Times of Oman - January 6, 2015

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TUESDAY, January 6, 2015 / 15 Rabi Al Awal 1436 AH

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Oman ‘gets real’ over oil in the 2015 state budget The annual budget document released

State Budget breakdown (in million OMR)

Crude oil

Natural gas

Current and other revenues

7,700

1,460

2,440

shows details how much Oman expects to make from oil, plus what it will spend

TOTAL REVENUE AND DEFICIT

14,100

Deficit 2,500

A. E. JAMES

TOTAL EXPENDITURE

14,100

A E JAMES

Revenue 11,600 Current Expenditure 9,576

Defence and Security

Civil Ministries

3,800

5,166 350 210

Natural gas will generate another OMR1.46 billion, OMR2.38 billion from current revenues, OMR25 million from capital revenues and OMR35 million from capital repayments, taking the total revenue to OMR11.6 billion, according to a budget document released by the Ministry of Finance.

The budget document also said that current expenditure allocation for defence and security will be to the tune of OMR3.8 billion; civil ministries will get another OMR5.17 billion, OMR350 million for oil production, OMR210 million for gas produc-

Oil Interest Gas production production in Loans

ePassports with more security features for Omanis this month fahad@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: To enhance the security features in passports, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) is set to launch the electronic passport by the end of this month.

The process for the introduction of ePassports began in April 2014 in compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards — the specialised agency of the United Nations.

“The ePassport will provide a citizen with enhanced protection since it cannot be forged. It will include photograph and personal information of the passport holder with high security features,” an ROP official told Times of Oman.

The official said that the ePassport will use smart card technology, and will include a microchip that will not only detect manipulated documents but also confirm the identity of the person. The passport holder’s personal infor-

E-Passport anatomy

Looks like a traditional passport, but it contains an electronic chip encoded with surname, given name, date of birth and sex. Also includes a digital picture of the bearer's face.

Electronic chip

The electronic chip increases security, provides greater protection against tampering and reduces the risk of fraud.

Laminate Person ID

Antenna Graphics

mation, photograph, biometric information and digital security features stored in the chip will help detect fraud if any.

The ROP has signed a contract with a German firm for the ePassport project.

The official said that the elec-

tronic visa for expatriates was launched in mid-2014.

It aims at simplifying the process of online application without the need to go to the ROP, enhances security, helps maintain visitors’ database and automatically collects the fee.

TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

OMAN

Passengers stuck

1

Passengers on Air Arabia flight from Salalah to Chennai are reportedly stranded at Sharjah airport. >A2

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ROP marks annual day

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Corrigendum In the article titled ‘Government plans sale of stake to meet OMR2.5 billion deficit’, published in Times of Oman on January 5, there was a wrong reference to National Aluminium Products Co as one of the firms identified for share sale. The company is not owned by Oman government. The error is regretted.

Tracking of patients

2

Government hospitals and health institutions have begun tracking patients using electronic health file. >A3

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Iran’s exhibition

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Iran’s largest-ever exhibition in the GCC will open in Muscat on Tuesday. >A5

Investment expenditure

50 3,214

tion and another OMR50 million for interest loans.

As far as investment expenditure is concerned, allocation for civil ministries is estimated at OMR1.69 billion, oil production and gas production estimates at OMR780 million and OMR740 million, respectively, taking the total investment expenditure to OMR3.21 billion for 2015.

The document also gave a break-up of subsidies given by the government to various sectors, which include an interest subsidy of OMR35 million for housing loans, allocation for participation

SMART CARD TECHNOLOGY

FAHAD AL MUKRASHI

M AU R I TA N I A

HM receives thanks MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has received a cable of thanks from President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz of Mauritania in reply to His Majesty’s congratulatory cable on his country’s 54th Independence Anniversary. In his cable, President Abdel Aziz expressed his utmost happiness and sincere thanks for His Majesty the Sultan’s sincere feelings, praying to Allah to grant His Majesty good health and happiness and the Omani people further progress and prosperity. -ONA

businesseditor@ timesofoman.com

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Detailed plans for how Oman will make its money in 2015 -- and what it will spend that cash on -- have been officially released.

The State’s general budget was quietly released yesterday on the website of Ministry of Finance and details everything from spending on education, defence and government operations to how much the Sultanate intends to borrow this year.

It also reveals how calls to revise oil revenue expectations for 2015 have been heeded, and even exceeded, with the budget relying on an estimated price of $55.9 per barrel, far below the $80 called for by the Majlis Al Shura.

That $55.9 figure is based on Oman’s plan to produce 980,000 barrels per day of oil, as indicated

by Salim bin Said Al Oufy, the undersecretary at the Ministry of Oil and Gas, back in November. That will add OMR7.7 billion to Oman’s coffers this year.

OMR600m budget deficit in 2014

ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company

Subsidies and participation

1,310

in domestic, regional and international institutions at OMR200 million, support for government companies at OMR180 million, subsidy for essential food items at OMR35 million, electricity at OMR280 million and petroleum products at OMR580 million. In fact, there has been a decline in fuel subsidy as the recent plunge in crude price narrows down the gap between the rate at which oil is sold in the country and outside.

The government is going to rely on reserves and borrowing from within the country and overseas markets for meeting

MUSCAT: Oman is predicted to close 2014 with a deficit of around OMR600 million, in view of a 7 per cent growth in public expenditure (over the initial approved budget) and the drastic fall in crude oil prices in global markets. >A6

a major chunk of subsidies. Of the total OMR2.5 billion deficit, OMR200 million will be by way of net grants, OMR200m net foreign borrowing, OMR400m net domestic borrowing, OMR1b financial surpluses allocation and reserves of another OMR700m.

According to the Ministry of Finance, taxes and fees will fetch OMR1.334b, which include OMR500m by way of taxes, OMR330m customs duty, OMR245m from fee on foreign workers’ labour licences, OMR50m from telecommunication royalty fee and OMR30m from transport licences.

Oloum Al Shabiba launch today MUSCAT: To keep abreast with the latest local, regional and international developments and to provide people with timely news, Muscat Media Group will launch today, its new press service, Oloum Al Shabiba (Al Shabiba News) Bulletin. The video bulletin will be available at the Group’s channel on the Youtube, its website, and webpages of the social media. With latest news, the bulletin will sum up major events and incidents three times a day.

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OMAN C I V I L AV I AT I O N

Oman Air launches ‘Shape and Size’ efficiency programme Times News Service MUSCAT: Oman Air has launched an efficiency programme, titled ‘Shape and Size’, with the aim of achieving substantial reductions in the airline’s expenditure.

The move is timed to coincide with the start of 2015 and the onset of new budgets for the year.

The ‘Shape and Size’ efficiency

programme is targeting cost reductions across all activities undertaken by the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman. None of those reductions will affect the airline’s safety or the high standards of service offered to valued customers. A total reduction in expenditure of more than OMR100 million should be achieved by Oman Air over the next three

years, bringing the company to an operational break-even point by the end of 2017.

The Chief Executive Officer of Oman Air, Paul Gregorowitsch, said, “We are determined and committed to reshape Oman Air to become a more modern business-driven enterprise and one that does not solely rely on financial injections from the

Government of Oman. Oman Air contributed almost OMR420 million to the Gross National Product of the Sultanate during 2014. We are also aware that we have to contribute to the infrastructure of the country by serving domestic airports like Sohar.

Furthermore, and in line with the nation’s Omanisation policy, we are committed to developing for

the future the educational and career potential of young Omanis.

These important duties do not, however, constitute an excuse to run the airline as though it is a hobby.

Hard work “We all have to work hard and to make sacrifices to become an even better, service oriented, but

a self-supporting airline. We are in the business to be customer and profit-driven.

On January 15, 2015, more than 400 Oman Air employees will attend ‘To become the best’, a global event to be held in Muscat.

Here they will be briefed on how to contribute more effectively to the development of an efficient, profitable and respected airline.

Salalah-Chennai flight hit by fog When the flight reached Sharjah, the airline officials told the passengers that the flight was being cancelled due to bad weather

WEATHER SNAGS: Etihad Airways expects to operate a normal

flight schedule by Tuesday.–Supplied photo

REJIMON K reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Passengers on Saturday’s Air Arabia flight from Salalah to Chennai are reportedly stranded in Sharjah airport as the airline had to cancel its flight due to bad weather late night on Sunday.

“The flight was delayed for nearly three hours in Salalah.

When it reached Sharjah, its stopover, the airline officials told the passengers that due to bad weather the flight was being cancelled and the passengers would be flown on other flights,” Unnithan, the father of a stranded passenger, told Times of Oman.

“As my son had to appear in an examination, he opted for another flight of the same carrier to Ahmedabad. From there he has to purchase another ticket to Chennai. An Indian family, who are on an emergency trip, has also opted for the same plan and are with him,” said Unnithan.

According to some of the stranded passengers, there were Bangladeshi nationals also on board of the cancelled flight and food was provided only after several requests.

The airline’s online flight status from Salalah to Chennai revealed that there was no information

available. However, an official from the airline told Times of Oman that bad weather may have been the reason for the problems.

“There was a delay in Salalah, but we have to check for the reported issues in Sharjah,” said the official. Meanwhile, Etihad Airways expects to operate a normal flight schedule by Tuesday (6 January 2015), as operations are restored following the major disruptions caused by severe weather over the weekend.

A statement from the airlines said, “It is also operating four additional relief flights, Jakarta and Jeddah on Monday (5 January), and Bangkok and Phuket on Tuesday (6 January) which will assist passengers whose travel plans have been disrupted.

Severe fog It is expected that more than 95 per cent of passengers delayed by the severe fog, which caused the closure of Abu Dhabi International Airport, will have departed Abu Dhabi by tomorrow morning, with the remainder having departed by the end of the day.

Efforts have been helped by passengers originally scheduled to travel Monday and Tuesday (5 and 6 January), who took advantage of Etihad Airways’ offer of

free flight changes, to shift travel plans to later in January.

Etihad Airways mobilised more than 500 additional staff at the airport and city locations over the weekend, to assist guests stuck in Abu Dhabi as a result of the fog. The airline served more than 15,000 meals to guests at the airport, and provided more than 2,000 hotel rooms across the city.

The airline has announced it is to review its policies on the length of time aircraft can remain on the ground, with passengers aboard, while waiting for a take-off slot.

Whilst the departure of passengers to their onward destinations was a priority over the weekend, it has acknowledged customer concerns and has committed to a review of its procedures as soon as is feasible.

Abu Dhabi International Airport had to suspend operations for a period on January 3, 2015, as visibility fell below General Civil Aviation Authority-mandated safety limits.

“We apologise to its guests for any inconvenience caused as a result of this airport closure, for mandated safety reasons, and thanks them for their patience during these extremely challenging few days,” the Etihad statement said.

JUDICIARY

Palestinian judicial team meets Busaidi MUSCAT: Sheikh Dr. Ishaq bin Ahmed Al Busaidi, Chairman of the Supreme Court, Deputy Chairman of the Judicial Supreme Council and Head of the Judicial Administrative Affairs Council on Monday received a Palestinian judicial delegation headed by Ali Al Muhanna, Head of the Supreme Judicial Council in the State of Palestine, who is currently visiting the Sultanate.

The two sides discussed matters of common interest between the two countries in the judicial field and touched on the role played by the courts.

The conversation dealt with the experience of the Sultanate in the independence of the judiciary and discussed bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the field of justice, law and the exchange of different experiences in this regard.

The delegation also visited the Ministry of Legal Affairs, met with Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Saeedi, Minister of Legal Affairs and were briefed on the legislative system in the Sultanate and the role of the ministry in the development of laws and regulations in coordination with the ministries and government agencies by making the legal opinion, issuing fatwas and official interpretations adopted by the Sultanate of royal decrees, laws and ministerial decisions. –ONA

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Electronic health data link to boost medical facilities Health care services in the Sultanate Electronic national health file is to register patients using their civil number, thus allowing all hospitals in the Sultanate to share files and health histories of patients according to international standards.

86%

of the health institutions in the Sultanate are included in the new system

J E B E L S I FA H M A R I NA

Floating fuel station launched Times News Service MUSCAT: Muriya, Oman’s leading tourism development company, recently opened a floating fuel station at Jebel Sifah, designed to provide a refuelling location for boats and yachts.

The station adds a new facet to the 84-berth marina by allowing residents to fill up onsite, while encouraging passing boats to enter Jebel Sifah and explore the growing array of dining, retail and accommodation options.

Marko Randjelovic, Marina Manager at Muriya’s Jebel Sifah destination, said, “The floating fuel station is an important new amenity in the ongoing development of Jebel Sifah that delivers fuel directly to residents and to

Patients Registered

908

HEALTHCARE SERVICE: Things are changing as healthcare providers are heading towards cloud computing and virtualisation.

According to the Ministry of Health, 86 per cent of its institutions, including government hospitals and health institutions, are covered by the new system. – File photo

Royal Hospital

139

780

Nizwa Hospital

P U B L I C A D M I N I S T R AT I O N

663

Al Nahdha Hospital

Health institutions already registered 90 percent of their patients on the first day

Source: Ministry of Health

Graphics

The purpose of the electronic national health file is to register patients using their civil number, thus allowing all hospitals in the Sultanate to share files and health

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histories of patients. Hospitals sharing health-related data base will enable them to store and retrieve detailed patient information for medical convenience

FAHAD AL GHADANI fahadnews@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: With all government hospitals and health institutions in Oman linked electronically with effect from January 1, and private hospitals next in line to plug into the same database, health care delivery in the Sultanate is set to see a new phase of modernisation while reducing costs and enhancing efficiency.

Private hospital doctors in Oman have also called for all the government and private hospitals to be electronically linked to further improve the state of health care services in the Sultanate.

The purpose of the electronic national health file is to register patients using their civil number, thus allowing all hospitals in the Sultanate to share files and health histories of patients, as per international standards.

Dr K P Raman, owner and chairman of Al Hayat Hospital, said the move will help improve the health care system, benefitting Omanis and expatriates. “It will the help the patients by avoiding duplication of diagnosis and thus bringing down the cost of treatment,” he said.

Elaborating further, he said the private and the government hospitals sharing health related data base will enable hospitals to store and retrieve detailed patient information that health care providers can use whenever a patient is hospitalised.

“This will also help hospitals in

case of road accidents and other emergencies. It would provide safer, more effective care than is possible by relying on memory and paper-based systems. Also, this will help the hospitals to monitor, improve, and report data on health care quality and safety,” he said.

The medical director at the Atlas Hospital in Ruwi, Rajagopal T. Naganathan, said that right now, all the health records are being stored on e-files system in case of all patients as directed by the Ministry of Health. “We are now trying to link these with other branches of Atlas,” he said.

Another doctor said that things are changing as healthcare providers are heading towards cloud computing and virtualisation.

“Gradually, we will find that all private and government hospitals are linked together,” he said.

According to the Ministry of Health, 86 per cent of the its institutions, including government hospitals and health institutions, in the Sultanate are covered by the new system. In the last phase of the programme, private health institutions’ records will be brought online.

In an Oman TV phone interview with Abdullah Al Raqadi, the General Manager of the IT department at the Ministry of Health, it was reported that almost 139 health institutions registered 90 per cent of their patients on the first day. “A total of 908 were registered in the Royal Hospital, 663 in Al Nahdha Hos-

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pital and 780 in the Nizwa Hospital,” Al Raqadi said.

He also explained that most patients’ histories recorded before the new system went online will appear in electronic health files. “The system will reduce the time patients spend in different health institutions,” said Al Raqadi. He added that the electronic health file will help doctors in making decisions concerning patient care.

Common people, too, responded favourably to the electronic health file system.

Medical reports Many felt the system will help in better organising health care services in the Sultanate. “The new system will save us time and money,” said Saif Al Wishahi, working in the government sector. He added that each hospital often only accepted medical reports from its own labs, rejecting those generated by other hospitals.

“The electronic health file will save all my medical reports, and I can go to any doctor without having to undergo repeat examinations,” said Al Wishahi.

Huzaim Al Mani, working in the private sector, told Al Wishahi that the electronic health file system will save patients time and money. “It will save the hospital time and also the medicines provided by government hospitals,” said Al Mani.

He explained that medicines often used to go waste as patients were bothered little by how much medicine they received from different hospitals, especially government hospitals, since medicines are part of free service for nationals. However, the electronic health file will list all medicines prescribed for patients, regardless of the hospital they visit, said Al Mani.

Training plans reviewed by Sheikh Khalid MUSCAT: Board of Directors of the Institute of Public Administration held its meeting under the chairmanship of Sheikh Khalid bin Omar bin Said Al Marhoon, Minister of Civil Service and Chairman of the Institute. At the beginning of the meeting, the board reviewed the special report on the follow up of the decisions taken by the board at its third meeting in 2014. It also reviewed a number of reports on the activities of the Institute during last year.

The Board considered the Institute draft training plan for 2015 which includes 255 training programs in the field of public administration, finance, administrative jobs, public relations and media, in addition to 94 scientific programmes.

A number of the training programs will be implemented in cooperation with the Arab Organization for Administrative Development. -ONA

UNIQUE STATION: The fuel station has been engineered as a stable

platform with a 24 metre long pontoon.–Supplied photo

boaters around the area. This will help position our destination as a strategic stopping point for boats to explore nearby dive sites located along the scenic coastline.”

The station is operated in partnership with Al Maha Petroleum and is equipped with two 50,000 litre tanks providing both diesel and Petrol fuel.

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A reorientation in the strategies and efforts will certainly make Oman one of the most fascinating tourist destinations for ‘halal tourism’ Dr Dileep M.R., Asst. Professor, Salalah College of Applied Sciences

E-SPORTS TOURNAMENT

Video gamers to slug it out for ‘GCC King of Fighter’ crown TARIQ AL HAREMI MUSCAT: Encouraged by the growing interest in e-Sports, Oman is all set to host the GCC King of Fighter tournament.

The first-of-its-kind tournament, organised by Oman Fighting Game Community (Oman FGC), it will be held at Chef Inn in Athaiba on Friday.

“The hosting of the competition has been welcomed by the expanding the video game community in the Sultanate. Several competitors from the GCC have reportedly already booked hotel rooms,” said the organiser.

E-Sports, or electronic sports, is the term coined for organised video game competitions. Its massive popularity in the UAE has seen players from across the globe, including Oman, participating in tournaments, namely fighting games, sports and role playing games for cash prizes and a prestigious status in the video game world. Players include professional gamers, working adults and youth.

“Video games in general are popular among the youth and working adults. The youth in particular play video games to the extent of addiction,” said Ayman Khatib, organiser of the Street Fighter 3rd Strike Clash Tournament 2014, which was held in Abu Dhabi earlier this month.

This is the third time I am participating ... It is not just for fun, but because the competitiveness and the atmosphere make it that much more exciting E-GAMES TUSSLE: The hosting of the competition has been welcomed by the expanding video game

community in Oman. Several competitors from GCC have already booked hotel rooms.– Supplied photo

Just like other communities, gamers are brought together through social events, competitions and gaming events such as Games ‘14, Comic Con and IGN Convention.

Competitive environment “There are many reasons why video games are an integral part of our lives. Firstly, they help us kill

time when we are free. But most importantly, it is the competitive environment, especially in fighting games, that surrounds the players, from the focus of the player on winning to the cheer of the spectators,” said Khatib.

Though gamers are not taken too seriously, there are individuals who are sponsored by video game production companies and

developers to play their games live online such as Daigo Umehara from Japan and Justin Wong from the USA. In other words, they are earning a living by playing video games.

Fighting games in general have technical names for moves and actions, such as frame traps, set ups, one character victory (OCV) etc. just as in case of boxing or wres-

Nasser Mukhaini

Oman Fighting Game Community

tling. Today, the global video game market is worth approximately $93 billion, which is the fourth largest industry on earth.

Abu Dhabi tournament Earlier this month, the UAE 3rd Strike Fighting Game Community organised a Street Fighter tournament, a popular fighting game franchise since the late 80’s that

Time to tap growing demand for ‘halal tourism’ segment The latest addition to the whole gamut of tourism market is the Muslim segment which has certain specific characteristics, with demands for exclusive services and facilities. Oman needs to tap this growing market of ‘halal tourism’ NEW AVENUES: Oman enjoys all the reasons to promote ‘halal tourism’ as the most prominent category in the country, and the sector needs substantial investment in building up facilities.–File photo

DR. DILEEP M.R. MUSCAT: Sultanate of Oman, one of the most astonishing tourist destinations in the Middle East region, has to tap the immense potential of ‘halal tourism’, which is one of the fastest growing tourism category the world over.

Many destinations across the world have already taken measures to lure the surging Muslim travel propensity by ensuring exclusive services and facilities that can cater to the needs of this traveller segment.

In the GCC, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are fast moving ahead with ‘halal tourism’ initiatives and branding efforts to take advantage of domestic cultural and religious environments to entice this subcategory of the tourism sector comprising travellers abiding by Sharia rules.

Unlike the competing destinations with artificial attractions in the region, Oman certainly has an advantage as it is magnificent with enchanting natural features and splendid culture and heritage. Oman enjoys all the reasons to promote ‘halal tourism’ as the most prominent category in the country, and the sector needs substantial investment in building up facilities that match the requirements and to brand it across the world as a competitive location for ‘halal tourism’.

The emergence of Muslim travel segment as a major one is indeed a natural evolution which occurred along with the overall economic development of the societies. Once upon a time, before the demise of the global imperialism, travel, rather called precisely as tourism, was limited to a few: the ‘rich and

the aristocratic’, the lucky lot of upper class of the colonial empires, and the religious missionaries.

Currently, the tourism industry, has penetrated into almost all the societies across the world, and thus identified newer market segments at regular intervals. The latest addition to the whole gamut of tourism market is the Muslim segment which has certain specific characteristics, with demands for exclusive services and facilities.

Realising the fast growing outbound tourism from the Arab region, especially from the GCC, competing tourism destination countries are in a hurry to rope in this potential. Sultanate of Oman is no exception, and according to the UN World Tourism Association (UNWTO), Oman’s outbound tourism is growing rapidly.

In 2010, the expenditure made

by Omani tourists in foreign countries increased by 36 per cent ($ 1768m) compared to the previous year.

The year 2012 saw an increase of 12 per cent and the next year, it was more than 10 per cent ($2184m).

‘Halal tourism’ represents the form of tourism in which specific arrangements are made for the incoming Muslim tourists who are looking for services in accordance with their religious principles, such as restaurants serving halal meat and hotels with dedicated prayer areas, with the specified premises not serving any alcohol. Moreover, they may also look for separate swimming pools or beaches for men and women. At the same time, it doesn’t mean that ‘halal tourism’ is all about offering

Hotels here serve no alcohol, spas have separate areas for men and women, religious programmes are offered as part of in-flight entertainment, and prayer timings are announced to all. This segment not only represents 13 per cent of the global total, but is going to be worth $200 billion by the end of this decade.

World Travel and Tourism Council report tourist attractions which are religiously associated.

Fast growing sub-segment World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the leading global professional body in tourism, has identified this type of tourism as a fast growing sub- segment. According to them, this sub-category of the tourism sector is focused mainly on individuals abiding by Sharia rules. “Hotels here serve no alcohol, spas have separate areas for men and women, religious programmes are offered as part of in-flight entertainment, and prayer timings are announced to all,” reports the WTTC. They estimate that this segment not only represents 13 per cent of the global total, but is going to be worth $200 billion by the end of this decade.

The leading destinations are gearing up to rope in the fast grow-

ing Islamic market segment. Some, along with ensuring specific facilities and services, are already in a race to be branded as ‘Halal Tourist Destination.’ Turkey, for instance is far ahead in this respect as it has already ensured halal hotels that have come up fast in recent years.

It offers a very wide range of Sharia compliant services, making it an ideal destination for Islamic tourism. Along with Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia and Morocco, too, have braced up to tap the Muslim travel market, thanks to the global Muslim population of some 1.6 billion.

According to the Crescent Rating agency, this market segment is now worth $140bn (£84bn; 106bn euros), and may rise up to $192 billion by 2020. Even GCC countries have also started to promote ‘halal tourism’. Abu Dhabi is leading by offering a range of holiday packages adhering to Islamic beliefs

and practices.

The authorities there are in a hurry to rope in tour operators and hospitality groups to offer tailormade packages to halal tourists who do not wish to compromise their Islamic values while holidaying. Dubai is already the world’s most popular family destination that offers necessary facilities for halal tourists, as well. Many European countries have realized the economic significance of this fast growing market segment and initiatives are being launched to attract more Muslim tourists to visit their destinations.

Recently, Japan has come up with strategies to attract Muslim tourists. Halal food is being arranged and special facilities are being ensured. South Africa has formulated plans to attract halal tourists as it considers ‘halal tourism’ as a potential gold mine.

In Asia, Malaysia is considered a pioneer in attracting Muslim tourists. Arab investors reportedly spent more than $300 million building two “Arab cities” in Malacca, Malaysia.

While Muslims engaging in international travel hail from both Muslim-majority and Muslimminority countries, the list of the preferred countries is expanding.

These tourists predominantly hail from Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United Arabic Emirates, Indonesia, Kuwait, Turkey, Nigeria, Malaysia, Qatar and Egypt. Sultanate of Oman is a recent addition to this. Their preferred destinations are Malaysia, Turkey, the UAE, Singapore, Russia, China, France, Thailand and Italy, as such countries cater to ‘halal tourism’. In Europe, according to Crescent Rating, France has become the most-sought-after destination, followed by England and Italy. The UK has been named the best halalfriendly destination by Crescent Rating and many hotels across Europe are now starting to provide exclusive services and facilities to cater to Muslim tourists.

For the Sultanate of Oman, the need of the hour is to invigorate the processes to tap the potential of ‘halal tourism’ effectively. Of course, some projects have been begun for Sharia-compliant ‘alcohol-free’ hotels.

Moreover, many hotels and other service centres have exclusive facilities as per the needs of this category of travellers. The local cultural environment is certainly an advantage for promoting this type of tourism. Yet, increased initiatives can make the destination an ideal one for ‘halal tourism’. A reorientation in the strategies and efforts will certainly make Oman one of the most fascinating tourist destinations for ‘halal tourism’.

Dr Dileep M.R. is Asst. Professor, Salalah College of Applied Sciences

witnessed 30 competitors to battle it out for the top spot. Of the nationals arriving from outside the UAE included Japanese, Brazilian and two players from Oman.

“This is the third time I am participating in the UAE. Whenever I have the chance, I go there because I love it. It is not just for fun, but because the competitiveness and the atmosphere make it that much more exciting,” said Nasser Mukhaini of the Oman Fighting Game Community (Oman FGC) and one of the competitors in the tournament. “I also benefit from socialising with the other players and learning new things about video games. The competition makes you a better player by increasing your thought and reaction process while playing,” he added.

When asked about the closeness of the community in the GCC, Nasser said, “Once you get to know other players, they become like brothers and sisters as well as others outside the GCC. We also contributed to sponsoring the Japanese players to compete in this year’s tournament.”

Two Japanese players claimed the first and third spots of the competition, while second place went to a UAE national. Each went home with a trophy and a medal.

For participation, one may contact Oman FGC at facebook.com. oups/789053864479827/?fref=ts.

Spectators are free to enter.

MISLEADING REPORT

Ministry refutes reports of zakat funds

The Awqaf Ministry requested the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to examine the issue as the report appeared in a newspaper and TV channel. Stories should be cross checked before publishing Government official Times News Service MUSCAT: Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs has refuted the news reports which stated that extra cash from the Gulf zakat fund would be handed over to Oman.

A reliable source at the ministry said, “The news is incorrect and there is nothing official about it.”

He clarified that the ministry did not have any discussions with anyone on this issue.

“The Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs requested the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to examine the issue as the report appeared in a newspaper and a TV channel,” said the source.

The ministry’s records show that the amount of zakat money that had accumulated since 2009 was OMR1 million and the money was spent on local and international charities.

Many people expressed unhappiness at the news getting such publicity in the media in the Gulf countries.

“Stories should be cross checked before publishing,” said a senior official.

He informed that this is not the first time these kinds of frivolous reports have been carried out by the media.

“Some years back there was a report on a TV programme where they said that used computers in one of the Gulf countries were being given to poor countries including Oman,” he added.

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N AVA L D I P L O M A C Y

India to train 100 Omanis in technical education this year

Around 183 Omanis are being trained for the last couple of years and this year we will be training another 100 for higher studies, including in the Indian army and the navy.

The selection of students are being done by the Sultan Armed Forces PEACE MISSION: A series of events will be planned throughout 2015 to celebrate the diamond jubilee of India-Oman diplomatic relations, and the visit of ICGS Vijit marks

Captain Arjun Dev Nair Defence attache, Indian Embassy

the beginning. – Photos and Videos by AR Rajkumar/TIMES OF OMAN

Times News Service MUSCAT: The co-operation which India shares with Oman is heart-warming and amazing, and Omanis are receiving training in academic and technical fields in India, J.S. Mukul, India’s ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, said.

The Indian government will train around 100 Omanis in several colleges in India for higher education in 2015, informed Captain Arjun Dev Nair, defence attache, Indian Embassy in Muscat.

He was speaking on board Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Vijit,

which was making a friendly visit to Port Sultan Qaboos, to mark the 60th anniversary of India-Oman diplomatic ties, with the Indian Consulate in Muscat having first opened its doors in 1955.

“Around 183 Omanis are being trained for the last couple of years and this year we will be training another 100 for higher studies, including in the Indian army and the navy. The selection of students are being done by the Sultan Armed Forces,” he said.

“They are very eager learners and have very high potential,” said the defence attache.

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He also said the visit of ICGS Vijit’ will boost bilateral ties between two countries.

“India and Oman enjoy longlasting co-operation in various fields, which is strengthened by regular port visits between the two countries,” he said.

He also said that a series of events throughout 2015 will be

Iran’s exhibition to set landmark The exhibition coincides with the

Iran to set-up $1.5b hospital complex in Barka by 2018

meetings of the Oman-Iran Joint Economic Committee in Muscat. Iran is keen to invest in Oman and has plans to establish a smelter and a hospital in Duqm along with other projects

ELHAM POURMOHAMMADI elham@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: The largest exhibition that Iran has ever held in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region will open at the Oman International Exhibition Centre in Muscat on Tuesday.

“Around 100 companies will be participating in the exhibition, and this is the first time that such an exhibition is being held with the participation of companies from all over Iran. The previous exhibits were limited to some provinces,” Iranian Ambassador Ali Akbar Sibeveih told a press conference on Monday.

Ali bin Masoud Al Sunaidy, Oman’s minister of commerce and industry, and Mohammad Reza Nematzadeh, Iran’s minister of industry, mining and trade, will attend the inauguration ceremony. The exhibition will conclude on Saturday. According to the ambassador, four models of Iranianmanufactured cars will be on display at the show along with a wide range of other products.

Iranian companies supplying foodstuff and food-related machinery, agricultural products and equipment, products and machinery used in the metal industry as well as medical and pharmaceutical equipment will be displaying their products.

The exhibition coincides with the meetings of the Oman-Iran

ELHAM POURMOHAMMADI

elham@timesofoman.com

MUSCAT: A $1.5 billion multi-speciality hospital complex that Iran plans to establish in Barka will be ready by 2018, said Iranian Ambassador Ali Akbar Sibeveih.

The hospital complex will also include a four-star hotel for the convenience of patients and specialists, said Sibeveih at a press conference on Monday.

According to him, the 400-bed hospital will be equipped with the latest medical facilities and has the potential to become a hub for patients from Oman, other

Gulf countries and beyond.

Around 400 to 500 people will be working at the hospital, a majority of whom will be Iranians, he said, adding that the facility will also create many job opportunities for Omani nationals.

Iranian doctors based in Germany, the United States and the United Kingdom will also visit the hospital on a regular basis to perform certain operations, Sibeveih added.

The construction of the complex will begin soon, Sibeveih said, noting that there will be a well-equipped training department for Omani nurses and doctors as well.

Four models of Iranianmanufactured cars will be on display at the show Ali Akbar Sibeveih Iranian Ambassador to Oman Joint Economic Committee in Muscat, which is aimed at boosting economic relations between the two countries. The preliminary meetings of the committee had been scheduled for Monday and Tuesday and the main meeting will be held at the ministerial level on Wednesday, said Sibeveih.

The official also noted that Iran is keen to invest further in Oman and has plans to establish a smelter and a hospital in Duqm along with a number of other projects.

He called for further co-operation between Iranian and Omani companies, especially in the private sector, in all areas.

Asked whether Iran plans to contribute to Oman’s railway

project, the ambassador said that Iran has mastered advanced technology in the railway sector, which it is interested in sharing with the Sultanate.

According to the latest statistics from Oman’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the value of Oman’s imports from Iran stood at OMR215,774,867 in 2013, a 172.2 per cent increase compared to 2012, during which the value of imports from Iran to Oman was placed at OMR79,262,355.

Omani exports to Iran (exports and re-exports) totalled OMR124,261,002 in 2013, an increase of 8.4 per cent against OMR114,673,887 in 2012.

planned to celebrate the diamond jubilee of India-Oman diplomatic relations, and the visit of ICGS Vijit marks the beginning.

ICGS Vijit, the second in the series of 90-metre offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), was designed and built in India by Goa Shipyard Limited and was commissioned on December 11, 2010, in Goa. Vijit, meaning victorious, is a projection of Indian Coast Guard’s will and commitment ‘To Serve and Protect’ the maritime interests of the nation.

ICGS Vijit has 19 officers and 120 other personnel under the

Command of Deputy Inspector General Rakesh Pal and is based at Porbandar in the state of Gujarat.

Since commissioning, the ship has spent 600 days at sea and logged 10,1537 nautical miles. “We arrived in Muscat after visiting Qatar, Bahrain and Dubai and from here we will again set sail for Porbandar,” said Pal. This OPV is equipped with the most advanced navigation and communication equipment, sensors and machinery with state-ofthe-art technology. The ship also has several other special features.

The sustenance and reach, cou-

pled with the latest and modern equipment and systems, provides her with the capability to accomplish all coast guard charter of duties.

After joining the coast guard, the ship has been deployed extensively for the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) surveillance and such other duties as are enshrined in the coast guard Charter.

The vessel has been deployed largely in the North Western region, more so along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), to safeguard India’s maritime interests.

RAFO LAUNCHES HELICOPTER EXERCISE

Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO) on Monday launched its helicopter exercise at Al Mesanaah air base with the participation of a number of units from Sultan’s Armed Forces (SAF) and Sultan Special Force (SSF). The exercise was held under the command of Air Commodore Saleh bin Abdullah Al Maamari, Director of Projects. The exercise aims at activating the joint work for helicopters with SAF and other military and security services. It also aims at enhancing the operational and training capacity for helicopter pilots, as well as training on the joint work at the electronic warfare and its application in reality in cooperation with other forces units. It is also aimed at assessing the efficiency of the modern systems used in these helicopters. A number of RAFO helicopters supported by some units from SAF and SSF will be implementing joint missions, including air landing operation, fire support, marine recon, rope dropping, evacuation, and search and rescue. — ONA

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ROP MARKS ANNUAL DAY WITH PARADE

The celebration kicked off with a parade by the ROP band followed by a speech by Gen. Saeed Al Hilali Staff Reporter MUSCAT: Under the patronage of Lt. General Said bin Ali Al Hilali, the chief of the internal security service, Royal Oman Police (ROP) celebrated its 37th annual day with a military parade at the Sultan Qaboos Academy for Police Sciences in Nizwa on Monday.

The celebration kicked off with a parade by the ROP band staged by graduates from the 33rd batch of higher diploma and university officers, specialised officers, new recruits and policewomen, followed by a speech by Al Hilali expressing his gratitude at being able to patronise the celebration.

Congratulating the ROP, Al Hi-

lali lauded its effective presence in the overall development process, led by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. He also affirmed the importance of this effort and the use of all available means to maintain the security and safety of Oman.

After that, the 37th batch of graduate officers handed over the banner of the Sultan Qaboos Academy for Police Sciences to the 38th batch of candidate officers. The ROP band, then played the royal anthem, and the event concluded with the ROP cavalry parade.

Photographs were taken of Al Hilali along with the Inspector General of Police and Customs Lt Gen Hassan bin Mohsin Al Shuraiqi with the officers’ batches.

NCSI

< FROM

A1 Growth in government expenditure will add to deficit However, Oman’s budget surplus stood at OMR233.5 million for the first eleven months of 2014, a decline of 61.7 per cent compared to the same period of the previous year at OMR610.2 million, according to official statistics released by National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).

This is against Oman government’s deficit projection at OMR1.8 billion, which was an-

nounced early last year. However, there could be a deficit for the entire year due to a 7 per cent growth in government expenditure, over the initial budget estimate, said an economic analyst, who did not want to be named.

“There was a significant drop in oil prices towards the last quarter of 2014. Oman crude was quoting slightly higher than $60 per barrel in December. Further, the subsidy

estimate will go up at the end of the year,” said the economic analyst, adding, “The deficit for the entire year could be around OMR600m (which was estimated by the government).”

Actual revenue The Oman government said the actual revenue for 2014 is estimated at OMR13.9 billion, against the initial approved estimate of

OMR11.7 billion, while actual expenditure estimate is OMR14.5 billion (7 per cent higher than the approved budget), which will leave a deficit of OMR600 million.

The government’s total revenue fell by 2.5 per cent to OMR12,468.7 million from OMR12,786.6 million, while net oil income alone receded by 3.2 per cent to OMR9,434.8 million from OMR9749.4 million during

the first eleven-month period under review. Although total crude oil production between January and November last year grew by 1.5 per cent to 286.18 million barrels, the average price of Oman Crude inched down by 0.7 per cent to $104.7 per barrel from $105.4 a barrel for the same period of 2013.

Government expenditure Also, total government expendi-

ture surged ahead by 14.2 per cent to OMR11,135.2 million from OMR9,752.5 million during the eleven-month period under review.

Of the total expenditure, current expenditure from January to November surged ahead by 21.1 per cent to OMR7,031 million, while investment expenditure was up by 10.2 per cent to OMR2,667.4 million.

T U E S DAY, JAN UARY 6, 2 0 1 5

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REGION

After consultations, both within the party and with other parties, there is consensus around the name of Habib Essid as candidate for the post of head of government Mohamed Ennaceur, Vice-president, Nidaa Tounes

VIOLENCE

Six militiamen injured as bomb targets Houthis in Sanaa SANAA: A bomb wounded six Houthi militiamen in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, on Monday, a security official said, the latest in spate of attacks on the Houthi fighters who overran Sanaa in September.

The blast left a hole in the wall of the building, which was used as a base by the Houthis, witnesses said. Photographs posted on Yemeni social media accounts, which could not be immediately verified, showed the front of a building in which the windows had been blown out and bricks were missing from around the door.

The blast hit the building in the Hayel district of Sanaa, an official said. It came a day after a bombing claimed by Al Qaeda killed four people, including a journalist, at

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a Houthi gathering in the city of Dhamar, south of the capital.

On Thursday, a suicide bomber killed 49 people at a religious celebration organised by Houthi supporters in the militia-held but city of Ibb further south. The Houthis have met resistance from armed gunmen, including Al Qaeda loyalists, since they swept south from the capital into many areas late last year. A series of bomb attacks by AQAP in recent weeks have struck Houthi targets, — Agencies

DAMAGED: Security members of the Houthi movement and emergency personnel gather outside a building used by the Houthi police

force that was damaged by a bombing in Sanaa on Monday. – AFP

Lebanon begins its visa restrictions on Syrians The decision comes as Lebanon struggles to deal with more than 1.1 million Syrian refugees

BEIRUT: Overwhelmed by a massive influx of desperate refugees, Lebanon began imposing unprecedented visa restrictions on Syrians on Monday, including those fleeing their country’s civil war.

“Today we began implementing the new entry measures and Syrians at the borders have begun presenting their documents to enter,” a source at Lebanon’s general security agency said.

First in history The visa restrictions are the first in the history of the two countries and come as Lebanon struggles to deal with more than 1.1 million Syrian refugees.

The influx has tested the country’s limited resources, as well as the patience of its citizens, par-

LIMITING INFLUX: Mona, centre, a Syrian refugee woman, sits

beside her newborn twins inside a tent at a makeshift settlement in Bar Elias in the Bekaa valley on Monday. – Reuters

ticularly as security has deteriorated. For months, Lebanon’s government has sounded the alarm, warning the international community that it could no longer deal with the influx.

In October, Social Affairs Minister Rashid Derbas said Lebanon would stop accepting displaced Syrians, with exceptions on humanitarian grounds only.

He said that the new visa requirement was intended to limit the flood of new arrivals.

“The goal is to prevent (Syrians) from taking refuge” in Leba-

non, and “to more seriously regulate the entry of Syrians”.

Khalil Jebara, adviser to Lebanon’s interior minister, said the country would continue to provide humanitarian exceptions, but that restrictions were needed.

“We respect our international obligations... we will not expel anyone and there will be humanitarian exceptions,” he said.

“But it’s high time to regulate the issue of Syrians entering Lebanon,” he added. “Their presence imposes a great security, economic and social burden on Lebanon,

G OV E R N M E N T F O R M AT I O N

NEW ROLE: Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi, right, meets with prime minister designate Habib Essid on Monday. – AFP

Former interior minister to become Tunisia’s new PM TUNIS: Former interior minister Habib Essid, who held a number of posts under Tunisia’s ousted regime, has been tasked with forming a government as prime minister designate, he announced on Monday.

Essid, a top interior ministry civil servant under toppled leader Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, made the announcement after a meeting with Beji Caid Essebsi who last month won Tunisia’s first free presidential election.

Honoured “I had the honour of being received today by the president who tasked me with forming the new government,” Essid told reporters at the presidential palace.

“Consultations with (political)

parties and civil society will begin,” he added, without giving a date for the launch of talks.

The prime minister designate has a month — renewable once — to form a cabinet and win parliamentary approval for his line-up.

His name was put forward by Essebsi’s Nidaa Tounes party which won October parliamentary elections by securing 86 of the 217 seats. Essid, 65, held government positions without ever being minister under Ben Ali’s ironfisted regime but returned after Tunisia’s 2011 revolution.

After a stint as interior minister, he served as security adviser to prime minister Hamadi Jebali of the Ennahda party.

“After consultations, both within the party and with oth-

er parties, there is consensus around the name of Habib Essid as candidate for the post of head of government,” Nidaa Tounes vice-president Mohamed Ennaceur told reporters. “He is an independent figure... who has skills and experience,” Ennaceur said, singling out his “knowledge of security matters”.

Ennahda, which came second in the polls, has not ruled out joining a coalition with Nidaa Tounes.

The movement reacted positively to Essid’s nomination and said it would be ready to join a cabinet under his premiership.

“We have held a principled position since before the elections that we are in favour of a government of national unity,” said Ennahda spokesman Zied Ladhari. — AFP

and pressure that the infrastructure can no longer take.”

Unlike Jordan and Turkey, Lebanon declined to create refugee camps, meaning refugees are dispersed throughout the country.

It has also seen its fragile security situation deteriorate, with militants from Syria briefly overrunning Arsal -- a border town in eastern Lebanon hosting tens of thousands of refugees -- in August and kidnapping several dozen Lebanese police and soldiers.

A spokesman at Lebanon’s general security agency said the measures would help track the huge refugee population, which the government estimates at 1.5 million people. “We have a problem called 1.5 million Syrians and there is no magical solution for it, these measures are the first step,” he said. “It’s a way to track Syrians... so we know where to find them.”

