data show.

WTI increased 3.2 per cent to $53.90 a barrel in the report week before settling at $53.72 in New York on Friday.

Prices climbed this week amid signs that Opec members will follow through with the promised cuts. Iraqi Oil Minister Jabbar al-Luaibi said his country was committed to cutting output by 200,000 to 210,000 barrels a day from the beginning of next month.

Venezuela will cut 95,000 barrels a day of production starting from January 1. — Bloomberg News

B4

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

FEATURE V

Investors bet on Vietnam’s manufacturing industry Economists predict Vietnam will be among the world’s fastest-growing economies in 2016 as it benefits from a manufacturing industry that has grown in importance over the years.

ietnam stocks are pricier than their Southeast Asian peers for the first time in two years — and they are about to become more expensive. “There is room to grow,” said Dominic Scriven, Ho Chi Minh City-based chairman at Dragon Capital. “We are looking for 19 per cent net growth for earnings next year,” as the economy expands and inflation remains stable, he said.

The benchmark VN Index is trading 15.9 times earnings, compared with the MSCI South East Asia Index which is at 14.7. A 15 per cent gain in the VN Index has led to its outperformance versus the MSCI Frontier Markets Index and the South East Asia benchmark gauge.

The market’s “valuation is expected to continue rising in 2017,” because of upcoming listings of attractive companies, said Le Nguyet Anh, head of research at ACB Securities JSC. “Meanwhile, for the currently listed stocks, decent earnings growth will be the major price growth momentum.”

The strong premium this year is “due to its good macroeconomic performance and political stability, while the rest of the region went through political transformations and tougher economic times,” said Attila Vajda, managing director at Project Asia Research and Consulting Pte in Ho Chi Minh City.

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, elected earlier 2016, has unnerved investors with his frequent outbursts against the US and violent war on drugs. Thailand has experienced deadly street clashes and tainted corruption trials since an army coup in 2014.

Fastest growing economy Economists predict Vietnam will be among the world’s fastest-growing economies in 2016 as it benefits from a manufacturing industry that has grown in importance over the years. Increased foreign direct investment helped push the VN Index to an eight-year high of 688.89 on October 19. The government aims for GDP growth of 6.7 per cent next year, which will be the fastest pace since 2007. Profits at companies on the benchmark gauge are projected to grow 23 per cent in the next 12 months, according to data compiled

by Bloomberg.

Liquidity issues The market still faces the “hurdle of liquidity,” said Andy Ho, VinaCapital’s chief investment officer. He recommends the government lift the foreign ownership limit in the banking sector as one way to boost the market liquidity. Last year, Vietnam allowed some industries to raise the foreign ownership limit to 100 per cent from 49 per cent, however, the cap for the banking sector still remains at 30 per cent.

Vietnam, which would have been the biggest beneficiary of the TransPacific Partnership, may stand to lose the most as President-elect Trump prepares to quit the pact.

“Since Vietnam’s economy is export driven and the US is a significant export market, it is likely that we need to see how the incoming Trump administration will finally deal with trade barriers,” said Vajda.

The average daily turnover on the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange — the main bourse — is just $109 million this year, compared with $768 million in Singapore, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

Government plans It is a “great time” to invest in Vietnam now as the government has accelerated the divestment process in major companies, VinaCapital’s Ho said. The Vietnam government’s planned stake sales of major companies next year is seen as “encouraging” for investors, according to Ho. “There are really good companies that the government is now allowing foreign companies, like institutional investors like ourselves, to put money into them,” he said.

State Capital Investment Corp., the government’s investment arm, raised about $500 million selling 5.4 per cent of its stake in Vietnam Dairy Products during the longawaited sale on December 12.

Besides divestments, the government has also pushed companies to list shares on the exchange, which has made the stock market “more interesting,” according to Vajda. The market will welcome the future listings of some major companies, including Vietnam Airlines Corp. and Vietnam National Textile and Garment Group.

Vietnam Airlines said in November that it would start trading in Unlisted Public Company Market, or UpCom, before December 31 and Vinatex, as the textile group is commonly known, plans to list 500 million shares on UpCom on the first week of January.

“Some new listings will attract enough excitement that the index can grow moderately, if there are no external trade shocks due to protectionist policies from the US,” said Vajda. — Bloomberg News

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B5

ROUND-UP

Ford Explorer wins coveted award Ford’s Explorer is a great looking SUV that is a joy to experience. It is well-equipped to make every journey pleasant, whilst also comfortably seating a large family on weekend journeys

MUSCAT: Good looks, advanced performance capabilities, tough stance, along with new-age technologies are just what make the Ford Explorer one of the most preferred SUVs in Oman.

Recently at the Oman Auto Excellence Awards 2016, the Ford Explorer was awarded the best mid-size SUV, giving it another medal to add to its overall tally worldwide, says a press release.

Ford’s Explorer is a great looking SUV that is a joy to experience.

It is well-equipped to make every journey pleasant, whilst also comfortably seating a large family on weekend journeys.

The Ford Explorer presents the owner with an unmatched road presence and an enhanced sense of pride. It is an ideal SUV to plan your routine and adventurous journeys in since there is hardly

any terrain that would dare to stand up as a hurdle.

The Explorer has an impressive combination of power, luxury and advanced technology features. The refreshed Ford Explorer is better looking than it's ever been with a new engine, a new trim level and a raft of new technologies. The Explorer is available in base, XLT, Limited and Sports trim lines.

The Explorer is equipped with a new fascia, LED signature lights, new grille, new hood, new fenders, all new wheel line-up, new rims, new roof wreck, new tail lamps, new lift gate, new exhaust tips, powerfold 3rd row that gives versatility to the customers and much more. New tech bits include an available front and 180-degree wide rear-view camera with washers, parking assist system that can now park the Explorer perpen-

dicularly, while parking sensors are now available for the front. The hands-free, foot-activated power liftgate is now available for the Explorer. The standard engine on base, XLT and Limited models is a normally-aspirated 3.5-litre V6 producing an estimated 294 PS and 346 Nm of torque.

The exterior of the Explorer is very impressive encompassing a new signature lighting that surrounds the LED headlamps, giving the vehicle a continuous glow. Other exterior updates include a standard dual-panel moonroof, premium silver-painted front and rear skid plate elements, and an all-new 18

and 20-inch wheel line-up.

In the Explorer the intelligent four-wheel drive with Terrain Management System is ready for any adventure. It reassesses conditions about 20 times faster than the blink of an eye – providing precise handling and traction.

It continuously monitors wheel speed, throttle position and steering wheel angle to determine vehicle conditions and driver intent.

The system then determines the optimal amount of front and rear torque for the given conditions to prevent slip from even occurring, which helps keep the vehicle surefooted on virtually any terrain.

In sand, grass or gravel mode, the antilock braking system changes its pulse rate, which allows material to build up in front of the wheels, acting as a doorstop of sorts to help slow momentum.

Interior changes help enhance quietness in the cabin. There are new door seals, and an enhanced sound package includes engine subframe mounts specially tuned to reduce vibration. Acoustic glass is used on the windshield and front doors on XLT and higher trim levels.

The new Explorer benefits from an improved suspension for better handling and a quiet cabin, enabling a comfortable ride even

when the pavement turns to dirt.

Ford completely retuned the Explorer chassis to clearly differentiate the driving experiences offered by the XLT and Sport models.

The suspension uses MacPherson construction with an isolated subframe and 32-millimetre stabilizer bar at the front, while an independent multilink rear setup uses a 22-millimetre stabiliser bar.

Explorer Sport customers looking for a more dynamic driving experience will benefit from unique steering gear, front and rear springs, struts and rear dampers.

The Explorer boasts of advanced safety features to reward customers with happy journeys.

The features include 2nd Generation Driver & Front Passenger, Side Seat Airbags, 3rd Row Safety Canopy with Rollover Sensor, AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, BLIS with Cross Traffic Alert, Front 180-Degree Camera with Washer, Perpendicular Parking, and more.

Ford vehicles are known the world over for their exceptional safety, luxury and unsurpassed technological superiority. Ford ploughs in millions of dollars into R&D each year to ensure that every Ford offers maximum safety and motoring pleasure for its customers.

In Oman, Ford vehicles are brought to you by Arabian Car Marketing Co.

RECOGNITION

TA Q A A B R A N C H

Bank Sohar supports Al Wafa Centre for Rehabilitation of Children with Disabilities MUSCAT: Stemming from its strong commitment towards Corporate Social Responsibility, Bank Sohar recently extended its support to the Taqaa branch of the Al Wafa Centre for Rehabilitation of Children with Disabilities. This donation, which will contribute towards the purchase of essential equipment for the centre, is the bank’s 25th donation of the year.

The donation cheque was handed over at Bank Sohar Salalah Branch to Mohammed Suhail Al Amri, manager - Development Unit of Al Wafa Centre for Rehabilitation of Children with Disabilities, by Mustafa Ali Mukhtar, DGM and acting head of Wholesale Banking, and in the presence of Amur Said Al Amri, senior chief manager of the Salalah branch, says a press release.

Commenting on the donation, Munira Abdulnabi Macki, the GM of Human Resources and Corporate Support at Bank Sohar said, “At Bank Sohar we care dearly for the children of our community and believe they all deserve an equal opportunity to grow into successful contributing members of society. Organisations such as Al Wafa Centre for Rehabilitation of Children with Disabilities have done a great job of ensuring that even children with special needs are provided with these opportunities. As a result we are glad to have supported them over the past years and will continue to do

Joyalukkas group executive director receives 'Young NRI Entrepreneur of the Year' award

so for the foreseeable future.”

The Al Wafa Centre for Rehabilitation of Children with Disabilities relies on trained Omani volunteers to provide services to children aged 3 to 14 years, who have some form of mental, auditory, physical, or visual disability, together with their families. The Centre does so by providing comprehensive rehabilitation and support programs such as physiotherapy, speech therapy, sports and much more. Together, with the support it receives from the private and government sector,

Al Wafa Centre for Rehabilitation of Children with Disabilities enables beneficiaries to continue living a normal life and become contributing members of the society.

Thanking Bank Sohar for its support Maryam MohsinAl Mamari, Director of the Al Wafa Centre for Rehabilitation of Children with Disabilities- Taqaa Branch said, “Our centre aims at offering specialist support to children suffering from various forms of mental, auditory, physical, or visual disability. We do so by following the latest therapeutic

programmes and develop appropriate treatment plans for each individual case. Also conduct family counselling services as well as seminars and workshop to raise awareness about ways to deal with children with special needs. This has all been made possible thanks to the support we receive from the private sector, of which Bank Sohar is amongst the most dedicated.

I would like to encourage more private sector companies to follow in the bank’s footsteps and join hands with us and other NGOs for the benefit of the community.”

MUSCAT: In a star-studded celebration of the Keralite expatriate’s entrepreneurial spirit, John Paul Alukkas, Joyalukkas group executive director, received the Young NRI Entrepreneur of the Year Award for 2016 from Prinarayi Vijayan, chief minister of Kerala India, Mamooty, Malayalam Communications Ltd. chairman and Malayalam cine super star, and other dignitaries and VIPs. The Kairali TV NRI entrepreneur Awards was held recently at Hotel Steigenberger Dubai, says a press release.

John Paul credits many of the innovations and best business practices he has implemented across the 11 countries the group operates in to lessons he has learned by example from his father.

“Meeting suppliers and custom-

ers face to face, observing firsthand what goes on in the showrooms on a daily basis, these are just a few of the things I learned from my father that I continue to practice today,” said John Paul Alukkas. “When you are following the footsteps of a man everyone says has the Midas touch, it can be a daunting prospect. But I also learned from him that if you do things from the heart, if you offer sincere, honest and consistently excellent service, you are already a success.

“I thank Kairali TV for recognising my efforts and showcasing the contributions of Keiralite entrepreneurs across the GCC. This was a great opportunity for all of us to strengthen the ties of our business community, as well as give credit where it is due for the success we have all enjoyed in this and past years.”

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ROUND-UP Special offer on BAIC X65

PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H G U L F E X H I B I T I O N S

Gulf Great Sands is offering a plethora of rewards for the customers of BAIC X65, a vehicle that ensures excellent performance

MUSCAT: As part of Gulf Great Sands, the exclusive importer of BAIC in Oman’s ongoing ‘special introductory offer’, customers of BAIC X65 can enjoy a variety of benefits this season including low EMI. Gulf Great Sands is offering a plethora of rewards for the customers of BAIC X65, a vehicle that ensures excellent performance.

Low EMIs, assured cash gift, free registration, free service and manufacturer’s warranty are among the choice of benefits customers of BAIC X65 can enjoy. The offer which has already started will be valid till January 8, 2017, says a press release.

Customers can avail low EMI rates of OMR99 (terms and conditions apply) on BAIC X65.

Patrons of BAIC X65 can also get an assured cash gift worth OMR1,500, free registration, free two years/30,000km service and manufacturer’s warranty up to five years/100,000km whichever is earlier.

The cash gift can be adjusted in the down payment of the car if customer opts for it. EMI calculation is based on 20 per cent down payment and six years’ loan tenure after adjusting the respective cash gift amount for each BAIC model.

It is also subject to credit approval.

GGS spokesperson said, “BAIC X65 is a high-performance cross-

OCEC to host two exhibitions in 2017 over. The first urban crossover based on SAAB technologies, it combines superior performance, smart configuration and stylish designs to offer an enjoyable driving experience. It is a great time to own this exciting vehicle.”

X65 - Urban explorer BAIC X65 combines space of a MPV and comfort of a sedan.

BAIC X65 ensures excellent performance with 2.0L 174 Hp Turbo Engine, new generation AISIN 6 Speed Automatic transmission with Smart Paddle Shift. X65 Comfort has Smart Equipment like Machine Cut Alloy wheels, Panoramic Sunroof, Leather Seats, Power driver seat, Rear View camera, Smart Key and push button start all of which provide customer with enjoyable driving experience.

X65 inherits the European Safety Standards due to which it meets the 5 star CNCAP rating and is equipped with safety features like 6 Airbags, Bluetooth, TPMS, ABS, EBD and Parking sensors.

Balanced performance Equipped with a powerful 2.0T turbocharged engine with 174 hp,

BAIC X65 gives the driver unrivalled pleasure and dynamically balanced performance. It features a 6-speed automatic transmission from the world-leading supplier AISIN to ensure the best quality.

Grade), LCD touch screen, keyless access and push start button, Bluetooth and cruise control. Furthermore, it offers 6-way power adjustments at driver seat (Comfort Grade) for driver convenience.

Complete safety BAIC X65 puts in a lot of attention to details when it comes to safety, durability and resilience. Its safety system was designed according to the specifications of SAAB, and meets the C-NCAP 5-star standards. The application of anti-collision high-strength steel beams and reinforced side wall brings it more comprehensive safety. Apart from the above, its safety equipment includes six airbags (Comfort Grade), ABS, EBD, ESP electronic stabilisation programme, tyre pressure sensors (Comfort Grade), reverse sensors and more.

Stylish design When it comes to the looks, BAIC X65 is quite a head turner with embossed lines, diamond-cut taillights with LED brake lights, panoramic sunroof and distinctive machine-cut alloy wheels. With a sharp engine hood, barrel-type instrument panel and wraparound interior design, it’s a perfect combination of tough shape and dynamic personality.

Smart features BAIC X65 is surrounded by advanced integrated technology and sophisticated gadgets from all sides. It is equipped with paddle shift, adjustable side mirrors which has auto folding (Comfort Grade), 7-inch screen (Comfort

Superior comfort Apart from the performance and the safety, BAIC X65 is exceptional in comfort. It is equipped with comfortable leather seats, rear view camera, night vision, integrated roof controls and reading lamps.

BAIC X65 has kept every little detail in mind to make the vehicle more convenient and comfortable for you. BAIC X65 embodies all the concepts of grace and luxury in a crossover affordable for everyone.

REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENT

OAB employees lead presentations at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst MUSCAT: In conclusion of Oman Arab Bank’s (OAB) ‘Leadership Enhancement and Development’ (LEAD) programme, two highachieving groups were selected to undertake training and present their projects related to strengthening the bank’s strategies at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK. LEAD is facilitated by IDG which has a relationship with Sandhurst that goes beyond sharing the academy’s inspiring surroundings; but also shares an approach to leadership development and incorporates this in all of their leadership models. The six-month programme comprising four modules had a total of 20 participants who went through a series of

capacity-building leadership and management trainings designed to utilise best practices and provide managerial expertise and highlevel workplace solutions, says a press release.

Attending the final presentations at Sandhurst, CEO of OAB Amin Al Husseini said, “It is a remarkable achievement for these

participants to be presenting their work at the renowned Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. At OAB, we have a strong culture of fostering the talent of our employees with the aim to not only develop their professional careers but also invest in their personal development. With the success of our LEAD initiative, we are even more

deeply motivated towards our aim to prepare future leaders of the Banking and Finance Industry who will strongly contribute to the Sultanate’s national workforce.”

The LEAD programme was designed and facilitated in cooperation with Inspirational Development Group (IDG), a global leadership and management performance consultancy.

With the first three modules covering topics like development of leadership styles, self-awareness and strategic management, the final module highlighted areas such as strategic leadership and problem analysis as personal development planning including ways to self-measure progress and improve personal accountability.

MUSCAT: The Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) has announced a partnership with Gulf Exhibitions and Conferences, to host the Oman International Exhibition for People with Disabilities from March 14 - 17, 2017, and the Muscat International Exhibition for Fitness & Beauty from March 28 - 30, 2017.

Launching in 2017, both events are the first of their kind in the Sultanate with a focus on providing leading healthcare information aimed at improving the quality of life of Oman’s citizens. The two inaugural events will showcase the latest global trends, says a press release.

Following a signing ceremony, Lamyaa Raqi, CEO of Gulf Exhibitions and Conferences, and Trevor McCartney, general manager of OCEC, the newly opened convention centre, announced the home venue for the Oman International Exhibition for People with Disabilities and the Muscat International Exhibition for Fitness & Beauty, and the plans to host future editions of both events.

Balqees Al Balushi, Administrative manager of Gulf Exhibitions and Conferences stated, “We are excited to announce our first exhibitions will be held in collaboration with OCEC. The venue provides an ideal space and support needed for our large scale events. The Muscat International Exhibition for Fitness & Beauty will welcome exhibitors from many countries including United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Sweden and China as well as a large number of organisations based in Oman, with the aim of promoting a healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise and treatments.”

“Certain aspects of health can often be overlooked in society, including disability. Our goal is to provide a platform for information, insights and techniques aimed at improving the lives of people with disabilities. The Oman International Exhibition for People with Disabilities will showcase the latest advances in the field with a range of initiatives to make their lives easier and better,” Al Balushi added.

McCartney said, “We are pleased to be working in collaboration with Gulf Exhibitions and Conferences, a local company specialised in organising

We are pleased to be working in collaboration with Gulf Exhibitions and Conferences, a local company specialised in organising and managing events related to the culture of Oman.

This aligns well with Omran’s objective of stimulating growth and supporting SME’s Trevor McCartney

General manager of OCEC

and managing events related to the culture of Oman. This aligns well with Omran’s objective of stimulating growth and supporting SME’s. We share similar goals and look forward to a successful relationship. At OCEC, we are committed to providing a worldclass venue for local and international events. OCEC is owned by Omran, the master developer of iconic mixed-use urban development projects in the Sultanate.”

McCartney added, “Our goal is to become a central hub for large scale events, and to meet the needs of both our visitors and clients by providing a world class venue to facilitate businesses in Oman. By hosting local and international exhibitions, OCEC is contributing to the diversification of Oman’s economy and bringing new and exciting events to the region.”

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Chip-based cards for Bank Nizwa customers Bank Nizwa’s new EMV cards contain state-of-the-art computer chips designed to provide the highest levels of security at all times

MUSCAT: Providing enhanced security and greater functionality, Bank Nizwa is inviting customers across the Sultanate to exchange their magnetic stripe cards for the Bank’s EMV chip-based debit cards.

Launched earlier this year as part of the Central Bank of Oman’s nationwide EMV migration campaign, customers are required to switch their cards at their nearest Bank Nizwa branch by January 1, 2017. To

date, Bank Nizwa’s successful rollout of EMV technology has enabled thousands of customers to enjoy safe and convenient transactions at millions of merchants worldwide, says a press release.

Khalid Al Kayed, acting CEO of Bank Nizwa, said, “We have seen a noticeable transformation in

Oman’s financial sector aimed at embracing the EMV smart technology. This transformation is a result of continuous efforts lead by the Central Bank of Oman to encourage adaptation of such an international payment system and contribute to the constantly evolving financial landscape in the

Sultanate. With the EMV built-in smart chip technology gaining momentum in Oman, a new window of opportunity has been created to help users to lead financially secure lifestyles.”

Bank Nizwa’s new EMV cards contain state-of-the-art computer chips designed to provide the highest levels of security at all times.

Also known as ‘Chip and Pin’ technology, they feature cutting-edge microprocessors used to authenticate each transaction. Perfect for every occasion, the new chipbased cards enable safer, smarter and more secure transactions across ATMs and Point of Sale (POS) terminals.

He added, “From the onset, Bank Nizwa has been prioritising innovation in every facet of its operations to provide customers with unique and secure banking experiences. As Oman’s first fully-fledged Islamic bank, we were vigilant early on, and will continue supporting the Central Bank of Oman’s efforts to increase usage and highlight the benefits of this technology.”

ENHANCED BANKING EXPERIENCE

Bank Sohar One-Minute mobile banking application hits 10,000 users milestone MUSCAT: Bank Sohar’s OneMinute mobile banking app, which has been steadily growing in popularity with the bank’s customers since it went live in June, has reached the 10,000 users milestone in under six months.

With a simplified user interface and feature rich capabilities, the app has proven itself to offer the bank’s customers increased convenience, absolute security and an enhanced banking experience on the go, says a press release.

Commenting on the popularity of the Mobile Banking App, Mujahid Said Al Zadjaly, DGM of IT and Alternate Channels said, “Right from the very beginning our mobile banking app was designed with one goal in mind – to offer the convenience of mobile banking to our customers together with market leading levels of security

and simplicity. Its steady growth in popularity with our customers since its launch is a clear indication that we have succeeded in achieving this goal.”

In order to use Bank Sohar’s mobile banking app, customers need only follow a simple selfregistration process through the app itself after having downloaded it from Google Play or Apple App Store (depending on the operating system). Once registered, the app allows users to monitor their Bank Sohar accounts with realtime account balance overviews, view mini statements, conduct fund transfers (self-fund transfer, transferring within Bank Sohar Accounts and transferring within Oman), pay utility bills, top-up mobiles, request cheque books, settle credit cards dues, and even renew fixed deposit accounts. Fur-

thermore, using the very latest in technology and security features, the app ensures users the highest levels of data privacy and security at all times.

“We are consistently working towards evolving the app and improving or adding to the comprehensive list of services it already provides. In doing so, we can ensure our customers continue to enjoy the best mobile banking experience possible through our app with each new update,” added Mustafa Mohammed Zafarullah, head of Alternate Channels.

Alongside the Mobile Banking App, Bank Sohar also offers customers access to its comprehensive Al Mumayaz Internet Banking service, providing them with real time access to their accounts through a web based portal. Apart from convenient account balanc-

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es, a bouquet of services are also offered; which include transferring funds, conduct online utility payments, view account statement, instant transfers to a leading bank in India, transaction history and many more other features that allow for total freedom in managing money anytime and anywhere.

Furthermore, it is a simple yet secure way to bank, offering high level security system to ensure data privacy and security of all transactions. The bank also offers its internationally benchmarked Al Mumayaz SMS Banking Services; providing customers with automated alerts of any transactions on the user’s account directly on their mobile phones. In addition to providing host of valuable services such as self-fund transfer, requesting mini statement, enquiring cheques status and many more features.

TEST DRIVE

Nissan streamlines customer experience with Drive Innovation DUBAI: Always looking to push boundaries and deliver the very best experience to its customers – including potential ones – Nissan has turned its attention to something that has remained fundamentally unchanged in the industry for decades: the test drive.

Called Nissan Drive Innovation, Nissan has crafted an individual, highly personalised process that is already engaging with potential customers in a way never before experienced, says a press release.

“Nissan promises ‘Innovation that Excites’,” said Samir Cherfan, Nissan Middle East’s managing director, “and that’s something that should not be limited to our existing customers only.

Now anyone who shows interest in test-driving a new Nissan will be treated to an experience that’s personal to them. We are all individuals and the cars we drive are outward expressions of our personalities – to have the initial customer interaction individually tailored to each person will demonstrate Nissan’s commitment to providing standard setting levels of customer service and satisfaction.”

Nissan Drive Innovation gets the entire customer journey off to the best possible start, in a way that sets Nissan apart from the competition. Harnessing the immense power of social media, users of platforms such as Twitter and Facebook are invited to book test drives by using the hashtag #NissanME or by retweeting the original post @NissanME. Before an appointment is created and confirmed for a test

drive, respondents are asked a small number of straightforward questions, including their full names, what car they currently own, which Nissan model they would like to test (from a choice of Sentra, Altima, Maxima, XTrail or Patrol) and who their favourite music artist is.

The information gleaned from this short survey is then used to customise the experience based on the guests’ musical preferences, with a playlist of their favourite music to be played during the test drive. Individual test routes are put together, too, in order to highlight the unique capabilities of each model available for test drives.

“This is an extremely effective way for Nissan to demonstrate the technological and engineering excellence that is packed into every model it makes,” concluded Cherfan. “The benefits of our Smart Car App features need to be experienced to be believed, with interactivity between the cars and the technology we all carry around in our pockets or on our wrists – interactivity that promotes Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility by making driving more rewarding and safer on many levels.”

As part of the Nissan Drive Innovation programme, a dedicated ‘on-the-ground’ team ensures that guests are personally welcomed and that the entire test drive process meets the set objectives set by Nissan.

Nissan Drive Innovation is currently being deployed across the region after its Dubai debut, with Nissan’s dealer partners in Abu Dhabi leading the way before Qatar and Oman come on stream, too.

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Registration opens for Bank Muscat al Wathbah Businesswomen’s award Encouraging entrepreneurial skills, the award recognises businesswomen for playing an important role in contributing to the country’s economy

MUSCAT: Bank Muscat, the flagship financial services provider in the Sultanate, is all set to reward outstanding SME initiatives by women entrepreneurs as registration has opened for al Wathbah Businesswomen’s Awards 2016.

The second edition of al Wathbah Businesswomen’s Awards comes as part of the bank’s ‘Let’s

Do More’ vision and commitment to partnership in supporting women entrepreneurs for making a mark with successful business projects. Encouraging entrepreneurial skills, the award recognises businesswomen for playing an important role in contributing to the country’s economy. Applicants can make online registration for

the award on www.bankmuscat. com and the last date for registration is 15 January 2017.

Fatma Al Maskiry, AGM – SME Credit, Marketing and Regional Corporates, said: “Bank Muscat is

proud to have initiated a series of innovative programmes benefiting SMEs. al Wathbah Businesswomen’s Award has become a major annual celebration aimed at appreciating and recognising Omani women entrepreneurs who demonstrate excellence in their business and benefiting the community. We are happy that al Wathbah Businesswomen’s Award has set a benchmark for business development initiatives by Omani women entrepreneurs. The award complements the series of initiatives launched by the bank as part of a comprehensive plan to support women entrepreneurs in Oman.”

The eligibility for the award includes that applicants must be Omani women and their business should be registered or a home business. Any woman registered in

Audi A3, a model of success: Two decades, three generations

tor Show. In 2016, each and every variant in the entire model series received a technology update.

The Audi RS 3 Sportback is the sporty spearhead of the model series. The first generation was launched in 2011 with a 340 hp, five-cylinder engine. The second edition of the RS 3 Sportback with 367 hp followed in 2015.

At this year’s Paris Motor Show, Audi presented the RS 3 Sedan – the first compact notchback Audi with an RS badge. The RS 3 sedan is powered by a 2.5 TFSI engine with 400 hp, the most powerful five-cylinder engine on the market.

Cockpit: Analog to digital The first and second generation of the Audi A3 rolled off the assembly line with an analog speedometer and tachometer. The current A3 is available with the optional Audi virtual cockpit. The all-digital cockpit depicts the most important driving-relevant information in high resolution on a TFT screen with a 12.3-inch diagonal. The driver can switch between two views by pressing the “View” button on the multifunction steering wheel. In Classic mode, the instruments are as large as conventional analog instruments. In Infotainment mode, however, a central

window dominates. It provides more space for the navigation map or displays easy-to-read lists from the Telephone, Radio and Audio functions. Tachometer and speedometer are displayed here as small round gages.

Drive system The A3 is also the forerunner in the Audi model portfolio when it comes to drive system variants.

Besides eight conventional gasoline and diesel engines, the A3 model series has also been available with two alternative drive systems since the launch of the third generation: a natural gas-powered model and a plug-in hybrid.

The Audi A3 e-tron is the brand’s first plug-in hybrid. It pairs a 1.4 TFSI with an electric motor. The combustion engine produces 150 hp and delivers 250 Nm of torque; these figures for the electric motor are 75 kW and 330 Nm. The system power of 204 hp enables sporty driving performance. When connected to a 380 volt three-phase outlet, it takes just over two hours to fully recharge the lithium-ion battery (8.8 kWh).

The model series offers another alternative drive system with the A3 Sportback g-tron: the compact five-door model can also use Audi

e-gas, whose production is virtually climate neutral, as an alternative to fossil natural gas. Equipped with a 1.4 TFSI engine producing 110 hp, the A3 Sportback g-tron sets standards for efficiency and economy. Thanks to the four-cylinder engine’s configuration for bivalent fuels, its range is over 400 kilometres in the NEDC cycle with natural gas fuel. When powered by gasoline, the driving range is extended by as much as an additional 900 kilometres.

The racing-inspired electrohydraulic dual-clutch transmission made its debut in an Audi volume production model with the second-generation A3. It enabled sporty driving thanks to lightningfast gear changes with no break in propulsive power. Today the S tronic dual-clutch transmission is firmly established and is available in nearly every model family.

Halogen to Matrix LED The A3 reflects the development of lighting technology over the last 20 years. The first Audi A3 was equipped with halogen lights. Today the premium compact comes standard with xenon headlights.

Optional Matrix LED headlights illuminate the road with a light very similar to daylight without causing glare for other road users.

15 LEDs in each Matrix LED headlight radiate from three reflectors to produce the high beam.

A camera on the interior mirror feeds information to the controller. The controller turns individual LEDs on or off as needed, or dims them in 64 steps. The Matrix LED headlights can thus realise several million different light distributions. They specifically illuminate road signs with 30 percent less power to prevent glare caused by reflections.

Haya Water customer service centre offers variety of services MUSCAT: Haya Water takes utmost care to listen and respond to all questions and queries of citizens and residents. The customer service centre in Haya Water addresses these queries and implement associated projects based on the company’s plans and aspirations.

Haya Water has established the customer service centre to receive proposals, inquiries and complaints, either through the call centre, or via the e-mail of the company. The team of the customer service centre welcomes all clients who are visiting the centre in the main building of the company (Bait Haya).

In addition, there are other communication channels that enable the clients to communicate directly with the company, says a press release.

The centre offers a variety of services to various members of the society including connecting buildings and facilities to the wastewater network. The centre also issues no-objection certificates and permits and issues necessary permits to instal external sun shades for houses. Moreover, it provides high quality treatment water/ effluent for the irrigation of green spaces, as well as the yellow sewage tankers to transfer wastewater from any areas and houses that are not connected to the wastewater network.

Yousef Al Balushi, acting customer service manager in Haya Water said: “Customer service centre receives clients’ suggestions and requests, as well as different complaints through the company’s various communication channels. The centre staff has responded to nearly 93.7 % of the calls within a period of 10

seconds from January to the end of November of this year. It is worth mentioning that the call centre is reachable from 6am to 10pm. Moreover, all complaints are usually addressed as quickly as possible and the centre has received about 19,139 different calls during this year.”

It should be noted that the centre responds to various queries and complaints including blockages and overflow of wastewater and treated effluent networks.

The centre also responds to complaints related to its projects that are implemented in various areas. As a result, field services team has achieved 96.29% in visiting the sites within an hour and a half from the time of receiving the complaint during the year.

Al Balushi added that the customer service centre annually deals with a lot of general correspondences from citizens and residents. In fact, the centre was able to achieve 100% in responding to those inquiries and applications within a period of 10 working days. The centre has also responded to 4,151 e-mail scoring a total ratio of 100% during the period from January to November of this year.

NEW PIPELINE TECHNOLOGY

ANNUAL EVENT

IS Muladha holds athletic meet MUSCAT: The annual athletic meet 2016-17 of Indian School Muladha, was held on the lush green ground of the school recently.

Ajay Lalcheta, the captain of Oman National Cricket Team, a well-known personality in the field of cricket throughout the country and nations afar was the chief guest of the day. The scintillating opening ceremony commenced with a prayer song by the school choir followed by the National Anthems of India and Oman. The President of the School Management Committee Siddique Hassan welcomed the gathering. A bouquet was presented by the Sports Captains Mohd. Junaid and Sharon Daisy Enos of Class XI C to the chief guest who declared the meet open, amidst booming applause, says a press release.

As a symbolic representation of peace pigeons were set free by the guests into the sky. The most solemn part of the ceremony was the Torch Relay by the school’s worth mentioning sportspersons and the synchronised March Past by the students of the four houses—Muscat, Nizwa, Sur and Salalah. Junaid, administered

The objective of this ongoing educational initiative is to impart the required skills and guidance for entrepreneurs drawn from diverse fields to embark on successful SME business ventures. al Wathbah Women Business Forum is a first-of-its-kind networking initiative to provide guidance and help for women entrepreneurs to develop the requisite attitude, skills and abilities for leadership in business. The main objective of the forum is to play an important role in filling the gaps and empowering Omani businesswomen.

Serving as building blocks for existing and prospective entrepreneurs, all these initiatives assume importance in the backdrop of the priority accorded by the government to develop the SME sector in Oman.

CUSTOMER CONVENIENCE

ANNIVERSARY

INGOLSTADT: The brand with the four rings is celebrating the anniversary of the Audi A3. The successful Audi model had its motor show premiere 20 years ago in Paris. Today the premium compact is available in a choice of four body styles, four drive systems and three trim lines.

Audi presented the Audi A3 at the Paris Motor Show in 1996. The car was developed from the ground up on the basis of the Golf IV platform, which followed in 1997.

From the very first generation, the Audi A3 has boasted innovations and quality features from higher classes, making it the founder of the premium compact class. The A3 initially was available exclusively as a three-door hatchback in three trim lines and with four different gasoline and diesel engines.

In September 1998, Audi brought quattro permanent all-wheel drive to the compact segment for the first time in the A3. A five-door variant joined the model series in March 1999.

And the brand reached a milestone with the first generation of the particularly sporty Audi S3 in the spring of that same year: the 1.8 litre, inline four-cylinder engine with turbocharging and five valves per cylinder produced 210 hp.

The split grille still used in the second-generation Audi A3 was replaced in 2005 by the Singleframe, which went on to become the brand’s defining design element. Audi also expanded the A3 family to include its first opentopped variant: The A3 Cabriolet launched in 2008 with a classic cloth top.

Now in the third generation, the Audi A3 is available for the first time as a notchback sedan. This version of the A3 celebrated its premiere at the 2012 Geneva Mo-

Bank Muscat al Wathbah Women Business Forum can also apply.

The evaluation of the projects for the awards will be based on the criteria of creativity and innovation, financial performance, leadership and commitment, sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

The bank’s al Wathbah SME department offers a comprehensive suite of tailor-made finance solutions and non-financial services targeted at small and medium enterprises. Credit facilities, both short-term and long-term in nature, are available to all sectors.

Further support is extended through non-financial services in areas of education, coaching, networking opportunities and workshops. One such example is the bank’s al Wathbah Academy.

the oath to the athletes.

To mark the day, the students of Classes I and II presented an extravagant Toy Drill followed by a very colourful Hoops Drill by the students of Classes III and IV and a Duster Drill by Class V and VI children. To mesmerise the audience a wonderful group song and a fusion dance performance were also presented by the fervent students. The Inter-house Aerobics Competition which focuses on cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength and determination held the audience awestruck.