UN refugee agency UNHCR has registered 1.1 million arrivals, but many more are thought to be in the country unregistered, and thousands have entered Lebanon through illegal crossings.

Lina Khatib, director of the Carnegie Middle East Centre think-tank, said the visa measures were a result of Lebanon’s failure to implement a refugee policy early in the Syrian conflict.— AFP

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INDIA

These are not easy issues to solve. I think it is important that a great deal of importance be focused on curtailing the mechanism by which money continues to go out of India. That has more chance of success than getting very much black money back into India Raymond Baker, GFI president

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CONGRESS CLAIM

PROTEST AGAINST LAND ORDINANCE

Police lathi charge Youth Congress supporters at their protest against the BJP government’s land ordinance, near the BJP office in New Delhi, on Monday. The union cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had last week decided to amend the Land Acquisition Act to bring under its purview 13 central legislations, including those relating to defence and national security, to provide higher compensation and rehabilitation and resettlement benefits to farmers whose land is being acquired. - PTI

In Modi era, petrol costs more than aviation fuel NEW DELHI: Petrol for common man costs more than the aviation turbine fuel used in planes, Congress said on Monday while seeking to paint the Narendra Modi government as antipoor and questioning it for the “grave injustice”.

What is “more painful” today is the fact that the price of petrol paid by the common man is Rs61.33 per litre as against price of aviation fuel which is Rs52.42 per litre, Congress spokesman Randeep Surjewala told reporters here.

Terming it as “most shocking”, he said the government is “antipoor and anti-farmer” as he accused it of “shameless profiteering” and “betraying” the people by refusing to reduce the prices of petrol.

“Will the BJP and Modi answer the fundamental reason for this grave injustice to the people where they pay more for fuel in ordinary scooter/motorcycle/ car/tractor as compared to the Aviation Turbine Fuel used by airplanes,” he asked.

G L O B A L T H I N K- TA N K

Government should focus on curtailing black money outflow WASHINGTON: India’s efforts to bring back black money stashed abroad may not succeed as major western economies, including the US and UK, are the main beneficiaries of illicit funds, a global think-tank has said, underlining that the government should instead focus more on curtailing its outflow which has jumped nine-fold since 2003.

“These are not easy issues to solve. I think it is important that a great deal of importance be focused on curtailing the mechanism by which money continues to go out of India. That has more chance of success than getting very much black money back into India,” US-based Global Financial Integrity (GFI) president Raymond Baker said.

In a report last month, GFI said that the outflow of black money from India to foreign countries has increased nine-fold from $10 billion in 2003 to $94.7 billion in 2012.

Nine-fold increase These figures are on the conservative side and the actual amount could be much larger, Baker said.

“Getting black money back for any country is a hard thing to do, because international mechanism does not basically support this,” he said, noting that the major western countries like the US and UK, which are the main beneficiaries of black money from countries like India would not like to stop this illicit flow of money into their economies.

“There is a global view that the money that has been stolen by government officials or corruptly acquired should be returned to

the country of origin, but there is no such global understanding with regard to the money generated in the commercial sector which was tax evading,” Baker said. The money generated through tax evasion is the bulk of the illicit money that has gone out of India, he said.

One of the things, Baker said, that Prime Minister Narendra Modi could do “very effectively” is to put this issue much more effectively and solidly on the agenda of the G-20.

He said that it is not just the return of the corruptly stolen money, but it is also the whole issue of cross border illicit flow of money that needs to be addressed.

“This issue is crying out for a major figure from the emerging market and developing world to insist that this must be addressed at the level of G-20,” Baker said.

The GFI chief noted that most of the outflow of illicit money is through misinvoicing, and with India’s international trade increasing in recent years, the black money going out of the country has also jumped.

However, he said, GFI has no idea or data on the amount of black money goes out of India through political leaders and government officials involved in corrupt practices, but an overwhelming majority is through commercial malpractices.

The issue of black money has been a matter of a serious political debate in India, including during the last general elections and the Modi government has said that it is committed to bring back illicit funds stashed in tax havens abroad. - PTI

Seeking to paint the government pro-rich, he said the “irony” is that the price of aviation fuel has been reduced by 31.24 per cent as against a “mere reduction” of 15.73 per cent and 11.38 per cent in prices of petrol and diesel,respectively.

‘Most shocking, painful’ This, he said, was “most shocking and painful” in view of the fact that since formation of the BJP government on May 26 last year, international prices of crude have fallen from $110.55 per barrel to $56 per barrel, a reduction of 50 per cent on May prices.

Posing a host of questions to the government and the BJP, he said, “To hide its complete failure in reviving the economy, boost industrial production, bridge government’s deficit and increase growth rate, BJP government is pre-occupied with feeding its empty coffers by burning a hole in the pocket of the common man and farmers through sustained imposition of excise and customs duty on petro products.” - PTI

‘Boat was carrying suspected terrorists’ Refuting rumours that the vessel was a

Manohar Parrikar

I think they were suspected terrorists as they committed suicide, a normal boat even carrying drugs can surrender

said, ‘I will not be a

Manohar Parrikar

fishing boat or even one that was carrying smugglers with contraband goods, Defence Minister

Defence minister

part of speculation’

S. MOITRA

Our Correspondent NEW DELHI/AHMEDABAD: India on Monday said that a Pakistani boat which was intercepted by the Coast Guard on New Year’s Eve was carrying “suspected terrorists” as they blew up the vessel to escape arrest.

“I think they were suspected terrorists as they committed suicide, a normal boat even carrying drugs can surrender,” Indian Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar told the media in Delhi.

Refuting rumours that the vessel was a fishing boat or even one that was carrying smugglers with contraband goods, he said: “I will not be a part of speculation.”

“The location was not the normal sea route for fishing boats; even the smugglers normally take the busy route so that they can

mingle with boats. This was an isolated location,” the Defence Minister said.

The Indian Defence Ministry had on Friday said in a statement that Coast Guard ships and aircraft had intercepted a “suspect” fishing boat on the night on 31 December near the maritime boundary of the two countries, some 365km from the city of Porbander in the western Indian state of Gujarat.

This followed intelligence that the vessel from “Keti Bunder near Karachi was planning some illicit transaction in Arabian Sea”.

Explosion on boat The crew “set the boat on fire, which resulted in explosion and major fire on the boat” after the Coast Guard ship managed to stop the vessel after nearly an hourlong chase, the statement said, adding four persons had been spotted on the boat, but they — and

the vessel — could not be rescued “due to darkness, bad weather and strong winds”. Pakistan has denied this, saying it had no information suggesting that one of its boats had been destroyed.

Circumstantial evidence However, the Defence Minister stressed that “circumstantial evidence” pointed to the boat having a “suspected terror link”.

Meanwhile, in the wake of recent interception of a Pakistani boat said to be ladened with explosives offGujarat coast, security has been beefed up along the westerncoast of India.

As many as 173 marine commandos have been deployed at 20police stations along the coastline of Gujarat as part ofplans to enhance security cover in the region. “After the incident of Pakistani boats being chased by Coast Guard in Indian waters, we have

ordered 173 of our trained marine commandos to take positions at 20 marine police stations situated on state coastline today,” Deputy Superintendent of Police B. J. Ninama of the Marine Police said.

These commandos have been asked to keep a watch on each and every boat going into the sea and returning ashore.

They have also been directed to inform the Coast Guard as well as security officials of the Gujarat police in case they find any suspicious boat in the sea.

“Commandos have also been asked to check papers of every boat which leaves the nearby harbour or port, or arrives here from the sea.

Besides checking merchandise on the boats, we will also verify people on boats by checking their identity proofs, permits and other licenses to make sure that no unauthorised person manages to land here,” Ninama said. - With inputs from PTI

DRUG MENACE

BJP-ruled states cultivating narcotics, alleges Sukhbir CHANDIGARH: With ally BJP raking up the drug menace issue in a big way, rankling Akali Dal, Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal on Monday sought to turn the tables saying BJP-ruled states were not ready to stop cultivation of narcotics though northern Indian state Punjab was willing to compensate them.

As the relationship with Bharatiya Janata Party becomes increasingly frosty, Sukhbir, who is Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president, expressed unhappiness over “attempts to project Punjab as a major drug producing and consuming state”, remarks which come ahead of BJP Chief Amit Shah’s anti-drug campaign in the state.

Under pressure The SAD is under pressure over the drugs issue, especially after the summoning of Revenue Minister Bikram Singh Majithia by Enforcement Directorate in a drug racket case, with BJP too demanding his ouster.

Sukhbir underscored that there is “no drug production” in Punjab.” Not even a gram of any drug is produced in Punjab and it is either coming from across the border or from neighbouring states,” the deputy chief minister said.

“Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh (both BJP ruled states) allow production of drug related plants,” he said, adding Punjab had a number of times requested these states to stop this in national interest, but to no avail.

Referring to the three dharnas

by SAD on Monday on the drug issue close to the Indo-Pak border in Amritsar, Gurdaspur and Ferozepur districts, Sukhbir said, “Drug menace is a national issue.

In fact we are fighting nation’s battle against the drug menace.

Dharnas are against Pakistan and Afghanistan which are pumping drugs into India using Punjab as a transit point.”

Asked if SAD had raised the issue of production of drugs in Rajasthan and MP at their coordina-

annual budgets, which is sad.

There cannot be two set of laws for two states in the same country.”

Sukhbir said, “we act against drug smugglers and prevent flow of drugs to other states... Despite this Punjab is described as hotbed of drugs.”

The number of those arrested in connection with drug trade and use is much more as compared with other states, including Goa, he said.

ANTI-DRUGS AWARENESS SIT IN: SAD president and Punjab

Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal (at podium) addresses a gathering during an anti-drugs awareness ‘dharna’ at Dana Mandi Attari near Wagah, some 35km from Amritsar, on Monday. - AFP

tion committee meetings with the BJP, Sukhbir said they were told that this generated revenue for the two states.

“We were told by Rajasthan that they annually earn Rs20 billion from this to which we even told

them that Punjab will compensate them for the Rs20 billion loss,” Sukhbir said adding that the two states have licenced Opium Vends.

He mentioned that some states “involved in legal sale of drugs even mention it as “income in their

Conspiracy to defame He said “a serious conspiracy has been hatched to defame Punjab on drug issue” and demanded that there was need to ensure greater vigilance at the international border to stop inflow of drugs into Punjab.

Besides, he said there was need to impose complete ban on cultivation and sale of opium and poppy husk in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and other states.

Sukhbir said that it was unfortunate that Congress Vice Presi-

dent Rahul Gandhi during a visit to Punjab some time back termed 70 per cent youth as drug users.

Terming Punjab as a victim of narco terrorism, Sukhbir said that the political parties should stop “politicising” this issue.

“Instead of supporting the Punjab government (on drug issue), some political parties are politicising the issue,” he said.

BJP Chief Amit Shah is scheduled to start his party’s campaign against drugs from Amritsar on January 22. Sukhbir said every political party has its way of working and said that if invited, he would take part in BJP rallies too.

SAD is holding the sit-in near the international borders“to create mass awareness about drugs” and to also pitch for “greater vigilance along the border with Pakistan” to stop flow of narcotics into the state.

“Those opposing SAD dharnas are indirectly supporting Pak’s narco terror war against India,” he said. - PTI

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INDIA U S ‘ C E R T I F I C AT I O N ’

FLEEING TO SAFETY

India reacts strongly against Washington pat to Islamabad

Villagers move to safer places with their belongings in the view of shelling from the Pakistani side, at Chilyadiya village in Samba district on Monday. The situation along the border in Samba and Kathua has become grim as the Pakistani side resorted to heavy mortar shelling, killing a Border Security Force jawan in Samba sector, after a day of eerie silence. -PTI

Shoe hurled at Bihar CM, youth arrested The man, identified as Amritosh Kumar from Chapra district, however, missed his target as the shoe fell near the chief minister

PATNA: A shoe was on Monday hurled at Bihar Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi by a youth during his weekly public interaction programme ‘Janata Durbar’ at his residence in Patna.

The youth, identified as Amritosh Kumar from Chapra district, however, missed his target as the shoe fell near the chief minister.

Jumping the queue at ‘Janata ke darbar me Mukhya Mantri’ programme, the youth shouted that the state government was dividing the society on caste lines.

When the security personnel on duty caught hold of Kumar, he flung the shoe.

He was then led out of the hall.

DETAINED: Police take into custody Amritosh after he hurled shoe at Bihar Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi during his Janata Ka Darbar programme in Patna on Monday. - PTI

Kumar claimed that he came to the chief minister to complain about his being implicated in a false case by police. Patna Senior Superintendent of Police Jitendra Rana, who was present at the venue, said the youth has been detained and taken to Sachivalya Police Station for interrogation.

Action would be initiated against him after detailed inquiry into the matter, the SSP said.

Manjhi later told reporters that the youth, a postgraduate student,

who was standing behind five or six persons in the queue, turned furious and created a scene before his turn came to talk to the chief minister about his problem.

Probe on “A probe is on into the incident,” Manjhi said. Asked about Kumar alleging that the state government was dividing the society on castes lines, the chief minister said, “I just talk about the poor who hail from SC, ST, extremely backward

1 3 T H P R AVA S I B H A R AT I YA D I VA S

Indian Diaspora conclave in Gujarat from tomorrow AFTAB H. KOLA

Our Correspondent BENGALURU: The thirteenth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, the premier non-resident Indian (NRI) networking event, will be held in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s home state of Gujarat from January 7 to 9.

The event will be hosted along with the Gujarat government’s big investor summit, Vibrant Gujarat. This has come in for strong criticism from the Opposition, which has accused the Centre of showing a preference for Gujarat.

The Union Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs is expecting close to 3,000 Overseas Indian Citizens and People of Indian Origin to attend the conclave.

The inaugural session of Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas will be held on January 7.

On this day, Plenary Sessions on ‘Bharat ko Jano’ (Indian Diaspora youth — inkage with traditions, culture and philosophy)’ ‘Bharat ko Mano’ (Innovations in modern India)’ and ‘Gandhian thought in context of the 21st Century: A youth perspective’ will be held.

The inaugural session will begin on January 8 at 10:30am. That will be followed by the day’s first plenary session on ‘Opportunities in India: Thrust on important initiatives, Namami Ganga, smart cities and urban planning, skill development and tourism development’ will be held. Plenary Session II will be on ‘Session with achievers of Indian Diaspora’ while the plenary session will focus on ‘Soft power in India’s global engagement.’

On January 9, there will be

The prime minister, who made it a point to engage with Indian Diaspora in almost all his foreign visits, will inaugurate the Divas on January 8 and is expected to interact with overseas Indians

a session on ‘Investment opportunities in states’ which will be the chief minister’s session followed by separate parallel state sessions.

Opportunities Pravasi Bharatiya Divas offers opportunities for exploring mutually beneficial trade and business relationships and networking among the community. It also symbolises willingness on the part of the Indian government in the progress and well-being of overseas Indians.

The conferences are to be held back-to-back in the twin cities of Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad respectively, with Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on January 9, and Vibrant Gujarat on January 11, allowing delegates to attend both.

The prime minister, who made it a point to engage with Indian

Diaspora in almost all his foreign visits, will inaugurate the Divas on January 8 and is expected to interact with overseas Indians.

The two-day event will be closely followed by Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors’ Summit, which would be held by the Anandiben Patel government and presided over by the prime minister on January 11.

Chief guest Sushma Swaraj, minister for overseas Indian affairs, disclosed that Guyana’s India-origin President Donald Ramotar would be the chief guest for the PBD 2015.

Ban Ki-moon, secretary general of the United Nations, and, John Kerry, US secretary of state are among the dignitaries who will attend the Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors’ Summit.

Many of the NRI and PIO delegates attending the Divas are also expected to stay back for the Vibrant Gujarat meet.

To connect India with its vast overseas Diaspora and bring their knowledge, expertise and skills on a common platform, the PBD Convention — the flagship event of the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA), Government of India organises such an event every year since 2003.

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is celebrated on January 9 every year to mark the contribution of the Overseas Indian community to the development of India. January 9 was chosen since it was on this day in 1915 that Mahatma Gandhi, the greatest Pravasi, returned to India from South Africa, led India’s freedom struggle and changed the lives of Indians forever.

classes, OBC, minorities and even from forward castes and stress on their welfare.”

Asked whether there was any political link to the incident, Manjhi said he was not aware of the details which would emerge only after the probe.

Asked whether the incident pointed to security lapses, the Patna SSP said, “How can police prevent people from coming to events wearing shoes? Such incidents are accidental,” Rana said.

Manjhi was speaking to the media after his public interaction programme during which a shoe was flung at him by a youth.

“Are Maoists foreigners?... People who have turned Maoists also belong to our society and they could be won back to mainstream not by brandishing guns but by development,” Manjhi, who was flanked by several ministers, told reporters.

Asked if he would invite Maoists for talks, he said, “Why not? Many CMs and even leaders like Loknayak Jayprakash Narayan met them and exhorted them to shun guns and return to the mainstream of society.”

After the incident frisking was intensified at the chief minister’s residence before people were allowed to go inside for the weekly programme. -PTI

NEW DELHI: In a strong reaction to Washington’s pat to Islamabad for acting against terror groups, India on Monday said it does not believe Pakistan was showing “sustained commitment” in fighting such outfits.

India, however, said how Washington chooses to spend US taxpayers’ money “is entirely its prerogative”.

The ‘certification’ by the US makes Pakistan eligible for an aid package under the Kerry-Lugar Bill. The bill has “actions against terror groups” as one of the conditions that Pakistan must fulfil to be eligible for aid from the US. It authorises the release of $1.5 billion per year to Pakistan as non-military aid.

“India does not believe that Pakistan is showing sustained commitment or making significant effort or ceasing support or dismantling bases of operations of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-eMuhammad, the Haqqani network and quite possibly the Al Qaeda,” external affairs ministry

spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said in a statement Monday.

“Also with increasing citings of Punjabi/Urdu speaking elements operating with terrorist groups inside Afghanistan, we now also know that these very groups also pose a significant threat to members of the international community working in Afghanistan including to Indian diplomatic personnel working in the Indian embassy in Kabul and our four consulates.

“But as I said before — how the government of the United States of America decides to spend US taxpayers’ money is entirely its prerogative,” he said.

US Secretary of State John Kerry certified Pakistan’s action against terror outfits LeT and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM).

The certification comes ahead of Kerry’s visit to India for the Vibrant Gujarat Summit this month and to Islamabad later in the month. Obama is to attend the Republic Day parade as the chief guest. - IANS

J& K G OV E R N M E N T F O R M AT I O N

PDP hints at move to join hands with BJP NEW DELHI: After a nearly two-week stalemate over government formation in Indian-administered-Kashmir, BJP on Monday said PDP has shown some “initiative” in joining hands with it and hinted that certain controversial issues could be set aside.

BJP also indicated that a committee of some senior leaders is likely to constituted to hold further talks with the PDP leadership and work out a common programme for good governance.

The party’s core group leaders from the state met BJP president Amit Shah at his residence here and discussed the way forward with the PDP, led by Mufti Mohammad Sayeed.

Sources said the during the meeting that lasted 90 minutes, the J&K party leaders held discussions with Shah on issues like the post of chief minister and the

party’s stand on Article 370 and AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act) in case BJP goes along with PDP in the state. Their reservations on these key issues were also sought by Shah.

“There has been an initiative from PDP’s side. To take this forward, we discussed to hold further discussions on the issues (with PDP). At the moment, there is some forward movement on the issue,” BJP General Secretary Ram Madhav told reporters after the meeting.

“The issue has moved forward.

Keeping in mind the mandate in J&K, we have decided to take forward the talks,” he said.

Madhav later said efforts to form a stable government are being made but added that only “informal discussions” have been held with PDP and “structured talks” will begin later. - PTI

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TU ESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015

PAKISTAN

We are asking them (schools) to maintain registers for guests, install CCTV cameras and carry out security drills. In the event of an emergency, they also have an SOS system to alert the police Ijaz Khan, Police officer

COURT RULINGS

RALLYING AGAINST TALIBAN

Pakistani civil society activists shout slogans against the Taliban during a peace rally in Lahore on Monday. Pakistan announced a national plan of action to deal with terrorism in the wake of December 16 attack on an army-run school in Peshawar which killed 150 people, 134 of them schoolchildren. The national plan of action included establishment of military courts for terror-related cases in order to accelerate trials, and the prime minister has also lifted a six-year moratorium on the death penalty, reinstating it for terrorism-related cases. — AFP

Five death row prisoners acquitted LAHORE: The Supreme Court (SC) and Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday acquitted five death row prisoners, Express News reported.

The Rawalpindi bench of LHC acquitted four prisoners accused of a 2002 suicide attack on an Imambargah in which 11 people were killed and 19 were injured.

They were sentenced to death on December 9, 2009.

Malik Rafiq, the advocate of the four men, had filed an application in the LHC, saying that the trial was unfair and his clients were subjected to injustice.

The high court bench said the death sentences were not based on justice and ordered the release of Habibullah, Fazal Hameed, Tahir Hussain and Naseer Ahmed.

The investigation officer at the time, Raja Saqlain, was also shot dead in an attempt to allegedly weaken the investigation.

A three member bench, headed by SC’s Justice Asif Saeed Khosa, also acquitted one death row prisoner.

The convict, Mazhar Hussain, was given a death sentence by an anti terrorism court (ATC) in a kidnapping-for-ransom case in 2012.

A divisional bench headed by Justice Abdul Sami Khan and Justice Sadiq Ali Khan suspended the death warrant of a prisoner who was scheduled to be hanged on January 14. — Express Tribune

RS10 MILLION EACH

Bounty put on 615 high profile rebels PESHAWAR: The KhyberPakhtunkhwa (KP) government on Monday announced bounty worth Rs770million for as many as 615 high profile militants and proclaimed offenders including Taliban chief Mullah Fazlullah and Lashkar-e-Islam chief Mangal Bagh.

The bounty set for these men is Rs10 million each. Additionally, the government has set similar bounties for Qari Bashir aka Samiullah, highly placed official sources told The Express Tribune.

The list issued by the government on Monday contains names of militants and proclaimed offenders from 22 districts of the province and tribal areas except for those from Karak and Torghar.

Officials revealed that the minimum head money announced by the government was Rs0.5million, while the maximum was Rs10 million.

According to a copy of the official document available with The Express Tribune, the largest concentration of militants and proclaimed offenders is in Peshawar district with a total of 213 names. Swat follows with 59 names, 46 from Kohat and DI Khan each along with 31 from Upper Dir district.

It further reveals names of 26 militants who hail from Mardan district, 25 from Charsadda, 20 each from Nowshera and Buner, 18 belong to Bannu, 15 each from Lakki Marwat, Hangu and Dir Lower. — Express Tribune

Police launch Peshawar schools ‘security audit’ tectors, search lights, etc,” he said, claiming it was not possible for all schools to arrange sniffer dogs or buy walkthrough gates.

The principal said these were expensive accessories for small and medium schools and contended the dropdown barrier was also unnecessary.

“We are really worried about the security situation these days and even more worried are parents, but security arrangements will cost extra money, which will be an additional burden for small and medium schools along with the parents.”

A form with 23 questions is being given to each institute to obtain vital information and they are all required to provide the name of the institute, principal’s name, number of male and female students and the names of their security officers ASSAULT: Pakistani security forces take up positions on a road leading to the Army Public School,

which was attacked by Taliban gunmen in Peshawar, on December 16, 2014. — Reuters file photo

PESHAWAR: Police have launched a ‘security audit’ for schools and colleges of Peshawar district wherein a form with 23 questions is given to each institute to obtain vital information.

The principal of a local private school told The Express Tribune policemen from different stations are visiting schools and collecting data.

“School/College Security Audit.

You are required to provide the

name of the institute, principal’s name, number of male and female students and name of your security officer,” he said, adding that in addition to this, there are 23 questions which need to be answered in the form.

The principal feared police will eventually ask schools to make certain security arrangements in order to obtain a no-objection cer-

tificate (NOC) to keep their institutes open.

“These questions pertain to entry/exit points; presence of three barriers at entry points; is there a dropdown barrier at the main gate or not; are there observation points at important positions; do you have CCTV camera at the front, back, left, right walls; number of guards at the main gate; con-

dition of weapons; experience of guards to use these weapons,” said the principal while sharing the questionnaire’s content. He maintained some of the mentioned security measures were very important but others were worrisome for the administration.

“There are questions about whether your institute has sniffer dogs, walkthrough gates, metal de-

Rapid response force Capital City Police Officer Ijaz Khan said there are 2,027 schools registered with the Peshawar Board alone. Besides these, there are institutes operating under the technical education board and the federal government, among others. He said the data collected from schools was for assessment purposes.

“We have made four rapid response force (RRF) teams for the district. These will act in the event of an emergency and we will provide police guards to those schools located in a cluster. But others will have to make their own security arrangements,” said Khan.

“We are asking them (schools) to maintain registers for guests, install CCTV cameras and carry out security drills.

“In the event of an emergency, they also have an SOS system to alert the police.” — Express Tribune

B ATT L I N G P E S T S

Man wages a dogged battle against the rats of Peshawar PESHAWAR: The people of Pakistan’s northwestern city of Peshawar have lived through countless bombings, shootings and kidnappings in recent years, but now a new peril stalks the streets — huge house rats.

Residents of the city, on the front line of Pakistan’s battle against homegrown Taliban militants, say the rodents have eaten countless chickens, bitten dozens of adults, spread disease and even killed a baby.

But help is at hand in the stocky form of Naseer Ahmad.

Armed with a hoe, wheelbarrow and plastic gloves and accompanied by his three young daughters, the 40-something Ahmad is waging a dogged battle against the rats of Peshawar — and says he’s

killed more than 100,000 in the past 18 months.

“It is my mission and I took it on after I saw my friend taking his wife to hospital because she was bitten by a rat,” Ahmad told AFP while on a mission in the city’s densely populated Zaryab neighbourhood.

Anti-rabies injection “Her medical treatment cost him Rs5,000 ($50) and she had to have an anti-rabies injection.”

The rats are 22 to 30 cm long, almost the same again when you include the tail.

“They are everywhere, in the streets, in markets and in shops,” Ahmad said.

The rat-hunter says they attack at night and escape before dawn,

damaging the fabric of houses and shops, contaminating food and biting women and children.

In past, the rat numbers in the city were limited but monsoon flash floods in the surrounding countryside in recent years have driven them downtown.

Many make their home in an open sewer which flows through the city and come out at night, gnawing with their large teeth and scurrying about in poor neighbourhoods.

As night falls, Ahmad begins his hunt, tracking the rats on foot -- street by street, house by house and shop by shop.

He takes a piece of bread, sprinkles sugar on it and sprays it with a chemical mixture.

“They are actually immune to

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local poison now, so I have to apply my own formula,” Ahmad said.

While Ahmad and his daughters lay the bait, further down the narrow grubby street, resident Gul Zada patches up holes chewed by rats in the floor of his house.

Infant killed Other than structural damage, Zada said rats killed his infant nephew.

“They bit my nephew last year, he was one and a half years old, but we took him to hospital and he died there,” Zada said. — AFP

ON A MISSION: Pakistani resident Naseer Ahmad, right, watches his

daughter as she collects dead rats in a residential area of Peshawar on May 18, 2014. — AFP

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It was the first major

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N .C O M

attack in new year an insurgency against the international intervention in Afghanistan since 2001, claimed responsibility for the blast via a recognised Twitter account. EUPOL was established in 2007 and has 240 international staff and 187 local staff in Afghanistan.

Kabul’s Jalalabad Road, where many military bases, security facilities and foreign compounds are housed, has been hit by regular suicide blasts over the last year.

when US-led Nato forces downgraded from a combat mission to support and training duties helping the Afghan army and police

KABUL: A Taliban suicide bomb hit a European Union police vehicle in Kabul on Monday, killing at least one passer-by but not wounding any passengers, officials said, days after the Nato combat mission ended in Afghanistan.

The blast, which was heard across the city, was the first major attack since new year when USled Nato forces downgraded from a combat mission to support and

SCENE OF SUICIDE ATTACK: Afghan security personnel inspect the scene of a suicide attack on a European Union police vehicle along the Kabul-Jalalabad road in Kabul on Monday. - AFP

training duties helping the Afghan army and police.

Improve police force The European Union Police Mission in Afghanistan (EUPOL) works to improve the country’s ci-

S E A R C H O P E R AT I O N

Naval captain ‘spots’ AirAsia jet’s tail section PANGKALAN BUN/JAKARTA (Indonesia): An Indonesian naval patrol vessel has found what could be the tail of a crashed AirAsia passenger jet, the section where the crucial black box voice and flight data recorders are located, officials said on Monday.

News of the possible breakthrough came as the transport ministry in Jakarta said some officials on duty at the time of the accident will be moved to other roles. It also announced it was tightening rules on pre-flight procedures.

Ships and aircraft scouring the northern Java Sea for debris and bodies from the Airbus A320200 have widened their search to allow for currents eight days after Flight QZ8501 plunged into the water en route from Indonesia’s second-biggest city of Surabaya to Singapore with 162 people on board.

“We found what has a high probability of being the tail of the plane,” Yayan Sofyan, captain of the patrol vessel, told reporters.

He was speaking after his ship returned to the port in Surabaya on Monday, and it was not immediately clear if he was referring to one of the five large objects pinpointed by search vessels over the weekend.

Tropical storms Indonesia’s meteorological agency has said seasonal tropical storms probably contributed to the December 28 crash and the weather has persistently hampered efforts to recover bodies and find the cockpit voice and

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flight data recorders that should explain why the plane crashed into the sea.

The recorders are housed in the tail section of the Airbus, making retrieval of that part of the aircraft crucial.

“I am not saying it’s the tail yet,” the head of Indonesia’s search and rescue agency, Fransiskus Bambang Soelistyo, told a news conference in Jakarta.

“That is suspected. Now we are trying to confirm it.”

The transport ministry said some officials at the country’s airport operator and air traffic control agency who were involved with the AirAsia flight will be moved to other duties while the accident investigation is completed.

The ministry gave no reason.

It also said that, three days after the crash, it had issued a directive making it mandatory for pilots to be briefed in person by an airline official on weather conditions and other operational issues before every flight.

“A circular has been signed by the transport ministry on December 31, stating that pilots must have a face-to-face briefing with a flight operation officer so the briefing officer will know the pilot is in a healthy condition and so on,” said Djoko Murjatmodjo, acting director general of air transportation. — Reuters

PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

Sri Lanka unrest flares before poll COLOMBO: Three supporters of the challenger for Sri Lanka’s presidency were injured by unidentified gunmen on Monday, the latest in a series of violent incidents ahead of election this week.

Over the weekend a volley of shots were fired at a campaign meeting just after Mithripala Sirisena, who has emerged as a serious threat to President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s bid for a third term, had left the stage in his rural heartland home district.

Two Election Commission officers were also attacked in the eastern port district of Trincomalee by backers of Rajapaksa’s party, the Centre for Monitoring Election Violence said.

“Violence is on the rise and it seems to be a well calculated strategy to prevent the opposition campaign,” Keerthi Tennakoon, executive director of the Campaign for Free and Fair Election (CaFFE), told Reuters.

Sirisena left the government to take on the president. Since then more than two dozen Rajapaksa loyalists in the 225-seat parliament have defected.

Many Sri Lankans still back the president but his popularity has waned amid complaints of corruption and nepotism.

Tennakoon said the three Sirisena supporters were shot at before dawn as they prepared a rally stage in Ratnapura. — Reuters

vilian police force, one of the many efforts to try to boost security as international troops withdraw.

“A EUPOL vehicle was involved in a vehicle-borne suicide attack whilst it was travelling east on the Jalalabad Road in Kabul,” the mis-

A1 1

sion said in a statement. “The vehicle’s occupants were uninjured.”

“Six civilians were wounded, one later died of his wounds in hospital,” Kabul police spokesman Hashmat Stanakzai said.

The Taliban, who have waged

‘Extend US involvement’ President Ashraf Ghani and US military leaders have been pushing President Barack Obama to extend US involvement.

“There should be willingness to reexamine (the) deadline,” Ghani told the CBS news channel in an interview broadcast on Sunday.

Ghani has struggled to form an administration since emerging as leader of the “unity government” after an election marred by fraud.

He will mark 100 days in power on Tuesday, but has yet to name any new ministers. — AFP

SIZZLING ACCOUNT

Movie on book

by Hollande’s ex-girlfriend being made PARIS: A movie adaptation of a kiss-and-tell bestselling book that deeply embarrassed French President Francois Hollande is in the works after his journalist ex-girlfriend who wrote it agreed to team up with a producer friend.

The producer, Saida Jawad, told French celebrity magazine Gala in an interview published on Monday that she and Hollande’s ex, Valerie Trierweiler, “are currently developing the movie adaptation of the bestseller and are looking at co-productions with French and international companies”.

The news will be a fresh blow to Hollande, who was embarrassed

by Valerie’s book, Thank You for this Moment (Merci Pour Ce Moment in French), which first came out last September before being translated into 12 languages including English.

The memoir lays bare the turbulent, six-year relationship that Valerie experienced with Hollande, including 18 months by his side after he became president in 2012.

It portrays France’s unpopular Socialist head of state as a callous egotist and — perhaps most damagingly — alleges he once insulted the poor as “toothless”. — AFP

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Subscription: RO70 per year.

A weary Greece now weighs its options

T

he human toll of the economic crisis in Greece has been significant: Rates of hunger, suicide and unemployment have increased sharply, thanks to years of misguided austerity policies. So it is hardly shocking that polls are showing that voters are likely to give control of Parliament to the leftist political party Syriza.

Whether Syriza can make the lives of average Greeks better is an open question. The party and its charismatic leader, Alexis Tsipras, have promised to renegotiate government debt, cut taxes, reverse pension cuts and increase spending on public services.

But to achieve this ambitious agenda, Tsipras will have to persuade leaders of the so-called troika — the European Commission, the European Central Bank and the International Monetary Fund — to ease the terms of the country’s debt.

That will be no easy task. Germany’s finance minister, Wolfgang Schäuble, has already declared that the elections will “change nothing” about the agreements between Greece and the troika. It is not surprising that Schäuble, who has been one of the biggest proponents of austerity in Europe, is taking such an absolutist position before the election, perhaps in an attempt to sway Greeks away from casting votes for Syriza. But insistence on pummelling Greece does nothing to help that country carry out its reforms faster.

The troika leaders need to take a more pragmatic approach — by, for example, postponing debt repayments that come due next year. In a positive sign, leaders of Syriza have said they want to keep Greece in the euro currency zone. A departure from the monetary union would be highly destructive to the country’s weak economy. And while investors do not seem as worried about what a Greek exit from the euro might mean for other countries like Spain, Portugal and Italy as they were a few years ago, they do have some concerns.

More suffering will not stabilize Greece or allow it to pay off its debts. Its unemployment rate was 25.5 per cent in the third quarter of 2014. That is only modestly lower than the average rate of 27.5 per cent in 2013. Deflation is a reality; consumer prices fell 1.2 per cent in November after a 1.8 per cent drop in October. Although the economy is growing again — gross domestic product increased 0.7 per cent in the third quarter from the previous quarter — most people are not seeing improvement in their lives.

There is no question that the austerity policies, like cutting spending and raising taxes, that the troika demanded in exchange for helping Greece and other troubled eurozone countries have prolonged and deepened their economic slump. Another major flaw in the troika’s approach was that it left Greece with much more debt than the country could ever hope to repay, something even the IMF acknowledged last year. - The New York Times News Service

WASHINGTON WATCH

A bad year for the US ended on a bad note JAMES J. ZOGBY

Military matters

O

f course, Pakistan needs its military for a great many things.

It needs to protect the borders and maintain internal security.

But whether we in Pakistan need it to run our judicial system and handle cases involving terrorism is a matter for much debate.

It is unfortunate this debate did not take place before the 21st Amendment Bill setting up military courts was tabled in the National Assembly on January 3.

The Bill will almost certainly be passed by parliament by two-thirds majority, required for a constitutional amendment, given that none of the political parties have spoken out against the dangers of such a measure and the handing over of key judicial powers to the military.

At the All-Parties Conference held on January 2, each and every one of them essentially backed the creation of military courts, altering their previous position on the matter.

The fear is that courts run by military officers could lead to a violation of basic human rights. This often happens when attempts are made to bypass the judicial system, which for all its faults is designed to ensure fair play and run by persons highly trained in the nuances of the law and all that it involves.

This may not be true in the case of the officers who will now preside over the new tribunals to be set up after Article 175 is duly amended to allow for this. There are also of course other risks. Power handed over to the military has not produced positive results in the past.

Of course we face a crisis. As the Chief of Army Staff, General Raheel Sharif, said, the military courts come because of the needs we currently confront in leading the war against militants. This may not be inaccurate. But any misuse of authority or distortion of the judicial system could only make matters worse in the long run and that is not a prospect any of us would like to consider as we continue a battle against terrorism that must be won if we are to save our country and prevent further damage from being inflicted on it. - The Express Tribune

Companies should offer balanced diet in camps This refers to the news story, ‘Oman labour camps should have medical facilities’ (January 5).

While that goes without saying, I also hope the companies provide a balanced diet to the workers living in labour camps. I once gave education on healthy eating in one of the camps somewhere in the interior at the request of a company. This is a sensitive issue and difficult to implement given the limited food choice that those living in the labour camps normally have.

Shabib Al Kalbani Muscat

Modern dress codes are vulgar and irrational The modern obsession with designer products sold at ludicrous

prices beats rational understanding. Some young men with multiple partings in their spiked hair sporting a loud T-shirt with torn jeans in perfect harmony with the pierced eye brows, nose, lip etc. are not sporting any attitude. They are simply epitomizing the fall of man to a level of vulgarity which is worse than bestial. We teenagers proudly sport T-shirts with slogans like “Irreverence justified” and live in a global world glorifying the “greed in good” mantra and attitude above everything else.

Joy Chatterjee Muscat

To defeat terrorism, we need a pragmatic policy The United States and its cronies in the war or terror have evidently failed in the spread of

In the 21 years since the signing of the Oslo Accords, the US has shown itself to be incapable of acting as an ‘honest broker’ in the peace process. Successive administrations have turned a blind eye to Israeli abuses of Palestinian rights

T

he closing weeks of 2014 spelled disaster for US leadership and the rule of law. During the last two weeks of December, the US countered three different efforts designed to affirm Palestinian rights.

It was unfortunate since in doing so the US undercut its stated commitments to uphold the rule of law in international relations and to support a non-violent resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

On December 17, 2014, representatives of 126 countries who had endorsed the Fourth Geneva Convention Relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War (Convention) met at the invitation of the Swiss government and, by consensus, passed a 10 point Declaration reaffirming the applicability of the Convention to the territories occupied by Israel in 1967. After working behind the scenes for months pressuring the Swiss to cancel the session, the US was one of a small number of countries that declined to attend the meeting. The consensus declaration issued at the meeting’s end called on the Occupying Power (Israel) to “fully and effectively respect the Fourth Geneva Convention in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem”. Since the US has, in the past, affirmed the applicability of the Fourth Geneva Convention to the occupied territories and since there is indisputable evidence that in the past four and a half decades Israel has repeatedly violated each of the Convention’s provisions, US effort to block the meeting and then its refusal to attend the session calls into question its commitment to the Convention and reinforces Israel’s sense that it can act, with impunity, against the Palestinians.

Also on December 17, 2014, the Royal Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan submitted an Arab League endorsed resolution to the United Nations Security Council reaffirming the right of Palestinians to selfdetermination, calling for renewed negotiations to conclude with a two state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and “affirming the need to attain, no later than 12 months ...a just, lasting, and comprehensive peaceful solution that brings an end to the Israeli occupation since 1967 and fulfils the vision of two independent, democratic and prosperous states, Israel and a sovereign, contiguous and viable State of Palestine living side by side in peace and security”.

As expected, the US objected to the resolution calling it “deeply unbalanced” and “unconstructive” since it included “deadlines that take no account of Israel’s legitimate security concerns”. The US lobbied the Arabs not to submit the resolution and then pressed other countries to oppose it or to abstain. Then, on December 30th, the US voted against the resolution.

In acting as it did, the US ignored the fact that much of the language of the resolution comes from posi-

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A single day is enough to make us a little larger PAUL KLEE

tions they have previously endorsed. Far from being unbalanced, it included language condemning terrorism against civilians and acts of incitement, and included a call for the implementation of security arrangements to guarantee peace.

What the US also ignored in opposing the resolution was that it was the Palestinian’s frustration with the US-led peace-making effort that prompted their leadership to submit it in the first place. In the 21 years since the signing of the Oslo Accords, the US has shown itself to be incapable of acting as an “honest broker” in the peace process.

Successive Administrations have turned a blind eye to Israeli abuses of Palestinian rights, allowing Israel to have its way with the people whose lives they control — dictating terms and imposing conditions, frustrating not only the chances for peace, but also humiliating the moderate Palestinian leadership with whom they were supposed to be negotiating in good faith. The result is that 21 years after Oslo, all we see is “all process and no peace”, while the number of Israeli settlers in occupied territories has tripled and the Palestinian Authority has become a dependency, lacking authority and legitimacy.

It was in a last ditch effort to assert themselves and demonstrate that their non-violent political approach to a solution could bear fruit, that led the Palestinian leadership to advance this resolution at the UN. By slapping it down, the US reinforced the intransigence of the Israelis and sent Palestinians the wrong message, at the wrong time.

Reeling from this blow, the Palestinian Authority made the decision on December 30th to sign onto the Rome Statute and 19 other international agreements. In response, Israel threatened to withhold tax transfers, it is obliged to send to the PA, and to deny PA officials the right to travel — demonstrating, ever so clearly, their complete control over the lives of the people they hold subject.

The US reaction was predictable, with the State Department calling the move “counterproductive”. As predictable were calls by some members of Congress to suspend US assistance to the Palestinians.

Also of concern is the inability of the US to affirm the very framework of international law it claims to uphold. Far from the Arabs “singling out Israel for criticism”, as Israel’s supporters are quick to charge, US actions end up singling out Israel as the one country that escapes criticism for its illegal behavior. By making this Israel exception, the US undercuts not only its stated commitment to the rule of law, it makes a mockery of the law itself.

The author is the President of Arab American Institute. All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not reflect those of Times of Oman.

counterculture fanned across the world by technological tools.

Recruiting tomorrow’s bombers in camps and secret meeting rooms is passé today. Recruitment is more effectively done on Internet chat rooms and on social media. Therefore, when US President Barack Obama says that the “values the United States will hold and will ultimately defeat the terrorists”, it sounds like a wonderful piece of rhetoric worthy of applause. The ground realities, however, will never ever corroborate Obama’s optimism. The need is to change the policies and address the narratives that inspire individuals to become extremists and terrorists. Killing them at random will not help and terrorism will not subside in this way.

Francis Muscat

Was Arab Spring a cynical conspiracy against Arabs?

We now have the advantage of hindsight in our favour and we now know for certain that the Arab Spring wasn’t a spontaneous revolution. Nor was it a popular outburst fuelled by decades of misrule, autocracy, corruption, concentration of all power and national wealth by a few, or oppression and trampling of human rights. It was never a movement for equality and democracy but was a manufactured reality — made in Washington and Tel Aviv, fanned to become a contagion. Pithily, it was a veritable takeover of an entire region with sinister intentions. Was it then a conspiracy — one of the most cynical of all ever contrived in history?

Venu Seshan Wadi Kabir

Letters, containing not more than 200 words with full name, address and telephone number, may be sent by mail (Times of Oman, P.O. Box 770, P.C. 112, Ruwi), by fax (24813153) or by e-mail (times@omantel.net.om)

T IM ES O F OM A N

T U E S DAY, JAN UARY 6, 2 0 1 5

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PERSPEC IVE Of development, disaster, and the natural vagaries HELEN CLARK

Countries like the Philippines continue to demonstrate the benefits of investing in preparedness, especially when done as part of a larger risk-mitigation effort.

Typhoon Hagupit is just the latest event to showcase this

W

hen Typhoon Hagupit made landfall in the Philippines on December 6, memories of Typhoon Haiyan, which killed more than 6,300 people, were fresh in people’s minds. Some 227,000 families — more than a million people — were evacuated ahead of Hagupit’s arrival, according to the United Nations. The typhoon, one of the strongest of the season, killed some 30 people. All deaths from disasters are a tragedy, but the fact that this number was not much higher attests to the efforts that the Philippines has made to prepare for natural disasters.

As Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme, I have seen first-hand the devastation and heartbreak caused by disasters around the world. Since the beginning of the century, more than a million people have died in storms like Hagupit and other major disasters, such as the 2010 Haitian earthquake, with economic damage totalling nearly $2 trillion.

These losses are tragic, but they are also avoidable. They serve as a reminder that disaster preparedness is not an optional luxury; it is a constant, intensive process that is necessary to save lives, protect infrastructure, and safeguard development.

The argument for investing in disaster preparedness is simple. If countries expect to experience natural hazards, such as violent storm seasons or major earthquakes, then investing time and resources in preparing for shocks will save lives and protect communities from other losses.

Unfortunately, governments often put different priorities ahead of disaster preparation. Other investments often take precedence, and donors have historically funded emergency relief much more readily than pre-disaster preparedness. The measures that are implemented tend to be stand-alone and piecemeal, rather than part of a larger, systematic risk-reduction plan.

That needs to change. Countries like the Philippines continue to demonstrate the benefits of investing in preparedness, especially when done as part of a larger risk-mitigation effort. Typhoon Hagupit is just the latest event to showcase this.

The Philippine government’s quick, effective response saved many lives. But it is important to note that its efforts were not simply an overnight

reaction to the oncoming storm. They were part of a national, comprehensive effort that was long in the making. Officials were wise to acknowledge their country’s vulnerabilities and to commit the resources and capital needed to build resilience.

The Philippines includes preparedness as a core component in its overall strategy for reducing disaster risk. Over the last decade, the country’s authorities have raised awareness, established and strengthened disaster-management institutions, and worked on recovering from past disasters, including Typhoon Haiyan. National and local disaster plans have been improved, standard operating procedures have been developed, and early warning systems have been put in place. The end result has been nothing short of a transformation of how the Philippines reacts to disasters.

The UNDP, and the wider UN system, is supporting governments as they place greater emphasis on disaster-risk reduction, including preparedness, by strengthening their institutional capacity to plan and act when needed. In addition to assisting with emergency relief, it is crucial that the international community help to introduce basic procedures for responding long before disaster strikes.

First responders, for example, need training and tools. Emergency shelters and evacuation routes must be planned and established using risk assessments and actual simulations.

If communities are to be expected to make use of available resources, they need to be involved in the design and development of emergency plans. Risk reduction, including preparedness, is also, first and foremost, rooted in responsive governance.

In March 2015 a new global framework for disaster reduction will be agreed in Sendai, Japan. It is crucial that delegates push for transformational change that enables preparedness and saves lives.

Furthermore, risk reduction needs to be integral to sustainable-development strategies.

The Philippines can serve as an example. The archipelago will always be in the path of tropical storms. There is little officials can do about that. But what they can do — and have done — is emphasize risk reduction and strengthen preparedness, thereby saving lives and building greater resilience. That is a lesson that all of us must learn. - Project Syndicate

Britain is most landlord-friendly nation ALEX HILTON

I

t doesn’t matter who comes into power at the next election — Britain is the most landlord-friendly nation in Europe. This is a huge problem.

What used to be a way for people to make some money from their property has begun to crush an entire generation of young people in the UK. But there is a solution: rent controls.

There are many ways to implement rent controls. But one way would be to cap the cost of rent for tenants, preventing landlords from making unethical profits on housing.

Additionally, by lowering the price landlords have to pay for a property, the heat will be taken out of the housing market, which will allow first time buyers to escape the exploitation of renting.

If you’re unsure about whether this is the right thing to do, then just ask the British public: not only are rent controls necessary and effective, but they’re popular too. A recent poll showed that 59 per cent of people support rent controls and 6.8 per cent of people oppose them.

Surprisingly, this overwhelming support for rent control extends to people of all age groups, to homeowners as well as renters and to the supporters of all political parties — including the Conservatives and Ukip.

Yet mysteriously, none of the main parties support such a measure. If MPs are wondering why people are turned off by mainstream politics it’s because of their quiet consensus to oppose anything that would make a real, positive difference to people’s lives.

Extortionate rental costs might be the norm now, but they haven’t always been. The Private Rented Sector (PRS) used to be a tiny portion of the housing market. Longterm renting was unusual outside of social housing, and the private sector was generally where you stayed while studying or saving up to buy a home.

But since the emergence of buy-to-let mortgages 18 years ago, the PRS has ballooned in size to over 10m people, making the laws around renting no longer fit for purpose.

While landlords rake in huge returns on low-risk investments, tenants are being squeezed for everything they can pay. Renters have no choice; they can’t get into social housing because so little has been built in the last 30 years.

But then there’s rapidly increasing rents and house prices to overcome. Unless you’re privileged enough to have rich and generous parents, this means that saving for a deposit to buy a home is close to impossible.

It’s the simple and depressing fact of renting today: if you need to live near where you work, you’re expected to pay whatever it takes to live comfortably, or pay less and live in awful conditions. The reason for this is simple economics.

Landlords can make so much money — not just in rents but also in capital gain — that it’s worthwhile for them to outbid anyone who wants to buy a home.

Consequently, it’s no coincidence that 80 per cent of the increase in the national housing stock since 2000 is in the hands of landlords.

The unwillingness of the state and the private sector to build new homes means that housing in the UK is a limited resource wherever there are jobs. Not only is this unethical, but it is also fuelling a generational divide. Most people born since the mid-1970s are being fleeced, while many older homeowners are benefiting from the lucrative bubble this creates around their properties.

As a renter facing a lifetime of insecurity and exploitation, it no longer matters to me which flavour of government we have while I’m being exploited.

And most people born since the mid-1970s will be in the same position until one party — any party — decides to champion rent controls. - The Independent

The blacks in the USA are lesser mortals CHARLES M. BLOW

T

he day after Christmas, a shooter terrorised the streets of a Chattanooga, Tenn., neighbourhood. According to the local newspaper, the shooter was “wearing body armour” and “firing multiple shots out her window at people and cars.” One witness told the paper that the shooter was “holding a gun out of the window.”

There’s more: “Officers found two people who said they were at a stop sign when a woman pulled up in a darkcoloured sedan and fired shots into their vehicle, hitting and disabling the radiator. Then more calls reported a woman pointing a firearm at people as she passed them in her car, and that she fired at another vehicle in the same area.”

When police officers came upon the shooter, the shooter led them on a chase. The shooter even pointed the gun at a police officer.

Surely this was not going to end well. We’ve all seen in recent months what came of people who did far less. Surely in this case officers would have been justified in using whatever force they saw fit.

According to the paper, the shooter was “taken into custody without incident or injury.” Who was this shooter anyway? Julia Shields, a 45-year-old white woman.

Take a moment and consider this. Take a long moment. It is a good thing that officers took her in “without incident or injury,” of course, but can we imagine that result being universally the case if a shooter looks different? Would this episode have ended this way if the shooter had been male, or black, or both?

It’s an unanswerable question, but nevertheless one that deserves pondering. Every case is different.

Police officers are human beings making split-second decisions — often informed by fears — about when to use force and the degree of that

People of colour, particularly AfricanAmerican men, have been caught up in a twister of macro aggressions and micro ones. No amount of ignoring can alleviate it

force. But that truth is also the trap. How and why are our fears constructed and activated? The American mind has been poisoned, from this country’s birth, against minority populations.

People of colour, particularly African-American men, have been caught up in a twister of macro aggressions and micro ones. No amount of ignoring can alleviate it; no amount of achieving can ameliorate it.

And in a few seconds, or fractions of a second, before the conscious mind can catch up to the racing heart, decisions are made that can’t be unmade. Dead is forever.

It is no wonder that whites and blacks have such divergent views of treatment by the police. As The Washington Post noted recently about a poll it conducted with ABC News, only about two in 10 blacks “say they are confident that the police treat whites and blacks equally, whether or not they have committed a crime.”

In contrast, six in 10 whites “have confidence that police treat both equally.”

Michael Brown was unarmed. Eric Garner was unarmed on a Staten Island street. Tamir Rice was 12 years old, walking around a Cleveland park and holding a toy gun that uses nonlethal plastic pellets, but he didn’t shoot at anyone. John Crawford was in Ohio holding, but not shooting, an air rifle he had picked up from a store shelf. The police say Antonio Martin had a gun and pointed it at a police officer in Berkeley, Mo., but didn’t fire it.

But none had the privilege of being “arrested without incident or injury.”

They were all black, all killed by police officers.

Brown was shot through the head. Garner was grabbed around the neck in a chokehold, tossed to the ground and held there, even as he pleaded that he couldn’t breathe; it was all caught on video. Rice was shot within two seconds of the police officers’ arrival on the scene.

Crawford, Martin and Reid were also cut down by police bullets.

Maybe one could argue that in some of those cases the officers were within their rights to respond with lethal force. Maybe. But shouldn’t the use of force have equal application? Shouldn’t it be colour and gender blind?

Shouldn’t more people, in equal measures, be taken in and not taken out?

Why weren’t these black men, any of them, the recipients of the same use of force — or lack thereof — as Julia Shields? - The New York Times News Service

Summary of CIA torture report A US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI) report calls into question the legal foundation of the CIA’s interrogation techniques on suspected terrorists following Al Qaeda’s attacks on 9/11 2009 On taking office President Obama signs Executive Order 13491, outlawing torture.

At same time, SSCI chairwoman Sen. Dianne Feinstein initiates investigation into CIA enhanced interrogation Enhanced interrogation Use of simulated drowning known as waterboarding, sleep deprivation, humiliation and other techniques used against Al Qaeda prisoners Origin of programme Two contract psychologists – with no experience of interrogation methods – devise techniques based on Air Force’s Korean War-era Survival Evasion Resistance Escape programme Oversight Report concludes that CIA’s enhanced interrogation programme began in 2001 and was not approved by US Justice Department until August 2002 Distorted intelligence CIA knowingly misled White House, Congress and Justice Department about effectiveness of programme to justify its use

TODAY IN HISTORY 1066 Harold Godwineson is crowned

Brutality Techniques and conditions were far worse than agency told policymakers

crowned King Harold II – King of England.

1540

Waterboarding CIA reportedly waterboarded Al Qaeda member, Abu Zubaydah,83 times, claiming they extracted intelligence that led to hunting down Osama bin Laden. Principal architect of 9/11 attacks, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, was reportedly waterboarded more than 180 times

Henry VIII of England marries his fourth wife, Anne of Cleves. The marriage will last six months.

1904

Japanese railway authorities in Korea refuse to transport Russian troops.

1918

Conventional intelligence According to Feinstein, it was conventional FBI interrogations of Abu Zubaydah – prior to CIA waterboarding – that led to bin Laden’s whereabouts

Germany acknowledges Finland’s independence.

1937

The United States bans the shipment of arms to war-torn Spain.

1946

Ho Chi Minh wins in the Vietnamese elections.

Conclusion CIA’s use of torture damaged US’s global reputation and came with heavy costs, both monetary and non-monetary Graphic News /

Graphics

FROM OUR ARCHIVES 96 PER CENT OF MEDICAL EQUIPMENT Y2K-READY, SAYS MoH

MUSCAT: Ministry of Health has taken all necessary steps and precautionary measures to ensure that health services are not affected by the millennium bug. According to the Undersecretary of Planning Affairs at the Ministry, work on the Y2K issue has been going on since the last two years. A statistical analysis of all medical equipment has been made and classified according to their ability to conform to the Y2K solution.

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CHINA: A woman rides a horse-shaped ice sculpture during the opening day of the 31st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival in the northern city of Harbin, Heilongjiang province, on Monday. The annual

Ice and Snow Festival, organised by China National Tourism Administration and local governments, kicked off on Monday in Harbin, one of the coldest cities in China. – Reuters

LONDON: A zookeeper poses with a Vietnamese giant magnolia

snail during the annual stocktake photocall at London Zoo on Monday. The annual count is required as part of the zoo’s licence. – AFP

EGYPT: Artifacts found around the tomb of Khentakawess III, a GEORGIA: Lida Maisuradze, left, 82, and Zurab Gogidze, 82, celebrate after wining the ‘Super Grandmother and Super Grandfather’

contest in Tbilisi, Georgia, on Monday. Twenty-two participants aged over 70 from all over Georgia competed in the annual contest organised by charity house Catharsis. – Reuters

queen believed to have been the wife of Pharaoh Neferefre who ruled 4,500 years ago, after its discovery by Czech archaeologists in the Old Kingdom necropolis of Abu Sir, Cairo. – AFP

SOUTHERN ENGLAND: The cargo ship Hoegh Osaka lies on its side

after being deliberately run aground on the Bramble Bank in the Solent estuary, near Southampton in southern England on Monday.

The vessel was deliberately run aground on Saturday evening after it began to list, according to its owners Hoegh Autoliners. – Reuters

FRANCE: French general practitioners are gathered after setting fire to medical outfits, on Monday in Lyon, as they demonstrate to protest against an upcoming health bill centred around a change to the system of payments. – AFP

INDIA: A child rides in a remote-operated toy car at the India Gate in New Delhi on Monday. – Reuters

T U E S DAY, JAN UARY 6, 2 0 1 5 We’re really racing against time to try to make sure that we get as much of this contained before the hotter weather and the stronger winds expected later in the week Jay Weatherill, South Australia state Premier

A1 5

WORLD

Bangladesh election anniversary protests turn violent, two killed Two protesters were shot dead and scores were injured in clashes between the ruling party and opposition activists

DHAKA: Bangladesh was on edge on Monday after two protesters were shot dead and scores injured in clashes between the ruling party and opposition activists, a grim marking of the first anniversary of last year’s controversial and violent national polls.

The normally clogged streets of Dhaka, Bangladesh’s capital, were nearly empty on Monday afternoon, as authorities cut off bus, rail and ferry services in to the city and thousands of riot police were deployed in anticipation of more unrest. “Security has been ramped up across the country, including Dhaka, to thwart any untoward incidents,” Dhaka district police chief Habibur Rahman said.

Political uncertainty Bangladesh has been a state of political uncertainty since last January, when Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League came to power for a second consecutive term after a bloody parliamentary election that was boycotted by the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and deemed as flawed by international observers.

On Monday, despite police warnings, opposition leader Begum Khaleda Zia refused to call off

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rallies planned in Dhaka to mark what the BNP has dubbed “democracy killing day”.

Khaleda, a former prime minister herself, has demanded fresh polls under a neutral administration, calling Hasina’s government “undemocratic and illegal”.

The opposition leader says she has been confined to her office in Dhaka’s diplomatic enclave since Saturday, according to BNP’s party officials, with armoured vehicles equipped with water cannons outside.

In protest, Khaleda called for an indefinite nationwide blockade of roads, railways and waterways.

“The government has turned the whole country into a prison,” Khaleda told reporters.

The government denied Khaleda was being held against her will, and says it has deployed extra security at the opposition leader’s office for her protection.

“Who has confined her?” media quoted Hasina as asking at a party

TOKYO NEW YEAR AUCTION

VIOLENT CLASHES: A Bangladeshi policeman, left, looks on as government party activists, right, wield sticks against activists of the

Bangladesh National Party (BNP), centre, during a clash in Dhaka on Monday. – AFP

meeting on Sunday. “She can go to her residence any time.”

Hasina and Khaleda, both related to former national leaders, have nursed a long and bitter rival-

ry, and have dominated politics in Bangladesh for more than two decades. Police said two protesters in their 20s were killed in Natore district during clashes between rul-

ing and opposition party activists.

The opposition said the victims were BNP activists, though police have not confirmed their identity.

BNP officials said hundreds

of their supporters had been detained since Saturday. Scores of protesters have been injured in clashes in Dhaka, the port city of Chittagong and elsewhere. — Reuters

B E F O R E W E AT H E R W O R S E N S

Australia races to control major blaze KERSBROOK (AUSTRALIA): Firefighters raced on Monday to contain a major blaze before the forecast return of strong winds and a heatwave, following the loss of 26 homes in the worst bushfire conditions in South Australia for three decades.

The state fire service said properties were still at risk after nearly 13,000 hectares (32,124 acres) of scrub and farmland were razed in the Mount Lofty Ranges, east of Adelaide, over the weekend.

South Australia state Premier Jay Weatherill said that with cooler weather and calmer winds it was now a race against time before dangerous conditions expected Wednesday in the Adelaide Hills.

“There is still clear danger,” he

PRIZED WIN: President of the sushi restaurant chain Sushi Zan-

mai, Kiyoshi Kimura removes the fin of a blue fin tuna outside his restaurant at the outer Tsukiji market, in Tokyo on Monday. – Reuters

Giant bluefin tuna fetches $37,480 TOKYO: A giant bluefin tuna sold for more than $37,000 in the first auction of the year at a Tokyo fish market on Monday, as Japan faces growing pressure to cut back on consumption of the threatened fish.

The 180.4-kilogramme (380 pound) tuna, caught off Japan’s northern region of Aomori, fetched a winning bid of $37,480 (4.51 million yen), said an official at the Tsukiji fish market.

The bid marked the second consecutive decline at the annual new year sales, after a record 155.4 million yen was paid in 2013 -- driven by a bidding war led by a Hong Kong restaurant chain -- for a slightly larger fish of similar quality.

Surprised Monday’s winner, Kiyoshi Kimura, president of the firm behind the popular Sushi-Zanmai restaurant chain, said he was “surprised to win the bid at such a low price”.

“But it’s the best quality,” he told local media.

“I’m satisfied with buying the

best one -- it has a good shape and great fat.”

The price decline was due to a “lack of rival bids” and a higher number of bluefins in the waters off Japan’s northern coast, a prime spot for tuna fishing, reports said.

Bluefin is usually the most expensive fish available at Tsukiji, the biggest fish and wholesale seafood market in the world.

A piece of “otoro”, or the fish’s fatty underbelly, can cost up to several thousand yen at high-end Tokyo restaurants.

The growing popularity of Japanese sushi worldwide has also stoked demand.

The auction came as Japan, the world’s largest bluefin tuna consumer, faces growing calls for a trade ban on the fish, which environmentalists warn is on its way to extinction.

In November, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature updated its “red list” of threatened species, warning that surging global demand for the fish was placing “unsustainable pressure” on the species. — AFP

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told reporters as water bombing aircraft dropped hundred of thousands of litres of fire retardant on the blaze that has a 238-kilometre (148-mile) perimeter.

“This is by no means over,” Weatherill added.

“We’re really racing against time to try to make sure that we get as much of this contained before the hotter weather and the stronger winds expected later in the week.”

He confirmed the loss of 26 homes and 41 outbuildings.

The latest figures were reported

after checks on just 20 of 59 affected areas.

At least 29 people, mostly firefighters, have suffered minor injuries from the fire, police said.

Worst-hit villages In Kersbrook, one of the worsthit villages in the Adelaide Hills, resident Dave Miller surveyed the scene of destruction where his home once stood.

The 60-year-old told the Australian Associated Press he had very little left. “No house, not very much of anything, mate.”

“I’ve got a diesel tank still standing with 4,000 litres of diesel in but I’ve got nothing else,” he said.

But like most residents Miller vowed to rebuild and has no inten-

tion of leaving, despite the annual bushfire menace.

“I’ll stay up here. I’ll get a caravan or something to live in and just keep going.”

Temperatures were forecast to soar again above 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit) on Wednesday after highs of well over 40C at the weekend in the Adelaide Hills, which has a population of 40,000 and is dotted with scenic villages known for farming produce and wineries.

Country Fire Service chief Greg Nettleton said the winds would be crucial to the next stage of the operation. “At the moment I think they’re predicting (winds of ) about 35 kilometres per hour (21 miles per hour). — AFP

B

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

Oman Fiber’s OMR13m plant to go on stream by year-end and additional capital injected by stakeholders helped the company to generate the required fund for the massive expansion.

Al Barashdy said the company will sell 35 per cent of its output in the domestic market, with the remaining 65 per cent for export markets. The firm’s export markets include Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Arab countries, Iran, central Asia and Eastern Europe.

Apart from fibre optic cable plant, the facilities coming up at Rusayl include a headquarter building and a warehouse.

A. E. JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman Fiber Optic on Monday said that its state-ofthe-art plant to manufacture fibre optic cables will be ready for commissioning by November this year.

The pioneer fibre optic cable manufacturer is investing OMR13 million for building two plants — one with an installed capacity to produce 14,000-18,000 kilometres of cable and another for the manufacture of 1.6 million fibre kilometres per annum — and other

facilities, Mohammed Al Barashdy, chief executive officer of Oman Fiber Optic, told journalists.

The cable plant was commissioned in March 2014, while the fiber optic cable plant will be ready in November, he added, while addressing the media to launch the company’s new logo.

Rebuilding plants Oman Fiber Optic chief noted that the company used to produce 350,000 fibre kilometres per annum before a massive fire destroyed the entire plant. “After

IMPROVING CONNECTIVITY: Mohammed Al Barashdy, chief execu-

tive officer of Oman Fiber Optic, said that the cable plant was commissioned in March 2014, while the fibre optic cable plant will be ready in November. - TALIB AL WOHAIBI/Times of Oman

the fire, we have decided to build a completely new plant. We have a technological tie-up with Sumitomo. It took ten months for the company to build the cable plant.”

Apart from fibre optic cable plant, the facilities coming up at Rusayl include a headquarter building and a warehouse.

Proceeds from insurance claim

Telecom, oil and gas Oman Fiber Optic caters to the needs of various sectors, including telecommunication, oil and gas, government utility and other related projects. Oman Fiber Optic’s sales revenue touched OMR26.95 million in 2013, from OMR5.29 million in 2007.

Apart from manufacturing fiber optic cable, the company has other divisions like telecommunication solutions division to cater to the specific needs of customers.

Referring to Oman Broadband Company’s initiative to provide fibre optic cable connection to homes, he said the company is involved in the project over the last three years and have provided over 40,000 home connections in several residential areas, including the Wave, Muscat Hills and Shatti Al Qurum.

The launch of the company’s new commercial identity shows its new strategy and aspirations.

Al Barashdy said that the company’s new logo consists of the initial letters of ‘Oman Fiber Optic.’

The new logo also has red, green and blue colours. The overall Omanisation within the company is around 47 per cent.

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B2

TU ESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015

MARKET SEND US YOUR VIEWS AND COMMENTS www.facebook.com/timesofoman

Crude extends slump Oil fell for a third

Saudi offers discount to Asia

day, extending its drop from the lowest close since 2009, over record supplies from Iraq and Russia

LONDON: Oil fell for a third day, extending its drop from the lowest close since 2009, as record supplies from Iraq and Russia bolstered speculation a global glut that’s driven crude into a bear market may persist this year.

Futures slid as much as 2.1 per cent in London, after losing 5.1 per cent last week. Iraq, the secondlargest producer in the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting

SINGAPORE: Saudi Arabia will probably offer smaller discounts to ship crude to Asia amid speculation demand will increase after benchmark prices dropped almost 50 per cent last year.

The world’s biggest oil exporter will announce February official selling prices to buyers in Asia in coming days, after offering its Arab Light grade at the biggest discount in at least 14 years the previous month. Opec’s

Countries (Opec), plans to boost crude exports this month, the Oil Ministry said. Russia’s output rose to a post-Soviet record of 10.667 million barrels a day in December, according to preliminary

largest producer may narrow the discount, according to 12 of 15 traders and refiners in a survey. Three respondents forecast price differentials to be unchanged.

Saudi Arabia led the Opec in maintaining production quotas while offering deeper discounts for its own cargoes, prompting speculation that it’s prepared to let prices fall to defend market share against more expensive US shale supply. - Bloomberg News

data e-mailed by CDU-TEK, part of the Energy Ministry.

Brent slumped 48 per cent last year, the most since the 2008 financial crisis, as Opec resisted calls to cut output amid a battle

with United States shale producers for market share. The 12-member group, which supplies about 40 per cent of the world’s crude, pumped above its target for a seventh straight month in December, according to a survey.

“Iraq’s crude production is one of the contributors to the glut we’ve been seeing,” Hong Sung Ki, a commodities analyst at Samsung Futures in Seoul, said by phone. “The glut is expected to continue if demand fails to catch up with supply.”

Iraqi supplies WTI for February delivery dropped as much as $1.29, or 2.5 per cent, to $51.40 a barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. It slid 58 cents to $52.69 on January 2, the lowest close since April 2009. The volume of all futures traded was about 89 per cent more than the 100-day average.

Iraq plans to expand crude exports to 3.3 million barrels a day this month, Asim Jihad, a spokesman, said. - Bloomberg News

ELECTRONICS SHOW

GREEN TECHNOLOGY: An XYZ printing Green Box at the 2015

International Consumer Electronics Show on January 4, in Las Vegas, United States. The product grows organic lettuces and herbs in about three weeks. — AFP

Global technology spending sputters amid slowdown LAS VEGAS: The outlook for global technology spending is uncertain after nearly flat growth in the past year, with turbulent economic conditions making a forecast difficult, an industry gathering has been told.

At the media preview for the massive International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, United States, data presented showed just one per cent growth in 2014 to bring spending on technology to $1.024 trillion.

But analyst Steve Koenig of the Consumer Electronics Association, which organises the event, said economic conditions around the world forced the group to defer its forecast for 2015.

“We have a very mixed spending picture,” Koenig said.

The market is being driven by strong demand for new products like tablets and smartphones in emerging economies in Asia, and by modest economic growth in North America. The picture is clouded by economic stagnation

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in the eurozone and Japan and ‘weak expectations’ in big emerging economies such as Brazil, Koenig explained. Russia, another large emerging economy, is being hit by economic sanctions that could dent tech spending.

Personal New technology is getting more personal. So personal, it is moving to connect and analyse our movements, our health, our brains and our everyday devices. Welcome to the so-called Internet of Me. One of the major themes at show is connecting thousands of objects that people use each day — clothing, cars, light bulbs and home appliances.

But the challenge facing developers is making that information useful. - AFP

T U E S DAY, JAN UARY 6, 2 0 1 5

B3

MARKET AUTOMOTIVE

China dealers to get $820m from BMW

to cover up losses BEIJING: Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) agreed to pay 5.1 billion yuan ($820 million) to its distributors in China to help cover their losses after the retailers stopped ordering cars from manufacturer, a dealer’s group said.

The subsidies are the largest by an automaker to its retailers in China and will be paid by the end of February, said Song Tao, a deputy secretary general of the China Automobile Dealers Association, which represented the BMW distributors in the negotiations. The dealers are still in talks with the Munich-based carmaker over this year’s sales targets, he said.

Auto dealers have complained of meeting unrealistic sales projections in order to qualify for yearend bonuses as foreign automakers expand their manufacturing capacity and number of distributors to chase market share. The BMW payout may increase pressure on other automakers to extend similar support to their retailers, including Toyota, whose dealers are threatening to quit one the sales network of its Chinese ventures because of mounting losses.

“This is an unusual move by automaker to give funding of such big scale,” said Han Weiqi, an analyst with CSC International Holdings.

“But in the long-term, a smooth relationship with dealers is in carmaker’s best interests and they have to meet dealers half way.”

Slowing sales growth means a ‘new normal’ is emerging in the country’s auto market, BMW said in an e-mailed statement. The carmaker and dealer group “reached

Corporates targeting sukuk amid oil shock Corporates in GCC will be encouraged to tap the market as bank liquidity and credit conditions

consensus on the structure of optimised business measures and financial allocation for the dealers,” according to the e-mail.

Vehicle quotas Automakers are increasing the number of factories even as more cities in China impose purchase restrictions on vehicles to control congestion and air pollution.

Shenzhen, the large metropolis bordering Hong Kong in southern China, on December 29 followed other Chinese cities including Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou in setting quotas on new vehicles.

Unsold stock on dealer lots rose to the highest level in November since August 2013, according to the association’s data.

Baoxin Auto, the dealership group that accounted for almost 10 per cent of BMW’s sales in China in 2013, gained as much 4.5 per cent.

BMW’s payout increases pressure on other automakers facing similar demands by their dealerships for financial support. Ten per cent of dealers for one of Toyota’s China ventures are poised to drop out of the network because they can’t make money. - Bloomberg News

deteriorate amid declining oil prices, said Moody’s Investors Service

DUBAI: The busiest year on record for sovereign Islamic bond sales is poised to be eclipsed as a revival in corporate issuance takes hold in 2015.

Companies in the UK and Hong Kong may be among those selling sukuk this year as they follow debut issues from their governments, according to National Bank of Abu Dhabi, the biggest Middle Eastern underwriter of Islamic bonds in 2014.

Government borrowers Corporates in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) will be encouraged to tap the market as bank liquidity and credit conditions deteriorate amid declining oil prices, Moody’s Investors Service said last month.

Islamic bond investors have

SMART TECHNOLOGY

Samsung takes challenger to TVs as smartphone flops SEOUL: Samsung’s challenger to Google software is moving from phones to big-screen TVs as the South Korean company tries to capitalise on the burgeoning interest in smart homes.

The world’s biggest maker of TVs will unveil the first sets powered by Tizen software at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) this week, and all the Web-connected models it sells this year will run the operating system. The company also may demonstrate at CES how the TVs communicate with its washing machines, refrigerators and vacuum cleaners.

The controlling Lee family is trying to reinvent Samsung as a purveyor of Internet-connected appliances to grab share of a market that may be worth $7.1 trillion by 2020. Samsung wants to generate revenue from Tizen applications and services just as Apple and Google do from their operating systems, and the Su-

TIZEN SOFTWARE

Samsung will unveil first TV sets powered by Tizen software. All the Web-connected models it sells this year will run the operating system.

It may show how TVs communicate with its washing machines, refrigerators and vacuum cleaners at the CES

won-based company is emphasizing TVs and consumer electronics after falling a year behind schedule on a Tizen-based phone.

“In smartphones, there’s no chance that Samsung’s Tizen can edge out the two dominant operating systems,” said Claire Kim, a Seoul-based analyst at Daishin Securities. “But in TVs, Samsung may have a chance.”

Samsung’s rise to number one in global phone sales depended on Google’s Android. Nearly all of the 243 million smartphones Samsung shipped through September 30 ran the software.

Phone supremacy Samsung faces the strongest challenge to its phone supremacy after posting the smallest quarterly earnings in more than two years.

Operating profit at the mobilephone unit, the firm’s biggest cash generator, slumped 74 per cent in the September quarter and sales fell about 33 per cent.

That’s prompting the company to look for new sources of revenue. Tizen emerged after Samsung joined Intel and NTT Docomo, among others, to develop an alternative to Android and build its software capabilities.

Helped by Samsung, LG and dozens of other producers, Android runs about 84 per cent of smartphones. - Bloomberg News

NEW OPTION: Companies in the UK and Hong Kong may be among those selling sukuk this year as

they follow debut issues from their governments, according to National Bank of Abu Dhabi, the biggest Middle Eastern underwriter of Islamic bonds in 2014. – Bloomberg News

been starved of options as established corporate issuers, led by those in the six-nation GCC, which accounts for about a third of all global sales, opted for bank loans over public debt. That’s in contrast to sovereign borrowers, which raced to tap an industry whose assets may climb to $2.6 trillion by 2017, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Government borrowers sold 215 Sharia bonds last year as the number of company sales dropped to the lowest since 2004.

“I expect 2015 to witness a further maturing of the market as sukuk becomes increasingly relevant to global issuers,” Andy Cairns, global head of debt origination and distribution at NBAD, the United Arab Emirates’ biggest bank, said by phone from Abu

Dhabi on December 29. Governments including in the UK and Hong Kong sold sukuk “to establish proof of concept for Islamic issuance, achieve investor diversification and encourage followon supply,” he said.

Forced out In Asia, Malaysia Marine and Heavy Engineering has approval from the country’s securities commission for a 1 billion ringgit ($284 million) Islamic bond.

In the Middle East and Africa, Al Baraka Banking Group plans to raise 300 million rand ($26 million) in South Africa, according to the chief executive officer, and Turkey’s Dogus Varlik Kiralama has approval from the Capital Markets Board to sell as much as $370 million in sukuk.

“The tightening of bank liquidity and credit conditions in the GCC may force more of the larger, quality corporates out to the public markets,” Khalid Howladar, the Dubai-based global head of Islamic finance at Moody’s, said.

The UK became the first nonMuslim sovereign government to issue sukuk when it sold a £200 million bond in June. In September, Luxembourg sold €200 million of five-year Islamic bonds, Hong Kong raised $1 billion and South Africa tapped the market for $500 million. - Bloomberg News

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B4

TU ESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015

MARKET MSM index ends lower

OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ....................................... 6,353.50 ............... 6,311.77 .................... 6,311.77 ...................6,353.50................ -41.73 .................. -0.66 Financial Index ......................................7,727.76 ............... 7,616.21 ....................7,616.22 ....................7,727.40...............-111.18 .................. -1.44 Industrial Index ....................................8,418.54 .............. 8,355.80 ................... 8,358.66 ................... 8,418.54................-59.88 ...................-0.71 Services Index .......................................3,481.47 ...............3,455.73 ....................3,459.79 ...................3,479.09................ -19.30 .................. -0.55 MSM SHARIAH INDEX.......................966.14 ..................964.63 ...................... 964.63 ...................... 966.02...................-1.39 .................. -0.14 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 11,174,114 ................... 4,139,985 .....................536 ...............14,523,984,813 .................. 3 .....................20 .................... 14 .........................37

The top gainer was United Power, up by 7.17 per cent, while Al Madina Investments,

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR MONDAY, JANUARY 5

down by 9.33 per cent, lost the most ISIN ..................................................SECURITY NAME ...............................................................................................VOLUME ..............TURNOVER...................TRADES ...........OPEN PRICE............. HIGH....................LOW...............CLOSE PR. ..........PREV. CLOSE..........DIFF (RO) .................DIFF %......................LAST PR...............LAST BID.....................LAST OFFER .................MARKET CAP ........PAR VALUE

MUSCAT: Amid weak trading activity, the MSM 30 index ended on a negative note at 6,311.77 points, down by 0.66 per cent.

MSM Shariah index also declined by 0.14 per cent at 964.63 points.

Dhofar International Development & Investment Company was the most active in terms of volume as well as turnover. The top gainer was United Power, up by 7.17 per cent, while Al Madina Investments, down by 9.33 per cent, lost the most.

As many as 536 trades were executed in the session generating a turnover of OMR4.1 million with more than 11.1 million shares changing hands. Out of 37 traded stocks, three advanced, 20 declined and 14 remained unchanged. Arab and GCC investors were net buyers to the tune of OMR248,000 followed by Omani investors at OMR52,000.

Foreign investors, who were net sellers, sold shares amounting to OMR300,000.

Financial Index down by 1.44 per cent to close at 7,616.22 points. Al Madina Investments, DBIH, Oman & Emirates Holding, Al Sharqia Investments and Gulf Investment Services decreased by 9.33 per cent, 9.23 per cent, 8.87 per cent, 7.46 per cent and 6.29 per cent respectively.

Industrial Index ended today’s session at 8,358.66 points, down by 0.71 per cent. Gulf International Chemicals was the only gainer in the sector, up by 1.32 per cent. Galfar Engineering, Al Maha Ceramics, Al Hassan Engineering, Oman Fisheries and National Aluminium Products decreased by 5.29 per cent, 4.60 per cent, 2.97 per cent, 2.86 per cent and 2.47 per cent respectively.

Services Sector Index declined by 0.55 per cent to close at 3,459.79 points. United Power and Al Batinah Power increased by 7.17 per cent and 1.18 per cent respectively. Renaissance Ser-

vices, Sembcorp Salalah, OIFC and Al Suwadi Power fell 2.50 per cent, 2.05 per cent, 1.95 per cent and 0.58 per cent respectively.

Gulf stocks tumble The DFM General Index tumbled 3.4 per cent and Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index lost 3 per cent. Nigeria’s gauge dropped 2.1 per cent. South Africa’s Sasol slid 4.2 per cent. Petroleo Brasiliero tumbled 4.7 per cent.

REGULAR MARKET .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000001822............UNITED POWER .................................................................682 .................. 968........................1 ............1.420 ........... 1.420 ...........1.420........... 1.420 ............. 1.325.............0.095 ..............7.170.................1.420..............1.420...................0.000 ...............2,840,000........1.000 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS ..............53,300 ...............8,222........................6 ............0.152 ........... 0.155 ...........0.152 ........... 0.154 ............. 0.152............ 0.002..............1.316.................0.155 ..............0.154...................0.158................3,234,000........0.100 OM0000001418 ............RAYSUT CEMENT .......................................................... 1,000 ............... 1,650........................1 ............1.650 ........... 1.650 ...........1.650 ............1.670 ............. 1.670............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.650 .............. 1.630...................1.700 ............. 334,000,000 .....0.100 OM0000001509............DHOFAR INT.DEV.AND INV. HOLD.................... 4,327,098 ...2,163,549........................1 ........... 0.500 ...........0.500 ...........0.500........... 0.530 .............0.530 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.500............. 0.000...................0.000 .............116,600,000......0.100 OM0000001533 ............OMINVEST .................................................................... 1,834,060 ......744,628........................1 ........... 0.406 ...........0.406 ...........0.406............0.416 ............. 0.416............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.406............. 0.400...................0.420 .............140,085,088......0.100 OM0000001897 ............MAJAN COLLEGE ..............................................................316 ...................174........................2 ........... 0.550 ...........0.550 ...........0.550........... 0.500 .............0.500 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.550..............0.500...................0.550...............15,000,000.......0.100 OM0000002168............AL ANWAR CERAMIC TILES ................................ 34,000 .............17,068........................8 ........... 0.502 ...........0.502 ...........0.502........... 0.502 .............0.502 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.502..............0.454...................0.502 .............123,916,057 ......0.100 OM0000002374............UNITED FINANCE ..................................................... 347,987 ............47,326........................1 ............0.136 ........... 0.136 ...........0.136 ............0.136 ............. 0.136............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.136 ...............0.131...................0.000 .............. 37,401,798 .......0.100 OM0000002572 ...........OMAN OIL MARKETING ..........................................10,000 ............22,400........................1 ........... 2.240...........2.240 ...........2.240 .......... 2.240 .............2.240 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ............... 2.240 ............ 0.000...................2.260 .............137,256,000......0.100 OM0000002614............ONIC. HOLDING .......................................................... 230,656 ............77,500..................... 38 ........... 0.336 ...........0.336 ...........0.336........... 0.336 .............0.336 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.336..............0.332...................0.336...............58,270,212 .......0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR....................................................................5,000 ...............1,090........................1 ............0.218 ........... 0.218 ...........0.218........... 0.218 .............0.218............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.218 ..............0.216...................0.223 ............ 249,392,000 .....0.100 OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO.........................................................................15,000 ...............9,420........................2 ........... 0.628 ...........0.628 ...........0.628........... 0.628 .............0.628 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.628.............. 0.612...................0.628..............408,792,976 .....0.100

Emerging stocks slip Emerging-market stocks fell for a third day and currencies slid as speculation that Greece may drop the euro reduced demand for riskier assets. A gauge of 20 developing- nation currencies slid 0.5 per cent to a 12-year low.

Sasol, world’s biggest maker of motor fuel-from-coal, dropped the most in two weeks and Petroleo Brasileiro paced a slump in Brazilian stocks. Dubai’s DFM General Index led losses in the Gulf region as Brent crude retreated to the lowest level since May 2009.

The rouble tumbled 5.4 per cent. Turkish bonds and stocks climbed after a report showed the nation’s inflation rate dropped more than economists forecast.

The MSCI Emerging Market Index slid 1 percent to 944.06 in London. While Greece prepared for elections this month that Prime Minister Antonis Samaras said will determine the country’s euro membership, ‘Der Spiegel’ magazine reported that German Chancellor Angela Merkel is ready to accept a Greek exit.