To provide opportunities to all the students, prelims and finals of the athletic events in all the cat-

egories were conducted in a transparent manner.

The ground witnessed the final rounds of sprint events and 4 x 200 metres relay. Ajay, who was highly fascinated by the sports event, appreciated the SMC, principal and the staff for their commitment and hard work which made the mega event a grand success. Medals, trophies and certificates for the winners in all categories were distributed by the dignitaries to venerate the achievers.

The dignitaries of the school management committee and the principal presented a memento to the chief guest as a token of gratitude and appreciation.

Opal organises seminar for pipeline engineers MUSCAT: Sustainable Pipeline Systems directors from the UK gave a seminar on its new pipeline technology recently at the City Seasons Hotel in Muscat – an event organised by Opal for a specially invited group of pipeline engineering specialists.

A game changing new technology was unveiled which offers to halve both the cost and the environmental impact by automating the construction process. This is under development in the UK where scaled up pipe tests are scheduled for mid 2017 at the GL/ DnV test site in Cumbria, says a press release.

The formation of a new Omani company, SPS-MENA, was announced, in order that In Country Value for Oman can be developed throughout the new supply chain at an early stage. The seminar was attended by PDO, Oman Gas, Petrogas, Occidental, Bahwan Engineering, OHI Petroleum and Al Hassan Engineering. Each of these companies have signed up to become critical friends to SPS new technology in Oman.

Musallam Al Mandhari , CEO of Opal said: “Opal is delighted to support the introduction of new

technologies that offer concrete benefits to our oil and gas industry by delivering projects that are lower cost, ahead of schedule, secure and robust, and environmentally safe. We are especially thrilled by the prospect that the SPS-Mena joint venture will be supporting In-Country Value development through the rollout of its proprietary pipeline construction technology in the Sultanate.”

Andrew Stevenson, chair-

man of SPS Ltd said: “I was very pleased at the excellent and knowledgeable reception we received and look forward to working with Opal and other industry leaders towards demonstration of this technology in Oman. We are planning to establish a number of technology demonstration centres outside of the UK in key regions of pipeline growth and Oman is in a good position to be the first such location.”

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CHELSEA EQUAL WINNING RECORD BEATING STOKE Chelsea equalled Arsenal’s Premier League record of 13 consecutive wins in the same season on Saturday, goals from Gary Cahill, Diego Costa and two from Willian bringing the leaders a 4-2 win over Stoke City. >C3

Broom and Williamson guide New Zealand to series sweep SCOREBOARD

BANGLADESH T. Iqbal c Broom b Neesham 59 I. Kayes c Broom b Santner 44 S. Rahman c Ronchi b Henry 19 Mahmudullah c Neesham b Southee 3 S. Al Hasan run out (Ronchi) 18 M. Hossain lbw b Patel 11 N. Hasan c & b Henry 44 T. Hayder b Williamson 3 M. Mortaza c Patel b Santner 14 T. Ahmed not out 4 M. Rahman not out 0 Extras (b-1, lb-7, w-9) 17 Total (for 9 wickets, 50 overs) 236 Fall of wickets: 1-102, 2-127, 3-133, 4-141, 5-168, 6-170, 7-179, 8-212, 9-235

Williamson (95 not out) combined with Broom in a 179-run partnership that was broken when the recalled Broom was caught for 97, as the hosts cruised to 239 for two in 41.2 overs

NELSON: Captain Kane Williamson and Neil Broom both flirted with centuries as New Zealand cruised to an eight-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their third One-day International to complete a 3-0 series sweep at Saxton Oval in Nelson on Saturday.

Williamson (95 not out) combined with Broom in a 179-run partnership that was broken when the recalled Broom was caught for 97, as the hosts cruised to 239 for two in 41.2 overs. The visitors had wasted a century opening stand between Tamim Iqbal (59) and Imrul Kayes (44) to reach a below-par 236 for nine in their 50 overs.

Jimmy Neesham was 28 not out with Williamson, who eschewed the chance to score his ninth oneday international century in order to wrap up the victory instead.

Broom, who was dropped without scoring in the slips off Mustafi-

Bowling: T. Southee 10-2-45-1 (w-2), J. Patel 10-0-40-1 (w-1), M. Henry 8-0-53-2 (w-4), J. Neesham 4-0-28-1 (w-1), M. Santner 10-0-38-2 (w-1), K. Williamson 8-1-24-1 NEW ZEALAND M. Guptill retired hurt T. Latham lbw b M. Rahman K. Williamson not out N. Broom c Mortaza b M. Rahman J. Neesham not out Extras (lb-3, w-6) Total (for 2 wickets, 41.2 overs) Fall of wickets: 1-10, 2-195 Did not bat: C. Munro, L. Ronchi, M. Santner, T. Southee, M. Henry, J. Patel

ALL SMILES: New Zealand players celebrate series victory over Bangladesh on Saturday. – AFP

zur Rahman, scored 109 not out in the second match at the same venue two days ago, having been recalled to the side for the series more than six years after he last played a one-day international for New Zealand. New Zealand were

rarely troubled in their run chase, though faced injury concerns with Martin Guptill having to retire hurt after he pulled up while running an easy single. The visitors would rue wasting their good start when they lost Imrul in the 22nd over and

CRICKET

Broom replaces injured Guptill in New Zealand T20 squad NELSON: New Zealand opener Martin Guptill will miss the Twenty20 series against Bangladesh with a hamstring injury and will be replaced by in-form batsman Neil Broom, the country’s cricket board said on Saturday.

Martin Guptill will be sidelined for up to four weeks after he sustained the injury while running between the wickets in the third one-day international against Bangladesh at Saxton Oval in Nelson on Saturday.

Fine form Neil Broom was in fine form during the ODI series against Bangladesh, scoring 109 (not out) and 97 runs in his last two innings as the hosts completed a 3-0 series sweep.

“We needed to replace an attacking opening batsmen and with Neil’s experience opening in the T20 format and his current form — he was a ready-made re-

TIMELY CALL: New Zealand’s Neil Broom bats during the third One-

day International cricket match match against Bangladesh. – AFP

placement,” coach Mike Hesson said in a statement.

“Martin also leads our fielding in white ball cricket and so we’re expecting Neil to be a big contrib-

utor in that area as well.”

New Zealand will begin their three-match Twenty20 series against Bangladesh at McLean Park on Tuesday. - Reuters

OMAN MILITARY TEAM HOLD SUDAN’S AL HILAL

Oman Military Football Team played out a goalless draw with Sudan’s Al Hilal Club in a friendly match in Egypt. Oman team are currently training in Egypt as part of their preparations for the forthcoming CISM Military World Cup, which will be hosted by the Sultanate from January 15 to 28. — Supplied photo

scored just 39 runs in the next nine overs, while losing three wickets, and left too much for their lowermiddle order and bowlers to do.

Nurul Hasan scored an entertaining 44, which included a four and six on the first two balls of the

final over by Matt Henry, who then took a good diving catch to dismiss the wicketkeeper and only conceded one run on the last three balls.

The two sides now head to Napier for the first of their three Twenty20 matches on January 3. - Reuters

6 4 95 97 28 9 239

Bowling: M. Mortaza 7-0-36-0 (w-4), M. Rahman 9.2-2-32-2 (w-1), T. Ahmed 7-041-0 (w-1), S. Al Hasan 8-0-55-0, T. Hayder 2-0-20-0, S. Rahman 3-0-20-0, M. Hossain 4-0-26-0, Mahmudullah 1-0-6-0 Umpires: C. Brown & C. Shamshuddin TV umpire: Paul Reiffel Match referee: Chris Broad Result: New Zealand won by 8 wickets

C2

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

SPORTS

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PCB gets green light for legal action against BCCI PCB chairman Shaharyar Khan and Najam Sethi to sue Indian board for not honouring the MoU

KARACHI: The Board of Governors of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday gave approval for adopting legal recourse against the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for not honouring the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two boards in 2014 to play bilateral series.

PCB chairman Shaharyar Khan and Najam Sethi, who heads the

executive committee, told the media here after a meeting of the BOG that the members had given approval for using legal channels to seek compensation for the financial losses suffered by the PCB due to India not honouring the MoU. “We will start legal consultations soon over the matter as the BOG has today given approval.

The fact is that the BCCI signed a MoU document with us to play six bilateral series between 2015 and 2022,” Khan recalled.

“The International Cricket Council (ICC) is witness to this MOU. We will now be consulting our legal team to take up the matter of India not playing us under the MoU with the BCCI and at the ICC level,” Khan said.

Sethi made it clear that the PCB had until now been patient with the Indian board despite them disregarding the MoU. “But now our patience has also run out be-

Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Shaharyar Khan.

cause we were supposed to host two home series under the MOU from which we could have earned millions of estimated revenues.

But since they are not honouring the MoU we have suffered losses,” Sethi, who signed the MoU when he was chairman of the board, said.

India has not played a bilateral series with Pakistan since 2007

when Pakistan toured India for a full Test series. The PCB claims that India owes it two home series which translates into millions of dollars for Pakistan cricket.

In January, the PCB even agreed to host a short one-day series in Sri Lanka as part of the MoU but the BCCI backed out by stating they had not clearance from their

government for the series. Khan said when the BCCI was so reliant on their government for playing Pakistan they should have thought about it before signing the MoU. “We will now take up this matter with the ICC because the Indian board claims it has been stopped by its government from playing us.

“We have the MoU to back us and we want to see the instructions from their government in writing,” he added.

He said it was unfortunate that the BCCI had not honoured a written agreement. Khan also announced that the board had decided to leave the decision of retirements to senior players Misbah-ul Haq, Younis Khan and Shahid Afridi.

“We will not take any decision they will have to decide themselves when they feel it is the right time to retire. We want to ensure they are the ones taking this decision,” he said. -PTI

TENNIS

Murray ends landmark year with win over Raonic ABU DHABI: World number one Andy Murray ended 2016 with a 6-3, 7-6(6) win over bigserving Canadian Milos Raonic to take third place at the year-ending exhibition tournament Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.

The 29-year-old Scot succumbed to a surprise loss to Belgian David Goffin on Friday, having ended the official season with a 24-game string of wins.

“It was good to finish the year with a win. It was a good match to work on returns as Milos has a strong serve,” said Murray, who has just been knighted in the New Year Honours list. “I still feel like Andy Murray — that feels more normal. But I am happy with the knighthood, and it is a nice way to start the new year.”

Murray ended 2016 at the top of the men’s rankings. - Reuters

FOOTBALL

Shipping Division win KR football cup MUSCAT: Khimji Ramdas (KR) conducted its annual Inter-Division Football Cup at the Muscat Sports Club recently. The event forms part of continuous efforts to create better employee relationships through sports.

Thirty-Four teams from Khimji Ramdas various divisions delivered their best to a 2,500-strong cheering crowd of KR employees and their families.

Pankaj Khimji, Director, KR said, “The KR Annual Sports Day is an event designed to integrate employees from all our divisions outside the workplace.

“We believe that sports bring out the best in employees – it builds team spirit, encourages team work and creates a stronger inter-departmental network. This event is the perfect opportunity for employees to interact with their peers in an informal environment.”

One of the participants, Ahmed Mohammed Al Khindi, had this to say, “Football is our passion. As a long serving employee of Khimji Ramdas, I am delighted to see my colleagues from different nationalities join hands to make this day memorable.

“I thank my company directors for conducting events like this to bring in a strong sense of camara-

TRIUMPHANT SMILES: Khimji Ramdas Shipping Division captain receives the Khimji Ramdas Foot-

ball Cup from Kanak Khimji as Pankaj Khimji looks on. – Supplied photo

derie and friendship outside our office spaces.”

The day-long tournament was a true celebration of sport and athleticism with fans cheering thun-

derously for their favourite teams as the battle of the best game raged on well into the night.

Khimji Ramdas Shipping Division won the tournament trophy

after they scored a 4-0 goal victory. Runners-up were Khimji Office Furniture Division whose team put up an equally stoic fight on the field.

GOLF

Woods will get ‘at least one win’ next year NEW YORK: Tiger Woods celebrated his 41st birthday on Friday and long-time friend and fellow professional Notah Begay III predicts he will have more to celebrate in a triumphant return to the PGA Tour in 2017.

Though Woods has competed only once over the past 16 months due to chronic back problems that required multiple surgeries, Begay was encouraged by that solitary tournament appearance earlier this month in the Bahamas.

Woods made his long anticipated return at the Hero World Challenge which he hosts and despite delivering mixed form he ended the week with a tournament-high aggregate of 24 birdies.

“I don’t think anybody in the inner circle, including Tiger, could have been happier,” Begay told Reuters about Woods’ performance in the elite, limited-field event.

“There was a lot of curiosity

around what was going to happen, what his swing was going to look like how his mind was going to adjust to the tournament environment because it’s just so different, you can’t recreate that focus in practice.

“For him to go out and make more birdies than anybody else in the field after being on the shelf for 15 months was quite remarkable. He’s seeing some definite returns on the time that he’s put in with regard to his recovery.”

Woods has already committed to playing in the PGA Tour’s Genesis Open at Riviera Country Club from Feb. 16-19 and is also expected to tee it up three weeks earlier in the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines.

Peaking by spring Begay, a 44-year-old Native American who won four times on the PGA Tour, has forecast that Woods will hit top form by

the opening major of the year, the April 6-9 Masters.

“I expect him to win, and I expect him to have at least one win next year based upon what I’ve seen,” said Begay, who played with Woods on the Stanford University golf team. “It’s just a matter of getting some more tournament rounds. I’m not going to say it’s going to happen early in the year but I think you should expect to see Tiger peak during the spring time.”

For all the birdies accumulated

by Woods over the four rounds of the Hero World Challenge, the roller-coaster nature of his form was illustrated by the fact that he also led the field with six double-bogeys.

Former PGA Tour winner Brandel Chamblee, who like Begay works as a Golf Channel analyst, was impressed by Woods’ wedge game from outside 70 yards but said that his chipping

and driving needed fixing. “There wasn’t anything that took place in the Bahamas that wasn’t fixable,” said Begay. “I don’t think Tiger was comfortable with his threewood but that’s fixable.”

Begay said he thought it was too early to tell about Woods’ accuracy off the tee.

“He hit something like 52 drivers in the Bahamas and you’ve got to see at least a few hundred before you start figuring out what the patterns and trends are.”

Woods bladed a few bunker shots over greens during the Hero World Challenge but Begay saw no indication of the chipping yips that afflicted the former world number one in early 2015.

“The majority of chips that I saw around the green that might cause some problems he executed very well, his bunker game was solid, his little feel shots around the green were good,” said Begay.- Reuters

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

C3

SPORTS Chelsea extend lead, Pogba lifts United with only five minutes to play and a minute later Pogba earned United their fifth successive league win.

Chelsea’s win against Stoke City made 13 successive victories for Antonio Conte’s side, equalling the record by any club for a single season in the top division of English football

LONDON: Chelsea were given a stiff examination by Stoke City at Stamford Bridge on Saturday before extending their lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points ahead of the late game between Liverpool and Manchester City.

Willian scored twice as a spirited Stoke were beaten 4-2 despite twice coming back to equalise.

That made 13 successive victories for Antonio Conte’s side, equalling the record by any club for a single season in the top division of English football.

They were pushed hard, however. After defender Gary Cahill headed in a corner, Dutch international Bruno Martins Indi brought

Stoke level. Willian then scored twice in eight minutes in the second half, on either side of Peter Crouch tapping in for his first Stoke goal since May 2015.

Chelsea could not feel secure until Diego Costa, back after suspension, scored his 14th of the season.

Sixth-placed Manchester United fell behind at home to Middlesbrough before goals from Anthony Martial and Paul Pogba in the last five minutes brought about a 2-1 win. Aitor Karanka had proved a match for his mentor Jose Mourinho, under whom he once worked at Real Madrid, and Grant Leadbitter scored for the visitors midway through the second half after

TWIN STRIKES: Chelsea’s Willian, left, celebrates with teammates

after scoring their second goal during the Premier League match against Stoke City at Stamford Bridge in London on Saturday. – AFP

Alvaro Negredo nodded down a cross for him.

It was Middlesbrough’s first attempt on target.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, with 11

goals in his previous 10 games, was annoyed to have a 12th ruled out in the first half, for a high foot.

Martial, who had earlier hit a post for United, brought them level

TA B L E T E N N I S

Manavi claims two titles at MTTA Open Table Tennis Tournament MUSCAT: Manavi Sarawanan claimed two titles in the Open Table Tennis Tournament organised

by Muscat Table Tennis Academy (MTTA) at the Oman Bowling Centre here recently.

The tournament, which was sponsored by Oman Bowling Centre, attracted 50 players in various categories.

Manavi took top honours in the girls under-12 and under-14 competitions. In the final of the under-12, Manavi defeated Dimple Malviya 3-1 while in the under-14 summit clash, she defeated Surabhi 3-2.

Manavi narrowly missed out on her third title when she lost the girls under-17 final to Arundhati Ramesh by a 3-2 margin.

In the boys under-12 final, Rahul Raj edged Arvind Prabhu 3-2 while in the under-14 boys title match, Sanskar Dubey defeated Allen by 3-1.

Sanskar was, however, denied his second crown when he was beaten 3-0 by Shounak Kelkkar in the boys under-17 final match.

The top place in the under-10 category, which was a mixed event, went to Kevin. In the final, Kevin defeated Alen Joseph 3-1.

CHAMPIONS ALL: Winners in various categories pose for a group after the conclusion of the Muscat Table Tennis Academy-organised Open Table Tennis Tournament. – Supplied photo

Ali Khatab, Managing Director of Oman Bowling Centre, presided over the prize-giving ceremony and handed over the trophies to all the winners.

Results (all finals): U-10 (mixed): Kevin bt Alen Joseph 3-1. U-12 boys: Rahul Raj bt Arvind Prabhu 3-2. U-12 girls: Manavi Sarawanan bt Dimple Malviya 3-1. U-14 girls: Manavi

Sarawanan bt Surabhi 3-2. U-14 boys: Sanskar Dubey bt Allen by 3-1. U-17 girls: Arundhati Ramesh bt Manavi Sarawanan 3-2. U-17 boys: Shounak Kelkkar bt Sanskar Dubey 3-0.