Emerging-market stocks posted their first back-to-back annual decline in 12 years in 2014 as oil retreated to a bear market and prospects for rising U.S. interest rates curbed the appeal of higheryielding assets. The rouble weakened in its first official trading of 2015. - United Securities/Bloomberg News

OM0000004248 ...........SMN POWER HOLDING ...............................................9,821 ...............6,482........................1 ........... 0.660 ...........0.660 ...........0.660........... 0.660 .............0.660 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.660..............0.660...................0.000 ............. 131,759,496 ......0.100 OM0000003661 ............VOLTAMP ENERGY .....................................................69,283 ............ 25,609......................11 ........... 0.370 ...........0.370 ...........0.360........... 0.370 .............0.372 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.538 ...............0.370..............0.370...................0.408 ..............22,385,000 ......0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 348,831 ........... 69,945..................... 23 ............0.210 ........... 0.210 ...........0.200 .......... 0.201 .............0.205 ...........-0.004 ............-1.951 ................0.202 .............0.201...................0.205 ............. 40,200,000 ......0.100 OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 948,242.........538,025..................... 72 ........... 0.580 ...........0.580 ...........0.562........... 0.568 .............0.582 ...........-0.014 ........... -2.405 ...............0.562..............0.562...................0.564.............1,239,766,891 ....0.100 OM0000001319 ............NATIONAL ALUMINIUM PRODUCTS ...............35,500 .............11,240........................2 ........... 0.320 ...........0.320 ...........0.308............0.316 .............0.324 ...........-0.008 ........... -2.469 ...............0.308..............0.308...................0.320 ..............10,608,578 .......0.100 OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES .......................................21,400 .............10,010........................5 ............0.478 ........... 0.478 ...........0.460........... 0.468 .............0.480 ...........-0.012 ........... -2.500 ...............0.470..............0.460...................0.470..............132,020,204 .....0.100 OM0000001087............OMAN UNITED INSURANCE .................................10,000 .............. 2,800........................3 ........... 0.280...........0.280 ...........0.280 .......... 0.280 .............0.289 ...........-0.009 ............-3.114................0.280..............0.273...................0.280 ..............28,000,000 ......0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 259,437 ............47,915..................... 43 ............0.188 ........... 0.188 ...........0.182............0.185 ............. 0.193............-0.008 ........... -4.145 ...............0.186 ..............0.184...................0.186...............24,142,500.......0.100 OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. .................. 538,645 ............86,521..................... 49 ............0.170 ........... 0.170 ...........0.155 ............0.161 ............. 0.170............-0.009 ........... -5.294 ...............0.160..............0.160...................0.163...............42,442,621.......0.100 OM0000002820 ...........GULF INVESTMENT SERVICES ...........................91,920 ............ 12,300......................16 ............0.137 ........... 0.138 ...........0.130........... 0.134 ............. 0.143............-0.009 ........... -6.294 ...............0.135 .............. 0.135...................0.139................ 7,884,991 ........0.100 OM0000002440 ...........AL SHARQIA INVESTMENT HOLDING ........... 141,200 ............17,528......................17 ............0.126 ........... 0.127 ...........0.121 ........... 0.124 .............0.134............-0.010 ............-7.463................0.127 .............. 0.125...................0.127............... 10,728,480 .......0.100 OM0000001681 ............OMAN AND EMIRATES INV. HOLDING........... 194,716 ............22,044..................... 28 ............0.120 ........... 0.120 ...........0.112 ............0.113 .............0.124 ...........-0.011 ............-8.871................0.114 .............. 0.114................... 0.115 ................13,771,875 .......0.100 OM0000001962............AL MADINA INVESTMENT .................................... 94,820 ...............6,458........................7 ........... 0.069 ...........0.069 ...........0.068........... 0.068 .............0.075 ...........-0.007 ........... -9.333 ...............0.068............. 0.000...................0.072...............14,086,294.......0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 9,622,914........3,950,872 ..............340 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......25..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

PARALLEL MARKET .................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000004925 ...........AL BATINAH POWER................................................ 197,609 .............33,697..................... 34 ............0.169 ........... 0.171............0.169 ............0.171 ............. 0.169............ 0.002..............1.183.................0.170 ..............0.170...................0.175 .............. 115,405,751 ......0.100 OM0000004511 ............ALIZZ ISLAMIC BANK..................................................... 500 .....................48........................2 ........... 0.095 ........... 0.095 ...........0.095........... 0.094 .............0.094 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.095..............0.090...................0.095...............94,000,000 ......0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER .................................................. 196,851 ............ 33,642..................... 34 ............0.171 ........... 0.171............0.170 ............0.171 ............. 0.172............-0.001 ........... -0.581................0.171 ...............0.171...................0.173 ..............122,163,484......0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 703,755............ 55,592.....................40 ........... 0.080 ...........0.080 ...........0.078........... 0.079 .............0.080 ...........-0.001 ........... -1.250 ...............0.078..............0.078...................0.079..............118,500,000......0.100 OM0000001855 ............MAJAN GLASS ...............................................................10,932 ............... 2,671........................2 ........... 0.248 ...........0.248 ...........0.240 .......... 0.244 .............0.248 ...........-0.004 ............-1.613 ................0.240 ............ 0.240...................0.260 .............. 10,253,685 .......0.100 OM0000004735 ...........SEMBCORP SALALAH..................................................2,962 ...............6,368........................2 ............2.150 ........... 2.150 ...........2.150........... 2.150 ............. 2.195............-0.045 ........... -2.050 ...............2.150 ..............2.160...................2.220 ............ 205,232,969 .....1.000 OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES .......................................................77,600 ...............5,262........................7 ........... 0.068 ...........0.070 ...........0.066........... 0.068 .............0.070 ...........-0.002 ........... -2.857 ...............0.070..............0.070...................0.071................8,500,000........0.100 OM0000002564 ...........AL HASSAN ENGINEERING....................................77,344 ................7,581......................16 ........... 0.098 ........... 0.100 ...........0.098........... 0.098 ............. 0.101............-0.003 ........... -2.970 ...............0.098..............0.097...................0.100................ 7,370,384 ........0.100 OM0000005005 ...........ALMAHA CERAMICS ..................................................29,025 ............ 14,448......................19 ............0.510 ........... 0.510 ...........0.494........... 0.498 .............0.522 ...........-0.024 ........... -4.598 ...............0.500..............0.500...................0.508 ..............24,900,000 ......0.100 OM0000002366 ...........AL BATINAH DEV. INV. HOLDING ...................... 229,810 ........... 27,042..................... 33 ............0.120 ........... 0.120 ........... 0.117 ............0.118 .............0.130............-0.012 ............-9.231................0.117 ............. 0.000................... 0.117 ................3,540,000........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 1,526,388 ...... 186,349................... 189 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......10..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BONDS MARKET ........................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000004602 ...........BANK MUSCAT CONV. BONDS 4.5 .......................... 4,978 .................. 525........................3 ............0.106 ........... 0.106 ...........0.105 ........... 0.106 .............0.106 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.105 ..............0.105...................0.110 ...............32,091,406.......0.100 OM0000004867 ...........BANK MUSCAT C C B 4.5 ........................................... 19,834 ...............2,238........................4 ............0.112 ........... 0.113............0.112 ............0.113 ............. 0.113 ............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.112 .............. 0.112................... 0.113 ............... 36,119,622 .......0.100 .............................................SUM: ....................................................................................24,812 ...............2,763........................7 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ........2..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

INDIAN MARKETS

BSE Sensex snaps six-session gaining streak; rupee tumbles MUMBAI: In a variable trade, the benchmark S&P BSE Sensex could not able to sustain 28,000-mark registered nearly four-month ago in early trade and snapped its straight six-session of gaining string, declining by 46 points to end at 27,842.32 on selling mainly in IT and technology counters on the back of dismal trade on Wall Street last weekend and weak Asian closing yesterday.

Dullness in European opening trade too weighed on the local bourses in the later part of the day.

IT stocks attracted profit-booking ahead of the announcement of the third quarter results by software bellwether, Infosys, on January 9 amid fall in tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index last weekend.

Contrary to this, auto, consumer durable and capital goods stocks attracted good buying interest. Fall

in the HDFC, TCS, Infosys, RIL, HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel, Dr Reddy’s Lab, SBI, Hindalco and SSLT mainly put pressure on the market.

Had there not been a rise in Tata Motors, L&T, Maruti Suzuki, ITC, ONGC, Axis Bank and Tata Steel, the fall in the Sensex would have been much more pronounced.

The BSE 30-share indicator resumed higher and crossed 28,000mark to a high of 28,064.49, up by

more-than 175 points. But emergence of profit-booking pulled the index down at the fag end to a low of 27,786.85, before recovering some ground to end at 27,842.32, showing a fall of 45.58 points or 0.16 per cent. In last six days, it had flared up by 679.29 points or 2.50 per cent.

The wide-based 50-issue CNX Nifty of the NSE also fell back by 17.05 points or 0.20 pct to 8,378.40.

Rupee depreciates The Indian rupee yesterday reacted downwards by 12 paise to log nearly one-week closing low of 63.41 against the Greenback on weakness in local equities amid fresh dollar demand from importers. A firm dollar overseas too weighed on the rupee even as participants took heart from renewed capital inflows in the new year capped losses to

some extent, forex dealers said.

The domestic unit commenced weak at 63.43 a dollar from last weekend’s close of 63.29. Soon after, it touched a low of 63.50 before bouncing back to a high of 63.28.

The rupee later again fell back in the fag-end in sync with drop in domestic stocks to settle at 63.41 — logging a net loss of 12 paise or 0.19 per cent. This is its weakest closing since 63.67 on December 29. - PTI

T U E S DAY, JAN UARY 6, 2 0 1 5

B5

ROUND-UP A’Saffa Foods’ state-of-art production plant producing top quality products The infrastructure at A’Saffa includes parent farms, feed mill, environmentally controlled sheds (EC Shed), hatchery, modern (fully automated, untouched by hand) processing plant, R&D centre, disease diagnostics and feed analytical labs

MUSCAT: A’Saffa Foods, Oman’s leading home-grown food producer and the largest fully integrated poultry project, leaves no stone unturned in its commitment to deliver products of the highest quality and its state-of-the art production plant plays an important role in achieving that objective.

In poultry integration, infrastructure becomes the backbone of the operations, and A’Saffa understands this, ensuring that a well-established infrastructure

supports their poultry operations end-to-end, resulting in quality control and optimised productivity, says a press release.

The infrastructure at A’Saffa includes parent farms, feed mill, environmentally controlled sheds (EC Shed), hatchery, modern (fully automated, untouched by hand) processing plant, R&D centre, disease diagnostics and feed analytical labs. A’Saffa birds are fed with 100% natural feed (yellow corn and soya) ingredients that are

FROM THAILAND

also manufactured at the A’Saffa Feed mill, all throughout the raising period. As a principle following religious, healthy and ethical practices, the company prohibits use of chicken byproducts and substitutes for feeding the birds. Meticulous attention to details, high bio-security and stringent quality control checks throughout the processes ensure that the chicken that reaches you is 100% natural, pure, tasty and safe.

Commenting on their plant and farm management systems, A’Saffa Foods Head Marketing and Sales, Sidhartha Lenka said: “Parent lines are reared by A’Saffa’s experts with scientific management processes in a bio-secure environment. With a keen understanding and insight of the requirements, the parent lines are reared to deliver improved feed conversion rate, increased productivity, better performance and adaptability of

the chicken to Oman’s environmental conditions.”

He continued, “A’Saffa 100% natural and tasty chickens are bred in a closed controlled hygienic environment, and 21 million naturally-fed and hand slaughtered chickens reproduced every year.

A’Saffa poultry does not contain added hormones, steroids, artificial flavour and colour or chemical preservatives, synthetic ingredient and no artificial injection of water to increase chicken weight.

It’s all part of our effort to give you the most natural product — ascertaining A’Saffa as your only 100% natural and tasty choice.”

A’Saffa Foods take pride in having the first technologically advanced sheds, that are one-ofa-kind in Oman and that have a capacity to house 32,500 chickens and each farm is automatically controlled through advanced climate control systems. Optimal temperatures and humidity levels are programmed into the system and it maintains the conditions round the clock. In addition, the entire feeding and watering sys-

tems are fully automated. The entire farm is operated and controlled from a single computerbased system.

A’Saffa Foods has been a pioneer in the production of quality poultry products since the company established its operations in 2001 and is now an acknowledged leader in the poultry market in Oman and rapidly growing its international presence in the GCC and beyond.

One of the keys to the taste and quality of A’Saffa Foods chicken products is the fact that all chickens at the state of the art facility in the south of Oman are fed natural feed – that plays a major role in the superb taste of the chickens and ensures that consumers are buying a natural and tasty product.

Being pioneers in fully integrated poultry production and farm management systems we have built our competence and expertise in food production, processed food technology and innovative food recipes helping us to deliver new, flavourful choices that consumers can enjoy anytime,” said Sidhartha Lenka.

‘ W I YA K U M ’ I N I T I AT I V E

Nama Group hosts competition to enhance volunteering culture

Khimji’s Mart introduces pure coconut water

MUSCAT: Nama Group, formerly known as Electricity Holding Company, has collaborated with Oman Network of Volunteers to launch a competition called ‘Wiyakum’ aimed at raising the capabilities of individual volunteers as well as volunteering groups.

The competition has brought together 95 different teams consisting of 3,800 volunteers from different parts of the Sultanate, and will focus on developing the abilities of these volunteers to better serve their community as well as inspire others to get involved in the volunteering culture, says a press release.

‘Wiyakum’ initiative was launched in Qurum Natural Park where 85 volunteers participated during the Sultanate’s celebration of ‘The World Volunteering Day’.

the drink comes straight from the plant and no additives means there is no caffeine, fat, cholesterol, or preservatives; just delightfully pure coconut water.

“Coconut water is highly nutritious. It is a functional food because it provides many additional health benefits. UFC Coconut Water is said to contain 5 essential electrolytes: potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and magnesium,” said Devendra Kumar, Head, Khimji Ramdas Retail Division. UFC Refresh coconut water is exclusively available in Khimji’s Mart.

Social responsibility “We launched this initiative believing that giving back to the community is a responsibility of both organisations and individuals and we chose this competition to help the youth showcase their talent and passion for giving.

We aim to help the participants further by honing their skills in projects that will help serve their community. This competition fits perfectly into our sustainability pillars as it aims to provide longterm benefit to individuals and communities,” stated, Abdullah Al

MUSCAT: For the food aficionados of Oman, Khimji’s Mart has brought the new treat in the Sultanate. The largest supermarket chain in Oman announced the introduction of UFC Refresh, ‘100% natural coconut water’ sourced from the coconut belt in Thailand where the world’s most delicious coconuts are grown, says a press release.

UFC Refresh coconut water is not made from concentrate. It is a healthy, natural rehydration beverage that contains no added sugar or additives. The sweet taste of

‘Wiyakum’ initiative was launched in Qurum Natural Park where 85 volunteers participated during the Sultanate’s celebration of ‘The World Volunteering Day’. Participants of the ‘Wiyakum’ competition will have the chance to showcase their ‘volunteering project plans’ to a specialised evaluation panel to choose the winning projects at a later ceremony

Shukaili, sustainability manager, Electricity Holding Company.

Workshops Along with the competition, the group has also conducted multiple workshops aimed to strengthen the volunteering culture and encourage individuals to get involved.

Participants of the ‘Wiyakum’ competition will have the chance to showcase their ‘volunteering project plans’ to a specialised evaluation panel to choose the winning projects at a later ceremony.

SPECIAL YEAR

BMW claims more than 50 awards in 2014 MUNICH: BMW has concluded the year 2014, in every respect a successful one, with more than 50 national and international awards.

The prize winners were chosen by juries comprising readers of trade magazines or by specialised journalists who selected the winners in various different topic areas and categories.

The spectrum of distinctions ranges from awards for design, sustainability, sportiness and innovation to intelligent vehicle networking, says a press release.

International success The most important international prizes include the renowned “International Engine of the Year Award”, with the winner being determined by a specialized jury consisting of 82 car journalists from 34 countries. The 3-litre straight six-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology was declared winner of the coveted prize in its respective category for the fourth time now.

The same jury twice awarded the BMW i3 the title “World Green Car of the Year”, also acknowledging its trendsetting design with the title “World Car Design of the

Year”. The amalgamation of the “Chicago Athenaeum, Museum for Architecture and Design” and the “European Centre for Architecture, Art Design and Urban Studies” also honoured the BMW 3 Series GT and the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Concept with the “Good Design Award” The technological leadership of BMW ConnectedDrive in the area of assistance systems was verified by top rankings, both nationally and internationally.

BMW received the ‘Euro NCAP Advanced Award’ for the Pedestrian Warning feature with City Braking function, a driver assistant system that reduces the danger of collision with pedestrians in urban traffic. Moreover, the new BMW Laser light technology was presented with the ‘Editorial Award for Technology 2014’, bestowed by the AutoScout24 magazine within the framework of the Internet Auto Award, Europe’s biggest public Internet award for the automotive trade.

Last but not least, the BMW i8 was voted Top Gear magazine’s ‘Car of the Year’ by the British cult journal. In its appraisal, the magazine states that “the BMW

honoured by the Industrie Forum Design e.V with the “iF product design award 2014” in recognition of its innovative styling.

i8 is a milestone in the annals of automotive history and a glorious statement for an exciting and positive future”.

In Germany, readers of the trade magazine Auto, Motor and Sport were among those who voted the BMW i3, the BMW 4 Series Coupe and the BMW 5 Series ‘Best Cars’.

BMW design This year witnessed the awarding of the ‘Red Dot’ to several BMW models. The ‘Red Dot

Design Award’ is bestowed by an international jury of experts within the framework of a design competition held by the North Rhine-Westphalia Design Centre for products with outstanding design quality.

The prize went to the BMW 2 Series Coupe, the BMW 3 Series GT, the BMW 4 Series Coupe and Convertible as well as the BMW i3 in the category ‘Best of Best’. The BMW i8 also received a ‘Red Dot Award’. Moreover, the car was also

Major awards for sustainability, efficiency and quality BMW’s success in the “Green Mobility Trophy” competition held by the “Auto Zeitung” most impressively underscores the brand’s strong commitment to environmental and sustainability issues.

In 2014, BMW won six out of a total of seven awards.

Almost 14,000 readers of the trade magazine cast their vote in favour of sustainable and efficient automobiles and technologies.

The BMW i3, the first purely electric premium vehicle, seized two first places as the best electric car made from lightweight materials.

The BMW i8 was voted “Best Hybrid Car”. Furthermore, the BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics Edition was honoured as “Best Economy Diesel” and the BMW 2-litre, 4-cylinder power unit as “Best Downsizing Engine”.

The BMW brand’s unique sustainability clinched victory in the “Green Mobility Trophy” in the category “Environmentally

Friendliest Brand”. In addition, BMW was awarded the “GTÜ Quality Trophy 2014” for the outstanding technical quality of its vehicles and for good service. The prize was bestowed by the GTÜ (Gesellschaft für Technische Überwachung) based on data obtained from around five million roadworthiness tests (MOT tests).

The BMW i3, the revolutionary concept, which was newly conceived and designed for electromobility and which features a lightweight, high-strength carbon passenger compartment, has enthused trade journalists throughout the world.

For example, in addition to national and international design awards, the car was also bestowed with the “Paul Pietsch Prize” awarded by the trade magazine “auto, motor und sport” for the most innovative technological concept.

The second model by BMW i, the unique BMW i8 hybrid sports car, also received accolades, including the “Auto Trophy” awarded by the trade journal “Auto Zeitung”. Readers voted the BMW i8 both “Best New Vehicle” and “Best Electric/Hybrid Car”.

B6

TU ESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015

ROUND-UP Leading singer Humeira Arshad enthrals Muscat

The fully packed Muscat Club football stadium in Wadi Kabir was seen chanting and screaming ‘once more’ in the several rounds of standing ovation that she received throughout the performance

MUSCAT: Humeira Arshad, a well-known Pakistani playback singer, enthralled the Muscat audience at a live concert organised recently by Modern Exchange, one of the oldest exchange companies in Oman, as part of their massive expansion plans, at the Muscat Club football stadium in Wadi Kabir.

Songs after songs, Humeira took her fans in Oman to a mesmerising world of hit songs and ghazals with her mellifluous voice and flawless rendition, says a press release.

Ayaz Hussain, Ambassador of Pakistan to Oman, inaugurated the show while officials from UBL and HBL delivered a short speech.

The fully packed ground was seen chanting and screaming ‘once more’ in the several rounds of standing ovation that she received throughout the performance.

“This is our humble effort to

pay back our customers from Asia and we are happy that the concert turned out to be one of the largest live shows in the country,” said a Modern Exchange Co official.

“Modern Exchange Company, which is extending its network in Sultanate of Oman to 20 branches, is known for its Zero-Minute

remittance, which means money is credited to customers account in seconds as Modern Exchange believes in customer satisfaction,” he added.

It was an unforgettable evening for Pakistani fans who enjoyed the old songs sung by their favourite singer Humeira Arshad.

S E N I O R C O N S U LTA N T

Al Hayat welcomes new endocrinologist MUSCAT: Al Hayat International Hospital, Al Ghubra has recently inducted Dr Masoud Yahya Al Maskari, M.D., Ph.D, as Senior Consultant Endocrinologist, says a press release.

Starting his career as a junior house officer in the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, UK, in 1989, the year 1992 saw him being appointed as honorary registrar in the department of medicine (endocrinology) in the prestigious University of Newcastle upon Tyne in the United Kingdom, a post he held for the next five years. His subsequent position of specialist registrar saw him handling special endocrine cases, as well as running endocrine clinics.

Returning to Oman in 1997, he served as Assistant Professor in Sultan Qaboos University and subsequently as a Consultant Endocrinologist in Sultan Qaboos University Hospital.

He has also held the prestigious position of Assistant Dean in Oman Medical College and Dean, College of Health, University of Buraimi.

He is actively involved in teaching and training students, as well as junior doctors. His professional affiliations include membership of the National Diabetic Committee, Oman, British Endocrine Society, and American Diabetes Association. He has participated and presented papers in a number of international conferences and organised workshops and published papers and books on endocrine and diabetes management and gives talks on radio and television.

Dr Masoud specialises in diagnosing and treating endocrine

Dr Masoud will be available for consultation every alternate Saturday, starting from January 10, offering 50% discount on his consultation fees and 20% discount on lab tests referred by him disorders, which include diabetes, thyroid conditions, pituitary and adrenal diseases, as also calcium, growth and hormone disorders.

He also treats osteoporosis, erectile dysfunction in men (a condition which many affected men are embarrassed and avoid discussing with their doctor), problems related to menopause in women, high blood pressure caused by adrenal hormone over secretion, growth problems in children, problems related to puberty in adolescent boys and girls, male sex hormone deficiency in middle-aged men, and all complications of diabetes and low blood sugar levels.

Though most physicians treat diabetes well, in many cases it is difficult to control the blood sugar and such cases should be referred to a consultant endocrinologist.

Dr Masoud will be available for consultation every alternate Saturday, starting from January 10, offering 50% discount on his consultation fees and 20% discount on lab tests referred by him.

ACCOLADE

Al Hashar declared best distributor by Ariston MUSCAT: Al Hashar Electronics Group has received the Best Distributor Award – Mena region for 2014 from Ariston, the leader in kitchen appliances and laundry, for their outstanding performance.

Sultan Al Kharusi, Managing Director, Al Hashar Group, received the award from Massimo D’Ascanio, International Area Commercial Director at a ceremony held in Muscat recently.

Rajeev Sharma, general manager, Al Hashar Electronics Group and Dany Kasbah, managing director, Mena region, Ariston, were present on the occasion, says a press release.

Massimo said that the award was bestowed on Al Hashar Electronics Group in recognition and appreciation of its outstanding

performance in establishing Ariston brand in the Sultanate. The over three decades long ties between Al Hashar and Ariston have touched greater heights with a

consistent growth in sales.

“The innovative marketing strategies formulated by Al Hashar Electronics Group paved the way for winning the maiden award from Ariston. The support and patronage of our customers, the management of Ariston and our employees have resulted in our consistent growth” said Sultan Al Kharusi.

“We are really honoured as the award was presented to our group in sheer recognition of our strenuous and consistent efforts to promote Ariston brand across the length and breadth of Oman,” said Rajeev Sharma.

With 45 years history of trusted innovation, Ariston aims at enhancing home and lifestyle through its latest appliances that

provide unmatched style. In fact in the manufacture of Ariston appliances design, innovation, technology and lifestyle merge effortlessly.

The excellent sales performance by a team of professionals has earned Al Hashar Electronics Group the respect of its principals as well as industry in Oman. Al Hashar’s strong sales focus helped them bag awards from renowned organisations around the globe.

As far as Ariston is concerned, eco-compliance and a constant drive towards quality and innovation turn into next generation home appliances. It has a tradition of paying particular attention to product design aimed at obtaining products which are solid, innovative and functional.

ACADEMICS

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ICEM to host 10th graduation ceremony on January 12 MUSCAT: A total of 150 graduates of International College of Engineering and Management (ICEM) of the 2013-14 academic year will receive their awards in various disciplines at the college’s 10th annual award ceremony to be held at the ShangriLa’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa on January 12.

The graduates, over 40 of them females, will be conferred the degrees in the presence of Dr Mohammed Nasser Al Zaabi, CEO of the Public Authority for Civil Aviation; Dr Martin Brown, dean of ICEM; and Dr Robin Pollard, deputy vice chancellor of the University of Central Lancashire. Distinguished guests from across Omani business society will be present on the occasion, says a press release.

ICEM has awarded almost 2,000 awards to students during the last 10 years with nearly 80% of these being young Omani men and women. ICEM graduates are working in national and international organisations across the economy including oil and gas, petrochemicals, aviation, construction, real estate, retail and the hospitality industries.

T U E S DAY, JAN UARY 6, 2 0 1 5

B7

ROUND-UP Kia Sorento now available with irresistible cash gift A marvel of modern technology, the 2015 Sorento offers equal measures of value and sophistication

MUSCAT: The latest New Year, news from Kia will definitely please those who have dreamt of owning a Sorento. It is now available with a delightful offer — a choice of taking home an OMR750 cash gift or the flexibility of using it to meet payment commitments towards vehicle financing, says a press release.

“This is a good time to own a Kia Sorento,” says the spokesperson.

A marvel of modern technology, the 2015 Sorento offers equal measures of value and sophistication, with its powerful 2.4 litre, 4 Cylinder, Dual C.V.V.T Engine producing 174 HP / 6000 rpm, with 23.1 Kg.M. of Torque at 3750 rpm.

The powertrain is equipped with a steel timing chain and 6 speed

h-matic transmission. Luxurious options in the 2015 Sorento include front and rear air conditioners, radio CD MP3 player with USB, iPod connectivity and aux with 6 speakers, steering controls (auto cruise/ audio/ bluetooth/ trip computer); power windows & outside side mirrors; keyless entry system; overhead console with sunglass storage & map lamps; (2+3+2) seating configuration; 1st row seats; sliding & reclining seats with adjustable headrests; driver seat height adjuster; 2nd row seats; 60/40 split folding with centre armrest; adjustable headrests; tumble seat; 3rd row seats - 50:50 foldable bench type for 2 passen-

gers and adjustable headrests.

In addition to the above, the 2015 Sorento - 3.5 LX PWR A/T - offers spirited performance of a 3.5 litre V6, Dual C.V.V.T Engine producing 277 HP / 6300 rpm. The Sorento 3.5 EX PWR A/T offers a full view panoramic sunroof, dual front auto ac w/ clean air ionizer, 235 / 55 r 19 machine finished alloy wheels, front parking sensor, colour TFT touchscreen for audio/bluetooth control settings & rear view camera imaging, auto light control, power folding outer mirrors, led side repeater on outer mirrors, leather wrapped steering wheel & TGS knob, LED rear combination lamp, mood lamp, illu-

minated door scuffs & sun visors, rear spoiler, chrome outer door handles & chrome accent-air vent knob, audio/heater dials, cluster ring, cup-holder and leather cluster housing.

The 2015 Sorento has also received the National Highway Traffic Safety Authority’s Overall 5-Star Crash Safety Rating. It has been voted for delivering better than average standard and optional safety features and receiving the highly coveted 5-stars on the frontal crash, side crash and rollover crash tests.

“A dynamic design, outstanding performance and delightful features have made Sorento one of Kia’s most popular vehicles,” said Michael Sprague, Executive Vice President Of Sales and Marketing, Kia Motors America.

His words gained more weight ever since the 2015 Kia Sorento was recognised to be the ‘Best Family Vehicle’, by Northwest Automotive Press Association (NWAPA).

“Winning the ‘Best Family Vehicle’ accolade from the NWAPA is further validation of the Sorento’s appealing blend of all-around style and capability, with an abundance of safety features,” Michael Sprague acknowledged.

L AT E S T T E C H N O L O G Y I N AU D I T

One day workshop for Salalah auditors SALALAH: ACL Services, the leading global provider of business assurance analytics to auditors, compliance professionals, and finance executives, will hold a one day certified workshop in Salalah. Al Osool Al Arabia will bring the best available information about the latest technology in audit using ACL on January 19, says a press release.

ACL is recognised worldwide as the leading software for data analysis, fraud detection and reporting. It transforms the data into meaningful information, for analysing the fraud patterns and timely reporting. ACL provides business assurance that complements and completes business intelligence. ACL’s whole solution gives organisations access

to 100% of their data and enables them to analyse and independently validate data and transactions for integrity in a fraction of the time once required. The exception can be pushed to GRC solution for a better management. Latest edition of ACL comes with effective data visualisation. Data visualisation helps identify trends, pat-

terns, exceptions and relationships easily through a data driven GRC experience.

“This will be an excellent opportunity for the existing users to brush up their knowledge in addition to freshers. Designed for those who need a helping hand in getting back on track with ACL latest edition, this course introduces you to ACL in an interactive, hands-on learning environment. You will learn key data analysis concepts and the basics of working with ACL software.

Examples used in class will illustrate how the software can add value to your audits. The target group of participants for this workshop includes Financial, Operational, and External Auditors; Information Systems Auditors

O N L I N E E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Full-box set of ‘Breaking Bad’ added to Go by OSN DUBAI: OSN, the region’s leading pay-TV network, is redefining the online entertainment experience this January with the exclusive screening of the full box-set of the much-acclaimed series Breaking Bad and an impressive range of blockbuster movies on Go by OSN, says a press release. Available at just US$10 per month, Go by OSN subscribers enjoy unlimited premium Hollywood and Arabic movies and series on-the-go, contract and commitment-free.

“Go by OSN has set a new industry benchmark with its high quality streaming service matched by a remarkable array of premium content. With the interactive platform, we have brought a new dimension to delivering exclusive content to onthe-go platforms,” said Emad Morcos, senior vice president, Business Development, OSN.

SMARTEN UP DRIVE SAFE

A TIMES OF OMAN HANDS-FREE DRIVING INITIATIVE

and control professionals. The prospective ACL users will get an insight in using computerised audit tools,” said an ACL official.

In this group live interactive workshop participants are entitled to four hours of CPE credits and time limited version of ACL software. “You will want to be there to learn how ACL offers simple and flexible way to gain deeper insight into the Risk Management process including Fraud Risk Management, how audit management process can be effective by using powerful datadriven insight,” he added.

ACL one day workshop will enhance participants with knowledge on effective fraud detection and prevention methodology through accurate data analysis.

EFFIE MENA MARKETER OF THE YEAR

Infiniti’s Regional Marketing Head claims top honour MUSCAT: Building on the recent sales success of Infiniti, the region’s fastest growing premium car brand, Deputy General Manager, Marketing and PR, Francesca Ciaudano, has been awarded the industry’s top Middle East accolade — the EFFIE Mena Marketer of the Year.

The GMR Marketer of the Year Award honours the individual who, through innovation, strategy and communications excellence, has made a positive impact on the market place, evidenced through clearly quantifiable post-campaign evaluation and who has made a significant contribution to raising the standard of marketing in the Middle East, says a press release.

Commenting on the award, Ciaudano said; “It is a tremendous honour for me to receive this recognition from my industry peers.

Much as Infiniti’s philosophy is about taking risks, being bold and challenging the status quo, I have tried to bring and reflect these traits strongly in all of Infiniti’s marketing communication and to be awarded in this way alongside Infiniti recently becoming the region’s fastest growing premium

automotive brand demonstrates it is a successful strategy.”

Ciaudano also spearheaded a campaign which led to Infiniti winning a New Product Launch - Bronze award in its own right at the Effies. “The KSA market is very important to Infiniti and we had to find a way to introduce the brand without being intrusive. Our team’s insights into understanding the best way to put across our message in Saudi Arabia – by encouraging and activating Saudi nationals to become brand ambassadors themselves – was key. The campaign focused on activating Saudi families, using Infiniti cars, to showcase their heritage and demonstrate their pride for their country,” concluded Ciaudano.

B8

TU ESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015

ROUND-UP

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Promoting local talent: NBO leads the way with 9 key Omani appointments Salma Al Jaaidi has led various divisions within the bank’s risk management group and until recently served as its Deputy Chief Risk Officer. Al Jaaidi holds a Masters’ degree in Business Administration.

The appointments were made to ensure it has the necessary structures and talent in place to capitalise on current and future opportunities at home and abroad

MUSCAT: National Bank of Oman (NBO), the Sultanate’s leading financial institution, has recently appointed nine Omanis to key senior positions within the bank. The appointments represent the next step in National Bank of Oman’s journey to deliver service and operational excellence as well as its commitment to provide the best career path for Omani nationals working in the financial services industry, says a press release.

The appointments were made following a review of NBO’s organisational model to ensure it has the necessary structures and talent in place to capitalise on current and future opportunities at home and abroad.

Nasser Al Hajri has been appointed as General Manager - Chief Human Resources Officer and Head of Corporate Affairs; Nasser Al Rashdi as General Manager – Chief SME Officer and Head of International Business; Salma Al Jaaidi as Chief Risk Officer subject to regulatory approvals; Hassan Shaaban as Head of Government Banking and Business Synergies; Sayyid Wasfi Al Said as Deputy Head of the Wholesale Banking Group; Hamood Al Eisri as Head of Internal Audit; Ibrahim Al Maamari as Acting Head of Compliance; Leen Al Atassi as Head of

BEST BRAINS: Senior NBO officials (from left) Ibrahim Al Maamari, Hassan Shaaban, Salma Al Jaaidi, Nasser Al Hajri, Ahmed Al Musalmi,

Nasser Al Rashdi, Sayyid Wasfi Al Said, Hamood Al Eisri and Leen Al Atassi pose for a photograph. – Supplied photo

Corporate Communications and CSR and Saleh Al Harthy as Acting Head of Information Technology.

These appointments re-affirm the bank’s commitment to developing and promoting Omani talent to senior roles in support of the nation’s Omanisation efforts.

“The elevation of these nine employees recognises their enormous individual contributions to the bank during their tenures.

National Bank of Oman is proud to offer the most fulfilling career opportunities for national talent and these appointments are further testament to this assertion.

I am absolutely delighted that we have attracted such a high calibre of Omani business leaders to these strategic roles.

These are important appointments that will add the necessary leadership, extensive experience, expertise and depth that will help us build business synergies, drive our transformation, deliver our strategic objectives and bring us a step closer to achieving our ambitious goals,” said Ahmed Al Musalmi, CEO of National Bank of Oman.

“We are committed to supporting and promoting Omani talent across all levels of the organisation, and we continue to identify and develop a strong pipeline of experienced local business leaders and banking professionals that will

shape National Bank of Oman’s future to continuously reach to new heights and become the Bank of Choice. We have introduced various talent management and succession planning programmes to increase the representation of Omanis within the organisation, particularly at senior levels,” Al Musalmi added.

NBO is also committed to advancing talented Omani women to senior leadership positions and creating a strong pipeline for senior female managers. Salma Al Jaaidi is the first Omani woman in Oman’s banking history to be appointed to a Chief Risk Officer’s role. The bank’s Omanisation efforts and strong business performance are largely attributed to the robust training and leadership development programmes offered by its Academy of Excellence. As part of the bank’s integrated talent and leadership development framework, 28 business leaders recently graduated from the NBO transformational leadership programme, which was delivered in collaboration with the prestigious London Business School over a period of 8 months, and which was designed to enhance business leaders’ skillsets. For the first time in Oman’s banking history, National Bank of Oman has taken the lead through a unique collaboration with the renowned London Business School.

C U LT U R A L C E L E B R AT I O N

the community, to achieve its vision: To be the bank of choice.

Nasser Al Hajri: He combines the new position of Head of Corporate Affairs with his current role of General Manager - Chief Human Resources Officer. Al Hajri’s experience spans over two decades in key leadership roles and he will have overall accountability for Projects, Procurement, Facility management and the overall legal and administrative affairs of the bank. Al Hajri holds a Masters’ degree in Business Administration as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.

Nasser Al Rashdi: The newly formed role of General Manager - Chief SME Officer and Head of International Business is filled by Nasser Al Rashdi. Prior to his appointment, he served as the bank’s Chief Internal Auditor. In his new role, Al Rashdi will lead the bank’s efforts to develop and implement an overall strategic and coordinating framework that better facilitates the strong focus and support the Bank delivers to its SME and International clients, especially SMEs in Oman with cross-border trading requirements.

Salma Al Jaaidi: With a career spanning over 29 years with various leading financial institutions,

Sayyid Wasfi Al Said: He takes on the newly created role of Deputy Head of the Wholesale Banking Group to provide additional senior resource in a fast growing area of the business. He previously served as Deputy General Manager - Investment Banking at National Bank of Oman and is a highly experienced professional, with more than 14 years’ experience.

Hamood Al Esri: Recently appointed as Head of Internal Audit, subject to regulatory approvals, he is a Chartered Accountant with over 20 years’ banking experience.

He previously served as the bank’s Financial Controller.

Ibrahim Al Maamari: Appointed as Acting Head of Compliance, subject to regulatory approvals, he has over 14 years’ banking experience and holds a Masters’ degree in Business Administration.

Leen Al Atassi: Appointed as Head of Corporate Communications and CSR, Al Atassi joins National Bank of Oman from HSBC Bank Oman, with over nine years’ experience, and holds a Masters’ degree in Business Administration.

Saleh Al Harthy: Appointed as Acting Head of Information Technology, Al Harthy has over 30 years’ banking experience, 20 years of which he served at NBO.

3 - D AY O F F E R

Bank Muscat extends lead support to Muscat Festival MUSCAT: Bank Muscat, the flagship financial services provider in the Sultanate, has extended lead support to Muscat Festival, the Sultanate’s annual tourism and cultural celebration to be held from January 15 to February 14.

Bank Muscat presence will prominently adorn the main festival venues in Al Amerat Park and Naseem Garden, providing the required assistance for visitors. During the 31-day festival, Bank Muscat services, including ATMs, will be available beyond the normal office hours, serving as a boon to the large crowds visiting the festival every day, says a press release.

On average, over 2 million visitors, including foreign tourists, visit Muscat Festival every year.

Abdullah Al Rahbi, head –

In addition, in support of the Sultanate’s job creation efforts, National Bank of Oman introduced the ‘Qadat Al Mustaqbal’ graduate development programme that underscores the bank’s focus on attracting talented Omani youth in the banking industry.

Through the academic outreach programme, National Bank of Oman aims to strengthen the skill-sets of Omani students and fresh graduates by working across different disciplines within the bank. This will not only provide them a ringside view of the operations of the banking industry but also enable them to pursue rewarding careers backed by their hands-on experience, and will further strengthen the bank’s mission to be the ‘employer of choice’ for Omani talent.

NBO, the first local bank in the Sultanate, is committed to attracting and developing Omani talent and providing opportunities for career advancement through its extensive bank-wide training, talent management and succession planning programmes. The bank’s primary focus is to maintain its track record of sustainable growth through a strategy based on four key foundations: Putting customers first, creating the best working environment for employees, yielding strong and sustainable returns for shareholders and investing in

Hassan Shaaban: In addition to his existing responsibilities as Head of Government Banking, Hassan Shaaban’s new role includes Head of Business Synergies.

Shaaban will capitalise on business synergies to facilitate the delivery of a holistic and integrated banking model that will enhance customers’ banking experience.

Events and Sponsorship, said: “Over the years, Bank Muscat has extended lead support to Muscat Festival and remains committed to ensuring the success of the most celebrated annual tourism and cultural event in Oman. Bank Muscat aims to fulfil its commitment to national initiatives, uniting citizens and residents in sharing the good times and discovering the joy of being connected. The Muscat Festival partnership is an earnest attempt by the bank to propagate the core family values held dear by Omanis.”

Bank Muscat’s presence in the event highlights its role in facilitating the exchange of traditions and culture between nations. The bank attaches importance to extending support to preservation of Oman’s

rich heritage and culture, thereby encouraging people to maintain a strong link to the country’s glorious legacy. The ethos of national events like Muscat Festival runs in parallel to the stated objective of Bank Muscat in serving the nation as the banking partner of choice.

While Muscat Festival showcases varied expressions of Omani heritage and culture, Bank Muscat aims to utilise the occasion to help people understand, appreciate and preserve Oman’s rich legacy.

Muscat Festival serves as a window to Oman’s heritage and culture, offering numerous avenues for fun and entertainment for children and families. The participation of Bank Muscat complements in making the festival a memorable experience.

Free extra credit on Hayyak top up MUSCAT: In a generous new promotion, Omantel, the leading telecommunication provider in the Sultanate, will give all Hayyak customers, who top up with OMR3, OMR5 and OMR10 or OMR3 and above electronically, 100 per cent free extra credit. The offer is available for just three days, from January 6 to 8.

The free credit is valid for seven days from the date of recharge and it may be used for local calls, international calls, SMS/MMS or Pay As You Go Data.

The bonus amount cannot be transferred to other customers, nor can it be used for subscriptions services or while roaming, says a press release.

“Omantel seeks to provide its customers with value added services and products. This promotion will offer our Hayyak customers 100 per cent free credit when they top up with OMR3, OMR5,

and OMR10 cards or OMR3 and above electronically.

“The promotion applies to those who recharge their accounts during the offer period which is valid for three days only. The maximum free bonus is OMR10,“ said Shadli Al Abdulsalam, Senior Manager Product Development at Omantel Consumer unit.

“Omantel always seeks to meet the needs of its customers and en-

sure that they are connected with their world as well as delivering a unique, rewarding and exciting experience,” he added.

Omantel is the pioneer provider of leading edge telecommunications services in the Sultanate of Oman connecting individuals, enterprises and government across the country through a state-ofthe-art network. Omantel is listed on the Muscat Securities Market.

PROMOTION

Customers continue to win big at Malabar Gold Festival MUSCAT: Customers continue to cash in at the fourth edition of ‘Malabar Gold and Diamonds Festival’, one of the biggest jewellery events in GCC, that will run until January 31.

The festival will display distinctive pieces of jewellery from across the world and offers massive gifts and irresistible offers, says a press release.

Customers get unprecedented opportunities to win a total of 250,000 gold coins and up to OMR200,000 instant cash refund in this much-awaited festival. Customers have already won over 100,000 gold coins and over OMR100,000 instant cash refund through this promotion.

With the successful completion of the 25 days of the festival, the customers continue to win big across all the outlets of Malabar Gold & Diamond. This great winning has created excitement among customers.

Malabar Gold and Diamonds

Festival, running in all GCC countries and Singapore, stands apart from the usual jewellery exhibitions and promotions and as the tag line indicates, ‘Everyone Wins’, every customer gets a chance to be a winner through this festival.

A true shopper’s delight, Malabar Gold and Diamonds Festival captivates the customers by exhibiting eye catching designs in gold, platinum, diamonds and precious stones from different parts of the world to flaunt any occasion or event and is well priced too.

For every purchase of gold jewellery above OMR200, the customers get a ‘Scratch & Win’ coupon through which they can win a guaranteed gold coin or up to 100 gold coins instantly.

With every diamond jewellery purchase, the customers get a ‘Scratch & Win’ coupon for a guaranteed cash refund and get a chance to win up to 100% cash back. The customers who buy diamond jewellery worth OMR200 or

above are eligible to get both the coupons. Furthermore, 8gm gold coins can be bought from their outlets with absolutely no making charge during this period.

The group also gives their customers the advantage of using their 0% easy instalment plan through which the customers can buy jewellery by using credit cards of Bank Muscat, Bank Sohar, HSBC or Standard Chartered Bank and can pay the total amount in 3 to 12 instalments without any interest.

Keeping up with customer demands, the jewellery chain offers a fabulous collection of gold, diamond and platinum jewellery to suit the tastes of both resident and international customers, skilfully crafted by jewellery specialists from Italy, Singapore, Turkey, Bahrain and India.

Operating 124 retail outlets globally, the group is always at the forefront when it comes to promotions and celebrations.

C

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015

SECTION

SPOR YOUR GAME

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CAPTAIN KOHLI PROMISESS POSITIVE APPROACH Thrust back into the India captaincy after Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s shock decision to retire from tests last week, Virat Kohli hopes to put right some of the mistakes he made in his first match in charge against Australia.. >C2

Ali’s arrival boosts Oman Frenchman Paul Le Guen-coached Omanis were a bit down after being hit with injury concerns followed by a surprise 1-4 loss to China in a friendly match in the run-up to the Asian Cup. But Ali Al

WARMING-UP: Oman players training in Canberra on Monday and appeared less worried on the injuries. Ali Al Habsi, who joined the team early Monday, did not train. – OFA

Habsi’s arrival, after his FA Cup outing with Wigan, would

Sayyid Khalid confident of Oman making history, lucky winners announced

have lifted the spirits of Omani squad

Times News Service CANBERRA: The Sultanate’s national football team, who are currently training in Australia ahead of their participation in the Asian Cup, are boosted by the arrival of their talismanic captain Ali Al Habsi on Monday.

Frenchman Paul Le Guencoached Omanis were a bit down after being hit with injury concerns followed by a surprise 1-4 loss to China in a friendly match in the run-up to the Asian Cup. Five of the key players suffered severe to minor injuries, the worst case being that of second choice goalkeeper Muhannad Al Zaabi, who had to withdraw from the Asian continent’s soccer showpiece event.

The other injured players were defenders Mohammed Al Musallami, Saad Suhail, Jaber Al Owaisi and experienced forward Qasim Said.

Though Le Guen had already called up Suleiman Al Buraiqi to join the team as third custodian, Monday’s arrival of Ali Al Habsi would have certainly lifted the spirits among the Omani boys.

Ali, who arrived from England after a tough third-round FA Cup assignment with Wigan Athletic against his former club Bolton Wanderers on Saturday, did not take part in Monday’s training session, which began after a pep talk by coach Paul Le Guen.

But Ali’s understudy Mazen Al Kasbi and Suleiman Al Buraiqi underwent rigorous training sessions. Meanwhile, the good news emerging from the Omani camp is the fitness of the injured players.

With the exception of Mohammed Al Musallami, all the players

FAHAD AL MUKRASHI

fahad@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Sayyid Khalid bin Hamad Al Busaidi, the chairman of the Oman Football Association (OFA), said from Canberra that Oman team is capable to compete strongly and make history without being a favourite to win the title at the Asian Cup which kicks off in Australia on January 9.

Sayyid Khalid affirmed that there is no favoritism or sympathy with the French coach Paul Le Guen coach. He also named Qatar team as one of the strong favourites following their triumph in recently held Gulf Cup 22.

Sayyid Khalid said Oman has a clear objective, which is to qualify for the second round in the Asian Cup, despite being in a tough group.

Lucky winners Meanwhile, Oman Football

took part in the training and were seen in good spirits.

It may be mentioned that Al Musallami and Saad Suhail underwent MRI scans on Saturday while Al Awaisi and Qasim Said are reported to have suffered only ‘light injuries’.

Who dares wins Meanwhile, according to news agencies, with hosts Australia in a state of flux and holders Japan engulfed by scandal, the Asian Cup looks to be the most wide open in years.

Redemption for a humiliating 2014 World Cup beckons should Australia, Japan, South Korea or Iran win the Asian Cup, which begins on January 9 when the Socceroos face Kuwait in Melbourne.

CONFIDENT: Sayyid Khalid

bin Hamad Al Busaidi.

TICKETS TO SYDNEY: Two lucky winners receiving their tickets to watch Oman versus Australia match in Sydney on January 13. – OFA

Association (OFA) and their water partner Tanuf announced the names of two lucky winners of all-paid trip to Australia to support the Sultanate’s national football team in their Asian Cup

match against hosts Australia.

The Group A match is scheduled to be played in Sydney on January 13. The two lucky winners — Munir Al Hassani and Saleh Al Tamtami — were selected after

OFA and Tanuf ran a competition for the last two months.

The duo were invited to the OFA Headquarters on Monday where they were handed their prizes by OFA General Secre-

The quartet flopped badly in Brazil as Asia failed to register a single victory for the first time since 1990, a new-look Australia arguably emerging with the most credit.

But coach Ange Postecoglou must find an alchemist’s touch to replace a golden generation of players who qualified for three successive World Cups -- or at the very least, a quick fix with his side short on firepower in attack.

Much of the responsibility will fall on talisman Tim Cahill, who lit up the World Cup with a stunning volley against the Netherlands but will need his supporting cast to step up.

“We have to be ruthless,” the former Everton forward told the Sydney Morning Herald. “If we are

ruthless, teams are not going to know what’s hit them.”

Australia have added incentive after being upset by Japan in the 2011 final in Doha, but the defending champions will be a tough nut to crack, while 2002 World Cup semifinalists South Korea lurk for the hosts in Group A. However, pressure will also be on Japan, whose Mexican coach Javier Aguirre is under investigation following claims of match-fixing while he was manager of Spanish club Zaragoza in 2011.

To what extent the furore unsettles the Blue Samurai remains to be seen but Aguirre, who is scheduled to appear in court in Valencia next month, has raised eyebrows with his team selection since taking over after the World Cup.

Job risk “All my attention is focused on winning the Asian Cup,” Aguirre told reporters before flying to Australia. “I have nothing to hide and understand the media have a job to do, but that is my sole objective.”

Failure at the Asian Cup could end in the termination of his contract, however, although the four-time champions will be expected to comfortably negotiate their first-round group, which also features Jordan, Iraq and war-torn Palestine.

Iraq overcame conflict and turmoil to win the Asian Cup in 2007 but Uzbekistan could prove the best of the rest this time around, with the United Arab Emirates and Qatar also potentially dangerous to the top sides.

(Qadsia SC/KUW), Abdullah Al Buraiki (Kuwait SC/KUW), Abdulaziz Alenezi (Qadsia SC/ KUW), Fahed Al Ebrahim (Qadsia SC/KUW), Sultan Alenezi (Qadsia SC/KUW), Mesaed Alenzi (Al Orouba/KSA), Talal Al Amer (Qadsia SC/KUW), Faisal Alenezi (Salmia SC/KUW), Faisal Zayed Alharbi (Jahra SC/KUW), Bader Al Almotawaa (Qadsia SC/KUW), Khaled Ebrahim Hajiah (Qadsia SC/KUW), Abdulrahman Alshammari (Naser SC/KUW), Yousef Naser Alsulaiman (Kazma SC/KUW), Ali Almaqseed (Arabi SC/QAT), Nawaf Al Khaldi (Qadsia SC/ KUW), Hameed Youssef (Arabi SC/QAT)

Mohsin Al Khaldi (Saham/OMA), Said Al Razaiqi ( Nahda/OMA)

(Al Shabab/KSA), Saeed Almuwallad (Al Ahli/ KSA), Osama Hawsawi (Al Ahli/KSA), Abdulla Aldossary (Al Hilal/KSA), Omar Howsawi (Al Nassr/KSA), Mustafa Albassas (Al Ahli/ KSA), Salman Alfaraj (Al Hilal/KSA), Yahia Alshehri (Al Nassr/KSA), Naif Hazazi (Al Shabab/KSA), Mohammed Al Sahlawi (Al Nassr/KSA), Waleed Bakshwn (Al Ahli/KSA), Hassan Muath Fallatah (Al Shabab/KSA), Yasir Alshahrani (Al Hilal/KSA), Saud Kariri (Al Hilal/KSA), Nassir Al Shamrani (Al Hilal/ KSA), Motaz Hawsawi (Al Ahli/KSA), Taiseer Al Jassam Al Ahli/KSA), Salem Aldawsari (Al Hilal/KSA), Fhad Almuwallad (Al Ittihad/ KSA), Nawaf Alabid (Al Hilal/KSA), Abdullah Alsdairy (Al Hilal/KSA), Abdullah Alenezi (Al Nassr/KSA), Majed Almarshadi (Al Shabab/KSA)

tary Sultan Al Zadjali and Tanuf Managing Director John Pugh.

The prizes included flight tickets, hotel accommodation and match tickets besides free water for a year.

But with no outright tournament favourite, the title could come down to which team has the courage to abandon caution and take risks. South Korea last lifted the trophy in 1960 — the year Muhammad Ali, then Cassius Clay, won Olympic boxing gold — and will be hoping that the success of their Under-23 side in winning last year’s Asian Games rubs off on the senior team, despite their own lack of cutting edge.

Iran, led by former Portugal and Real Madrid coach Carlos Queiroz, will also be looking to make an impact after a disappointing World Cup, but the three-time Asian champions have struggled to fill the void left by the likes of Ali Karimi, Mehdi Mahdavikia and record goalscorer Ali Daei.

2015 ASIAN CUP — GROUP A AND GROUP B

Groups A and B, team details and squad lists for the Asian Cup football tournament starting in Melbourne on Friday: Group A: Australia, S. Korea, Kuwait, Oman Group B: Uzbekistan, S. Arabia, China, N. Korea GROUP A AUSTRALIA Coach: Ange Postecoglou (AUS) Captain: Mile Jedinak Best Asian Cup result: Runners-up (2011) Squad (numerical order): Mathew Ryan (Club Brugge/BEL), Ivan Franjic (Torpedo Moscow/ RUS), Jason Davidson (West Bromwich Albion/ENG, Tim Cahill (NY Red Bulls/USA), Mark Milligan (Melbourne Victory/AUS), Matthew Spiranovic (Western Sydney Wanderers/ AUS), Mathew Leckie (FC Ingolstadt 04/GER), Chris Herd (Aston Villa/ENG), Tomi Juric (Western Sydney Wanderers/AUS), Robbie Kruse (Bayer Leverkusen/GER), Tom Oar (FC Utrecht/NED), Mitchell Langerak (Borussia Dortmund/GER), Aziz Behich (Bursaspor/ TUR), James Troisi (S.V. Zulte Waregem/BEL), Mile Jedinak (Crystal Palace/ENG), Nathan Burns (Wellington Phoenix/NZL), Matt McKay (Brisbane Roar/AUS), Eugene Galekovic (Adelaide United/AUS), Terry Antonis (Sydney FC/AUS), Trent Sainsbury (PEC Zwolle/NED), Massimo Luongo (Swindon Town/ENG), Alex Wilkinson (Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors/KOR), Mark Bresciano (Al Gharafa/QAT) SOUTH KOREA Coach: Uli Stielike (GER)

Captain: Ki Sung-Yueng Best Asian Cup result: Winners (1956, 1960) Squad (numerical order): Jung Sung-Ryong (Suwon Samsung Bluewings/KOR), Kim Chang-Soo (Kashiwa Reysol/JPN), Kim Jin-Su (TSG 1899 Hoffenheim/GER), Kim Ju-Young (FC Seoul/KOR), Kwak Tae-Hwi (Al Hilal/ KSA), Park Joo-Ho (FSV Mainz 05/GER), Son Heung-Min (Bayer Leverkusen/GER), Kim Min-Woo (Sagan Tosu/JPN), Cho Young-Cheol (Qatar SC/QAT), Nam Tae-Hee (Lekhwiya SC/ QAT), Lee Keun-Ho (Al Jaish SC/QAT), Han Kyo-Won (Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors/KOR), Koo Ja-Cheol (FSV Mainz 05/GER), Han KookYoung (Qatar SC/QAT), Lee Myung-Joo (Al Ain/ UAE), Ki Sung-Yueng (Swansea City/WAL), Lee Chung-Yong (Bolton Wanderers/ENG), Lee Jeong-Hyeop (Sangju Sangmu/KOR), Kim Young-Gwon (Guangzhou Evergrande/CHN), Jang Hyun-Soo (Guangzhou R&F/CHN), Kim Seung-Gyu (Ulsan Hyundai/KOR), Cha Du-Ri (FC Seoul/KOR), Kim Jin-Hyeon (Cerezo Osaka/JPN) KUWAIT Coach: Nabil Maaloul (TUN) Captain: Nawaf Al Khaldi Best Asian Cup result: Winners (1980) Squad (numerical order): Khaled Al Rashidi (Salmia SC/KUW), Amer Almatoug Alfadhel (Qadsia SC/KUW), Fahad Awad Shaheen (Kuwait SC/KUW), Ali Hussain Fadhel (Al Wahda/ UAE), Fahad Alhajeri (Salmia SC/KUW), Khaled Alqahtani (Qadsia SC/KUW), Talal Alfadhel (Kazma SC/KUW), Saleh Sheikh Alhendi

OMAN Coach: Paul Le Guen (FRA) Captain: Ali Al Habsi Best Asian Cup result: Group stage (2004, 2007) Squad (numerical order): Ali Al Habsi (Wigan Athletic/ENG), Mohammed Al Musalami (Fanja/ OMA), Jaber Al Owaisi (Al Shabab/OMA), Ali Hilal Al Jabri (Fanja/OMA), Nasser Al Shamli (Al Orouba/OMA), Raed Saleh (Fanja/OMA), Mohamed Ali Siyabi (Al Shabab/OMA), Eid Al Farsi (Al Orouba/OMA), Abdul Aziz Al Maqbali (Fanja/OMA), Qasim Said (Al Nasr/OMA), Amir Al Shatri (AlNasr/OMA), Ahmed Mubarak (Al Orouba/OMA), Abdul Sallam Al Mukhaini (Al Orouba/OMA), Yaqoob Al Qasmi (Saham/OMA), Ali Salim Al Nahar (Dhofar/OMA), Ali Sulaiman Al Busaidi (Al Nahda/OMA), Hassan Madhafar Al Gheilani (Al Orouba/OMA), Mazin Al Kasbi (Fanja/OMA), Ahmed Saleem Al Mukhaini (Al Orouba/OMA), Imad Al Hosni (Saham/OMA),

GROUP B UZBEKISTAN Coach: Mirdjalal Kasimov (UZB) Captain: Server Djeparov Best Asian Cup result: Fourth (2011) Squad (numerical order): Eldorbek Suyunov (Nasaf/UZB), Egor Krimets (Pakhtakor/UZB), Shavkatjon Mulladjanov (Lokomotiv/UZB), Sardor Rashidov (Bunyodkor/UZB), Anzur Ismailov (Changchun Yatai/CHN), Bakhodir Nasimov (Padideh/IRI), Azizbek Haydarov (Al Shabab/UAE), Server Djeparov (Seongnam/ KOR), Odil Akhmedov (Krasnodar/RUS), Jamshid Iskanderov (Pakhtakor/UZB), Igor Sergeev (Pakhtakor/UZB), Ignatiy Nesterov (Lokomotiv/UZB), Lutfulla Turaev (Lokomotiv/UZB), Shukhrat Mukhammadiev (Nasaf/ UZB), Jasur Khasanov (Lokomotiv/UZB), Vokhid Shodiev (Bunyodkor/UZB), Sanjar Tursunov (Vorskla/UKR), Timur Kapadze (Aktobe/KAZ), Vitaliy Denisov (Lokomotiv Moscow/RUS), Islom Tukhtakhujaev (Lokomotiv/UZB), Akbar Turaev (Bunyodkor/ UZB), Farrukh Sayfiev (Nasaf/UZB), Akmal Shorakhmedov (Bunyodkor/UZB) SAUDI ARABIA Coach: Cosmin Olaroiu (ROU) Captain: Saud Kariri Best Asian Cup result: Winners (1984, 1988, 1996) Squad (numerical order): Waleed Abdullah

CHINA Coach: Alain Perrin (FRA) Captain: Zheng Zhi Best Asian Cup result: Runners-up (1984, 2004) Squad (numerical order): Zeng Cheng (Guangzhou Evergrande/CHN), Ren Hang (Jiangsu Sainty/CHN), Mei Fang (Guangzhou Evergrande/CHN), Jiang Zhipeng (Guangzhou R&F/CHN), Zhang Linpeng (Guangzhou Evergrande/CHN), Li Ang (Jiangsu Sainty/ CHN), Wu Lei (Shanghai East Asia/CHN),) Cai Huikang (Shanghai East Asia/CHN), Yang Xu (Changchun Yatai/CHN), Zheng Zhi (Guangzhou Evergrande/CHN), Hao Junmin (Shandong Luneng/CHN), Yan Junling (Shang-

hai East Asia), Liu Jianye (Jiangsu Sainty/ CHN), Ji Xiang (Jiangsu Sainty/CHN), Wu Xi (Jiangsu Sainty/CHN), Sun Ke (Jiangsu Sainty/ CHN), Zhang Chengdong (Beijing Guoan/ CHN), Gao Lin (Guangzhou Evergrande/ CHN), Liu Binbin (Shandong Luneng/CHN), Yu Hanchao (Guangzhou Evergrande/CHN), Yu Hai (Guizhou Renhe/CHN), Liao Lisheng (Guangzhou Evergrande/CHN), Wang Dalei (Shandong Luneng/CHN) NORTH KOREA Coach: Jo Tong-Sop (PRK) Captain: Ri Myong-Guk Best Asian Cup result: Fourth (1980) Squad (numerical order): Ri Myong-Guk (Pyongyang FC/PRK), Ri Chang-Ho (Rimyongsu FC/PRK), Jang Song-Hyok (Rimyongsu FC/ PRK), Jon Kwang-Ik (Amroksang FC/PRK), Han Song-Hyok (Rimyongsu FC/PRK), Ro Hak-Su (Rimyongsu FC/PRK), Ri Sang-Chol (Rimyongsu FC/PRK), Ryang Yong-Gi (Vegalta Sendai/JPN), Pak Song-Chol (Rimyongsu FC/ PRK), Pak Kwang-Ryong (FC Basel/SUI), Jong Il-Gwan (Rimyongsu FC/PRK), Om Chol-Song (4.25 FC/PRK), Sim Hyon-Jin (4.25 FC/PRK), Kye Song-Hyok (4.25 FC/PRK), Jang Kuk-Chol (Hwaebul FC/PRK), Cha Jong-Hyok (FC Wil 1900/SUI), So Hyon-Uk (4.25 FC/PRK), Ri Kwang-Il (4.25 FC/PRK), Ri Yong-Jik (Tokushima Vortis/JPN), Choe Won (Hwaebul FC/PRK), O Hyok-Chol (4.25 FC/PRK), Ju Kwang-Min (Rimyongsu FC/PRK). — AFP

z To be continued

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TU ESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015

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India’s aggressive Kohli promises analytical and positive approach The 26-year-old has again been thrust into the leadership role for the fourth and final Test in Sydney, which starts on Tuesday, after Dhoni unexpectedly called time on his Test career following the draw in Melbourne

SYDNEY: Thrust back into the India captaincy after Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s shock decision to retire from tests last week, Virat Kohli hopes to put right some of the mistakes he made in his first match in charge against Australia.

The aggressive right-handed batsman had deputised in the injured Dhoni’s absence in the first Test in Adelaide, which India lost by 48 runs.

The 26-year-old has again been thrust into the leadership role for the fourth and final Test in Sydney, which starts on Tuesday, after Mahendra Singh Dhoni unexpectedly called time on his Test career following the drawn third match in Melbourne.

“There were quite a few things that I sat down and analysed in Adelaide that can be improved on and I’ve thought about them in the past few days,” Kohli told reporters at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday.

“What are the things that I can correct from Adelaide, the mistakes I made in that game?

“Hopefully I’ll get those right and try to make the right decisions in every situation out there in the middle.”

Australia have already won the series, rescheduled after the death of Phillip Hughes, after taking the first two games in Adelaide and Brisbane.

“Dhoni’s decision to retire had come as a shock to people inside and outside the team,” said Kohli.

“We were all taken aback by his decision because it was so sudden,” Kohli added. “We had no clue. We never saw it coming, so it was pretty shocking.”

Dhoni’s run as captain in overseas Test cricket has been marred by his team’s inability to take 20 wickets.

It is the singular reason for this recent poor record and has evolved in this calendar year as India’s inability to grab their chances and latch on to moments that could win them a Test match Given the thankless nature of this job, Kohli will perhaps soon realise that his bat might not always be the answer to all his problems.

The hot-headed Kohli has been involved in a running verbal battle with several Australian players during the series, though his chief target, Mitchell Johnson, has been ruled out of the Sydney match with a slight hamstring injury.

Kohli said he had hoped that some of Dhoni’s calm demean-

our had rubbed off on him a little bit, though he would continue his aggressive approach on the field and encourage his team mates to play positively.

“There’s so much to learn from him, especially in tough situations.

His composure, his decision making at important times.

“These are the things which are priceless, any captain would love to have them. I hope I can be as calm as him, but everyone has different styles.

“It’s important for the players to know that we need to be in a positive frame of mind, a line doesn’t need to be crossed.

“But we are not here to back down from any sort of confrontation or any sort of battle.” - Reuters

TALKING STRATEGIES: India’s coach Duncan Fletcher, left, chats with captain Virat Kohli, right, during cricket training at the Sydney

Cricket Ground. – AFP

Hughes plaque a reminder for Aussies at Sydney Test SYDNEY: The memory of batsman Phillip Hughes will linger over the Australian cricketers in this week’s poignant final Test against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) where he fell. A plaque honouring Hughes was installed outside the home dressing room at the SCG on Monday.

It means skipper Steve Smith and his team will be faced with a reminder of Hughes’s shock death at the famous venue every time they take the field in the Test that begins Tuesday.

“Particularly this week, it’s going to be great to be able to walk past that and see the little fella there and give us a bit of inspiration as we’re going out on the field,” Smith said on Monday, eve of the fourth Test.

“Hughesy was one of us, he was one of our good mates.

We’ve just got to take care of each other this week.”

Smith said it will be important for the players to keep each of their team-mates in good spirits.

REMEMBERING HUGHES: A plaque remembering the late Australian cricket batsman Phillip Hughes is carried to the Member’s Stand at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) to be mounted on a wall, in Sydney. Hughes was struck on the head by a bouncer during a Sheffield Shield match on November 25, 2014, and died two days later. – AFP

Emotional Test “It’s going to be another emotional Test match and hopefully we can do the Hughes family proud by playing well this week,” he said.

The occasion will be chal-

lenging for the entire team and their support staff.

But it will be especially taxing for Shane Watson, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Brad Haddin and David Warner, who were

all fielding on November 25 at the SCG when Hughes, 25, was fatally struck by a bouncer.

“Coming back to the place where it happened, I thought it was going to be extremely tough

for the boys,” Smith said.

“Particularly the ones that were out there on the day.

“It’s going to be a tough Test match ... hopefully we can hold our emotions together well and

end this series well.”

Hughes’s family are expected to attend. “We’ve just got to make sure we’re very respectful to the Hughes family who are going to be down here for this Test match,” Smith said Warner, who was fielding close to Hughes and then held his mate’s hand as he was carried off in a critical condition, says he won’t know how he will react until he walks out on to the field for the pre-match anthems.

“It’s going to be tough but I’ve got to try and hold back the emotions and do what I do for the team and try and score runs,” Warner said this week.

“But every time I come here, every time I walk out on the field, every time I’ve got nothing on my mind I’m going to be thinking about it.”

India skipper Virat Kohli, who was also close to Hughes, said he “couldn’t really imagine what the family must feel like coming to this Test match”.

“It is going to be a strange feeling, stepping on to the field knowing that the incident happened on this very ground,” Kohli said.

“As the game starts, hopefully we can not think about it and get on with the sport which the two teams have done really well in this series.” - AFP

T U E S DAY, JAN UARY 6, 2 0 1 5

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SPORTS SYDNEY TEST

Starc replaces Johnson for final Test SYDNEY: Australia replaced injured Mitchell Johnson with another left-arm paceman Mitchell Starc Monday in their only change for this week’s fourth and final Test against India.

Skipper Steve Smith said Johnson, who has a hamstring strain, would “probably” have played at the Sydney Cricket Ground match beginning Tuesday had the four-Test series been in the balance.

“I think there’s no secret there’s a pretty big summer coming up,” Smith said. “We want him to be fresh for the onedayers and World Cup coming up. We don’t want to risk him.”

Johnson, 33, who bowled long spells during the first three Tests against India, had some right hamstring soreness during the Boxing Day Test and had not fully recovered since then, CA physiotherapist Alex Kountouris said on Sunday.

Starc’s confirmation in the team puts him ahead of paceman Peter Siddle and secondchoice spinner Ashton Agar, who had been included in the squad. Australia regained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy last week after India hung on for a tense draw in the third Test in Melbourne. Australia won the first two Tests in Adelaide and Brisbane.

Smith was forthright when asked if he expected the niggle between the two sides to taper off this week. “It’s still another Test match for us, we’ll be looking to win,” Smith said.

“We’re still going to play that aggressive brand of cricket that we’ve been playing the whole summer. “I don’t think we’re going to change anything.”

Shane Watson was too ill to bat in the nets on Sunday, but he bowled and batted on Monday.

The allrounder was named in the starting eleven and is expected to play on Tuesday. “I spoke to him last night. He said he was feeling better,” Smith said.

Having already sealed a series win, Smith added he would be “a bit more aggressive” regarding potential declarations at the SCG. Australia set the tourists a 384-run victory target off just 70 overs on the final day in Melbourne, after batting throughout the morning session and declaring at lunchtime.

The match finished in a draw with India on 174 for six.

Smith was questioned about his declaration call at his postmatch press conference and said: “We really didn’t want to give India a sniff (of victory).” - AFP

Gritty Williamson fights to keep New Zealand alive New Zealand were 253-5 at stumps, a 118-run advantage with five wickets in hand, after the stubborn WilliamsonWatling partnership recovered the innings from a perilous 159-5

WELLINGTON: Kane Williamson and BJ Watling produced an unbroken sixth wicket stand of 94 to keep New Zealand alive on the third day of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Wellington on Monday.

New Zealand were 253-5 at stumps, a 118-run advantage with five wickets in hand, after the stubborn Williamson-Watling partnership recovered the innings from a perilous 159-5.

Williamson was on 80, in sight of his ninth Test century, and Watling was on 48, nearing his ninth half century, giving New Zealand confidence a lead of 200 could be enough. “If these guys can keep going for another hour or two hours it’s going to set us up quite nicely,” opener Tom Latham said.

“I think 200 is a reasonably tough chase on the last day. The wicket’s only going to get a bit harder. The ball’s only going to turn more in the next couple of days and whatever we get hopefully we can defend it.”

However, despite their dogged fight, the odds remained in favour of Sri Lanka pulling off a serieslevelling win after losing the first

SATISFYING DAY: New Zealand’s BJ Watling, right, and teammate Kane Williamson walk from the field at the end of play on Day Three of the second international Test cricket match against Sri Lanka at the Basin Reserve in Wellington. – AFP

Test in Christchurch by eight wickets. For New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum, returning to the Basin Reserve for the first time since his match-saving 302 against India a year ago, there were to be no heroics this time.

He was out for 22 while Jimmy Neesham, who scored a century in the India Test, was out for 19.

After McCullum’s departure it fell to Williamson to shoulder responsibility for keeping New Zealand afloat. He was dropped on 29 and again on 60 in an otherwise cautious innings in which the partnership has seen off the second new ball and ensured the Test should extend deep into the fourth day at least.

New Zealand had ended the first day of the Test in charge after making 221 on a bowler’s wicket and reducing Sri Lanka to 78-5 in reply.

Kumar Sangakkara’s imperi-

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ous 203 on the second day led Sri Lanka to a 135-run first innings lead and gave the tourists the advantage.

Openers Latham and Hamish Rutherford started the New Zealand second innings positively, reaching 75 before their reply was ripped apart in a 30-ball burst that claimed three wickets.

Rutherford could not resist slashing wildly during a barrage of short deliveries outside off and was caught in the third-man trap.

His dismissal unsettled Latham who shuffled around for a few more overs before being caught behind to give Nuwan Pradeep a sec-

SCOREBOARD

New Zealand 1st innings 221 (K. Williamson 69; N. Pradeep 4-63, S. Lakmal 3-71) Sri Lanka 1st innings 356 (K. Sangakkara 203, D. Chandimal 67; J. Neesham 3-42, D. Bracewell 3-93) New Zealand 2nd innings (overnight 22-0) T. Latham c Jayawardene b Pradeep 35 H. Rutherford c Chandimal b Pradeep 40 K. Williamson not out 80 R. Taylor b Herath 0 B. McCullum lbw Prasad 22 J. Neesham lbw Pradeep 19 B. Watling not out 48

ond wicket. Ross Taylor lasted just seven balls before he was bowled

by Rangana Herath.

From 75 without loss New Zealand were quickly 79-3 with the fourth and fifth wickets of McCullum and Neesham following

Extras (lb-6, w-2, nb-1) 9 Total (five wickets, 101 overs) 253 Fall of wickets: 1-75 (Rutherford), 2-78 (Latham), 3-79 (Taylor), 4-122 (McCullum), 5-159 (Neesham) Bowling: Lakmal 20-2-50-0 (1w), Pradeep 19-3-57-3 (1w), Herath 32-8-58-1, Prasad 19-1-53-1 (1nb), Mathews 11-3-29-0 Toss: Sri Lanka Umpires: Steve Davis (AUS), Richard Illingworth (ENG) TV umpire: Bruce Oxenford (AUS) Match referee: Chris Broad (ENG)

at 122 and 159. Pradeep, who was omitted from the Sri Lanka line up in the first Test, showed he should not be overlooked on New Zealand wickets with three for 57 to go with his career best 63-4 in the first innings. - AFP

CRICKET

Anderson tells England to move on from Cook LONDON: England must forget about former captain Alastair Cook as they begin preparations for the World Cup, fast bowler James Anderson said in a British newspaper interview published on Monday.

Test skipper Cook lost his oneday role in December following a run of five straight defeats, with Eoin Morgan being handed the responsibility of leading the team at

the World Cup in Australia, which starts on February 14.

Anderson admitted he was “gutted” about Cook’s dismissal, but said that England cannot afford to waste time worrying about the past as the tournament looms into view. “I’m gutted for my mate.

However, as brutal or heartless as it may sound, I can’t go to Australia worrying about how Cooky is feeling or wishing he was with us,”

Anderson told The Sun. “My only consideration is to focus on helping the team in the Tri-series with Australia and India and then the World Cup that follows.”

He added: “Cooky has a couple of months now to try and get over the disappointment. I’m sure it will be hard watching the guys playing in the World Cup on TV, but he must look forward to the Test matches in 2015.” - AFP

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TU ESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015

SPORTS Debutant Harmer and Steyn spark West Indies collapse

TENNIS

ISC to host junior open tourney from January 20

SCOREBOARD

The West Indies collapsed from 182 for three to 215 all out. South Africa, needing 124 to win, were nine for one at the close

CAPE TOWN: Marlon Samuels played one big shot too many and opened the way for a West Indian collapse on the fourth day of the third and final Test against South Africa at Newlands on Monday.

The West Indies collapsed from 182 for three to 215 all out, losing seven wickets for 33 runs in 15 overs.

South Africa were left needing 124 to win. They were nine for one at the close after Alviro Petersen was bowled by Suleiman Benn in the last over of an extended afternoon’s play, following a lengthy rain delay.

Samuels made 74, sharing partnerships of 68 with Leon Johnson (44) and Shivnarine Chanderpaul (50) before holing out to long-on against off-spinner Simon Harmer.

Samuels, who said after making a century in the second Test in

THREE FOR: South Africa’s Dale Steyn, left, celebrates after dimissing West Indies captain Denesh Ramdin during the fourth day of their third Test match at Newlands in Cape Town on Monday. – AFP

Port Elizabeth that he didn’t like to be dominated by spin bowlers, was highly aggressive against the debutant Harmer.

He faced 150 balls in making his 74 but hit 46 off 47 deliveries from the off-spinner. The assault included two sixes, one of them over a fielder at long-on.

But South African captain Hashim Amla persisted with Harmer, who switched ends.

Samuels went down the pitch and

hit the ball high towards long-on.

The ball held up just enough into the wind for Dean Elgar to make a good running catch close to the boundary.

The breakthrough achieved, Amla brought back Dale Steyn, who produced a superb spell of fast reverse swing bowling. He bowled Jermaine Blackwood with a ball which swung in and then straightened to hit the off stump, and had Denesh Ramdin caught at square leg.

Harmer picked up two more wickets, with Jason Holder chipping to midwicket and Jerome Taylor hitting recklessly to deep midwicket. Steyn had Benn caught behind and Chanderpaul was run out by a direct hit from Temba Bavuma at backward point to complete a disastrous late afternoon for the tourists on a day when rain threatened to prevent any play.

Rain fell from early morning and continued until after lunch.

West Indies 1st innings: 329 South Africa 1st innings: 421 West Indies 2nd innings K. Brathwaite b Harmer 16 D. Smith c De Villiers b Morkel 7 L. Johnson c Amla b Morkel 44 M. Samuels c Elgar b Harmer 74 S. Chanderpaul run out 50 J. Blackwood b Steyn 13 D. Ramdin c Harmer b Steyn 0 J. Holder c Amla b Harmer 2 J. Taylor c Elgar b Harmer 0 S. Benn c De Villiers b Steyn 0 S. Gabriel not out 2 Extras (b-4, lb-3) 7 Total (all out, 79.5 overs) 215 Fall of wickets: 1-23, 2-27, 3-95, 4-182, 5-202, 6-204, 7-213, 8-213, 9-213.

Bowling: Steyn 23.5-3-75-3, Philander 16-4-27-0, Morkel 14-7-18-2, Harmer 247-82-4, Van Zyl 2-0-6-0 South Africa 2nd innings D. Elgar not out 5 A. Petersen b Benn 0 Extras (b-4) 4 Total (1 wkt, 2.3 overs) 9 Fall of wicket: 1-9.

Bowling: Taylor 1-0-1-0, Samuels 1-0-4-0, Benn 0.3-0-0-1

But the weather cleared and play resumed at 3 p.m. South African time, with a potential 53 overs to be bowled, all in one session. As it was, play stretched until 7 p.m.

Steyn finished with three for 75, while Harmer completed a highly successful debut with four for 82.

Both bowlers had match figures of seven for 153. - AFP

ICC WORLD CUP

Porterfield and O’Brien brothers carry Irish hopes

MUSCAT: Junior tennis players of all nationalities residing in Oman get another opportunity to take centrestage at the much-awaited ISC Open Junior Tennis Tournament organised by the Indian Social Club (ISC) Muscat.

In its continued endeavour to promote tennis and give budding players in Oman a platform to showcase their talent, the ISC is organising the ISC/ Muscat Pharmacy Open Junior Tennis Tournament from January 20 at the club’s tennis court in Darsait.

Seeing the popularity of tennis and the successful tournaments that the ISC has organised over the years, Muscat Pharmacy together with brands Pocari Sweat and Horlicks have come forward to sponsor this tournament exclusively for the juniors for the third year running.

The tournament is cosponsored by Supa Sportsman LLC and Khimji Ramdas Watches Division.

A press note from the organisers said that the tournament is open to players of all nationalities, Omanis as well as expatriates residing in Oman.

The tournament will include singles for boys and girls in the under-10, under-12, under-14 and under-18 years age group as well as a junior doubles event.

The deadline for submission of entries is set for 8.00 pm on January 15. For further details contact the Indian Social Club in Darsait (Tel. 24701347 or 24797921) from 11.00 a.m. to 11.00 p.m.

CRICKET

DUBLIN: Experienced campaigners William Porterfield and brothers Kevin and Niall O’Brien were on Monday named at the core of Ireland’s squad for the World Cup. The trio, along with Ed Joyce and John Mooney, will be playing at their third World Cup while the 15-man squad also includes six tournament debutants — Andrew Balbirnie, Peter Chase, Andrew McBrine, Tim Murtagh, Stuart Thompson, and Craig Young.

“It’s fantastic to be leading Ire-

land in another global tournament,” said captain Porterfield, one of a number of players in the squad who earns his living in the English county championship.

“We’ve produced some wonderful performances over the years in World Cups, and there’s no reason why we can’t claim further successes in Australia and New Zealand.

“While we may have lost the surprise factor over the years, we’ve certainly gained a lot of respect

for our brand of cricket which has been pretty pleasing.

The Warwickshire batsman told the Irish Post: “There’s a great mix as always in the squad, and the younger guys coming through are all hungry which keeps the more experienced players on their toes.

Competition for places has been fierce and that’s got to be good for Irish cricket.”

Ireland kick off their campaign on February 16 against West Indies in Nelson before going on

to face South Africa, Zimbabwe, India, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates in their Pool B campaign.

Kevin O’Brien made history at the 2011 event in India when he hit the fastest-ever World Cup century against England in a stunning win in Bangalore.

Ireland, coached by former West Indies star Phil Simmons, are due to play four one-day internationals in the United Arab Emirates against fellow-qualifiers

Afghanistan and Scotland, before flying out to Australia at the end of January.

The World Cup is being played in Australia and New Zealand from February 14 to March 29.

The squad: William Porterfield (captain), Andrew Balbirnie, Peter Chase, Alex Cusack, George Dockrell, Ed Joyce, Andrew McBrine, John Mooney, Tim Murtagh, Kevin O’Brien, Niall O’Brien, Paul Stirling, Stuart Thompson, Gary Wilson, Craig Young. - AFP

Yuvraj still in the frame for World Cup MUMBAI: The out-of-favour Yuvraj Singh’s brilliant domestic form will weigh on the selectors when they meet here on Tuesday to pick the squads for the ODI tri-series against Australia and England besides the World Cup next month.

Yuvraj, who was not picked even in the preliminary list of 30 probables on December 4 last, has since come back into contention by striking three back-to-back hundreds against Haryana, Maharashtra and Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy.

The hard-hitting left-hander, significantly the man of the 2011 World Cup that was won

by India and scorer of over 8000 runs from 293 ODIs, also got among the wickets with his leftarm spin on the placid track in the match at Rajkot.

With there being a question mark over Ravindra Jadeja, undergoing rehabilitation for his throwing shoulder currently, Yuvraj would weigh significantly on the selectors’ mind while choosing the Cup squad.

There is another player of similar style who is almost certain to be picked, Gujarat’s Axar Patel, already in Australia as a late replacement for Jadeja.

It will all boil down to whether the selectors, as well as captain Dhoni and coach Duncan Fletcher, who will be on conference call from Australia, feel it makes sense in putting the clock back on Yuvraj — a proven customer in the shorter formats of the game. - PTI

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B DIVISION: ISC team pose for a group photo after their win over Renaissance.

C5

SPORTS

F DIVISION: Atkins celebrate their victory over Oasis. – Supplied photos

NYDT impress in defeat to Muscat CT good for an unbeaten 78-run partnership. Ateef made 33 and Asgar 44. Earlier, opener Pushparaj Manoharan contributed 28.

Muscat CT put up a

Brief scores: Oasis Water 142 for 8 in 20 overs (Kannan 42, Ratheesh 32, Ajayan 3/16) lost to Atkins 146 for 4 in 17.1 overs (Asgar 44 n.o., Ateef 33 n.o., Pushparaj 28).

mammoth total of 310 runs for five wickets in 50 overs. In reply, NYDT lasted full 50 overs though they were restricted to 177

Jatinder Singh

Gayash Dias

Parth Trivedi

Hillary and Anumodh

quick 46 in 28 balls with six hits to the rope and two over it. Jaspreet Singh and Mohammed Ali Akbar picked up two wickets each for the NYDT team.

In response, after the loss of the first wicket with just three runs on the board, opener Parth Trivedi and one drop bat Gayash Priyashan Dias stood firm for a superb 126-run partnership, the highest partnership for their side, in which the latter played a more supporting role and scored 26 before being dismissed.

Parth played a highly matured and chanceless innings and teased the bowlers with his defence until he was dismissed for 96, a score that earned him the man of the match award.

NYDT were restricted to 177 for eight in the 50 overs to lose the game by 133 runs. Hemal Mehta with figures of three for 20 and VaibhavWategoankar with three for 40 were the two most success-

ful bowlers for Muscat CT.

stand for the second wicket when the former was dismissed for 33 and the latter immediately after that for 30.

Puneet and Ansar Ansari bagged three wickets each to restrict Renaissance to 111 all out in 23.2 overs and to win the game by 68 runs.

overs in which only Khalil Ahmed and Rizwan Afnan contributed 40 and 46 respectively. Srikanth Achari remained unbeaten on 22.

Prabhath Indika scalped four wickets giving away only 18 runs while Dhanut Asanka picked up two to see their side through by 89 runs.

for eight

MUSCAT: Oman Cricket’s newly formed National Youth Development Team (NYDT) gave a tough time to the highly experienced team of Muscat CT by managing to play the full 50 overs with two wickets in hand after having put their opponents to bat first in a Muscat Pharmacy and Storessponsored 50 overs-a-side A Division match.

Muscat CT put up a mammoth total of 310 runs for the loss of five wickets in 50 overs, in which Adnan Ilyas and Jatinder Singh put on a stand of 116 runs when Adnan was dismissed for 87 made in 73 balls, aided by eight boundaries and four sixes.

Jatinder remained unbeaten for the second time in as many matches with a personal score of 117 that included five boundaries and six sixes. Earlier Aaqib Ilyas made a

Brief scores: Muscat CT 310 for 5 in 50 overs (Jatinder 117 n.o., Adnan 87, Aaqib 46, Jaspreet 2/31, Mohd Ali Akbar 2/57) bt NYDT 177 for 8 in 50 overs (Parth 96, Gayash 26, Hemal 3/20, Vaibhav 3/40).

ISC, Sinha CT win In the KhimjiRamdas LLC-sponsored 30 overs-a-side B Division matches, Indian Social Club (ISC) beat Renaissance by 68 runs and Sinha CT got the better of Galfar Engineering in a 89-run win.

Batting first after winning the toss, ISC made 179 in 28.1 overs in which Nishit Punja made 61 runs in 46 balls, Puneet Singh 32 and Amandeep Singh 21. For Renaissance, Tauseef Ahmed picked up three wickets and Chadith Lakmal bagged two.

After the loss of the first wicket early in the innings, Renaissance recovered as ThuwanDeen and Sajith Ahmed put on a 61 runs

FOOTBALL

Adams quits as Norwich manager LONDON: Neil Adams has resigned as manager of Norwich City but will return to work for the club later this year, the English second-tier club announced via Twitter on Monday.

The 49-year-old stands down following Norwich’s 2-0 loss to Preston North End in the FA Cup on Saturday and with the club in seventh place in the Championship, three points below the playoff places.

MOTORSPORT

French F1 driver Beltoise dies at 77 PARIS: Former Formula One driver Jean-Pierre Beltoise, whose biggest win came at the 1972 Monaco Grand Prix, has died from a stroke in Dakar at the age of 77, family sources said on Monday After a successful career in motorbike racing, Frenchman Beltoise switched to four wheels in 1966, eventually joining Ken Tyrrell’s Matra team alongside Jackie Stewart.

He took second place at the 1969 French Grand Prix, but had to wait three years to win his first Grand Prix under the rain at Monaco after his change to the BRM team.

He retired from Formula 1 at the end of the 1974 season.

After retirement, he turned his attention to touring car racing in France.

He twice won the French title for BMW before entering rallycross in an Alpine-Renault with which he won another French title. - AFP

First-team coach Mike Phelan, formerly an assistant to Alex Ferguson at Manchester United, has been placed in temporary charge.

“Norwich City can confirm Neil Adams has resigned as manager with immediate effect. The process of appointing a new manager to take the club forward is already underway,” Norwich said in a statement. “Former Canary winger and successful youth team coach Adams will take a break

from the game before returning to work for the club in July, in a role to be confirmed at a later date.”

Adams succeeded Chris Hughton towards the end of last season, but was unable to prevent Norwich’s relegation from the Premier League.

He said: “I firmly believe we are still on course for a crack at promotion back to the Premier League. That is where this club belongs.” - AFP

Brief cores: ISC 179 all out in 28.1 overs (Nishit 61, Puneet 32, Amandeep 21, Tauseef 3/36, Chadith 2/36) bt Renaissance 111 all out in 23.2 overs (Thuwan 33, Sajeed 30, Ansar 3/16, Puneet 3/17, Amandeep 2/15).

The game between Sinha and Galfar Engineering produced a record breaking first wicket partnership of 138 for the first wicket between Sinha’s openers Rangajeewa Perera (83) and Nalaka Pathum (61). Later Nalinda too made a superb 44 off 23 balls to help their side to score a mammoth 267 for six in 30 overs.

Defending a huge target, Sinha bundled out Galfar for 178 in 24.3

Brief scores: Sinha CT 267 for 6 in 30 overs (Rangajeewa 83, Nalanka 61, Nalinda 44) bt Galfar 178 all out in 24.3 overs (Rizwan 46, Khalil 40, Nadeem 22 n.o., Prabhath 4/18, Dhanut 2/36).

Atkins down Oasis In an F Division game, Atkins won their encounter against Oasis Water by six wickets after containing the latter to 142 for eight in 20 overs. Kannan P and Ratheesh PP made 42 and 32 respectively for Oasis. Ajayan Parambil captured three wickets for Atkins.