MUSCAT CRICKET COACHING CENTRE BOYS TRAIN IN BANGALORE

Twenty-one traineers of Muscat Cricket Coaching Centre (MCCC) underwent a training camp in Bangalore from December 18 to 30. The 12-day extensive training camp was organised at Just Cricket Academy in Bangalore under the able guidance of Naziruddin and his team of coaches. The boys who underwent training were Vivek Shreeraman Nair, Vikram Nabira Sandeep, Yash Hemal Mehta, Siddh Hemal Mehta, Jeel Yagnesh Tanna, Gyaan Ganesh, Arhaan Ranjan, Rajkumar Narendra Tanna, Aum Nrupen Kanani, Venkat Raman Rao, Piyush Sivakumar, Ciranjeevan Reddy, Arya Hemal Sampat, Devansh Hemal Sampat, Krish tilak Shettigar, Shashank Ram Mohan, Dhruv Lotia, Arjun Suresh Dhiman, Bharat Ramkrishnan, Neev Jayprakash and Nihal Jayprakash. — Supplied photo

Red card West Bromwich Albion moved above Southampton into eighth place by coming from behind to beat them 2-1 at St Mary’s.

The home side led just before halftime when Irish international striker Shane Long scored against his old club but Albion equalised within two minutes through Matt Phillips. Only four minutes into the second half Hal Robson-Kanu marked his first start of the season by thrashing in a winning goal.

Having lost late on in their previous away games at Chelsea and Arsenal, Tony Pulis’s team were able to hold on this time, as Southampton’s coveted defender Virgil van Dijk received a red card.

Leicester City, who had made the worst start of any champions for more than half a century, won an entertaining game 1-0 at home to West Ham United.

With England striker Jamie Vardy suspended, Algerian Islam Slimani headed the only goal to

end the London side’s improved run of three successive victories.

Swansea City, who sacked manager Bob Bradley earlier this week, slumped to a 3-0 home defeat by Bournemouth to leave them bottom of the table at the halfway stage of the season.

Benik Afobe, Ryan Fraser and Josh King were the scorers as Bournemouth moved back into the top half of the table.

Sunderland stayed in the relegation places with a heavy 4-1 defeat at Burnley, whose impressive home form continues to make up for having taken only one point all season on their travels.

Andre Gray scored a hat-trick in 22 minutes and Ashley Barnes added a penalty before Jermain Defoe’s late reply.

Sunderland have 14 points, two more than Swansea and one more than Hull City, who moved off the bottom with a 2-2 draw against Everton on Friday.

In the remaining weekend fixtures on Sunday, fourth-placed Arsenal have a London derby at home to Crystal Palace and fifth-placed Tottenham visit Watford. - Reuters

C4

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017

SPORTS

B DIVISION: OCT Seeb who defeated Al Mada Engineering. – Supplied photos

C DIVISION: UKI Inspired pose for a group photo after defeating Landscape Architecture.

NYDT overcome OUA Travels ald 231 for 5 in 20 overs (Javed 78; Wasim 3/37) bt Carillion 182 for 8 in 20 overs (Wasim 53; Ritesh 3/30). Points: Mott Macdonald – 3, Carillion Alawi – 0.

Batting first, OUA Travels were all out for 167 in 38.3 overs.

In reply, NYDT put on 170 for eight in 35.3 overs

MUSCAT: National Youth Development Team (NYDT) defeated OUA Travels by two wickets in an Oman Cricket’s A Division match on Friday.

Batting first, OUA Travels were all out for 167 in 38.3 overs with Jayson Delboy top scoring with 62.

Jaspreet Singh and Shoaib Ismail claimed three wickets each for NYDT. In reply, NYDT put on 170 for eight in 35.3 overs. Madhushanka top scored with 51.

Brief scores: OUA Travel 167 in 38.3 overs (Jayson 62; Jaspreet 3/18) lost to NYDT 170 for 8 in 35.3 overs (Madhushanka 51). Points: OUA Travels –0, NYDT – 4.

OCT Al Amerat win In a B Division match, OCT Al Amerat humbled FAP UTSC in a 120run victory. Batting first, FAP UTSC put on 217 for seven in 28.2 overs with Ali M top scoring with 59.

Nasser Haider and Aiman claimed

A DIVISION: National Youth Development Team celebrate their win over OUA Travels. – Supplied photo

three wickets each for Al Amerat. In reply, OCT Al Amerat were bowled out for 97 in 26.3 overs. Hamraz Nihaz and Shameer claimed three wickets each for FAP UTSC to enable the bonus point win.

Brief scores: FAP UTSC 217 for 7 in 28.2 overs (Ali M. 59; Aiman 3/39) bt OCT Al Amerat 97 in 26.3 overs (Shameer 3/12).

Points: OCT Al Amerat – 0, OCT Al FAP UTSC – 3.

OCT Seeb beat Al Mada In another B Division match, OCT Seeb defeated Al Mada Engineering by 35 runs. Batting first, Seeb scored 215 for eight in 30 overs. Yusuf Al Balushi top scored with 60.

In rely, Al Mada were all out for

181 in 25.4 overs. Shahil Mohammed top scored with 59. Abbas Al Balushi claimed three wickets for Seeb.

Brief scores: OCT Seeb 215 for 8 in 30 overs (Yusuf Al Balushi 60) bt Al Mada Engineering 181 in 25.4 overs (Shahil 59; Abbas Al Balushi 3/23). Points: Al Mada Engineering – 0, OCT Seeb - 2.

Easy for Al Mardhuf In a C Division match, Al Mardhuf defeated OCT Al Hail A by six wickets. Batting first, OCT Al Hail A were all out for 124 in 20 overs.

Shafeeq Nagori claimed three wickets for Mardhuf. In reply, Al Mardhuf scored 127 for three in 14.3 overs. Vishal Vagadia top scored with 42.

Brief scores: OCT Al Hail A 124 in 20 overs (Shafeeq 3/12) lost to Al Mardhuf 127 for 3 in 14.3 overs (Vishal 42). Points: Al Mardhuf – 3, OCT Al Hail A – 0.

UKI beat Landscape In another C Division match, UKI Inspired defeated Landscape Architecture by eight runs. Batting first, UKI Inspired were bowled out for 139 in 17.3 overs. Waqas Zaman top scored with 40. Moaz Juned claimed three wickets for Landscape. In reply, Landscape Architecture scored 131 for nine in 20 overs. Mirza Sharique claimed four wickets for UKI Inspired.

Brief scores: UKI Inspired 139 in 17.3 overs (Waqas Zaman

SALALAH CRICKET

40; Moaz 3/11) bt Landscape Architecture 131 for 9 in 20 overs (Mirza 4/26). Points: Landscape Architecture – 0, UKI Inspired – 2.

Mott Macdonald win In a D Division match, Mott Macdonald registered a 49-run win over Carillion Alawi. Batting first, Mott Macdonald piled up 231 for five in 20 overs with Javed Tanasha and Sagar Ingle scoring 78 not out and 57 respectively. Wasim Jamadar claimed three wickets for Carillion Alawi.

In reply, Carillion Alawi scored 182 for eight in 20 overs with Wasim top scoring with 53. Ritesh Lad claimed three wickets for Mott.

Brief scores: Mott Macdon-

Bank Muscat beat Pumps In a G Division match, Bank Musscat posted a three-wicket win over Multi Pumps Engineering.

Batting first, Multi Pumps Engineering put on 170 for nine in 20 overs. Vineesh Raj top scored with 60. Benny Mathew claimed three wickets for Bank Muscat.

In reply, Bank Muscat scored 173 for seven in 19.4 overs. Benny Matthew top scored with an unbeaten 39 to enable the win.

Brief scores: Multi Pumps Engineering 170 for 9 in 20 overs (Vineesh 60; Benny Mathew 3/34) lost to Bank Muscat 173 for 7 in 19.4 overs (Benny 39 n.o). Points: Multi Pumps Engineering– 0, Bank Muscat – 2.

NBO Muzn down Khalsa In an H Division match, NBO Muzn defeated Khalsa United by 12 runs. Batting first, NBO Muzn scored 166 for eight in 20 overs.

Rohit Gupta top scored with 68.

In reply, Khalsa United scored 154 for eight in 20 overs. Sushil Kadam top scored with 52. Vinod Kumar claimed two wickets for NBO Muzn.

Brief scores: NBO Muzn 166 for 8 in 20 overs (Rohit 68) bt Khalsa United 154 for 8 in 20 overs (Sushil 52; Vinod 2/32). Points: Khalsa United – 0; NBO Muzn – 2.

FOOTBALL

‘Ibra’s injury would be a ‘disaster’ for United’

BEST PERFORMERS: From left, Divin Trading’s Vishu, First Technology’s Riju, Ahbar Trading’s Imran and Zafar of Diamond City Interna-

tional receive their man of the match awards. – Supplied photos

Divin Trading, First Technology, Ahbar Trading and Diamond City record victories in Salalah Muscat: Divin Trading, First Technology, Ahbar Trading and Diamond City recorded victories in the Pocari Sweat Salalah Cricket League in Salalah.

In a Group B match, Divin Trading defeated NDTC by 15 runs. In a Group A match, First Technology posted a 53-run win over Khimji Ramdas. In a Group C, Ahbar Trading defeated Muscat Pharmacy by eight wickets while in anoth-

er Group A match, Diamond City defeated Raysut Oasis by 75 runs.

Results: Group B: Divin Trading 121 in 18.5 overs (Vishu 29, Nandkumar 19; Najim 4/14, Sujith 2/23) bt NDTC 106 in 17.4 overs (Prasad 26, Shinoy 22; Pondi 3/25, Vishu 3/13). Man of the match: Vishu (3 wkts, 29 runs).

Group A: First Technology

185 in 20 overs (Riju 102, Abi 20 runs; Dev 3/19 runs,Tanmai 2/26, Fasees 2/39) bt Khimji Ramadas 132 in 18.1 overs (Jay 26, Sagar 25; Riju 3/32, Abi 3/16 ). Man of the match: Riju (3/32, 102 runs).

Group C: Muscat Pharmacy 128 for 9 in 20 overs (Asif 38, Suresh 24; Imran 2/22, Babu 2/15, Rajesh 2/15) lost to Ahbar Trading 130 for 2 in 13.2 overs (Abhishek 47, Rajesh 30, Imran

25; Riju 1/18, Anish 1/26). Man of the match: Imran (25 runs, 2 wickets).

G Group A: Diamond City Intl 206 for 5 in 20 overs (A. Zafar 102 n.o., Adil 37, Mahamad 1/28, Biju 1/29, Sibu 1/29) bt Raysut Oasis 131 for 8 in 20 overs (Gafoor 26, Dilip 25, Shibu 22; A. Zafar 3/20, Khawar 2/9, Kafaytulilah 2/15). Man of the match: A. Zafar (3 wkts, 102 not out).

LONDON: An injury to influential striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic will be disastrous for Manchester United, according to manager Jose Mourinho, who is willing to let winger Memphis Depay leave in January for the right price.

Ibrahimovic needs one goal against Middlesbrough later on Saturday to equal the 50-goal mark of Barcelona’s Lionel Messi and few would rule out the prospect of the Swede netting a double and finish 2016 as the year’s top marksman.

“A disaster. Obviously a disaster but that’s football,” Mourinho told British media when asked how damaging it would be to lose Ibrahimovic to injury.

“It’s not a surprise (how many goals he has scored). In Spain, Messi and Cristiano (Ronaldo) have a lot of penalties to score.

They are phenomenal players with lots of penalties to score goals.

“Here, Zlatan has 18 (league) matches and one penalty. It’s not so easy to score goals.”

Depay has played just 20 minutes of Premier League football

Jose Mourinho

this season and Mourinho said he would not stand in the way of the Dutch winger leaving the club amid reported interest from Everton and Italian side Roma.

“I have to say that in the past couple of months my decisions in relation to Memphis were influenced by the feelings and information that he would like to leave in January,” Mourinho added.

“And that we were going to have a real offer that we would be willing to accept. That obviously influences me.” - Reuters

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PREMIUM VILLA FOR SALE SANTINI A3 TYPE 2 STOREY VILLA WITH 4 BEDROOMS PLUS MAID ROOM AT AL MOUJ PHASE 4.

GREAT LOCATION WITH CUL DE SAC FOR PARKING. PURCHASE OPEN TO NON-OMANIS AS WELL.

Flat for rent in Al Bustan. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 kitchen & 1 hall. Contact - 99379950 Villa for rent Ameratphase (fifth/1) Majlis , hall , kitchen . 5 bedrooms &7 bathrooms (spilt unit AC)RO 400/- per month we prefer families. Contact: 99203458 Two bedroom flat available, Show room near Honda.

Contact: 99022675 Room for rent near Al Daser Rex Road, Ruwi. Contact: 99797645 Shop for rent W. Kabir Industrial, flat for rent W. Kabir near Muscat Bakery. Contact: 99338133 A steel workshop in Sohar is looking for long lease contract for its existing welders. Interested party can select welder skills as per their needs. Call: 95414309 / 97130671 Apartment for rent, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, dining room & kitchen in Muscat, Sidab.

Contact: 91936630 / 24739181

CONTACT NO. 91257475 Family flats in Wadi Kabir MBD Hamriya Ruwi Al Khuwair, Ghubrah, Bowshar, Azaiba, Al Hail & Amerat. #95250300 / 92125648

Flats family new to the Amerat behind Oman oil. Contact: 95250300 / 92125648/ 99119699

Flat for rent Darsait 3 BHK, bathroom, kitchen &spilt A/Cs, 320/- R.O. Contact: 91093331

2 B/R & 3B/R furnished, unfurnished with split ACs a free internet available at Al Khuwair near KM hypermarket. Contact: 99460330

Optical shop for rent / sale a new well running optical shop located in a prime location in Al Khuwair sale/ rent. Contact: 99008865

Flats for rent near Indian school in Wadi Kabir. Contact: 99777122

6 Bedroom villas available for rent at North Al Hail, near Wave, complex with swimming pool and Gym. Contact: 99833747

One / Two, B/R flats in new building near Dolphin near dolphin complex, Bausher directly from owner.

Contact: 92158031

Villa Boushar, 5 BHK 500/- R.O. Contact: 95202430

House for rent in Mabelah.

Contact: 99005364

2 BHK R.O 180/- behind Bahwan building near Khimji. H.O. Contact: 95865686

1 BHK new Bldg with A/C curtains near Khimji Mart MBD. Contact: 99024039

1 BHK, 2 BHK flats available for rent in Prime MBD (South) area (near spar)with excellent maintenance. Contact: 99338401 / 99703564

Warehouse for rent area (42) SQM (8 meters clear height) in Al Misfah, opposite to Oman Cement factory also available workshops (70 SQM). Contact: 96041560

first floor three bedroom flat al Khuwair near technicalcollege are 216 SQ meters, three toilets, sitting dinning and family lounge family only. Contact: 99207840

Brand new showroom at heart of Azaiba city for rent.

Contact : 98294753

1. 2 BHK, M.B.D, R.O 250/-, 260/-.

Contact: 92144045 /97799175 2 BHK Ghubra R.O 325/- .

Contact:92144045 / 97799175 1, 2 BHK WadiKabir.

Contact: 92144045 / 97799175

Shops for rent at WK near primary IND SCH, Big shop monthly rent R.O 400/- including ceiling space small shop monthly rent 250/-, pent house1 room , 1 toilet, hall 150/-. Contact: 997445880 Abdullah 2 BHK Mumtaz. Contact: 92144045 / 97799175 2 BHK Azaiba R.O 300/-.

Contact:92144045 / 97799175 3 BHK villa MadinatSultan Qaboos, R.O 550/-.

Contact: 97799175 /92144045 Residential & commercial flats in a new building, at Muttrahfor office or shops any kind of commercial activates. More details.

Contact: 99364735/ 95729711 2 BR flat in Ruwi Market.

Contact: 92705331 1BHK flats at Al Khodh near NBO. Contact: 99224748 / 99332297 New apartment flat for rent, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms & kitchen, behind Indian School, short way to Lulu Darsait & Muttrah traditional Soqu. Contact or Whatsapp: 91013331

Villa for rent at Saal (Misfah) @200/-. Contact 94215208 Flat for rent 2BHK split A/c near Kuwaiti Mosque in Wadi Kabir.

Contact: 97007934 / 92629232 Flat for rent, 3 bed rooms with 2 bathroom, kitchen near Al Hanan Private School in Wadi Kabir.

Contact: 99718875 Villa in Al Khuwair 33, 6 bedrooms, hall & sitting room R.O 800/-. Contact: 93993354 3 bedrooms, flats available near Indian School Seeb.

Contact: 97479041 Apartment 3 bedrooms, sitting room, balcony at Al Ansab R.O 360/- monthly. Contact: 93993354 1 bed room, bathroom, kitchen in Al Hail South R.O 120/- Monthly.

Contact: 93993354 Room in Azaiba. Contact 99555843 3BHK Flat, Ghubra SG. Contact 99319880 1 bedroom attached kitchen, toilet for family in Al Khuwair RO 130/-.

Contact: 95154331

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DAILY GUIDE

FOR SALE

- New Brand Building in Bowsher for sale - Twin villa in Azaiba & Ghubra for sale - Commercial/ Residential khuwair for sale.

Land in Al

Contact Hood: 91155779

FOR SALE 1. Porta Cabin 2. Book Loader (New Holland) 3. Water Tanker (Hino 2000 Gallon) 4. Roller (JCB 3 Ton) 5. Roller (JCB & Wacker, 1 Ton) ϲ͘ ^ĐĂī ŽůĚŝŶŐƐ 7. HDPE Duct Pipes (300 mm to 1800mm) 8. Tower Hoist

Contact 93990154 FOR RENT 2BR flat- luxury fully furnished at Al Khuwair, 1 BR flat – luxury fully furnished at Al Khuwair, 5 BR villa fully furnished at Azaiba, 4 BR villa unfurnished at Azaiba, 5 BR duplex, 4 bathrooms – Qurum heights, 5 Br villa, 6 bathrooms – Madinat Sultan Qaboos (brand new), 5 BR villa at Al Hail. For short or long term lease contract. Contact Atlas Real Estate & Rent a car : 99436312 / 94617563 / 92888376

FOR SALE 2014 MODEL VOLVO PENTA 650 KVA GENSETS (02NOS) 2000 KVA (01 NO) VOLTAMP TRANSFORMER CONCEALED PANEL SYSTEM FOR ABOVE. ALL ITEMS HARDLY USED IN A COMPLETED PROJECT OF 2YRS AND CAN BE REUSED. ONLY SERIOUS BUYERS CONTACT GSM :

New villa for rent in Azaiba 18 November Street. 6 Bedrooms, 2 kitchens & 7 toilets. To view the villa contact - 95919059

ACC. AVAILABLE

92886778/99455690

Villa complex for lease renovated deluxe villa complex with separate three flats , location AL Ghobra north ( near tourist hotels) is available for lease. Contact: Ali : 99411607 , Luoy : 92466266 Apartment for rent three rooms and a hall - kichen-4bath-Next to City Centre Almwalh.

Contact 99336776 Flat for rent 2BHK split A/c near Oman house in Muttrah .

Contact: 97007934 / 92629232 Office space for rent in Muthana square, next to Atlas Hospital.

Contact : 93620021 Villa for rent in South Mabellah, 3 bedrooms, sitting room, family Lounge, kitchen, three Toilets Contact 92212212 between 10 AM to 5 PM New flats for rent at Al Ghubra near to Atlas Hospital, opposite to Panorama mall. Interested candidates Contact: 00968 – 97093283 Fully furnished room for executive bachelor in CBD area, WiFi internet free, advance deposit.

Contact: 90631572 Villa for rent 2 brand new luxurious villas (No 411 & 413) for rent in Azaiba, Each villa with 6 bedrooms, servant quarters, 2 kitchens with all modern amenities which includes split A/C, dish washers, oven, ETC , Way No 4491 / 4405 . Contact: 99462980 New flats for rent at Darsait near to ministry of sports, Mumtaz area the flats includes 1 living room , 2 bedrooms, kitchen, 3 toilets, every room with split A/C & high quality finishing. Rent per flat is RO 320/-.

Interested candidates please Contact: 00968 – 92225523 2 BR apartments available for rent, close to Muscat Grand Mall, next to Diwan’s Office, South Ghubra. Contact 2456256 / 99833747 Villa for Rent behind mazoon mousqe 7 bedroom, living room, dining room . Contact 95150809 for 750 R.O nogotiable

Single room with kitchen & bathroom MBD Ruwi.

Contact: 95698714 Spacious semi furnished room with separate bathroom for Executive bachelor Opp. O.C. Centre Ruwi. Call : 90611670 New 3 story 4 bedroom villa in Al Hail near to radio station. The spacious master bedroom has a sea view. It has a maids room.

All bedrooms have bathrooms and one extra bathroom between dining and sitting room. It has split A/c’s. 6 months advance payment required. Price is OMR 750 monthly.

Telephone: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955. No Brokers Please.

Flats & shops for rent at Ruwi Honda road Mumtaz area.

Contact: 97293708 / 92433127 1 BHK near Medical Darsait Muttrah house R.O 180/-.

Contact: 95070201 3 bedroom ground floor house for rent in South Al Hail behind Al Hail Hypermarket.

Contact: 95047657 Spacious shop available for perfumes cosmetics, near Oman house. Contact: 92150455

FOR SALE 7D Cinema for sale 6 seat hydraulic, 7D cinema full system for sale.

Contact: 99737527 Villa Shatti Al Qurum area 920 SQM. Contact: 95202430 Well running reputed travel agency for sale. Contact: 97992388 Twin Villa for sale in Azaiba near Sultan Centre. Each side has three floors, five bedroom plus maid room. Each room has it’s own bathroom and one extra toilet between dining and sitting room. The villas are now about 5 years old and very clean and well maintained. It has split A/C’s. OMR 215,000 each villa. Telephone: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955.

No Brokers Please.

BUYING Buying cars for cash.

Contact: 90202090

FOR SALE Dental clinic for sale in Seeb.

Contact: 92882209 / 96373097 400 square meters residential land in Al Ghubra south near Millenium Hypermarket. OMR 134 thousand.

Telephone: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955. No Brokers Please.

603 sq mtrs residential land in Al Hail North Block 45 NE near Radio station. OMR 96 Thousand.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 - or 97509955. No Brokers Please Industrial land AL Misfah Boushar area 30.000 SQM attractive location. Contact: 95202430 Empty shop / laundry near Camelia café. Contact: 92868123 / 92841089 Ice cream Shop, Prime location, Ruwi for sale. Contact: 92150455 BUILDING MATERIAL SHOP FOR SALEWell-furnished running building material-electrical shop (4 shutter / 200sqm) in Al- Khoudh6, for immediate sale- shop with stock or stock only. Serious buyers may please Contact: 94320909 Industrial land in Rusail.4000 sqm.

Contact 99323957 / 95490842.

Land for sale in the village of Bimmah on the coastal road Qurayat/ Sur with a space of 604 square meters for an attractive price.

Contact 92905222 Beauty parlour for sale in Ruwi.

Contact: 92430239

ACC. AVAILABLE Sharing accommodation available with W/E at Al Khuwair 33. For a small family or non-cooking bachelors. Contact - 92834145 Furnished room spacious, separate entrance, attached bathroom forexecutive bachelor, working lady near Al Nahda hospital.

Contact: 93799511 Furnished room CBD area for Executive bachelor free Wi-Fi, advance deposit. Contact: 90631572 One big room attached bathroom, sharing, kitchen near OK center Ruwi. Contact: 99716056 Fully furnished beautiful flat with Wi-Fi& allfacilities in prime location opposite Zubairautomotive,Azaiba for sharing now and can take over after few months. Contact: 98185350 Room for rent near Hamriya R/A for executive bachelor, Sharing kitchen. Contact 99640850, 97983501, 97443614 Furnished rooms with kitchen at ruwi. Contact : 91214897 Furnished room sep / entrance Wadi Kabir Executives.

Contact 99336206 Room for rent available at Al Khuwair. Contact: 91512037 Furnished room in ruwi and azaiba for rent for executive bachelors. Gsm 99058344

Furnished room for non cooking bachelor near Softy Ice cream, Ruwi. Contact 91107383 / 93120054

MV SALE 2008 Model Hyundai Tucson 93,000 KM expatriate driven in very good condition & Accident free for Sale .Serious buyers contact Mobile: 91793079 Toyota Corolla, 2009,1.800cc.

Contact: 97692959 Nissan Pathfinder, 2015 Model brown colour, 65k Mulkiya valid till 21 Aug 2017 for immediate sale.

Contact: 92820174 Toyota Corolla 2016, white colour 8000 km, 4300 R.O. Contact 92811110 Honda Accord 2008 model, 4 cylinder, number 1 full options with navigation/ camera, full insurance. No accident history, 1640000 km, well maintained.

OMR 3300/-. Contact –95919059 Dihatsu Terrios Trend 4WD, 2012 Registration, dealer service registration up to August 2017.

Contact No: 92812144

WANTED Urgently required looking to immediately buy used Grit blasting & airless spray equipment 1 No each. Contact 968 24810930 / 93203772 / 93203773 / 93203778

AVAILABLE House shifting and Transport.

Contact: 96737158 Bobcat available for rent.

Contact 97623299 Party & Wedding equipment rentals. Full line, from Tables, Linen & Skirting, Chairs & Chair covers, Cutlery, Crockery, Glassware, Chafing Dishes, Ice Sculptures, to Large Sound Systems and spectacular lighting. Call Andrea 9606 2222 for Catering and Croyden 9623 5555 for Sound & Light. ww.tunesoman. com, E-mail: info@tunesoman.com

ACC.WANTED Wanted a single room for Senior Executive Bachelor in Ruwi area.

Contact: 93708595 Wanted a family shared accommodation for Senior Executive Bachelor in Ruwi-Wuttayah area.

Please contact: 93708595

LOST Mohammad Basheer Ahmed has lost Bangladeshi Passport No. AC 7969322. Finder please handover to ROP

CHANGE OF NAME I, Pershit Prabhakar Patil, aged 45 years, residing in Oman P.O Box: 795 holder of Indian passport No. Z 3130002 issued at Muscat on 01/06/2015 hereby make oath / solemnly affirm and state as follows: As present my name is Preshit Prabhakar Patil having passport number Z 3130002 issued at Oman on 1/06/2016 would like tochange my new name as Prashit PrabhakarPaatil. This affidavit for correction spelling on my name in my passport only.

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

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S U N DAY, JA N UA RY 1 , 2 0 1 7 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT

SITUATION WANTED

Reputed mineral water company required the following HEAVY/LIGHT DUTY DRIVERS VAN SALESMAN

ACCOUNTS Indian Accountant having 13 years experience in accounts in Oman & 6 years in India, Oman driving license excellent knowledge in Tally & MS Office, Seeking suitable placement Contact: 79039690 Email: thomas.mahesh@gmail.com

with Omani driving license

SALES SUPERVISOR/SALES KͳKZ /E dKZ with Omani driving license , >W Z^ ͳ Experience 3 to5 years

Contact - 90372638

Experienced business development investment consultant with 10 years experience in the financial management field, holds a masters degree in finance and management from the UK. Contact: 90157073 MBA ( Finance) Australia, 14 years experience (world bank, U.S Based company) specialized in cost cutting , revenue maximization, financial model, budget & forecasting, internal control, risk management, Omani driving license. Contact: 93978614 Email: sjamil72@yahoo.com

ACCOUNTS Accountant with experience in Tally and finalization independently. Good English communication skill. Send CV to arabhealth@alhakkim.com Graduate in Commerce with 10 years experience, must have Oman working experience with valid Oman driving license. Interested candidates send resume to hr@aljood-oman.com Accountant 2-3 years experience.

Candidate should be Indian, English speakers. NOC is a must.

Email: mohammad.jwabreh@ bearingcitysc.com. Fax: 24509312

Urgently Required Interior designer

DRIVER Wanted expert Driver.

Contact: 97165972

vaccancyabn@gmail.com

MEDICAL

SMART MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Required Optometrist for a leading Optical group in Oman.

Email : albasilopticals@gmail.com Contact 93822557

With fluent English, for sales and marketing of medical consumables, interiors and events with Oman D/L. Visa available.

Contact:+968-90656997

MISCELLANEOUS

Excellent Grade Company requires a Diploma holder Civil Engineer/ Supervisor with 5 years experience in building construction. Please contact 99346265 or send your CV to md.artllc@gmail.com SURVEYOR /DRAFTSMAN ITI Surveyor with 2 years experience in Oman in OHL transmission lines with valid D/L and knowledge in drafting preferred # 93339586 Email: hromancv@gmail.com

Urgent required : Store labors.

Candidate should be Indian, English speakers. NOC is a must.

Email: mohammad.jwabreh @bearingcitysc.com, Fax: 24509312

Urgently required civil QA/QC candidates for areputed construction company, kindly Send your CVs to hr@oasisgreace.com Contact: 24826566,Fax:24812226 / GSM: 99881459

SKILLED LABOUR Required Experienced Auto Electrician and Automobile Mechanic for a reputed service station.

Contact : 91232638 hashim@ramainvestment.com

EDUCATION/TRAINING Required English Tutor (freelancer) for a construction company for teaching conversant English. Send your CVs to hr@oasisgreace.comContact: 24826566 Fax: 24812226 GSM: 99881459 A Well known bilingual private school is in need of Computer, English, Mathematics, Science and Kindergarten teachers.

Contact: +968 71168943 Email: staffing.oman@gmail.com

MEDICAL Urgently required Internist, Orthodontist, Physiotherapist & Lab Technician for a reputed medical center in Salalah.

Contact 99714300 Email - hrmdimc2010@gmail.com Urgently needed female dermatologist (priority for Omani) with minimum five years experience.

Please send CV to elixirhealthcenter@yahoo.com, P.S details of salary and benefits will be sent after submitting the CV. Required female Dentist, Nurses, Pharmacist, Lab Technician for a Polyclinic at Ibra.

Contact 71100596, joharaajmal2016@gmail.com Wanted female & Male Nurse with or without license (good salary, food & accommodation with other benefits. Contact 92989109, Email: medicoport@gmail.com Muscat wants GP, staff Nurse holding MOH license & Receptionist (Omani) Contact 97698004 email: medicare@fusionlogicoman.com

Qualified Chartered Accountant & ACS 10 +years Managerial experience, working in Bank, looking for suitable opening, Open to any GCC, MBL: +968-90788509, Email: kartirevy@gmail.com

Interested candidate may please send their CV to

Candidates with the following should apply: Previous experience in a similar, working for a security company Proven experience of designing and estimating large integrated CCTV, Access Control, and Perimeter detection systems.

Detailed technical knowledge of database and operating security systems associated with CCTV, access Control, with Oman license.

Send CV by mail info@sahabit.com

ENGINEER

MBA Finance Indian 25 Male 2 years experience seeking opportunities in Finance sector. Immediately available.Contact:92498840 sachu_0318@yahoo.com

(female) for promoting various types of processed and design glass in the local market.

Minimum 5 years experience with valid driving license is preferred.

DOMESTIC HELP Full time Malayalee housemaid required for a Keralite family.

Contact: 92103688

Accounts Manager looking for job in accounts or finance, 4 years Oman exp with accountancy degree & Omani D/L with NOC available.

Contact: 95661169 Email: moshin_zaman4u@hotmail.com

SALES / MARKETING Looking for a Filipino Salesman, in retail sector/food items, Muscat. hold a bachelor’s degree, 5 years’ experience, age: less than 30, ready to start immediately.

Contact 24502662 or send CV to: receptionist@mescooman.com Required Sales Manager / Working partner to run a building material shop, having minimum five years experience in same field. Mail to rajeevnarendran@gmail.com Urgently required Sales & Marketing person for a computer shop at Ruwi (IT Knowledge), Oman Driving License will be an advantage. (Preference for Keralite). Contact: 98048900.

Email: infor@smartpointcomputer. com Urgently Required Marketing Executive for a contracting Company in Sohar Minimum 3 years experience, driving license 99437086, 97745786, md@alrasen.com Sales & Marketing Lady, with musical skills for the Guitar Center Showroom in Al Khuwair.

Tel. 24489847 info@guitarcenteroman.com Looking for Salesman with GCC D/L printing press experiences.

Email: info@alsahib.net Required well experienced dynamic candidate in Real Estate Evaluation Field beside Building Management Techniques.

Contact 91246444, Email: rescooman@gmail.com

SALES / MARKETING A leading Trading group is looking for sales executives with driving license & release / NOC. Email CV to alhajoil@omantel.net.om or Fax: 24701683 Looking for an Expat staff, with experience in Oman in real estate field. Email: aburashid94dd@gmail.com

TECHNICIAN Well Known Automobile Service Company in Oman looking for Service Technicians / Mechanics and Electricians. Interested please send resumes to vyasan.united@gmail. com .Contact. 00968-91411657 Audio Visual Technician for Audio visual installation works and live events. Tel 24489847, info@tunesoman.com

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED A Filipino female searching for a job, with 3month visit visa.exp January 2017.hospitality and sales job will be a Good offer to me.

Contact no:98271658 Indian male Mechanical Engineer, 1 year Omani Experience + 2 Years of local experience, NOC available, looking for suitable position. Contact +96896089598 Email: fasinizami@gmail.com Sri Lankan Male Mechanical Engineer, 1+ year of Omani experience, NOC available, Omani driving license, looking for suitable position.

Contact No: +96893903463 Email: zaf1096@gmail.com Indian female B.E (I.T) : Good experience in documentation and CRM. Having good communication skills, seeking for job from reputed organization. Previous experience in Oman and India.

Contact - 97301058, 97136975.

MECHANICAL/PRODUCTION ENGINEER 3 years experience in production industry, B. Tech in Mech Engg, Proficiency in AutoCAD, Primavera certified.

Contact arn9895@gmail.com, Mob 00919895233155 Indian male, 24 years, B.com, MBA(Finance) with overall 3 years experience in accounts/finance field. Interested in sales field also.

On Visit Visa.

Contact:90115058/ safwanmeadows@gmail.com

Experienced indian accountant 24 years,Mcom,BBA and having accounting diploma certificate from IAB .Currently on family visa in oman,seeking suitable job opportunities.Contact : 99076506 Email: rebi.rsf@gmail.com Pakistani, ACCA (Finalist), M.A &B.Com, DL and NOC available, seeking a relevant position.

Contact: 94066698 Male accountant(B.Com) having 2 years exp. Contact: 90357503 Finance Controller, 17 years experience in accountant, procurement.

NOC available: 99251087 Sales & Accounts Manager, Indian male having long track proven record in all aspects of finance, total 9 years experience in GCC, NOC available, Ready to join immediately Mob-97200823 Emaildhirenbapodra@outlook.com Indian Male 32, B.com Graduate with 10 years experience in Accounts & Sales, 7 years in (Muscat) Oman & 3 years in India with valid Oman driving License ready to join with NOC.GSM: 96216104 Email: yensajaz@gmail.com Highly Experienced Finance Manager, CPA, ACCA-UK. MBA-USA , Professional of Banking , Audits ,ERPs Sap , Management as Team Leader and Problem Solver call 94 504505 /94403270 Indian Chartered Accountant 14+ years experience in Accounts & Finance working in Muscat looking for suitable change with Oman driving license and NOC Available.

Contact: 97728130 Email : vinoth77ca@gmail.com Indian CA 20+ years Gulf experience, finance / accounts external Audit MIS budgets cost / internal control cash flow Oman tax finalization Oracle / Tally seeks job, NOC available with valid D/L. Contact: 99104151, 95140332 Accountant male holder of Diploma Chartered Accountancy Inter have 4 years experience in finance, available at Muscat, join immediately. Contact: 79049355 / 99220572 PG in commerce male more than 8 yrs experience in purchase in Oman D/L, seeking suitable placement. Contact: 99145776 Accounts Executive B.com and MBA (finance) India, 4 years experience (per forms accounts payable&accountreceivable function,recording all receiptsand payment activities on daily basis, bank reconciliation statement.

Now in Oman on visit visa.

Contact: 91066314 Email: seenimdb3@gmail.com

Indian (M), Qualified CPA, CMA, CIA (USA), MBA (Finance) & M.Com, 15 years’ experience in Finance, Accounting & Audit, (3 years in Oman) looking for suitable Senior/Middle level position in Finance/Accounting/Audit. NOC available.