In reply, Atkins lost only four wickets while reaching the target with 17 balls to spare in which Ateef Al Balushi and M Asgar stood

MSE edge Al Ansari In an I Division, Mustafa Sultan Enterprises (MSE) overcame Al Ansari by two wickets, despite having been set a huge target of 185. Batting first, Al Ansari openers Sadid Tanwar and Sohail Khan provided a perfect start with a 104-run partnership until the latter was dismissed for 64 made in 38 balls. Sadid was then involved in a third-wicket partnership of 40 runs before being sent back for 76 scored in 46 balls. Sweekrith remained unbeaten on 26 with the score board reading 184 for three in their allotted 20 overs.

MSE, in reply, lost four quick wickets but recovered well to win as Anumodh Nayar played a splendid innings to score 76 in 44 balls.

He also was involved in two stands, the first one for 46 runs with Rajendra Sawant, who made 22, and later with Hillary D Souza. Hillary remained not out on 31 to see his side through with a ball to spare.

Ritesh captured four wickets conceding 35 runs while SajidTanwar picked up two.

Brief scores: Al Ansari 184 for 3 in 20 overs (Sajid 76, Sohail 64, Sweekrith 26 n.o.) lost to MSE 185 for 8 in 19.5 overs (Anumodh 76, Hillary 31 n.o., Rajendra 22, Ritesh 4/35, Sajid 2/21).

C6

TU ESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015

SPORTS CHENNAI OPEN

Gilles Muller survives French challenge CHENNAI: Last year’s finalist Eduard Roger-Vasselin went down fighting to eighth seed Gilles Muller 7-6 (11), 1-6, 6-7 (3) in an entertaining and high quality first round match of the Chennai Open here on Monday.

Muller, the 31-year-old southpaw from Luxembourg and ranked 42, survived two tough tie-breaks, while Roger-Vasselin, after taking the first set, gradually faded against an opponent who improved as the two-hour and 23-minute match progressed.

On the outside court, Spaniard Marcel Granollers became the first casualty as the seventh seed retired against Austrian Andreas Haider-Maurer who was leading 3-6, 7-6 (6), 2-0.

Muller’s enviable variations in his serves besides aggression made the difference while Roger-Vasselin failed to sustain the high standards he had displayed in the first set and parts of the third before committing a double fault on the very first match-point.

“It is always tough in the first match of the new season especially since I hadn’t played a match in the last two months. Eduard is a very competitive player and I am happy to win today,” he said. “In the first set, I was on the backfoot, but in the second, I decided to play aggressively and the early break gave me the confidence. I played well thereafter.”

There was nothing to separate the two in the first set that went with serve leading to the inevitable tie-breaker.

The 31-year old Roger-Vasselin, ranked 116 as against his high of 38 last year, served that bit better in terms of angles while Muller had the power but not the consistency in his first serves. Yet, neither came close to breaking serve as they slugged it out from the baseline.

In the tie-break, Roger-Vasselin blew four set-points as against two by Muller. At 10-10, the Frenchman came up with a forehand to move ahead 11-10.

Roger-Vasselin also earned the next point to pocket the set that lasted a little over an hour.

The second set was rather anti-climatic as Muller came up with three service breaks to push the match into the decider which too went with serve except in the middle when the duo traded a break apiece.

Muller served quite brilliantly in the tie-break to take a 4-1 lead which proved decisive while Roger-Vasselin had no response and eventually lost the match with a double fault. - IANS

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Murray troubled by shoulder pain as Britain beat France Murray is being troubled by a lingering left shoulder problem but had few problems with Paire and won their clash 6-2, 7-5 as Great Britain beat France 2-1 at the Hopman Cup

PERTH: British No. 1 Andy Murray conceded he was being troubled by a lingering left shoulder problem after he opened his Hopman Cup account with a straight-sets win over Frenchman Benoit Paire at the Perth Arena on Monday.

The world No. 6 had few problems with Paire, himself on the comeback trail after injury, and won their clash 6-2, 7-5 as Great Britain beat defending champions France 2-1 at the mixed teams tournament.

Although the French levelled the tie when Alize Cornet thrashed Heather Watson, 6-2, 6-2, the Brits claimed the deciding mixed doubles in a match tiebreak, 6-4, 2-6, 10-8.

Murray suffered from soreness in the shoulder during and after

‘SHOULD BE FINE’: Andy Murray of Britain hits a return against Benoit Paire of France during their

men’s singles match on day two of the Hopman Cup in Perth on Monday. – AFP

his emphatic victory over Rafael Nadal in the season-opening tournament in Dubai last week, which he won when Novak Djokovic forfeited the final.

The dual Grand Slam champion subsequently had a scan which cleared him of any serious problems, however the shoulder again caused him discomfort in the win over Paire.

Just two weeks out from the year’s first Grand Slam, the Australian Open in Melbourne, where he has been a finalist three times, the 27-year-old conceded the pain was causing him concern.

“It is still quite sore,” he said.

“If it was my right shoulder it would probably be quite hard for me to play, I do not feel it on my groundstrokes as much but I feel it when I am serving.

“Maybe it was playing a match (in Abu Dhabi) after having a break or I just got it in the wrong position and tweaked something a little bit, but I should be fine.”

Murray said he would continue to have treatment on the shoulder.

Serena’s ‘miracle’ of coffee Earlier, world No. 1 Serena Williams needed a shot of coffee to

regain her best form during her opening match at the tournament.

Perked up by a cup of coffee at the end of the first set, Williams recovered from a disastrous start to defeat Flavia Penetta as the United States beat Italy 3-0 in their Group A tie.

After Williams gave the Americans the lead, the towering John Isner then secured the tie with a grinding three-set win over Fabio Fognini.

Isner dropped the first set, but fought back to win 5-7, 7-5, 7-6 (7/4) in two hours and 27 minutes.

The Americans then survived two match points to claim the dead

mixed doubles rubber in a match tie-break, 6-2, 2-6, 11-9.

Williams, who will be aiming for her 19th Grand Slam singles title at the Australian Open later this month, had her hands full with 12th-ranked Pennetta in the early stages of her first singles match of the new year.

Pennetta raced through the first set in just 19 minutes, winning 6-0 as a listless Williams made a string of unforced errors.

After the fifth game, a weary Williams asked an amused chair umpire if she was allowed to have an “espresso” coffee delivered to her courtside.

At the end of the set, Williams received the coffee and it had an immediate impact, as she broke the drought by winning the first game of the second set.

Although Pennetta made another two early breaks to lead 3-2 in the second set, Williams then kicked into gear, rattling off the last 10 games of the match in an early-season reminder of her brutal power.

The American won 0-6, 6-3, 6-0 and said she needed something to perk her up, having only arrived in Perth on Saturday.

The 33-year-old praised the “miracle” of coffee after the turnaround. “I am a coffee drinker and I didn’t have mine this morning and I was just feeling it so, I had to get some coffee in me,” she said.

“I told them to just give me a shot of espresso. I asked if it was legal, I was like ‘is it legal to have espresso’ because I never did it before but I needed some espresso and I needed to wake up, it’s the jet lag.” - AFP

B R I S B A N E I N T E R NAT I O NA L

Pliskova spoils Azarenka comeback

Karolina Pliskova

BRISBANE: Czech player Karolina Pliskova spoiled Victoria Azarenka’s comeback bid after an injury-marred 2014, winning a gruelling first-round match at the Brisbane International on Monday.

Pliskova displayed incredible fighting spirit to hold off the former world No. 1 and win the match 4-6, 7-6 (9/7), 6-4 in three-and-aquarter hours.

Azarenka, who won her maiden WTA title in Brisbane in 2009, played only nine tournaments last year after suffering foot and knee injuries. She slipped to a year-end ranking of 32 and entered the season-opening tournament unseeded.

Pliskova, ranked eight places higher at 24, withstood everything Azarenka threw at her, saving two

match points in the 84-minute second set before forcing a decider.

She finished the stronger of the two, breaking Azarenka in the ninth game of the third set to serve for the match at 5-4.

Azarenka refused to give in and had three chances to break straight back. But Pliskova saved them all, eventually clinching victory when a tired-looking Azarenka forehand sailed wide. Germany’s Angelique Kerber ended a run of defeats by the seeded players when she downed Frenchwoman Caroline Garcia in straight games 6-4, 6-3.

Fourth-seeded Slovakian Dominika Cibulkova had earlier crashed out to American Madison Keys 7-5, 6-2, joining fellow seeds Andrea Petkovic (5) and Jelena

Jankovic (6) as first-round losers.

Eighth seed Garbine Muguruza of Spain was forced to withdraw from the tournament on Monday with a left ankle injury.

There were no such problems for Kerber, who had too much firepower for her French opponent, wrapping up the match in a shade under 90 minutes.

Kerber broke Garcia once in the first set and three times in the second to set up a second-round clash against Australian-based Russian qualifier Daria Gavrilova.

Keys has now beaten Cibulkova in all three of their meetings and said she was well-suited to the diminutive Slovakian’s style.

“I think it’s just one of those things where (players) just kind of

match up a certain way,” she said.

“I definitely usually play my best against her since she’s such a great player, so I always go in knowing she’s going to get a ton of balls back and I’m going to have to play my absolute best.”

In the men’s draw, Australian young guns James Duckworth and Thanasi Kokkinakis both cruised to upset wins over higher-ranked French opponents.

Duckworth, 22, smashed sixth seed Gilles Simon 6-2, 6-2 at the Pat Rafter Arena before 18-year-old Kokkinakis downed Julien Benneteau, the eighth seed, 6-4, 6-3.

There was some good news for the French, however, with Jeremy Chardy beating Kazakhstan’s Andrey Golubev 6-4, 6-4. - AFP ‘TRY EVERYTHING’

YOUR BIGGEST ROAD HAZARD IS IN YOUR HAND A TIMES OF OMAN HANDS-FREE DRIVING INITIATIVE

Radwanska aims for Grand Slams with Navratilova PERTH: Polish world No. 5 Agnieszka Radwanska said Monday she hopes her new partnership with women’s tennis great Martina Navratilova can finally bring the maiden Grand Slam title she craves.

Radwanska recently joined forces with the 18-time Grand Slam singles winner to prepare for 2015 in a bid to end her frustrating run in the majors.

Although the 25-year-old has been ranked as high as second in the world, she has only reached one Grand Slam final, at Wimbledon in 2012 when she was beaten by Serena Williams.

Last year she appeared to be on target to break through when she reached the semifinals at the Australian Open, only to be upset by Dominika Cibulkova.

Speaking in Perth, Radwanska said the union was already paying dividends after a week on the practice court together in Miami. “I am very happy she is a member of the team and I was in Miami before here so we practise together,” Radwanska said.

“She is coming to Sydney and Melbourne of course, so far so good and we will see how it is going to be. Grand Slams — I didn’t make it yet — so I’m trying everything to win those slams.... With that I think she can help me out a lot.

“We are going to try everything.” - AFP

C

L IFE & S TYLE LIFE STYLE

SECTION

O

ne big argument for “all you can eat” music, video and book services is that they encourage people to sample new artists and ultimately dev elop a deeper relationship with a few of them. You listen to songs you have never heard before because the re is

just begun their careers, see little to lose. They are trying to move up the food chain, while established writers have been trying not to move down it.

Indie writers, despite their name, must rely to a greater

no additional cost, and then maybe you go to the concert and, per haps, buy a T-shirt. Artists are rew arded at the end of the process, not in the beginning the way they used to be.

The case against the service s, made most eloquently by Taylor Swift, is that they teach people that

or lesser extent on Amazon, which felt it needed to start its own all-you-can-eat service, Kindle Unlimited, to remain competitive with startups like Oyster and Scribd.

Kindle Unlimited opened in July. In the six months since,

hopes, or will it drown them in bad work? Will it put most indie authors on a treadmill of writing and promoting that only a few can hope to escape, which would resemble the bad old system of publishing? Or will it be a tool for liberation? These questions are shaking up the independent publishing community.

Kindle Unlimited might change, but it will not go away.

able to quit her day job as an executive assistant.

Before Kindle Unlimited, she says, she sold about 6,000 books a month. Since the novels were generally long, she set her prices at $4 or higher. At the moment, Kindle Unlimited pays $1.39 for each book that is borrowed and read. To turn those borrowers into buyers, Le Veque dropped

“I am able to drop prices and, by sheer volume of sales, increase my incom e,” she said. “Most author s can’t do that because mo st of them don’t have 50 novels for sale.”

When asked why people buy works they can borrow ,

TUE ES SDAY, DAY, JAN UARY 6, 2 0 1 5

culture is not worth paying for online. As a result, artists must earn their keep with something more than their art — those T-s hirts, perhaps. If artists do not wan t to or cannot interact with their fans, they might be out of luck.

Traditional book publish ers

the amount of material on it has increased to 700,000 books from 600,000 — nearly equivalent to the entire amount of material available for Kindle e-readers shortly after Amazon introduced them in 2007.

The news late last week that Scribd had received an additional $22 million in financing, bringing its total funding to $48 million, will not pass unnoticed at Amazon. Scribd began its service a little more than a year ago and says it had monthly subscriber growth of 31 percent.

Kathryn Le Veque has self-

some of her prices to as low as 99 cents. The result — She is moving three times as many books a month as she was before Kindle Unlimited. Her annualised revenue has gone up about 50 percent.

In the old days, as artists became more popular, consuming their works got more expensive.

You could hear a guy singing at

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM

she says: “Most readers like to read their favourite boo ks over and over. I’m gettin g a crowd that not only bor rows myy book, but will the n buy that same book to kee p.”

Also, she says, some of her books are not available in Kindle Unlimited, “so the re

The vast majority of Kindle Unlimited books are self-published. In essence, it is one of the biggest experiments in reshaping reading ever undertaken. Will Kindle Unlimited foster a new generation of readers, as Amazon

published 44 `works of fiction since 2012. Her audience is primarily on Amazon, which means that when Kindle Unlimited came along, she either had to give up or make it work. So far, she has been able to adjust.

First, some background: Le Veque was born and raised and still lives in Southern Califor-

the local bar for the price of a beer; when he became Bono or Kanye West, a ticket to see him would cost hundreds of dollars. Writers would begin writing cheap paperbacks and then graduate to pricier hardcovers as the acclaim built.

But Kindle Unlimited is pushing Le Veque in the opposite direction. She is getting more popular by becoming less expensive,

have been reluctant to par ticipate too much in readin g-subscription services, for fear tha t individual books, their author s and the editors who shape them wil l be devalued. But self-published writers, also called independe nt or indie writers, many of whom have

nia. Now 50, she has been writing since she was 13 and has been rejected by traditional publishers since she was 28.

Her favourite setting is English medieval, which she calls a “sub-subgenre of historical romance.” Her first work appeared on Amazon in May 2012.

Within three months, she was

which is making her more popular. She is the embodiment of Amazon’s argument that “lowering e-book prices will help - not hurt — the reading culture.”

To her, however, Kindle Unlimited is “a double-edged sword.”

For one thing, as she readily concedes, not every writer is equipped to do what she did.

She has a huge supply of work from all those years she was unpublished.

are some they must buy in order to read.”

To keep up with the demands of the marketpla tplace ce,, Le Veque now has a par ttime editor and two par ttime assistants. But But she has to consider things tha t

writers never used to think about.

“I am worried that I will have to drop my prices more to stay competitiv e,” she said. “I watch prices literally daily.” -David Streitfeld/The New York Times New s Service

C8

TU ESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015

EXTRA

F

acebook celebrated its 10th anniversary in February and its 1.35 billionth user just nine months after that. (Stop here for a minute, because that number is worth considering: 1.35 billion. Billion. OK, continue. ) Facebook acquired Oculus, makers of a much-touted virtual reality headset, and WhatsApp, the massively popular messaging app. The company launched a steady stream of its own apps, too: Paper, Slingshot, Mentions, Messenger, Rooms. In late July, Facebook released a mobile app to provide free basic Internet service in regions of the world lacking what so many of us take for granted; that’s since rolled out in Zambia, Kenya and Tanzania. And as if we needed further proof that the social network is a global powerhouse, the World Cup broke all-time records for the site: 350 million people posted about the games a total of 3 billion times.

And yet, even as Facebook strides boldly toward world domination, cracks have appeared in its once fresh-faced facade. Teens — the best indicator for Web zeitgeist — have fled the network for younger, hipper venues.

In the past year, users have begun complaining about the insidious reach of algorithms, as well as the site’s every incremental change.

A wave of anonymous apps has begun to erode the distinctly Facebookian notion that everything you do online should be tied to your real-life name.

Perhaps most damningly, for the first time since Facebook launched in 2004, someone made a go at an overtly, intentionally anti-Facebook network. Sure, Ello sputtered out in a span of months — but it gave voice to the concerns of a million wary Facebook users, first.

In the words of one industry analyst: “You look at Facebook and you say, ‘Wow, something really changed in 2014.’

“Much of this is, of course, nothing more than predictable backlash to Facebook’s gargantuan growth. Only six or seven years ago, pundits were still dismissing it as the fringe sandbox of college students; now the company — valued at more than $200 billion — is as much a household name as Coca-Cola or Ford.

But the sheer number of controversies and culture wars that Facebook’s gotten tangled in over the past year would seem to suggest something more than run-of-the-mill contrariness in the face of change.

Users practically rioted over an A/B testing experiment that, they feared, “manipulated” their emotions and gave Facebook psychological powers it seemed destined to abuse. Soon after, they objected to Facebook’s forced rollout of a stand-alone messaging app — “creepy” and “invasive,” critics ruled — and a series of changes to the News Feed that, while arguably valuable, also increased the visibility of Facebook’s mysterious algorithmic filtering.

In May, Facebook rolled out an unabashedly nosy feature called “Ask,” which — practically speaking — encourages users to publish more personal details than they might otherwise. A few months later, the site found itself clashing with drag performers, rights advocates and others over another type of personal detail: Facebook has long insisted that users operate under their “real,” or legal, names regardless of the context.

From a business perspective, that policy makes sense: Your identity, with all the demographics and browsingg data attached to it, is exactly what Facebook sellss advertisers. But from any kind of personal rsonal POV, that seems pretty crazy:: It’s essentially Facebook — a largely ly automated, algorithmic, non-human man entity — telling you who to be.

“You are the product duct that’s bought and sold,” intoned the widely shared manifesto of the social ial networking start-up Ello, which briefly billed itself as an ad-free alternative to Facebook. “We believe eve there is a better way.””

Ello is not the first st or the only sociall network to challengee Facebook, of coursee

By all accounts, 2014 was a pretty ace year

for genius Mark

— though it was the first to do so explicitly. A series of newly trendy anonymous apps, from Whisper and Secret to Yik Yak and newcomer After School, have all questioned the identity ethos at the heart of Facebook. On Whisper or Yik Yak, you do not have to be friends with your college professor or your cousin’s neighbour or your office cubemate; you do not have to share your relationship status or your current location; you can be anyone or no one, and either is OK, and no one (or no thing) will tell you otherwise.

Tech writers were all too eager to anoint Ello the “Facebook-killer,” or predict it would “steal Facebook’s lunch.”

“Facebook may be the biggest — social network around,” Jeremy Quittner wrote over at Inc. “But that doesn’t mean the competition isn’t giving it hot flashes.” (We interpret the odd reference as a commentary on the fact that Facebook’s audience increasingly skews toward the middle aged.)

Ello has, of course, cycled out of the tech hype cycle just as fast as it cycled in.

But truth be told, maybe Facebook needs nee no killer: The site is doing quite enough damage to itself. e Just last week, Facebook became we embroiled in a new controversy after it pushed a celebratory “Year in Review” featu feature to all users’ pages.

For the writer and Web consultant Eric Meyer, Facebook surfaced a photo of o his recently deceased 6-year-old. (“It’s been a 6-ye great gre year! Thanks for being in a part of it,” the package’s tagline read, while a partying clip art figures p danced around Meyd er’s daughter’s face.)

“Yes, my year looked like that. True enough.

Zuckerberg and his ongoing

‘takeover’ of the world

My year looked like the now-absent face of my little girl,” Meyer wrote on his blog. “And I know, of course, that this is not a deliberate assault. Algorithms are essentially thoughtless.

They model certain decision flows, but once you run them, no more thought occurs. To call a person ‘thoughtless’ is usually considered a slight, or an outright insult; and yet, we unleash so many literally thoughtless processes on our users, on our lives, on ourselves.”

It’s a criticism of Facebook, or at least an epiphany about Facebook, that many have apparently experienced this year: When human relationships and identities are moderated by algorithm, particularly for profit, bad things happen. Inevitably! There are simply more variables in life than a string of code could ever account for. There are too many shades and expressions of personal identity, too many internal irrationalities and inconsistencies, too many secrets and whispers and emotional baggage for an algorithm to encode. That shortfall can leave us feeling anxious. Or dehumanized. Betrayed by the site, even.

Of course, the hordes of people who left Facebook in 2014 didn’t usually articulate their concerns that way. A study out shortly before Christmas, by the research firm Frank N. Magid Associates, found that 6 percent of high-schoolers abandoned the site in the past year. A much larger survey, this one conducted by the Pew Research Centre last year, found that 61 per cent of all Facebook users have taken long breaks from the network; asked why they went on hiatus, users most frequently said they were busy or bored or considered Facebook a “waste” of their time.

Facebook, unsurprisingly, sees itself in a different light. Early this month, the social network published a typically flashy, feel-good “year in review” for itself; the resulting video recounts the “moments, places and people that moved us in 2014” — a pretty bold claim, when you think about it, since Facebook is basically equating the stuff you post on Facebook with the stuff that matters most to you.

After winding through a series of news events and celebrity deaths, the video ends on a screengrab of a Facebook status: “Feeling connected,” it reads. Thumbs up.

Alas, there may be no better symbol for Facebook’s long year of discontent.

— Caitlin Dewey/The Washington Post

T U E S DAY, JAN UARY 6, 2 0 1 5

C9

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SCREEN 1 P. K (Comedy | Drama | Social) (PG ) Cast: Aamir Khan, Anushka Sharma, Sanjay Dutt 3.30, 6.30, 9.30 pm SCREEN 2 Action Jackson (Act| Rom| Dr) (12+ ) Cast: Ajay Devgan, Sonakshi Sinha 3:45& 6:45 pm P. K (Comedy | Drama | Social) (PG ) Cast: Aamir Khan, Anushka Sharma, Sanjay Dutt 10.00 pm

SCREEN 3 Linga (Act|Drama) (Tamil) -(PG ) Cast: Rajnikanth, Sonakshi Sinha 3.30 & 6:45 pm Action Jackson (Act| Rom| Dr) (12+ ) Cast: Ajay Devgan, Sonakshi Sinha 10:00 pm

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies -3D (PG12) (Adv| Fantasy) Cast: Ian McKellen, Richard Armitage 7: 00 pm P.K. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2D (PG) Com | Drama | Fantasy Cast : Aamir Khan, Anushka Sharma 8:30 pm Swelter â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2D (15+) Act | Dr | Thriller Cast:Jean-Claude Van Damme, 3:45, 7:45, 9:45, 11:45 pm Vice â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2D (15+) Act | Adv | Sci-Fi Cast : Thomas Jane, Bruce Willis 5:45, 9:45, 11:45pm Legend of the NeverBeast â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3D (PG) Animation | Adventure | Family Voice Overs: Ginnifer Goodwin, Rosario Dawson, Mae Whitman 4:00, 5:30 pm Legend of the NeverBeast â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2D (PG) Animation | Adventure | Family Voice Overs: Ginnifer Goodwin, Mae Whitman 3:15 pm The Woman in Black 2 Angel of Death â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2D (15+) (Drama | Horror) Cast: Helen McCrory, Phoebe Fox 4:40, 11:30 pm Unbroken â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2D (15+) Bio| Dr | Sport Cast: Jack Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, Takamasa Ishihara, Domhnall 6:30, 11:15 pm Cousins â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2D (M) (PG) (Comedy)

Cast: Kunchacko Boban, Indrajith Sukumaran, Suraj Venjaramoodu 9:00 pm Laggies â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2D (PG) (Com | Romance) Cast : Keira Knightley, ChloĂŤ Grace 03:15 , 05:00 , 06:45 pm

Vice (Act | Adventure | Sci-Fi ) (15+) Cast: Thomas Jane, Bruce Willis 3:30, 6:30, 8:15, 11:45 pm Swelter (Act | Dr | Thriller) (15+) Cast: Jean-Claude Van Damme 5:15, 7:00, 10:00, 11:30 pm P.K. (Com | Dr | Fantasy) (PG) Cast: Aamir Khan, Sanjay Dutt 3:45, 8:45 pm Legend of the NeverBeast - 2D (Animation | Adv | Family) (PG) 3:00 pm Legend of the NeverBeast - 3D Animation | Adv | Family) (PG) 4:30, 6:00 pm Cousins (Comedy) (PG) Cast: Kunchacko Boban, Indrajith Sukumaran, Suraj Venjaramoodu 7:30 pm The Woman in Black 2 Angel of Death (Dr | Horror | Thriller) (15+) Cast: Helen McCrory, Phoebe Fox 10:00, 11:45 pm

Swelter (Act | Dra) (15+) Cast: Jean-Claude Van Damme 08:00, 11:30 pm Vice (Act| Adventure | Sci-Fi) (15+) Cast: Thomas Jane, Bruce Willis 04:30, 06:15, 09:45 pm

Cast: Mindy Robinson, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Alfred Molina 6.00, 10.00 & 11.55 pm Ironclad: Battle for Blood (Action / Adventure) (15+) Cast: Michelle Fairley, Roxanne McKee, Danny Webb 4.00, 8.00 & 11.55 pm Unbroken (Drama)(15+) Cast: Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman 4.30, 7.00 & 9.30 pm Camp X-ray (Drama) Cast: Kristen Stewart, Peyman Moaadi 2.00 pm; CP No: 2673 (18+)

Legend of the NeverBeast(3D) (Animation | Adv | Family) (PG) 05:00, 06:30 pm Cousins (Mal) (Comedy) (PG) Cast: Kunchacko Boban, Indrajith Sukumaran, Suraj Venjaramoodu 10:45 pm P.K (Hindi) (Co | Dr | Fantasy) (PG) Cast: Aamir Khan, Sanjay Dutt 8:00 pm

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (Adventure / Fantasy) Cast: Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage 2.00 pm; CP No: 2574 (PG12)

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (3D/PG12) (Adv/Fantasy) 11:45pm Vice (2D/15+) (Act/Adv/Sc-FI) 2:00, 5:45, 9:45, 11:45pm Swelter (2D/15+) Act/Dr/Thriller) 12:00, 7:45, 9:30pm Ironclad: Battle for Blood (2D/18+) (Action/Adventure) 3:45, 11:30pm Let the Bullets Fly (2D/18+)Act/Co 1:30pm Legend of the Never Beast (3D/PG) (Action/Adventure/Family) 4:00, 5:30pm Legend of the Never Beast (2D/PG) (Action/Adventure/Family) Voice Overs: Ginnifer Goodwin 11:00am, 2:30pm Unbroken (2D/15+) (Ro/Comedy) 4:00, 7:00pm P.K. (2D/PG) (Com/Dr/fantasy) 9:00pm The Woman in Black 2 Angel of Death (2D/PG) (Dr/Horr) 12:30, 11:45pm Cousins (2D/PG) (Comedy) 6:30pm

Film Information - 24540856 / Advance Booking - 24540855 Website: www.albahjacinemaoman.com

STARS CINEMA Film information 24791641 / 24786776 Cousins (Mal) (Com) Cast: Kunchako Boban, Indrajit 3:30 & 6:30 pm at Cinema Main, 9:45pm Cinema 3 PK (Hindi- Drama) Cast: Aamir Khan, Sanjay Dutt 3:45, 6:45pm at Cinema 3, 9:30pm Cinema Main Lingaa (Tamil) (Act |Dr| Thriller) (PG) Cast: Rajnikanth & Anushka Shetty 6:45pm at Cinema 4 Iyobinete Pusthakam (Mal) (Act) Cast: Fahad Fazil, Jaysurya 3:30, 6:30 & 9:30pm Cinema 2 Meagamann (Tamil) (Act) Cast: Arya & Hansika Motwani 3:45 & 9:45pm at Cinema 4 NEXT CHANGE: Mylanchi Monchulla Veedu (Mal) Chinnadana Nee Kosam (Telugu)

For More Information 24789032, 24786776 Website: www.isurf.co.om

ACES ON BRIDGE

The winning play is not tempting

SUDOKU

HOW TO PLAY Fill the empty cells with the numbers 1 to 9, so that each number appears once in each row, column and area. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Seven Galaxies

HUSSNAIN SIDDIQUI

B I G NAT E

1 Truck front 4 Make a sound like a sheep 7 Duck or hue 11 Tunnel digger 12 Coffee brewer 13 Natural impulse 14 Ready to drop (hyph.)

16 Fundamental part 17 Muscle cramp 18 Shirt measurements 20 Bastille Day season 21 Temporary state 23 Winter Games grp.

26 Some are sweet 27 Husks 28 Awards for valor 31 Mars or Neptune 33 Paraphernalia 34 Move like a butterďŹ&#x201A;y 35 Swarm around 36 Burrosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bellows 38 Oh. neighbour 41 Half- â&#x20AC;&#x201D; idea 43 Steakhouse order

(hyph.)

45 Miniseries â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shaka â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;?

47 Deep cracks 49 Two ďŹ ves for â&#x20AC;&#x201D; â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 50 Actress â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Hartman 51 Ruby and garnet 52 Memoir topic 53 NFL linemen 54 Express in words DOWN 1 Pre-empt (hyph.)

2 Kelp 3 Gambles 4 Prickly seed case 5 Wrestling venues 6 Pampas backdrop 7 Fez wearer 8 Gully maker 9 Back when 10 Allow 11 Inventory wd.

15 Force 19 After yr. 1 22 Holds 24 Poem by Keats 25 Austin hrs.

26 Average 27 Butter serving

28 Where the lion roars 29 Want-ad abbr.

30 Putters with 31 Carry on a trade 32 Tallies 34 Growing dim 36 Whopper venue, for short 37 Allude to

38 Asian country 39 Custer, to Crazy Horse 40 Loch â&#x20AC;&#x201D; monster 42 A relative 44 Computer glitches 45 Shock 46 Tony-winner â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Hagen 48 Eur. airline

Answer to previous puzzle

ACROSS

January 6, 2010

MARMADUKE

CROSSWORD

MOHD DHANISH BIN IRSHAD

January 6, 2014

Previous puzzle Solution

OSCAR Wilde said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it.â&#x20AC;?

Sometimes at the bridge table, the successful play is the least tempting; then it is very hard to ďŹ nd.

In this deal, South is in four spades. West leads a low diamond.

What should East do after winning the trick with his queen?

In the auction, Northâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fourdiamond rebid was a splinter, showing four spades, game-going values and a singleton (or void) in diamonds.

At trick two, East did not like the idea of leading a club away from his king, or a heart into dummyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s acequeen, or his singleton trump; so he played the diamond king.

Now, though, South ruffed in the dummy, played a spade to his ace (the right play to allow for either opponent holding all four trumps) and ran the club eight. The defenders had no answer. Declarer lost one spade, one diamond and one club.

West was not amused. He pointed out that East could see two minor-suit tricks, so had to hope that West had a spade trick and that they could gain a heart trick. With that in mind, East had to lead a low heart at trick two. West would have covered Southâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s card as cheaply as possible, and the defenders would have been ahead in the race.

Declarer probably would have won with dummyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart queen, played a spade to his ace, and taken the club ďŹ nesse. But East could have won and led another heart, driving out dummyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ace. South would have cashed dummyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spade king and turned to clubs, but West would have ruffed the third round and played a heart to defeat the contract. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; By Phillip Alder

WITH LOVE

BORN LOSER

MOHAMMED ZAFEER January 6, 2005

AADESH R.

January 6, 2005

E.P. ABHINAV KRISHNA January 6

Send us a colour photograph of the child (below 16 years) whose birthday you are celebrating, along with his/her full name, date of birth, address, telephone number and parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;/your name to Times of Oman, With Love, PO Box 770, PC 112, Ruwi or through e-mail to extra@timesofoman.com

KIDSPOT

H E A LT H C A P S U L E

C10

TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015

PRAYER TIMINGS

FIND-IT-ALL Y O U R B I R T H D AY

BORN today, you have been endowed with tremendous talent, and you will be aware of it from your earliest years, when you experiment with how to use it to its fullest potential. It may seem to you as if you have no choice in life as far as the road you are destined to take — but that is, in fact, the point!

Your sense of destiny is keen, and you are more than likely to accept your assignment in life without question, knowing that to do so will mean the full development of your skills and talents, and the application of them to endeavors that are more meaningful than most everyday jobs. The day-inday-out grind is not for you; you want things to be special all the time!

You know how to take something that has been done before and do it in a way that makes it seem new and exciting — to you and to others.

Indeed, it is your own personal stamp that will make what you do really count. Though you may imitate others while you are learning, you’ll no doubt come into your own very quickly.

Also born on this date are: Rowan Atkinson, actor and comedian; Eddie Redmayne, actor; Joan of Arc, soldier and saint; Nigella Lawson, author and chef; Danny Thomas, actor; Loretta Young, actress; Bonnie Franklin, actress; Carl Sandburg, poet and author; Howie Long, football player; Vic Tayback, actor; Tom Mix, actor; John Singleton, filmmaker; Anthony Minghella, filmmaker.

W E AT H E R

M

WORLD

Max 27 Min 19 Max 2 Min -3

Max 22 Min 7

Max 26 Min 16 Max -7 Min -13

Max 25 Min 18

Max -12 Min -18

Max 27 Min 14

Max 25 Min 12

Max 25 Min 10

Max 26 Min16

Max 27 Min 14

[DEC. 22-JAN 19] Max 30 Min 20

Max 13 Min 8

—www.met.gov.om

Max 30 Min 21 Max 32 Min 20

Min

GULF Abu Dhabi Doha Dubai Kuwait Manama Riyadh

25 22 24 19 23 23

13 13 16 14 16 12

WORLD Athens Baghdad Beijing Berlin Boston Cairo Colombo Frankfurt Hong Kong Istanbul Johannesburg Kuala Lumpur Lisbon Paris Perth Singapore Tokyo Toronto

8 19 3 3 -1 15 30 0 23 23 29 29 13 5 32 28 11 -3

5 8 -7 0 -5 8 23 -2 16 16 18 24 7 2 17 24 4 -6

L O N G D I S TA N C E B U S T I M I N G S ( O M A N N AT I O N A L T R A N S P O R T C O M PA N Y S A O C ) * S U B J E C T T O C H A N G E

[JAN. 20-FEB. 18] A casual approach proves best, especially late in the day when reports are coming in about the results and impact of your efforts.

PISCES [Feb. 19-March 20] You can prove that you are after the same thing as a rival. As a result, you may be able to bury the hatchet before the day is out.

ARIES [March 21-APRIL 19] If it appears to you that things are out of whack, you’ll want to investigate further. Certain rhythms may prove misleading.

TAURUS [APRIL 20-MAY 20] You’re eager to hear if your work has won the praise of those who are usually quite critical of you. Recent changes have proven effective.

GEMINI [MAY 21-JUNE 20] What you are doing to avoid getting more deeply involved in a personal tangle is paying off, but do you really want to keep your distance?

CANCER [JUNE 21-JULY 22] You may not be expecting things to develop quickly, yet the pace is likely to increase hour by hour until you cannot help but notice.

LEO [JULY 23-AUG. 22] You may have to work hard to meet a certain deadline, but only because recent commitments elsewhere have altered your timeline.

VIRGO [AUG. 23-SEPT. 22] You’re not happy with the way things are going, but you know that the way they were in the past didn’t suit you either. Consider options.

LIBRA L [[SEPT. [S S 23-OCT. 22] You may feel as though you have been trapped by circumstances, but there was something you could have done, and you know it.

SCORPIO S [[OCT. 23-NOV. 21] You’ll want to reinforce what you are doing so that everyone is clear about your motives and methods.

SAGITTARIUS S [[NOV. 22-DEC. 21] Simpler is better. You don’t want to make things so complicated that it becomes impossible to communicate effectively.

Sunset Sunrise (Tomorrow)

5.34pm 6.50am

High tide Low tide

4:33am 9:42pm

3:52pm 10:44pm

SEA STATE: Slight along Oman Sea coast with a maximum wave height of 1.25 metres while slight to moderate along the southeastern coast with a maximum wave height of 1.5 metres.

HORIZONTAL VISIBILITY: Good over most of the Sultanate becoming poor during fog formation.

THE NEXT 48 HOURS OUTLOOK: Mainly clear skies with chances of late night to early morning low level clouds or fog patches over governorates of south Al-Sharqiya, Al-Wusta and Dhofar and the coastal areas of Oman Sea.

Max

OMAN

AQUARIUS

12.17pm 3.19pm 5.39pm 6.54pm 5.30am

AIRLINES

ainly clear skies over most of the Sultanate with chances of late night to early morning low level clouds or fog patches over governorates of south Al-Sharqiya, north Al-Sharqiya, Al-Wusta and Dhofar and the coastal areas of Oman Sea. EXPECTED WIND: Wind will be northeasterly light to moderate during day becoming variable light at night along Oman Sea coast, whereas it will be easterly to southeasterly light to moderate over rest of the Sultanate.

CAPRICORN You may have some trouble sorting through your own emotions. Perhaps you’re overreacting to something that was inevitable.

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

FROM MUSCAT (RUWI) QURIYAT - SUR - JAALAN (Route 36) Dept Destination Arrival Time Time 15:00 Quriyat 16:30 15:00 Sur 18:00 15:00 Jaalan 19:30 TO AL BURAIMI (Route 41) 06:30 Sohar 06:30 Buraimi 08:00 Buraimi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Buraimi 16.00 Sohar 16.00 Buraimi TO SINAW (Route 52) 17:30 Sinaw

TO MUSCAT (RUWI) Operating Days Daily Daily Daily

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (Route 36) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 05:30 Sur 06:45 Daily 05:30 Quriyat 08:30 Daily 05:30 Ruwi 10:00 Daily

08:50 11:00 14:30 15:45 17:40 18.35 20:20

Daily Daily Daily via Ibri Daily Daily Daily Daily

20:50

Daily

TO AL BURAIMI (Route 41) 07:00 Sohar 07:00 Ruwi 13:30 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 17:00 Ruwi TO SINAW (Route 52) 07:00 Ruwi

To Yanqul (Route 54) 14:30 Nizwa 14:30 Yanqul

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (Route 54) 08:00 Nizwa 08:00 Al Araqi

10:20 12:30

TO SUR (Route 55) 07:30 Sur 14:30 Sur TO FAHUD - YIBAL (Route 62) 06:30 Fahud 06:30 Yibal

08:55 11:40 20:20 14:55 17:40 19:20 22:15

Daily Daily Daily via Ibri Daily Daily Daily Daily

10:25

Daily

To Yanqul (Route 54) 06:00 Nizwa 06:00 Ruwi

08:40 11:00

Daily Daily

Daily Daily

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (Route 54) 15:40 Nizwa 15:40 Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

12:00 18:45

Daily Daily

TO SUR (Route 55) 06:00 Ruwi 14:30 Ruwi

10:45 19:00

Daily Daily

10:30 11:15

Daily Daily

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (Route 62) 12:30 Fahud 12:30 Ruwi

13:15 17:30

Daily Daily

TO MARMUL-SALALAH (Route 100) 07:00 Salalah 20:00 10:00 Marmul 20:30 10:00 Salalah 23:30 19:00 Salalah 07:40

Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO SALALAH -MARMUL (Route 100) 07:00 Ruwi 19:50 10:00 Marmul 13:15 10:00 Ruwi 22:30 19:00 Ruwi 07:30

Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO MARMUL (Route 101) 06:00 Marmul

Daily

TO MARMUL (Route 101) 06:00 Marmul

16:30

Daily

Daily

DUBAI TO SALALAH (Route 102) 15:00 Salalah 07:00

Daily

16:50

SALALAH TO DUBAI (Route 102) 15:00 Dubai 07:00 TO DUBAI (Route 201) 06:00 Sohar 06:00 Dubai 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Dubai 15:00 Sohar 15:00 Dubai

08:30 11:30 15:30 18:30 17:35 20:55

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

TO DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (Route 204) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 07:00 Fujairah 11.45 Daily 07:00 Sharjah 13.30 Daily 07:00 Dubai 14.00 Daily

TO DUBAI (Route 201) 07:30 Sohar 07:30 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Ruwi 15:30 Sohar 15:30 Ruwi

10:50 13:40 16:15 19:10 18:45 21:35

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

FROM DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (Route 204) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 16:00 Sharjah 16:30 Daily 16.00 Fujairah 18.15 Daily 16.00 Ruwi 23.00 Daily

LISTINGS

PHARMACIES Round the clock Al Hashar Pharmacy, Ruwi: 24783334; Appolo Medical Centre, Hamriya: 24782666; Muscat Pharmacy, Ruwi: 24702542, Salalah: 23291635; Atlas Pharmacy, Ghubra: 24503585; Ruwi 24811715 Muscat Region Apollo, Al Hamriya. Tel: 24787766 Muscat, A Seeb Market. Tel: 24421691 Muscat, Al Khuwair. Tel: 24485740 Muscat, Al Hail South. Tel: 24537080 Dhofar Region Muscat, Al Nahdha Road, Salalah.