E-mail soji_ansu@yahoo.com, mob – 91595436 Experienced business development and investment consultant with 10 years experience in the financial management field. Holds a masters degree in finance and management from the UK. Contact : 90157073 Indian male MBA (finance) Accounts, Customer service, 2 yearsExperience.(Dubai Airport) Iran Airlines. GCC driving licensevalid till 2025. On Visit Visa (Till 20 Dec 2016).Looking for suitable job. Contact – 71093532. Emailmirzahassanbaig89@gmail.com Experienced Indian female 23 B.Com with computer application on visit looking for suitable position. Contact: 94964860 / 92436404 Indian male, B.Com, MBA in Finance, 4 yrs in Larsen & Tourbo, 26 yrs in Oman, English/ Arabic speaking with driving license.

NOC available. Contact 95588565 International certified credit management with 5+ years in international debt recovery validation of credit insurance claims familiar with international trade & banking standards incoterms, UCP600 , URC 500 , export documentation, languagesArabic & English. Contact: 94310453 Indian male age 26 visit visa, B.SC Mathematics 4 years experience as an accountant seeks suitable job. Contact: 98615171 / 95374978.

Email: worksite.tinson@gmail.com Part time Accountant Indian B.Com Senior Accountant more than 25 years experience in Oman upto finalization of Accounts and training accounts through tally soft ware. Contact: 93064975 Indian (M) MBA (f) more than 6 years of experience in accounts, proficiency in various A/C software SAP (F1/CO) seeking for suitable placement.

Contact: 95920740 Email Id: abdulhameed1527@gmail.com Accountant with experience in Tally and finalization independently. Good English communication skill. Send CV to arabhealth@alhakkim.com Accounts part time services available to handle all accounts up to finalization on monthly basis and finalization works.

Contact: 96247295 ACCA member with 6 yrs of experience in Oman looking for a suitable job in finance. Contact 99284193 Sudanese Accountant, Alexandria University Graduate bachelor of commerce Diploma of Marketing professional photographer worked in PR and social media for 2 years looking for a job in public relations media, social media or marketing.

Contact 96976240 Indian male 22 B.Com looking for job in accounting or data Operation special interest in accounts will be happy to hear from you.

Contact: 90758030 Email: uttiawesome@gmail.com Finance Manager B.Com, CA, CIA, 10+ years experience Indian.

Contact: 94641805 Chartered Accountant Indian B.Com, CA , CIA 10+ years experience Tally, Focus, Sap, Oracle.

Contact: 94641805 Indian male, 27 yrs, Asst. Audit Manager 3 years experience in accounts & audit in India B.Com + CA (Inter) 1st Group qualified looking for a suitable job. Contact: 0091 8281358224 / 00968 90687772 Email: pradeepsasidharan4@ rediffmail.com Accountant 8 Years Experience with D/L and NOC. #97712084

Accountant 5 years experience with NOC Contact: 90590040

Accountant available with NOC, 7 years experience in Oman.

Ready to join immediately.

Contact 98263394

Certified Public Accountant (Filipino, Male, 27-yrs-old) with four years experience, seeking suitable placement in accounting/audit, currently on visit. Contact 94959606, email: czesar.42@gmail.com

Finance Manager, 17 + years Gulf exp. in Accounts, MIS, budgets, strategic planning, cost control, cash flow management, seeks job. Contact 99489784, E mail :- vijay.564@hotmail.com

Indian male 25 yrs, Graduate in commerce, overall 5 yrs exp in accounts/ finance field. On visit visa. Immediately available.

Contact 92836216 / muhammad.tausif623@gmail.com Qualified and experienced MBA post graduate with proven work exposure in Middle East & India, having more than 5.5 years of rich experience in accounts , project coordination and administration in (3.5 years UAE experience) oil and gas projects is currently looking for suitable job. Contact 93953613, Email-allen.mathew83@gmail.com Indian male age 26, Accountant one year experience in accounts looking for suitable job. Contact Email: anishkhan991867@gmail. com Mobile: +968 9565 9415 Finance manager, MBA finance 21 yrs of MNC contracting experience, looking for a job thorough knowledge in MIS Ext/ Int Audit, tax budget, trade finance, system implementation etc.

Contact: 94652975 Email: ramu2587@hotmail.com 28/male/MBA - finance/B.Com Accountant with 4 years of Dubai/ India experience looking for a suitable placement. #90187483 shobinkarikkan1987@gmail.com Indian male 45 looking for a job in Car driving. Oman License from last 20-22 years. Contact 9961 3513, Email : Miqbal.kaa@gmail.com Indian, Kerala Male B.COM & B.PE, Currently on Visit Visa. Looking for a suitable job in Accounts, Store Keeper, Sales etc. Ready to join as early as possible. Contact 96988923 email:- sajith3969@gmail.com 8 yrs exp. in Admin & Accounts (3 yrs in Oman), MBA, exp. in Tally ERP 9, Indian (F) seeks placement.

Contact 97243806 Indian male 26 years Graduated having over all 5 years experience in Accounts ware house fields sales & marketing, NOC available.

Contact 95307619 / 92237173 Indian, Kerala, CMA-USA, ICWA, Mcom 10+Years Experience Budgeting Planning MIS Accounts&finance.Cont.94064931shijupnarayanan@gmail.com Indian female 28 yrs B.Com 4 yrs experience in MNC’s currently in Muscat seeking suitable placement in Finance / Admin.

Contact :94743790 7 Years experience as Financial Analyst, MBA in finance. Responsibilities- research contributor, financial statement analysis, generating MIS & efficiency report, managing TAT, business & clients.

On visit visa in Muscat.

Contact 90191628 / 96175780 Indian female, 26 years,brought up in oman,M.COM(FINANCE) CA Foundation(CPT),CA , INTER (DOING) presently on family visa seeking for immediate and suitable placement.

Contact -97174201/99663957 Email-anishasasi@gmail.com Indian male 34 Yrs, Dual MBA Finance and marketing with IT skills, 7+ yrs of experience, Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 94879615, Emailsajan_chacko1981@yahoo.com Accountant B.com Indian male 12 yrs exp seeks suitable job.NOC available . Contact : 91212471 Email: rennyj6@gmail.com Omani female Accountant, 32 years, having 10 years exp in admin/accounts seeks suitable placement. Contact: 93295953 Indian male 34 Yrs, Dual MBA Finance and marketing with IT skills, 7+ yrs of experience, Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 94879615, Emailsajan_chacko1981@yahoo.com Indian (M), 31 yrs, M Com 9 yrs experience in Oman, looking for Manager or Executive position in Fin & Accounts, NOC Available.

Contact 96166178/+919768537435: mohammednajeem@yahoo.com

ADMIN Young Omani male have experience 12 years as P.R.O, CLERK Helper Supervisor Admin Supervisor, H.R Manager have vocational M.B.A diploma in H.S.E, IT and P.D.O license, looking for H.R position or P.R.O part time or full time.

Contact: 95933288

S U N DAY, JA N UA RY 1 , 2 0 1 7

D5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED Sr. Accountant with SAP/ERP. 11yrs experience in Accounts & Finance in Gulf.

5years in reputed Oil & Gas company; &ŝŶĂůŝnjĂƟ ŽŶ Θ ŽŶƐŽůŝĚĂƟ ŽŶ &^͕ D/^͕ Audit, Budget, AP & AR, Tax, etc., /ŶĚŝĂŶ DĂůĞ͕ WŽƐƚͲŐƌĂĚƵĂƟ ŽŶ͕ Oman D/L and NOC available.

Please contact: 931 42923

ADMIN Omani lawyer & legal adviser experience in Business administration,HR, staff training.

Contact: 97243393 Email: mum30033@yahoo.com Omani male (HR or PRO) having 06 years experience and have diploma in business management looking for a suitable position.

Contact: 99460164 Indian Female, MBA-HR having 8+ experience in Administration/ HR, Customer Support, Office Coordinator with good Computer skill, Now on Visit Visa, looking for suitable position.Contact 90196235 8 years experience in administration and guest relations department in Oman With valid omani driving licence. Seeking suitable jobs. Ph: 98145825 email: getcb@rediffmail.com Indian male having 25 years of experience working as Store Incharge in a leading automobile dealer, seeks suitable job.

Contact: 99730141 8 Years Experienced Graduate Omani Female presently working as Administration Manager in a reputed group Company, supervising HR and other administration activities, liaisoning with Ministries and other Government departments looking for suitable opening in a progressive professional organization. Contact: 91727742 Omani, male, 26 yrs experience looking for job in reputed Companies as PR, having experience at airport / Emigration, Ministries/ Manpower with Oman D/L. Contact 95445779 7 years experienced in Administration & Sales with valid Oman driving license searching for a suitable job. Contact: 93347156 Omani experience on reception, admin PRO seeks job.

Contact: 96495545 / 96184616 Administrator B.Com with D/L on release, 30 years India & Gulf experience in office. project documentation & logistics.

Contact: 92324789 / 97281023 Filipino HRD especialist /material controller supervisor with 18 yrs experience looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact: (+968) 98037142 / (+968) 92659817 Egyptian woman resident, considerable experience in the Administration and Secretarial Executive for company.

Contact : 97221126

DESIGNER/ DRAUGHTSMAN

DRIVER

Free lance Autocad works experienced (arch, struct, MEP, shop drw) rate a0/a1 sheet ( 10-17 OMR) ph : 97103168.

Gulf experienced Indian Driver with valid heavy / light Oman license seeks any suitable driving or other job. Contact: 94201010

Indian male, having wide experience of 4 years in GCC & 5 years in India for 3 D interior &exterior designing , AutoCAD drafting & NOC available &ready to join immediately. Contact: 91282841 Email: thankijb@gmail.com

Driver looking for job.

Contact: 95892363

Indian male experience Graphicdesigner and VFX artist on visit visa Ruwi. Contact: 97792661 Email: georgejosec5@gmail.com Revit, Autocad D/man, expected salary 200 OMR. PH : 92279784

DRIVER Pakistani male light vehicle driver looking for job.

Contact: 96651070 Looking for any driving job.

Contact: 98549627 Driver (Light vehicle) four year experiences in Oman.

Contact: 96961249 Bangladesh male light driver exp 16 years A.G 48 years, looking for job. Contact 99165961 Light vehicle driver 4 years exp know, Hindi, English and Arabic.

Contact:98522914 Light driver 3 yrs exp.

Contact: 95939050 Light vehicle driver with 10 years experience requires placement.

Contact: 94554216 Looking for light vehicle driving job, 4 years exp in Oman.

Contact: 93464395 Light duty driver, 3 yrs exp, seeks placement. Contact: 97829730 Light duty driver seeks placement. Contact: 96381406 Heavy duty driver seeks placement. Contact: 94939865 / 79039204 Driver looking for job.

Contact: 91788481 / 92231714 Driver with car. Contact: 99716938 / 96048707 Indian light driver having 2 years experience in Oman, know language, Hindi, English & Arabic need job. Contact: 97366822 Bangladeshi Male, 1 yr exp, D/L. Contact: 95496766 Pakistani light driver job, 7 yrs exp. Contact: 92754283 Driver with car, 6 years experience. Contact: 93961503 / 96448004

ARCH./ INTERIOR DEC. Architect Engineer seeking for suitable job, 8 years experience.

GSM : 96075000, Email : haytham_201046@yahoo.com Architect, B.Arch (Manipal University, India) looking for challenging professional Architect post in Oman. Presently available in Oman. Please contact 99417671.

DESIGNER/ DRAUGHTSMAN

Male 40 yrs, 15 yrs exp, D/L seeking job (Sales & driving) English, Hindi, Arabic. Contact: 97003340 1 years exp D/L male 28 yrs, looking driver job. Contact: 94338977 Driver job wanted. Contact: 96393082 Indian male 42 yrs UAE , QTR 24 years road work experience looking for good post, with driving license, on visit visa. Contact: 91177203

Filipino Senior Revit/AutoCAD Draftsman with 20 years professional experience is looking for suitable job in Oman.

Please Contact: 96489798, (+974) 66653780

Driver with car have good experience in Oman. Contact: 94039796

Free lance / part time autocad works / make boq 2d /3d arch , structural, shop drawings interior drawings. Contact 97103168 mkgroupoman@gmail.com

Looking for job light driving.

Contact: 93779819

INDIAN male Civil Draughtsman/ Designer with 8 years’ experience (6 years in Oman and 2 years in India) seeks placement. NOC available. Contact 96796138.

Looking for driving job with care Honda accordwithoutcar have experience 5 years & language know Hindi & Arabic.

Contact: 97747243

AutoCADcivil 3D draftsmen having 5 yrs highway draughting 5 yr sarchest, drafting looking for suitable job. Contact: 93243262 knowledge of site measurement

Experienced driver available with 4WD willing to work fulltime / part-time, familiar with all tourist destinations in Oman.

Contact: 24814231 / 91941545

Driver with 2 years experience in job looking for job. Contact: 93374969 / 93721242

Looking for job exp having driving license. Contact: 97363138

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Civil Engineer, 6+ years withOmani D/L,NOC or local release available.

Contact: 91693008 Egyptian architect, professional user 3D Max Cad Revit, 5 years experience. Contact: 92023325 A B.Tech instrumentation Engineer with one year experience in India on visit visa seeks openings contact. mob. 91277256 Email: manzu.fisat@gmail.com HSE Officer 6 yrs experience in building construction safety seeking suitable position currently on visit visa. Contact: 90595885 / 71140487 Electrical Engineer (Indian) diploma 13 years exp (4 yrs Oman) valid Oman driving license, NOC Available seeking suitable placement. Contact: + 968- 98858299 /+ 91- 7012968344 Email:jm_thomas23@yahoo.com Arch’l Site Engineer more than 15 years exp in Saudi Arabia & Oman (finishing & marble field).

Contact: 91220168 Indian male age 50 , B.E civil having 26 years exp as R.E and QA/QC Good knowledge in building construction , working as R.E , Most of the Govt (MOE) and PDO projects , approved R.E of MOE &approved QA/ QC of PDO, looking for suitable placement at present I am in notice period available for immediate joining.

Contact: 90933946 / 94156495 (WA) B.SC Civil Engineer with 6 years experience in managing supervising&planning in Oman.

Contact:96086214 Email: engmohamedosman@outlook.com Electronicsand Communication Engineer, male 24,1 yearexperience as Junior & network Admin in India,on visit visa, looking for job.

Contact: 90107380 Email: anoojgkrishnan@gmail.com Civil Draftsman 6 years experience in Oman male.

Contact: 98121513 Email: wasilansari2600@gmail.com Project manager – Electrical, Indian B.Tech electrical &, 19 years of experience in HT &LT network projects (9 years in Oman).

Driving license & NOC available, seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 96258810 Email: bharathj1976@gmail.com Civil Engineer B.Tech, M. Tech Indian with 2 years experience in India (Sobha city) seeking suitable placement currently visit visa.

Contact: 90104058 Email: sibin089@gmail.com Indian Engineer 25, B.E& Diploma in HSE with 3 years India exp, on visit Visa available to join immediately # 93472629.

Email: jithujay.in@gmail.com Biotechnology Engineer with valid Oman D/L job suitable placement. Contact: 92839983 Graduate female, with driving license, looking for a suitable position. Contact: 96234434 MBA B. Tech (Information Technology) male technical course M.S office,Computerhardware, 4 months exp. Contact:93965132 / 99040662 Email: mshihab27@gmail.com Civil Engineer B.Tech(Civil) Oman driving license AutoCAD Microsoft office more than six years experience in construction of building & villas and cad projects contractors and consultants.

Contact: 00968 – 98382247 Civil Eng B.SC holder 6 yrs exp in Oman having D/L. Contact: 93654862 Electrical B.Tech Indian 26, 3 years exp in PLC/ SCADA IND. automation &supervision.

Contact: 97207570 / 90481773

Experienced IT Professional with over 20 years in Oman.

Can manage ERP systems, Hardware, Network, Wi-Fi and Biometric Devices.

Contact # 92839516

ůĞĐƚƌŽŶŝĐƐͬ /ŶƐƚƌƵŵĞŶƚĂƟ ŽŶ Engineer With 3 years experience in a renowned Oil ĐŽŵƉĂŶLJ ; ŝƌ ĐƌĂŌ ƌĞĨƵĞůŝŶŐ ĞƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚƐ Y ͕ ŝŶƐƚƌƵŵĞŶƚĂƟ ŽŶ W ĞůĞĐƚƌŝĐĂů ƐLJƐƚĞŵƐͿ 1 year on job training at sea port (electricaland PLC systems) Having and HSE, IT and management trainings.

abdallah.baloch@outlook.com Contact: 96116969

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Indian female B.Tech Civil engineer having experience as quantity surveyor and having knowledge in primavera , 3DS Max, AutoCAD etc seeking for a suitable job.

Contact: 95737185 Email: elizabethvinod8@gmail.com Indian male BE mechanical engineer CSWIP, 4 years gulf experience in visit visa having Qatar driving license. Contact: +968 96550807 Email: vishnusohanlal@gmail.com Master in Civil Engineering with 5 years Gulf exp. Contact: 96658456 Indian male 26 years Mechanical Engineer with 2 yrs exp in Oman.

Looking for suitable placement.

Contact - 91328079 Civil Engineer 8 years experience Structural buildings marine. Available NOC release. #92451323.

Email: zubairali134@yahoo.com Indian male Civil Engineer 1.6 yrs exp, having Omani D/L, looking for suitable position. NOC available.

Contact – 92157694 / mohammedamair.bin@gmail.com BE mechanical Eng, PG diploma in piping &plant, immediately available, on visit visa. #95486659 Email: akashmw50@gmail.com Indian female, MCA,BCA, oracle certified 6month training in data warehousing PHP, SQL,PLAQL, UNIX, seeking job at good company. Contact: 95694330 Email: monakashyap001@gmail.com Indian male 24 fresh mechanical engineer looking for a job in mechanical field special interest in QA, QC NDT on visit visa.

Contact: 93487822 Electrician Indian male 9 year’sexp, seeking suitable position currently in visit visa.

Contact: 94736540 B.Sc Civil Engineer 5+ years experience in Building construction & Steel structural building with having valid D/L. Contact: 93850440/ shahadat033@gmail.com Indian female M.Tech biotechnology seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 91287047 Email: valliammai1000@gmail.com Electrical Engineer with experience, 9 years in Oman.

Contact: 98148034 Telecom Engineer exp in CCTV camera & Security systems, D/L available. Contact: 93513927 Keralite (m) Electrical engineer seeks placement. Contact: 92757534 Email: arundevd588@yahoo.com Looking for Civil Engineer job, with 5 years experience in ministry project, good command in AutoCAD MS Excel and establishing BOQs. Contact: 97478804 HSE / Safety professional having more than 15 years of experience in oil & gas airport & building construction safety seeking suitable position in HSE. Contact: 99206389 Indian male 24 ,B.E ( E.C.E ) graduate with 3 years of experience in the fields of BMS and Low current systems and has good knowledge about Electronic Security Systems, currently working in Oman, NOC Available. Contact: 94737033/ mohdmuhafez45@gmail.com Civil Engineer, B.Tech, Indian with 1 year experience in Oman seeking suitable placement, NOC available from sponsor. Contact: 91702450 Email: tijoct2015@hotmail.com Civil Engineer 10 years experience working in International company, Infrastructure & building construction having Omani driving license.

Contact: 96616396.

Site Supervisor, Diploma in Civil Engg (cert attested) knows autocad revit, salary exp: 250 Ph : 92279784 Mechanical Engineer, Indian, Male, 30yrs. Experienced in Steam turbines and Thermal Power house seek employment.

Contact - +91 8130553668 or mohamedshah7@gmail.com

Diploma in Mechanical Engg, 10 years exp in steel fabrication site work with valid Oman driving license. Contact: 94696192 Civil Engineer diploma, 4 yrs exp seeks suitable position in a reputed company. NOC available.

Contact 96789711 B.E Mechanical Engineer, age 24 with almost 1 year experience as Production Shift Engineer, has achieved training on HVAC Engineering design and has good hands on software like AutoCAD and HAP.Currently in Oman on a visit visa, looking for a suitable placement.Contact: 95065955 email: mjs.jazeb@gmail.com An Iraqi civil with more than 30 years experience in (Iraq and G.C.C) looking for a job, (N.O.C) available. Contact: 96561306 Email: iq.bgd.mnsr@gmail.com

Indian male Electrical Engineer, having 6 years gulf experience in designing, assembling, commissioning execution etc having valid GCC license too looking for a suitable. Contact: 00968-98052942 Email: azamjeelani78@gmail.com Civil Engineer (B.Tech), Indian male 24 years with 1+years Indian experience,(Certified in Staad Pro/ Quantity Survey/ Auto Cad).Looking for a Suitable position. Available In Sultanate of Oman (Muscat) on Visit Visa. Contact: 92157694. E-mail: mohammedamair.bin@gmail.com Electrical Engineer Indian male 30 years, having 5 years of experience in industrial automation and utility maintenance in India, holding valid Oman D/L. Contact: 92789995 Email: akhilabrahamlktr@gmail.com

EDUCATION/TRAINING Looking for suitable placement. Indian Male 36 yrs Machineshop sales and service, repair and maintenance mechanical equipments & jobs. Noc available, Oman D/L Available Working in Oman for 5+ years. 98481039, anand27kumar@gmail.com Indian male, Mechanical Engineer having 1year experience, on visit visa looking for suitable job.

Contact: 97416564, Email:jovinmathias@gmail.com Civil Engineer 8 years experience in Oman as a project engineer for governmental & private projects.

Contact – 90164912 Mechanical/ Piping Engineer (B.Tech.) on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact 94703350 Email: nadeembcoolboy@gmail.com Fresher cloud Engineer.

Contact: 98207829 Sudanese civil Engineer master holder with 6 years experience.

Contact: 99636424 Indian male, B.E Mechanical with 2 years experience as Maintenance Engineer in Cochin Refinery and 1 year experience in Chevrolet seeking job. Contact : 97964862, Email:jossyabraham20@gmail.com Construction Machinery repairs Engineer, 5 years, driving license, Contact - 94001961 Civil Engineer (Indian male) 5 years experience in Oman with valid Omani driving license & NOC looking for suitable opportunity.

Contact: 93101283 Electrical Engineer, 24 yrs, Indian Male, Fresher, Training Undertaken in Electrical Draughtsman, Fire Alarm, Fire Fighting and Industrial Automation.

Contact: 94989767, Email: Junaiz987@gmail.com Pakistani male Diploma Civil Engineer 4yrs exp in Oman bulling & mega projects, valid license Oman. Contact: 98921022 Indian male, B.E Mechanical with 2 years experience as Maintenance Engineer in Cochin Refinery and 1 year experience in Chevrolet seeking job.

Ph number: 97964862, Email: jossyabraham20@gmail.com Indian male, Structural Engineer looking for job in structural design field. Having 6 years of experience in design field. Residing in Muscat.

Contact - 91176187 Email: syam036@gmail.com Electrical & Electronics Engr, knows autocad & revit.

Contact: 93837973 Civil Engineer, young Indian having almost 2 years experience looking for a challenging position seeks suitable position in Oman/ GCC. Please contact 92718490, Email ID: uvais.pk82@gmail.com Sr. Electrical Engineer with17+ yrs of exceptional exp in spear heading strategic planning and project management initiatives & executing various high rise residential & commercial building as well as roads and highway project with proficiency in installation, seeking a challenging position in a dynamic organization. Contact 96570891

Indian Female, Phd in Chemistry having 3.5 yrs of Experience in India. Staying here on Family Visa & seeking for a suitable placement.

Contact – 99675828, Email anupam.tiwari67@gmail.com Female B. Ed English teacher, 7 yrs exp seeking suitable placement. Contact 99739415 / 92091528 Indian female 24. Masters in Computer science engineering, seeking job in colleges, schools and institutes. Having in good skill in teaching and advanced technologies. Contact : 93356858 Email id : annielino11@gmail.com

HOSPITALITY Looking suitablepost in hotels / resorts, Gulf experienced total 16 years, 8 years as GMoperations, MBAhotel management, bachelor in tourism & science Cambridge IELTS (6.5) Contact: Email: umar_in@rediffmail.com or rajeevnarendran@gmail.com Front Office Manager with over 20 years of experience in the Middle East & preopening expertise with hospitality giants like Burj Al Arab, Address hotels &Millennium looking for similar opportunities.

Contact: 96383636 Indian male 31yrs old with hotel management degree,03 yrs experience in F&B services at 5 star hotel Dubai, 05 yrs in American 06 star cruiseliner has butler.

Has oman driving license.

Contact 99859150 Indian male, 24 yrs , Diploma in Hotel management, 2 years experience front office management in 4 star hotel Dubai, currently on visit visa. Contact: 97937504 Email: febinpalathingal01@gmail.com

IT Senior Network Engineer (USA Citizen) network design &implementation,network config& maintenance CCNA, CCNP, CCIE (WR). Contact: 90350262 Email: ammar.eng@gmail.com HSE manager, Indian, GradIOSH, IDIP Nebosh, 19+ years experience EX- Indian navy driving license , NOC available , seeks placement.

Contact: 94401830 Email: hseoman101@gmail.com Indian male Keralite post graduate diploma and graduate CCNA & MCSA certified have 5 years experience in software & hardware technical support. Contact: 93988511 Contact: vimalkanthkv@gmail.com Bachelor degree (B.techin electronics and telecommunicationsand CCNA certified network supportengineer 1 .5 years experience seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 90253746 Email: sreejilalnt2424@gmail.com Indian / Female (29) married.

MCA, 2+years of experience in software development Accenture, Bangalore. IT skills include Dot Net, SQL server 2008, ASP.Net, excellent communication skills with Omani DL looking for a suitable job. Mb: 94057790; Email: geetika.pesit08@gmail.com

D6

S U N DAY, JA N UA RY 1 , 2 0 1 7

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED IT

MEDICAL

A telecommunication and Network Engineer with 3 years experience in the field.

Contact : + 968 98832649 Email: mohammed.abutamam@gmail.com

Indian male Nurse with 9 yrs experience MOH license with NOC and Oman D/L, seeking job.

Contact: 98152546

Indian female M.Sc Computer Science seeking suitable placement in Muscat area.

Contact 98660672 IT Engineer male, 28 yrs, over 7 yrs experience with NOC, D/L available seeking placement in IT / Network / Telecom field.

Contact 93563297 Email: monuzv24@gmail.com Indian Male, MCA Graduate, 15 yrs exp in ERP, CSM Certified, seeking suitable role.NOC Available.

Contact : GSM : 90189284 Email: meetlibran@gmail.com 27, Indian male: Software Developer having 5years+ experience in oracle forms & reports 10 g, BI publisher. Contact:91156571 CFA level 1 cleared (pursuing level 2) MBA operations research, female, 5 yrs experience as Analyst, have a valid Oman driving license, looking for related openings.Contact 95818892 Indian male 4 years experience in IT as Programmer / Web Support/ CCNA/ Network on visit visa seeking placement.

Contact 93069694 Email: mrabrar14@gmail.com IT Support Engineer, Exp 3 years in Oman 2 years in India.

Contact 94672759 Indian male 4 years experience in IT as Programmer / Web Support/ CCNA/ Network on visit visa seeking placement. Contact 93069694 Email: mrabrar14@gmail.com Female, master in mass communication, B.Ed, experience in media channel and teaching PH : 99362024

MISCELLANEOUS 2nd mate Officer, Indian 10 yrs experience in Tanker / chemical vessels, looking for an on shore job / port operations / TWG master.

Contact: 94972789 Purchase Executive 9 .5 years experience in construction purchasein Oman seeking a suitable placement, NOC available.

Contact: 94274104 Purchase Executive 10 years experience in construction purchase seeking a suitable placement, NOC available. Contact: 97332401 British National, 34, M.B.A young & energetic male, looking for any managerial position in Oman, having 12 years of experience in managing different types of businesses.

Contact: 96056963 Email: asim_shah199@yahoo.com Omani male, 21 years graduate, (bachelor in management studies) seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 97904200 21, Indian female B.com graduate on family visa looking for immediate and suitable placement. Holds valid Omani Driver’s license. Contact: 97208869 Indian male, 28, post graduate, 6+ yrs exp in Oman in sales (back office) & credit control with valid Oman D/L looking for suitable placements. NOC available.

Contact: 92066 523 9 year experienced industrial painter and sand blaster with Oman driving licence. NOC available.

Seeks suitable placement. Contact Zakeer Hussain 96681934.

B.Com,IICL Certified Container Inspector (No.150850),Visit Visa, Six months experience, need placement. # 90880935, 99023279, Email solexyesudas@gmail.com Sudanese male bachelor geology and mining with 3 years experience in MUD logging and training in soil investigation. #92956848 BS in Electrical Engineering, Experience: 5 years(Power Plants).

Contact: 92475206 Email: zahaibzafar007@gmail.com

Indian lady, BSC Nurse with MOH seeking job. Contact: 92726762 Indian female Staff Nurse, more than 20 years experience in maternity wards, delivery suit and medical wards M.O.H license and N.O.C available. Seeking for a suitable job in Muscat. Contact: 92035268 Email: rosemathew2015@gmail.com Indian female MOH Dietitian working in Muscat NOC available well experienced. Contact: 90996037 Email: nabanitasaha12@gmail.com Dr.Ayman Abduljalil Ali, E.N.T Specialist (Otolaryngologist), Yemeni-male, looking for job.

Mobile: 00201096542706, Email: aymanjalilorl@gmail.com Female Dentist Indian with MOH license & NOC looking for a job in Muscat. Contact-96035981 Filipino male Medical / Sales representative with 3 yrs experience is looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact: 92610394 Veterinary Doctor: Indian Female looking for a suitable placement.

Contact: 96906534 /99014885, Email: monishmajeed@gmail.com

MANAGER / SUPERVISOR Purchase Officer / Manager 16 years GCC experience in construction (civil& MEP) seeks suitable placement, NOC available.

Contact: 99109533 Project manager ( B.E Arch) interior fit outsspecializing in retail shops , corporate offices F& B outlets , hospitality etc having 10 years experience to work in a reputed Firm , NOC available. Contact: 94274437 Experienced Global Relationship Manager with 10 years experience at the world’s leading banks. Handled the custody and FX accounts of key clients worth millions of dollars.

Email:ahmedmarzouk17@ymail. com or call 97392155 Experienced business development and investment consultant with 10 years experience in the financial management field. Holds a masters degree in finance and management from the UK. Tel: 90157073 Indian male (40 yrs), looking for warehousing /logistics supervisor position, having 12 yrs Oman Exp with D/L, currently with a leading distribution company in Oman, NOC available - PH: 94337320 ; Email: truefails@rediffmail.com General Manager Indian National With 20 yr Experience In managing Civil Construction Business Seek Opening in reputed Civil Company. Contact-97464650.

SKILLED LABOUR 7 years experience in aquaculture shrimp farming construction light license NOC. Contact: 92635313 Male 42 Electricians & plumber, looking for job NOC available.

Contact: 98081227 Watch repair and service looking for job, 24 yrs experience.

Contact: 99530405

SALES / MARKETING Looking for suitable placement.

Mechanical Engineer sales, oil & gas 5years experience in Oman. Total 15yrs exp. N.O.C & D/L available.

GSM 98481039, Email- anand27kumar@gmail.com Indian male (28) B.Com last position 6+ yrs experience in sales & business development immediate joining, on visit visa.

Contact: 92686168 W.H.APP +918087894270 Email: fernandesjackson_jom@yahoo.com Indian male masters in Petroleum Engineering with 1 year Oman experience in sales & marketing holding D/L, currently on visit visa looking for oil / gas industry field related or sales related job.

Contact - 93789123

MEDICAL Indian male Nurse, with well experience in profession and working in Oman. Seeking for a suitable placement. (Preferring opportunity in as Rig Medic). Has BLS and ACLS. Contact : 97236545

Indian Male, 26 M.Com with 4 yrs of Experience in Accounting & Administration in a Financial Company in India, seeks suitable job, Currently in India. +918907212253 Akhil:-93626288, Email: Sumeshpsmkr1989@gmail.com

SALES / MARKETING Client Relations and Sales Professional with 8 years in the Business Process Outsourcing industry, looking for suitable opportunity in Muscat. Contact +96879050752 33 Indian male, Graduate with 11 years Oman experience in sales & hospitality, looking for a job with NOC. Contact: 90307873 Indian Kerala 35 years male, 4 years working sales man for building material hare D/L seek suitable placement. Contact: 99858456 / 96314974 Email: prasanthsmt@gmail.com Indian male valid Omani driving license 15 years experience in Oman fluent in English,Arabic, Hindi & Malayalam NOC available looking for suitable placement in sales driver pest. # 97012317 Male 27 years of experience in warehouse sale & marketing sector, looking for suitable position, currently on visit visa. Contact – 93942050/ WhatsApp- 919573500548 / rma36684@gmail.com PG in commerce male more than 8 yrs experience in purchase in Oman D/L, seeking suitable placement. Contact: 99145776 MBA (UK), raised in Oman & with 2 yrs work experience holding valid Oman driving license, seeks job in sales / business development.

Contact: 99513132 Indian male with 8 years experience in Sales and marketing with Toyota in India seeks placement.

Contact: 24787920 or 99264617 Lebanese man, lookingfor job Marketing&sales, Ihave licenseNOC, 10 years experience in Oman.

Contact: 91308319 Multinational FMGC experienced, qualified Sri Lankan lady seeking employment in Muscat. Marketing, Brands, Sales, Communication.

Oman exp& DL available. 98250829 Engineering graduate having 5+ years of exp as Marketing coordinator in Advertisement Company and as security system service engineer Mob: 79059197 27 years Indian male looking for outdoor sales with 5 years of experience in G.C.C & having Oman driving license presently working in electronic base company. N.O.C available. Contact: 94048369 / 97209329 Sales professional (Graduate) with additional qualification MCSE & CCNA having more than 10+ yrs of experience in handling IT hardware, Networking & Security Products (project based) and experience in education and training industry in Oman, seeking employment in relevant IT companies. Contact: 99354209 BBA Bachelor of business administration exp in custom clearance procedure, also done international logistics management & Nimb National Institute business management (US) certification all documentation work related logistics. contact – 91949050 / akram.chaush001@gmail.com B.com graduate from India with 6 months of experience in billing and sales in one of the largest retail chain company in India is looking for a suitable position.

Currently in visit visa 99610602 or hashim.hashi@yahoo.in India PG diploma in Business Administration, 24 year experiences (22 years in Oman) in diverse field handling office independently administration, Sales and Marketing, highly motivated, hard working skillful and willing to work in challenging environments seeks suitable placement. Having valid Omani driving license. Contact 99120500

INDIAN male, BBA with 4 years experience in SALES & MARKETING, holding omani driving license. seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 95607037 Email: raaz0jannat@gmail.com.

Indian Male (25), BSc Electronics, M.B.A seeking suitable openings, Having 3 years’ experience in, sales and Marketing of financial products with Oman Driving License. Contact - 94774550

Marketing Executive with 10 years experience in Gulf on visit visa. Contact: 90116693

Fresh B.Com Graduate in visit visa looking for a job. CONTACT: 93518923 / 99075027.

Email: sheikcok@yahoo.com

Indian male 1 yr exp in sales automotive (TBL) looking for best opportunity , NOC available.

Contact# 97793879 Email: shyampkn@gmail.com Indian male age 24, B.Com. having 2 year experience and currently in visit visa. Looking for suitable placement in Sales, Marketing & finance. Contact: 90766307 Email: shhaazz.007@gmail.com Indian male 26 years of experience of sales & marketing in surgical and laboratory equipments.

Looking for good replacement.

Contact – 92015894 /95774854 Indian female 29 years Post Graduate with computer Knowledge 2 years of Oman experience in coordinator & 5 years of experience in customer service, client relation officer with excellent communication skill seeks suitable placement. Contact: 95337665

Indian male, 26 years of age, mechanical engineer .B.Tech from Trivandrum engineering college 2013. M.Tech from NIT Warangal .Specialty, Materials and Systems Engineering Design. Looking for suitable placement, # 99753809 Electrical Engineer (Indian) B.E in Electrical and 3.6 years of experience. Have experience in construction field. Seeking for a suitable job. NOC available.

Contact: 91120129 Email: mpshareef313@gmail.com PG male 10 years experience purchases D/L & NOC also, looking suitable any job.

Contact: 99145776 Indian male 23 Fresher. Mechanical Engineer looking for job in Mechanical field special interest in HVAC &MEP.Contact : 9586 1251 Email : ajaibmd39@gmail.com

Key Accounts Manager of sales.. with an experience of 13 yrs, across the country. Bsc, MBA seeks suitable placement. Contact- 92100116

Building maintenance foreman (all-rounder).10.year gulf Experience with Oman Driving License.90858522.

Egyptian male experienced sales executive with 12 years sales experience in Egypt, KSA and Oman with leading FMCG companies.

Holds Omani driving license.

Tel: 96202040, Email: ahmedghoniem618@gmail.com

A Filipino female searching for a job, with visit visa exp February 2017.hospitality and sales job will be a Good offer to me.

Contact no:98271658

Indian male MBA and Diploma in management from Australia. On visit visa, looking for a suitable job in sales & marketing. #71189884 Indian male with 6 years experience in sales in oman. NOC available, looking for suitable placement. Contact 95364128 Indian male Graduate with 18 years of Marketing experience presently in Oman on family visit visa, looking for best opportunity.

Contact: 96168687 Email: dhibupaul@gmail.com Indian Male, MBA marketing 5 yrs exp. in sales & 4 yrs in FMCG sector, looking for best opportunity. NOC available.

Contact: 96001877

SECRETARIAL & OFFICE Secretarial & Office: Indian(F), MBA in Finance, 2 years experience as Associate in Branch Operations (Record Keeping, Desk job)on family visa. Ph: 93186865 ; email: ddthoppil@gmail.com Looking for part time job Secretarial / Data Entry / Documentation available every day after 5:00 pm Friday / Saturday full day area preferred Ruwi/ CBD/ MBD / Al Khuwair. Contact: 90414827 India PG diploma in Business Administration, 24 year experiences (22 years in Oman) in diverse field handling office administration independently, Sales and Marketing, highly motivated, hard working skillful and willing to work in hallenging environments seeks suitable placement. Having valid Omani driving license.

Contact 99120500 Lady Secretary / Sales Co-coordinator 12 years experience in Oman in reputed companies, seek immediate Employment.

Contact: 95244761

TRAVELS/TOUR Indian male 37 years MBA graduate in marketing with 9yrs of experience in UAE in field of brand promotions & marketing with UAE D/L on a visit seeking suitable position. Conatct 95792820

MISCELLANEOUS

Reservation & ticketing staff, IATA passed 24 yrs, Oman 1 year experience, 3 years experience in India. Contact: 94791341 & 0091 11 9656724483 Email: anasp555@gmail.com

Restaurant Banquet manager Indian male having 3 yrs diploma in hotel management & catering technology, above 16 yrs work experience in F&B service managerial position in reputed star hotels at gulf countries& India. #91164043 Email:mohanpriya1975@yahoo.com Indian female looking for an accounts part time job. area preferred Ruwi/CBD/MBD/ wk.contact-95482970.

Indian Male B-com graduate, 1.5 Year exp. in various office works, Valid Oman driving license looking for any suitable post.

Contact: 95322175 / 91987965 INDIAN male, BBA graduate and diploma in IATA Cargo Supply Chain and Transport Modes with DGR Initial Category 6.Holds Omani driving license. Presently in family visa. Seeks suitable placement in Cargo section.

Contact- 96370022 Young professional, Energetic looking for Finance/Audit Job. BSC (Accounting) ACCA (Affiliate), CAT (Affiliate). Currently working in GOV. Experience of 4 Years .

NOC available. saleemraza218@gmail.com Indian male, M.Com, B.Com, looking for suitable opening, now on visiting visa. Contact79103798, email- malikfaheem284@gmail.com Indian/male (26)/ca finalist and b.Com/3 years expereince in audit & assurance services, financial reporting & analysis on visit visa.

Available for immediate joining.

Contact: 98078321 email: shahir.Usman.Su@gmail.Com Indian Male 23 years B.com graduate Holding a valid Oman driving License searching for a suitable placement, currently on visit visa.

Contact: 94175848.

Indian/male(26)/MBA/ 2 years expereince in proccurement,cordination and distribution management.With valid oman licenece. Available for immediate joining. Contact: 92536194 EMAIL:suhailbs@gmail.com Indian male, 24 yrs, looking for professional job my qualification is Diploma in Electronics, having 3 years of Exp and i am having Gulf driving license you can contact me on : - +96897017866.

Resident in Oman 18 years, 10 years experience in setup marketing plans and strategies, sales, import & logistics, procurement, Omani government tenders, organizing projects & events, import fireworks for festivals, NOC available, have car. Contact 94123939.

Email: 002015r@gmail.com

IT professional, B.E. in IT, CCNA, MCSA, MCSE, 3+yrs exp. in IT, valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/Server support. Contact 91496939.

Indian male, 23 Fresher, Graduate Mechanical Engineer looking for job in Mechanical field special interest in HVAC & MEP.Contact: +968 9748 9256 Email: abdulmajid.ak@gmail.com

Oil & gas experienced Indian lady with 6 years in sales & marketing to PDO and having valid Omani driving license. Contact 96143430 / 99875919

Indian male BE Mechanical Engineer with two and a half years experience in production department, searching suitable job.

Contact no: 9500927480

Indian female PhD, M.Phil, M.A in English, B.Ed, Diploma TESOL,16 years teaching experience seeks suitable teaching, editing or relevant job. # 92245591, 95221665

MISCELLANEOUS

Indian male 23 Fresh Mechanical Engineer looking for job in Mechanical field special interest in HVAC & MEP. Contact : +968 9586 1251, Email : mdajaib@yahoo.com INDIAN male, BBA graduate and diploma in IATA Cargo Supply Chain and Transport Modes with DGR Initial Category 6.Holds Omani driving license. Presently in family visa, seeks suitable placement in Cargo section.

Contact :-96370022 Indian Male (25), BSc Electronics, M.B.A seeking suitable openings, Having 3 years’ experience in, sales and Marketing of financial products with Oman Driving License. Contact 94774550 Indian Male age 23) an i am looking for suitable job my qualification is Diploma in Electronics an i am having 3 years of experience in the hardware an networking field an i am having Gulf driving license you can contact me on : - +96897017866.

Indian/male (26)/CA finalist and b.com/3 years experience in audit & assurance services, financial reporting & analysis on visit visa. available for immediate joining.

Contact: 98078321, email: shahir.usman.su@gmail.com Indian/male(26)/ca finalist and b.com/3 years experience in audit & assurance services, financial reporting & analysis on visit visa, available for immediate joining.

Contact: 98078321 email: shahir.usman.su@gmail.com Indian female, holds masters in business administration (MBA) & LLB, 2 yrs oman experience as hr & admin, seeks suitable placement in jobs @ Sohar, Falaj.

Contact 96541959 Indian Male, 26 years. B. Tech (Civil ) Having 4 years experience as Project Engineer ¸ Site Engineer & Quantity surveyor. Good knowledge in Planning and arranging works and sites. Estimation, drawing, Billing and project management.

AUTO CADD, STAAD, MS Office and various software packages. #99334770/ 997 43 709 Mechanical Engineer/ HVAC/ Indian: 1year experienced mechanical engineer with piping engineering & quality control certification, on visit visa. email:nishadphoenix@gmail.com Contact: 90957740 Indian female, 27 years, MBA in Finance, currently pursuing ACCA, having 10 months voluntary job experience as accountant looking for suitable placement. #94388910, E- mail Id: sowmya.vs1989@gmail.com Indian male 34 yrs, MBA-HR with 10.9 yrs.exp. in Recruitmen t,Training,PMS,OD,Sites-HR and Omani nationals development, seeking a job, NOC available.

Contact saiprasad_18@yahoo.com 94179499 33 years Indian Male MBA-HR & MSC having 8.9 yrs Exp (HR- operation/ SAP/ Admin) with Oman Driving License. Seeking suitable opening in Human Resource, Payroll & Admin/backend jobs.

Contact:+968 99322978 /94129291 Male Accountant, MBA (Finance) 5 years Experience including UAE and India up to finalization Available immediately (On Visit).

Contact: 91704866, Email: anees0989@gmail.com Indian female B.E (I.T) Good experience in documentation and CRM. Having good communication skills. Seeking for job from reputed organization. Previous experience in Oman and India.

Contact - 97301058, 97136975.

Indian male 23 Fresh Mechanical Engineer looking for job in Mechanical field special interest in HVAC & MEP. Contact : 9586 1251, Email : mdajaib@yahoo.com Indian Male 15 years gulf experience in HR / Admin Assistant, Purchase, Office Coordinator with good computer skills seeking employment for suitable position. Holding valid Oman Driving license. Contact 99709336 Indian Male,B.COM having 4+Years of experience in OMAN with Valid Oman Driving License.

Experienced in Accounts & Sales, looking for an opportunity in Sales or Accounts. Mob:- 94106834 email:- jobhuntmuscat@gmail.com.

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DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

SITUATION WANTED TOURS

SITUATION WANTED Indian, male, BBA graduate and diploma in IATA Cargo Supply Chain and Transport Modes with DGR Initial Category 6.Holds Omani driving license. Presently in family visa. Seeks suitable placement in Cargo section.

Contact :-96370022 Indian Male 29 years MBA, B.Com having 8 years experience in Gulf and India as a HR and Admin looking for suitable placement. Contact :97914340.

Email: kvraj30@gmail.com Looking for a part time accounting & admin job, having 32 years of experience. Contact 9919621.

Good knowledge in Planning and arranging works and sites. Estimation, drawing, Billing and project management. AUTO CADD, STAAD, MS Office and various software packages Contact 99334770 /997 43 709 Indian/male(26)/MBA/2 years experience in procurement, coordination and distribution management, with valid oman license available for immediate joining.

Contact 92536194, email:suhailbs@gmail.com Accountant. Having 9 years experience in accounts in reputed companies. Presently working in Muscat (NOC Available).

GSM. 00968-93528057, Email waheed.murtaza@yahoo.com B. Tech in electrical and electronics engineering, 23yrs Indian male, 2yrs exp (MEP ELECTRICAL ), NOC available, expert in electrical engineering design, autocad, ETAP, MS Office. Contact ph:92201939 email:nabilism4@gmail.com Electrical and electronics engineering graduate, 23yrs Indian male, NOC available, 2 yrs site experience in industrial and commercial building sites(MEP ELECTRICAL), expert in autocad, etap, ms office, electrical engineering design, fluent in English and Hindi, exp in handling a team of 20 workers, ph:92201939.

Indian male Staff Nurse completed BSc nursing, having three years of experience in medical ICU having Oman license and NOC, seeking suitable situation.

Contact 94932245 Indian male, 23 yrs, looking for suitable job my qualification is Diploma in Electronics an i am having 3 years of experience in the hardware an networking field an i am having Gulf driving license.

Contact me on : - +96897017866.

Mechanical Engineer/ HVAC/ Indian: 1year experienced mechanical engineer with piping engineering & quality control certification, on visit visa. email:nishadphoenix@gmail.com Contact: 90957740, email: nishadphoenix@gmail.com

MATRIMONIAL R.C boy, 29 years KothamangalamDiosees 180 cm working Muscat (FMCG) invited suitable proposal.

Contact: 92397926 Viswakarma boy 33 years Trissur Own Business,seeks suitable alliance. Contact: 97363585

SITUATION WANTSIT.WANTED

Indian male 22 B.com looking for job in ACCOUNTING OR DATA OPERATION special interest in Account’s will be happy to hear from you. C#+90758030, Email : uttiawesome@gmail.com

27 years, Indian male looking for a senior mobile application developer job in Oman. 5+ years of experience as a software engineer, am available in Muscat till Dec 19th.

Arunkumar6207@gmail.com, +968 9600 3057, +91 8019897589

Indian male B-com Graduate1.5 Year exp. in various office works, valid Oman driving license. Looking for any suitable post .Please contact: 95322175 / 91987965

SITUATION WANTED COMPUTER/WEB./ EDU./CLASSES

Nair boy, 26 yrs Revathy, Alleppy dist, B.Tech working as planning / project Engineer in Oman, 4 yrs seeks suitable alliance. Contact: 94232342 / 99065898

INDIAN MALE (26)/CA-inter and b.Com/3 years expereince in audit & assurance services, financial reporting & analysis on visit visa.

Available for immediate joining.

Contact 98078321 EMAIL: shahir.usman.su@gmail.com

Pakistani male 25 y, fluent in English, valid oman driving license experience of pak. & oman. Needs suitable replacement like teaching, administration, documents controller, sales and marketing, rent a car field and personal Assistant etc. aamirkhan_7860@yahoo.com.

Contact 94908725

We arrange tours & accommodation at all the beautiful places in Oman.

Contact 99839898

Sunni Muslim (Urdu) girl B.E, M.B.A 26 years invites alliance from Tamil Nadu Bengaluru.

Contact: 99502581

Electronics & Communication Engineer, 23-year-old Indian on family visa, BE-ECE graduate looking for suitable placement in networking, hardware and electronics field. #95148894, 99726963.

Email: sadathali0003@gmail.com

Indian male 34 yrs, MBA-HR with 10.9 yrs.exp. In Recruitment, Training, PMS, OD, Sites-HR and Omani nationals development, seeking a job, NOC avl.contact 94179499 saiprasad_18@yahoo.com

MANPOWER

Indian male, 26 years, B-Tech Graduate with 3 years experience in Oman& 2 Years experience in india as Civil Engineer in a reputed construction company. Looking for suitable jobs.NOC available.

Seeking immediate placements.

Contact: 96179737/ 97076972, email:robinsj.sj@gmail.com PROCUREMENT OFFICER, Indian-Male 34yrs,M.Com with 14 yrs work Exp.( 8 yrs in Oman) working in Construction Co LLC( for ROAD,CIVIL,ELECTROMECHANICAL & Others projects) & having valid LT D/L, NOC/Local release available to join immediately M:+968 94064650 Email: nagauae@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTGOOD NEWS ENJOY YOUR VACATION!!! ǁŽƌƌLJŝŶŐ ĂďŽƵƚ LJŽƵƌ ĐĂƌ͍ ,ĞƌĞ ŝƐ Ă ƐŽůƵƟ ŽŶ ĨŽƌ safe parking and cleaning your car when you ĂƌĞ ĂǁĂLJ ŽŶ ǀĂĐĂƟ ŽŶ͘ &Žƌ ƉĞŽƉůĞ ƚƌĂǀĞůůŝŶŐ ĨƌŽŵ ĚŝƐƚĂŶƚ ůŽĐĂƟ ŽŶ͕ LJŽƵ ĐĂŶ ũƵƐƚ ĚƌŽƉ Žī your keys to the car care team and peacefully check into the airport. Your vehicle will be ǁĂŝƟ ŶŐ Ăƚ ƚŚĞ ĂŝƌƉŽƌƚ ŽŶ LJŽƵƌ ƌĞƚƵƌŶ͘

Contact: 96964767 Ayurvedic treatments & massage – Ayurvedic Clinic Al Khuwair.

Contact 97263637 /93309131 Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis massage, steam bath, obesity, spondylitis, Ideal Care Ayurvedic clinic, 18th November Street Al Ghubra (North). Contact 99639695 / 97397320 Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam). Contact 24475280 / 95371664 / 92504980 www.siddhayur.com

TRANSPORTATION

TRANSPORTATION Transportation. Contact: 97128083 Transportation.Contact: 96968411 Driver with car transportation available. Contact: 95396905 Picking & drop Ruwi to Rusail.

Contact: 98957524 / 91287470

Transportation. Contact: 94297820 Transportation. Contact: 99099714

Spoken Arabic class for Non Arabic Speakers & English class for Malayalam Speakers

in Azaiba and Ruwi earn in two months

tion guaranteed

Tel: 95244310 Karate and self defense classes at Azaiba 18 Nov Street. RO 10 per month twice a week Monday and Tuesday 6. 30 TO 7. 30. PM. Contact: 98294551

Transportation.Contact 94087276 Transportation. Contact 92015894

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

D8

S U N DAY, JA N UA RY 1 , 2 0 1 7

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

RENT A CAR

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

RENT A CAR

WE SERVE OMAN

Pest control & Building cleaning all kinds of pest control ďƵŝůĚŝŶŐ͘ ůĞĂŶŝŶŐ Ɵ ůĞƐ ͬ Marble polishing monthly/ Yearly contracts available.

Contact: 98814733 /98814740 Al Husn Cleaning L.L.C

GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998 We undertake new construction & maintenance & gypsum works.

Contact 92711506, ammarayyub@gmail.com

SERVICES We Provide Cleaners, Kĸ ĐĞ ďŽLJƐ͕ ůĞĂŶŝŶŐ ŽŶƚƌĂĐƚƐ͕ General cleaning etc. ů DƵĚĂŬŚŝƌ EĂƟ ŽŶĂů Ɛƚ͘ >> Contact : 94277020

Pest Control Treatments.

Ocean Center L.L.C. Contact 99344723 Caret & Sofa Shampooing General Cleaning & Polishing.

Ocean Center L.L.C. Contact 24707833 Marble Crystallization & Grinding, Ocean Center L.L.C. Contact: 92705130 A/C maintenance & Servicing, Fridge / Washing Machine / dish washer repairing, 2) Painting and cleaning service, Electrical & Plumbing. Contact 94147874 / 24504281, mail : globalaccessunited@gmail.com Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & anti-termite treatment, general cleaning painting, Plumbing, Electrical, shifting.

Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. # 24810137, 99450130

Marble / granite sales, fixing lean polishing. Contact: 98604960

NRI

Safety items New Year gift diaries, pen printing. Contact: 98604960

Brand new luxury 3 BHK apartment for sale in South Bangalore, Bannerghatta main road, near Dairy Circle. Contact: + 968 99337995

Installation & maintenance for Modular Kitchen, UPVC Doors & Windows, Furniture, Electrical & Air-conditions Contact @ 92383882/91443786 House shifting packing.

Contact: 99657644 / 98518013 Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722

25 - 50 seater bus with PDO & BP specification for monthly rent & small car with driver. # 99839898

DRIVING

SITUATION WANTFOR LADIES Special packages, Facial, Pedicure, Eyebrow, only 10 RO. Al doom Beauty Parlour Contact 99619409 Specialist for road test drum and slope. Contact 94022250