Tel: 23291635 HOSPITALS Al Amal Medical & Health Care Centre: 24485052 Atlas Hospital: Ruwi: 24811743/ Ghubra: 24504000 Al Musafir Specialised Medical Clinic: 24706453 Hatat Polyclinic LLC, Ruwi: 24563641, Azaiba: 24499269, Sohar: 2683006 Al Raffah Hospital: 24618900/1/2 Al Massaraat Clinic & Laboratory: 24566435 Al Makook Medical Coordinance Centre: 24499434 Apollo Medical Centre, Hamriya: 24787766, 24787780 Capital Polyclinic: 24707549 Badr Al Samaa Polyclinic, Ruwi: 24799760/1/2 Capital Clinic, Seeb: 24420740 Ceregem National Raak: 24485633 Dr Harub’s Clinic: 24563217 Elixir Health Centre: 24565802 Emirates Medical Centre: 24604540 1st Chiropractic Centre: 24472274 Hamdan Hospital: 23212340 International Medical Centre LLC: 24794501/2/3/4/5 Kims Oman Hospital: 24760100

24 Hrs Emergency: 24760123 Lama Polyclinic, Sohar: 26751128, MBD: 24799077, Al Khuwair: 24478818 Magrabi Eye and Ear Hospital: 24568870 Muscat Private Hospital: 24583600 Welcare Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, Al Khuwair: 24477666 Al-Hayat Polyclinc LLC: 22004000 ROYAL OMAN POLICE Emergencies and inquiries: 9999 General Directorate of Passport and Residence: 24569603 Directorate General of Customs: 24521109 Traffic violations inquiries: 24510228 Public Relations Admin: 24560099 ACCOMMODATION Al Bahjah Hotel: 24424400 Al Bustan Palace: 24764000 Al Khuwair Hotel Apartments: 24478171 Al Madina Holiday Inn: 24596400 Al Maha International Hotel: 24494949 Al Fanar Hotel: 24712385 Al Falaj Hotel: 24702311 Al Qurum Resort: 24605945 Azaiba Hotel Apartments: 24490979 Beach Hotel: 24696601 Bowshar Hotel: 24491105 Coral Hotel Muscat: 24692121 Crowne Plaza Muscat: 24660660 Crystal Suites: 24826100 Golden Tulip Seeb: 24510300 Grand Hyatt Muscat: 24641234 Haffa House Hotel: 24707207 Hotel Muscat Holiday: 24487123 InterContinental Muscat: 24680000 Majan Continental Hotel: 24592900 Marina Hotel: 24711711 Midan Hotel Suites: 24499565 Mina Hotel: 24711828 Muttrah Hotel: 24798401

Nuzha Hotel Apartments: 24789199 Oman Dive Centre: 24824240 Park Inn: 24507888 Qurum Beach House Hotel: 24564070 Radisson Blu Hotel: 24487777 Ramee Dream Resort Seeb: 24453399 Ramee Guestline Hotel: 24564443 Ruwi Hotel: 24704244 Safeer Hotel Suites: 24691200 Sheraton Oman Hotel: 24772772 Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa: 24776666 The Chedi Muscat: 24524400 The Treasurebox Muscat Hotel: 24502570 AIRLINE OFFICES Muscat Airport Flight information (24 hours): 24519456/24519223 Aeroflot: 24704455, Air Arabia: 24700828, Air France: 24562153, Air India: 24799801, Air New Zealand: 24700732, Biman Bangladesh Airlines: 24701128, British Airways: 24568777, Cathay Pacific: 24789818, Egypt Air: 24794113, Emirates Air: 24404400, Ethiopian Airlines: 24660313, Gulf Air: 80072424, Indian: 24791914, Iran Air: 24787423, Japan Airlines: 24704455, Jazeera Airways: 23294848, Jet Airways: 24787248, Kenya Airways: 24660300, KML Royal Dutch Airlines: 24566737, Kuwait Airways: 24701262, LOT Polish Airlines: 24796387, Lufthansa: 24796692, Malaysian Airlines: 24560796, Middle East Airlines: 24796680, Oman Air: 24531111, Pakistan International Airlines: 24792471, Qatar Airways: 24771900, Qantas: 24559941, Royal Jordanian: 24796693, Saudi Arabian Airlines: 24789485, Singapore Airlines: 24791233, Shaheen Air: 24816565, SriLankan Airlines:

24784545, Swiss International Airlines: 24796692, Thai Airways: 24705934, Turkish Airlines: 24703033 MUSEUMS Bait Al Baranda: Corniche (seafront opp fish market), Open from Saturday to Thursday 9am to 1pm and 4 to 6pm Natural History Museum: Al Khuwair, Tel: 24604957, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm; Thursday: 9am to 1pm Museum of Omani Heritage: (former Omani Museum), Madinat Al Alam, Sat-Wed 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday 9am to 1pm, Tel: 24600946 Armed Forces Museum: Bait Al Falaj, Tel: 24312651, Open from Sat to Wed: 8am to 1:30pm; Thurs 9-12pm and 3-6pm; Fri 9-11am and 3-6pm. Al Hoota Caves 24498258; Turtle Beach 96550606/96550707 Children’s Science Museum: Shatti Al Qurum, Tel: 24605368, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday: 9am to 1pm Oman-French Museum: near Muscat Police Station, Tel: 24736613, Open from Sat to Wed: 8am to 1:30pm, Thurs: 9am to 1pm Bait Al Zubair, Muscat: Tel: 24736688, Al Saidiya St., Muscat museum@baitalzubairmuseum.com Open from Sat to Thurs: 9:30am to 6pm.

National Museum Ruwi: Tel: 24701289, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday: 9am to 1pm Sohar Fort Museum: Tel: 26844758, Open from Saturday to Wed: 8 to 1:30pm Thurs: 9am to 1pm Muscat Gate Museum: at Al Bahri Road, Muscat open from Sat to Wed 8am to 2pm

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY FLT NO

ARRIVALS FROM

CAIRO 0005 RIYADH 0005 RIYADH 0005 JEDDAH 0005 KUWAIT 0010 BANGKOK 0015 LAHORE 0130 SALALAH 0150 ISTANBUL 0215 ISLAM ABBAD-SIALKOT 0225 KARACHI 0230 DOHA 0345 ADDIS ABABA 0350 DUBAI 0355 BAHRAIN 0405 ABU DHABI 0405 DUBAI 0415 SALALAH 0630 ABU DHABI 0650 BAHRAIN 0700 AMMAN 0705 DOHA 0710 KUWAIT 0715 MUNICH 0715 FRANKFURT 0715 DAMMAM 0725 JEDDAH 0730 MALPENSA-ZURICH 0745 PARIS 0800 DUBAI 0805 BOMBAY 0815 TEHRAN 0815 LONDON HEATHROW 0820 BEIRUT 0830 DUBAI 0850 SHARJAH 0915 HYDERABAD 0920 DELHI 0935 MADRAS 0940 DUBAI 0940 DOHA 1000 DOHA 1010 ABU DHABI 1015 MUKHAIZNA 1045 JAIPUR 1100 DUBAI 1110 SALALAH 1110 RAS AL KHAIMA 1120 DUBAI 1200 CHITTAGONG 1210 LUCKNOW 1210 CALICUT 1210 GWADUR 1220 CHITTAGONG 1245 KHASAB 1245 DUBAI 1330 KARACHI 1355 KHASAB 1440 MANGALORE-ABU DHABI 1440 SALALAH 1445 BANGKOK 1525 KUWAIT 1525 BAHRAIN 1530 LAHORE 1550 DUBAI 1555 ABU DHABI 1635 BOMBAY 1710 CALICUT 1720 DELHI 1730 HYDERABAD 1740 TRIVANDRUM 1740 ISLAM ABBAD 1745 DOHA 1745 DOHA 1745 DUBAI 1800 BAHRAIN 1810 BANGALORE 1810 DUBAI 1845 MUKHAIZNA 1845 RIYADH 1900 SHARJAH 1915 BANGKOK-KARACHI 1935 DUBAI 1945 DUBAI 2030 SALALAH 2055 DUBAI 2125 DELHI 2125 BOMBAY 2130 COCHIN 2140 DUBAI 2145 COLOMBO 2150 MADRAS 2155 BANGKOK 2200 MADRAS 2200 DOHA 2210 COLOMBO 2225 BAHRAIN 2240 LONDON HEATHROW-ABU DHABI 2240 ABU DHABI 2250 SALALAH 2305 AHMEDABAD-BOMBAY 2310 DOHA 2315 ZURICH-DUBAI 2320 BOMBAY 2325 FRANKFURT-ABU DHABI 2330 BAHRAIN 2330 DUBAI 2335 DAMMAM 2350 ABU DHABI 2350 SALALAH 2355 ZANZIBAR-DARESSLAM 2355

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AI986 LX243 9W539 BA072 LH619 WY685 WY251 WY201 WY225 WY235 WY601 WY345 WY341 WY431 WY241 WY151 WY643 WY313 WY637 WY657 WY115 WY667 WY123 WY143 4H584 WY691 PK230 TK777 WY267 EK867 FZ042 QR1133 EY385 WY617 WY3921 GF561 WY903 WY603 WY273 WY215 WY325 WY291 NL769 FZ044 WY283 WY245 WY231 WY3301 G9115 WY815 WY203 WY905 WY605 WY253 WY717 EK863 EY383 WY655 IX554 IX442 QR1129 9W533 G9842 WY631 IX350 FZ038 PA451 WY101 WY663 WY413 WY3303 WY927 WY609 WY405 WY331 WY913 WY675 FZ046 WY613 WY623 QR1127 WY681 WY907 GF565 WY661 WY647 WY653 WY695 EK865 WY909 G9117 WY611 WY635 FZ048 WY825 WY915 AI978 FZ050 KL442 9W529 6.00E+82 AI908 AI974 QR1135 GF567 WY901 EY381 WY673

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EXTRA H E A LT H N O T E S

Rotating night shift may cut your life short: Study ROTATING night shift work deteriorates health in general, enhances the development of lung cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD), and contributes to higher mortality, new research has confirmed. Women working rotating night shifts for five or more years had a modest increase in allcause and CVD mortality and those working 15 or more years of rotating night shift work had a modest increase in lung cancer mortality, the findings showed. Rotating night shift was defined in the study as working at least three nights per month in addition to days or evenings in that month.

“These results add to prior evidence of a potentially detrimental relation of rotating night shift work and health and longevity,” said Eva Schernhammer, associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School.

Sleep and the circadian system play an important role in cardiovascular health and antitumor activity.

Table sugar is less toxic than fructose: Study

ALL added sugar” found typically in processed foods are bad but among them the fructose found in corn syrup may harm you more than table sugar, new research has found.

“This is the most robust study showing there is a difference between highfructose corn syrup and table sugar at human-relevant doses,” said senior author of a new study Wayne Potts, professor at University of Utah in the US. When the researchers fed mice sugar in doses proportional to what many people eat, the fructose-glucose mixture found in high-fructose corn syrup was more toxic than sucrose or table sugar, reducing both the reproduction and lifespan of female rodents.

Aspirin’s powers to tackle dementia being probed AN Australian university has been commissioned by the US-based National Institutes of Health to investigate aspirin’s antidementia powers, local media reported. Dementia, where a person’s cognitive mind, function and memory dissolves, is one of the biggest medical challenges for elderly people. Monash University in Melbourne has begun a $41 million trial called ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly, Xinhua reported. -IANS

Playing with fire: The perilous practice of sulphur mining Dozens of volcanoes form the backbone of the Indonesian island of Java, many of them active

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here is a noise on the path behind us. I turn, swinging the light of my torch directly into a man’s face. Anywhere else in the world I would be alarmed, after all, it is the middle of the night and my friend and I are on a forest-lined track, miles from civilisation. However, the man, who greets us with a wide smile, is part of the reason why we are here, at the base of the Ijen volcano in East Java. We are in one of the few places in the world where travellers can witness the near-extinct practice of volcanic sulphur mining.

The island of Java sits at the heart of Indonesia, one of the most volcanic nations on earth, made up of some 17,000 islands. Java’s dense population – it is the world’s most populous island, home to more than half of Indonesia’s 250 million residents — and notorious pollution mean that it is often dismissed by travellers, but away from the urban pockets is a string of volcanoes stretching the length of the island, 45 of them active and plenty offering activities for the adventurous tourist.

Almost within sight of Bali, Ijen volcano offers the opportunity to share the 3 kilometre path to the

crater with miners, watching in wonder as they make the twicedaily trip to the summit, where they descend into the steaming crater and extract chunks of sulphur. It is channelled from the heart of the volcano through pipes, in which volcanic gasses condense to produce dark red, moulten sulphur. The sulphur spews out of the pipe where it cools and solidifies, turning bright yellow in the process. The miners then break it into chunks and carry it in wicker baskets up to the crater rim and down the side of the volcano to be weighed. The sulphur is used in the paper industry, to bleach sugar and to make matches and fertiliser.

The starting point of the trek is Pos Paltuding, in the middle of the Ijen Plateau, a sparsely populated highland area on the eastern tip of the island. There’s little at Pos Paltuding beyond a basic shelter where you can spend the night.

Accommodation options close to the trek are limited to budget homestays; for mid-range options you need to stay further afield, such as along the east coast. My base is Arabica Homestay, on a nearby coffee plantation, from which we make a sleepy departure for our ascent at 4.30am — the turquoise acid crater lake is best seen

in the early morning, before cloud descends and obscures the view.

The path is good, a couple of metres wide in places, but steep in parts. It is minutes before we meet the first miner; he is keen to know where we are from and if he can practise his English on us. We are happy to oblige and as we pant our way up the steep trail there is a steady flow of conversation with our new friend and some of the other miners, who pause briefly as they stride past at twice our speed.

I ask them about the physical demands and dangers of the job, which they shrug off nonchalantly, keen to talk instead about life in London. We are a quarter of the way up when we are greeted by a spectacular sunrise which allows us our first glimpse of the stunning Ijen Plateau. Alpine forest stretches over hills and dormant volcanoes as far as the eye can see, while a gang of gibbons breaks the silence as they swing noisily through the trees overhead.

After 90 minutes, the forest clears and we emerge at the lip of the crater. The acid lake, Kawah Ijen, is, frustratingly, hidden behind the clouds of sulphur fumes which billow in our direction.

However, the sight is nonetheless impressive; a vast and barren cra-

ter rim dotted with miners who are weighed down with baskets filled with bright yellow chunks of sulphur.

As I move closer in towards the crater, the eggy stench hits me. Our miner friend grins and signals for me to cover my mouth and nose with a scarf. He offers to take me down into the crater to see where the sulphur deposits are mined but the fumes are overpowering so I decline. The fumes further down are so noxious that even the miners, who have no protection beyond a face scarf, only enter it for 15 minutes at a time. We say our goodbyes and I watch him amble down the path. He quickly disappears into the smoke.

The eruption of Java’s Mount Kelud in February earlier this year was a reminder, if one was needed, of the mighty power of volcanoes.

Seeing first-hand the highly dangerous conditions that the miners work in is sobering. My respect is only amplified when we make our way back down the slope. Every miner we pass as they make their way up for the second time that day gives us a smile or an enthusiastic “good morning”; an experience as alien to a Londoner like me as Ijen itself.

— Heather Carswell/The Independent

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EXTRA B O L LY W O O D

Big B increases security for weekly fan sessions AMITABH BACHCHAN’S tradition of greeting his fans at his doorstep almost every Sunday morning has survived yet another year. The actor says now he has increased security to stop “mischief makers” from entering inside. “The police contingent has been increased. Mischief makers too find their way inside and have been the cause of embarrassment to those that come, as also the cause for the loss of some of their personal belongings. So dear all, do be careful,” the 72-year-old posted on his official blog srbachchan.tumblr.com on Monday. The actor, who lives with his family in a bungalow named Jalsa here, also pointed out how women and children in the crowd were brought inside his premises for their safety.

Why we make (and break) our resolutions

Deepika Padukone turns 29; to star in varied roles

Just one in 10 may achieve their goals in 2015, say experts

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n the 31st of December every year, my father solemnly tells me that next year will be the one where he will finally crack the habit, turn over a new leaf. He will, he bravely declares, bottom lip a-quiver, give up hang-gliding. Or bungee jumping, wearing sombreros or being a criminal mastermind. So far, he has achieved every goal he has set himself.

For the rest of us mere mortals, with real goals to stress less, lose weight, be healthier, be more organised, following through on our new year resolutions is not so easy.

How many of us vow that this will be ‘my year’, where we will shed our bad habits and become better people? How many of us succeed?

The answer is — not many.

Just one in 10 of us will achieve our goal, according to a study

by Professor Richard Wiseman from the University of Hertfordshire — with most of us scrapping the good intentions as early as January 23rd.

So what’s the outcome? Scrap the resolutions and resign ourselves to another year with a tarnished halo? Or change our attitudes — and even the goals themselves — to achieve real results? Here’s some advice from the experts: Set a target Have a very clear dateline for your goals. They should be set at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 12 weeks and 1 year, and each one should have a specific target to achieve in order to avoid “drift” in your programme.

Matt Roberts, Personal fitness trainer

Make it about more than you Rewrite your resolution or goal into a “vision” that benefits someone else you care about, not just you. Ie if its “to get fit”, turn it into “get fit so I can run around with my kids”. We are less likely to sabotage our resolutions if it means hurting or hindering people we love.

Nick Seneca Jankel, Author of Switch On: Unleash Your Creativity and Thrive with the New Science & Spirit of Breakthrough

ally increase to a full hour.

Remind yourself Keep a visual reminder of your resolution handy, whether it be a picture of your football idol on your phone or an inspirational message in your wallet. The only thing that stops you from sticking to your resolutions is yourself.

Don’t over-commit Two words — baby steps. And I mean seriously baby steps. If you want to create a habit that sticks, try breaking down your goal into the smallest possible pieces, then choose the easiest one to start with and allow yourself some time. The trick is to avoid the perilous cycle of over-commitment, misery, overwhelm and defeat.

Dr Georges Petitjean, Founder of Arthur Coaching, whose mission is to promote the coaching of young people.

Think what you’ll gain The real issue with goal setting for most of us is that we tend to state them in the negative: I will give up smoking or I will give up drinking, for example. To stand the greatest chance of succeeding, we need to think about the benefits and focus our mind on those: When I give up smoking I will be healthier, fitter and richer. It is really important to give our brains something positive to focus upon, rather than suggesting we are about to lose something.

Carol Fox, Life coach

Pick the right resolution When choosing a health resolution for the New Year, quitting smoking is the single best thing you can do to protect your heart. Research has shown that a smoker who gives up smoking on January 1, will see their risk of coronary heart disease cut in half by the end of the year. No Smoking Day is on March 11, 2015 and we urge smokers who want to quit to really quit.

Dr Mike Knapton, Associate Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation

Manageable goals Build up gradually to what you want to achieve rather than setting yourself a goal that is unrealistic. For instance, start with 10 minutes exercise per day, building up to 20 minutes until you eventu-

Ailsa Frank, Hypnotherapist and author of Cut the Crap and Feel Amazing

Alison O’Leary, Life coach

Think how good you’ll feel Forget about losing weight; it’s not about how you look (that comes later), but how you feel. Eating a healthy and balanced diet will improve your immune system, organ function and general wellbeing, which results in shiny hair, bright eyes, clear skin, improved energy levels and a smaller waist.

Lily Simpson, Founder of The Detox Kitchen delis and food (UK)

Make it your lifestyle The best way to make a training or fitness goal stick in the New Year is to really try to make it part of your lifestyle. That way it becomes an integral part of what you do rather than something additional that you’re trying to squeeze in around everything else.

If unhealthy snacking is an issue, make sure you buy some healthy snacks such as fruit, nuts and yogurt to keep at work that become your habit rather than a trip to the office vending machine. Planning your nutrition,whether that’s lunches at work, food shopping in advance or having your dinner ready to go in a slow cooker will help you avoid last minute panic buys when you’re hungry and are more likely to make poor choices.

Janey Lee Grace, Holistic life coach

Plan in advance Fail to Plan, Plan to Fail – this

statement is so true. Plan your week out in advance, make sure that you have put your workout kit in your car the night before, and be realistic — there is no point saying you will go to the gym every single day when you know, realistically, that is unlikely to happen.

Simon Alexander Ong, life designer and success strategist

Think about your actions Be mindful — is the food you are eating nourishing or junk food? Is the portion size right? Are you eating when you are full? Are you eating for reasons other than hunger? Keeping these questions in the forefront of your mind can help with making choices about what you eat.

Chris Cheyette, Dietician and author of 5:2 Diet Photos

Reward yourself It is so important to reward ourselves on the way to achieving our goals as well as once we achieve them. This will help us stick to the resolution without having to wait until we achieve our ultimate goal. You hold the keys to your success so it’s important to allow yourself to tap into your potential and to recognise when we have done so.

Penny Davenport, Career mentor

Don’t expect instant results It can be overwhelming to simply state you want to have six packs abs or lose numerous dress sizes, so instead set mini and achievable goals. Too big a goal and you’ll likely give up when making miniscule steps towards achieving it, but achieving 2 labs/week weight loss for a month or being able to run that 5 kilometres morning run 30 seconds faster than you could the month, are all realistic goals. Remember, it takes approximately four weeks for you notice changes to your body, your partner about eight weeks to notice and twelve for the outside world, so stick at it!

-Siobhan Nortan/The Independent

VARIETY HAS been the key in the career of actress Deepika Padukone, who turned 29 onMonday. The New Year will be no different with three movies as different as Piku, Tamasha and Bajirao Mastani slated for release. In Shoojit Sircar’s Piku, she will be seen teaming up with megastar Amitabh Bachchan. She will play his onscreen daughter in the movie which is said to be about the father-daughter relationship. Then in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s epic period drama Bajirao Mastani, Deepika will share screen space with her rumoured boyfriend Ranveer Singh. This apart, she will also scorch the screen with her former beau Ranbir Kapoor in Tamasha. Deepika’s film career started off with a bang in Bollywood with Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Om Shanti Om in 2007. She consolidated her spot among the top rung Hindi film actresses when she gave four back-to-back hits in 2013. In the year gone by too, Deepika continued to rule the hearts of many.

Nargis Fakhri calls birthday boy Uday ‘special’ ACTRESS Nargis Fakhri, who was once upon a time linked to actor Uday Chopra, described the actor-producer as special on his birthday on Monday. “@ udaychopra Happy Birthday Chopra! Hope today is a day as special as you! & may all ur bday wishes come true,” she tweeted.

Back in October, Uday Chopra had also wished the actress on her birthday.

Preity Zinta doles out health tips to followers AT 39, Preity Zinta is fit and glowing. She says it’s easy to be healthy as long as one checks portions of food, drinks water and controls carbohydrate intake. The actress took to Twitter to share that it was last year that she sat up and took notice of the fact that she suffered back ache due to a lack of Vitamin D. “I then found out that most Indians have this deficiency,” she tweeted on Monday. Now she wants her Twitter followers to be fit too. Here’s what she shared: Eat smaller portions of food and at least six to seven small meals. Drink lots of water.

Avoid too much starch and carbohydrates like white bread, pasta and rice. Go for whole wheat or whole grains and brown bread. Avoid fruit juices and eat a whole fruit instead. Fruit juices have too much sugar in them. Too much sugar and salt are terrible for you. Try exercising in the morning on an empty stomach. Brisk walk is amazing for you. -IANS

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FOR RENT

One / Two BR, directly from owner at Bausher. Contact 92158031 2 BHK available in Darsait, 1 B/R and hall, 2 B/R and hall. Contact 99357586, 97500025, 97884787 2 BR flats with split A/C’s & internet free & 2 BR fully furnished deluxe flats available at Al Khuwair near KM Hypermarket. Office space 115 SQ mtr with partition & cassette type A/C’s available at Al Khuwair near KM Hypermarket.

Contact 99460330 Premium 7 bedrooms villa with built up area of 550 SQM is available for immediate lease at Al Ghobrah North. The villa is suitable for office/ residential accommodation and is located adjacent to Hotels vicinity area (behind private preparatory science school). Interested party contact owner directly 99411607 Barber Shop for Rent/Sale in Hail North near Shell Petrol Pump.

Contact : 92864522 , 96448372 1 / 3 BHK Flat Ghobrah, close to ISG Way 4041, building 4390.

Contact 99319880

Fully Equipped Restaurant / Industrial Kitchen for Sale with existing catering orders, CR & Labour Clearance, Restaurant space and Outdoor sitting area on Sale at Mawaleh Call: 9906 4589 Office space with cassette type A/C’s with free internet at al Khuwair near KM Hypermarket. Contact 99460330 Villa, Al Ansab, 5 BHK, living room, split A/C, family only. RO 550/-.

Contact 92479515 Flat in Ghala, opposite Zubair, 2 BHK, living room, split A/C, family only, RO 350/-. Contact 92479515

3 new Villas for rent, located in South Ghubrah behind American School, each has 11 bedrooms including 2 Majlis, 8 bathrooms and kitchen. For residential or institutional rent. Contact 99233729 / 98539366

Fully Furnished ( A/C , Fridge, T.V, Cooking Gas ) 3 rooms in a flat with Kitchen at Azaiba. 2BHK Flats Un furnished at Azaiba next to Al Meera Hyper market ( Families) Contact -99424470 Time : 9 am to 7 pm

5 bedrooms villa with 2 halls, 4 bathrooms in Darsait behind Khimjis Mart. Contact 24700120, 92584715

Fabulous A/C flat Al Khoud, 3 rooms, 280 rials. Contact 99334699

House in North Al Hail with 3 rooms, Majlis & 3 toilets. Contact 99439568

2 single room flats available @ RO 160/- per month, including Electricity & Water. Contact 99441798 New bldg 3 BR flats located at Darsait, Muscat close to Kims Pvt Hospital. Contact 92020004 / 99800838

6 shops in Maabela Industrial Area.

Each Shop OMR 400 Monthly.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

300 SQR mtrs Labor camp or Store for Rent in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 99792181

1 BHK commercial, Darsait, RO 225/-. Contact 97799175

Building of 3 flats each 4 BR, rent RO 2500/-. Contact 99776071 / 99057348

6 bedroom villas at Al Ansab (nr Express highway). Contact 99199365

1,2,3 BHK flats & Villas.

Contact 92144045

Villas & flats & stores. Contact 99776071 / 99057348

We have 1 BHK, 2 BHK, 3 BHK flats, 4, 5 bedrooms villa, open space offices & shops available in Ghala, Ghobrah, Qurum, Mabela, Ruwi, Darsait, Mumtaz, Wadi Kabir. All brand new buildings & very affordable prices.

Contact 93782735 / 99208033

2 BHK Commercial Al Khuwair, RO 375/-. Contact 97799175

Basement for rent behind Bank Muscat at Wadi Kabir. Contact 99373290, 24815012

We have special villa in Bausher, Al Muna, 5 bedrooms, rent RO 800/-.

Contact 99622885

Separate Villa, Al Athaibah, 3 BHK, hall, living room, maid rooms, A/C split, family only, RO 600/-.

Contact 92479515 Villa, Al Khuwair 33, 4 BHK, living room, split A/C, family only, RO 600/Contact 92479515 Warehouse for rent : available for rent in Rusayl Area 2400 SQM with security. Interested parties please contact 91137033, 99386759

3 office spaces available in RUWI FOR RENT 450 OMR & 500 OMR. 96986132 Luxury 2 bed room villa at BausherAL Ansab Phase 3.Call. 99324456 New Building in Muttrah, 2 B/D Room Flat + Setting Room, 3 Baths+ Kitchen with split unit Ac’s. Behind Khimjis main office/opposite to Oman House Call 99419712

Brand new 2BHK with split A/C near SQU round about at Al Khoud, near to Muscat highway, building no. 4558/1, way no. 5350.

Contact 92850717 1 BHK with balcony new bldg, split AC + curtains near Khimjis Mart, MBD. Contact 99061408 / 99024039 Showroom in Barka Market (Souq), 600 sqm. Contact 99342661 3 BHK in PDO Heights, 2nd floor villa, RO 350 with A/C. Contact 99342661 Abu Adnan Tower - flat for rent available at Al Mabelah, 2 B/R, 1 hall, 2 toilets, 1 kitchen. Contact 95566475 / 99654252

Villa 3 BR, 2 sitting room, store, kitchen and 4 bathrooms with A/C in Al Khoudh 3. Contact 94671441 BHK flats Muttrah near Oman House. Contact 97007934 / 92629232 Villa 2 bedrooms & majlis, 2 toilets, kitchen in Mawaleh.

Contact 91376619 Flat for rent 2 bedrooms one hall in South Al Hail. RO 270.

Contact 93221474

2 BHK with A/C near ISM RO.325/1BHK Al Falaj without A/C RO.200/2 BHK with A/C near Kims hospital RO.300/- Darsait commercial or residential with A/C RO.230/- Studio at Al Falaj RO.170/-. 2 BHK without A/C at Wadi Kabir RO.300/Contact - 92144045

2 Bedroom flat at Muscat OMR.180).

Call- 91393005 Studio flat in Ruwi.

Contact 99792181 For rent (flats), 2 bedrooms +hall+kitchen, location: South Al Mawaleh. Contact 99870020 1 / 3 BHK Flat Ghobrah, close to ISG Way 4041, building 4390.

Contact 99319880 Villa, ground floor in Al Khuwair.

Contact 99743569, 97004265

2 BR, 2 toilets, kitchen at Al Mawaleh. Contact 99444786, 99747560

Show room on the main road Saham center total area 450 m sq. Contact: 99366558 / 99334226

300 Sqr mtrs store or labor camp for Rent in Wadi Kabir.

Contact - 99792181

For rent apartments: An apartment in old Muscat at Oman Arab Bank’s building. 3 bedrooms + 3 bathrooms, dining room, living room and a kitchen. Air conditioned apartments.

2 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms, living room, dining room area and kitchen in an excellent location in Al Khuwair opposite the court of first instance. For further information call 97072976

1,000 sq mtrs industrial land in Misfah Industrial area near to Khanco. OMR 1,500 Monthly. Electricty and boundary wall will be provided.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Flat for rent in Al Khuwair consists of 2 bedrooms and living room at RO 350. Contact 99109094 Flats and shops. Contact 93009999

Apartments in Al Khuwair new area each apartment contains (2 bedrooms + living room) for RO 365. Contact 93181111

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DAILY GUIDE

FOR RENT

OFFICES FOR RENT - Premium offices to let a very good location on the main road very close to Zakher Mall, Al Khawiar. Business Center has offices with sizes of 50m2, 110m2, 180m2, 207m2, 230m2, 437m2.

- Showroom also available at Business Center, Area 500m2 with central A/c.

- Offices with Central Air-conditions, Security System with CCTV cameras, and Security presence in the building.

Contact: 97377355 / 95530121, Email id: aaleem@ggcoman.com

FOR RENT

FOR SALE

&KZ Z Ed

ACC. AVAILABLE

New deluxe building in Misfah Industrial Area, 11 shops with A/C, ĞĂĐŚ ϰĐŵ dž ϵĐŵ͕ ĂŶ ĂĚĚŝƟŽŶĂů ϭϮ huge spaces including kitchens and bathrooms which can be used for ŽĸĐĞƐ Žƌ ƌĞƐŝĚĞŶĐĞƐ͘ dŚĞ ďƵŝůĚŝŶŐ ůŽĐĂƟŽŶ ĮƌƐƚ ƌŽǁ ĐůŽƐĞ ƚŽ ŵĂŝŶ ƌŽĂĚ͘

Clean flat available for sharing, two big rooms, independent bath, kitchen sharing, quiet area RO 150, we actually near Al Falaj for small family.

Contact 93218110, semi furnished

Contact - 98880333

Flat for rent in AlKhoudh Suq 3bedrooms, 3bathrooms, kitchen in Ground floor Contact 95151522 Room with separate toilet and WiFi, Wadi Kabir near pencil building.

Contact 93416854

BUYING/SELLING

Flat one bedroom at Al Khuwair 33, owner. Contact 92800007

FOR SALE

Used household furniture and other items for sale. Contact 91566996 Restaurant items on sale, like plates, spoons, soup spoons etc. please contact 93833107 A newly opened Barber Shop for sale at upcoming industrial zone in Misfah. Expat leaving Oman.

Genuine buyers call 93833107 (Sale Price Negotiable) 2 flats building in Al Khuwair 17/1.

Contact 99477009

1BHK Flat For rent MBD area.

Contact 99737812 New Villa for Rent Two floors newly built villa in Maabillah, 8 Fullfledged Residential Area 6 Rooms, 8 Toilets, excellent finishing spacious Kitchen, Big Dining Rooms in Both Floors, Easy Access to Muscat and Sohar using Maabillah Bridge. Contact 92828303 Flats ground floor, 3 Rooms & AC, kitchen, hall, in Al Mabaila South.

Contact 99377290 1 BHK with attached toilet & bathroom behind Bank Muscat at Wadi Kabir. Contact 99373290, 24815012 1 BHK at Ghobrah - Near Indian School. Contact: 99014885 2 B/ R Fully Furnished Executive Apartment @ Al Khuwair 33 Near Zaker Mall. 3 Bedroom Furnished executive apartment @ Al Khuwair 25 5 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished villas at Azaiba with servants, 3 Bedroom Unfurnished Villa @ Mawalah South Area 6 with Servant Quarter, 5 Bedroom Unfurnished Villa @ An Apartment that resembles a penthouse has 2 rooms with 2 toilets, living room & an elegant balcony.

Fully furnished, suited for families.

Final price RO.300/- Mabela 8 near German University.

Contact – 99888400

Restaurant about 250 SQM @ 5/- SQM, heart of Ruwi Market in Plaza Hotel for sale / rent. Contact 99326339 / 24833314 Flats/villas owned by ROP pension fund available for rent in Muscat.

Contact 99349526

Shop for sale near ONTC bus stand Ruwi near Sun City Hotel on main road.#99326339 / 24789801

Building of 3 floors with 20 rooms in Mawaleh near Pizza Hut. Contact 99044164

HOUSEHOLD, SALES, Ghubra: Sofa 3x3, King Bed, Multi Gym, GymBike, Microwave, Table, Racks, Mixi, AttaKneader, Contact: 95053480

1 BHK & Single room in Wadi Kabir.

RO 180/-. Contact 99376454 Al Qurum heights Sea view.

Contact - 99249069 / 92888376/ 93201688 For rent shops and offices in Al Mabela. Contact 99355330 Furnished & unfurnished deluxe 2 BHK flats with split A/Cs, fixed wardrobes, kitchen appliances, CCTV, security access system & secured car park, opposite Kims Hospital, Al Falaj. Contact 99657906 or 24702141 Industrial Land in Misfah.

Contact 93009999 2 BHK at Al Azaiba, Building No.5145 Way 4470. Contact 99224748, 99425665 2 BHK with A/C, commercial Al Khuwair. Contact 92144045

Sale!, all household items, like fridge, freezer, cooking range, washing machine, window/split A/Cs, LCD TV, Laptop, tab and many more for attractive prices. Location : near Toyota service Center, Honda Road.

Contact - 97048983, 95293643 Port cabins – New & refurnished Porta cabin for sale and rent.

Contact 96723468 Tables, chairs & shfandish for sale.

Call 99368907 Well running Computer / Mobile Sale & Service Shop. Good location in Darsait with 2 clearances.

Contact 98523634 Household items on sale.

Contact 93833107 Darsait Business Office furniture, Isuzu 4 ton brand new.

Contact 91391363

Running Electrical Building Material Shop for sale in Muscat.

Contact 95330905 3 floor Commercial building in Muttrah behind Police. Generating income of OMR 20 Thousand annually. Neat and well maintained. Built on 197 sq mtrs land. 2 tailor shops on ground floor and 6 flats.

OMR 207 Thousand.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Flats for Sale in Boushar: OMR 35 Thousand 1 bedroom. OMR 45 Thousand 2 bedroom. Monthly income 1 bedroom OMR 270 and 2 bedroom OMR 350. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 23,886 Sq Mtrs Agriculture land with water well in Al Salwa, Barka.

OMR 260 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Restaurant for leasing/sale in Al Hail. Contact 94148970, 94148972, 97820877

ACC. AVAILABLE 2 Bedroom flat for offices with furniture near Al Manaf Hotel, Ghala.

Contact 99525743, 99439705 Excellent 3 bedrooms , 2 sitting rooms, 3 bathrooms, kitchen & store with A/C. 92817777

Looking for purchase of Used Portable Compressor (350 CFM, 7 Bar Pressure) powered with Diesel run Generator.

Kindly Contact 99014686 or operation@khancogroup.com Looking for commercial lands for sale in Al Ghobrah North (urgent serious buyers, commercial lands in al Ghobrah North (corners prime location). Contact 91155779 Used household & office furniture and electronic items. Contact 99834373, 97102699

AVAILABLE Established Restaurant for rent with sponsorship. # 97628242 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. www.tunesoman. com, E-mail: info@tunesoman.com

ACC. AVAILABLE Independent rooms in Qurum / Al Hail. Contact 95529970 Single room with sharing kitchen (expat only) couple / ex-bachelor at Al Khuwair. Contact 94143636 Room + balcony + separate toilet for non cooking single Indian Bachelor, RO 140/-. Contact 98928458 Furnished single room with attached bathroom near Mars Hypermarket, Al Ghubrah. Contact 97312111, RO 150/- per month Single room available for exclusive bachelors in Azaiba and Ghubrah and complete ground floor with kitchen facility bedroom and hall in Darsait. Contact 98048207, 99261773

Room with separate entrance & A/C in Al Khuwair near Rawasco for noncooking Indian Bachelor, rent RO 125/-. Contact 97201100, 95397442 Office space near KFC, Al Khuwair, office basement near Mars, Al Ghubrah, double & single bedroom flat Al Ghubrah near Mars and Wadi Kabir near Lulu. Contact 95755551 / 92222045 Room available in Al Khuwair with sharing kitchen and bathroom for matured person near Blu Radisson Hotel. Contact 96930219 Single room at Walja, opposite MBD area available for executive bachelors or single working woman for OMR 100. Contact 93079877 Single room with sharing kitchen for Executive bachelor or working lady, Ruwi, in front of Apollo Hospital.

Contact 98232567 / 91673718 Furnished room in CBD Area for non-cooking bachelor free Wi-Fi, advance deposit call 99078540

NOTICE Sohar International for Supply & Subsistence L.L.C which is recorded under the commercial register in directorate general for trade industry number 1115893 is going to change its name to Sohar International Achievement for Trad L.L.C . This is to inform anybody who concerns about that.

Samaa Syria for Trad ASSO which is recorded under the commercial register in directorate general for trade industry number 1154941 is going to change its name to Mazaya Al yasmeen for Trad ASSO . This is to inform anybody who concerns about that.

Mrwan Al Eidi & Salmeen Al Balushi for Trad joint which is recorded under the commercial register in directorate general for trade industry number 1007867 is going to change its name to Husoon Al Soor United for Trad joint . This is to inform anybody who concerns about that.

D4

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DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

SITUATION WANTED

SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT

ADMIN/HR

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE

Indian male MBA 32 yrs having 10 yrs of exp seeking suitable placement in Admin/ HR/ Operations/ Coordination/ Logistics etc.

Holding valid Oman D/L .

Contact - 99054786

Indian Male, qualified ICWA, M.com with 2years experience in accounts, costing, auditing & SAP in reputed listed companies, seeks suitable placements. Mob: 94619453 Email: cmashahidkt@gmail.com.

Omani Man looking for a job with experience in HR/ Admin/ accounting. kindly contact me on: 99767666

Indian female, 25 yrs, B.Com with computer Application, 1 yr experience as Accountant, looking for suitable job. Contact 98847165

Graduate Indian female having 5+ Years Oman experience in Admin/Procurement/Logistics with excellent computer skills(PGDCA).

Seeking suitable Placement.NOC available.Contact:95382966

Indian Male 25 years B.Com having 3 years of exp of Oman in Accounts/Administration.Well versed with computer knowledge looking for suitable position. Immidiately available. Contact:93207867 email:tambeazhar@gmail.com

Indian Male MBA Graduate 9 years experienced in Administration ,HR ,Operations, Finance /Accounts and Marketing, seeking suitable position.

Currently on visit and ready to join immediately. Contact: 92493110 Indian male having NOC with 7 yrs Oman exp in recruitment, on boarding, general admin. Immediate joining. Contact - 96684424 Indian Male MBA 32 yrs having 8+ yrs of Exp (GCC, AFRICA), urgently looking job in HR/Admin/ /Operation/Purchase/Academics / BD. Now on visit visa, NOC available, join immediately. Contact 94535618, 95930705 Indian female with excellent communication skills, confident, dedicated to work and enthusiastic.

Knowledge about ms office. Has 6 years of experience in customer service, telecommunication, HR.Looking for immediate placement. Contact # 97348819 Pakistani Male, 27 yrs, MBA in HR, BBA in Marketing and Finance having 2 yrs experience in Sales and Admin, on family visit till 15 February looking for suitable position.

Contact 94543222, email: wajid_rais@hotmail.com

ADMIN Looking for smart / dynamic, male for front desk office, preference fluency in English. Contact 95176500 (Salalah) A reputed 3 star hotel in Muscat requires qualified Omani Nationals for front office, security and food and beverage departments.

Interested candidates please contact 99061335, email : agm@hotelgoasis.com Omani Female receptionist wanted. Location Ruwi. Contact - 24781011/1101 Ext 107

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE SALES / MARKETING ENGINEERS STRUCTURAL ENGINEER (full time) Responsibilities: To work with architect, To provide of construction issue documentation for a projects.

Desired candidate Profile: min of 3-5 years experience in Structural Design, Should be AutoCAD competent. Please send your CV to Email: info@pak2pak.com Tel. 99196733, 99419766

OFFICE/ SEC ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Required experienced Accountant Tally, excellent English & driving license. Contact – omanlaw.om@gmail.com / 24497762 / 92192510

ARCHITECT For reputed Consultancy at Al Ghubrah, Muscat requires Bachelor of Architect with minimum 10 yrs experience. Send your CV to email : almoheetgroups@gmail.com, Mr. Gireesh : 95265198, Mr. Raju : 99102175, fax : 24499913.

DRIVER Urgently required light car drivers for a VIP service Company.

Preferred Philipino National.

Contact 98266319.

Email : lord.ofarts@yahoo.com Needed 2 drivers, offering good salary. Contact 99441798 Required driver for a Company in Ghala, preferably English speaking & present in Oman. Contact 99454425 Wanted driver. Contact 95112461

DESIGNER Looking for an Interior Designer with knowledge of AutoCAD 2D & 3D, basic Microsoft Office and can handle accounts. Contact 95342240, 97670666, Email CV at bhatiahmed@gmail.com

DOMESTIC HELP Required House maid urgently in Al Khuwair (Indian or Srilanka).

Contact. 96103792.

Required Housemaid for Indian family, Visa will be provided. # 94291473

Looking for smart/ dynamic male for front desk office, pref. fluency in English.# 95176500 (Salalah)

A logistics company located at Sohar, requires Candidate for the post of marketing and accounts.

Valid Oman License and experience is added qualification.

Contact: 99381 82, 24499091, Email: info@excellenceoman.com Required Marketing Executive with experience female / male (Arabic or English) in PR for a media & advertising company.

Email : job08080@gmail.com Highly reputed Perfume Company requires Omani Sales girl promoters.

Contact 95663682, 92956876

A reputed Oil & Gas Supplies Company is looking for Sales/Marketing in-charge personnel. Send your CV to : rahbi_mohd@yahoo.com A leading Fibreglass Products Manufacturing Company, required experienced GRP Technicians, Factory In-charge and Sales Executive.

Interested candidates please email CV to cvjobsmuscat@gmail.com Required an experienced person who has ideas to start a new business in electrical field or supply with minimum cost.

Contact 99426421

SIT. WANTED MECH/ TECHNICALCAL Urgently required an experienced person in gliding, fixing & installation works at buildings, for a well established advertisement co.in Sohar. Send your CV to : mohammed.tauseef2@gmail.com younis.alshezawi@live.com, Call : 96367342,95728453

MEDICAL General practitioner Doctor is required to work urgently in Dreams Clinic at Al Khoudh and must be resident in the Sultanate of Oman.

Please send your CV to the following email: towershr70@gmail.com, balushi70@gmail.com & info@towersinternationalgroups. com, Mobile 99882340, Tel: 24545914 Urgently required Male Nurses and Lab Technicians for a reputed medical center in Muscat, email : jobsoman001@gmail.com, Ph : 93217982 Dentist required to work urgently in dreams clinic at Al Khoud and must be resident in Sultanate of Oman.

Please send your CV to the following email – towershr70@gmail.com / balushi70@gmail.com / info@towersinternationalgroups.com Mobile – 99882340 / 24545914 Urgently required temporary/permanent General Physician & Gynecology Doctors. Contact 96064925, kunoozghala@gmail.com

SALES / MARKETING Required Salesman, Tailor and barber. Contact 91114884

Pakistani male 32 years IT network + Computer Hardware professional A+ MCSE Termination Technician work Experience in Salalah airport.

10+ years experience in IT field and 2 years Oman working experience looking for a suitable placement contact no 96733205 Email faisalzaman24@gmail.com Indian Male, 23 years MBA (Marketing) (6 months experience as a Sales and Operation Officer looking for suitable job. Contact 99106181, Email: akram8145@gmail.com Civil Engineer, Indian Female, having one year experience in Quantity Survey, also knows AutoCAD, primavera etc seeks placement.

Contact 91690345 IT software professional looking for a suitable position in Desktop/Web application development. Visit www. muhammedswafuvan.weebly.com for more details. Reach me on (+968) 98395032.

Indian female with nine years of experience in 5 Star hotels as Assistant Food & Beverage Manager looking for a suitable placement in a reputed Star hotel. #91219787 Over 19 years of qualitative experience in automobile field. Expert in providing technical advice on repairs and servicing. Seeking jobs in sales/ servicing/managerial field. Contact 968-91176187, 0091-7736048460, yamaharajesh@gmail.com.

Indian male 27, CA inter 3years experience in accounts seeking placement. Contact 98494423.

Email. juss619tin@gmail.com

Indian B.E Mechanical Engineer with level 2 certification in QA/ QC having experience in maintenance engineering,piping,pipe line engineering and welding inspection.

Looking for suitable job Contact : 91360997/99257867 Email: binukoshydaniel@gmail.com Indian female looking for a part time accounts job in capital area only. Knows Tally. # 95482970.

20 years experience in Indian Air force with Mechanical Engineering diploma. 5 years in Administration 5 years experience in handling general engineering tool store management. 8 years in banking cash management service. #95451097. jacobsam2010@gmail.com Telecom Engineer with 8 yrs exp from India in IT Networking seeks suitable opportunities now in Oman. Contact 99002635 Emal : sibinkumar.acharya@gmail.com Indian Male: B.COM, 4 years experience in Accounts, in Manufacturing Co Oman, Working Knowledge With Tally ERP- With Oman valid D/L,Presently working in Muscat NOC Available Looking for Suitable position in Reputed Company, Contact; 95745287 and Email: raiforeveryone@rediffmail.com Civil Engineer Diploma, 6 years experience in Oman #97415597.

Diploma in civil engineering having an experience 23years (19years in Oman) experience in Estimator / quantity surveyor looking for a suitable placement.

Willing to join immediately Contact: 96328687.

Finance & Accounts manager based in Oman with multi-faceted experience in Finance, Costing, Audit ,Erp software implementation with over 18 yrs of post qualification experience in leading Gulf/ India based Companies involved in Construction, Contracting, Manufacturing, Trading activities. I am seeking suitable challenging position in leading coys/Groups in Oman.

Please contact mobile no-+968 99601390 or 92209357 or email vr6954@gmail.com for detailed experience Male Indian, 28 yrs MBA Finance, 3 yrs Building Material & Structural Steel Sales experience Omani Driving License. NOC available.

Contact 98840669 / 97162513 Pakistani Male, 26 yrs, MS-Supply Chain & Project Management, BSFinance & Business Administration, +2 yrs experience in Trading Firm responsible for Supply Chain & Accounts. Skills including strong operation managerial Communication & interpersonal, fluent in English, SAP and EPM. Contact 94663827, email : musadiqfayyaz@gmail.com

Accounts Assistant B.Com having 4 yrs of exp in accounts, well versed with computer languages like C, C++, SQL, HTML, VB Networking. Seeks suitable placement.#93995483 Finance Manager, CPA, with more than 15 yrs. of experience in GCC. Fully knowledgeable in Finance, General & Management Accounting .

NOC available. Contact 96209331 Indian Male, MBA 2 yrs experience in Accounts, Admin & HR on visit visa. Contact 92045306 B.Com Graduate, 5 yrs experience, Indian male 26 yrs, looking for Accountant job. Contact 93975526, email : afsarsabith@yahoo.com Indian male, 32 years, M. Com.7 out of 9 years experience in Oman in Accounts/finance. Having NOC and valid Oman D/L. Contact 98277143, Email: anzarks@gmail.com India Accountant: Male, M com, 7 Yrs experience in Accounts up to finalization, having knowledge of ERP, Tally, seeks suitable placement. Contact:93950138 Email: lijinrajan123@gmail.com Indian Male, 28 yrs old B.Com having 7 yrs experience (3 yrs in MCT) looking for a suitable placement in Accounts / Sales currently on visit visa. Contact 93128830, email: gopusree.gopu407@gmail.com Indian female, 25 yrs, bachelors of businesses management, having experience of 5 years as a fund/financial administration, on visit visa,looking for suitable placement.#94662416 Apurwaverma@gmail.com 26 hrs Indian Accountant with 2 years experience, B.Com, seeking suitable position, available immediately, contact No:9821 3292, e-mail: Indite2faraaz@gmail.com

DESIGNER Indian male, 8 yrs GCC experience in 3D & Architectural Designing with D/L. Contact 97263199 Interior Designer, UAE Experience, Knows Photoshop, Corel draw etc..

Ph : 97103168 Interior Designer, UAE Experience, Knows Photoshop, Corel draw etc..

Ph : 97103168

DRIVER

Accountant / Auditor, Srilankan male 27, having 3+ yrs experience looking for suitable placement.

Contact 93556320

Light Driver having own visa looking for job as driver #92303692

Accounts Finalization, Part Time Accounting, Audit Preparation, Internal Audit, Onsite Tally Training, Onsite Training for Accountants, Inventory Management.

Contact : 94669089, email : ibfcoman@hotmail.com

6 Years experience light duty driver.

Contact – 96736744

Accountant, 4 yrs experience in Oman, NOC available.

Contact 96799714 Accountant, 2 yrs experience (purchasing, coordinator) with D/L and NOC. Contact 94174403 B.Com, 6 yrs experience in finance & accounts operations at Mumbai, currently on visit visa, looking for suitable position. Contact 95941675 / 94302309.

Email : mayurparmar83@gmail.com Indian male, Accountant, 7 yrs experience in Oman having valid Omani Driving License seeking suitable placement. NOC available.

Contact 91208949 Indian male MBA, 29 yrs having 3+ years of exp (India) urgently looking for job in financial services, accounting, administrator. Now on visiting visa, NOC available, join immediately. Contact 92187116

Driver with car. Contact 96954496

Indian driver need job with car.

Contact 91254539 Light vehicle driver available.

Contact 96756014 / 97938893 Light driver looking for job.

Contact 96794309 / 98335778 Bangladeshi male light vehicle driver, looking for job. #93113447 Pakistani male light vehicle driver 2 yrs exp. Contact - 96342684 Light driver looking for job.

Contact 92791678

DRAUGHTSMAN Auotcad, Well Experienced, Arch, Stucture, knows 3D, Revit Photoshop Ph : 97103168 Civil Draughtsman, Indian Male, 23 yrs with 3yrs experience in AutoCAD 2D & 3D, MEP, HVAC, 3Ds Max and Photoshop looking for suitable position, presently in Muscat, Oman on visit visa. # 91764358, mohdsiraj02@yahoo.com

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D5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED ENGG. / TECHNICAL Indian male, 26 yrs B-Tech (ECE) with MBA in Marketing / HR looking for a suitable placement. Currently on visit visa valid up to 30 January 2015. Contact 93754428, email : shijosirius709@gmail.com Sudanese Civil Engineer, 10 yrs experience 4 yrs in Oman in Government Projects Supervision looking for a job with D/L. Contact 96966790 Civil Engineer (Diploma) looking for an urgent placement.

Contact 95200650 Civil Engineer (Fresher from NIT) skilled in Autocad & Primavera, holding oman D/L seeks suitable placement. Contact -97309804, Email-nizam.m5@hotmail.com Diploma of Associate Civil Engineering, Diploma of AutoCad, having 3.5 yrs experience, 2 yrs experience of Oman in Building Construction, valid transferrable ID Card.

Contact 94378581 B.Tech Civil Engineer, Indian, 16 yrs in Oman with experience in PDO Road Pipelines building with Omani D/L looking for suitable placement.

Contact 98005456 A , M Tech GEO TECHNICAL ENGINEERING Lady Engineer PRIMAVERA - STADD holder on visit seeks suitable opening - preferably Sohar area Contact 91277256 satishcharuvil@gmail.com BE Civil Engineer, 5 yrs experience.

NOC available. Contact 98970233 Diploma in Civil Engineer, 15 yrs Oman experience (total 28 yrs) looking for senior position with valid D/L, NOC available. Contact 99013465 B.Sc in Civil Engineering, 2 yrs experience (1 yr 3 months in Oman + 10 months in Bangladesh) knowing AutoCAD, MS Office & detailing, fluent speaker in English, Hindi and Bangla. # 94038642 Email : shaikhhasib.ce@gmail.com Indian male, 24 yrs, BE (Electronics & Electrical) with 2 yrs experience seeking suitable placement.

Contact 98201244 DAE (Civil) having 3.5 years Experience 2 years from Oman with driving licences, seeking for suitable position in Construction field NOC and release available Contact 96968554 mehranahmad26@yahoo.com M. Tech Electrical Eng. Female, now in visit visa. Contact +968-94654481.

B. Tech Civil Eng. 3 yrs exp in Oman with driving license.

Contact +968-93733627.

Mail id : joinvisam@gmail.com, neethusprakash@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer, Gold Medalist, B.Tech with 3.5 yrs experience in Thermal Gas Power Plant in LDO, HFO Pipeline Fabrication erection boiler banker turbine. GSM: 97025338 Email : warisheyat329@gmail.com Presently in Oman on visit visa.

Civil Engineer B Tech , Site engineer Experienced, Drafting on Visit Visa Ph : 91642050 Indian Male, IT Support Engineer, 2 yrs in Oman & 5 yrs Indian experience. Contact 97311847 Quantity Surveyor (Civil Building) looking for Part time job Contact no:-94391712 E-mail addressinayathhussain@yahoo.com B.Tech Engineer QA/QC, 7 yrs GCC Oil & Gas experience API.570 CSWIP 3.1 NDT Level 2 seeking placement in Oman. NOC available.

Contact sajinrj009@gmail.com Female, 26 yrs, B.Tech in Mechanical Engineer with 3 yrs experience in Piping Stress Analysis in Oil & Gas Sector, currently on family visa, looking for a placement. #95890939, email : rita.debnath682@gmail.com BE Mechanical, 9 yrs experience in Sales & Business Development, Oil & Gas equipments like pumps etc.

Contact 91139771

Civil Engineer B Tech, Site Engineer Experienced, Drafting on Visit Visa Ph : 91642050 Sudanese Mechanical Engineer, 3 yrs experience as Sit Engineer, HVAC System, and driving license, easy to transfer immediately.

Contact 91135140 B.E Civil 5 yrs exp (2 yrs in India) 2 yrs Oman & 1 year in Qatar. Salary expected RO.500/- above.

Contact - 94412557 B.Tech Indian Female, Electrical Engineer, 2 yrs experience in Kiriloskar Electric Co. & KSEB looking for suitable position.

Contact 94564078, Email: elnaj19@gmail.com Looking Part time Job in HVAC93198128 Indian Male, 22 yrs, B.Tech, Marine Engineer, presently on visit visa seeks suitable placement.

Contact 93191777, email: ask.akash@gmail.com Experienced female Electrical Engineer.Contact 93800906

EDUCATION Currently working as Lecturer of IT, (M.Sc IT) (M Phil computer Science) having experience for more than 5 years, looking for suitable placement. Contact 91105949

INFORMATION TECH IT Technical Support Engineer, 3 yrs experience in Networking, specializing in DHCP,DNS,NTP etc also Desktop level 3 helpdesk. jeni_personal@yahoo.co.uk 94525630 B.Tech IT Professional, Indian Male with 3 yrs of Exp. In System Admin, IT Support, Networking, Installing Active Directory, DHCP, DNS,RAS, configuring maintaining and managing servers, configuring cisco routers, Exp in handling SQL database, With Valid Driving Licence. Contact - 968 98863507 Indian Male 23 yrs – IT / Prepost Sales Consultant / Business Analyst / Web Designing. 2 yrs. exp. Languages-HTML5, WebRTC, Java, CSS, C++, .Net, SQL, Oracle, ERP-Microsoft Dynamics CRM. Looking for suitable job. Contact: 98802504, email:shrihari26@gmail.com Indian male, 23 yrs, having 1 yr experience in IT hardware & networking & 3 months in Oman, currently on visit visa, qualification B.Sc Electronics CCNA, MCITP, RHCE. ph : 92089719 Email : sujithvijayan119@gmail.com, Dual expertise – programming / networking, Indian male, 25 yrs, B.E, Computer Science, CCNA, certified, 2 yrs experience in programming, databases, server / network support & administration. Contact 91770547, mudassirdf@gmail.com IT Professional, Indian male, B.Sc Graduate with 4+ yrs Gulf (UAE) good exp in System Administration, IT Support, Server Desktop, laptop, smartboard, datashow biometric, CCTV, currently on visit visa.

Contact 98936548, vaseemj@yahoo.com Female, B Tech (Software Professional), Oracle SQL .NET Database, Experienced (Teaching & Engg) Ph: 94550127 IT Prof, MCA having 6+ yrs exp, seeks suitable position.

Contact 94543668

MISCELLANEOUS

SALES / MARKETING

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR Indian male Graduate with 20+ years of Administration, Operations & Management experience in IT, Oil & Gas & Hospitality Industry. 12 years in Oman with vast contacts, very strong management, operational, communication and interpersonal skills, can handle any size of business and projects whether it’s in initial stage or established. Can join immediately. Local release available on request. Contact: 9906 4589 Indian male Graduate with 20+ years of Administration, Operations & Management experience in IT, Oil & Gas & Hospitality Industry. 12 years in Oman with vast contacts, very strong management, operational, communication and interpersonal skills, can handle any size of business and projects whether it’s in initial stage or established. Can join immediately. Local release available on request. Contact: 9906 4589 Looking for job, holding valid Oman Driving License, experience in food & beverage, McDonalds & Retail Starbucks Coffee, UAE. Working now as House Manager in HB Excellency house Muscat. Contact 93407470, email : sanjeevmulla@gmail.com General Manager / working partner 20 years in Dubai adverting agency experience. Contact 93031168 Management Professional, expertise in team building operations, project management, leadership, writing on visit visa till 19th January 2015. Contact 93516436, email: dsouza.amit@gmail.com Qualified Manager: (12+ yrs. Oman Exp.) Vast knowledge in A/c & Admin, Costing, Banking, Credit Control, Insurance, International Purchase/ Logistics & Finance, With D/L looking for suitable position. Contact: jskanchan01@gmail.com , Gsm: 93826090

Civil Engineer (B.Tech), Indian Male, 24 yrs with 1+ yrs Indian experience (Certified in Quantity Survey/Primavera/AutoCAD) looking for a suitable position, available in Sultanate of Oman (Muscat) on visit visa. Contact 91303860, email: mdayubmak@gmail.com

Welder 6g 3g, Gulf Experienced Ph : 97103168

Jordanian Engineer Electrical 7 yrs exp. Consulting, site & shop drawing works. Ready to join immediately.

Worked in UAE & Saudi Arabia.

Contact - 00971555594733

Indian female with nine years of experience in 5 Star hotels as Assistant Food & Beverage Manager looking for a suitable placement in a reputed Star hotel.Contact: 91219787

Autocad 3Dmax , Photoshop Ph : 97103168

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR

15 years experience in Business Development , marketing, purchase – UAE & Oman-staff coordination, documentation, civil & technical maintenance, -valid GCC license-looking for working partnership or management post. Contact:91568362 / Email vpj555pem@gmail.com Sales Executive with driving license, 5 yrs experience in IT seeks job. Contact 94263243, website : www.gulzeb7.webs.com Indian Male, B.Tech E&I, 10 yrs experience in Sales, Procurement, BDM. 6 yrs Oman experience in Oil & Gas Sector. Seeking suitable placement. Oman D/L, NOC available. Contact 97233074 Indian Male, MBA in Marketing and Finance, 10 years’ Sales & Business Development Experience with valid D/L of Oman & UAE looking for a suitable placement. NOC Available.

Contact: 93969961 e-mail abhilash.pvrk@gmail.com

SECRETARIAL/OFFICE

Indian male Pharmacist (B.Pharma) 5 1/2 years experience in Oman seeking suitable placement in Muscat. NOC from the present employer available.

CONTACT +968 98525100 Indian female Nurse, prometric passed, 64%. Contact 97916986, 96146016, 22068598 Indian Female, Dentist fresher looking for suitable placement.

Contact 98857686, email : drsumbulahmad@gmail.com Pharmacist-Indian female having MOH license looking for new opportunities. On family visa valid up to Aug 2016. Contact: 92247993 Lab Technician, Civil (8yrs Gulf experience) looking for a suitable job (NOC available) Contact-93344378

SKILLED / UNSKILLED Civil foreman maintenance D/L, 12 yrs in Oman, 2 yrs in Kuwait.

Contact 96405865, 99534138, India - +91 7589248550, +91 9464255409, email: sukhwinder9@yahoo.com

Indian male, 22 yrs, BBM Graduate looking for suitable job in sales/ marketing, currently on visit visa.

Contact 91757222, email : danishdani460@gmail.com Male, 26 yrs, M.Com, last 1 yr & 9 months in sales with Oman Driving License seeking for sales job.

Contact 95116991 Sales & Marketing Indian male MBA (marketing & sales) business development experience at all levels of management. Currently on visit visa. Contact – 91272819 Indian Male, 7 yrs experience in building materials trading having Oman D/L, immediate release available. Contact 98676713

More than 10 years experience in Sales & Marketing, Insurance, Direct marketing, Advertisement, Credit Control & logistics.

Contact: 99322748, 91071097 Post Graduate Engineer with 5+ years experience in Project Planning & Management currently on visit visa looking for a Project Co-ordinator/Planning Engineer position in reputed organizations.

Please contact (968) 96105079 MECHANICAL ENGINEER (B Tech), Indian Mail, with NDT Level 2(ASNT), Autocad, Solidworks, 2 year above experience (as Mechanical Site Engineer and Design Engineer), Seeking suitable placement(on visit visa). Contact: 91591548, 00919447300022, Email: vishnu300022@gmail.com

Indian male, 44 yrs, experience 22 yrs office boy, job required, NOC available. Contact 96162171

3 Years experienced Administrative Executive seeking for Virtual Admin Opportunities. Can work for 6 hours/day from a virtual location for 100 RO/month. Call: 95811820

Indian female, well experienced in secretarial, administration, customer care & supervisory jobs.

5 years experience in Muscat.

Immediately available for joining.

Contact: 92139298

Indian Female, Graduate having good experience looking for suitable job. NOC available.

Contact 91774397

MEDICAL

Welder 6g, 3g, Tig, KSA Experienced Ph : 97103168

Building Caretaker, Gulf exp, knows Arabic, Hindi Ph : 91218278

18 yrs Oman experience in Building Materials seeking suitable placement, NOC available.

Contact 93105775

MISCELLANEOUS

SALES / MARKETING

Logistics Officer, Experience in Store keeping. Contact : 99505934

Pakistani male, 34, College 2 yrs, 2 yrs experience as Sales Representative, 3 yrs experience as Clerk / Office Assistant, 3 yrs experience as Salesman in Oman, Computer Skill : Excel, BUSY, ERP, languages known – English, Arabic, Hindi and Urdu.

Contact 96763346

3 Years experienced Administrative Executive seeking for Virtual Admin Opportunities. Can work for 6 hours/day from a virtual location for 100 RO/month.

Call: 95811820 Filipino Accountant with 13 years working experience in the field of accounting looking for a suitable job in Muscat. Contact: 94547323 Tunisian women looking for job, khnows english, frensh, Italian and arabic. Contact: 91171838 28 year Indian male with 7yrs(5yrs in Oman) of experience in Accounts & Finance up to finalisation in Construction Oil & Gas and also in Manufacturing industries with Oman D/L seeking suitable placement.

Contact me on 97104364 email: Moorthy_cbe@hotmail.com Structural Engineer with 14 years experience in structural design and supervision fields with full knowledge of structure design programs, Omani D/L, seeking a reputed engineering consultancy office vacancy Tel. 96248598.

Indian female dentist with 4 year experience. Call Nazia 96488737 Manager Maintenance/Engineering/Purchase, 31 yrs. exp. in mechanical, electrical, electronics, parts fabrication, purchase deptt, oman exp. 5yrs, have NOC, looking for job. Contact pkv2k3@yahoo.com, 99331289 Indian Male, 31 years of Rich Oman experience in Multifunctional Management, Administration, Business Development, Purchase & Operations seeking suitable Manager/Supervisory Position.

Visa transfer/NOC Available.

GSM: 95036410 Indian Male, B.COM, ICWA, CMA Australia, 24 years experience in finance, costing, accounts, internal audit. Valid Oman driving license.

NOC available.

Can join immediately.

Contact 97917136

Indian male, 28 yrs in Civil Engineer (Diploma), 3 yrs experience in Gulf seeking suitable chances.

Contact 92063150 22 Indian Female, BCA (MCA), 4 Years’ Experience in Teaching, Training & Management of Office and Computer Applications, looking for suitable vacancy in the field of Teaching/IT/Office Management Contact – 94540768, Email – paipreethi01@gmail.com Indian Male Graduate 20 yrs in Oman, Accountant / Business Property Management seeking suitable position in Accounts / Administration working knowledge with TALLY. Valid Omani Driving License. Contact 99817183 Indian male 2 years experience in Light & Heavy motor vehicle Mechanic. Diesel & Petrol. Seek suitable placement Contact 99421537.

Indian Female 23 years M.Com Graduate on visit visa having four month experience as an Accountant in a company at Muscat. Looking for a suitable job. Immediately available for joining. Contact: 95846642, Email:shreedhanya916@gmail.com 28 years male, MBA in Marketing, 5 years experience in Marketing and Brand Promotion. On visit, looking for job. Contact: 96104833 B.Tech. (Civil), 2 years experience in designing, and training corporate professionals in Dubai in software, presently working in India, seeks suitable job opening. madhunambiarm@hotmail.com Indian female, 34 yrs, B.A, B.Ed (S.S), DCA, Doing M.A by distance, having 6 yrs experience in School (5 yrs in Indian School, Oman).

Contact 98728700, 92458872 Indian female 24 yrs, MBA (finance) (1 year experience as administrator cum junior level accountant looking for suitable job & holding visiting visa. Contact 97481488, Email: ayeshaowasi12345@gmail.com Indian Female, IATA, BSc looking for suitable placement.

Contact 95514305.

Email-jitureshmi@gmail.com

Hotel Manager, Indian male, 25 years exp. in Budget & 3 Star Hotel, with Omani Driving License , Seeks Placement. NOC/Release Available. Contact: 99799774, Email: smoin_moinsb@yahoo.co.in M. Sc. Medical lab technician (Prometric passed) having 6 years experience in India. Currently on visit, looking for a suitable placement. Please contact 97248144, samiullah_ar@yahoo.co.in.

Project Manager civil, Indian, seeking suitable placement, having 18 yrs exp (13 yrs in Oman) in tendering, contracting and managing projects, available with release. Contact: 99244245, 95321251 Admin Executive, 31, Indian Male, having 8+ years exp. in reputed companies, seeking suitable placement in any gulf region. Contact +968 99276601 & 97693456. Email: muralimahdav77@gmail.com Indian male -39, Graduate 15 years experience in FMCG sales and marketing and logistics operations with valid driving license looking suitable placement. Contact 92090949 Mechanical Engineering Post Graduate with 10+ years work experience looking for a suitable immediate opening in construction, oil& gas, and other related companies, currently on visit visa.

Contact: 92975815 Indian Male 26years BCOM having 5years rich experience in Accounts and Admin looking for suitable placement. Contact : 96897914340, 00919902200486 Email: sudhakaranchan06@gmail.com Indian male QA/QC Engineer-Civil (BE,ACQE)on visit visa, 10 years of experience in building construction projects in Qatar & U.A.E., holding valid GCC driving license.

Mobile: 93958533, E-mail: sheikhnavid@yahoo.com Indian Male 24 years, looking for a Suitable Job in Telecom / Networking. 1 year sales experience. MSc. Communications Engineering & Valid Driving license. Ph: 99027504.

Email: jackrprasad@yahoo.com BCA graduate, 2 years experience in JAVA and .NET development looking for a suitable job. Mob. 98395032.

For CV visit ‘http://muhammedswafuvan.weebly.com Indian male executive secretary having vast experience in Admin, Logistics & procurement well versed with computer . seek suitable placement.

Contact: 99514286 Manager Maintenance/Workshop/Purchase, 31 yrs. exp. in mechanical, electrical, electronics, parts fabrication, purchase dep’t, oman exp. 5yrs, have NOC, looking for job. Pls. contact pkv2k3@yahoo.com, 99331289 Senior Accounts Professional, Indian Male, 35 years, M.Com, MBA (Fin) 8 years in Oman, with valid Oman DL and NOC available.

Capable to handle accounts up to finalization. Contact 9602 3965.

Civil engineer B.E, Indian male, having 18 yrs exp 11 yrs in Oman, with valid D/L, seeking suitable placement release available.

Contact_95321251, 99244245, kader_fz99@yahoo.co.in

D6

T U E S D AY, JA N UA RY 6, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

EVERY FRIDAY 2.00PM ON INDIA’S KAIRALI PEOPLE TV

● Worldwide ● Air Ticket ● Car Rental ● Holiday Packages ● Hotel Reservations ● Travel Insurance Call: 0096824790400, 0096898569830 Email: info@omanorienttravels.com

SITUATION WANTED 26,male, ACCA finalist, exp. upto finalisation of accounts, statutory and internal audit, expertise in using tally and focus & oracle software, have 2 years exp. in accounts till finalisation and statutory audit, seeking fill time / part time job,GSM-97654769,email idabdullah.nooralam@yahoo.com MBA & chemical Engineer having 20 yrs Purchase & Logistic experience in Petrochemicals & oil field seeking jobs in Oman/ Abudhabi/ Qatar/ SA .

Contact 97813849 Indian male 22 Yrs, diploma in fire & safety, special Trainings completed from Cochin Port Trust Fire Service & The Travancore-Cochin Chemicals Ltd searching for a suitable placement, now on visit visa, Contact No. 96722632 Indian Male 26 years B.Com having 5years rich experience in Accounts and Admin looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 96897914340, 00919902200486, E mail: sudhakaranchan06@gmail.com Indian Male, 24 yrs, MBA in HR/ Marketing. More than 1 years experienced in retail Banking (Axis Bank) Presently in family visit in Oman seeking for a suitable placement.#99892082 / 997 43 709 26,male, ACCA finalist, have professional experience up to finalization of accounts, statutory and internal audit, expertise in using tally and focus & oracle software, 2 years experience in accounts till finalization, seeking job, GSM-97654769,email idabdullah.nooralam@yahoo.com Indian Male 26 years BCOM having 5years rich experience in Accounts and Admin looking for suitable placement. Contact: 96897914340, 00919902200486, E mail: sudhakaranchan06@gmail.com Operation Manager, Indian male, 30 yrs exp. In Front Office Hotel Industry with Omani driving license seeks placement.NOC / Release Available. #99799774 Indian Male, B.COM, ICWA, CMA Australia, 24 years experience in finance, costing, accounts, internal audit. Valid Oman driving license.

NOC available. Can join immediately. Contact 97917136 Indian female M.A B.Ed. with One year three months teaching experience. Subject: English seeking for a better placement. Now working in Oman #93961142, 92184408 Email:anoopkesavan78@gmail.com.

Part- Time Accountant well versed with all accounting, Finalization, Budgeting available.

Contact 98803439 B.Sc. Computer science graduate with CCNA certification and also with a working 2 years experience, looking for a suitable position in IT sector. Please contact: + 96892595819 Diploma in Civil engineering, male, 5 yrs experience in Oman, worked as Site Engineer at Hyundai Engineering & Construction Company.

Beximco Engg Const Company, PHP Steel Mills Ltd seeking job urgently.

Contact 97140857 Indian male 27year B.Com graduate 2year experience in marketing.

Looking for good placement in any field, since from 4year in Oman.

Contact 98765838 Indian Male 23years B.E Electrical and Electronics Engineering having 1 year experience in Admin, Electrical Engineer, Electrical supervisor and Project Engineer looking for suitable placement. Contact : +96899682689, +91 8136994996.

Email: thalus09@gmail.com Indian Male, 22 years, B.Tech Mechanical (Fresher) from NIT, Calicut. Software skills – ANSYS, PRO-E Solid works. # 91294510 / 99437002, email: nsp1618@gmail.com Pakistani Male with 18 yrs of experience in GCC in Sales & Marketing, excellent English & Arabic speaking, NOC available, looking for suitable placement. #96383958 Diploma in Civil Engineering, Bangladeshi Male. Oman 5 yrs experience, seeks suitable placement. Contact 97140857 Indian female, well experienced in secretarial, administration, customer care & supervisory jobs.

5 years experience in Muscat.

Immediately available for joining.

Contact: 92139298 Civil draughtsman part time work for job mob: 96023726 20 years experience in Indian Air force with Mechanical Engineering diploma. 5 years in Administration 5 years experience in handling general engineering tool store management. 8 years in banking cash management service. #95451097. jacobsam2010@gmail.com Indian Male, Post graduate with experience as Document controller on visit seeking a suitable job.

Please contact 97248144. samiullah_ar@yahoo.co.in

Indian Male having 10 years of Experience in Oman having Valid Omani Driving license working in Purchase Dept looking for a suitable position. Salary is negotiable. obarla313@gmail.com Mob: 92654817/ 97490313 B. Pharm, Indian Female, Oman MOH License holder, seeking job.

Email:shivallath@gmail.com Contact no: 99665183 Indian Male, 24 yrs, MBA in HR/ Marketing. More than 1 years experienced in retail Banking(Axis Bank) Presently in family visit in Oman seeking for a suitable placement. #99892082 /997 43 709 Experienced Salesman with 5 years experience vehicle looking for job.

Contact 93079087 Post Graduate with experience in sales and marketing on visit seeking a suitable placement. # 94562734,dyasaakhan@gmail.com Indian Experienced Driver, can work also as Salesman. looking for a suitable job Contact 99551310 Senior Accounts Professional, Indian Male, 35 years, M.Com, MBA (Fin) 8 years in Oman, with valid Oman D/L and NOC available.

Capable to handle accounts up to finalization. Contact 96023965 MBA in HR, 6+ years work experience in HR & Admin in MNC, Indian Female, 26, Good communications skills seeking suitable placement. Contact 97914669 Male 25 Pakistani MA Economics/CAT.4 years experience in utility sector flexible to do any role in finance/HR & supply chain. https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=186570782.cell no 94626209 MBA in HR, 6+ years work experience in HR & Admin in MNC, Indian Female, 26 Good communications skills seeking suitable placement. Contact 97914669 Male 30, 6 years Oman experience in Sales, Currently working with an UAE based Company operating in UAE and Oman Market with valid UAE and Oman D/L looking for suitable placement. Contact +968 91212407 (NOC not required) Diploma in civil Engineer, Male, 5 years experience in Oman as a Site Engineer, worked at Hyundai Engineering & Construction Company, JMB-1, 20 storied high rise building, Industrial building, sub-station, roads & highway at Indian Railway Construction Company, looking for suitable placement. #97140857

MATRIMONIAL Indian Female 31, B.Com, TALLY having 6 years experience in Accounts department in Oman, seeking suitable placement.

Email: naibyjoshy@gmail.com, GSM: 92056034

Indian Male, 22 years, B.Tech Mechanical (Fresher) from NIT Calicut, Software skills – Ansys, Pro-E solid works. Contact 91294510 / 99437002.

Email: nsp1618@gmail.com

Fish farming and inland pond development, management and research 5 years plus 1 year experience in Oman, fisheries training manual development. +98698262184.

MBA, Indian Male, 28 yrs, HR & Admin, Marketing sales, 1 yr experience in India. I have release looking for any suitable job in Oman.

Contact 97484159

OPERATION MANAGER, Indian male, 30 yrs exp. In Front Office Hotel Industry with Omani driving license seeks placement.NOC / Release Available. #99799774

Infosys experienced male with engineering degree in Electronics and communication from a reputed University seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 95786295/ azhar.mumtaz90@gmail.com

26 years Indian male with MBA & PGDFM, Total 3.4 years experience in Administration seeking suitable placement in Muscat. Holding Oman valid driving license.

Contact: 93359371,

57 Yrs. Old healthy person seeking an opportunity in any area of works (Shop sales man, Painting, Store asst, traffic controller, Foremen, Controller) .Saudi experienced.

Contact-97239854-Asher

Indian Male, B.Sc Fashion & Apparel Design having 4+ yrs of experience (in Retail Sector as Designer-Visual Merchandising & Marketing) seeking suitable placement in any sections. Contact 94535866, Email: tomsjon@gmail.com

Indian male Engineer (B.E in E&C, MBA) with 5 years admin/professional experience looking for a suitable placement in a reputed company. Contact 91387463 email: i.career543@gmail.com

Accountant, Indian male, 25 yrs, BBM CA, Computer proficiency: TALLY9, C+, 1 yrs Experience in Oman, Seeks suitable placements. mob: 97145531 Indian Male, 24 years old on visit visa, 3 years Diploma in Civil Engineering, 3 yrs experience.

Contact 98515106 Indian Male, 22 years, B.Tech Mechanical (Fresher) from NIT Calicut, Software skills – ANSYS, PRO-E solid works.

Contact 91294510 / 99437002.

Email: nsp1618@gmail.com Indian Female, BSC Nurse, on visit having 4 years experience in Medical Surgical with Prometric Certificate looking for a suitable placement. Contact: 98329941/ Email: ancyanish2011@gmail.com Indian Male, 23 yrs MBA Marketing & Finance, 6 months experience as a Sales and Operations Officer looking for suitable job.#99106181, email : akram8145@gmail.com Civil Engineer, Diploma, Male 25, 3 years experience in site, CAD, 3d, MS Project, Seeking job in Oman.

Contact 92887561, jubincivileng@gmail.com Required Accountant job 4years experience visa exp 3.dec.14 Holding D/L. Contact - 98283400 Indian female 25 Yrs, IATA, B.Sc looking for suitable Placement.

Contact-95514305.

Email:raveendranmala@gmail.com Indian Female, M.Sc Software Engineering having 2 yrs experience in IT & Admin seeks suitable placement. Contact 94391214, anucherian@gmail.com Senior Accounts Professional, Indian Male, 35 years, M.Com, MBA (Fin) 8 years in Oman, with valid Oman DL and NOC available. Capable to handle accounts up to finalization.

Contact 9602 3965.

Marketing Executive male 23 years, 2 years exp with NOC available, GCC driving license, working in sales and warehouse management looking for suitable opening please #94030909 Indian male-26 having 2 years experience in Oman as a store keeper looking for the good placement, NOC available by the current company.

Contact 96671102, email: mohdparvez656@yahoo.com

Indian Male 38 years, Electronic Engineer with 14 yrs of Oman experience and proven track record as Sales & Marketing Manager (Electronics, Electrical & ElectroMechanical Products) with valid Oman D/L looking for a suitable placement in a reputed Organization. Please contact 92208744, Email: ebpadmakumar@yahoo.com

Indian Muslim Parents Invites Proposal for their daughter age 26 (Aalima, MBA, B.ED) On Muscat Visit. Please contact on 99878354 & 93062481.

Parents of Christian girl (Roman Catholic),27yrs,fair,5.5”, from Kerala working in TCS, Bangalore as Systems Engineer seeks suitable alliances. Call: +968 92010215 / +968 99278649 Christian Boy, 32 yrs Muscat Business looking for suitable alliance from reputed family.

Contact 98003111 Proposals are invited from parents of professionally qualified Nair Boys for 24 year old Upper Middle Class Nair girl hail from Trivandrum, (171 cm, Star-Bharani) employed in a reputed Company in Oman. Contact: 0968-9950 2593 /99798041.

(KM ID.2844689) Urdu speaking Sunni Muslim boy working as physiotherapist in MOH hospital seeking suitable bride. Cont: 93753655, Email: inayath777@yahoo.co.in

BUSINESS

Eight years experience in the field of Sales, Marketing & Branch in charge & Having Valid Oman Driving License with NOC.Presently in Oman. Seeking for Placements # Sumesh: 92718716 onsumesh@gmail.com B.Sc (Bio-Technology) & MBA having 4 years experience in Marketing and Sales currently on visit visa seeking suitable placement in Oman.

Email: meersameer768@gmail.com, GSM: 94517678 29 yr old indian male graduate 5yrs oman exp in sales and marketing with valid oman driving license looking for suitable job.Noc available ready to join immediately #95136784 Indian Male, 38 years, Electronics Engineer with 14 years of Oman experience and proven track record as Sales & Marketing Manager (Electronics, electrical & electro mechanical products) with valid Oman D/L for a suitable placement in a reputed Organization. Contact 92208744, email : ebpadmakumar@yahoo.com Indian Male, 24 yrs, MBA in HR/ Marketing. More than 1 years experienced in retail Banking (Axis Bank) Presently in family visit in Oman seeking for a suitable placement. Contact 99892082/ 997 43 709 Indian Male having 20 years Experience in Travel Agency in Oman.

Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 95692050.

Senior Accounts Professional, Indian Male, 35 years, M.Com, MBA (Fin) 8 years in Oman, with valid Oman DL and NOC available. Capable to handle accounts up to finalization.

Contact 9602 3965.

Part time accountant available.

Accounting experience up to finalization and tally also. Contact 96423671 Indian male with over 19 years of qualitative experience in Automobile field, expert in providing technical advice on repairs and servicing seeks jobs in sales/ service in manegerial capacity. #91-7736048460. yamaharajesh@gmail.com

Licensed Engineering Consultancy (Chemical) Company looking for International or local partners to start operations in Oman. For enquiries call 99264162 Wanted dentist or investor to buy a well-running dental clinic in Sohar immediately. Contact 92625962, 95904234 Omani National looking for expat investing partner in Restaurant in Al Amerat. Infrastructure almost ready. Jamal Adan Trading.

Contact 98711083, email : faisal.patel0038@gmail.com We assist in new business set up local sponsorship, real estate services, assist in company formation services. Contact - 93166088

T U E S DAY, JA N UA RY 6 , 2 0 1 5

D7

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

TOURS Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours Contact98029602, 92808636

RENT A CAR

M.V. FOR SALE

Car for sale : Honda Civic LXI 2008, good condition, 119000 km.

Contact 92726558 Pathfinder silver 2008, Gulf, full option, No.1, in very good condition.

Contact 91376619 For sale, Ashok Leyland Bus, 66 seater, white color, model 2012.

Contact 99413089, 99235411 For sale, Nissan X-trail, white color, model 2009. Contact 99413089, 99235411 Pajero 3.8 v6 full option, 2008 model expat driven single owner, excellent condition, accident free, 217k.

Contact - 92590781 Lexus IS 250, model 2007, good condition.

Contact 95530560 Renault Safrane, model-2010 kms100000, full option, good condition. price-2900/- negotiable CONTACT-97881927

NRI

Lexus GS300, 2006 for sale.

Contact 93218349

10 cent (404.7m2) residential land for sale at kalamassery (kochi) for immediate sale contact Biny 95298395

M.V.WANTED

Villa for sale 2200 sq ft in 8 cent.

Kottayam. Contact: 92652534

Required Nissan Tida / Toyota yaris / Suzuki swift / hyundai/Kia hatchback car in good condition.

Contact 95405033

For Astrological consultation, Jathakam. #99860435 / 97102599

TRANSPORTATION DRIVING

TRANSPORTATION

Driver with car.

Contact 92179395

Transportation. Contact 93425167

Pick & drop anytime in al Khuwair.

Contact 99764307

Pick & Drop any time. contact 97014786

Transportation. Contact 98505294

Transportation. Contact 99664703

Transportation available. Contact 97924934

Transportation available 99159277

Transportation. Contact 91379976

Transportation. Contact 96538078

Transportation with car & driver.

(VIP’s only). Contact 95040768

Transportation Available Contact 97180655

D8

T U E S D AY, JA N UA RY 6, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

SITUATION WANTSERVICES

WEBSITE

CLASSES

PRO services.

Contact 99368907 Al Manar Vocational pleased to announce at vocational short and long term courses in tailoring, cooking and internal design. Contact us now : 24698070 or 91144335

WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price.

Contact: http//webviewoman

COMPUTER

GOOD NEWS

Split & window AC servicing and repairing. Contact 99557080 Window & split unit AC servicing & maintenance. Contact 96236476

Contact: 91262820 / 96458007

GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998 MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. # 24793614/ 99314807 FREE INFORMATION ABOUT ISLAM. If you would like to know more about Islam, please call: 99425598, 96050000, 99353988, 99253818, 99341395, and 99379133.

For ladies: 99415818, 99321360, 99730723 Orvisit: www.islamfact.com Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam).

Contact 24475280 / 95371554 / 92504980 , www.siddhayur.com Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis, massage, steam bath, obesity, spondylitis, ideal care Ayurvedic Clinic, 18 November Street, Azaiba. Contact 99639695 / 99117987

BEAUTY Varkey’s Gents Salon & Spa – Offer 25% on all spa facilities like hamam spa, massages with steam bath, Jacuzzi, aroma therapy, pedicure & manicure, facial treatments. Contact 92935679

Pest Control Treatments!!!

Termites! Cockroaches! Bedbugs!

Ocean Centre LLC. Contact 99344723 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722 Door to Door Computers repair specialist laptop software Website cartridges. Contact 99199376 A.M Trading Pest control.

Contact 99067923

Civil maintenance, electrical & plumbing work. Contact 99557080, 96236476 Building Caretaker, Gulf Experienced, knows Arabic, Hindi English Ph : 94304348 For All Your Maintenance Solutions, A/c Servicing & Fixing, Painting, Cleaning, Electric. Contact.

99002390 Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722

Fast & Right Way - For all PR related works – permanent Visa stamping, family visiting visa holders, clients contacts – with NOC letter with signed & sealed photocopy documents – Contact: 91568362 Catering services We do industrial catering service, Canteen/ mess, 3 times packed meals, and all types of catering events.

Contact 92188777/ 99249899 Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & anti-termite treatment, general cleaning painting, Plumbing, Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir AlRizaiqi trading. L.L.C. # 24810137, 99450130

GULF INTERNATIONAL LLC all kind of pest control.

Contact 92326955

For HT cable jointing and termination works 33KV/11KV. Contact 99056438 / Email: npgoman@gmail.com

Window & split unit A/C servicing & maintenance. Contact 96236476

House shifting transport. Contact 99657644, 98518013

Civil Maintenance, Painting Electric, Plumbing, Decor, Tile Fixing, Lecithin Copra Board flat stifling , Carpet Cleaning and A/C Servicing.Contact 97897831 (Indian keralite)

For All Your Maintenance Solutions, A/c Servicing & Fixing, Painting, Cleaning, Electric. Contact 99002390

Split & window A/C servicing & maintenance. Contact 93769089

Waterproofing, light weight Screed, Antitermite and MS Fabrication.

Contact 92888337

For all your maintenance needs including, Painting, Plumbing, Electricity, Laying of Interlock Tiles, Marbles etc. Tel: 99383574 Mr. Chandran

Carpet & sofa cleaning, house cleaning. Contact 99542979 / 98855815

Electrical Plumbing Painting Contract and Maintenance.

Contact 98456535

MANPOWER

Painting Interlock plumbing maintenance. Contact 92142319 Carpet & Sofa Shampooing.

Ocean Centre LLC. Contact 99884591 Maintenance – 1) A/C Maintenance, 2)fridge, washing machine & dish washer repairing, 3)painting & cleaning services, 4)electrical & plumbing carpentry work.

Contact 99447257 / 97014234 / 24504281

FOR HIRE

TRUCK FOR HIRE Isuzu 10 ton cargo body truck (2012 FVR) with UAE experienced driver available for long term / short term rent.

Contact: 95346950 Running truck wash for rent in Ouhi Sunia Sohar. Serious people can. Contact on 97864747 50 seater bus with PDO specification for rent or lease.

Contact 99839898 *Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability