Times of Oman - July 9, 2015

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RAMADAN PRAYER TIMINGS IFTAR 7.03PM FAJR 4.00AM

THURSDAY, July 9, 2015 / 22 Ramadan 1436 AH

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Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

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‘COME AFTER EID’

O N E O F T H E W O R L D ’ S L A R G E S T S O L A R FA C I L I T I E S

TRYING TO GET SOMETHING DONE? DOES THIS RESPONSE SOUND FAMILIAR?

Business leaders call for change in RENEWABLE SOURCE: An artist’s impression of the planned Amal oilfield solar project. – Supplied picture

PDO signs $600m pact for giant solar plant to extract oil A. E. JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Plans to build a 1,021-megawatt solar thermal facility – one of the world’s largest solar plants – to extract heavy and viscous oil from Amal oilfield in South Oman was jointly announced by the majority stateowned Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) and US-based GlassPoint Solar on Wednesday.

The solar thermal facility, named Miraah (meaning mirror in Arabic), will be built in a threesquare-kilometre area to harness the sun’s rays to produce steam with a capital expenditure of $600 million in three phases.

The first phase will be commissioned by 2017 and the last phase slated for commissioning few years later.

The steam will be used in thermal enhanced oil recovery (EOR) to extract heavy and viscous oil at the Amal oilfield. Miraah will deliver the largest peak energy output of any solar plant in the world and the scope of this landmark project underscores the massive market for deploying solar in the oil and gas industry.

The plant will provide a sustainable solution for EOR steam, which is currently produced by burning natural gas. Once complete, Miraah will save 5.6 trillion British Thermal Units (BTUs) of natural gas each year, the amount of gas that could be used to provide residential electricity to 209,000 people in Oman.

Raoul Restucci, managing director of PDO, and Rod MacGregor, president and chief executive officer of GlassPoint Solar, signed an agreement to build the project, which is coming up close to its pilot venture in

SOLAR POWER

The solar thermal facility Miraah will harness the sun rays to produce steam Natural gas saving

Capital expenditure

Project area

trillion BTUs per year

million dollars

square kilometres

5.6 600 3

1,021

Capacity of the plant

MEGAWATTS Graphics

Amal oilfield. Addressing the media, Restucci said the company’s key priority is to deliver oil and gas with an increasingly efficient and sustainable manner.

“The PDO has been a pioneering force in EOR for a number of years and it will play an increasingly important part in the company’s portfolio, accounting for around a third of our production by 2023,” noted Restucci.

“The use of solar for oil recovery is a long-term strategic solution to develop the PDO’s viscous oil portfolio and reduce the consumption of valuable natural gas, which is needed elsewhere to diversify Oman’s economy and create economic growth. It will also displace diesel and higher carbon intensive power generation and oil burning in future thermal projects. >A6

working attitudes, saying Ramadan shouldn’t be misused as an excuse

ELHAM POURMOHAMMADI

elham@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: It has become a refrain that many in business, and in daily life, have grown to dread...‘Come after Eid’.

Today a number of business leaders are calling for a change in attitudes at the workplace during the Holy Month of Ramadan in Oman, saying that the religious period should not be used as an excuse to avoid tasks.

Sultan Ali Al Busaidi, managing director of the United National Oilfield Services (UNOS), said that just this week he faced a problem because of this issue.

He referred to a funding organisation which deals with loan distribution and industrial plots, but realised that everything was being deferred until after Ramadan.

“Ramadan is becoming an exTOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

OMAN

More expats to go

1

A total of 14,254 expats will leave Oman at the end of amnesty. >A3

REGION

Iran nuclear talks

2

Iran has offered ‘constructive solutions’ to nuclear disputes.>A8

LIFESTYLE

Give them a chance

3

Private sector should create an education fund for the poor. >C9

Oman sand stars begin World Cup campaign today

C3 MORE RAIN PREDICTED

Rain in parts of Oman brings relief from sweltering heat Times News Service MUSCAT: Moderate to heavy rain was recorded in several parts of the Sultanate on Wednesday.

According to residents, heavy to light rains fell in several areas of Rustaq, Sumail and parts of Al Awabi at Al Dakhliyah governorate on Wednesday afternoon bringing down the temperature.

“What a sense of relief we had after the showers,” said an Indian expatriate Pankaj Adhikari who lives in Rustaq.

Speaking to the Times of Oman, an official of the Directorate General of Meteorology and Air Navigation, (DGMAN), said that rains in some parts of Al Hajar Mountains and Dhofar region are expected to continue for the next two to three days.

“That is because of the presence of north easterly winds in the country,” said the official.

The DGMAN, in its forecast on Wednesday, said that skies would be partly cloudy along the coastal areas of the Dhofar governorate

and adjoining mountains with chances of intermittent drizzle.

“There are also chances of late night to early morning low level clouds and patches of fog along the coastal areas of the Arabian Sea and some parts of the Sea of Oman,” it said.

The sea will be rough along the Arabian Sea coast with a maximum wave height of four metres and slight to moderate along the rest of Oman’s coast with a maximum wave height of two metres, it added.

“The more you delay, the more you lose the potential to run the business,” Sultan Ali Al Busaidi cuse for everybody,” said Al Busaidi, adding that this attitude has led to working less and reduced productivity.

“For us, in the private sector, there is no difference between Ramadan and other months. All the time is meant for us to work.

You cannot really delay anything.

The more you delay, the more you lose the potential to run the business,” he noted.

The fact that the Prophet (PBUH) was involved in battles during Ramadan should be a lesson for us, he said.

This problem may have been

caused by the lack of ‘written discipline’, said Al Busaidi, adding that the culture should be changed.

Mohammed Al Mashani, general manager of corporate affairs at Port of Salalah, agreed that there should not be any difference between Ramadan and other months when it comes to work. Ramadan teaches people to improve themselves and their performance, so if an employee is paid to do a job that person should deliver services in a proper way, he said.

The mindset will help avoid drop in productivity, said Al Mashani.

However, Faris Al Farsi, director general for investment promotion at the Public Authority for Investment Promotion and Export Development (Ithraa), said that it was an ‘individual’ act and should not be generalised.

A scientific study or a survey needs to be done, he said, adding that one cannot state that it is a phenomenon happening everywhere.

Ahmed Al Hooti, a member of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), agreed that Ramadan should not be used as an ‘excuse’ to work less, but also said that there are different factors that lead to a different situation during this month.

“I think one month is not a big deal,” said Al Hooti and added that employees will be more active after Ramadan. >A6

12.17pm 3.36pm 7.03pm 8.24pm 4.00am

ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company

DUQM PORT

His Majesty issues Royal Decree MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said on Wednesday issued Royal Decree No. 28/2015 promulgating the Law on Granting Concession to Develop, Manage and Operate Duqm Port and endorsing its related agreements.

Article (1) states that, without prejudice to the provisions of the Maritime Law issued under Royal Decree No. 35/81, the Law on Granting Concession to Develop, Manage and Operate Duqm Port (attached to this Decree) shall be applied.

Article (2) endorses the Duqm Port Concession and Land Development (Usufruct) Rights Agreement and the Shareholders Agreement stated in the attached law. >A5 His Majesty cables on >A3, A5

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015 The Seeb Consumer Protection Directorate, unearthed a massive racket by a company which was distributing its expired food products to a number of shops and shopping centres in the Sultanate after forging the expiry dates.

Company raided for selling expired products >A3

OMAN INTERNAL SECURITY

Asian expatriate arrested for murder in Dhofar Times News Service

PROHIBITED: Possession and

distribution of fireworks is a crime under the Omani law. -ROP

MUSCAT: The Directorate General of Inquiries and Investigations of the Dhofar Police Department, in co-operation with Saada Police Department, arrested an Asian expatriate on charges of murder, said an official of the Royal Oman Police (ROP).

The expatriate has been arrested for the murder of another

expatriate of the same nationality in Saada area in the Governorate of Dhofar.

The police department received a call that the two expatriates had assaulted each other and in the scuffle one of them was knifed to death. The caller also said that the suspect fled after the murder.

After investigations, the police arrested the suspect and referred him to the Public Prosecution to

proceed with legal procedures.

The ROP calls on citizens and residents to co-operate and report cases such as these immediately by calling 9999 or on 80077444, the free hotline used for receiving crime reports.

Firecrackers seized Al Darah border post foiled an attempt to smuggle 430 fireworks of various types. The smuggler

had hidden the fireworks in the trunk of his car along with his personal goods.

More than 400 fireworks were also seized in Al Wajajah border post where the smuggler had hidden the explosives under the passenger seat and the trunk of the car.

Wadi Saa border post also seized 33 fireworks. The smugglers were arrested and referred to legal au-

thorities for court procedures.

Possession and distribution of fireworks is a crime under the Omani Penal Code and the offender could face a minimum of three years in jail and a fine not exceeding OMR3,000 or both. The punishment would multiply if the offence is repeated.

The Royal Oman Police (ROP) has urged citizens and residents to abide by the laws of the Sultanate.

CRIME REPORT

Three held for thefts; illegal products seized Times News Service SINAW: Directorate General of Inquiries and Investigations in North Al Sharqiyah arrested a citizen on charges of theft from a local store.

The Sinaw Police received two calls about an unknown person breaking into a store.

After investigation, the suspect was arrested and upon questioning, he confessed to having committing the crime.

In another case, the Sinaw Police arrested two citizens on charges of stealing goats. The department had earlier received eyewitness complaints from a citizen, who reported that a pickup vehicle was loaded with thirty goats stolen from a barn owned by citizen in Samad Asshan.

Contraband seized Customs officers at the Central Post Office seized 117 illegal products during the month of June. A source from the Directorate General of Customs said that among the products they have seized included 1,485 psychotropic drug capsules, 11 drones with cameras installed, 13 watches with cameras installed, 5 radar (speed trap) detectors and 6 pens with cameras installed.

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OMAN

14,254 illegal expats benefit from government amnesty The Ministry of Manpower figures show that 7,382 illegal expats have already been deported and another 6,872 are in the process of flying out

Times News Service MUSCAT: A total of 14,254 illegal expatriates would have left Oman when the three-month long amnesty will end on July 31, according to statistics from the Ministry of Manpower.

The ministry figures show that 7,382 illegal expats have already been deported and another 6,872 have been referred to the compe-

PERFECT CHANCE: Ministry of Manpower is currently implementing two plans, including providing illegal workers with the chance to correct their situation and has also expanded inspection campaigns in coordination with the competent authorities.–File photo

tent authorities for completion of their deportation procedures.

Launched on May 3, the amnesty scheme provided by the ministry offered an opportunity to undocumented and overstaying workers to return home without

facing legal action for violating their residency status and Oman’s labour laws.

Increase in June The figures from the ministry have witnessed a marked increase in

the number of deported workers in June, which also shows that the amnesty provided by the ministry has been met with greater acceptance among expatriates and the private sector. The number of such workers reached 6,985 while

another 6,258 were ready to be deported, compared to May where there were only 397 workers with another 614 ready to be deported.

Such an increase shows that the amnesty provided by the ministry has been met with greater acceptance among expatriates and the private sector.

Salem Al Badi, director-general of labour welfare at the Ministry of Manpower, said that the amnesty is a perfect chance for illegal expats to return to their homeland.

“The Ministry of Manpower continues receiving documents of illegal workers through its different offices in the Sultanate,” said Al Badi. Al Badi added that the ministry is currently implementing two plans, including providing illegal workers with chance to correct their situation and it has also increased its inspection campaigns in coordination with the competent authorities.

The inspections aim to monitor developments in the labour market, changes and fulfilment of the employers and the workforce of their legal commitments, official regulations and ministerial decisions.

CONSUMER PROTECTION

Times News Services

UNETHICAL TRADE: About 18,500 goods were seized and included

imported spices, legumes among other things. -Supplied photo

MUSCAT: A massive racket by a company distributing expired food products to a number of shops and shopping centres in the Sultanate after forging the expiry dates was uncovered by the Seeb Consumer Protection Directorate, in collaboration with the Department of Consumer Protection Cases at the Public Prosecution and the Seeb Police Station.

Ibrahim Al Ghafri, director of Seeb Consumer Protection, said

ACADEMICS

Centres for unified admissions ready to welcome students Times News Service

ECONOMY

Inflation down in Oman; UAE tops in GCC MUSCAT: GGC inflation index recorded rates that ranged between -0.40 per cent in the Sultanate of Oman and 4.32 per cent in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) compared to the same month of 2014, based on the latest statistics issued by the GCC-Stat.

Among GCC member states, the highest inflation rate was recorded in the United Arab Emirates at 4.32 per cent, followed

by Kuwait at 3.32 per cent, the Kingdom of Bahrain at 2.4 per cent, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at 2.1 per cent, and Qatar at 0.87 per cent, while the Sultanate of Oman recorded a decline to 0.40 per cent.

Compared with the general index of April 2015, the inflation index of May shows a slight increase in Qatar by 0.56 per cent, the United Arab Emirates by 0.27 per cent, the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by 0.2 per cent each, and the State of Kuwait by 0.07 per cent.-ONA

SAUDI ARABIA

HM sends condolences MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has sent a cable of condolences to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the death of Prince Ahmed bin Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. In his cable, His Majesty the Sultan has expressed his sincere condolences and sympathy to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, praying to Allah the Almighty to rest the deceased’s soul in peace and grant his family patience. -ONA SOUTH SUDAN

HM sends greetings MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has sent a cable of congratulations to President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan on the occasion of his country’s Independence Anniversary. In his cable, His Majesty the Sultan has expressed his sincere congratulations along with his best wishes of good health and happiness to President Mayardit and the people of his country further progress and prosperity. -ONA AZERBAIJAN

Officials raid firm, uncover expired food racket

MUSCAT: Thirty-nine centres for unified admissions are ready to welcome twelfth grade students to complete their electronic registrations during study amendment week, announced Dr Nasser Al Ghandoubi, assistant general manager of the National Centre for Career Guidance at the Ministry of Education.

He assured that the centres will receive students holding high school diplomas who wish to amend their choices after the Centre for Unified Admissions opens its doors next week.

“Students will get a second chance to amend the programmes

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that they have their grades, they will be given the opportunity to change their subjects,” said Al Ghandoubi.

Dr Nasser Al Ghandoubi

and majors they chose during their registrations. Thus is crucial because the students had chosen the subjects before their results were announced. Now,

60 advisors “We have equipped the centres with 60 advisors and career guidance counsellors to assist students with their academic and career choices and help them to avoid any challenges,” he added.

Al Ghandoubi said that the centres are situated geographically depending on the needs of every governorate with a guaranteed service delivery to students, whether they are regulars, teaching the elderly, or those studying abroad.

that they received information about a company indulging in this nefarious practice and carried out a raid.

“The company also mixed freshly received products with expired ones and altered the expiry dates,” said Al Ghafri.

He added that they began investigations immediately after they discovered that the company’s headquarters were located near its two warehouses at the centre of the Seeb market and was being supervised by two managers, one

an Arab national and the other an Asian. The total number of seized goods was about 18,500 and included imported spices, legumes, olives and vinegar.

Al Ghafri said that in co-ordination with the Department of Consumer Protection Cases at the Public Prosecution and the Seeb Police Station, legal action was initiated against the company and nine Asians and other Arabs who violated the terms of the Consumer Protection Law issued by Royal Decree No 66/2014.

HM receives thanks cable MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has received a cable of thanks from President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan in reply to His Majesty’s congratulatory cable on the occasion of his country’s National Day. In his cable, President Aliyev expressed his utmost thanks and appreciation for His Majesty the Sultan’s congratulations and best wishes, wishing His Majesty good health and happiness and the Omani people permanent peace and welfare. -ONA

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THU RSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

TODAY’S DUAA ‘O Allah, on this day, purify me from uncleanliness and dirt, make me patient over events that are decreed, grant me the ability to be pious, and keep company with the good, by Your help, O the beloved of the destitute.’

Journey of a lifetime

Some weeks after Ramadan, Muslims gear up for Haj which embodies solidarity. This is the right time to make up your mind to fulfil one of the five pillars of Islam. AFTAB H. KOLA gives a primer on Haj

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s you read this Holy Makkah and Madinah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are teeming with million Muslims who have come from every nook and corner to perform Umrah, the short pilgrimage. It is the peak season for Umrah as during the last ten days of Ramadan the Haram masjid in Makkah is teeming with Muslims. And, about ten weeks after Ramadan, it will be time for Haj. Though there is ample of time for it, yet now is opportune time to make an intention for it and commence preparations.

‘And Proclaim unto Mankind the pilgrimage. They will come unto thee on foot and every lean camel; they will come from every deep ravine,” is what the Holy Quran states in chapter 22, verse 27.

Haj is one of the five institutions of Islam and every year in Dul Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Hijri calendar, Muslims who can afford to undertake Haj congregate on the Holy Sanctuary of Makkah.

The performance of Haj as an enjoined duty and its superiority is in the statement of Allah: “Haj to the House (Kaaba) is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, those who can afford the journey.”

Each person who has attained a responsible age, is in good health, and financially capable and confident must embark on Haj for at least once in a lifetime.

There are several rituals to be followed that last for several days. The pilgrimage of Makkah is built on a solid foundation of several layers of tradition extending back in time, from the records of Ibrahim (Abraham), Hagar and Ishmael, of Adam, the first man and the first Prophet to descend on the Earth. Adam built the Kaaba in Makkah on Allah’s command.

Thousands of generations later, a little more than 4,000 lunar years ago as calculated by Abdul Gafoor Attar and given in his book ‘Al Kaaba wa Al Kiswah’ Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) came to the same hills.

It is reported that Hagar, wife of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH), was in desperate search of water to for her thirsty son Ishmael in a valley of Makkah. She ran between the hills Safa and Marwa seven times until she saw the angels at a spot digging the earth until a pool of water gushed forth and shaped itself into a well which came to be known as Zam Zam. Hagar and her son Ishmael lived near this spring and were gifted cattle in return for allowing nomadic tribes to water their flocks. Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) returned and re-united with Ishmael (as Hagar had died) and together they built the House of Allah on exactly the same spot as Adam’s Kaaba. When the construction was completed, Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) performed Haj annually. His son Ishmael carried on the tradition after his father’s death. Before his death, Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) prayed to Allah asking for a messenger to be sent to guide his son’s peoples.

Meanwhile, the idol-worshipping pagan Arabs dramatically altered the Holy Place.

At last, time arrived for Allah to answer Prophet Ibrahim’s (PBUH) invocation that read: “Our Lord! And raise up in their midst a messenger from among them who shall recite unto them thy revelations and

Hadith of the day ABU SA’ID AL-KHUDRI reported that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, “No slave fasts one day in the way of Allah without Allah putting his face seventy years’ journey away from the Fire on account of that day.”

[Agreed upon] instruct them in the Scriptures and in wisdom. Lo! Thou, only thou, art the Mighty, Wise.” (Chapter 2, Verse 129). And the miracle happened. Mohammed (peace be upon him) was born, attained prophethood and changed the course of Arabs and later spread the message of Islam throughout the world. When Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) undertook Haj thousands followed him. And today, almost three million Muslims (the number is restricted due to OIC regulated quota system) converge on Makkah to carry on the tradition with a strong faith that it will cleanse them of their sins and reinforce their faith. Although the rituals followed are quite long it is on the 9th of Dul Hijjah worshippers make their way to the plains of Arafat and are required to be present from noon to sunset and this forms the climax of Haj. It is a wonderful sight to see three million Muslims in a state of Ihram fulfilling the obligations of Haj. Ihram is a state of consecration which requires the application of certain restrictions which continue until the main part of pilgrimage is fulfilled. In physical sense, Ihram means wearing just two white cotton sheets and then making an intention of performing Haj or Umrah. Ihram reminds the pilgrim of his death when he will be wrapped with the same kind of white cloth. Once Ihram is worn, the pilgrim should begin to recite aloud what is known as Talbiyah: “Here I am O Allah! Here I am. Here I am.

You have no partner, here I am. Surely all praise, grace and dominion is yours, and you have no partner.” When recited with sincerity and understanding, the Talbiyah is a reaffirmation of the pilgrim’s belief in Tawheed (oneness of Allah) and a confirmation of submission to Allah’s command. The Haj that is graced by Allah’s acceptance has a lasting effect on those who perform it. A deep spiritual transformation takes place on the individual, that can be observed in his or her daily activities. The individual knows that after the Haj is performed all his/her sins have been forgiven and he/she is like a child born again.

So, let us take a pledge that if we have the means we will perform Haj this year.

Let us pray to Allah to make things easier for us so that we can plan our Haj.

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JORDAN

His Majesty receives thanks cable MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has received a cable of thanks from King Abdullah II of Jordan in reply to His Majesty’s congratulatory cable on the occasion of his country’s 69th Independence Anniversary.

In his cable, King Abdullah II expressed his utmost thanks for His Majesty’s feelings that embody the good relations between the two countries. He expressed his keenness on enhancing the relations in all spheres to serve the interests of the people, praying to Allah the Almighty to protect His Majesty and grant him success to achieve further progress and prosperity for the Omani people. -ONA ECONOMY

A1 Decree < FROM

Article (3) stipulates that the Chairman of the Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm shall issue the bylaws and decisions necessary for the execution of the attached law.

Article (4) states that this Decree shall be published in the official gazette and enforced on its date of issue. -ONA

T R AV E L M A R K E T I N G

Oman Air launches Sindbad mobile app for frequent fliers Times News Service MUSCAT: Oman Air today announced the launch of the Sindbad mobile app for Android and iPhone, its latest initiative designed to enhance the travel experience of frequent fliers even further.

The Sindbad app is an addition to the existing Oman Air mobile app and comes packed with features to provide a more seamless travel experience for guests. The app enables members to check their Sindbad miles balance, claim any missing miles, request for redemptions, and keep track of their Tier progress, apart from seeing their upcoming bookings on Oman Air, checking their Family account, and much more directly from their mobile phones.

Members can also store and display their Sindbad membership card on their mobile app and use it to get their privileges and benefits at the airport. Customers who are not yet members of Sindbad can now enrol via the app and start earning miles right away.

Mohammed Al Shikely, general manager, marketing for Oman Air, said, “With this enhanced

SAF CHIEF MEETS UK GENERAL

Lt Gen Ahmed bin Harith Al Nabhani, Chief of Staff of the Sultan’s Armed Forces (SAF) received in his office at Mu’askar Al Murtafa’a on Wednesday Lt. Gen James Everard, Commander of the British Land Forces and his accompanying delegation, currently visiting the Sultanate. The meeting exchanged cordial conversations and discussed matters of common concern. —ONA

PROMOTION

‘Vacations’ bonanza for thirty winners

SUMMER SALE: A total of five quad bikes, 10 air tickets and 15 vacations were awarded to the winners.–Jun Estrada/TIMES OF OMAN

Times News Service MUSCAT: ‘Vacations’, the Outbound Holidays division of Travel Point, announced 30 winners for the Big Summer Sale campaign held from March 26 to May 26.

The awards ceremony was presented by Oman Air and powered

by Honda.

The promotion was offered in five different regions in the Sultanate - Muscat, Salalah, Sohar, Nizwa and Sur, where six winners from each region won prizes ranging from Honda TRX 90 Quad Bikes to vacation packages, courtesy of Oman Air. “Whoever bought a trip worth OMR100 from our company was eligible to enter the draw. It was the biggest promotion this year,” said Ahmed El Desouky, head of leisure – outbound, Travel Point.

A total of five quad bikes, 10 air tickets and 15 vacations were awarded to the winners. The tickets, courtesy of Oman Air, would see the winners travel to Amman, Beirut or Mumbai and

OMAN

the vacation packages offered international destinations such as Switzerland and Germany among others.

“The destinations have been selected by the trade and we have given them the flexibility. We were flexible in terms of offering certain tickets,” said Mustapha Elhamoui, commercial manager Oman Air. When asked about the quad bikes offered, Freddie C L, national manager of Honda Motorcycles said, “Looking at the beauty of Oman and the desert we thought why not tie up and promote our bikes, because holidays mean fun and our bikes are fun.”

Travel Point also ran a special ‘Win a Trip for 2 to the Maldives’ WhatsApp contest which was open to all, in which thousands of participants sent a WhatsApp text message saying “I need a summer holiday” to enter the draw of which only one winner was chosen.

The award was offered by the Jumeirah Group.

FREE APP: Members can also

store and display their Sindbad membership card on their mobile app.

Sindbad mobile app from Oman Air, members can not only search, book, buy and check-in for their flights, but they can also manage their Sindbad membership all on the go. The app is free of charge and is available for download at the Apple app store and on Google play. This great innovation is the latest in a series of digital developments at Oman Air which offers even greater convenience for our customers.”

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015 PDO awarded GlassPoint the contract based on the strength of our successful solar steam pilot, which has exceeded expectations for reliable operations and steam delivery for the past two years Raoul Restucci, Managing Director of PDO

OMAN

Medicare to be dearer for uninsured British expats The decision was announced by the UK health department and came into effect from April, 2015

TARIQ AL HAREMI

tariqh@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: British expatriates residing outside the United Kingdom will have to pay 150 per cent

of the National Health Service (NHS) tariff if they do not have sufficient insurance.

The decision which was announced by the UK’s Department of Health, as part of the effort to earn £500 million a year from 2017 to 2018, came into effect from April, 2015.

However, free treatment is given to those who possess a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and state pensioners living in the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland. The charges, therefore, only apply to hospitals.

Appointments with general practitioners and accident and emergency treatments remain free.

NHS hospitals will be granted an extra 25 per cent of the

cost of treatment for a patient with an EHIC. According to the Department of Health statement, “Within the UK, free NHS treatment is provided on the basis of someone being ‘ordinarily resident’. It is not dependent upon nationality, the payment of UK taxes, national insurance contributions, and being registered with a GP, in addition to having an NHS number or owning property in the UK.” People who live elsewhere in the EEA and Switzerland, who are unemployed and are under the UK retirement age should either have an EHIC, if entitled to one, or make sure they have insurance for NHS treatment. Otherwise, they will be charged.

“UK’s pensioners living elsewhere in the EEA will have the same rights to NHS care as the people living in the UK. This applies to all pensioners who receive a UK retirement pension and are registered for health care in Europe with an S1 form,” said the Department of Health statement.

“People who live outside the EEA, including former UK residents, should now make sure they are covered by personal health insurance, unless an exemption applies to them. Anyone who does not have insurance will be charged at 150 per cent of the NHS national tariff for any care they receive,” added the statement.

However, there are some who are exempt from payment. These

are servants of the UK crown, British Council or Commonwealth War Graves staff, and those working in the government-funded posts abroad, with the spouse or civil partner and children under 18. There is also no charge for members of the armed forces, war pensioners and recipients of the armed forces compensation scheme and their families.

Those who live in a non-EEA country which has an agreement with the UK for free treatment are also exempt from the charges.

“Citizens who return to the UK on a settled basis will be classed as ‘ordinarily resident’, and will be eligible for free NHS care immediately,” added the Department of Health statement.

SOLAR POWER

< FROM

A1 Plant to produce daily 6,000 tonnes of solar steam The project will meet a significant portion of the steam demand at Amal and is an important part of the PDO’s production plans.

Around 60 per cent of the material needed for the project will be procured locally, which will create new opportunities in supply chain development.

The PDO has been working with GlassPoint since 2010 on a successful pilot scheme at Amal to test the commercial viability of solar steam, which produced 50 tonnes of steam a day.

The seven megawatt solar steam pilot will continue to operate at Amal alongside the full-scale development.

“The PDO awarded GlassPoint the contract based on the strength of our successful solar steam pilot, which has exceeded expectations for reliable operations and steam delivery for the past two years.

GlassPoint’s proven track record propelled us toward this historic

project that will be over 100 times larger,” added Restucci.

The project will generate an average of 6,000 tonnes of solar steam per day for oil production, dwarfing all other solar EOR installations.

The system will deliver steam to Amal’s existing thermal EOR operations, meeting a sizeable portion of the field’s steam demand. The full-scale project will comprise 36 glasshouse modules, built and commissioned in succession in groups of four.

The total project area, including all supporting infrastructure, will span three square kilometres, an area equivalent to more than 360 football pitches. The actual solar field will span less than twosquare kilometres.

The project will break ground this year with steam generation from the first glasshouse module in 2017. Once complete, Miraah will deliver more energy to the

customer than any other solar plant in the world. The project is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by over 300,000 tonnes annually, the equivalent of taking 63,000 cars off the road.

“The oil and gas industry is the next major market for solar energy.

It takes a tremendous amount of energy to produce heavy and viscous oil, with a typical oil field consuming the same amount of energy as a small city,” said MacGregor.

Much of the world’s easy oil has already been recovered. To maintain production, oil companies are increasingly moving from primary and secondary methods to tertiary oil recovery processes as well as unconventional resources, which are more complex and expensive to produce.

Recovering heavy oil, which represents the major proportion of the world’s remaining reserves, is energy intensive. Typically, for every five barrels of heavy oil, the

energy equivalent to one barrel is consumed in the production process. The leading method of producing heavy oil is steam flooding, a thermal EOR process that injects steam into a reservoir to heat the oil and reduce viscosity, making it easier to extract and pump to the surface. Steam for thermal EOR is typically produced by burning large volumes of natural gas.

Gas demand will continue to rise alongside EOR projects.

GlassPoint’s solar EOR solution generates steam from solar energy, reducing an oilfield’s gas consumption by up to 80 per cent.

Oman can redirect the gas saved to meet rising demand for power generation, desalination, industrial development and liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports.

Miraah has the potential to generate significant value for Oman, creating new opportunities in supply chain development, manufacturing capability, and employment

and training. Plans to localise the supply chain are currently under development, including establishing a local manufacturing factory in Oman.

PDO has a comprehensive programme to address energy management, installing combined cycle, waste heat recovery, and reduced loss distribution systems, along with gas breakthrough controllers, more efficient turbines and electrical submersible pumps, low pressure and atmospheric gas recovery systems, and solar along with LED lighting.

“This project has the potential to make Oman a world centre of excellence for solar EOR with obvious benefits in terms of job and training opportunities for Omanis, building a robust Omani supply chain and attracting further foreign investment, whilst building a reliable and sustainable proposition for solar EOR worldwide,” added Restucci.

H O LY M O N T H

‘Country’s < FROM economy is A1 impacted’ Ramadan is a holy month which gives the people an opportunity to get closer to God, he said, adding that the hot weather also makes it difficult for fasting employees to work, especially those working outdoors.

An Omani businessman in the private sector, who asked not to be named, said that ‘Come after Eid’ has become a slogan for many employees in government organisations and some private companies in certain sectors.

Because of this recent ‘phenomenon’ of ‘after Eid’, work of clients is getting delayed, he said, adding that it also negatively affects the productivity and economy of the country.

“Employees everywhere around the world tend to be on the lazy side, especially in government. But in Oman, it is becoming a norm. When you go to a ministry before Eid, you find fewer people working because they are out, or you are told to come after Eid,” he noted.

“I ask ‘Why after Eid?’ It is your job, you can do it now,” he said, adding that it shows their lack of focus and commitment to the job. Employees are required to work fewer hours during Ramadan, but some people still use fasting as an excuse to work less, he said.

“Fasting is a sacrifice to feel how the poor people feel. Islam has not advised that people should stop working because of fasting. It is clear in the fact that the Battle of Badr during the era of the Prophet (PBUH) took place in Ramadan,” he noted.

Unlike the past, Oman’s economy is no longer a small economy and its interaction with the rest of the world has increased, he said, and added that when you are part of the global village, delays in transactions and missing deadlines have a negative impact on the country.

In addition, he said that it is not only the matter of Eid Al Fitr, employees tend to be in a holiday mood before and after every long holiday in Oman.

Night working hours The businessman also suggested that night working hours should be introduced in banks during Ramadan so that employees do not have to wait for long hours in crowded banks in the morning, which may reduce the time they have to spend at their organisations or companies.

Haidar, an Omani economic expert, says that it was not true that people become ‘lazy’ during Ramadan as they are involved in other activities of a different nature during the day.

He said that people are busy the whole year and Ramadan is a good chance for them to spend more time with their families and reflect more on some other aspects of life, which is necessary for a balanced life.

“We need all kinds of activities in our life and money is not the only objective,” he added.

“Ramadan does not mean that we should be lazy. It should be the month of working more,” said Haidar, adding that if employees seem to be lazy during this month, it is because of the fact that they get less sleep as they get up early or sleep late because of their religious practices and also because they take no food and water while fasting.

He did not think business activities stop completely during this month, therefore, the economy is not negatively impacted.

The holiday period during this month in Oman is like Christmas holidays, said Haidar, and added that employees would be fresh after this month.

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

REGION

US Secretary of State John Kerry and Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif have stayed behind in Vienna, along with EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, in an attempt to break the logjam while most of the other foreign ministers returned to their capitals.

30 soldiers killed in air raids, clashes at Yemen army base Saudi-led jets dropped bombs when dozens of soldiers defected and announced their support for Houthi rebels, prompting clashes with progovernment troops

ADEN: At least 30 Yemeni soldiers were killed in coalition air raids and clashes after troops attempted to defect to rebel ranks near the border with Saudi Arabia, a military source said on Wednesday.

Saudi-led coalition jets, which have bombed Yemeni rebel positions since March, intervened when “dozens of soldiers defected and announced their support” for Houthi rebels on Tuesday, prompting clashes with pro-government troops, the source said.

The incident took place at the 23rd Mechanised Brigade, stationed near the border with Saudi Arabia and left “at least 30 soldiers killed and dozens wounded” on both sides, he said.

“Armoured vehicles and troop carriers were destroyed or damaged” in the air raids and clashes between rival units before the situation was brought under control, the source added.

Troops loyal to former president Ali Abdullah Saleh have joined forces with the Houthi rebels, who seized the capital almost unresisted in September before advancing southwards in the Gulf

DESTROYED: Houthi militants stand by at a truck destroyed by a car bomb attack near a mosque in Yemen’s capital Sanaa late Tuesday. – Reuters

country. In the country’s main southern city of Aden, heavy fighting raged between rebels and progovernment forces, residents said.

Military sources said that the rebels fired rockets at a residential district killing eight civilians, among them three children.

Meanwhile, the rebel-controlled sabanews.net website reported that around 40 inmates escaped in a jailbreak after coalition jets bombed the area surrounding a prison in Mahawit province, northwest of the capital.

The UN says more than 3,200 people have been killed and 1.26 million displaced in Yemen since fighting broke out in March.

Yemen is running critically short of imported food and fuel as war has cut internal supply lines and a near-blockade by the Saudiled naval forces has held up shipping to the country.

Ground combat between various Yemeni armed factions and Saudi-led air strikes have deep-

COURT VERDICT

Four acquitted The other four defendants were acquitted. Around 600 bodies of victims have been exhumed from burial sites in the Tikrit area. Footage released by IS last year shows some of the captured recruits were shot and pushed into the Tigris river. The defendants were brought into the courtroom blindfolded, handcuffed and chained by their feet. Proceedings were conducted expeditiously.

Relatives of some of the Speicher massacre victims were heard by the court asking that the perpetrators of what is one of IS’s worst atrocities be punished.

A court-appointed defence lawyer spoke briefly to ask for leniency but did not challenge the evidence, which consisted mainly of confessions that the defendants themselves claimed were obtained

Humanitarian aid According to a humanitarian aid assessment compiled by the US Navy, just 42 ships reached Yemen with goods in June compared with 100 in March.

Further data was not available.

Before the crisis, the number of ships making calls to Yemen’s major southern port of Aden alone averaged over 1,000 annually in

recent years. The 15-page report, which bears the insignia of the US Navy’s Central Command and the Saudi flag, has been circulated among coalition militaries and humanitarian agencies which send in aid with the Saudi alliance’s approval.

The report said imports into embattled Aden’s terminals had halted almost completely, with port calls by cargo, container ships and fuel tankers down over 75 per cent between January and June versus the same period last year.

Aid agencies have called for an immediate humanitarian truce and warned that their efforts alone cannot meet Yemen’s vast needs. More than half the population lacks proper food, and commercial imports of fuel, food and medicine are “severely” below pre-crisis levels, the UN agency OCHA said on Wednesday.

“Whatever we bring... is clearly not sufficient. What you need for

22 killed as Arab, Berber communities clash in Algiers ALGIERS: At least 22 people have died in clashes between Berber and Arab communities in southern Algeria on the edge of the Sahara desert, the national news agency APS reported on Wednesday.

It was the bloodiest toll in two years of frequent clashes between the communities.

APS said another 19 people wounded in two days of clashes between Chaamba Arabs and Mozabite Berbers in the M’zab valley had died of their injuries, raising the toll since Tuesday to 22.

Dozens hurt Dozens of other people were hurt in the Tuesday-Wednesday violence, the agency said, citing hospital sources and local officials.

Homes, shops, public buildings, cars and palm groves were set on fire in the area of Guerrara and the region’s main town of Ghardaia, 600 kilometres (370 miles) south of Algiers.

Interior Minister Nouredine Bedoui travelled to the stricken region, APS reported.

A security source told AFP that police reinforcements were despatched from Algiers.

The latest round of clashes in M’zab broke out last week, prompting the deployment of antiriot personnel who have fired tear gas to disperse crowds.

Ransacked Hundreds of homes and shops, mostly of Mozabites, have been ransacked in and around Ghardaia since centuries-old good ties between the area’s Arabs and Berbers broke down in December 2013, mostly over property disputes and after vandals destroyed a historic Berber shrine in December 2013.

Ghardaia is a UNESCO world heritage site renowned for its traditional white-washed houses and bustling market, selling jewellery, carpets and leather. — AFP

DEADLOCK CONTINUES

Iraq sentences 24 to death over 2014 Tikrit massacre BAGHDAD: An Iraqi court on Wednesday sentenced 24 men to hang over the June 2014 massacre by militants and allies of hundreds of military recruits in Tikrit.

The central criminal court in Baghdad handed 24 of 28 defendants the maximum sentence over the “Speicher” massacre, named after the base from which the victims were captured before being executed. “After deliberations, the court finds that the evidence collected is sufficient to convict 24 defendants,” said the judge. “The court decided they will be executed by hanging.”

All 24 denied any involvement in the massacre, committed during the first days of the IS militant group’s broad offensive in Iraq.

ened the plight of civilians in Yemen, with the United Nations saying more than 80 per cent of its 25 million people need some form of emergency aid.

Before Saudi Arabia intervened in March, Yemen imported more than 90 per cent of its food, mostly by sea. Since then, many shipping companies have pulled out. Those still willing to bring cargoes face incalculable delays and mandatory searches by coalition warships hunting for arms bound for the Houthis, the dominant warring faction.

Aden in particular and for the country as a whole is to resume commercial imports into the country. Whatever we do as humanitarian workers is only a fraction of what is actually needed,” Antoine Grand, head of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Yemen, said on Tuesday.

“This is clearly deteriorating by the day, and that’s what makes this situation so catastrophic,” Grand told a UN briefing in Geneva by telephone from Sanaa.

Over 3,000 people have died in the conflict. Nationwide fuel shortages have spread disease and suffering in arid Yemen, where access to water mostly depends on fuel-powered pumps.

Aid and commercial assessments show Yemen needs to import over 500,000 tonnes of fuel every month. The US aid report said Yemen had managed to import only 11 per cent of its monthly fuel needs in June versus 18 per cent in May, 1 per cent in April and 23 per cent in March, with the country facing a 1.8 million tonne shortfall in fuel imports.

“On average (there is) less than one hour of electricity per day,” it said. “The lack of storage capacity and fuel for milling of grain into flour is discouraging traders from taking orders for more grain.”

Despair reigns among residents of Aden largely pinned down by artillery battles between Houthi fighters and local militia in one of the country’s deadliest and most deprived war zones. “Nothing remains of normal life for people here because of the siege imposed by the Houthis and because food and fuel are not coming in,” retiree Abu Bakr Ahmed said. “On top of this, there’s indiscriminate shelling by mortars and Katyusha rockets almost all the time. Water and electricity are cut, all while temperatures range from 40-45 degrees (104-113 degrees Fahrenheit). The state of people’s lives and health here is awful.” — Agencies

VIOLENCE

NO END IN SIGHT: Iraqi fighters

fire towards IS militant group positions during clashes on the northern outskirts of Fallujah, on Tuesday. – AFP

under torture. The judge showed one defendant a grainy printout of a grab from the video footage of the massacre. “Is that you?,” he asked.

The accused answered negatively, as did several fellow defendants when the judge flashed confession documents and asked them to confirm their authenticity.

Some defendants swore they were not even close to Tikrit on June 11 last year, others that they never saw a lawyer.

According to rights watchdog Amnesty International, Iraq executed at least 61 people in 2014, ranking fourth among countries carrying out the most executions.

Combined with a call by the country’s top cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali Al Sistani for Iraqis to take up arms against them, the Speicher massacre played a key role in the mass recruitment of volunteers to fight the militants. One of the spots where the Speicher cadets were executed is a police building in the sprawling Tikrit palace complex former president Saddam Hussein built in his hometown. — AFP

Iran offers ‘constructive solutions’ to resolve disputes in nuclear talks VIENNA: Iran has offered “constructive solutions” to resolve disputes in nuclear talks with six major powers, the Iranian Students News Agency (ISNA) reported on Wednesday, but Western officials suggested they had heard nothing new from Tehran.

Iran and the powers are in the last stretch of talks to reach a final agreement to end a more than 12-year standoff over Iran’s nuclear programme. The aim is to lift sanctions in exchange for at least a decade of curbs on the programme.

“Iran has presented constructive solutions to overcome the remaining differences. We will not show flexibility regarding our red lines,” an Iranian diplomat, who was not identified, told ISNA. But Western officials indicated they had yet to see substantive new proposals. The biggest sticking points include issues such as a United Nations arms embargo, UN missile sanctions, the speed of sanctions relief, and research and development on advanced nuclear centrifuges. “I haven’t seen anything new from Iran,” a Western diplomat close to the talks told Reuters on condition of anonymity. Another Western official echoed the remarks.

US Secretary of State John Kerry and Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif have stayed behind in Vienna, along with EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, in an attempt to break the logjam while most of the other foreign ministers returned to their capitals.

Air-conditioning systems in the luxurious Palais Coburg hotel are struggling with outside temperatures approaching 40 Celsius (104 Fahrenheit), and some negotiators have found it hard to keep their cool during the discussions, officials say. Kerry and Zarif were involved in a tense exchange over UN sanctions on Monday night, diplomats said. Tehran says conventional weapons and missiles have nothing to do with the nuclear issue and embargoes should therefore be removed. “There was no slamming of doors but it was a very

THE VENUE: A French television crew makes a late report from outside of the Palais Coburg Hotel,

where the Iran nuclear talks meetings are being held, in Vienna, Austria on Tuesday. – AFP

heated exchange of views,” one of the senior Western diplomats said.

Iran’s official news agency IRNA quoted unnamed residents at the Palais as saying Kerry and Zarif could be heard shouting at each other during a one-on-one meeting on Monday. A Kerry aide had gone in to tell them that they could be heard clearly.

Western countries accuse Iran of seeking the capability to build nuclear weapons, while Tehran says its programme is peaceful.

A successful deal could be the biggest milestone in decades towards easing relations between Iran and the United States.

It would also be a political success for both US President Barack Obama and Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani, both of whom face scepticism from powerful hardliners at home. Iran, the United States, Britain, France, Germany, Russia and China have given themselves at least until Friday, but a source from one of the powers said on Tuesday they had to wrap up in the next 48 hours.

A senior US official told reporters on Tuesday: “I believe we will

in the near term either get this deal or find out we can’t.”

The disagreements over UN Security Council sanctions are among the most difficult.

Russia and China, which have never hidden their dislike of sanctions, had indicated they would support the termination of the United Nations arms embargo and missile sanctions on Iran, both of which date back to 2006.

In the end, however, they agreed not to break ranks with the Americans and Europeans, who want to maintain the measures given the instability in the Middle East. “In the current context, it would be pretty obscene as a political message if we resolve the nuclear issue but then give them money and the capacity to import and export arms,” a senior Western official said.

Russia is especially sensitive about sanctions, Western officials say, due to the fact that it itself is under US and European Union sanctions over allegations that it is supporting pro-Moscow rebels in eastern Ukraine, which it denies. French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius and British For-

eign Secretary Philip Hammond were expected to return to Vienna on Wednesday evening.

US and European officials have indicated that they are prepared to walk away if there is not a deal soon, while the Iranians have said they are happy to continue negotiating. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has the power to block a deal, last month ruled out either a long freeze of sensitive nuclear work or opening military sites to inspectors.

Western officials say Khamenei’s “red lines” have made things more difficult for the Iranian delegation. “There is a sort of ‘good-cop/ bad-cop’ between Zarif and the supreme leader,” a Western official said. “Zarif is under a lot of pressure.”

The latest extension of the talks to Friday left open the possibility an agreement would not arrive in time to secure a 30-day review period by the Republican-dominated US Congress.

If a deal is sent to Congress after July 9, the period grows to 60 days, increase the chance that the deal could unravel. — Reuters

T H U R S DAY, JU LY 9, 2 0 1 5

INDIA

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Congress for two separate CBI inquiries into Vyapam scam

PHILANTHROPY

Wipro boss gives away half of stake to charity

truth. The matter is closed for BJP after this request,” BJP national secretary Shrikant Sharma said.

This demand was made by Congress spokesman R. P. N. Singh who targeted Madhya Pradesh chief minister of ‘hoodwinking’ the people by not even mentioning the probe into the deaths in his communication to the High Court DEMANDING RESIGNATION: Police stop Youth Congress activists during a protest near BJP office in

NEW DELHI: The Congress New Delhi on Wednesday. They were demanding the resignation of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister on Wednesday pitched for two Shivraj Singh Chouhan and a CBI probe into the death of people linked with Vyapam scam. - PTI separate CBI inquiries into the Vyapam scam monitored by the recruitment scam in Haryana are example of what a nexus of corSupreme Court — one into the fair investigation and justice.

“Since his continuation as Chief “prime examples” which are simi- rupt pillars of democracy can do massive scandal itself and anothto make money, save accused and er in the mysterious deaths and Minister with unbound abilities lar to Vyapam scam.

“Why should there be a differ- eliminate dissent”, Singh, a forof favours and fear, will make any murders of 49 people.

This demand was made by par- investigation meaningless and in- ent criteria for investigating Vya- mer Madhya Pradesh chief minister said. ty spokesman R P N Singh who fructuous”, the Congress demands pam?”, he asked.

Congress General Secretary targeted Madhya Pradesh Chief once again that Chouhan resigns Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan immediately as CM, pending in- Digvijay Singh, who is among Politics of lies those who have filed a petition in After embattled Madhya Pradesh of “hoodwinking” the people by vestigation, Singh said. the Supreme Court on the issue, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh not even mentioning the probe expressed confidence that truth Chouhan requested High Court into the deaths in his communica- Complicity for a CBI probe in the Vyapam Detailing the role played by would ultimately prevail. tion to the High Court.

“The whole Nation is waiting scam, BJP on Wednesday said the He said that two separate in- Chouhan, he said it left “no doubt quiries are called for as facts now about the CM’s complicity, cul- for Hon Supreme Court for their matter was closed for it even as it reveal that 19 year old Namatara pability and collusion” in the decision on 9th in Vyapam. I am accused Congress of playing “polisure truth would prevail”, he said tics of lies” even in the sudden Damor was killed instead of the Vyapam Scam. deaths in the case.

This he said required that the in a series of tweets. “suicide” which the STF claims.

“Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Insisting that the issue should He told reporters that the way chief minister’s role as the “kingthe things are unfolding in the pin is probed thoroughly with a not be seen as one political party Chouhan has requested the High against another, he said “Anyone Court for a CBI probe into the Vyascam, the “only inescapable con- tooth comb.”

Making a strong case for a CBI who has cheated and duped inno- pam scam, including the sudden clusion is that the continuation of deaths that are being linked to the Chouhan as CM even for a single probe, he noted that the fodder cent people should be punished.”

“What is Vyapam? A shining scam. The probe will bring out the day” will go against any interest of scam in Bihar and the Teachers FRESH CONTROVERSY

‘Raje backed Lalit for Padma award’ JAIPUR: Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje was on Wednesday at the centre of a fresh controversy over reports suggesting that she had recommended former IPL chief Lalit Modi for a Padma award in 2007.

While the chief minister’s press advisor refused to comment on media reports, Rajasthan Sports Minister Gajendra Singh said, “I do not have any idea about

A9

it” on being asked whether Raje had sent such a recommendation.

Proposal Raje had reportedly forwarded Lalit Modi’s name to the state’s sports council citing grounds of his vast business empire and his contributions to development of cricket in the state.

When contacted, Subhash Joshi, who was then Honor-

ary Secretary to the Rajasthan Cricket Association(RCA) said, “Rajasthan State Sports Council’s (RSSC) Secretary had sent us a letter for submitting Padma award proposal of Lalit Modi as he was RCA President and BCCI Vice President on July 27, 2007.”

“RSSC had sent a letter seeking the details and papers of Lalit Modi (LaMo) from RCA”, Joshi said. -PTI

Baseless allegations Attacking the Congress, he said the opposition party is making false and baseless allegations and has now resorted to doing politics on the sudden deaths.

“Congress, which has been a brand ambassador of corruption and misgovernance, is making baseless and senseless allegations while trying to wipe their blackened faces due to the Coal scam.

“Congress has failed while making false and baseless allegations ever since the NDA government came to power and is now resorting to politics on the sudden deaths being linked to the scam. The probe will bring out the truth,” Sharma said.

The BJP leader said it was Chouhan himself who had ordered a probe in 2013 after he found irregularities in recruitments made, in a bid to bring in transparency in the system.

He said during the Congress regime, there was no system of recruitments.

The probe ordered by Chouhan registered 55 FIR and arrests of 2,000 of the total 2,500 accused were made. On the sudden deaths, Sharma said, Congress is now playing “politics of deaths” by trying to link the Vyapam issue with these deaths.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Wednesday favoured setting up of a special bench to hear bail and other matters relating to the Vyapam scam in Madhya Pradesh and granted liberty to an accused to mention it before a bench headed by the Chief Justice of India. - PTI

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Azim Premji

BENGALURU: IT czar Azim Premji has given away almost half of his stakeholding in Wipro, India’s third largest exporter of software services, to charity.

The Wipro’s billionaire founder has given away an additional 18 per cent of his stake in the IT company for charity, thus earmarking 39 per cent of stake (worth Rs53,284 crore) for a charitable trust.

The latest philanthrophic initiative by Premji would pump in an additional Rs530 crore by way of dividends into the Azim Premji Trust’s corpus this year.

Sixty-nine-year old Premji is the first Indian to sign the Giving Pledge, sponsored by billionaires Warren Buffett and Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates to invite the world’s wealthiest to donate majority of their wealth to charity.

“Over the past fifteen years, I have tried to put this belief into action through my personal philanthropic work...,” Premji said in a letter to shareholders published in the company’s annual report for the year ended March 2015.

The previously transferred 21 per cent stake was estimated at $4.3 billion. The promoter group led by Premji holds 73.39 per cent stake in Wipro.

Premji was considered the ‘most generous Indian’ of 2014 according to the Hurun India Philanthropy List. - PTI

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

T H U R S DAY, JU LY 9, 2 0 1 5

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It is my responsibilty to return, help: Malala Pakistan’s education system, child labour and child marriage were also among the issues she discussed with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, said the young activist

The Nobel Peace Prize laureate said in Oslo that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif told her his government would support her if she

Nawaz Sharif

Malala Yousafzai

visited Pakistan

OSLO: Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai held their first official meeting on Wednesday after both attended a UN education summit in Oslo.

The 17-year-old activist, who was shot and nearly killed by the Taliban in Pakistan in October 2012 for insisting girls had a right to an education, said Sharif told her his government would support her if she decided to visit the country.

“He said my country is always

there for me. And I said that it is my responsibility as a Pakistani to return to Pakistan and help people there,” Malala, who has made her home in Britain, told public broadcaster NRK, adding that any visit would have to coincide with her school holidays.

The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) party posted a picture of the meeting on its official Twitter account.

The prime minister and the teen met briefly on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in September 2013, but this was their

first official meeting. Both were in Oslo after attending the twoday Oslo Summit on Education for Development, where Malala urged world leaders to cut “eight days of military spending” to give all children access to 12 years of free education.

Sharif and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi last year declined to attend the Nobel Peace Prize awards ceremony, where she collected the prize she shared with Indian child rights activist Kailash Satyarthi.

Malala became a global icon af-

PA R T Y R E J E C T S RU M OU R S

‘Zardari not married to Zamani’ KARACHI: Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP) rejected rumours of former president Asif Ali Zardari’s marriage to Tanvir Zamani.

“For several days Tanvir Zamani has been appearing regularly on television channels masquerading as a PPP leader and at times even as a spokesperson of the PPP. She is not a PPP leader and such an impression is totally wrong and misplaced,” PPP spokesper-

son Farhatullah Babar said in a statement released on Tuesday.

“It is categorically stated that Zamani holds no party office whatsoever either in Pakistan or in its overseas wing. Any impression of she being a party leader or an office bearer is either based on total ignorance or is mischievously motivated,” he added.

Further, Babar blamed media for the rumours of Zardari’s mar-

riage to Zamani. “A totally wrong impression is also sought to be created in the media interviews that former president Zardari has married this woman.”

“Rumours of Zardari marrying the lady in question have unfortunately been deliberately aided by the said lady. She has avoided answers to pointed questions and has spoken with a double tongue,” he said. — Express Tribune

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ter the Taliban attack in 2012.

She recovered after being flown for extensive surgery to Birmingham, central England, and has since continued both her education and activism. But she remains a figure of hate for many who resent having the country’s problems aired abroad. — AFP

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R E C O N C I L I AT I O N TA L K S

Afghan, Taliban negotiators agree to meet again ISLAMABAD: Afghan and Taliban representatives have agreed to meet again after landmark through-the-night talks aimed at ending the militants’ 13-year insurgency, Pakistan said Wednesday.

A delegation of the Afghan High Peace Council (HPC), the body tasked with opening negotiations, met the Taliban in the town of Murree, a hill station north of Islamabad, the Pakistani foreign ministry said in a statement.

Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif hailed the meeting as a breakthrough, though the Taliban show no sign of easing up on their bloody summer offensive, launching two suicide attacks in Kabul on Tuesday as talks were about to get under way.

Few details were released about what was discussed, but a foreign ministry spokesman said the talks lasted through the night, concluding at suhoor.

“The participants exchanged views on ways and means to bring peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan,” the statement said, adding that the two sides had agreed to approach the talks with “sincerity and... full commitment”.

US and Chinese representatives also attended, the Pakistani foreign ministry said “The participants agreed to continue talks to create an environment conducive for (the) peace and reconciliation process.”

According to the foreign ministry, the next round of talks will be held at a “mutually convenient date” after Ramadan, which is due to end around July 18.

Several informal meetings have been held in recent months between Taliban representatives and Afghan officials and activists.

But the talks in Pakistan, led on the HPC side by deputy foreign minister Hekmat Khalil Karzai, are seen as a significant step.

It is the first time Kabul has publicly acknowledged that someone as senior as a minister was talking directly to the Taliban -- though some earlier meetings were shrouded in secrecy, so it was not entirely clear who took part. — AFP

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Greece is not the only reason euro is failing

STEPHEN CARTER

reece’s government seems determined to incur the world’s blame for the emergent economic turmoil in Europe. Mark Gilbert summed it up accurately for Bloomberg View: “The nation’s stubborn contradictory stance -- yes to the euro, no to the conditions of continued membership -- isn’t consistent with the euro’s future well-being.”

But it isn’t just the Greeks who have incompatible goals in this affair. Leaders of the other countries in the euro area have contradictory desires as well, and their failure to choose among them has contributed to the mess.

Germany, especially, wants to minimise inflation, bailouts and the risk of an exodus from the currency union. These three goals are in great tension with one another. If they can be reconciled at all, it would require a degree of fiscal centralisation that looks politically impossible.

The euro was always intended as a political project at least as much as an economic one. It was a step toward the unification of European nations more than a way of reducing transaction costs between them.

Some prominent economists, such as Milton Friedman, warned against adopting it. Over the past few years, its inherent flaws have become painfully manifest. But European leaders have been willing to impose immense economic pain to keep it going.

Friedman’s core argument was that the euro would impose a common monetary policy on economies that required different ones. So it has proven. During the boom years a decade ago, Greece and other countries on Europe’s periphery over-borrowed be-

cause interest rates were inappropriately low for them.

During the bust, the European Central Bank’s efforts to keep inflation low in the core has led to a punishing deflation in the periphery. The ECB raised interest rates in 2008 and 2011 -- at both the start and the middle of Greece’s depressions.

It could have been predicted, and was, that the euro would suit Greece badly. And Greece has no one to blame but itself for freely signing up. But it’s also true that the ECB has conducted monetary policy more for Germany’s convenience than for the euro area as a whole.

Greece has long needed its wages and prices to fall relative to other European countries.

With an independent drachma, the necessary adjustment would have taken place in foreign-exchange markets. Even within the euro, a looser monetary policy would have enabled the relative shift in the form of higher prices in the core countries.

Instead, Europe has followed a course that entailed much more pain for the periphery. Debt relief and fiscal transfers would soften that pain, but naturally corecountry creditors and taxpayers are resistant to such policies -and seek to place conditions on them that the basket-case countries can’t easily accept.

Remember: The euro was adopted to advance political unity in Europe. It is instead causing deepening rancour (as Friedman also predicted). Judged either on economics or politics, the euro experiment is failing. -Bloomberg News Ramesh Ponnuru, a Bloomberg View columnist, is a senior editor for National Review and a visiting fellow at the American Enterprise Institute.

READERS’ FORUM Use solar power technology to reduce pollution This refers to the online story Oman to build world’s largest solar plant to extract oil (July 8). After reading this report I was left totally dumbfounded. For me it is an oxymoron that the renewable source of solar power will be used to extract fossil fuel. How about using solar power technology to remove dependency on oil and reduce pollution. — Jude Pandit , Toronto, Canada

Improve food quality

Scan this QR code to send letters to the Readers’ Forum, 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).

This refers to the online story Oman plan to upgrade Muttrah as a tourist destination (July 8). I would like the Muttrah locality to remain the way it is. However, it would be better if the quality of the food being sold in the area was improved.

In my opinion, the food isn’t very good here as there is simply no originality.

— Shannon Hadley, Muscat

Nowadays, we tend to think of anonymity mainly as connected to freedom of speech. The US Supreme Court has extolled the virtues of anonymous speech, and online the right is fiercely valued, if insufficiently guarded.

But anonymity also matters in the larger world bit.ly/oregontaxpermileage

CLIPPINGS

Upgradation to boost tourists from within country This refers to the online story Oman plan to upgrade Muttrah as a tourist destination (July 8). This is the right move in order to attract tourists from within the country. — Ali Amir, Muscat

Banana production in Oman

FROM OUR ARCHIVES JULY 2000 Municipal council meeting The fourth meeting of the Municipal Council was held here yesterday under the chairmanship of Engineer Abdullah bin Abbas bin Ahmed, president of the Muscat Municipality and council chairman. The meeting approved minutes of the council’s last meeting and reviewed what has been implemented of that meeting’s decision. A statement including the missions and achievements implemented by the directorate general of the Muscat Municipality in Quriyat was presented during the meeting.

Preserve landmarks

This refers to the online story Oman plan to upgrade Muttrah as a tourist destination (July 8). In my opinion, there is a need to have restaurants and cafes which sell inexpensive food. The area could also do with some more greenery and lavatories but without sacrificing its historical landmarks. Furthermore, security in the area needs to be improved and budget hotels set up.

— Shabib Al Kalbani, Muscat

PICTOGRAPH

(In million dollars)

1961

2.11

1983

9.85

1984

9.85

TODAY IN HISTORY

NEW INDIA ASSURANCE

1608: The first French settlement at Quebec is established by Samuel de Champlain.

Protect the welfare of your workforce through New India’s WORKMEN COMPENSATION POLICY.

1686: The Austrians take Budapest from the Turks and annex Hungary.

www.newindiaoman.com

1794: French troops capture Brussels, Belgium.

1918: Ernest Hemingway is wounded in Italy while working as an ambulance driver for the American Red Cross.

2004

9.58 2011

17.34

2012

17.74

Source: Food and Agriculture Organisation

T H U R S DAY, JU LY 9, 2 0 1 5

WORLD

Genocide occurred at Srebrenica. This is a legal fact, not a political judgment.

On this there is no compromise Peter Wilson, British Deputy Ambassador to United Nations

Russia vetoes UN resolution on massacre in Srebrenica Britain had put forward the text,

If the mothers of the boys executed in Srebrenica -executed just because they were Bosnian Muslims -were here today, they would ask how anybody would abstain on their reality

hoping the Security Council would formally recognise Europe’s worst atrocity since

Samantha Power

World War II as an

US Ambassador to the United Nations

act of genocide

UNITED NATIONS: Russia on Wednesday vetoed a draft UN resolution recognising the Srebrenica massacre as genocide, branding the measure “confrontational” and a setback to reconciliation in the Balkans.

Britain had put forward the text, hoping the Security Council would formally recognise Europe’s worst atrocity since World War II as an act of genocide for the first time and condemn genocide denial.

Angola, China, Nigeria and Venezuela abstained from the vote held just days before Bosnia is due to mark the 20th anniversary of the mass murder of 8,000 Muslim boys and men by Bosnian Serb forces in July 1995.

Russian Ambassador Vitaly Churkin slammed the draft resolution as “not constructive, confrontational and politically motivated” and argued that it unfairly singled out Bosnian Serbs for war crimes.

“The draft that we have in front of us will not help peace in the

Balkans but rather doom this region to tension,” Churkin told the council meeting that began with a minute of silence to remember the victims.

British Deputy Ambassador Peter Wilson accused Russia of siding “with those who are unwilling to accept the facts today.”

“Genocide occurred at Srebrenica. This is a legal fact, not a political judgment. On this there is no compromise,” he said.

Britain, Russia and the United States had been locked in intense negotiations over the past 24

A1 3

hours to try to avoid a veto and agree on a text.

But Moscow refused to drop its insistence that references to the Srebrenica killings as an act of genocide be scrapped, diplomats said.

Bosnian Serb leaders had called on Russia to use its veto power to block the resolution, arguing that it was “anti-Serb” because it highlighted the killings in the town in the final months of the war.

Serbia’s President Tomislav Nikolic proclaimed “this is a great day for Serbia” after the Russian

veto which he said had prevented the “stigmatisation of the entire Serbian people.”

In his statement to the council, Churkin argued that “hundreds of thousands of Serbs” lost their homes in the war and had “suffered as much as the others, if not more.”

The envoy maintained that revisiting the Srebrenica massacre should be left to historians and that the Security Council should focus instead on current conflicts.

US Ambassador Samantha Power, who worked as a journalist during the Bosnian war, took aim at Russia and the four countries that abstained from the vote.

“If the mothers of the boys executed in Srebrenica -- executed just because they were Bosnian Muslims -- were here today, they would ask how anybody would abstain on their reality,” she told the council. China had called on the council to refrain from a vote to allow more time for discussions on a draft text that would garner consensus.

Bosnian Serb forces commanded by General Ratko Mladic overran the UN-protected safe haven of Srebrenica on July 11, 1995 in what was to become one of the darkest chapters of the 1992-95 Bosnian war. — AFP

B A LT I M O R E

Three shot in US city as killings surge WASHINGTON: Gunmen killed three people and wounded one overnight near the University of Maryland, Baltimore, police said on Wednesday, the latest killings in a city that has seen an upturn in homicides following the death of Freddie Gray in April.

Two gunmen emerged from two vans and began shooting just before 11 pm on Tuesday (0300 GMT on Wednesday), campus police said in a statement.

A man died at the scene, Baltimore police said, and a man and a woman died while receiving medical treatment.

The fourth victim, a woman, was hospitalised.

Targeted incident “Three to four suspects are believed to be involved at this time.

This was not a random act of violence but was a targeted incident,” police said in a statement.

The shooting was not related to the university, the statement said.

The Baltimore Sun reported that shots had been fired into a vehicle travelling on the same block five days ago.

The shootings came as Baltimore is grappling with an upsurge in killings following the death of Gray, a 25-year-old black man, from an injury suffered in police custody. — Reuters

EUROZONE CRISIS

Greek meltdown would be geopolitical mistake: US WASHINGTON: The Obama administration warned Europe on Wednesday that allowing a financial and economic meltdown in Greece would be a geopolitical mistake.

US Treasury Secretary Jack Lew said he has been in constant contact with European officials regarding Greece’s debt crisis, which threatens to compromise

Europe’s monetary union and create instability in a region critical to US interests.

“There’s a lot of unknowns if this goes to a place that completely melts down in Greece,” Lew said. If that happened, he said, “it’s geopolitically a mistake.”

An increasingly plausible Greek exit from the euro zone could trigger an even deeper financial and

economic crisis in Greece.

European officials have said strategic interests play a role in dealing with Greece, which is a member of the US-led NATO military alliance but also has ties to Russia, America’s old Cold War foe.

Lew’s comments were the first forceful acknowledgement from the Obama administration

that it too sees a Greek exit as a geopolitical threat and not just an economic risk.

Washington has been quietly prodding Athens and its international creditors to reach a deal that sets Greece on a path to economic growth while also giving it a break on its debt. Most of Greece’s debts are owed to European governments, the European Central Bank

and the International Monetary Fund. Now Washington appears to be loosing patience, and Lew for the first time gave public advice on how Greece and its creditors could reach a deal.

He said there was “deep reluctance” by many European players over changing the terms of Greek debts to make it easier for Athens to pay, but that Europeans would

need credible promises from Athens over reform.

“Those kinds of things can be coordinated. We have debates in the United States where we talk about triggers. We say ‘if you do X we do Y,’” Lew said. “I hope that’s where the discussion over the next few days goes. Because that’s the space where I see the possibility of a resolution.” — Reuters

A 14

THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

WORLD

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Myanmar to hold historic election on November 8

BANGLADESH

Court orders prosecution of inspectors in factory disaster

tary’s effective veto on constitutional change.

The announcement fires the starting gun for the muchanticipated poll in the former junta-run nation, which has launched a series of reforms since the end of outright military rule in 2011

GEARING UP: National League for Democracy chairperson Aung San Suu Kyi checking a voters’ list

during her door-to-door visit for a voter education campaign in Wartheinkha, in Kawtmu township, some two hours outside Yangon, recently. - AFP file photo

YANGON: Myanmar officials on Wednesday announced November 8 as the date for a historic general election set to be the first contested by Aung San Suu Kyi’s opposition in a quarter of a century.

The announcement fires the starting gun for the much-anticipated poll in the former juntarun nation, which has launched a series of reforms since the end of outright military rule in 2011.

“The general election will be held on November 8. The Union Election Commission will announce further details later,” Thant Zin Aung, deputy director of Yangon’s election commission, told AFP of the vote, which will select member of parliaments for both houses of parliament.

A president will be chosen lat-

er by parliament, but Suu Kyi is barred by the constitution from taking the top job.

Expected to win The Nobel laureate’s National League for Democracy (NLD) party did not immediately confirm it would participate in the polls, although it is widely expected to make huge gains at the ballot box.

“We cannot say whether we will take part right now. We need to hold a meeting to make a decision,” spokesman Nyan Win said.

For many of Myanmar’s roughly 30 million voters the election could be the first-ever chance to cast their votes in a nationwide poll contested by the country’s main opposition.

SETBACK

The NLD won nationwide polls in 1990, while Suu Kyi was under house arrest, but was prevented from taking power by the military, who plunged the country into isolation for decades.

Suu Kyi spent some 15 years under house arrest and was still locked up during the last general election in 2010, which was boycotted by the NLD and riven with flaws and accusations of cheating.

But the veteran campaigner and some 44 of her party members now sit in parliament following a 2012 by-election held as part of sweeping reforms under a quasi-civilian government dominated by former generals that replaced nearly half a century of military rule.

The government under President Thein Sein, a former general, has been credited with ending draconian media censorship, freeing political prisoners and launching economic reforms that have seen the lifting of most Western sanctions.

Reforms stalled But Suu Kyi and rights campaigners have increasingly warned that reforms have stalled or even reversed in some areas, with dozens of student protesters behind bars and the tightening of media freedoms.

Last month she vowed not to “back down” from the election despite defeat in a parliamentary vote aimed at ending the mili-

Dominated by army Myanmar’s parliament continues to be dominated by the army, with a quarter of the seats reserved for unelected soldiers. This provision means any major charter change needs a majority of more than 75 per cent — giving the military the final say.

The result of the recent vote virtually extinguished Suu Kyi’s chances of the presidency at this stage because of a provision excluding those with foreign children from the top office. Her sons are British.

With Suu Kyi barred from the top job and no obvious second candidate within the NLD, observers predict the party could end up supporting a presidential candidate outside its ranks.

Experts fear that horsetrading between the election and the announcement of presidential candidates several months later could trigger instability in the nation, where the military has a history of slamming down on dissent.

The NLD has already raised concerns that voter lists displayed across the country are riven with inaccuracies.

Election officials on Wednesday conceded that the lists contain errors, blaming technical faults and staff shortages.

The NLD, which has come under fire for failing to outline specific policy ideas as the poll looms, Wednesday said it was poised to release a much-awaited statement on the economy, health, security and education. -AFP

NO ESCAPE: Bangladesh owner of the collapsed Rana Plaza building Sohel Rana, second left, is escorted by security personnel ahead of his appearance at a court in Dhaka on Tuesday. - AFP

DHAKA: A Bangladesh court Wednesday ordered the government to allow the prosecution of four inspectors for mass murder over the 2013 Rana Plaza factory disaster to go ahead after ministries tried to stall their cases.

Police filed charges last month against 41 people over the collapse of the garment factory complex in April 2013 when more than 1,100 people were crushed to death in a suburb of the capital Dhaka.

Among those facing murder charges are three factory inspectors who work for the labour ministry and a building inspector employed by the local government ministry. But under Bangladeshi law, their cases cannot proceed without the express approval by the relevant government ministry or agency which has so far been withheld in all four cases.

But on Wednesday senior judicial magistrate Shahinur Rahman ordered the two ministries to drop their objections, according to prosecution and defence lawyers. - AFP

C O R RU P T I O N A L L E G AT I O N S

Afghan lawmakers Malaysian police raid investment fund office reject female apex court nominee KABUL: Afghan lawmakers on Wednesday rejected the first ever female nominee for the country’s Supreme Court, a setback to the government’s efforts to promote women to high-profile positions.

President Ashraf Ghani had nominated Anisa Rasouli, the head of the Afghan Woman Judges’ Association and a juvenile court judge to join the Supreme Court’s nine-member bench in a move that angered some conservatives.

Rasouli’s nomination to the highest court was the first such appointment in the country’s history but needed to be approved by the country’s parliament.

Vote of confidence “Unfortunately, Anisa Rasouli... could not get the vote of confidence to become a member of the Supreme Court. We ask the president to introduce another candidate,” Abdul Zahir Qadeer, deputy chairman of the parliament, told the session after a secrete vote.

Rasouli needed 97 votes out of 193 to win, but managed only 88 votes with the MPs approving another male member of the Supreme Court and the gover-

nor of the central bank. “What happened today was a disaster, we hope the president introduces another woman candidate to compensate for this failure,” female MP Shukria Barakzai said. Rasouli’s nomination to the country’s highest court was part of efforts by Ghani’s unity government to promote more women to high-profile positions, since he and his Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah assumed office last September.

Under the constitution, Supreme Court judges have fixed 10-year terms. In April lawmakers approved Ghani’s nominees for a number of cabinet positions, including four women.

The former academic and World Bank economist has already appointed two female governors for the provinces of Ghor and Daikundi, moves hailed by rights campaigners.

He has also asked his cabinet ministers to appoint female deputy ministers. But the moves have angered some influential scholars in the country. Last month a group of clerics gathered in Kabul to protest at the possible appointment of a female judge to the Supreme Court. - AFP

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian police raided the office of troubled state investment fund 1MDB on Wednesday, following a report that claimed investigators looking into the firm found nearly $700 million had been transferred to Prime Minister Najib Razak’s bank account.

Najib has denied taking any money and said the corruption allegations are part of a malicious campaign to force him out of office.

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported last week that investigators probing 1MDB had traced funds flowing into Najib’s personal account when he was campaigning for a general election over two years ago.

“We can confirm that a number of officials from the task force, conducting an enquiry into 1MDB, visited our offices today (on Wednesday),” 1MDB said in a statement.

“They were provided with a number of documents and materials to aid with the investigations currently taking place.”

Investigation A police spokeswoman confirmed the raid, but did not give any further details. 1MDB, a propertyto-energy group whose advisory board is chaired by Najib, has debts of around $11 billion.

Even before the WSJ report it was the subject of separate investigations by the central bank, auditor general, police and the

task force probing 1MDB, said the documents were already the subject matter of an investigation.

UNDER PROBE: Malaysian police seize equipment from the 1Malay-

sia Development Berhad office in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday. - AFP

parliament’s Public Accounts Committee.

The Wall Street Journal report, citing documents from a government investigation, said there were five deposits into Najib’s account. The two largest transactions, worth $620 million and $61 million, were made in March 2013 during the election campaign, the paper said. It said they came from a company registered in the British Virgin Islands via the Singapore branch of Falcon Private Bank.

Reuters has not independently verified the WSJ report.

Singapore’s central bank said on Wednesday that it would provide assistance to Malaysia and

share information where it was legally able to. Falcon Private Bank, a Swiss private bank owned by Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund International Petroleum Investment Company, said it was already in contact with the Monetary Authority of Singapore and would be fully transparent with the authorities.

Money trail On Tuesday, the Journal released what it said were government documents from the probe of the prime minister, detailing a money trail that it said led to his personal bank account.

The Attorney-General Abdul Gani Patail, who is part of a special

Bank accounts frozen A task force investigating 1MDB said it had frozen half a dozen bank accounts this week in relation to the allegations. But Abdul Gani said that the freeze order did not involve any bank accounts allegedly held by Najib.

The furore surrounding 1MDB and the ensuing political crisis have spooked financial markets.

The ringgit is trading at a 16year low against the dollar and has weakened past the old currency peg of 3.80 per dollar, fixed in September 1998 during the Asian financial crisis and scrapped in 2005.

The benchmark stock index dropped to its lowest in a week.

1MDB bonds also took a hit following the raid. The 4.4 percent 2023 bonds are trading down 2 points at 82 cents on the dollar.

In a statement on his Facebook page after the raids, Najib said that he has instructed his lawyers to send a letter to the Journal.

“Accusations by the Wall Street Journal are malicious and supported by certain quarters in the country with the purpose of forcing me to quit as prime minister and president of UMNO,” said Najib, referring to his party the United Malays National Organisation. - Reuters

C I V I L WA R

No peace as long as Kiir remains in power: South Sudan rebel leader NAIROBI: The leader of South Sudan’s rebels said on Wednesday that the country’s civil war would continue as long as President Salva Kiir remained in power.

“We don’t feel like we have a peace partner with Salva Kiir,” Riek Machar told reporters in a luxury hotel in the Kenyan capital, saying that previous ceasefires he had signed with the government during the course of the 18-monthold conflict were “born dead”.

“The people of South Sudan did not deserve to go back to war, but this was caused by the actions of President Salva Kiir, who we ask to resign today,” Machar said.

“Should President Kiir remain adamant and refuse to hand over power back to the people, then the citizens have every right to rise up and overthrow his regime.”

The comments came as South

sisted he too was a “victim”.

“I am a victim, just like all the other victims who died, except I am not dead,” he said.

Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, prepares to mark the fourth anniversary of its independence from Khartoum on Thursday, an event that marked an end to decades of war but only provided a brief respite from conflict.

Retaliatory killings The civil war in the new nation began when Kiir accused Machar, a former vice president, of planning a coup, setting off a cycle of retaliatory killings that has split the poverty-stricken, landlocked country along ethnic and tribal lines.

A UN report last month described horrific violence in the latest fighting, with witnesses saying troops gang-raped girls and torched them alive in huts. Large numbers of child soldiers have also been recruited.

Fighters on both sides are ac-

I am a victim, just like all the other victims who died, except I am not dead Riek Machar

Rebel leader

cused of atrocities, and analysts believe tens of thousands of people have died since the war began.

The United Nations has also described South Sudan as being

“lower in terms of human development than just about every other place on earth”.

Machar rejected accusations levelled at his own troops and in-

Mandate extended South Sudan’s parliament voted in March to extend Kiir’s mandate by three years, formally ditching any plans for elections originally due to take place this year.

Machar said the extension was meaningless, and that as the original mandate ended on Thursday, the rebels considered the government to be “unconstitutional and illegitimate”.

Last week, the UN Security Council imposed a travel ban and asset freeze on six commanders — three from the government side and three rebels.

But Machar, who last month welcomed into his ranks a rogue ex-

government general, Johnson Olony — who has been accused of forcibly recruiting hundreds of child soldiers — defended the rebel trio.

“All of them are innocent,” he said. Speaking ahead of the independence anniversary, aid agencies repeated their calls for an end to the war.

“The people of South Sudan desperately need an immediate end to this war, so that they can get food and other life-saving assistance.

We strongly appeal to all parties to the conflict to allow people to safely reach humanitarian assistance,” said Oxfam’s Zlatko Gegic.

Aid groups say about 3.8 million people, or a third of the population, are going hungry.

“It is one of the world’s biggest humanitarian crises today,” said Simon Mansfield of the European Commission’s aid unit ECHO. - AFP

B

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM THUR SDAY, JULY 9, 2015

MARKE Muscat 6,402.65 - 25.81 - 0.40%

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Abu Dhabi 4,716.44 - 8.10 - 0.17%

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Saudi Arabia

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CRUDE OIL PRICE

CURRENCY RATES*

DRAFT RATES (OMR1)*

GOLD PRICES*

Type ............................Delivery...........Price

Forex rates vs OMR1* US Dollar ................................. 2.58 Euro ............................................ 2.33 Pound ........................................... 1.67 Indian Rs ............................. 164.72 Pak Rs ....................................260.01 Bangla Taka.......................199.52

Indian Rs .................................. 165.05 Pakistan Rs ............................ 263.50 Sri Lanka Rs .......................... 346.35 Bangla Taka.............................201.70 Phil Peso .................................... 116.85

Muscat 24ct per gm (OMR) .......14.80

Oman Crude............. (Spot) ........$56.05 Dubai Crude ............. (Spot) ........$55.85 Murban Crude ........ (Spot) ..........$57.71 Arabian Light ......... (Spot) ........$55.95 N.Sea Brent............... (Spot) .........$57.22 West Texas Int ....... (Spot) ........ $52.45

* Rates as of July 8 Source: Oman UAE Exchange

* Rates are as of July 8 Source: Bank Muscat

Belgium set to foster trade ties with Oman in road safety software.”

Belgium is currently exporting around €160 million (OMR 67.2 million) and is importing around €85 million (OMR35.7 million) from Oman, the official said.

The year 2012 was a top year for bilateral trade as export and imports witnessed a significant increase, Castelein said, adding that the volume of trade dropped afterwards partly due to the global financial situation but is picking up again now.

Imports from Oman are growing and there are many opportunities for cooperation not only in exports and imports but also in the field of services, he noted.

The Port of Duqm Company, a joint venture between Oman government and Consortium Antwerp Port, is one of the joint ventures between the two countries

ELHAM POURMOHAMMADI

elham@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Economic relations between Oman and Belgium are growing and will become stronger if the huge potential for cooperation in various fields is utilised, said a Belgian official.

Countries in the Middle East, especially in the Gulf region, are important markets for Belgium, said Kris Castelein, counselor – investment and trade, the Embassy of Belgium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Belgium currently does not have an embassy in Oman.

Last year, a large delegation comprising around 300 members, led by Princess Astrid of Belgium, visited Oman on a trade mission which included the Omani-Belgian Businessmen Forum, Castelein told Times of Oman in an exclusive interview during his recent visit to Muscat.

A number of Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) were signed last year and now it is important to do follow-ups to remain visible and use the existing potential, the official noted.

CEMENTING TIES: Countries in the Middle East, especially in the Gulf region, are important markets for Belgium, said Kris Castelein, counselor – investment and trade, the Embassy of Belgium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. – ISMAIL AL FARSI/Times of Oman

300

members of a delegation, led by Princess Astrid of Belgium, visited Oman last year on a trade mission, which included the Omani-Belgian Businessmen Forum

Port of Duqm He said that the Port of Duqm Company, which is a joint venture between the government of Oman and Consortium Antwerp

Port (CAP) in Belgium, is one of most well-known joint ventures between the two countries.

There are other known Belgian-Omani joint ventures and Belgian companies that are active in Oman in various sectors, Castelein said. These include a company involved in inspection and auditing and Carmeuse Group, a global leader in lime and limerelated products, he noted.

Bilateral trade Phaeros, which is active in traffic management control in ports and related software, is working with the Port of Sohar, he said, adding, “Then we have the Oman National Transport Company which is working with a Belgian company

COST CUTTING

NEW STRATEGY: Chief executive officer Satya Nadella has said he’s narrowing the focus to personal computing, cloud platforms and business productivity. –Bloomberg News

Microsoft to lay off more workers as part of austerity STOCKHOLM: Microsoft plans to lay off more workers to cut costs amid waning demand for some devices and services, the New York Times reported, citing people briefed on the plan.

The cuts will be announced as early as Wednesday and are in addition to about 18,000 workers the software maker said it was dropping about a year ago, according to the newspaper, which didn’t identify the people briefed.

The cuts will affect workers in the hardware group among other parts of the company, it said.

The new reductions would come less than two weeks after the company exited the Web display advertising business. Chief execu-

tive officer Satya Nadella has said he’s narrowing the focus to personal computing, cloud platforms and business productivity. Since becoming CEO last year, Nadella has been paring the workforce, acquiring mobile and cloud software makers, and cutting units not central to his strategy.

Bing maps A Microsoft representative didn’t immediately have a comment when reached by this writer. Microsoft has gained less than 1 per cent in United States trading since announcing the last major round of job cuts a year ago.

The shares are down 4.6 per cent this year.

In German trading on Wednesday, they slipped about 1 per cent to the equivalent of $43.88 in Frankfurt.

Microsoft said June 30 that it’s selling part of the Bing maps unit to car-booking company Uber Technologies. Uber will offer jobs to about 100 Microsoft employees. AOL will hire about 1,200 workers when it takes over the Web ad business, the company said last month.

The Washington-based company is also stumbling in smartphones as it has failed to turn its operating system into a significant alternative to Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS, the New York Times reported. - Bloomberg News

Potential sectors Gas and oil are extremely important sectors and Belgium can offer expertise in the field of green technology as well now that Oman is focusing on economic diversification, said the official.

He said that Belgium is a ‘service-oriented’ economy as the country does not have many resources and is keen to work with the Sultanate in health and medical sector, education, university exchange programmes, Information and communications technology (ICT), banking services, telecommunications, consulting and other spheres.

The area of logistics is another strength of the country as seen in the Port of Antwerp in Belgium, one of the largest ports in Europe,Castelein said.

The port is known as a multi-industry hub where there is interconnectivity between airport, rail, inland waterway and road network.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Send us your comments at facebook.com/timesofoman blog.timesofoman.com haveyoursay@timesofoman.com

Muscat 22ct per gm (OMR) .......14.25 Dubai 24ct per gm (Dh) ............140.25 Dubai 22ct per gm (Dh) .............133.25 * Rates as of July 8 Source: Malabar Gold & Diamonds

JO B C R E AT I O N

Salalah Port helps local entrepreneurs to start small units Times News Service MUSCAT: As part of its robust Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, the Port of Salalah encourages the integration of local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) into the port.

Commenting on the Port of Salalah’s recent initiatives to support SMEs, Mohamed Qatan, owner of Global Coasts Shipping Company said, “I have decided to start my own shipping agency company here because the Port of Salalah receives more than 3,000 vessels per year, which means there is room for business for SMEs such as myself. Hence, I started my business and I am very pleased with the constant support from port management and all government authorities at the port.”

Another SME to benefit from the policy of encouraging SMEs in the Port of Salalah, Ahmed Al Mashikhi, owner of Arabian Silk Trading started his custom clearing office two years ago and today he has one of the leading custom clearance offices in Salalah. Therefore, he is encouraging new young Omanis to start their own business and benefit from this world class port.

Jafar AL Kathiri, owner of Amwaj Al Reeda Shipping agency started his business by importing fish from Yemen and then export to Europe from here. He provides transportation between Yemen and Oman, so he received a con-

I have decided to start my own shipping agency company here because the Port of Salalah receives more than 3,000 vessels per year, which means there is room for business for SMEs such as myself Mohamed Qatan

Owner, Global Coasts Shipping

tract with a large Yemeni businessman to move his cargo between Port of Salalah and Yemen via Al Mazyona Free Zone.

While speaking to local business leaders, the deputy chief exeuctive officer of the Port, Ahmed Akaak said, “We will continue to encourage the integration of SMEs into the Port of Salalah business community as we recognise the SMEs as an integral driver of economic growth and job opportunities for Omani citizens in Salalah.”

B2

THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

MARKET MSM closes in red zone

OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ........................................6,431.80 .............. 6,402.54 ...................6,402.65 ...................6,428.46................ -25.81 .................. -0.40 Financial Index ..................................... 7,794.10 ................7,729.17 .................... 7,729.17 ................... 7,784.85................-55.68 .................. -0.72 Industrial Index ................................... 8,300.05 ...............8,287.85 ...................8,288.68 ...................8,299.37................ -10.69 .................. -0.13 Services Index .......................................3,455.77 .............. 3,445.48 ....................3,455.01 ...................3,446.89.................... 8.12 ...................0.24 MSM SHARIAH INDEX....................... 988.11 .................. 986.17 .......................986.57 .......................988.11.................. -1.54 .................. -0.16 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 14,875,086 ................. 3,075,539 .....................553 ...............15,035,654,228 .................. 4 ......................16 ....................22 .........................42

Al Batinah Power, up by 2.48%, was the top gainer, while Ahli Bank, down by 6.51%, lost

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR WEDNESDAY, JULY 8

the most. Phoenix Power was the most active.

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: Block deal in Ahli Bank shares weighed on the MSM 30 Index, which closed at 6,402.65 points, down by 0.40 per cent. The MSM Sharia Index closed at 986.57 points, down by 0.16 per cent.

Phoenix Power remained the most active in terms of volume as well as turnover. Al Batinah Power, up by 2.48 per cent was the top gainer, while Ahli Bank, down by 6.51 per cent. was the top loser.

As many as 553 trades were executed during the session generating a turnover of OMR3 million with over 14.8 million shares changing hands. Out of 42 traded securities, four advanced, 16 declined and 22 remained unchanged. Omani investors were net buyers to the tune f OMR565,000 followed

by GCC and Arab investors at OMR148,000. Foreign investors, who were net sellers, sold shares amounting to OMR714,000.

Financial Index declined strongly by 0.72 per cent to end at 7,729.17 points. Al Sharqia Investments and Bank Sohar increased by 0.80 per cent and 0.53 per cent, respectively. Ahli Bank, Al Anwar Holding, Taageer Finance, Oman United Insurance and Oman & Emirates Holding declined by 6.51 per cent, 1.46 per cent, 1.35 per cent, 1.09 per cent and 0.83 per cent, respectively.

Industrial Index closed at 8,288.68 points, down by 0.13 per cent. Dhofar Cattlefeed, Al Anwar Ceramics and Al Maha Ceramics declinedby 3.31 per cent, 0.98 per cent and 0.36 per

cent, respectively.

Services Sector Index ended positively at 3,455.01 points, up by 0.24 per cent. Both Al Batinah Power and Al Suwadi Power gained 2.48 per cent, respectively.

Al Jazeera Services, Port Services, Phoenix Power, Omantel and OIFC declined by 1.09 per cent, 0.98 per cent, 0.65 per cent, 0.57 per cent and 0.48 per cent, respectively.

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

OM0000004925 ...........AL BATINAH POWER................................................ 241,707............ 49,959......................11 ........... 0.205 ...........0.207 ...........0.205........... 0.207 .............0.202 ........... 0.005............. 2.475 ................0.207..............0.207...................0.209 ................. 139,701,698 ........0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER .................................................. 350,625 ........... 72,590......................13 ........... 0.205 ...........0.209 ...........0.205........... 0.207 .............0.202 ........... 0.005............. 2.475 ................0.207..............0.207...................0.208 ................. 147,882,112 ........0.100 OM0000002440 ...........AL SHARQIA INVESTMENT HOLDING ........... 336,514............ 42,355......................13 ............0.126 ........... 0.127 ...........0.124........... 0.126 ............. 0.125.............0.001 .............0.800 ................0.124..............0.124...................0.125...................11,340,000 .........0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR................................................................ 833,201 ......... 159,097......................21 ............0.190 ........... 0.191............0.190............0.191 .............0.190 ............0.001 ............. 0.526 ................0.191 ..............0.190...................0.192..................275,315,040........0.100 OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN .................................................... 125,000 ............16,625........................2 ............0.133 ........... 0.133 ...........0.133 ............0.133 ............. 0.133............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.133 .............. 0.133...................0.135 ..................266,041,601........0.100 OM0000001533 ............OMINVEST ........................................................................ 4,623 ...............2,219........................1 ........... 0.480 ...........0.480 ...........0.480........... 0.480 .............0.480 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.480..............0.480...................0.490 .................177,800,304........0.100 OM0000001749 ............OMAN CEMENT .......................................................... 132,000 ............69,168........................4 ........... 0.524 ...........0.524 ...........0.524........... 0.524 .............0.524 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.524..............0.524...................0.550..................173,377,300 ........0.100 OM0000001962............AL MADINA INVESTMENT .......................................2,000 ...................148........................1 ........... 0.074 ........... 0.074 ...........0.074........... 0.075 .............0.075 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.074..............0.073...................0.074...................15,536,354 .........0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS ................4,000 .................. 936........................1 ........... 0.234 ...........0.234 ...........0.234........... 0.232 .............0.232 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.234..............0.234...................0.236....................4,872,000..........0.100 OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 441,996 .........248,527.....................44 ........... 0.562 ...........0.564 ...........0.562........... 0.562 .............0.562 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.562..............0.560...................0.562................1,288,004,300......0.100 OM0000003141 ............ACWA POWER BARKA ................................................. 5,534 ...............4,649........................2 ........... 0.840...........0.840 ...........0.840 .......... 0.840 .............0.840 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.840..............0.836...................0.000 ................ 134,400,000 .......0.100 OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES ..........................................1,938 ..................540........................2 ........... 0.278 ...........0.280 ...........0.278........... 0.279 .............0.279 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.280..............0.278...................0.280 ..................78,704,353 .........0.100 OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. .................. 116,888 .............14,699......................17 ............0.126 ........... 0.126 ...........0.125 ........... 0.126 .............0.126............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.125 .............. 0.125...................0.126...................36,537,560 .........0.100 OM0000003661 ............VOLTAMP ENERGY .....................................................66,058 ............ 28,537........................3 ........... 0.432 ...........0.432 ...........0.432........... 0.432 .............0.432 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.432..............0.432...................0.438...................26,136,000 .........0.100

Arabtec shares drop Arabtec’s stock fell after three top executives resigned following the departure of its chief executive officer 13 months ago in a management shakeup.

Shares of the United Arab Emirates’ biggest publicly-traded construction company closed at the lowest level in a month. The company accepted the resignation of Group chief financial officer Iyad Abdal Rahim, Group chief human resources and administration officer Yazan Hatamleh and Group general counsel Wassel Al Fakhoury, according to a statement to the Dubai bourse.

Their departures are part of the company’s reorganization plan to cut costs. Arabtec was at the heart of a selloff in June 2014 after CEO Hasan Ismaik resigned and a number of top managers were dismissed amid speculation that the construction company was losing government backing.

Arabtec’s stock declined 2.8 per cent to Dh2.48. Dubai’s DFM General Index dropped 1.4 per cent. Ravi Murthywas appointed acting group chief financial officer. – United Securities/Bloomberg news

OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO.........................................................................87,445 ............ 66,994......................11 ............0.764 ........... 0.768 ...........0.760............0.768 ............. 0.768............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.764 ..............0.764...................0.768..................499,925,169........0.100 OM0000004768 ...........AL MADINA TAKAFUL...............................................21,000 ...............1,848........................4 ........... 0.088 ...........0.088 ...........0.088........... 0.088 .............0.088 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.088..............0.088...................0.090 ..................15,400,000.........0.100 OM0000001822............UNITED POWER .............................................................2,450 ............... 3,810........................2 ............1.555 ........... 1.555............1.555 ............1.555 .............1.560............-0.005 ........... -0.321 ...............1.555 .............. 1.530...................1.555 .................... 3,110,000 ..........1.000 OM0000005005 ...........ALMAHA CERAMICS ..................................................38,297 .............21,068......................12 ........... 0.550 ........... 0.552 ...........0.548........... 0.550 .............0.552 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.362 ...............0.548..............0.550...................0.554...................28,875,000.........0.100 OM0000001509............DHOFAR INT.DEV.AND INV. HOLD......................13,000 ............... 6,110........................6 ........... 0.470 ...........0.470 ...........0.470........... 0.470 .............0.472 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.424 ...............0.470............. 0.000...................0.470..................115,808,000........0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 167,040............34,460......................18 ........... 0.206...........0.207 ...........0.206 .......... 0.206 .............0.207 ...........-0.001 ........... -0.483 ...............0.207............. 0.206...................0.210...................41,200,000.........0.100 OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION ........................ 146,900 .........254,102.....................40 ............1.740 ........... 1.740............1.725 ............1.730 ............. 1.740............-0.010 ........... -0.575 ...............1.730 .............. 1.725...................1.730 ................1,297,500,000 ......0.100 OM0000002366 ...........AL BATINAH DEV. INV. HOLDING ....................... 45,000 ...............5,435........................5 ............0.124 ........... 0.124 ...........0.120............0.121 .............0.122 ...........-0.001 ........... -0.820 ...............0.120..............0.122...................0.124....................3,630,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001681 ............OMAN AND EMIRATES INV. HOLDING............ 25,000 ...............3,000........................5 ............0.120 ........... 0.120 ...........0.120........... 0.120 ............. 0.121............-0.001 ........... -0.826 ...............0.120.............. 0.119...................0.120...................14,625,000 .........0.100 OM0000002168............AL ANWAR CERAMIC TILES ............................... 100,000 ...........40,600........................5 ........... 0.406 ...........0.406 ...........0.406........... 0.406 .............0.410............-0.004 ........... -0.976 ...............0.406..............0.404...................0.406 .................120,262,755 ........0.100 OM0000001145 ............PORT SERVICES CORPORATION .........................20,843 .............. 4,208........................5 ........... 0.203 ...........0.203 ...........0.200 .......... 0.202 .............0.204 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.980 ...............0.200 ............. 0.195...................0.200 .................. 19,198,080 .........0.100 OM0000002226 ...........AL JAZEERA SERVICES ........................................... 60,000 ............ 21,840........................1 ........... 0.364 ...........0.364 ...........0.364........... 0.364 .............0.368 ...........-0.004 ........... -1.087................0.364..............0.364...................0.368...................22,278,355.........0.100 OM0000001087............OMAN UNITED INSURANCE ................................ 50,000 .............13,600........................1 ........... 0.272 ...........0.272 ...........0.272........... 0.272 .............0.275 ...........-0.003 ............-1.091................0.272..............0.266...................0.280 ..................27,200,000.........0.100 OM0000003281............TAAGEER FINANCE ...................................................18,000 ...............2,628........................3 ............0.146 ........... 0.146 ...........0.146........... 0.146 .............0.148............-0.002 ............-1.351 ................0.146 .............. 0.145...................0.146...................37,024,140 .........0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 574,260 ..........116,754..................... 47 ........... 0.204...........0.206 ...........0.203........... 0.203 .............0.206 ...........-0.003 ............-1.456................0.206............. 0.204...................0.206 ..................30,465,225.........0.100 OM0000002200 ...........AHLI BANK .................................................................... 3,000,000 ..... 601,525........................4 ............0.212 ........... 0.212 ...........0.200 .......... 0.201 ............. 0.215............-0.014 ............-6.512................0.200 .............0.203...................0.215................. 286,432,265 .......0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 7,031,319 ....1,908,031...................304 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......30........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

OM0000001368 ............CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS IND. .......................7,999 ..................320........................1 ........... 0.040...........0.040 ...........0.040 .......... 0.040 .............0.040 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.040 .............0.039...................0.041....................3,400,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES .......................................................77,300 ...............4,167........................7 ........... 0.053 ...........0.054 ...........0.053........... 0.054 .............0.054 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.054..............0.053...................0.054 ...................6,750,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001608............OMAN PACKAGING ...................................................... 8,764 ...............2,051........................1 ........... 0.234 ...........0.234 ...........0.234........... 0.234 .............0.234 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.234............. 0.000...................0.000 ................... 7,589,991 ..........0.100 OM0000002564 ...........AL HASSAN ENGINEERING......................................... 900 .....................90........................1 ........... 0.100 ........... 0.100 ...........0.100........... 0.100 .............0.100 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.100..............0.098...................0.100....................7,520,800 ..........0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 147,600............ 10,922........................7 ........... 0.074 ........... 0.074 ...........0.074........... 0.074 .............0.074 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.074..............0.073...................0.074..................111,000,000 ........0.100 OM0000004511 ............ALIZZ ISLAMIC BANK................................................15,300 ................1,193........................3 ........... 0.078 ........... 0.078 ...........0.078........... 0.078 .............0.078 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.078..............0.076...................0.078...................78,000,000.........0.100 OM0000005963 ...........PHOENIX POWER ...................................................... 7,381,809 ....1,127,758...................221 ............0.154 ........... 0.155 ...........0.152 ............0.153 .............0.154............-0.001 ........... -0.649 ...............0.152 .............. 0.152...................0.153 ..................223,778,023........0.100 OM0000001301 ............DHOFAR CATTLE FEED ............................................10,562 ...............1,848........................1 ............0.175 ........... 0.175............0.175 ............0.175 ............. 0.181............-0.006 ............-3.315................0.175 .............. 0.172...................0.179 ...................13,475,000 .........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 7,650,234 ...1,148,350...................242 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ........ 8........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

OM0000004602 ...........BANK MUSCAT CONV. BONDS 4.5 ..............................289 .....................29........................1 ............0.102 ........... 0.102 ...........0.102........... 0.107 .............0.107............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.102..............0.102...................0.108...................32,394,155 .........0.100 OM0000004628 ...........BANK SOHAR BONDS 4.5 ............................................... 280 .....................25........................1 ........... 0.090 ...........0.090 ...........0.090........... 0.103 .............0.103............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.090..............0.070...................0.102....................7,364,500 ..........0.100 OM0000004867 ...........BANK MUSCAT C C B 4.5 .................................................289 .....................29........................1 ............0.102 ........... 0.102 ...........0.102........... 0.102 .............0.102 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.102..............0.102...................0.108...................32,603,553 .........0.100 OM0000005971 ............B.MUSCAT COMPL. CONVR. B.B.3.5 ................... 192,675.............19,075........................4 ........... 0.099 ...........0.099 ...........0.099........... 0.099 .............0.099 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.099..............0.099...................0.100...................32,092,000 ........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 193,533............. 19,159........................7 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ........4........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

INDIAN MARKETS

BANKING

Sensex slumps 1.72%; rupee slips MUMBAI: Indian markets witnessed a virtual carnage with a widespread sell-off to script its biggest fall in one-month spilled by a bubble burst of Chinese equities amid heightened fears over a petential Greek exit from eurozone.

The panic unwinding sent the benchmark Sensex tumbling by a whopping 484 points to finish at 27,687.72 while the broader Nifty tanked by 148 points to end at 8,363.05 points.

Already reeling under caution over upcoming corporate earnings season amid Greek turbulance, sentiment got further jittery as financial markets across Asia plunged reacting to Chinese stock rout following The selling was indiscriminate as all sectoral indices bore the brunt of the intense sell-off even as

mid-cap and small-cap crumbled.

After a gap-down opening, market remained under intense selling pressure throughout the day as the Sensex nosedived 536 points, though it witnessed some recovery towards the tail-end session.

The 30-share Sensex tumbled by 483.97, or 1.72 per cent to end at 27,687.72 after hitting an fresh intra-day low of 27,635.72. Similarly, the 50-share Nifty plummeted by 147.75 points, or 1.74 per cent to finish at 8,363.05.

Rupee falls Falling for the second day, the rupee depreciated by 14 paise to close at over one-week low of 63.60 against the Greenback on steady dollar demand from stateowned banks and importers.

A massive rout in financial mar-

kets and commodites worldwide jolted by Chinese stock bubble burst also weighed on the local currency, a forex dealer said. However, the greenback’s weakness trend against other Asian currencies limited the rupee slide.

In overseas trade, the dollar retreated from its one-month high, pressured by stronger yen as well as fresh hopes for a solution to Greece’s debt crisis. The domestic currency opened substantially lower at 63.55 per dollar compared to overnight closing level of 63.46 per dollar at the Interbank Foreign Exchange (forex) market on heavy dollar demand from banks and importers amid sharp fall in the domestic equity market.

It drifted further to hit a fresh intra-day low of 63.6450 before ending at 63.60. - PTI

Scandal-hit Barclays bank axes chief executive officer LONDON: Troubled British bank Barclays, plagued by forex and Libor rigging scandals, announced on Wednesday that it has fired chief executive Antony Jenkins with immediate effect.

Barclays management has “concluded that new leadership is required” to accelerate an overhaul of the beleaguered group, it revealed in a statement on the surprise decision. Jenkins has left the group with immediate effect, a spokesman said. Chairman John McFarlane has been appointed executive chairman until a successor to Jenkins is found.

“I reflected long and hard on the issue of group leadership and discussed this with each of the nonexecutive directors,” said deputy chairman Sir Michael Rake.

“Notwithstanding Antony’s significant achievements, it became clear to all of us that a new set of skills were required for the period ahead.” Jenkins replaced Bob Diamond in July 2012 — who himself was forced to resign after the damaging Libor rate-fixing scandal.

The retail banking veteran had vowed to bring a new culture of decency to Barclays, and oversaw drastic restructuring that shrank its investment bank. He leaves the bank with 12 months’ notice and will receive his current annual salary of £1.1 million ($1.7 million,

Antony Jenkins. – Reuters €1.5 million), as well as £950,000 in “role-based pay” and a pension of £363,000 a year.

Back in 2012, Barclays was fined £290 million by British and US regulators for attempted manipulation of Libor and Euribor interbank rates 2005 and 2009.

Damaged reputation Jenkins has however struggled to restore the group’s damaged reputation which was also tarnished by forex rigging. “In the summer of 2012, I became group chief executive at a particularly difficult time for Barclays,” Jenkins said

in Wednesday’s statement. “It is easy to forget just how bad things were three years ago both for our industry and even more so for us.”

He added: “I am very proud of the significant progress we have made since then. Our capital position is much stronger, our business model is more balanced, we are much more disciplined on cost management, we have made good progress in rebuilding our reputation and we are seen as a leader in the application of technology to our business.”

Under Jenkins, Barclays slashed more than 19,000 jobs, but the group has struggled to recover from the Libor fallout.

The Libor system — which has since been overhauled — was found to be open to abuse, with some traders lying about borrowing costs to boost trading positions or make their bank seem more secure. In another damaging blow, Barclays was slapped in May with a $2.4 billion fine by US and UK regulators for foreign exchange market manipulation.

Six major global banks, including Barclays and British peer Royal Bank of Scotland, were fined a total of almost $6 billion, mostly for rigging the foreign exchange market. Barclays’ fine was the highest because it had not participated in an earlier deal. - AFP

T H U R S DAY, JU LY 9, 2 0 1 5

B3

MARKET STOCK MARKET

China market turmoil reverberates across Asia TOKYO: Asian shares tumbled to a one-and-a-half-year year low on Wednesday and the safe-haven yen rallied as Chinese stocks struggled to pull out of a tailspin, shaking investors already rattled

by Greece’s debt crisis.

But European bourses were expected to gain as Greek tensions eased for now. Eurozone members gave Athens until the end of this week to propose reform measures in order to secure the funding it needs to stay in the eurozone.

Financial spreadbetters predicted Britain’s FTSE 100 would open up 0.7 per cent, Germany’s DAX was seen gaining 1.3 per cent, and France’s CAC 40 was expected to rise 1.5 per cent.

The drop in China extended a savage correction that has clipped 30 per cent off Chinese shares since mid-June, threatening a new

STOCKS ROUT: Over 500 China-listed firms announced trading halts on the Shanghai and Shenzhen exchanges on Wednesday, taking total suspensions to about 1,300. – Bloomberg News

blow to the country’s already slowing economy despite a slew of market support steps from Beijing.

Japan’s Nikkei MSCI’s broadest index of AsiaPacific shares outside Japan wallowed at its lowest level since February 2014, extending its early losses after Chinese shares opened sharply lower. It was last down 2.7 per cent.

Japan’s Nikkei stock index ended down 3.1 per cent, roiled by both China’s dent to regional sentiment and the stronger Japanese currency. “Today is all about China, with Greece in the background now that it’s been given a new deadline,” said Ayako Sera, senior market economist at Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank in Tokyo.

“Shanghai’s early losses were like a cliff-dive, which had a huge

impact on investor sentiment.”

Shanghai’s benchmark composite index was off its session lows but still down 5.1 per cent, while the CSI300 index of the largest listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen slipped 6 per cent.

Over 500 China-listed firms announced trading halts on the Shanghai and Shenzhen Exchange on Wednesday, taking total suspensions to about 1,300 — 45 per cent of the market — as companies seek shelter from the rout.

Depleted liquidity “I’ve never seen this kind of slump before. I don’t think anyone has.

Liquidity is totally depleted,” said Du Changchun, an analyst at Northeast Securities.

“Originally, many wanted to hold blue chips. But since so many small caps are suspended from

ECB to offer make-or-break rescue package for Greece ECB will decide

Euro will touch $1.05 to a dollar in three months, says expert

whether to keep $97.5b lifeline longer, potentially until Sunday when Greece has been ordered to agree rescue terms or face euro exit

FRANKFURT: The European Central Bank (ECB) was scheduled to hold what could be one of its last conference calls on Greek funding on Wednesday, as a weekend deadline approaches for a make-or-break decision on the country’s bailout.

With lenders shuttered, capital controls in place and no external aid programme, Emergency Liquidity Assistance (ELA) is the only thing preventing complete collapse of Greece’s financial system. The ECB’s 25-member Governing Council will decide in a conference call whether to keep the €88.6-billion ($97.5 billion) lifeline longer, potentially until Sunday when Greece has been ordered to agree rescue conditions or face euro exit.

The ECB has kept Greek lenders on tightly controlled aid since February as their collateral values worsen amid the political uncertainty generated by the election of the anti-austerity Syriza party.

Without a bailout agreement with creditors, which would also unlock fresh central-bank cash, the banking system can’t remain viable.

HONG KONG: The euro will fall about 5 per cent against the dollar in the next three months amid political turmoil in Europe and a likely United States interest-rate increase, said Kahay Yip, a former SAC Capital Advisors manager now running his own macro hedge fund.

Yip predicts the common currency will depreciate to $1.05, from almost $1.10 in Asian trading Wednesday.

His Hong Kong-based Bright Stream Capital Management, which oversees a $33 million hedge fund, is holding onto bets against the euro versus both the yen and the greenback.

Ousting Greece would show the euro to be no more than a pegged currency in disguise and weaken its status as an international reserve currency, Yip said in an interview last month. The shared currency has dropped more than 1 percent since July

“The banks will run out of liquidity by the end of the week, even with tough deposit and capital controls in place,” ABN Amro Bank economists Nick Kounis and Georgette Boele said in a note.

There are “big question marks over whether Greece and creditors will reach an agreement.”

Exit scenario The ECB will also have to judge whether Greek banks might actually need more ELA, in order to ensure they can maintain even limited operations until Sunday.

strength of the US economy and is on track to hike in September regardless of the turmoil in Europe.”

3 and the benchmark Stoxx Europe 600 Index has declined 2.8 per cent. Morgan Stanley economists put the odds of Greece’s ouster from the euro area at 75 per cent.

“The market is not really

Policymakers might consider issuing a statement giving Greece a hard deadline to reach a political deal or face ELA being withdrawn, a strategy they used with Cyprus in 2013.

The Greek government has been told to submit fresh reform proposals that could form the basis for a third European Union-led bailout. European leaders said late on Tuesday that a summit to be held on Sunday will be the last opportunity for them to agree a rescue, otherwise they’ll prepare to throw the country out of the euro.

pricing in a messy Grexit,” said Yip in an interview this week, using the shorthand for Greece’s expulsion from the now 19-nation currency area. “The Federal Reserve is still focusing on the domestic

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she is “not especially optimistic” and European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker said a scenario for a Greek exit has been readied “in detail.”

The finality at the political level may be matched on the Governing Council, which includes the heads of the euro’s 19 central banks and the six members of the ECB’s executive board.

On Monday, officials stepped up measures to protect their balance sheet by raising the discounts on the collateral that

Equity markets European leaders would be wary that a softening stance on Greece would embolden anti-austerity sentiment in other peripheral countries going through tough reforms, he added.

“Regardless of when and if a deal will come through, the process will take time and uncertainty will weigh on the credit and equity markets” as investors exercise caution, Yip said.

The euro has dropped 2.7 per cent against the greenback in the past month and more than 4.6 per cent against the yen.

Yip was the first Asia-based manager hired by billionaire Steven A. Cohen’s SAC in 2007. - Bloomberg News

Greek lenders post in return for ELA, even though it makes accessing the funding harder.

If “there is no more political accord in sight for a program, then our rules force us to stop completely,” European Central Bank governing council member Christian Noyer said. - Bloomberg News

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Send us your comments at facebook.com/timesofoman blog.timesofoman.com haveyoursay@timesofoman.com

trading, the only way to reduce risk exposure is to sell blue chips.”

United States stock futures were down 0.7 perc ent, suggesting that some of the gloomy mood might continue throughout the global session even after Wall Street’s major indexes closed higher on Tuesday.

Though the Greek debt crisis was on the back burner, it continued to smoulder. Investors fear that failure to reach a deal with Greece’s lenders could cause wider disruption across other southern European nations.

These concerns grew when the European Central Bank increased the haircuts on the collateral it demands from Greek banks even as it maintained its emergency liquidity funding for them. The euro was down slightly on the day at $1.1008. - Reuters ENERGY

Crude extends drop from a three-month low MELBOURNE: Oil extended its slide from a three-month low as investors eschewed risky assets amid speculation China’s efforts to stem an equity rout are failing.

Futures fell as much as 1.7 per cent in New York for a fifth day of declines, the longest losing streak since May. The Shanghai Composite Index plunged as traders unwind margin bets at a record pace amid a slump that’s wiped more than $3.5 trillion of value. Diplomats in Vienna extended a deadline for a nuclear deal with Iran until July 10.

Oil has given up this year’s gains as investors avoided risky assets amid concern over economic stability in Asia and Europe. Iran, the fourth-largest producer in the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec), plans to boost crude exports and recapture market share when sanctions are lifted.

China markets “Prices are getting hit from all angles, we see very little optimism in the oil-futures market,” Gordon Kwan, the Hong Kong-based head of regional oil and gas research at Nomura, said. “It will persist for at least the next two weeks until we see a visible return of confidence in China’s financial markets.”

West Texas Intermediate for August delivery decreased as much as 87 cents to $51.46 a barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange and was at $51.61 in Singapore.

The contract dropped 20 cents to $52.33 on Tuesday, the lowest close since April 13. Prices are down 3.1 per cent this year.

Brent for August settlement slid as much as 85 cents, or 1.5 per cent, to $56 a barrel on the Londonbased ICE Futures Europe exchange. The European benchmark crude traded at a premium of $4.54 to WTI. - Bloomberg News

B4

THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

FEATURE

AS GRADUATION SEASON GETS UNDERWAY, BLOOMBERG ASKED ECONOMISTS WHAT CAREER ADVICE THEY COULD OFFER TO THE NEWEST PACK OF MILLENNIALS JOINING THE WORKFORCE

M

illennials, America’s favourite generation to hate, have racked up a lot of problems since the last recession.

They’ve tallied obscene amounts of student debt. Rents are soaring.

They’re short on cash to buy homes.

And a fast-changing job market has them rethinking how to earn their pay. As graduation season gets underway, Bloomberg asked economists what career advice they could offer to the newest pack of millennials joining the workforce. Here’s what they had to say.

April 2010, the gauge is now almost half the level of that postwar high.

1. Be grateful you’re graduating now.

The economy last year added jobs at the fastest pace since 1999. Those employment gains are making room for many of our youngest and least experienced members of the workforce, who were often the first to get cut in the recession and the last to get hired in the economic recovery.

“2015 college grads are entering the best job market in about a decade,” said Nariman Behravesh, chief economist at IHS Inc. in Lexington, Massachusetts. “Jobs growth is strong and competition for many positions is less intense.”

After spiking to 17.2 per cent in

3. Don’t be a lifer. No matter what your parents tell you, job-hopping in your early years after graduation is completely normal.

“You will likely work for many employers over your career,” said Diane Swonk, chief economist at Mesirow Financial Holdings in Chicago. “It’s a fine line to walk between being loyal and reliable and still learning enough to continue growing.”

There’s actually a slight pay advantage to switching employers early on, according to research that followed the careers of young men.

2. Pack up and move. “Applicants who are willing to move to opportunities are going to have much more luck in this environment,” said Mike Fratantoni, chief economist at the Mortgage Bankers Association in Washington. If other strong preferences aren’t holding you back, perhaps another look at some of the states with the lowest joblessness (Hello, North Dakota!) will have you loading up the U-Haul:

4. Go to grad school (if you can af-

ford it). If you can scrape together the cash, or are willing to rack up the debt, another degree might prove to be one of the best investments you can make.

“Graduate school has become more of a must than an option for those looking for a career instead of just a job,” said Swonk.

Workers with advanced degrees tend to get paid a lot more than those with only a college education.

5. Learn to code. “Become comfortable working with machines and with business partners remote and local,” said Dana Saporta, director of US economics research at Credit Suisse Securities in New York. “If you haven’t done so already, study at least the basics of computer programming.”

Beyond those basics, getting friendlier with computers certainly has a financial upside. Computer and information research scientists enjoyed median annual pay of $102,190 in 2012, compared with $34,750 for all workers that year, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The BLS estimates that these jobs will grow by 15 per cent between 2012 and 2022. Other technical positions face similarly favorable outlooks.

6. And keep learning after that. “Stay flexible, and be willing to make learning a lifetime pursuit,” Saporta said.

Employers have gotten stingier in the past few years about offering financial assistance to their workers taking on more schooling, yet there’s still about a 50-50 chance your company will help you in these pursuits, according to 2014 survey data from the Society for Human Resource Management. If your workplace is in the less generous half, you could always learn for free.

7. Don’t do the boring stuff. It’s not just that these jobs will crush your soul. The nature of this kind of work (characterised by the same well- defined procedures, without much variability) means that robots will soon be able to perform them faster and better and cheaper than you, if they can’t already.

Those jobs have already been on the decline: 8. Remember that practicality pays.

“In some fields, such as science, technology, engineering and math, there is a skills shortage,” said Behravesh. “This means that starting salaries can be two to three times

higher than in other fields.”

9. Those with college degrees in “STEM” fields — science, technology, engineering or mathematics — raked in the highest earnings in their first job out of school, according to 2009-13 Census Bureau data compiled by Georgetown University:9. Jobs that require “high emotional intelligence, interpersonal skills, motivation, nurturing or artistic talent” are among those least likely to be replicated by machines, he said. Aspiring nurses and teachers, rejoice.

10. Don’t be above slumming it. As internships proliferate as a lowrisk way for employers to test-drive candidates, fewer of the traditional, more secure “entry-level” jobs are available, said Ethan Harris, cohead of global economics research at Bank of America Corp. in New York. “ “The hope is that as the labor market improves, the market moves back into balance with more paid entry-level jobs.” Those making their first foray into the labor force also might find the paycheck isn’t as generous as it used to be.

— Washington Post-Bloomberg News

T H U R S DAY, JU LY 9, 2 0 1 5 SCAN THIS TO INSTANTLY LAUNCH FACEBOOK PAGE

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ROUND-UP

Ooredoo Goodwill Journey concludes on a positive note of products made by members of the organisation. Volunteers also distributed funds to support long term education, skills training programmes, and develop a culture of sustainability.

Volunteers from the Ooredoo family dedicated their effort and time to bring the journey to yet another successful conclusion and bring smiles to the faces of those in need

MUSCAT: Marking the conclusion of the 11th annual Goodwill Journey, Ooredoo’s ambassadors returned to Muscat after travelling more than 4,000 kilometres on a voyage of compassion across the Sultanate.

Brought to an end at Ooredoo headquarters in Muscat Grand Mall, the journey wrapped up when the 23 Ooredoo family volunteers were welcomed home at a special ceremony held under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Kamil bin Fahad Al Said, the Assistant Secretary General of the Deputy Prime Minster Office for Cabinet Affairs, says a press release.

Divided into two parts, the 11th Goodwill Journey travelled to 10 cities across the northern, interior, eastern and southern governorates of Oman, organising skills development initiatives and pro-

viding necessary learning tools as well as donations that will sustain community programmes for years to come.

Ooredoo’s aim is to spur human growth and empower women and communities to do better and to make a real difference to peoples’ lives. Volunteers from the Ooredoo family dedicated their effort and time to bring the journey to yet another successful conclusion and bring smiles to the faces of those in need.

The second leg of the Ooredoo Goodwill Journey which started from Muscat, saw the volunteers

S O C I A L G AT H E R I N G

driving south, stopping in Quriyat, Masirah Island, and Duqm before reaching Sadah in the Governorate of Dhofar. Ooredoo ambassadors distributed gifts to local children, provided funding and supported to the Omani Women’s Associations and brought the joys of Qaranqasho to the children for the very first time.

During their visit to Sadah, Ooredoo’s family volunteers were welcomed by members of the Omani Women’s Associations who held a variety of activities to commemorate the 11th Goodwill Journey, including a showcase

Ooredoo Goodwill Building on the learning from the past 10 years, Ooredoo designed this year’s Goodwill Journey to leave a long-term impact and feed into their new CSR platform which will come to be known as Ooredoo Goodwill.

Focusing on women, entrepreneurial skills-development, Islamic culture and supporting families and communities across Oman, Oordeoo Goodwill is a programme that will extend beyond the holy month of Ramadan.

Giving up precious time with their families, Ooredoo’s fasting volunteers have been able to touch the lives of many people across Oman this year, spreading the message of mercy on a journey that covered thousands of kilometres and took them through every region of Oman.

N O N - S T O P E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Qaranqasho celebrated at The Walk MUSCAT: Capturing the spirit of Ramadan and the imagination of children, The Wave, Muscat’s fun-filled Qaranqasho at The Walk was a great success, attracting over 4,000 residents, guests and visitors.

The non-stop entertainment included live stage shows with a Tanura dancer, unicyclist, juggler and bubble artist, Omani folklore band and included photo booths and candy stations stocked with goodie bags as well as fun and games for the children. Bank Muscat, Honda and Hi and Hala FM were the official partners of the event, says a press release.

D O S S I E R C O N S T RU C T I O N AWA R D S & S U M M I T 2 0 1 5

NBO hosts a series of Iftars MUSCAT: Members of National Bank of Oman’s senior management team will be hosting Iftars throughout the holy month of Ramadan with government officials, corporate clients, and Sadara private banking clients.

The series of events across the Sultanate kicked-off at Al Majan Hall in Sohar and at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Muscat recently, says a press release.

John Chang, general manager and chief retail banking officer at National Bank of Oman, said: “We are strongly committed to delivering a consistently superior banking experience to our customers and to offer even more innovative products and services. This series of Iftars brings us closer to our valued customers and helps us to identify new areas where National Bank of Oman can make their banking experience even more seamless and pleasant.”

National Bank of Oman launched its Sadara wealth man-

B5

agement proposition for highnet-worth clients in 2009 with products designed to give customers the very best possible banking experience. Sadara customers enjoy a comprehensive suite of tailor-made products and services, preferential rates and fees on products, personalised real estate financing, industry-leading financial advice, and special privileges and benefits including a dedicated personal relationship manager

and wealth advisor to help them decide how to take their finances to the next level.

They also enjoy exclusive access to 13 dedicated Sadara centres across the Sultanate for quick and comfortable service, as well as reserved parking at all National Bank of Oman branches, access to 500 airport lounges across the world through either their debit or credit card, and airport pick-up and drop-off.

Leading contracting companies extend support to Dossier summit MUSCAT: More leading contracting companies in Oman have extended support to Dossier Construction Awards & Summit 2015 as excitement builds up for this event. Larsen & Toubro (Oman) (L&T Oman), one of the top construction companies in Oman, is the latest to come on board as a silver sponsor.

Another leading player from the contracting sector Hasan Juma Backer Trading & Contracting Company and Urich Switchgear Manufacturing have also associated with the event as silver sponsors. Doka is the platinum sponsor and MercedesBenz is the gold sponsor, says a press release.

Dossier Construction Awards & Summit 2015 launched under the banner of Dossier Construction magazine-Oman’s first and only B2B magazine published

by United Media Services will be held on September 9 at the

InterContinental Muscat. Targeted at the construction, infrastructure and real estate industries in Oman, the event will highlight industry performers, best practices, and technologies and felicitate excellence at an awards ceremony and facilitate the exchange of knowledge through a summit.

The prestigious event is held under the auspices of Ministry of Transport and Communications and Public Authority for Electricity and Water and endorsed by Muscat Municipality, Omran, Duqm Special Economic Zone Authority and Oman Rail.

The event is being organised in association with leading consultants Atkins, Renardet and KEO. Oman Society of Contractors (OSC) is the support partner. Advantage Austria is the supporting organisation. Sharq Sohar Group, Athaiba Furniture Factory, Oman Cables Industry,

BEC Group, Voltamp Energy, Bahwan Engg Co (BEC)-Carrier, NBO and Taylor Woodrow Oman are the silver sponsors. Falcon Insurance Company, Shamel International and Al Hassan Group are support partners. Times of Oman and Al Shabiba are the media partners, KPMG is the validation partner and RMP is the printing partner.

Dossier Construction Awards & Summit 2015 will be attended by the key ministers and senior officials in the government, senior-to-mid level executives from the public and private sectors, and leaders of relevant industry bodies. The summit will feature impactful and compelling sessions from senior-level international and local leaders of consulting and construction companies who bring to the forefront new insights on the business opportunities in the construction sector in the country.

ACCOLADE

Lexus NX F Sport bags 1st place in Motor Trend compact crossover comparison MUSCAT: Lexus’ new segment shaker – the bold and aggressive NX F Sport – is going all out to display its might. Recently the NX F Sport took the first place in a Motor Trend compact crossover comparison against formidable rivals from Germany, Sweden, USA and the UK. Having pioneered the luxuryutility crossover category more than a decade ago with the original midsized RX300, Lexus is now poised to disrupt the SUV segment once again with the all-new NX. The turbocharged NX combines the expertise of racers within the engineering team and the impeccable touch of Lexus luxury through an exciting and sporty design to set a new benchmark in the automotive world, says a press release.

For its first-ever turbocharged gasoline engine, Lexus created all-new engine architecture. The 2.0-litre, four-cylinder port and direct-injection turbo engine uses an advanced valve control system to switch between Atkinson cycle and Otto cycle operation to optimise performance.

The NX with all-weather drive introduces Dynamic Torque Control AWD to provide maximum traction and cornering stability.

The system continuously controls torque transfer between the front and rear wheels, using sensors for vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, throttle angle and yaw rate.

The NX’s array of technology innovations sets new standards for future Lexus models. It features the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI) with a touch pad. A highly visible and easy-to-understand navigation screen enables users to con-

firm a range of information at a glance. The NX is the first Lexus to offer a Qi Wireless Charging Tray inside the console box: just placing a compatible smartphone or tablet in the tray will recharge its battery.

The look and feel of Lexus luxury detail begins before you enter the NX. A single LED elegantly streams a welcoming beam of light along the top of the handle and also to the ground as the driver approaches the vehicle. The cabin design combines structural elements with luxurious yet functional materials and textures. A neat-looking switch layout and aesthetic surfaces epitomise the NX’s interior concept - “traditional luxury accentuated by simple functional beauty”.

The Lexus NX comes with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. The Panoramic View Monitor, introduced into a Lexus vehicle for the first time, helps the driver avoid other vehicles and pedestrians approaching from the sides. Frontal and side collision protection

measures on the NX include the use of high tensile steel, across the centre-pillar hinge reinforcement, outer rockers and roof cross-members. The NX has 12 SRS airbags, including a dual stage driver’s airbag and knee airbag, dual-stage and dual-chamber front passenger airbag, front side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags, rear side airbags and offers the Lexus Pre-Collision Safety System (PCS) which uses the allspeed Adaptive Cruise Control system’s millimetre-wavelength radar sensor to detect vehicles and other obstacles.

The F Sport variant promises a special driving experience with its aggressive looks such as a grille that’s even bolder than on the standard model. The L-mesh black grille integrates with a metallic coated lower bumper moulding, and black side mirrors match the grille. Exclusive wheels, cabin styling and trim and bolstered sports seats add to the F Sport repertoire in the NX. From the very beginning Lexus

was conceived to set new standards within the automotive world and this pursuit continues today.

In a relatively short period of time, Lexus has established a unique place in the automotive world as a manufacturer of premium vehicles that distil breathtaking design, advanced technology, heart-stopping performance, environmental sensitivity and refined levels of luxury into one distinctive package.

Lexus is constantly looking to the future, driven by innovation.

The process to create a Lexus vehicle is unique within the automotive industry. Taking inspiration from fields as diverse as the fashion industry, architecture, the arts and medicine, each vehicle is painstakingly crafted to meet Lexus’ exacting standards.

In Oman every Lexus vehicle comes with special benefits and privileges such as 6 years unlimited extended mileage protection and Lexus Prestige Club Card that offers 24 hours on-road assistance from AAA.

‘COLOURS IN HARMONY’ HELPS AL NOOR ASSOCIATION

Members of the organising committee of the Pakistani contemporary art exhibition, ‘Colours in Harmony’, along with a representative from Omani Society for Fine Arts, presented a cheque of OMR4,613 to the representative of the Al Noor Association for the Blind, an organisation that works with individuals suffering from visual impairment — Supplied photo

ACADEMIC TIES

MEC students visit Korean varsity MUSCAT: A delegation of 20 students from Middle East College (MEC) is on a visit to Hanyang University, Korea.

They will be attending a 25-day scholarship programme involving almost 700 students from different international universities and colleges from July 1 to 30 as part of a summer school programme organised by the university, says a press release.

The programme offers a widerange of courses: Korean studies, humanities studies, international relations, media and communication, design, science, engineering and Korean Language.

This is also part of the international student exchange programmes signed by the college with a number of colleges and

universities worldwide.

Earlier the Korean delegation had visited the Sultanate from January 26 to February 19 in an educational and entertaining programme prepared by the Placement and Industrial Relation Office at Middle East College.

B6

THU RSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

ROUND-UP Nissan Sentra comes with upbeat performance, unlimited benefits The Nissan Sentra offers drivers the spaciousness and comfort of cars usually found in the larger segment, as well as technology usually associated with much more expensive cars MUSCAT: After gaining rave reviews from auto enthusiasts, the Sentra now comes in a new 1.6 SV CVT P26 from the house of Suhail Bahwan Automobiles which is set to create another milestone.

The new Sentra boasts of top of the range options that focuses on class-above design standards inside and out. Loaded with full options, the Sentra 1.6 SV is an edge over competitors in its segment making it an enticing option for patrons, says a press release.

The presence of the Nissan Sentra vehicles on the road is aptly supported by Nissan Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world-class service facilities and trained manpower. The Nissan Sentra offers drivers the spaciousness and comfort of cars usually found in the larger segment, as well as technology usually associated with much more expensive cars. Apart from Nissan Sentra 1.6 and 1.8L engine options, the Sentra 1.6 SV has an engine capacity of 113hp, Dimensions (LxWxH) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4615 x 1760 x 1495mm and Xtronic CVT Transmission.

Ramadan beneďŹ ts Scratch & Win (two assured gifts): Customers buying the Nissan Sen-

tra will receive a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Scratch & Winâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; card which will entitle them to two assured gifts comprising free service up to lifetime of the car (minimum assured one year/10,000km PMS) and free fuel up to OMR1,000 (minimum assured of OMR50) Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; -"Ĺ&#x2014; # .-Ä&#x2020;Ĺ&#x2014; /-.)' ,-Ĺ&#x2014;1#&&Ĺ&#x2014; &-)Ĺ&#x2014; walk away with assured cash gifts of OMR500 on any Sentra variants. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; (&#'#. Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ă°.-Ä&#x2020;Ĺ&#x2014; #-- (Ĺ&#x2014; assures customers free registration, six yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; extended warran.3Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; -3Ĺ&#x2014; Ă°( ( #(!Ĺ&#x2014; )*.#)(-Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; &) (Ĺ&#x2014; term up to eight years and attractive interest rates. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; #.#)( &Ĺ&#x2014; ' (Ĺ&#x2014;"#!"&#!".Ĺ&#x2014; of 2015: This year Nissan has introduced another exciting line up ) Ĺ&#x2014; ' (Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ă°.Ĺ&#x2014; ),Ĺ&#x2014; ." #,Ĺ&#x2014; 0 &ued customers. Customers who already own a Nissan model and are making a second purchase will receive additional incentives from SBA where customers enjoy 10,000km additional service, they will receive special interest privilege card and also be eligible for

R A M A D A N I N I T I AT I V E

#(Ä&#x161;")/- Ĺ&#x2014; /.)Ĺ&#x2014;Ă°( ( Ĺ&#x2014;. 'Ä&#x201E; (3Ĺ&#x2014;., Ä&#x161;#(Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ă°.-Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; * # &Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; , . Ä&#x2020;Ĺ&#x2014; /-.)' ,-Ĺ&#x2014; (Ĺ&#x2014; 0 #&Ĺ&#x2014;-* # &Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;, . Ĺ&#x2014;-. ,.#(!Ĺ&#x2014; Best in-class fuel efficiency from OMR96 on the Nissan Sentra. From the Sentraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 130-hp, 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder engine with advanced valve timing to its next-generation Grand raffle The grand raffle draw from Nissan Xtronic CVT transmission, Sentra is being held in association with is a technical tour de force aimed at Al Wisal and Merge FM where providing the best of both worlds â&#x20AC;&#x201C; participants can enter the draw to efficiency and performance. The win a sleek Nissan Altima (2 ve- result - Best-in-class fuel econo"# & -Ĺ&#x2014; .)Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; 1)(ĢÄ&#x2021;Ĺ&#x2014; $/-.Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2020; - my that sets the standard â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and if Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2021;Ĺ&#x2014; .)Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x192;úÞÞÄ&#x201A;Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2014; " Ĺ&#x2014; youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re wondering how it handles lucky winner can walk away with a on the road, one smile-inducing test drive is all youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need. brand new Nissan Altima.

Easy ďŹ nancing options SBA designed the Ramadan scheme to add to the pleasure and convenience of owning a Nissan model and ensure hassle and worry-free driving at all times. Nissan /-.)' ,-Ĺ&#x2014; (Ĺ&#x2014; &-)Ĺ&#x2014; 0 #&Ĺ&#x2014; -3Ĺ&#x2014; Ă°nancing option of a loan term up to eight years with attractive interest rates from Bank Muscat. Flexible Ä&#x201C;-Ĺ&#x2014; (Ĺ&#x2014; &-)Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; . #&),Ĺ&#x2014; ' Ĺ&#x2014; ),Ĺ&#x2014; any individual requirement from

Moving with conďŹ dence Sentra offers a holistic approach to safety and security; agility combined with advanced technology can help the driver easily avoid a situation. And if an accident does occur, an advanced airbag system combined with zone body construction, helps reduce injury.

A. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - The standard ABS pumps the brakes faster than you possibly

can in panic-braking situations, to help prevent wheel lockup and allow you to maintain steering control around obstacles, while braking heavily. Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2014; & .,)(# Ĺ&#x2014; , % ), Ĺ&#x2014; #-.,# /.#)(Ĺ&#x2014; ÄĄ ĢĹ&#x2014; Ä&#x153;Ĺ&#x2014; -#!( Ĺ&#x2014; .)Ĺ&#x2014; - ( Ĺ&#x2014; extra force to the rear brakes when thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s additional weight in the back. Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2014; '') #&#- ,Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x153;Ĺ&#x2014; -.Ĺ&#x2014; -3Ĺ&#x2014; %()1#(!Ĺ&#x2014; ." Ĺ&#x2014; '') #&#- ,Ĺ&#x2014; -3-. 'Ĺ&#x2014; only allows ignition with a particular code key. Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2014; )( Ĺ&#x2014; ) 3Ĺ&#x2014; )( *.Ĺ&#x2014;Ä&#x153;Ĺ&#x2014; ),& Ä&#x161; class safety, thanks to a super strong chassis structure, reduces shock impact and protects passengers. Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2014; , % Ĺ&#x2014; --#-.Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x161;Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; 3)/Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; .)Ĺ&#x2014; slam on the brakes, Brake Assist detects how hard youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re braking, and if it senses you are in an emergency, it will automatically help to apply maximum braking force. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nissan is committed to safety and innovation, and Nissan is *,)/ Ĺ&#x2014; .)Ĺ&#x2014; "# 0 Ĺ&#x2014; ." Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; )*Ĺ&#x2014; Safety Pick rating for the 2015 Sentra,â&#x20AC;? said a senior SBA official. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As a compact sedan, Sentra is a critically important vehicle in Nissanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lineup and with its standard safety features weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re bringing a high level of safety and security to a growing consumer segment.â&#x20AC;?

Safety and security features standard on all 2015 Sentraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and ) /* (.Ĺ&#x2014; & --#Ă° .#)(Ĺ&#x2014; - (-),-Ä&#x2021;Ĺ&#x2014;

front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection; three-point front and rear seatbelts, front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters and adjustable upper anchors; and LATCH System.

Interior technology /-"Ĺ&#x2014; /..)(Ĺ&#x2014; !(#.#)(Ĺ&#x2014;Ä&#x161;Ĺ&#x2014; " Ĺ&#x2014; (!#( Ĺ&#x2014; activates just by turning the ignition knob (or pressing the engine start switch), without taking the key out and inserting it. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; ) %)/.Ĺ&#x2014; ,). .#)(Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x161;Ĺ&#x2014; (Ĺ&#x2014; ),der to avoid a key being shut up inside the vehicle cabin or trunk, the technology detects the status of the door lock and whether the key is inside the vehicle, it alerts drivers via a buzzer and simultaneously automatically unlocks the door or opens the trunk.

Nissanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Intelligent Key Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; "#-Ĺ&#x2014; . "()&)!3Ĺ&#x2014; &&)1-Ĺ&#x2014; )1( ,-Ĺ&#x2014; to lock and unlock the door just by pressing the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Request Switchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on the door while just simply carrying the key. Drivers can also open and close the trunk, and can start the engine without having to insert the key, making departure seamless.

SBA is largely committed to supporting Nissanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth in the Sultanate through major emphasis on customer satisfaction and by providing world-class after-sales services in Oman.

DEVELOPING WORK SKILLS

Summer training programme begins at SA

Malabar Gold sets up Iftar tent in Ruwi MUSCAT:Ĺ&#x2014; & ,Ĺ&#x2014; )& Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x2039;Ĺ&#x2014; # monds, the leading jewellery retailer, strengthens its CSR activi.# -Ĺ&#x2014;#(Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;Ä&#x2039;Ĺ&#x2014; ,Ĺ&#x2014; -.Ĺ&#x2014;, !#)(Ĺ&#x2014; this Ramadan, embracing the spirit of giving.

The group has set up a tempo, ,3Ĺ&#x2014; . ,Ĺ&#x2014; . (.Ĺ&#x2014; ,)'Ĺ&#x2014; /&3Ĺ&#x2014; ĂżĹ&#x2014; #(Ĺ&#x2014; ." Ĺ&#x2014; parking area near Shah Nagar Das outlet opposite to ONTC Bus Stand, Ruwi and about 4,550 resi (.-Ĺ&#x2014; 1#&&Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ă°.Ĺ&#x2014; ,)'Ĺ&#x2014; ." Ĺ&#x2014; - ' Ĺ&#x2014; till the end of Ramadan, says a press release. (Ĺ&#x2014; ' (Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; ." 3Ĺ&#x2014; , Ĺ&#x2014; *& ((#(!Ĺ&#x2014; .)Ĺ&#x2014; *,)0# Ĺ&#x2014;)0 ,Ĺ&#x2014;ÝúÄ&#x2026;úúúĹ&#x2014; . ,Ĺ&#x2014;' &-Ĺ&#x2014; .Ĺ&#x2014; different areas such as Ruwi, Muttrah, Sohar and Salalah throughout Ramadan. " Ĺ&#x2014; $ 1 && ,3Ĺ&#x2014; !,)/*Ĺ&#x2014; ")-.-Ĺ&#x2014; . ,Ĺ&#x2014; 0 (.-Ĺ&#x2014;#(Ĺ&#x2014;0 ,#)/-Ĺ&#x2014;* ,.-Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; 3Ĺ&#x2014; organising a month long calendar of activities, in association with like-minded organisations. Over ÿúÄ&#x2026;úúúĹ&#x2014; , -# (.-Ĺ&#x2014; #(Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; 1#&&Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ă°.. Ĺ&#x2014; 3Ĺ&#x2014;." #,Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;#(#.# .#0 -Ĺ&#x2014;

this Ramadan. " Ĺ&#x2014; $ 1 && ,3Ĺ&#x2014; !,)/*Ĺ&#x2014; ")-.-Ĺ&#x2014; . ,Ĺ&#x2014; 0 (.-Ĺ&#x2014;#(Ĺ&#x2014;0 ,#)/-Ĺ&#x2014;* ,.-Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; ,Ĺ&#x2014; -.Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; 3Ĺ&#x2014; ),! (#-#(!Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; ')(."Ĺ&#x2014; long activities, in association with like-minded organisations. Over Ä&#x192;ĂşÄ&#x2026;úúúĹ&#x2014; , -# (.-Ĺ&#x2014; #(Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; ,Ĺ&#x2014; -.Ĺ&#x2014; 1#&&Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ă°.. Ĺ&#x2014; 3Ĺ&#x2014; ." #,Ĺ&#x2014; CSR initiatives this Ramadan.

Since its inception in 1993, Ma& ,Ĺ&#x2014; ,)/*Ĺ&#x2014; " -Ĺ&#x2014; (Ĺ&#x2014; .#0 &3Ĺ&#x2014; #(volved in CSR activities with the aim of creating a difference to the community in and around their area of operations.

The importance of CSR activi.# -Ĺ&#x2014; ),Ĺ&#x2014; & ,Ĺ&#x2014; ,)/*Ĺ&#x2014;" -Ĺ&#x2014;!,)1(Ĺ&#x2014; over the decades and the group sets aside a certain percentage ) Ĺ&#x2014; #.-Ĺ&#x2014; ( .Ĺ&#x2014; *,)Ă°.Ĺ&#x2014; ),Ĺ&#x2014; ." Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ă°.Ĺ&#x2014; ) Ĺ&#x2014; the needy. They undertake social welfare activities all year long, fo /-#(!Ĺ&#x2014; )(Ĺ&#x2014; Ă°0 Ĺ&#x2014; *,#),#.3Ĺ&#x2014; , -Ĺ&#x2014; -/ "Ĺ&#x2014; medical, educational sector, environment as well as housing and women empowerment.

MUSCAT: Laying strong emphasis on its role as a responsible corporate citizen in the community, Sohar Aluminium (SA) opened its doors for 62 students from universities and colleges across Oman as part of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual eight-week Summer Students Training Programme ( SSTP).

Designed to complement education with the workplace experience, students majoring in various disciplines ranging from engineering (chemical, mechanical, electrical, civil, industrial) Human Resources, Business Ad'#(#-., .#)(Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; ( ! ' (.Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; (formation Technology (graphic design, software development), process operation, biotechnology, water technology, translation, ( Ĺ&#x2014; Ă°( ( Ĺ&#x2014; " 0 Ĺ&#x2014; (Ĺ&#x2014; - & . Ĺ&#x2014; - Ĺ&#x2014; )(Ĺ&#x2014; ." #,Ĺ&#x2014; Ă° & Ĺ&#x2014; ) Ĺ&#x2014; -./ 3Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; academic achievements and have

joined various departments at the company for their summer internship, says a press release.

The creation of (SA) came about as a result of the 2020 Vision where the industrial sector is a cornerstone of the Sultanateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long term development strategy and establishing a strong industrial sector that Oman can rely on for the future other than oil. Aligned with this vision and its Omanisation efforts, SAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SSTP goal is to help develop the work skills of Omani youth, and provide interns with real work assignments and a chance to engage with accomplished professionals who can offer their expertise into what the industry requires in the coming years, thus helping students plan their future aspirations.

The students are guided throughout the (SSTP) by mem-

bers of the various departments who will impart them towards a successful career and leadership roles. SAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SSTP runs until August 31, and will be concluded through a graduation ceremony beginning September.

Participating educational institutions include Sultan Qaboos University; College of Applied Sciences Sohar, Sohar University; Shinas College of Technology; Caledonian College; Higher Col& ! Ĺ&#x2014; ) Ĺ&#x2014; "()&)!3Ĺ&#x2014; /- .Ä&#x2021;Ĺ&#x2014; , Ĺ&#x2014; College of Technology; University of Nizwa, Salalah College of Technology, Dhofar University, Al Mu- (( Ĺ&#x2014; )&& ! Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; (. ,( .#)( &Ĺ&#x2014; )&& ! Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014; (!#( ,#(!Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; ( # Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; , & ( Ĺ&#x2014; and Washington State University.

SA recognises its role in the development of the community where it operates. Omanisation, which currently stands at 72% of

its workforce, is a driving force within the organisation. The development of its young employees is paramount and with that in mind, Sohar Aluminium has its own internationally recognised training centre which gives each and every employee the opportunity for further learning. Sohar Aluminium has in its short span of operations established itself as a notable industrial giant in the country providing employment to a large number of Omanis and ' %#(!Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;-#!(#Ă° (.Ĺ&#x2014; )(.,# /.#)(Ĺ&#x2014; to Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy.

Sohar Aluminium was formed in September 2004 to undertake Ĺ&#x2014;& ( ' ,%Ĺ&#x2014; , (Ă° & Ĺ&#x2014; &/'#(#/'Ĺ&#x2014; smelter project in the Sultanate of Oman, and is jointly owned by Oman Oil Company, Abu Dhabi .#)( &Ĺ&#x2014; ( ,!3Ĺ&#x2014; )'* (3Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;Ä&#x161;Ĺ&#x2014; TAQA and Rio Tinto Alcan.

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NEW PROGRAMME

MCBS to offer Master in IT MUSCAT: The Modern College of Business and Science (MCBS), will add this fall a new graduate programme to its educational offer — Master in Information Technology. The new programme is launched in affiliation with the University of Missouri, St. Louis (USA) which endorses the degree, says a press release.

The curriculum addresses the demand and expectations of the job market, and provides an indepth overview of information technology areas, knowledge and skills in database development, application software development, software development methodologies along with a common theme of networking and information security.

Students can choose among four specialisations: Networking, Enterprise Resource Planning, Cyber Security, and Project Management. Each of them provides a choice of five specialisation courses.

“The master programme in IT to be delivered at MCBS, has a curriculum designed with support of companies from the IT sector and provides for the hands-on activities one needs in order to develop demonstrable, marketable skills.

“Modern College relies on the expertise of its Industry Advisory Boards when it comes to curriculum design. Moreover we are supported by experts from SAP as the only Omani college — member of the SAP University Alliances — which delivers a SAP dual programme,” said Prof. Joseph Mani - Assistant Dean at MCBS. Courses delivered under the new master programme will allow students to prepare for internationally recognised certifications SAP, CISCO, CEH, Security+, and PMP. Assignments have been planned as individual and team work projects so the students will not only gain knowledge in the concentration areas but will as well have an opportunity to enhance their team building and leadership skills.

The programme aims at preparing students for leadership positions in the IT industry.

Applicants should have a bachelor degree in computing or related disciplines from a university recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education of Oman with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of not less than 2.75. Applicants with adequate work experience with CGPA between 2.74 and 2.5 will also be considered. Classes will be delivered in the evenings as MCBS aspires to meet expectations of those candidates who combine work and studies.

ROUND-UP

NBO successfully concludes Core Banking Programme commitment to nurturing young employees and preparing them to take up complex banking jobs.

The highly intense NBO Core Banking Programme is part of the bank’s talent development and Omanisation strategy MUSCAT: National Bank of Oman (NBO), yesterday announced the successful completion of NBO’s Core Banking Programme, a training initiative that is central to the bank’s talent development strategy.

Aimed at entry level employees, the Core Banking Programme is an intense programme offering training modules on banking concepts

and practices, processing different types of banking transactions, sales, products and services training, and customer service, says a press release.

The training also involves inbranch exercises, role-plays, case studies, videos and group discussions, equipping the trainees to gain banking experience whilst preparing them for a variety of

roles within the bank The most recent batch of the NBO Core Banking Programme celebrated the graduation of 15 Omani nationals who took up jobs in the bank across different business units, including branch banking, sales, and customer service, among others. The successful completion of the training programme reflects the bank’s

Empowering employees Commenting on the training programme, John Chang, general manager and chief retail banking officer, National Bank of Oman, said: “At National Bank of Oman, we have always focused on empowering our employees through various training and mentoring programmes underscored by a strong commitment to promoting and developing local talent. The successful completion of the latest batch of the Core Banking Programme further reflects our philosophy of not only hiring talented employees, but also empowering them to take up senior roles in the banking sector.”

As part of its commitment to support Nationalisation efforts, the bank recently participated in

5th Careers and Entrepreneurship Fair of the Colleges of Applied Sciences that was held under the auspices of Hamad bin Khamis Al Amri, undersecretary at the Ministry of Manpower for Labour Affairs. At the career fair, the bank received a number of applications for the intensive 15-month ‘Qadat Al Mustaqbal’ training programme where they will gain experience and expertise working across different areas of the bank.

The bank’s commitment to talent development for Omani nationals was further testified with the recent announcement of 15 scholarships awarded to underprivileged Omani students to study at some of the world’s best universities. Additionally, the bank will create 25 new graduate employment roles within various divisions of the bank and offer five existing employees the opportunity to complete their MBA at a top international business school.

C O R P O R AT E S U P P O R T

AHLIBANK RAMADAN CAMPAIGN

Jamil Al Balushi, branch manager of ahlibank, Barka presents a cheque to an official (left) from the Association for the Welfare of the Handicapped, Barka as part of the bank’s annual Ramadan campaign. — Supplied photo

UNIQUE PRODUCT

Panasonic launches wearable camera MUSCAT: Panasonic Marketing Middle East and Africa has launched a unique wearable camera which is ultra-compact.

Weighing just 45 grams, the camera is so lightweight that it is possible to shoot hands-free even over long periods and also record exciting scenes in full HD. The latest addition to Panasonic’s already unique camera line-up, the HX-A1 offers yet another revolution in capturing scenes that you have nev-

er seen before, says a press release.

Omasco is the authorised distributor of Panasonic in Oman.

The product is available across Omasco electronic retail stores and major hypermarkets in Oman.

Maisarah Islamic sponsors Quran Recitation Competition MUSCAT: The Directorate of Education in Seeb organised an honouring ceremony for the winners of the Quran Recitation Competition that was organised

by Kaab bin Zaid School. Maisarah Islamic Banking Services was the sponsors of the competition.

The event was held at Al Qasr Omaraa Hall under the auspices of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud Al Siyabi, Secretary-General of the Office of the Grand Mufti of the Sultanate, and was attended by representatives from BankDhofar and Maisarah Islamic Banking Services, as well as officials from the Ministry of Education and invited guests, says a press release.

Maisarah Islamic Banking Services sponsored the competition as part of its support to various initiatives by local educational institutions that aim to contribute to the development of the community. Following the tremendous success of its first and second editions, the annual competition came this year on a larger scale, witnessing the participation of students from 54 schools in the Wilayat of Al Seeb in addition to 30 participants from the local community.

The competition started in February 2015 and participants who were nominated for the final

RAMADAN PROMOTION

Volkswagen offers cash gifts on pre-owned Polo sedans MUSCAT: Das WeltAuto, the certified pre-owned vehicle programme by Volkswagen, will offer cash gifts of up to OMR600 from Wattayah Motors on all preowned Polo sedan models at the Volkswagen showroom in Azaiba this Ramadan, where the sedan will be available at prices starting from just OMR3,500.

Das WeltAuto is set apart from other pre-owned programmes as a result of the stringent quality checks that vehicles must pass to qualify as a certified pre-owned car in the programme.

Those vehicles that make the

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mark are sold with service histories, mileage checks and warranties, offering an experience not unlike that of purchasing a new car, but at a much lower price

point, says a press release.

Andrew Squires, general manager of Wattayah Motors, said: “Das WeltAuto is the worldwide pre-owned car brand by

Volkswagen and is designed to offer our customers absolute peace of mind.

“Delivering service excellence doesn’t end once the customer leaves the showroom with a new car, it is a long term commitment to ensuring that our vehicles stand the test of time.

“Das WeltAuto ensures affordable prices for our customers and they can then benefit from a guaranteed trade-in with a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty when purchasing a Das WeltAuto approved preowned vehicle.”

stage had to compete in the last three days of the contest which took place during the holy month of Ramadan.

The final awarding ceremony brought together high profile guests of honour and officials representing the Ministry of Education and other organisations.

Maisarah continuously works to strengthen its social involve-

ment and support to various community and social initiatives. The sponsorship of such social and educational initiatives strengthens the business-community involvement while promoting the culture of giving back to society. The involvement of Maisarah in such public initiatives also increases the awareness of Islamic finance and banking in the Sultanate.

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

ROUND-UP

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Majlis Meethaq forum hosts PDO MD Majlis Meethaq is a monthly gathering in which a well-known economic, social, religious or cultural persona having influence on Omani society from the Sultanate or abroad is hosted MUSCAT: Meethaq, the pioneer of Islamic banking in Oman from Bank Muscat, hosted recently Majlis Meethaq evening, a unique social forum aimed at facilitating interaction with prominent personalities sharing inspirational aspects of their life and career as well as views and perspective on economy and important social and cultural issues.

Raul Restucci, managing director of Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), addressed the gathering at Bank Muscat head office.

Highlighting some of his experience, Restucci recalled the various

positions, companies, and countries that he worked with in Oil & Gas sector. He noted the challenges and obstacles he had at the beginning of his career. Restucci highlighted the role of PDO in supporting the Omani economy, enhancing oil and gas recourses, and serving the society, says a press release.

Majlis Meethaq is a monthly gathering in which a well-known economic, social, religious or cultural persona having influence on Omani society from the Sultanate or abroad is hosted.

The interaction between Restucci and the audience was on the

effect of regional and global changes on the future of the oil and gas sector, and his personal views on some topics in economy.

Sulaiman Al Harthy, group general manager – Islamic Banking, said: “Meethaq is proud to introduce the Majlis forum aimed at presenting successful role models to community and highlighting their achievements to motivate and inspire citizens, especially youth, to attain success in life. We thank Raul Restucci, managing director of PDO for addressing the session and enlightening the audience on opportunities and chal-

lenges he faced to achieve a successful career. Meethaq, as part of its social development commitment, aims to develop the Majlis forum as an ideal platform to interact with prominent personalities and learn from their experiences in achieving success in life.”

Majlis Meethaq will be held every month in which a well- known economic, social, religious or cultural persona having influence on Omani society from the Sultanate or abroad will be hosted. The interaction between the guests and the audience will primarily focus on aspects of the presenter’s personal

life, success in career and views on important issues facing the country and community.

Al Harthy added: “Meethaq is focused on developing as a benchmark Islamic financial institution on both the local and regional levels. Within just two years of operations, Meethaq has attained the leading position in the Islamic

banking industry in Oman in terms of financing receivables, branch network, products and services, IT infrastructure and human resources development. Meethaq not only provides benchmark Islamic financial solutions but also plays a key role in raising awareness and educating people on key aspects of Islamic banking and finance.”

T R A N S F O R M AT I O N S T R AT E G Y

OAB chooses NCR software to transform ATM experience MUSCAT: NCR Corporation, the global leader in consumer transaction technologies, announced that Oman Arab Bank — one of Oman’s leading banks — has selected NCR Aptra Activate software to deliver next generation omni-channel banking experience.

NCR Aptra Activate will help OAB to migrate to its latest consumer experience banking software platform that seamlessly integrates with banks current infrastructure and achieve unmatched levels of availability, security, and functionality. This multi-channel platform allows the bank to easily and quickly introduce new software apps in the fu-

ture, while ensuring that customers enjoy a consistent look and feel across banking channels in an advanced and secure environment.

“ATMs remain a cornerstone of OAB’s transformation strategy, and with the adoption of NCR APTRA Activate software we pave

the way for enhanced customer experience and the ability to offer a whole new range of transactions, that is in line with our vision to be pioneers in introducing the latest electronic banking systems and services in the country,” said Amin Al Husseini, CEO of OAB.

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ANDRE GREIPEL MAINTAINS NTAINS GERMAN HOLD ON SPRINTS PRINTS On a day in which soldiers who died in World War I were honoured and remembered, Andre Greipel emphasised phasised German sprint domination at the he Tour de France on Wednesday. >C5

Federer face Murray in semifinal Federer defeated the British third seed in the 2012 Wimbledon final before Murray gained revenge just weeks later in the Olympic Games final

LONDON: Seven-time champion Roger Federer and 2013 winner Andy Murray set-up a Wimbledon semifinal showdown Wednesday while world number one Novak Djokovic was hoping to punch his ticket for the last four.

Second seeded Federer reached his 10th Wimbledon semifinal with a 6-3, 7-5, 6-2 win over French 12th seed Gilles Simon.

Murray, the third seed, cruised into his sixth All England Club semifinal with an equally comfortable 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 win against unseeded Canadian Vasek Pospisil.

Federer, 33, who is bidding to become the oldest Wimbledon champion in the Open Era, will be playing in his 37th Grand Slam semifinal.

He shrugged off two rain delays as well as being broken for the first time at the tournament to complete victory in just 94 minutes.

Federer fired 11 aces and 36 winners as he secured a sixth win in eight meetings with Simon, who was attempting to reach the lastfour of a major for the first time.

“The stop and go with the rain are always tough but I think I used them to my advantage. They helped me rather than hindered me,” said Federer who said he was looking forward to meeting Murray.

He holds a narrow 12-11 lead in their heads to heads but has won their last three clashes.

Federer defeated the British third seed in the 2012 Wimbledon final before Murray gained revenge just weeks later in the Olympic Games final.

IN CONTROL: Britain’s Andy Murray returns against Canada’s Vasek Pospisil during their men’s quar-

terfinal match. – AFP

Djokovic glides past Cilic LONDON: Novak Djokovic reached the Wimbledon semi-finals by winning the battle of grand slam champions against Marin Cilic with a comfortable 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 Centre Court victory on Wednesday. Top seed Djoko-

“We both like to look back on that summer of 2012. If we knew I would win Wimbledon and him Olympics, I think we both would have taken it. It was a great summer for us,” said the world number two and 17-time major winner.

Swift revenge Federer broke for a 3-0 lead in the first set against Simon before rain sent the players off Court One for the first rain delay.

Forty minutes later, they returned and Federer swiftly claimed the opener on the back of 15 winners to Simon’s four.

vic had not lost a match to the Croat and his unbeaten record never looked in danger. The holder made it into his 27th grand slam semi with his 50th win at Wimbledon, only the seventh man to reach that number of victories. - Reuters

The Swiss was 4-3 up with a break in the second and then moved to 5-3 on his 116th consecutive service hold, a streak stretching back to the first round in Halle last month.

But that record was shattered in the next game when 30-year-old Simon broke Federer, who had only faced two break points at this year’s Wimbledon before Wednesday.

Federer took swift revenge, however, by regaining the advantage and he was serving for a two sets lead when the showers returned, causing another hold-up for 40 minutes.

It had little effect on the Swiss great as a service winner and back-to-back aces gave him the second set 7-5.

Federer breezed through the decider with breaks in the first and seventh games.

Murray, 28, claimed his 150th Grand Slam match victory to make his 17th Grand Slam semi-final appearance, and his sixth at the All England Club.

“I’ve played Roger many times. I know him well and we get on well, but obviously on Friday it will be a different story,” Murray said.

“We’ve played some good matches here and hopefully this will be a great one.”

Bidding to become the first British man to win multiple Wimbledon titles since Fred Perry, who lifted the trophy from 1934-1936, Murray has extended his winning streak on grass to 10 matches.

With David Beckham, Prince William and his wife Kate among numerous celebrities packed onto Centre Court, the two-time Grand Slam champion was barely tested.

Pospisil’s frustration was summed up by receiving two warnings for exceeding the time limit between serves. - AFP

SMOOTH WIN: Roger Federer of Switzerland celebrates after win-

ning his match against Gilles Simon of France at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London. – Reuters

C2

THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

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Sharapova looks to end 11-year drought against Serena Williams Serena Williams and Sharapova meet on Thursday in the latest instalment of a bitter rivalry that took root on Centre Court in 2004 and still festers more than a decade later

LONDON: Serena Williams fired a warning to Maria Sharapova ahead of their Wimbledon semifinal clash as the world number one admitted she saves her best performances for clashes with her fiercest rival. Williams and Sharapova meet on Thursday in the latest instalment of a bitter rivalry that took root on Centre Court in 2004 and still festers more than a decade later. Sharapova caused one of the great Wimbledon shocks 11 years ago when, aged just 17, she defeated Serena in the final to claim her first Grand Slam title.

The duo’s relationship has remained frosty ever since, occasionally turning nasty — as it did when they traded barbs about Sharapova dating Williams’ ex-boyfriend Grigor Dimitrov and the American’s own relationship with her

French coach Patrick Mouratoglou.

But, while Sharapova has collected five Grand Slam titles and built a global brand that makes her the world’s highest paid female athlete, the 28-year-old has still been left trailing in Serena’s wake and the Russian hasn’t come out on top since 2004. The 33-year-old American has a 17-2 lead in their head to head record, winning their last 16 meetings and depriving Sharapova of three major titles — in the 2007 and 2015 Australian Open finals and the 2013 French Open final.

Serena has also won all four of her semifinal meetings with Sharapova, defeated the Russian in their previous Wimbledon clash in the last 16 in 2010 and routed her in the 2012 Olympic final at the All England Club.

After battling back to defeat Vic-

toria Azarenka 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 in the last eight — extending her winning run at Grand Slams to 26 matches and her 2015 record to 37-1 — Serena can’t wait to take on Sharapova again. “I love playing Maria. I think she brings out the best in me. I thought we had a wonderful final in Australia. It was very entertaining,” said Serena, who remains on course to hold all four major titles at once and is in the hunt to clinch the first calendar Grand Slam since 1988.

“For me, I don’t feel like I have any pressure going into this match.

“It’s just totally different for me. I don’t have anything to prove. I won all the Grand Slams, multiple times.

Now it’s just I’m here just to enjoy it.

It’s actually making me play better, which is crazy.”

Sharapova is in her fifth Wimbledon semifinal, and her first since 2011, thanks to a hard-fought 6-3, 6-7 (3/7), 6-2 last eight victory over Coco Vandeweghe.

Asked if her lack of success in the Serena match-up would be weighing on her mind, Sharapova gamely insisted she still relishes the challenge of playing the American. “I think it’s always a new match. I haven’t had great success against her. I would love to change that around. That’s how I look at it,” the world number four said.

“Definitely no secrets between each other’s games, but it will be an incredible moment for me to step out on Centre Court against her again. If you look at Grand Slam champions, you look at their draws, everyone comes from a few challenges, being down in matches.

“There’s no easy road to victory.

You’re going to have your bumps.

That’s the way I see it.”

The other semifinal may end up being overshadowed by Serena v Maria Part 20, but there is still plenty of intrigue in the meeting between Agnieszka Radwanska and Garbine Muguruza.

Radwanska defeated Madison Keys 7-6 (7/3), 3-6, 6-3 to reach her fourth Grand Slam semifinal and her third at Wimbledon.

The Polish 13th seed reached the Wimbledon final in 2012, losing to Serena, and she hopes her experience of the latter stages of a major will stand her in good stead against Spanish 20th seed Muguruza, who will be appearing in the last four of a Grand Slam for the first time.

Muguruza, 21, beat Swiss 15th seed Timea Bacsinszky 7-5, 6-3 to become the first Spanish woman to make the Wimbledon semifinals since Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario in 1997. “Centre Court is special,” she said. - AFP

STANDING IN WAY: Maria Sharapova is in her fifth Wimbledon

semifinal and she hopes to get the better of her rival Serena. – AFP

TENNIS

Kyrgios shocked by criticism SYDNEY: Brash Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios says he is shocked by the criticism levelled at him and admits to feeling lost and confused.

The 20-year-old’s antics at Wimbledon, including claims of “tanking”, arguing with umpires and sarcasm in press conferences, has been slammed in the Australian media with The Australian broadsheet Wednesday saying his reputation was in tatters.

His All England Club campaign — he was knocked out by France’s Richard Gasquet on Monday — culminated in a very public spat with swim legend Dawn Fraser on Tuesday, who called his behaviour “absolutely disgusting”.

She also told him to “go back to where his parents came from” in

comments the much-maligned Kyrgios called “racist” and for which she later apologised.

Australian-born Kyrgios, who has Greek and Malaysian heritage, said he had been scarred by the intensity of the backlash and admitted he was contemplating a way out of it. “For sure you have those doubts and those thoughts,” he told Fairfax Media in an interview published Wednesday about wanting to walk away from tennis.

“I definitely don’t love the sport.

I like it to a degree, but I don’t love it. It’s been tough for me waking up everyday with negative messages. People don’t really know what goes on in my life. I’ve read a lot of what’s been said about me.

I’ve read a whole lot.

“Comments like ‘he shouldn’t

be representing Australia’, ‘he’s a disgrace’. It’s tough to read. I’m human. I don’t really want them to love me. I don’t want their love, but everyone deserves respect.”

While some see his behaviour as petulant and disrespectful, others view his colourful antics as good for a sport in need of characters and he insisted he was not going to change who he was.

“I think that’s something that makes me a good tennis player — the amount of belief I have in myself and how I back myself,” he said. The way I talk to the crowd and do all that stuff, that’s when I play my best tennis.”

But the Australian world number 29, who split with long-time coach Todd Larkham just before Wimbledon, admitted he had doubts. - AFP FOOTBALL

Tottenham sign Atletico defender Alderweireld LONDON: Tottenham Hotspur have signed Atletico Madrid defender Toby Alderweireld on a five-year contract, the Premier League club said on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old spent last season on loan with Southampton, making 26 Premier League appearances, and had been linked in media reports with a permanent move to St Mary’s.

But the Belgium international will join countrymen Jan Vertonghen, Moussa Dembele and Nacer Chadli at White Hart Lane after joining Spurs for a fee reported in British media to be around 11.5 million pounds.

“I’m very proud to be a Tottenham player. I’m happy to be here and hope to have a wonderful time with this team,” the club’s twitter feed quoted him as saying. - Reuters

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SPORTS FOOTBALL

Rivaldo returns to action at 43 in Brazil second division RIO DE JANEIRO: Rivaldo returned to action at the age of 43 on Tuesday in a bid to kickstart Mogi Mirim’s campaign in Brazil’s second division, but it was only after the former World Player of the Year went off that his team were able to claim their first win. Rivaldo, who is club president, said last month he only planned to help out occasionally but the 2002 World Cup winner started Tuesday’s game against Nautico in Serie B. He missed a chance to give his side the lead when he shot wide midway through the first half and also had a free kick saved by goalkeeper Julio Cesar during the second half.

Rivaldo was substituted in the 68th minute with his side trailing 1-0, and two minutes later Mogi Mirim were level.

Serginho grabbed the equaliser and then went on to score the winner two minutes before time, giving Mogi Mirim their first win in 11 outings.

“After one year and three months, I started training back again and went out to play at a match after just 20 days and that inspires any younger player,” said Rivaldo.

“I helped the team get out of this predicament. We are still in a difficult situation and we are doing our best to get out of it.”

Despite the win, Mogi Mirim remain bottom of the table, level on six points with Ceara.

Top Brazilian players are often able to play into their late 30s and early 40s in their homeland, helped by the modest standards.

Romario played for first division side Vasco da Gama at 41 and goalkeeper Rogerio Ceni is still playing for Sao Paulo, also in the first division, at 42. - Reuters

Sultanate sand stars begin World Cup campaign today Asian champions Oman are placed in Group B along with Switzerland, Italy and Costa Rica and will open campaign against the Swiss on Thursday night (Oman time 8.30pm)

Times News Service MUSCAT: Talib-Hilal coached Oman will set the ball rolling on the sands of Portugal as they kickoff campaign in the Fifa Beach Soccer World Cup 2015 on Thursday.

After being placed in a balanced group, Oman team are eyeing a berth in the knockout stage as a primary objective.

Asian champions Oman are placed in Group B along with Switzerland, Italy and Costa Rica.

The Beach Soccer World Cup will be organised in Praia da Baia from July 9 to 19.

Oman will be playing in the World Cup for the second time, after making their debut at Italy World Cup back in 2011. Talib Hilal-coached Oman have qualified for Portugal 2015 after winning the Asian title, which they won after defeating Japan 3-2 via penalties in the final played on Katara Beach in Doha on March 28.

Asian championship runnersup Japan and third-place winners Iran also made it to the World Cup. Meanwhile, hosts Portugal are drawn in Group A along with Japan, Argentina and Senegal.

CONFIDENT BUNCH: Oman Beach Soccer team trained by Talib Hilal is confident of making an impression in World Cup. – OFA

Multi-title winners and perennial favourites Brazil are placed in Group C. The group also comprises Mexico, Spain and Iran.

Twice winners Russia will begin their title defence in Group D where they will be competing against Paraguay, Tahiti and Madagascar.

On their World Cup debut in 2011, Oman failed to make an impression finishing at the bottom of Group B where they lost to Portugal, El Salvador and Argentina.

At Portugal 2015, Talib’s boys will start their campaign against Switzerland on July 9.

They play their second Group B match against Italy on July 11 and then take on Costa Rica on July 13.

The quarterfinals are slated for July 16 and the semifinals will be played on July 18. The final is scheduled for July 19.

On their World Cup debut in 2011, Oman failed to make an impression finishing at the bottom of Group B where they lost to Portugal, El Salvador and Argentina. In 2015, Oman reached Portugal 2015 by becoming Asian champions, after getting the better of Japan — the favourites and winners of the previous two continental tournaments. Oman will now be gunning to improve on their showing four years ago

Group A and B matches both get underway, with eight teams looking to get off to a positive start in a tournament that will keep beach soccer fans buzzing.

The watched for match on the opening day is between hosts

CRICKET

No ‘easy’ way back for humiliated Brazil RIO DE JANERIO: Exactly a year after their 7-1 World Cup humiliation by Germany, Brazil’s once allconquering football team appears as lost as ever and, says coach Dunga, with no quick way back.

Wednesday is the first anniversary of Brazil’s shock exit from the tournament it was hosting and had been under huge pressure to win — a defeat as traumatic as any in a country of 200 million where football is entwined in the national soul.

And from the highest levels of Brazilian football administration to the popular beach pitches of Rio’s Copacabana district, there is agreement that something serious must be done.

“We all have to improve,” Dunga said in comments on the Globo Esporte sports news site.

“We need the humility to know that we have to work to recover that dominance of world football, but we also have to admit that it’s not that easy.”

Dunga was speaking late Monday after meeting a host of former national team trainers for a postmortem on Brazil’s most recent fiasco — elimination from the Copa America last month at the hands of minnows Paraguay.

But the real hurt for footballmad Brazil is that extraordinary thrashing by Germany in the World Cup semifinals on July 8, 2014. Germany went on to claim the championship previously held

by Brazil a record five times.

Dunga put that loss on a par

NO QUICK WAY BACK: Dunga calls for overall improvement.

with Brazil’s 1950 World Cup final defeat to lowly Uruguay in Rio’s grand Maracana stadium, an event so traumatising it even has its own name — “the Maracanazo.”

The Germany calamity “is a date that will leave a mark, just like 1950, and just like the five times that Brazil was world champion,” Dunga said.

A year later, Dunga is warning of a gritty future for Brazil’s yellow-shirted players.

“We have to see the positive side. We can’t always win,” he said. “We have to try to go forward in every way we can.”

‘Players who can think’ Just how to go forward is something that Dunga’s brain trust of former World Cup winners says it has been meeting — and will keep meeting on — to figure out.

To many Brazilians it seems incredible that in a country with so

much raw talent that their top 11 could be anything but the best.

On Rio’s Copacabana beach, skilled amateurs playing the traditional game and the even more breath-taking futevolei, or foot volleyball, say the national team needs better-rounded players who won’t depend so heavily on superstar Neymar.

“The team needs many more who can think for themselves,” said Marcus Vinicios, 44, sweating after a game of futevolei, in which teams of four use their heads, chests and legs to keep the ball pinging back and forth over a volleyball net.

“We should have players who can make their own moves, not just following around after one player,” he said as players did acrobatic kicks and dives across the sand Tuesday. “We need players who when they get the ball at their feet are not thinking, ‘Where’s

Neymar?’” he said. Most analysts agree with that verdict in the wake of last month’s quarter-final flop from the South American championship, the Copa America, in Chile.

The once glittering team lacked creativity and became simply toothless once Neymar was sent off against Colombia for headbutting an opposing player.

Former Brazil international Cafu said after that opponents “have lost respect.... They no longer fear us.”

But maybe Brazil’s golden touch can be brought back.

Falcao, a star of the 1980s, says the team needs to find a core of better players, but not anything as rare as a new Pele.

“We have to search for aboveaverage players, not necessarily superstars,” he said, pointing to the victorious Germans. “The German team that was world champion last year has no superstar, but five players above average.”

Other recommendations from the group looking into Brazil’s tournament failures include reform in the lower leagues and better training for coaches at all levels.

Brazil appears to be confronting its problems, but as Dunga warned, the road may be tough.

Next up for Brazil are the 2018 World Cup qualifiers, which begin in October. And even these matches are now no longer seen as the formality they once would have been. - AFP

Portugal and Japan. According to beachsoccer.com, the host nation face their first big challenge and will no doubt draw on the fervent backing of the crowd against a strong Japanese team.

After missing out on the last

Beach Soccer World Cup in Tahiti two years ago, Portugal kick off ‘their’ tournament striving to achieve a maiden World Cup triumph.

However, Mario Narciso’s side know they face a stern opening test against the runners-up in AFC qualifying, led by ace goalscorer Ozu Moreira, winner of the adidas Silver Ball at Tahiti 2013.

The other match is between Argentina and Senegal, a pair that both made the tournament by narrow margins in their respective qualification competitions.

The first teams to step onto the Praia da Baia pitch will be Italy and Costa Rica, who play the tournament Group B opener.

The Italians’ sole defeat in the European qualification competition was against Russia in the semifinals, after which they picked up the consolation prize of a bronze medal by beating Spain.

Moreover, Italy were runnersup in the first European Games held in June in Azerbaijan, when they only succumbed 3-2 in the final, again against world champions Russia. Costa Rica, for their part, were also runners-up in the CONCACAF tournament, and an impressive campaign was only blemished by a 4-0 defeat to Mexico in the final.

The first day of matches is rounded off with the appearance of one of the big favourites for this World Cup. Dubai 2009 runnersup Switzerland lost just one game in European qualification, the final against all-powerful Russia, and come face to face with another team on a high Oman.

Oman reached Portugal 2015 by becoming Asian champions, after getting the better of Japan the favourites and winners of the previous two continental tournaments. Oman will now be gunning to improve on their showing on their World Cup debut at Italy 2011, when they finished the group phase without a point.

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SPORTS

Ton-up Root to England’s rescue It took Root just 118 balls to complete his hundred — the quickest in the first match of an Ashes series — and was the 24-year-old’s seventh century in only 28 Tests

CARDIFF: Joe Root made Australia pay for dropping him on nought by making a century that rescued England from a dire position on the first day of the first Ashes Test at Sophia Gardens on Wednesday.

Root’s 134 was the cornerstone of England’s stumps total of 343 for seven.

He came in with England struggling at 43 for three after the loss of skipper Alastair Cook and Ian Bell in quick succession before lunch.

But he still upped the tempo and, with Yorkshire team-mate Gary Ballance who made a gritty 61, Root helped add 153 for the fourth wicket on a sluggish pitch.

It took Root just 118 balls to complete his hundred — the quickest in the first match of an Ashes series — and was the 24-year-old’s seventh century in only 28 Tests.

This was also Root’s first Test innings against Australia since he was dropped for the climax of the 2013/14 Ashes campaign in Sydney — a match England lost as they were routed 5-0.

Root and Ben Stokes (52) put on a brisk 84 for the fifth wicket before both batsmen fell to left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc before stumps. Moeen Ali was 26 not out and Stuart Broad unbeaten on nought at the close.

Starc led Australia’s attack with three wickets for 84 in 19 overs.

But fellow left-arm quick Mitchell Johnson, whose 37 wickets were central to Australia’s success in the last Ashes, went wicketless as his 20 overs cost 87 runs.

Hazlewood blow Despite the initially overcast conditions, Cook decided to

bat first after winning the toss.

Josh Hazlewood struck with just his sixth ball on Wednesday when he had fellow Ashes debutant Adam Lyth, aiming legside, caught low down by a diving David Warner at gully.

Michael Clarke, bidding to lead Australia to a first Ashes series win in Britain in 14 years, lived up to his reputation as an enterprising captain by bringing on off-spinner Nathan Lyon as early as the 10th over.

Cook could not get Lyon away and the 14th consecutive ‘dot ball’ he received from the spinner saw him out for 20 when an edged cut was caught by wicketkeeper Brad Haddin.

The struggling Bell was then lbw for one to a rapid, full-length and swinging Starc delivery.

Root almost went lbw to Starc first ball, spared by a thin inside edge, and next ball he was dropped by a diving Haddin, unable to hold a right-handed chance.

During the 2013 Ashes Test at Lord’s, Haddin dropped Root on eight before the Yorkshireman

went on to make 180. England got through the second session without losing a wicket, although Lyon was convinced he had Root lbw for 62 when the batsman missed a sweep.

However, umpire Kumar Dharmasena’s not out verdict was upheld on review after replays showed the ball had pitched outside leg stump. Ballance’s near four-hour innings ended shortly after tea when he was plumb lbw on the back foot to a full and swinging Hazlewood delivery.

Root pressed on, an elegant cover-drive for four off Hazlewood, seeing him to a century.

Stokes had a stroke of luck when a top-edged pull off Johnson flew over Haddin’s head for six.

But that didn’t stop the standard-bearer for England’s new ‘aggressive’ approach going down the pitch to drive Lyon for six in far more convincing fashion.

Both Root and Stokes fell late in the day as Starc took two wickets for six runs in 14 balls.

Root exited when an edged drive off Starc was caught low down by first slip Shane Watson. He batted for nearly five hours and faced 166 balls, including 17 fours.

Starc then bowled Stokes with a swinging delivery that knocked over middle and off stumps.

Australia struck with the new ball when Jos Buttler’s checked drive off Hazlewood flew straight to Johnson at mid-on to end a seventh-wicket stand of 50 in 57 balls with Ali. - AFP

SCOREBOARD

England 1st Innings A. Lyth c Warner b Hazlewood 6 A. Cook c Haddin b Lyon 20 G. Ballance lbw b Hazlewood 61 I. Bell lbw b Starc 1 J. Root c Watson b Starc 134 B. Stokes b Starc 52 J. Buttler c Johnson b Hazlewood 27 M. Ali not out 26 S. Broad not out 0 Extras (b-13, lb-2, nb-1) 16 Total (7 wkts, 88 overs, 393 mins) 343 To bat: M Wood, J Anderson Fall of wickets: 1-7 (Lyth), 2-42 (Cook),

3-43 (Bell), 4-196 (Ballance), 5-280 (Root), 6-293 (Stokes), 7-343 (Buttler) Bowling: Starc 19-4-84-3 (1nb); Hazlewood 22-8-70-3; Johnson 20-2-87-0; Lyon 17-454-1; Watson 8-0-24-0; Warner 2-0-9-0 Australia: David Warner, Chris Rogers, Steven Smith, Michael Clarke (capt), Adam Voges, Shane Watson, Brad Haddin (wkt), Mitchell Johnson, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon Toss: England Umpires: Kumar Dharmasena (SRI), Marais Erasmus (RSA) TV umpire: Chris Gaffaney (NZL)

FINE CENTURY: Joe Root celebrates scoring a century in the Ashes Test against Australia. – Reuters CRICKET

Want to play all three formats for India, says Murali Vijay MUMBAI: Given a break after a gap of two seasons to play in ODIs against Zimbabwe, regular India Test opener Murali Vijay wants to make full use of it without looking too far ahead.

“I have got an opportunity to play in ODIs after two seasons. I love to play one day internationals and am looking forward to do well in this series. But I am not looking too far ahead,” Vijay said, during an open media session ahead of the Indian team’s departure early tomorrow morning.

The Indian squad is to play three ODIs and two T20 games against Zimbabwe on the short visit for which seven seniors, including regular captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, have been rested and the side is being led by Ajinkya Rahane.

Vijay said that he has not had a decent run in ODIs, but insisted he was not blaming anyone.

“In seven seasons since I made my debut(in Tests), I have played just 14 ODIs. I am not blaming anyone but when you don’t have a specific role to play, it becomes difficult. I am not cribbing but only want do well on this tour,” he said. Vijay, who has had a splendid run in Tests, since he made his comeback against Australia at home a few years ago but missed

CONFIDENT: India opener Murali Vijay wants to make use of the

opportunity.

out on World Cup selection, said he wanted to play and do well in all three formats of the game.

“I love to play and want to play all three formats. I used to be considered as a good one-day player for my state. Later on I got the opportunity to play Tests and I enjoyed it,” he said.

“It’s also a good opportunity to all the players. We are all raring to go out and do well on this tour. I think we will do well,” he said.

“All I am looking forward to is the opportunity. A lot of us were in the fringes (for ODIs),” he said.

About the rule changes in ODIs effective from this tour for India, Vijay said he was particularly happy about the absence of compulsory close-in catchers.

“I have been playing with white balls recently and I feel I am in good rhythm,” he said.

Pacer Mohit Sharma also expressed relief over the rule changes especially from the point of view as a bowler.

“It’s a big relief. We will be punished less in the 41-50 over period,” said Mohit, who was part of the World Cup team that lost in

I love to play and want to play all three formats. I used to be considered as a good one-day player for my state. Later on I got the opportunity to play Tests and I enjoyed it Murali Vijay the semifinals to eventual champions Australia.

Mohit said he had worked hard on his bowling to improve his pace and got good tips from Dhoni and former coach Duncan Fletcher to make minor alterations in his runup. “They told me my body was falling back when I ran and I changed it and there was a lot of improvement overall in my bowling,” he remarked. “I want to serve Indian cricket for long,” he added. - PTI

T H U R S DAY, JU LY 9, 2 0 1 5

C O M M E N TA RY

What Team India is obsessed about, from skipper to tail-enders

I

f a lazy, complacent attitude had been the predictable part of most Indian teams when pitted against lesser mortals, the one led by Ajinkya Rahane looks impressive in the aspect of what it takes for a team to win —a high-octane competitive spirit that seems to run through the squad from top to tail. Whether this spirit unites or divides the team is going to be the most interesting twist in the fresh-season tale Indian cricket fans are looking to discover.

The pervasive spirit of competition seems to spare no one, not even the skipper, so what happens when the entire team, every one of the 11 selected to play, get obsessed with the idea of unveiling their excellence in all its might and glory, inspired by the stimulating thought of being just handed their best opportunity to impress the selectors and, at the same time, intimidated by the fear that wasting the chance could spell doom for their dreams— forever for some and for a year or two for others?

Of the 14 players named in the team, only Rahane and Murali Vijay are regulars in at least one of the three formats of the game. Both now sort of own their slots in the Test squad, but both would like to have a better bite of the yummy three-layer cake.

Vijay is looking at the tour as an ideal platform to lay claim to a consistent run in limited overs games, and it’s the same consistency Rahane too is talking about in pre-departure interactions.

The task on hand for Vijay seems to be the proverbial tough nut to crack, considering the fact that the slot he is most suited for has already been booked by Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma.

Both Dhawan and Sharma are rested, and they would be right back in the team if they don’t suffer from injury, and that leaves Vijay with the unenviable dream of doing something that’s out of this world, maybe something like trying to score a century in all the three ODIs so the selectors are forced to sit back and take a fresh look at their plans.

Rahane has better options.

He could try to prove his mettle as an opener, and being captain he enjoys the advantage of picking the slot

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Greipel maintains German dominance

BEYOND THE BOUNDARY

Tony Martin keeping PRASAD PANICKER

hold of the race

he likes. On the other hand, he could use the tour to bat in the middle order and bring in the necessary flexibility and firepower to convey a message to Dhoni and the selectors. Rahane was reluctant to disclose what route he would really take on the tour, but it would be wise for him to disclose his credentials for the vacancy that exists, which is the No. 5th or 6th slot, than fighting with Sharma or Dhawan for the opener’s role.

Interestingly, it’s the fifth or sixth slot quite a few others in the team too are pinning their hopes on. Robin Uthappa and Kedar Jadhav are two of the blokes who are looking at the Zimbabwe glass as half-full.

Uthappa has already put in his CV, declaring that he has “what it takes to perform that (No. 6) role and bring about that flexibility the team is looking for”, and Jadhav has made public his keenness to “make a case to the selectors”.

Manish Pandey, another young gun in the team, thinks his opportunity is coming “a little later” than he was expecting, so he has all the more reason than the others around him to take the best bite of the Zimbabwe pie.

Being just 25, Pandey has set his sights on a long run and, naturally, he wants to be part of the Indian team for a long time.

Competition is the name of the game on mind for almost every member of the Indian team. Competition with the other guys in the dressing room. For a slot. For an ideal slot. For a long run. Too much is too much, so could this too much of the sense of competition among the players lead to a selfish, unhealthy display of purpose where they care for individual milestones than the interest of the team, which is winning? In that context, it’s better if someone reminds them that after the game the king and the pawn go into the same box.

leader’s yellow

The writer is a freelance contributor based in India. All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not reflect those of Times of Oman

jersey and Greipel in charge of the green points jersey, not to mention Germans winning three of the five stages so far, France’s eastern neighbour is in charge of the 2015 Grand Boucle

AMIENS: On a day in which soldiers who died in World War I were honoured and remembered, Andre Greipel emphasised German sprint domination at the Tour de France on Wednesday.

In fact, with Tony Martin keeping hold of the race leader’s yellow jersey and Greipel in charge of the green points jersey, not to mention Germans winning three of the five stages so far, France’s eastern neighbour is in charge of the 2015 Grand Boucle.

Greipel, 32, overhauled Mark Cavendish and Alexander Kristoff while holding off the fast finishing Peter Sagan to win the 189.5km fifth stage from Arras to Amiens.

The Lotto-Soudal rider picked the right wheel and darted out from behind Cavendish, who finished third, to power to the line, just reaching it before the Sagan express scorched past in second.

Having also won Sunday’s second stage, Greipel proved he is so far the fastest man in the peloton, just as compatriot Marcel Kittel had done the previous two years, winning four stages in each.

Last year Germans won four of the first six stages before finishing with seven out of 21 in total, and this was their second in a row fol-

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ALL SET FOR THE ICC WORLD TWENTY20 QUALIFIERS The captains of Group B teams — Afghanistan, Kenya, UAE, Canada, Scotland, The Netherlands and Oman — pose with the World Twenty20 Qualifier trophy. The ICC qualifiers, hosted by Ireland and Scotland, is set to start on Thursday. Fourteen Associate teams will attempt to outwit, outplay and outlast one another and the six surviving teams after an intense 51-match event in 18 days will earn a ticket to India for the 2016 World Twenty20 next March. — Supplied photo

GREAT SPRINT: Lotto-Soudal rider Andre Greipel of Germany (C) sprints to win the 189.5km (117.7 miles) 5th stage of the 102nd Tour de France cycling race from Arras to Amiens, France. – Reuters

lowing Martin’s on Tuesday.

But while there was joy for Greipel, it was another tough day at the Tour with several crashes as New Zealand’s Jack Bauer and French sprinter Nacer Bouhanni both left the race, taking the number of abandonments to nine following the seven riders who crashed out on Monday.

Behind Martin, 2013 champion Chris Froome remained second overall at 12sec with Tejay Van Garderen third at 25sec.

Reigning champion Vincenzo Nibali is still just over a minute and half behind Froome with Nairo Quintana even further back at almost 2min.

But two-time former winner Alberto Contador is eighth overall at 48sec and 36sec behind

Froome. The stage was specifically designed to commemorate the war dead, particularly those from Commonwealth countries, during the centenary events organised to remember World War I. Commemoration events began early in the morning while the peloton rode through several World War I battlegrounds, including the Somme, and past numerous war cemetaries.

A lone escapee pulled clear of the peloton early on and built up a lead of more than three minutes but Frenchman Pierre-Luc Perichon was reeled in soon after the stage’s intermediate sprint, less than halfway into the day’s racing.

The sprint was eagerly contested as the race for the green jersey was the main prize to fight

for other than the stage victory on a flat stage. Greipel beat John Degenkolb and Cavendish to extend his lead before also landing the 50 points on offer to the stage winner.

An acceleration initially by Martin’s Etixx-Quick Step and then Froome’s Sky caused a split in the peloton on a long straight with crosswinds and the second group quickly lost a minute before fading away and never regaining contact. The lead group contained around 60-70 riders out of the 190 still in the race but a crash on a slippery stretch of road 25km from the finish reduced the lead group even further.

However, none of the jersey wearers nor the overall favourites were caught out and the finish proved relatively clam. - AFP

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Asia’s world class women threatening to overtake the men SINGAPORE: Could women’s football in Asia surpass the corruption-marred, under-achieving men’s game in the popularity stakes?

It might be a long way off but another successful women’s World Cup for the continent’s teams is likely to have only helped close the gap in a region where the men’s game’s biggest mark on the world stage is the matchfixing endemic.

It was a familiar sorry story last year at the men’s World Cup for Australia, Iran, Japan and South Korea as all four failed to record a victory and exited at the first hur-

dle promising, as ever, to do better next time. But in Canada, at the recently concluded women’s tournament, the region shone brightly with debutants Thailand the only of the five not to make it through to the knockout stages.

China and Australia made it to the quarter-finals, South Korea won their first match and reached the knockout stages for the first time, while Japan put up a brave defence of the title before losing 5-2 to the United States in Sunday’s final.

Eleven million television viewers in Japan tuned in to watch the final, Fifa said, higher ratings than

any of the matches at last year’s men’s World Cup that did not feature the Japanese team.

Praise for the Nadeshiko came from all corners, including Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, while the men humbly looked on.

“They always provide a dream,” Japan men’s striker Shinji Okazaki told Kyodo News this week of the women’s efforts.

“The fact that they got to the final shows how strong they are. We (the men) must learn from them.”

Room for growth The achievements of the Asian teams were also praised by Asian

Football Confederation (AFC) president Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, more used to firefighting corruption amongst his members than lauding performances.

The Bahraini was quick to praise his organisation’s work in promoting the women’s game, highlighting the body’s annual women’s day and the $200,000 subsidies Asia’s five finalists in Canada received from the AFC. “I am confident that Asian women’s teams will continue to excel on the world stage, with new contenders also starting to challenge established teams for the top posi-

tions,” he said in a statement.

“This shows that our women’s football development programmes are starting to bear fruit.”

While green shoots are emerging for the women’s game in Asia, backed by Australian Moya Dodd, the first woman elected to the AFC’s executive committee, there is plenty of room for growth to muscle in further on the men’s popularity share.

Only half of the continent’s near 50 countries signed up for the television rights of the Women’s World Cup, with the game receiving little traction in countries where women’s sport is not widely

encouraged. Just 20 member associations out of Asia’s 46 put forward a women’s team for the 2014 Asian Cup qualifiers, while the women’s football tournament was dropped by Singapore organisers at the Southeast Asian Games last month.

Dodd, though, believed there was a huge support and commitment to grow women’s football in the AFC. “It’s a credit to our Member Associations and their commitment to make football accessible for girls and women,” she said earlier this year at the first ever AFC Women’s Football Day. - Reuters

Gerrard says he is not in Los Angeles for a holiday

MRI CRICKET

Gerrard, 35, has joined the Galaxy STARS OF THE NIGHT: Shams of Asfandyar and Nadeem of Abu

Dhabi Travel who were adjudged man of the matches.

after spending his entire professional

Abu Dhabi Travel, Asfandyar XI win

career, 17 seasons, with Liverpool and vowed that he was in Los Angeles

MUSCAT: Abu Dhabi Travel beat Royal Challengers by eight wickets in a knock-out match, while Asfandyar XI beat National Gas by 2 runs in a League match of the 6th Al Turki/NMC Cup 2015, underway at the Al Rifa ground near Azaiba Beach. The tournament is sponsored by Al Turki Enterprises and National Metal Cans.

Brief scores: Royal Challenger 65 for 2 in 8 overs (Nitin

35 not out, Giri 19, Rauf 1 for 5) lost to Abu Dhabi Travel 66 for 2 in 7.1 overs (Nadeem 27 not out, Sherbaz 15). Man of the match: Nadeem of Abu Dhabi Travel.

Asfandyar XI 57 for 8 in 8 overs (Faisal 15, Naeem 15, Zahid 3 for 17, Tahir 2 for 12) beat National Gas 55 for 9 in 8 overs (Tahir 27, Zahid 8, Fazal 2 for 8, Shams 2 for 7). Man of the match; Shams of Asfandyar XI.

FOOTBALL

Ruiz joins Sporting Lisbon LISBON: Costa Rica captain Bryan Ruiz has joined Sporting Lisbon from Fulham on a threeyear contract which includes a 60 million euros ($66.16 million) buyout clause, the Portuguese club said. Apart from a six-month loan spell at PSV Eindhoven last year, the 29-year-old attacking

midfielder spent four seasons at Fulham, the last in the second tier of English football.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity,” said Ruiz on Twitter.

Sporting finished third in the Portuguese league last season but pulled off a major coup by signing coach Jorge Jesus. - Reuters

for the long haul

LOS ANGELES: New Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard says he did not want to play out his days as a “squad” member at Liverpool and had little hesitation signing for the Major League Soccer team.

Gerrard, 35, has joined the Galaxy after spending his entire professional career, 17 seasons, with Liverpool and vowed that he was in Los Angeles for the long haul.

“I had options to stay in the Premier League, options around Europe, but I didn’t want to compete against Liverpool,” Gerrard told a news conference in Los Angeles on Tuesday as he was introduced to the American media.

“I love Liverpool Football Club and I always will do... but I didn’t want to become a squad player or a sub at the club I love.

“If there’s anyone out there that

SHIRT NO. 8: New Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard, second from left, poses with Chris Klein, left, LA Galaxy President Bruce Arena, second right, LA Galaxy Head Coach and General Manager Dan Beckerman, AEG President and CEO, after a news conference. – AFP

thinks I’m coming here for a holiday and a last pay cheque, they’ll be proved wrong very soon.

“I’m looking forward to staying here as long as possible. I love Liverpool, the city, and I will miss it at times. “I’m a Scouser and I’m proud to be a Scouser but I want to give my children a chance to live in a new place.”

Gerrard, who will follow in the footsteps of former England team mate David Beckham at the Galaxy, said he had been courted aggressively by Los Angeles and had sounded out Beckham before signing.

“David is a hero of mine. He’s someone I’ve leaned on and asked for advice before I came here.”

Gerrard has also been welcomed

by Galaxy captain Robbie Keane, who has been in fine form recently, scoring a hat-trick last Saturday.

The defending MLS Cup champions Galaxy have also been performing strongly, with three wins in their past four matches.

Gerrard said Keane, a former Liverpool team mate, had “lent me some factor-50 (sunscreen) as well so I didn’t burn on day one”.

Gerrard and wife Alex arrived

FOOTBALL

FOOTBALL

MEDC wins Ramadan football tournament 2015 MUSCAT: The Ramadan football tournament concluded on Monday with MEDC becoming the new champion. The final match between MEDC and Sohail Bahwan Holding was witnessed by football fans Omar Al Wahaibi, CEO, Nama Group, as well senior officials from the various subsidiaries and participating teams. The tournament was organised by GPDC, a subsidiary of Nama Group.

The two teams started the match with a huge excitement, with each team losing opportunities to make a score right till the closing time. The two teams then resorted to penalty kicks in which Sohail Bahwan Holding scored 4 goals and MEDC scored 5, making them the winner.

The coronation ceremony began by honoring the participating teams and referees committee for effectively and efficiently managing the event. Dr. Mohammed Ab-

in Los Angeles a week ago, while their three daughters were due to arrive later on Tuesday after staying in England to complete school exams. “The last seven days has been a bit of a whirlwind,” he said. “I’ve had a bit of jet lag (and we have been) moving into a new house.” Gerrard will make his MLS debut for the Galaxy against San Jose on July 17.

“The game can’t come quick enough. We’ve got a fantastic team there and if I can add a bit to that I think the future can be very bright.” - Reuters

CHAMPIONS: MEDC celebrates triumph in the Ramadan Football Tournament. – Supplied photo

del Razek of PASI was honored as the best public paramedic for the tournament, while MEDC in addition to winning the cup, also won the title of the best scorer (Ishaq al

Mahrooqi). Mahmoud al Mashri won the best player award and Adil al Balush got the best team paramedic award. Suhail Bahwan Holding, on the other hand, got the

second place. The best goal keeper award went to Omar al Wahaibi, while Jasim al Balushi was rewarded for being the best coach. Jasim Al Mukhaini from MZEC won the

title of best administrative officer.

The tournament started in the first week of the holy month of Ramadan and witnessed an intense competition between eight teams - GPDC, PASI, PACI, EHC, MZEC, OETC, MEDC, and Suhail Bahwan Holding. The tournament consisted of 15 matches, 35 goals, 37 yellow cards and 4 red cards.

The success of the tournament is highlighted by the fact that it well attended by fans in large numbers. The organizing committee also arranged for prizes and daily draws for the audiences and the final winners were the MEDC fan, Ahmed al Ghaithi, and Musab al Omairi, a fan of GPDC. At the end of the tournament, Ali bin Mohammed al Raiesi, CEO of GPDC, praised the organizers for their technical and organizational skills this year and encouraged them to commit to this effort in coming years.

Fossati returns to Qatar DOHA: Uruguayan Jorge Fossati, who steered Al Sadd to the AFC Champions League title in 2011, has returned to the Qatar Stars League to take charge of Al Rayyan.

The 62-year-old, who had been in charge of Penarol in his homeland, was presented by the club’s officials late on Tuesday.

Fossati, a former goalkeeper, won all four domestic titles with Al Sadd during two successful stints and he had high ambitions for more glory with Al Rayyan, who won promotion to the top flight last season.

“I am happy to be back and coaching Al Rayyan, it is a privilege,” said Fossati, who has also managed Uruguay and Qatar as well as a host of clubs in South America and the Middle East. - Reuters

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LIFESTYLE

T H U R S DAY, J U LY 9, 2 0 1 5

Culture WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM

Story T. A. Ameerudheen Photographs Shabin E.

The Sidab Women’s Sewing Group has made a name for itself over the last 11 years as one of the best women’s groups in the Sultanate thanks to a host of initiatives aimed at transforming the lives of Omani women

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

LIFESTYLE

TOP BUYS AT SWSG Ą Calico bags embellished

with Omani wizar ĄŕŕTissue holder bags ĄŕŕPhone covers ĄŕŕLaptop bags ĄŕŕBottle bags ĄŕŕPurses

HOW TO REACH THE SIDAB WOMEN’S GROUP Drive towards Old Muscat from the Muttrah Corniche, pass Bait Al Zubair Museum and follow the road, turning right up the hill from the Bait Al Alam Palace roundabout.

Proceed up the hill towards Sidab and slow down as you reach the crest of the hill. When you see a mosque on your right, then turn left at the small entrance and park on the gravel road. The Sidab Women’s Sewing Group’s blue sign is hung on the side of the house, which is visible from the parking area

Address House 101, Lane 8905, Sidab, Muscat Telephone: +968 922 22271 E-mail: ladies@ladiesofsidab.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHABIN E. AND COURTESY OF THE SIDAB WOMEN’S SEWING GROUP

W

inds of change began to sweep the scenic fishing village of Sidab when six women joined hands to form a community group in 2004. The aim of the aptly named Sidab Women’s Sewing Group was to train local women in the craft of sewing to help them earn a regular income. Omani women enthusiastically jumped at the chance.

Undeterred by lack of infrastructure or funds, the group assembled at the local school in the afternoons, offering basic sewing lessons given by trained volunteers. The members quickly became proficient in manufacturing bags, purses and other hand-made products.

The group thrived, moving from the schoolhouse to a spacious villa and expanding their market beyond the geographical boundaries of the Sultanate.

“We had a humble beginning. We learnt a lot of things in the last 11 years. Our unique products made us famous all over the world. A famous restaurant chain in Italy placed orders for printed Calico bags with us recently, and we expect more clients from abroad,” says SWSG’s Director, Muna Al Zadjali.

Calico bags made with coloured wizars (traditional Omani undergarment wraps), embellished with unique Omani designs were the first SWSG products to hit the market.

They then added other items like tissue holder bags, phone covers, laptop bags, bottle bags, and purses.

“As many as 20 women from Sidab, Amerat, Mabella, and Muscat work for us. Our youngest member is 24 years old while the oldest member is 50. They work either from our office or from their homes. Our major clients include the Ministry of Tourism, top hotels, museums, corporations, and schools,” says Muna.

What makes the SWSG products attractive are the way they incorporate Omani design in unconventional ways. “We make bags (that

look) like kumas and dishdashas and wizars,” says Muna, who distributes the work among its members.

The opportunity to earn a living is really important to the women of the group, who take their work seriously.

“We hit the deadline set by set by the clients. Our members work hard and many of them take home OMR500 every month,” says Muna.

With a well established reputation for manufacturing quality handicrafts, the group has expanded into the tourism industry. SWSG offers the tourists an opportunity to visit its headquarters in Sidab, where they can buy hand-made products, taste traditional culinary delights and interact with Omani women.

“We wanted to tap the tourism potential of the country. Our package offers tourists a chance to get a good understanding about Oman’s culture and tradition,” says Muna.

“Home-made traditional Omani food is the biggest attraction of the

The group taught me to believe in my abilities.

We work like a team.

We never compromise on the quality of products Rahma

Sidab Women’s Sewing Group Member

package. We can host 20-member groups at a time,” she says.

Robby George, Manager (Tours & MICE), Eihab Travels, Muscat has been taking tourists to visit them in Sidab since 2008. “Linking them to tourism has been a great experience.

It can be developed into a perfect example of sustainable/responsible tourism as to how tourism can generate economic benefits to local people and enhance the well-being of host communities, while making positive contributions to the conservation of culture and heritage. It also helps create meaningful connections between visitors and the local people and leads to a greater understanding of local and social issues.”

Plan a visit to the Sidab Women’s Sewing Group to purchase unique handicrafts, taste traditional Omani cuisine, and learn more about the local culture and traditions of the Sultanate.

A MEMORABLE DAY The members of Sidab Women’s Sewing Group were in for a surprise when they met Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh during their visit to Muscat in November 2010. Attired in traditional Omani garb, the women presented hand-made products to the Queen and the Duke, who showed great interest, asking questions about the products

T H U R S DAY, JU LY 9, 2 0 1 5

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LIFESTYLE B O L LY W O O D

BUY

CULTURE UPDATE

WATCH

Spy in theatres now

Pencils engraved with classic rap lyrics

Irrfan to host ‘Amy’ screening

Irrfan Khan who is just back from Budapest after shooting for his Hollywood film Inferno, is all set to host an Indian screening of Asif Kapadia’s British documentary Amy on Thursday in Mumbai.

Irrfan shares a great bond with the Amy director and thus decided to take up as a host for the film’s premiere in India.

Every girl should own a Ralph and Russo: Sonal

Scan to watch a preview

DO

Sonal Chauhan is in attendance at the ongoing Paris Haute Couture Week on a special invitation from designers Tamara Ralph and Michael Russo, says every girl should own at least one piece designed by them. “Their clothes are elegant and classy, and wearing them makes me feel more beautiful,” Sonal was quoted as saying. The duo designers showcased their latest work at Fall Winter 2015-16 Haute Couture Collections.

Scan for purchase info

PLAY

John Abraham: Is he insecure?

Yoga at the InterContinental

Yemeni pop song Habib Galbi

Scan to watch the video

Scan for the schedule

Give Poor Children A Chance SALEH AL SHABANY

SO TO SPEAK What do you think?

Scan below to have your say on Facebook/TimesofOman

A

new car slowly pulled into the Muscat petrol station and Hamed, a young attendant, looked at it admiringly. He has the job of filling cars with fuel and he wishes he could afford to own one himself. Each day questions run through his mind as he wonders if owning a car or a home is in his future.

His job doesn’t pay much.

Hamed has been working as a filling station attendant for two years and he still earns only OMR350 a month.

Last week Hamed was given a lift by his former classmate. His friend had a nice car with a powerful stereo. His friend has made it, Hamed thought, as he listened to him talking about the job he landed working for a bank after completing a diploma course.

As they were chatting, Hamed began to feel the weight of all he was missing out on.

“I am buying a land.” His friend boasted, “to build a house.”

Hamed wished his friend good luck as they parted company.

That night, he reflected on his past and came to the conclusion that there was only one difference between he and his friend: His friend’s parents had been able to afford to send him to a private college.

Hamed’s parents were poor, and although he is only twenty he has to work to support them.

There are many young people like Hamed in Oman who are missing out because of their backgrounds.

Secondary school graduates do not stand a chance if they don’t make the required grades for state university and their parents can’t come up with the fees required for higher education.

It is understandable that private colleges need to charge parents, because they are in the business of making money. However, I was looking at the number of students in each college and I noticed that many of the classes do not have enough students enrolled, despite the fact that there are enough teachers.

Why should they run classes half empty when they could in-

It is never too late to doing something better. Without a doubt, we can do something if the private sector gets together to work it out

vite the children of poor parents to fill them up? Perhaps these institutions should consider reserving a few places every year for children whose parents cannot afford their fees. Or, perhaps private schools and private businesses could work together to offer scholarships.

The private sector should get together to form an education

fund for the underprivileged.

The fund could run like a charity, but private business people would have to take the first step.

All the flourishing business houses in Oman owe their success to private patronage. They also owe it to the government for its support in the form of soft loans and subsidies. It is time the private sector returned the favour. By supporting the education of the disadvantaged, entrepreneurs could give something back to society.

It is never too late for the likes of Hamed. He could still pursue his dreams if given the chance to doing something better for himself and his country. Without a doubt, we can do something about it if the private sector gets together to work it out.

Sure, we need petrol station attendants and waiters, but we are a long way off from filling the specialised positions in Oman. In a prosperous country like ours, so full of opportunities, we should not allow poor families to miss out just because they are poor.

Actor John Abraham, who shares screen space with many established actors including Anil Kapoor, Nana Patekar and Paresh Rawal in Welcome Back, says he is “not insecure”.

He also credits director Anees Bazmi for his performance in the film.

“I am not insecure, I can do it,” said John at the trailer launch of the film.

Welcome Back is John’s first film after the critically acclaimed Madras Cafe.

His home production Vicky Donor was a success at box office as well.

When asked about his views on being a producer, the 42-year-old said: “I think every film is important, but I don’t stress on one particular film, whether it will work or not.

My job is to perform and that’s what I mean to do. I make films, I enjoy doing that, one year, two year, three years, I don’t really care. I am not insecure and I know I can do it”.

John says that he had a “great chemistry” with all the actors in Welcome Back, a sequel to 2007 laugh riot Welcome which starred Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif. “I have worked with Anil Kapoor in Shootout in Wadala and with Nana sir, I did Taxi 9211.

However, the actor said he wants to credit nobody but director Anees Bazmi for his performance in the film. Welcome Back also features Shruti Hassan, Dimple Kapadia and Naseeruddin Shah. - IANS

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MUSCAT GRAND MALL Jurassic World (3D) (Action/Adventure) (PG12) Cast: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard 9:15, 11:00 pm Gold Class: 9:00 pm

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BURAIMI I Am Soldier- 2D (Action, Thriller, War) (PG) Cast: Tom Hughes, Noel Clarke, Alex Reid 9:45PM

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Arrival Operating time days

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05:30 05:30 05:30

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Quriyat Sur Jaalan

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Daily Daily Daily

Sur Quriyat Ruwi

06:45 08:30 10:00

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

06:30 06:30 08:00 13:00 13:00 16.00 16.00

07:00 07:00 13:30 13:00 13:00 13:00 17:00

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TO SINAW (ROUTE 52) 17:30

Sinaw

Nizwa Yanqul

20:50

Daily

Nizwa Al Araqi

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

Sur Sur

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Fahud Yibal

Daily Daily

Salalah Marmul Salalah Salalah

10:30 11:15

Daily Daily

Marmul

20:00 20:30 23:30 07:40

Daily Daily Daily Daily

Dubai

16:50

Daily

Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai

08:40 11:00

07:00

15:40 15:40

Nizwa Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

06:00 14:30

Ruwi Ruwi

10:45 19:00

Daily Daily

12:30 12:30

Fahud Ruwi

13:15 17:30

Daily Daily

07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

Ruwi Marmul Ruwi Ruwi

19:50 13:15 22:30 07:30

06:00

Marmul

16:30

Daily

Daily

15:00

Salalah

07:00

Daily

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

07:30 07:30 13:00 13:00 15:30 15:30

Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

10:50 13:40 16:15 19:10 18:45 21:35

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

TO DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

FROM DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH/SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

07:00 07:00 07:00

16:00 16.00 16.00

Fujairah Sharjah Dubai

11.45 13.30 14.00

ASHMI SANKAR July 10, 2007

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06:00 06:00

Oru Second Class Yathra (2D) (PG12) (Comedy, Thriller) Cast: Vineeth, Nikki Galrani, Chemban Jose, Nedumudi Venu 9:00 pm

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TO SALALAH -MARMUL (ROUTE 100)

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101) 06:00

10:25

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (ROUTE 62)

TO MARMUL-SALALAH (ROUTE 100) 07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

Ruwi

TO SUR (ROUTE 55) 12:00 18:45

TO FAHUD - YIBAL (ROUTE 62) 06:30 06:30

07:00

Pressure (2D) (PG12) (Thriller) Cast: Danny Huston, Matthew Goode, Joe Cole 9:00, 11:45 pm

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10:20 12:30

TO SUR (ROUTE 55) 07:30 14:30

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42 34 Minimum

The Hoarder (2D) (15+) (Horror, Thriller) Cast: Mischa Barton, Robert Knepper, Charlotte Salt 11:15 pm

Premam (Mal) (Comedy) Cast: Nivin Pauly, Anupama Parameshwaran and Sai Pallavi 10:00 pm at Cinema Main Baahubali (Telugu) Action, Adventure) (12+) Cast: Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, Anushka Shetty 8:00 & 11:00pm at Cinema Main From Friday Papanasam (Tamil) (Drama/Family/ Thriller) – PG12 Cast: Kamal Haasan, Gautami Tadimalla, Kalabhavan Mani 9:30 pm at Cinema 2 Oru Second Class Yatra (Mal) (Comedy / Drama) (PG12) Cast: Vineeth, Nikki Galrani, Chemban Jose, Nedumudi Venu 9:45 pm at Cinema 3 Laila O Laila (Mal) (Romance / Thriller) Cast: Mohanlal, Amala Paul, Sathyaraj, Joy Mathew 9.45 pm at Cinema 4 Premam (Mal) (Comedy) Cast: Nivin Pauly, Anupama Parameshwaran and Sai Pallavi 9.45 pm at Cinema 4 From Friday

WITH LOVE

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54)

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54) 08:00 08:00

08:55 Daily 11:40 Daily 20:20 Daily via Ibri 14:55 Daily 17:40 Daily 19:20 Daily 22:15 Daily

SALALAH I Am Soldier (2D) (PG) (Action, Thriller, War ) Cast: Tom Hughes, Noel Clarke, Alex Reid Timings: 9:30: 11:00 pm

(Programmes are subject to change)

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52)

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54) 14:30 14:30

Sohar Ruwi Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

Daily Daily Daily

STAR CINEMA Film information 24791641 / 24786776 Website: www.isurf.co.om

Pressure – 2D (Thriller) (PG12) Cast: Danny Huston, Matthew Goode, Joe Cole 9:30, 11:15 pm

WEATHER

TO MUSCAT (RUWI) Arrival Operating time days

Oru Second Class Yathra - 2D (PG12) Comedy | Thriller Cast: Vineeth, Nikki Galrani, Chemban Jose, Nedumudi Venu 9:15 pm

The Pact II – 2D (Horror, Mystery, Thriller) (15+) Cast: Caity Lotz, Camilla Luddington, Scott Michael Foster 9:15, 11:15 pm

The Pact II - 2D (15+) Horror| Mystery | Thriller Cast: Caity Lotz, Camilla Luddington, Scott Michael Foster 9:00, 11:00 pm

(PG12) (Comedy, Thriller)

Daily Daily Daily

Afghanistan Algeria Bahrain Bangladesh Brazil Brunei China Cyprus Egypt France Germany India Indonesia Iran Iraq Italy Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya South Korea Kuwait

24698 791/4 24605 593 24 605 074/133 24 698 660 24640100 24 603533 24 696782 24 699815 24 600 982/411 24681 800 24835000 24684500 2469 1050 24 696 944/7 24603642 24693727 24 601 028 24692760/1/3 24 692418 24 697664 24 691490 24 699628

Lebanon Libya Malaysia Morocco Nepal Netherlands Pakistan Palestine Philippines Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Senegal Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Switzerland Syria Tanzania Thailand Tunisia Turkey UAE United Kingdom United States Yemen

24 693208 24603466 24698329/643 24696152/3 24696177 24603706 24603439 24601312 24605335 24 691 153/2/4 24602894 24601705 24694139 24697977 24647300 24691101 24697841/2 24697875 24603267 24697904 24601 174 24 602684/5 24603486 24697050/1/2 24400000 24609000 24643400 24600815

PHARMACIES Round the clock Al Hashar Pharmacy, Ruwi 24783334

Appolo Medical Centre, Hamriya Muscat Pharmacy, Ruwi Salalah Atlas Pharmacy, Ghubra Muscat Region Apollo, Al Hamriya Muscat, A Seeb Market Muscat, Al Khuwair Muscat, Al Hail South Dhofar Region Muscat, Al Nahdha Road, Salalah

24782666 24702542 23291635; 24503585 24787766 24421691 24485740 24537080

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 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

T H U R S DAY, JU LY 9, 2 0 1 5

C11

LIFESTYLE

Public Art, Public Good

GHAWI BAZAAR

SARAH MACDONALD story and photographs

BUY LOCAL: UPSCALE HALWA Omani halwa, a jelly-like sweet made of wheat starch, sugar, and ghee, along with flavourings like saffron, cardamom, nuts, and rose water, is the ultimate symbol of Omani hospitality. The ancient treat makes a perfect gift, especially when the packaging makes it look as good as it tastes. tast

WHAT

O

ne Saturday each month The Walk mall at The Wave becomes a flurry of activity as artists set up canvases and paper on easels, listen to guest artists talk about their work, and then spend a few hours painting in the public space.

Hosted by Paragon Arts, the events are an initiative started by arts aficionados Louai Alasfahani from Paragon International and his friend Rasha Sawas as a way to help engage Omani society with the arts. Visitors can watch the artists work, interact with them, or even participating themselves, as some eager children have begun to do.

“When you have a passion for art you have to live it. How can we do that? Let’s make more money from the business and put it into the arts,” says Diana Dimitrova, from Paragon International.

The events began in February 2014 under the name Synergy Art Oman and were held at the Omani Society for Fine Arts. The events usually involved musicians who played while the artists painted. Guests would listen to an artist give a talk about his or her work and then spend a few hours painting. In September the events went public when the venue moved to The Walk mall at The Wave, in full view of shoppers and restaurant customers.

Diana feels it’s important to en-

One of the famous Omani halwa brands, Al Hosni Halwa uses a secret family recipe that has been passed down through generations. They offer 10 different varieties of the sweet, sold in lavish gift boxes, along with other high-end confections that use halwa in new ways, such as chocolate covered halwa and halwa stuffed cookies.

They use high quality ingredients, including saffron from Iran and smoky rose water from Jebel Akhdar. courage artists to get engaged with the public. It’s great exposure for the artists, whose names and work becomes better known, and a few artists have even sold some of their work thanks to the public painting events. It also helps the community understand and appreciate art more.

“Art is important in all our lives, in our daily life. It’s beauty and we have to be surrounded by beauty,” says Diana.

The events are a wonderful opportunity to learn from others and interact with the public, who don’t often get to see artists at work. Fine arts are fairly new to Oman so these public events can encourage Omanis to develop an interest in arts.

Omani painter Tahira Fida has been both a participant and a presenter at the events. “It’s a good idea to go to the mall. Slowly, slowly we need to bring people into the art society and get them involved in it. Some people are interested to meet us and have a word with us. I just hope one day before I die I will hear an Omani family say, ‘We have a holiday so let’s go and see an art exhibition’,” says Tahira.

Speaking about her art to other artists gave Tahira the opportunity to engage with a community of like-minded people. She used technical terms about painting with confidence that her audience understood her, and was asked meaningful questions.

WHERE The shop and factory of Al Hosni Omani Sweets is in Mawaleh, just past the Al Mazoun Mosque. Call for directions (9988 6608).

WHO Murshid Ali Al Hosni inherited the secret recipe from his forefathers, who made their first halwa over one thousand years ago.

HOW MUCH Halwa in plain packaging is priced between OMR2OMR6. Small gift boxes start at OMR12, while a one-kilogram box of halwa in a Khanjar-shaped dish with cups and spoons goes for OMR35.

Have a favourite Omani product or shop?

Tell us about it: ameerudheen@timesofoman.com PHOTOS: A.R. RAJKUMAR

Artist Tarini Agarwal, an Indian expat who lives in Oman, says the Paragon Art events have bought the artist community together. She admits that when the events were moved from the Omani Society for Fine Arts to the public venue at The Wave, it was a bit uncomfortable painting in public, but she soon got used to it. She says painting among other artists and learning from them is highly motivating.

Tarini has also seen the impact the events have on the community because over time children have begun to join in, learning about art from artists themselves.

“The joy of painting along with other artists is so creatively stimulating; every time I learn something or share my work with other artists. The biggest attraction is the interaction with senior Omani artists, who willingly guide and show their own techniques.

One doesn’t have to be an artist of standing to benefit from these inputs,” Tarini concluded.

—sarah@timesofoman.com The next Paragon Arts event will be organised after Eid Al Fitr. For more information contact Diana at Paragon Arts (9410 2102)

HAUTE COUTURE A/W 2016

Syrian designer Rami Al Ali returns to Paris to showcase his couture collection DESIGNER Rami Al Ali has returned to Paris to showcase his Autumn/Winter 2015/16 couture collection. The Syrian designer’s eighth consecutive presentation in the French capital, the twenty-piece collection drew its inspiration from the iconic 40s and 50s, re-imagining silhouettes with graphic interpretations of art deco.

Echoing the timeless elegance of Hollywood’s golden era, fabric manipulation was key as stiff boucle and satin de chez were deconstructed, modernised with regal capes and sharp cuts which contrasted with vertically draped skirts in soft muslin.

Befitting Al Ali’s signature feminine aesthetic, full length gowns

artfully cascaded and shorter cocktail dresses were moulded to curved contours, whilst coquettish pleats and flourishes projected from hips, reminiscent of the quirky elegance embodied by classic muse Audrey Hepburn.

Luxurious fabrics swept around the body, offset with structural elements and peppered with geometric beadwork, lending the collection a sumptuous yet functional feel and emphasising the raw beauty of the feminine figure.

Resonating with bygone eras, muted pastels shades of rose pink, powder blue and dove grey revealed a vintage inspired colour palette, which contrasted with hues of beige and champagne to bring contemporary el-

ements of freshness. Reflecting modern sensibilities, Al Ali’s innovative edit demonstrates how traditional techniques and iconic shapes can be elevated through the art of couture.

Power of fashion Rami Al Ali was born in Deir ez-Zor, Syria, to father Ghassan, an architect, and mother Sameeha, a graduate in Middle Eastern history.

Being the only boy of five children, Al Ali took an early interest in style and fashion. Fascinated by the dramatic transformation of his sisters – in both appearance and confidence — after stepping into a glamorous dress, he was mesmerised by the power of fashion.

Ali knew he had to think big to succeed so travelled to the United Arab Emirates to gain valuable international experience within the prestigious fashion houses.

He quickly gained respect from the industry, resulting in an immediate, loyal client base, which ultimately led to the creation of the Rami Al Ali label in 2000.

Al Ali’s ultimate breakthrough came in 2009, when his Spring/ Summer couture collection graced the runway at Rome’s AltaRoma couture week. This was the first time Al Ali engaged professionally with the European fashion media.

His success was further cemented by being named as one of the top 50 most influential Arabs

by The Middle East Magazine.

C12

THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

LIFESTYLE

D

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M T H U R S DAY, J U LY 9, 2 0 1 5

SECTION

CONNEC T H E D A I LY G U I D E

RENT

D2

VACANCY

D4

CARGO

D7

D2

T H U R S D AY, J U LY 9, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

FOR RENT

FOR RENT

2 BHK commercial / residential flat at Honda Road.

Contact: 99342733/99795241 Small old house for rent Al Ghobrah.

Contact 95112461 1BHK, Darsait, walking distance to ISM , neat and clean building, ground floor, OMR 260/- per month rent Call IQRAR on 99076557

Building In Rusail Industrial ŶĞĂƌ ƚŽ ŵŝĂŶƟƚ KŵĂŶ comprising a store divisible area 266 sq. meters.

The building includes Studios ĂŶĚ ƌŽŽŵƐ ǁŝƚŚ ĚŝīĞƌĞŶƚ ƐŝnjĞ ƐƵŝƚĂďůĞ ĨŽƌ ŽĸĐĞƐ Žƌ residence.

Preferably to be leased to one company.

3000 sq mtrs Industrial landß, in Barka Sanaiya, with electricity 400KW, shed, staff accommodation and office. Ready to start any kind of factory. Contact 99384255.

3 Bedroom flat in Wadi Kabeer and 2 bedroom villa in Sidab- Muscat.

Contact: 95755953

Mob + 968 96177505

Spacious 2- BR flat in MBD. Contact 99713489

1BHK, 2BHK, 3BHK new flat available at Mabela in front of Modern English School Contact: 96239126

Deluxe 1, 2 BHK flats in Darsait, AL Khuwair 1deal for office & residence. Contact 99369081 /99142314

For rent office CBD flat in Ruwi.

Contact: 92820734 / 95345909

4 bed room flat at Al Hail South.

Contact: 99207840

Flat at Darsait. Contact 99326879

Residential /commercial 2 B/R near Medical College Bausher from Owner. Contact: 92158031

Three new three bedrooms flats with servants rooms Al Khuwair 39.

Contact: 99207840

Villa AL Ghobrah, 6 bedroom 1200/R.O. Contact: 99340055/97557555

256 sq mtrs restaurant for rent in Plaza Hotel, Walja Ruwi.

Contact 99326339

4 BHK single villa in Al Khuwair.

Contact: 97616158

3BHK, 3 bathrooms, 2 balconies, nr. Al Hassan W/ Kabir R.O 350/-.

Contact: 99384640

1BHK close to ISWKG Wadi Kabir Bldg # 1690 R.O 250/-.

Contact: 99476728

Flats shops for rent in Ruwi MBD area Mumtaz area.

Contact: 97293708 / 92433127

3 BHK Flat in Azaiba.

Contact 99792181

Fully furnished 3 BHK accommodation with all spacious rooms in a villa at Darsait near ISD. Contact: 9526 5289 / 9604 8422 Furnished room for rent at Al Khuwair R.O 225/- for family only.

Contact: 99251975

2BHK at Al Khodh, 2BHK at Wadi Kabir 2 room, 1hall, dining, 2 bathrooms. Contact: 99224748 / 99332297

Studio Flat in Ruwi.

Contact 99792181 1 BHK Flat in Honda Road (Ruwi).

Contact 99792181

Store in Wadi Kabir 1900 SQM. Contact: 99473751 / 91471067

1 & 2 BHK flat in Al Khuwair.

Contact 99792181

1BHK Darsait R.O 225/-.

Contact: 92144045

Labour Camp + Store in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 99792181

1BHK Wadi Kabeer, RO 225/-.

Contact: 92144045

Flat with A/C in the South Al Mabella close to the Mosque Al Tawab consists of 2 rooms, hall, 2 bathrooms and kitchen. Contact: 99388995

2BHK Darsait R.O 300/-.

Contact: 92144045 2BHK Ghubra R.O 250/-. Contact: 92144045 1,2,3 BHK. Contact: 97799175 2 bedrooms apartments for rent in Al Khuwair and Ghubra. Call Yellow Bird property on 24615375 / 97137989 or visit www.muscat-realty.com

Good flat villa type at Mobeileah Senaiya. Contact : 99879872

1 Villa & 3 big Flats of 2/3 BHK with hall, Kitchen & ACs Al Khoudh 6, Close to express way, from owner. Tel 97600322 alnehang@gmail.com 1BHK with A/C Mumtaz. R.O 250/-.

Contact 97799175 Fabulous AC flat at Al Khoud 3 bedrooms, hall and kitchen RO 270/- for rent. Contact: 99334699 2 BHK flat in Al Ansab with split A/C. RO.250/- Contact – 93191111 2BHK near Oman house behind Khimji, H.O. Contact: 95865686 506sqm space with mezzanine available for rent in AL Wadi Al Kabir, Suitable for carpentry / Auto workshop and / or electrical shop interested parties may.

Contact: 24703981

For rent in Qantab European style 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, Guest toilet, fully equipped modern kitchen, covered car park for two cars, approximately 150 meters from the beach. For enquiries, please Contact: Yasser at 92606005

ACC. AVAILABLE

Villa for rent in Al Khuwair 33, 8 bedrooms & 5 bathrooms with parking area near Taimur Mosque.

Contact: 99366624

Rooms available with separate bathroom for executive bachelors in azaiba near al meera hyper market.

Gsm 99053844

Office space at Alasfoor Plaza Qurum. Contact : 24566217 /24564686

Single room with sharing kitchen available for executive bachelor near Saud Bahwan Residency Complex, Wadi Kabir. Contact 99024362, 93166353.

Flat in South Al Hail, 2 bedrooms, Majlis, 2 bathrooms, kitchen RO 250/-. Contact 93221474 Flat in Ruwi Mumtaz 2 BHK RO 300 or 1 BHK 250 RO. Contact 98588240 2BHK with split AC near PDO Gate no -2 at Qurum. Contact: 94057023 Luxury 3 BHK flat in Al Wattaya with split A/C & private parking.

RO.500/- Contact – 93191111 2 bed rooms, kitchen, toilet & car park in Al Khuwair R.O 200/- .

Contact 95154331 Deluxe furnished / unfurnished flats Qurum. Contact: 24566217 / 24564686 Bath attached room for rent Al Khuwair. Contact 99743569

New building in Wadi Kabir, 2 bedroom flats. Contact: 99313274

For rent if require flats for rent in Wadi Kabir please send me messages through Whatsapp.

Contact: 99376454

Commercial 3 BHK flat in Al Ghobra 18 Nov Street. RO 700/Contact 93191111

3 bed room flat near ONTC Ruwi.

Contact: 99653336

Flat for rent in Mabellah 8th.

Contact: 97147240

2 BHK flat in Al Azaiba near sea, with split A/C. RO.340/- # 93191111

Six bed room twin villa Al Athaiba.

Contact: 99207840

2BHK with split AC at Al Khuwair 33. Contact: 94057023

Villa of 5 BHK in Al Ansab with split A/C. RO.650/- Contact – 93191111

ACC. WANTED Required a room in Darsait / WadiKabir /Ruwi area. # 95405033

ACC. AVAILABLE Fully furnished 1BHK with all household items in Darsait near Lulu on monthly Basis. Contact : 99378397/99493500 Single furnished room, attached bathroom in Wadi Kabir.

Contact: 92155261 Rooms for rent in Seeb for couple / single/ working ladies.

Contact: 96996938 Independent rooms in Qurum / Al Hail. Contact 95529970 Full furnished single /sharing room for Exe. bachelor at Rex Road near Kamat with WIFI available.

Contact 92873832 Furnished room for Indian couples or family near Honda Road (Walja).

Contact 98952904

ACC. AVAILABLE Available sharing accommodation for non cooking Executive bachelor near Indian School Al Ghoubra with Keralite family. Contact 91697955 Furnished bedroom with separate bathroom and kitchen on sharing in Darsait for Ex- bachelors.

Contact : 95376096 Fully furnished room for a decent expatriate. independent kitchen, bathroom in Wadi Adai.

Contact 96243086 at 5p.m.

For sharing accommodation room with toilet attached, kitchen sharing near clean building next to main road near Indian school Wadi Kabir, Indian couples family or bachelor.

Contact: 95345537 / 94672007 Furnished room attached bath for lady in Wadikabir (Mars Hypermarket) – 95941515 Furnished room with attached bathroom in W/K. Contact: 97167857 Sharing for non cooking executive bachelor in CBD area WIFI free, Advance deposit.

Contact: 95094504 Fully furnished room in Ruwi for non cooking ex- bachelor.

Contact 94412557 A/C room with separate balcony and big wardrobe available for non-cooking bachelor in CBD area (near Stars cinema). Rent OMR125 inclusive of electricity and water charges. Contact 96568110

FOR LADIES Hair dressing, facial massage & other beauty treatment for women.

Contact: 94689448

T H U R S DAY, J U LY 9, 2 0 1 5

D3

DAILY GUIDE

NRI

3 cents plots-(12nos.) at walkable distance from Kovalm Jn.,Trivandrum,Lorry site near to main road-Bus route, for immediate sale. 3 cents- 15 lakhs only.

Call 00968-95036240, 0091-9961034763 or email- cfhd1@ yahoo.com Centre For Housing DevelopmentTrivandrum: Group of senior and retired Engineers and Architects provides service in the field of Design and Supervision of buildings in Kerala.For appointments, E-mail your site location and building requirements to cfhd@ymail.com. or call 00968-95036240, 0091-9961034763.

38 cents plot with 2BHK house by the river bank in Thrissur Dist. near Irinjalakuda (Karavanoor).

Contact: 99347089 500 acre agricultural land suitable for rubber plantation for sale in Ratnagiri Maharashtra. price 2 lakh per acre, rubber board approved land, minimum purchase 20 acre.

We provide care taking by experienced Malayalee team for your plantation. please call , prasad 95760790

FOR SALE Equipped kitchen showroom company for sale at Ghubrah, Muscat.

6 visa available, Contact owner at 96303747 House hold items. Contact: 97094797 Total Station Survey Instrument S3 2” / Servo/ Trimble access bundle - batch 9101025 – not used.

Contact: 94282782 / 95425747 Coffee shop at Liwa main road.

Contact : 99515419 Sale & repair of Tyres 315/80 R 22.5 & 12.00 R 24. Contact: 97477128

6 bedroom, 6 bath rooms, sitting & dining villa at Qurum.

Contact: 99342733 Brand new 4 BHK plus Maids room in Barka, 2 Kms from Lulu.

Contact: 99347089 Turkish MDF door with frame for sale, size 210 x 100 Price: RO 75/-.

Contact: 95899296 / 92141514 Well established medium size construction company for sale.

Equipments, 30 employees & ongoing projects. Serious buyers only 99412020

BUYING/SELLING All type of car scanner available easy car diagnostic for professional and self use Authorize LAUNCH and Autel dealer. GSM:92393972 www.omancartools.com

MOTOR VEHICLE FOR SALE

Used furniture & Electronic items, office & house. Contact: 99834373

BUSINESS

SITUATION WANTMATRIMONIAL

Touareg 2011 Oman cars, 114000 KM, silver, 8500/-R.O. Contact: 92857111

Indian Kerala male 31 years Hindu Ezhava working in Muscat looking for life partner.

Contact: 99893119

Toyota Prado 2008, Toyota Corolla 2009, Honda CRV 2009, low mileage available at Bombay Medical, behind Ruwi Police Station. #99326339 Prado ,2012. Contact : 99336093

FOR SALE

Peugeot 206-2007 Model, expat driven. Contact 99209285

Salon for sale in Muttrah next to Muttrah Health Center 2/500 -R.O .

Contact: 99012807

AVAILABLE

Wall papers, grass carpets sale & fixing. Contact: 99834373 / 97102699 Commercial land for sale 3000 m in quriyat road main high way can use as a petrol station license available asking price 350,000 For more information please call on 99070701 with out name

New company seek partnership.

Contact: 96996938 General Investors.

Gsm-99674870

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

2013 NISSAN MAXIMA FOR SALE. Single Owner,10 Months full cover Insurance (UAE & Oman), 15,000 Km only. Intrested buyers can Call/ Whatsapp on 95692099 Sportage, 2013. Contact:99336093 Land Cruiser 2012. Contact: 99336093 2 Prime Movers Man 2008 with 40 ton petrol tank each working at the moment in Al Maha. Price OMR 35 Thousand each. Contact 97000155 or 92688692

LOST Noura Mohamed Mohamed Ahmed Bekhit has lost Egyptian Passport No. 540107. Finder please handover to ROP.

D4

T H U R S D AY, J U LY 9, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

SITUATION WANTED

SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE

DRIVER

Indian male 22 yrs B. Com Graduate 1 year exp in Accounts, currently on visit visa. Looking for suitable job. Contact 94341848 / Email – mohdhaji7272@gmail.com

Heavy duty driver with PDO license, 5 yrs Intl. exp. Contact: 95546585

Finance Manager, CPA, with more than 15 yrs. of experience in GCC. Fully knowledgeable in Finance, General & Management Accounting .

NOC available. Contact 96209331 Sudanese Accountant seeking job in Nizwa state experience 10 years 3 years in Saudi Arabia, 7 yrs in Sudan. Contact : 97796394 / 94003247 Indian Accountant: Male, M com, 7 Yrs experience in Accounts up to finalization, having knowledge of ERP, Tally, seeks suitable placment.Contact 93950138 Email: lijinrajan123@gmail.com

ADMIN

ADMIN

ENGINEER

MEDICAL

SALES / MARKETING

Vacancy for lady Receptionist at Sinaw Hala Medical Center - Fluency in English and Arabic Omani or non Omani. Contact: 25524180 / 91362141 Email: halamedicalgroup@gmail.com

Fire and Safety Technician with NIFE or equivalent Diploma holder preference to those having D/L. Send CV to visionansara@gmail.com

Required MOH licensed lady G.P Dentist Pharmacist, Asst Pharmacist for Salalah based pharmacy and clinic. Contact: 92732491 Email: clinicrecruitment2015@gmail.com

Required male or female candidate with 5 years experience in renting of properties. Interested candidates may please mail to alqurumprop@gmail.com

Urgently Required: Administration with an experience minimum in 3 years in building construction, required immediately join and MUST have NOC.Apply, fax 00968–24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com.

ACCOUNTANT Urgently required Accountant B. Com with 4-6 years Gulf experience in construction field and good knowledge in FOCUS accounting software. Send CV : pccllcoman@gmail.com Urgently required a part – time female Accountant fluent in English with 2-3 years experience in Tally.

Email: mhca@mhabibgroup.com Fax: 24564459 Urgently required female accountant with an experience minimum 3years Email CV on cv.hrcharity@gmail.com Urgently required Junior Accountant. Please send CV: hr.azatllc@gmail.com

BEAUTY Required Beautician for a parlor in Ghubra. Contact: 94241385 / 97244766 Wanted experienced Beautician for beauty parlor in Al Amerat 3.

Contact: 91107337

CATERING Chinese/ Arab/ continental cook & helper wanted. Contact 95529970 Required experience Waiter / Supervisor/ Juice maker, Shawarma maker. Contact: 95395378 Traditional Omani restaurant requires: Waitress for restaurant.

Delivery man with bike license preferred. Interested candidates send CV to: Email: omanhari@yahoo.com Contact: 95892831

DESIGNER Designer required for wooden joinery company with excellent knowledge of 3D Max, 2D Autocad.

Contact: 94249047 Email: mfqazi@gmail.com

DRIVER Driver required for a Company, 2 years experience. Visa available.

Contact 24479922

ENGINEER Required Civil Engineer (buildings) Oman experience 5+ years, BOQ+ Tendering + site supervision.

Contact: 95218004 Email: alhilalint@yahoo.com Construction Company in Oman urgently requires the following: B.Sc Civil Engineer, minimum 3-5 yrs Gulf experience. Civil Site Foreman, minimum 5 yrs experience with operating knowledge of Tally.

Please Email CV ; applyforoman@gmail.com

Required MEP Diploma Engineer specialized in building maintenance.

Fluent in English and computer holding valid Omani driving license & NOC. Send CV to Email: info@alrabiyahrealestate.com to arrange interview Urgently Required: Civil Engineer with an experience minimum in 5 years in building construction, MUST have NOC and immediately join. Apply, fax 00968–24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com Construction Company in Oman urgently requires following candidates: BE Civil Engineer, minimum 3-5 years gulf experience & Civil site foreman, minimum 5 years gulf experience, diploma not required.

Email: applyforoman@gmail.com Leading Construction Company requires Quantity Surveyor (QS) with 4-6 yrs Gulf experience. Send your CV : qsmuscat2015@gmail.com (NOC required).

Required a part time steel Structural Design Engineer for a reputed steel fabrication company in Muscat. Interested person may Contact : 99451158 Looking for a Sales Engineer (Mechanical) with 2 to 3 year relevant experience in the Oman market with driving license .

Please forward your CV to : mbdeast@gmail.com Required for Engineering consultancy office a Supervision Staff for road project at Ibri region: Civil Engineer (B.Sc) RE with 12 years experience & Land Surveyor (Diploma) with 8 years experience.

Please email CV & certificate copy to alsarh@omantel.net.om

EDUCATION English medium private school in Sinaw urgently required English & Science teachers. Send CV : saminternationalschoolsinaw@ gmail.com Contact: 98927055

IT IND male WEB developer 5 yrs exp B.Tech (comp science) PHP, HTML MYSQL Java script CSS. Contact: 95990529 Email: renjith341@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Required urgently experienced Gardener and building care taker.

Contact: 99231676 Well established company in selling chocolate, Arabian sweets and fresh flowers, opening ITS first branch in Muscat seeking: 1- sweets and chocolates Sales man 2- flower arranger (Asian/ Filipino Nationality) Contact: 94490011 Email: labelleoman@gmail.com A company from UAE require 2 merchandisers in retail food supply, store keeper with English and invoicing experience. Email: yesterdaysun@hotmail.com Mason, C.C.T.V, Technician, Electrician cum Plumber.

Contact - 99383044

Vacancy Lab Technician for inquiry or send CV zmczahara@yahoo.com Contact 24571094 Fax: 24571097 Required Prometric passed nurse to join clinic from end August.

Contact: 99352793

MANAGER Urgently Required: Male – handles overall store operations of the Supermarket, Prior Experience a MUST, knowledgeable in MSOffice. Send CV to chanda@dolphin-oman.com or fax to 244-92718.

SKILLED Urgently required experienced sub-contractors for Marble Flooring / Marble Cladding / Grinding / Carving works. Contact 92884177 / 99485595 Urgently required a silk Screen printer with good knowledge and release letter or NOC. Contact: 93280288 or send CV to albayanstamps@gmail.com

SECRETARIAL & OFFICE Secretary (Female), Experience: Minimum 1 - 2 years. Forward CV to hr@barikgroup.com Required Office Assistant 160+25+Acc, Contact 99454425

SALES / MARKETING Tyre / Spare parts outdoor Sales Executive with experience required driving license and NOC. Send CV to ptf_25@hotmail.com Urgently required female Sales Promoters individual with pleasant personality, excellent communications & presentation skills & experience in selling perfumes cosmetics and skincare products would be preferred. Send your CV & details with recent photograph to info@mawaridoman.com or fax no 24127484/ Tel: 24127485 Wanted part time female Sales Executive with D/L for a reputed company. Contact 94688874 A leading marketing company is looking for outdoor Sales Executives on part time or full time basis in Salalah. Contact 92760281 / 96436719 Looking for Outdoor Salesman for heavy equipment spare parts.

Contact - 93292015, Email: mail.om@gulfcenter.co Required Sales man - 1 Person Qualification. Gulf Experienced - Minimum 5 Years with Oman Driving Licence Language - English Education:- Any Degree Further Contact : Mr. Abdul Hameed Nashabat - Mobile No: 97414307 and -92807399 amn@yaqeeneng.com Urgently required Sales and Marketing Executive for Graphic designing company. Contact: 96727631 mail: smartgraphic518@gmail.com Minimum 2 years of experience with valid gulf light driving license interested candidates please Contact: 99222086 /98585851

TOURS Required exp. employee for travel agency in Saham.

Contact :93655939 / 92900021

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED ED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Indian CA with 15 yrs exp working as Finance Head of MNC looking for Job. NOC Available. 94047434 Accountant, Indian male, 10 years experience in Oman. Can do upto finalization and knowledge of Tally ERP9 can be joined immediately with NOC. Contact: 94134085 Email: muscatoman95@yahoo.com Married lady 25 years, Master Accounts having 5 years experience in Indian looking for full / part time job. Contact: 95140332 /93223050 family visa holder.

Contact 95140332 Indian male, well experienced in Accounts and Admin looking for a suitable vacancy.

Contact : 98717938 Indian female, M.Com Finance, DCA, 3 years experience in Accounts / finance& knowledge in ERP & Tally seeking suitable position in corporate finance / banking / consulting.

Email: prapullasuvarna@gmail.com Contact: 96953705 now in family visa.

Indian male 2+yrs oman exp in HR. joing immediatly. release available.

Contact :93671437 Indian Female MBA, 3 years experience in Admin MIS, Family Visa.

Contact 98234427, jkjsmith01@gmail.com A Lady with 5 years experience in HR/Admin is looking for suitable job and can join immediately.

Contact : 94465835 Indian female with 10 yrs of experience in HR/Banking/Operations seeks a suitable placement.

Can be contacted on 98919015 or sherianne.coelho@gmail.com

AUTO CAD/DRAUGHTSAutoCAD Draughts man seeks Employment. Contact: 91889873 Electrical draftsman AutoCAD switch gear & MEP control panel 7 years experience Qatar. Contact: 92546203/96228100

ADVERTISING Looking for JOB. I have done BS Hons in Mass communication and media, Specialised in Public Relations and Advertising. I have upto 1 year of experience. Immediate Available. Open for any JOB. Sultan Zafar #97034134

CATERING Indian male 38 yrs Senior Chef de.

De. Party pastry exp 15 yrs in five star hotels, 10 yrs exp Oman get NOC looking for job in hotel & bakery.

Contact: 96460519

DESIGNER

Indian male, B.Com, Accountant, 10 yrs in Oman experience in Accounts, knowledge of Tally ERP 9, focus RT having NOC & D/L, looking for suitable job.

Contact 93086105

Indian female B.Sc- Fashion Designer 21 years, fresher, One month internship in a garment industry 2015 University best designer award holder. Now looking for a creative job, currently on residential visa.

Contact: 98297940 / 99741604.

Email : zintasabu@gmail.com

Male 26 yrs, MBA in Accounts and Finance, 2 years Experience in Management and Accounts Fields, and 1 year experience in Operations in Oman Looking for a suitable job.

Contact 94374745

Architect and Interior designer, 8 years exp capable of managing turn key projects, design, BOQ, Execution.

NOC available. Contact : 95273166

Indian male 32 years MBA, 6 out of 14 years experience in Oman in accounts / finance having NOC and Valid Oman driving license last date in Oman 01/AUG/2015.

Contact: 94051463 Email: gkvenkatesh83@gmail.com Indian male with total 5 year experience (2 years experience in Accountant cum sales co ordinator in a FMCG Company in Oman) in accounts field and NOC available.

Looking for suitable job Contact 92130188 Accountant 8 yrs experience looking part time job.

Contact 99867456 MBA Graduate with 6 yrs exp in finance/accounts/ auditing. Specialized in accounts payable dept, Oracle app user, proficient in Sap (fico) end user & tally 9.0. lean &six sigma certified trainer on visit visa.

Contact – 91967213 / 99064780 Motivated and energetic male 25 having 4 years of experience in finance with Master’s degree in Economics and CAT Certified seeking opportunity in Accounts/finance/ audit in a reputable organization.

Cell no: 00968-94626209 E-Mail: omerjawedshah@gmail.com

DRIVER Light duty driver with 2 yrs experience looking for job. Contact: 96342684 Light driver. Contact: 96961993 Indian (Kerala) light driver seeking for job, 5 yrs experience in Oman.

Contact: 98029273 Looking for driving job.

Contact: 98219182 Driver: 15 years Driving Experience in Saudi Arabia, Looking for suitable place, Contact.. 91624908, 93540898 Driver available with car and without car Education, B. A exp. 5 years, language Hindi, Arabic, English.

Contact: 98522914 Bangladeshi male light driver seeking suitable placement 1 yr experience. Contact: 94158238 Driver available with car driver & without car. Contact 96771598 / 94039796 Driver, 42 yrs seeks for suitable job KSA, 12 years Oman 4 years,.

Contact: 95796030

Light driver. Contact: 95779594 Driver looking for job. Contact 99507039 Pakistani driving available.

Contact : 96913836

EDUCATION Professional Teacher Qualified M.Com Post Graduate in finance for teaching Accounting subject.

Contact: 91251210

ENGG. / TECHNICAL Indian female, Ph. D in Mech. Engg, B.Sc, B.Ed, M.Sc & M.Phil in Physics having 6 yrs Malaysia University/ College teaching exp +1 yr experience for research fellow seeking good position in Oman. Contact 97793859 / 93621114, sreejayarejil@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer, Indian 24 with 2 yrs experience in HVAC- MEP Revit – MEP, AutoCAD – MEP Navis solid works Catia PRO-E primavera.

Contact: 96975382 Email: bonny491@gmail.com MBA having 4years Gulf experience in Coordination with contracting company .NOC Available.

Ph: 95405885 Indian female, BE, Civil engineer with 1 year experience looking for suitable vacancy, on visit.

Contact 95139583, Email : aisushetty09@gmail.com SAP – SCM.MM Consultant B.Tech.

(Chemical), from NIT, working with oil industry, seeks employment.

Contact: 98049288 Iraqi Civil Engineer, 12 years experience with Omani driving license.

Contact: 94695595 Electrical Engineer, B. Sc degree, Filipino, 15 years experience in oil & gas, power plant, substation, EPC projects, testing & commissioning, O & M with Oman D/L light.

Contact: 97090934 Degree holder Civil Engineer having 10 years experience with driving license looking for better position.

Contact 98451844 Email: zahid_ruet@hotmail.com Indian male Safety Officer, 4+ years experience diploma in fire & safety Eng seeks suitable post.

Contact: 98843139 Indian male, 38 years old, DME – Mechanical Maintenance Technician 11 years Oman experience.

Ready for NOC, VISA transfer, ready to join immediately, Mob +968 95612870, seeniselvan@gmail.com Indian male, 34 years old, DEE – Electrical Supervisor 10 years Oman experience. Ready for NOC , VISA transfer and valid Oman driving license light, ready to join immediately. Contact +91 9740679094, kulasekar1980@gmail.com Electrical Engineer Indian male 29 years, having 5 years of experience in industrial automation and utility maintenance in India (MRF Tyres) seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 92789995 Email: akhilabrahamlktr@gmail.com Structural Engineer of 2 years & 7 months experience, specialized in Structural Design and Site Supervision looking for a job. Contact: 94634906 / 94370767 Email: muazomer45@gmail.com B.E in ECE worked as Junior Scientist Trainee in Chennai worked as System Admin in Berik Honda Nagger coil worked at Technical Support in Samsung Service, presently in Bangalore.

Contact : 0091 7026267513 Indian female 23, B.Tech (Electrical & Electronics) & Diploma in Electrical CAD on Visit Visa seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 99278410 / 94027398, Email: renju.raghavan7@gmail.com Indian Civil Engineer (buildings) available immediately as supply contract. Contact: 93263834 Indian female, B.Tech biotechnology with strong computer skills and 2 years experience as associate research analyst (Media Monitoring) in Nasdaq Oman seeking growth oriented jobs. Contact 92044603 /918056169148 or angeline.babithac@gmail.com.

T H U R S DAY, J U LY 9, 2 0 1 5

D5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED

DRIVER

MISCELLANEOUS

Electrical Eng. Degree (MEP) need suitable job of construction 12 yrs exp.

Email: mohd.ateeq.khan@gmail.com

4 Years experienced (Money exchange services & Hospitality services in Oman & India) - Indian male 27 years, graduate in Hospitality science, fluent in English, Hindi & Arabic seeks suitable placement.

Contacts: 91383167

Indian Male, IT Support Engineer, 2 yrs in Oman & 5 yrs Indian experience. Contact 97311847 Btech computer science graduate 2015 passout.. Android application marketing.. Having good communication skills and mindset to work in a team. Contact 91024385 Engineer with 3 yrs experience in Indian in MEP, HVAC& mechanical maintained field on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact 99191535 Email: fareed029@gmail.com

IT Indian male, B.E ( computer science engineer), MBA (finance), OCA certified, having 5 years of experience in oracle Dba/ oracle apps Dba, seeks a suitable position in the field of IT. Contact: 96212062 email: zubairkhan11@gmail.com Indian female MCA, 24 years seeking suitable job. Contact 93439467

MEDICAL

MISCELLANEOUS

Well experienced MOH Licensed Indian GP Doctor looking for locum / permanent position in the Capital area. Contact 98140024 email:drgpoman@yahoo.com

Omani Mechanical Engineer, has 3 years experience ,has HSE, H2S, Riggers/Banks men Permit, Drawing / cad, SCBA, Safety Leadership and Initial Fire Response Courses. good with computer and English language looking for suitable job.

Contact 99224319-98454500

Female Dentist Indian, Prometric passed 63%,4 years of work experience, immediately available to join.

Contact 97469553, nazianbaig@gmail.com Indian male GP doctor, 12 years experience parametric passed with 74% seeks suitable post. Email: ppdr2020@gmail.com Indian female Dentist MOH Oman passed seeking a suitable placement in capital region.

Contact– 91377681 hashimsarawat@gmail.com

TOURS & TRAVELS 25 Indian female B.S.C. Fashion Technology. 5 years experience in textile industry as a merchandiser and good in fashion marketing.

Currently available on visit visa, seeking for a suitable job.

Contact 96990368.

Email: simmy.missy@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS ACCA Affiliate, 2.5years experience in Audit/Finance in Global Big6 Firms and Oil company in Oman, Looking for suitable permanent placement. Release NOC Available.

Contact: #95140445, a.saran891@gmail.com

B.E Computer Science, Indian male looking for suitable job in the field of software or information technology having good knowledge in Java, ASP. Net, MS Sql, MS Word.

Contact: 91986919 Email: dileep2468.a@gmail.com

Lab Technician, Civil (8yrs Gulf experience) looking for a suitable job (NOC available) Contact-93344378

SALES / MARKETING

Electrical Engineer, 29, Indian Male, having 7+ years exp. in reputed companies. Seeking suitable placement in any Oman. Contact - 97693456.

Mail ID : venkatbadri23@gmail.com

Indian male 25 yrs exp in Administration, Telecom, Optical Fiber Communication, Networking, MS Office.

Seeks any job. On visit visa.

Contact 91385373 / sridharbsnlma1455@gmail.com

Indian male MBA 7 years experience in Hospitality industry, operation, sales & marketing looking for suitable vacancy. Contact 92115860 Email vibin.py@gmail.com

BE. Biomedical Engineer, 5 years experience in the same field (Hospital/company)looking for suitable placement. Contact:92084807 Email:bonnygeorge1005@gmail.com

MBA from UK with 9 yrs experience in London, Dubai & Mumbai.

Specialized GCC experience in top real estate co & bank with driving license. NOC available.

Contact 968 95168205, dubaihomes1@gmail.com

ELECTRICAL ENGINEER – Indian male seeking Electrical Engineer job with 2 years’ experience.

Contact: 94263445, E mail – janardhanan53@gmail.com

Network system Engineer B.E / ECE + CCNA & Ms certified with 4+ yrs exp looking for a job. Currently in Oman on visit visa. Contact: 92589502 Email: careersjegan

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR Production Manager 13 years experience in cast Aluminium fab. field and good track record seeking for a suitable job. NOC ready in Hand.

Contact: 96392319 Indian male, with 8 yrs exp. in Oman (BA- Graduate) working as a project Sales Coordinator, with Oman D/L, looking for suitable job, ready to join immediately with NOC. Contact 95245057

MISCELLANEOUS Female Postgraduate searching suitable job. Contact 97792820 Indian male Oman D/L 2 years Saudi experience in electrical, fire and safety one year Oman logistic management experience.

Contact : 91233475 Bangladeshi Post Graduate seeks a job good command in English and computer ready to take the challenge.

Contact 93982627 Email: saymun.riyad@gmail.com Filipino Male looking for a job & have experience in sales, waiter, barista, technical support / customer service with good communication skills. Contact 91789465 Indian Female with over 9 yrs experience with good communication skills seeks jobs in customer service or sales field.

Contact : 96108289, Email - shijipaul84@gmail.com Part- Time Accountant, well experience senior accountant ,doing all type of accounting works, Finalization, Budgeting available.

Contact: :98803439 13 Years UAE experienced in MNC & reputed firms logistics distribution looking for a suitable placement, on visit visa contact 99838743, gani.dawood@gmail.com Male Indian BBM Graduate 8 years experience in logistics and ware housing in a reputed company valid driving license NOC available looking for suitable position.

Contact : 96311786 Email: ubinfs@gmail.com

Looking for Sales Assistant job (having Oman driving license).

Contact : 95872634 Indian male MBA Graduate 10 years experience in Sales and Marketing (Tyre Industry and Electrical Industry) looking for a suitable position. Contact: 96065164 Email: pradeesh123in@yahoo.co.in Indian male 31 visionary business strategist having over 8+ years of global experience seeking a challenging position that utilizes my years of experience currently on visit. Contact: 91902154 Indian male. 27, Post Graduate, 5+ yrs exp in Oman in Sales & Credit Control, with valid Oman driving License, NOC available, looking for suitable placements. Ph: 9199 3376 Indian Male, B.Com Graduate, 23, with experience in Sales looking for suitable placements. .

Contact 98371144 Indian male Graduate with 18 years experience in Sales and Marketing currently on visit visa seeks suitable placement. Contact : 91996486 / 99732070 Indian male 45+ yrs , 20 yrs exp as sales supervisor in India looking for indoor sales /stores /cashier or any suitable placement can speak Hindi , English, Malayalam, Tamil, kannada can join immediately on visit visa.

Contact 93086105/33016546 Indian 6 years experience as Sales Executive with 2 years visa, driving license seek suitable job.

Contact 92233068 Pakistani male 34 yrs Intermediate 2 yrs exp in sales & marketing in Oman. Looking for suitable job.

Contact - 92146864 6 years experienced male holding Masters Degree with experience in customer relationship, real estate, Sales and IT. Contact: 98823248 Email: sajjadhussain@yahoo.com Market research / Hospitality Indian male Graduate with nearly 30 yrs experience in Market research & hospitality industry. NOC available.

Contact: 99347089

32 years, Filipina with experience in Teleperformance, Manila call centre, now working as Waitress in Qatar seeking suitable post.

Contact 99022484 Sudanese/ 26 years/ master of clinical pharmacy(1st class)/ 1 year experience/live in India/excellent communication in English(IELTS Certificate) and arabic/pharmacist license/hassan_kassala@hotmail. com 00919600413966-96387227 24 Years, indian male 2.5 Years experience in admin & accounts, dubai.

Currently on visit visa. Seeking suitable placement in admin & accounts.

M: 93016252 EMAIL: shahabaskp@gmail.com Indian male, MBA with 20 years of experience in back office operation, risk and operational management, financial management for Finance and Trading companies. Presently available on visit visa. #91276221 CCNA MCITP network support /network technician with 2 years experience indian male having bachelors degree on visit visa. #93080871 sean.f.peters@outlook.com Video Editor 29 years Indian male with 8 years experience on visit visa looking for a suitable placement #91275969 leomoorkoth@gmail.com Omani male , BBA ,with 6 year experience in HR &Admin looking for opportunity in HR & Admin in Muscat. Joint date after one month notice period . Mobile 92223279 Having 9+ years exp. in Admin, Purchase, Stores & Warehouse in reputed companies. Presently working in Muscat and seeking for suitable placement. Contact +968 97693456. email : muralimahdav77@gmail.com Innovative Indian Male 29, B.E & M.Tech Web designer / developer with over 5.5 years of work experience in HTML 5, CSS 3, SEO, Digital marketing (DFP & DCM), Magento, CMS, Photoshop and Dreamweaver.

Can join ASAP. Contact 00968 9630 3055 / email: aditya.khandkar@gmail.com 10 YEAR Experienced PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER. Currently working at Kerala, India.

Seeks placement.

Contact: 95872030 , email: - sajith3969@gmail.com

Indian male 22 Mechanical Diploma holder Engg with HVAC certified, having 1 year exp. seeking suitable position. Currently available on visit visa. Contact - 92835952 Indian male Diploma, Civil engineer 4.3 year experience at building construction and consulting company with Oman driving licence and N.O.C available seeking suitable placement Contact 95989500 email cv.shihabedappal@gmail.com Tanzanian male, 25 yrs Accountant successful experience in Tanzania looking for suitable placement in any field. Contact : 96710154 Content Executive, freshers with good communication skills and willingness to learn may apply on job@socioholics.com Business development Manager/ Executive. Preferably minimum of 2 years experience. Valid driving licence can apply on job@socioholics.com Indian male 48yrs with driving license looking for a job to work as driver / salesman. Residing at Al Khoudh. Contact: 99551310 Indian female Nurse with 5 yrs of experience, presently working in Oman, seeking for suitable placement. NOC available can join immediately. Contact: 98329941 Email: ancyanish2011@gmail.com Looking for part time jobs in Muscat, Auto cad Draughtsman (Civil). contact:-+968-99070584 email: remluvp@gmail.com Indian female MA. B.Ed. with one year three months teaching experience. Subject: English Seeking for a Better placement. Now working in Oman Contact: 93961142, 92184408 Email:anoopkesavan78@gmail.com B.Sc. Mechanical Engineer Sudanese 3 yrs of exp. In industrial field available in Muscat on visit visa seeking suitable job .

Contact: 95868922, Email: almouthanaosman@yahoo.com Indian Male MBA with two year experience in H.R as a H.R Assistant, Now in India, Seeking for an urgent suitable position. Contact:-98620260 / 93895992 , Email:deepakmb4@gmail.com Indian male auto cad draughtsman (civil) 8 years experience, seeking for part time job mobile no: 0096899070584 email: remluvp@gmail.com 8 years successful experience.

Senior Accountant, Indian male, 29 years, presently working in oman as a senior accountant with oman driving license. NOC available. seek suitable opportunity. gsm: 97705854 PART TIME ACCOUNTANT, Indian male, M. Com, 35 years, 12 Years exp. in Accounts, 8 years in Oman.

Knowledge upto finalization. Having valid D/L, seeks suitable Placement.

GSM: 96249124 Egyptian Civil Engineer, total experience 7 years - 2 years experience in Oman. I am looking for Project Engineer, I have good experience in site & office works.

Contact number:91148708 Indian Male 24 years, Looking for a Suitable Job in Telecom / Networking. 1 year sales experience. MSc. Communications Engineering & Valid Driving license. Ph: 91280121.

Email: jackrprasad@yahoo.com.

MISCELLANEOUS MOH Indian Dentist 10 years experience in Oman. Can speak Arabic, has driving license. Contact 98995321 or ventureoman007@gmail.com BRANCH-HEAD, MBA-BBA, Indian Male having experience in UAE, India, Oman total 5 years (including MNC), looking for similar or same openings.NOC available.

Mobile :92700670, E mail:catanalur131@gmail.com Qualified Native speaking male English Teacher with 18 years experience seeks position. Salary Negotiable. Whatsapp on +968 9334 1047 / +968 93952732 or e-mail me on nadgov@gmail.com Indian female, IATA, B. Sc, looking for suitable placement.Contact-95514305, E mail idraveendranmala@gmail.com ACCOUNTANT, Indian male, 29 years, 8 years experience. Presently working in Oman as a Senior Accountant with Oman Driving license.

NOC available seek suitable opportunity. GSM: 98184170 12 yrs exp FREELANCE 2d, 3d Draughtsman (holding Omani driving license). Contact : 93790601 Sudanese male, 31 year, have 3 year Diploma in Electrical Engineer, 6 years experience in construction and electrical plant.

Mobile No ; +96894549609 Freelance Graphic Designer available to assist in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and Corel Draw Projects.

Contact : 95811820 Indian Female Lawyer 36 Yrs having 11 yrs experience presently working in Oman as Legal Advisor seeks placement in Legal/HR/Admin NOC available Contact-94436960 Email: famidakhan123@gmail.com 23, Male, ACCA Affiliate, 2 years+ experience in Audit and Finance in audit firm, Looking for suitable permanent placement, NOC release Available. Contact: #95140445 a.saran891@gmail.com MBA - (F), M.Com, B.COM. Indian female having knowledge of accounts with Tally looking for part time or full time job. Presently on family visa. Contact :- 91892264.

Email:- yashicapandya@gmail.com Indian Female 10 years exp as cook in Oman. South Indian & Gujarati special looking for part-time job Contact 96733187.

Indian male-28 Years, Diploma in Electrical Egg, having gulf experience. Specialization on Electrical Installation and Maintenance, Operation. 7 years experience seeks for suitable placement.

Mob – 968-95334580. E-mail -sunilkumar257.sk23@gmail.com Indian male auto cad draughtsman (civil) 8 years experience seeking for part time job Mobile no: 00968 99070584, E mail: remluvp@gmail.com Seeking Teaching Position. Qualified and experienced Native English speaking teacher seeking position in Muscat, I have a Teaching Diploma , two Honours Degrees and a CELTA Certificate. Position at Language school will be suitable. Will e-mail CV. Whatsapp only +96893952732

Available for part time accounting job, contact 99196621 MBA (F), B.COM. Indian female having knowledge of accounts with Tally looking for full or part time job. presently on family visit visa.

Contact :- 96259171.

Email:- bhumicapandya@gmail.com SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, Indian male,29 years.8 years experience .Presently working in Oman as a Senior Accountant with oman Driving license. NOC available, seek suitable opportunity. GSM: 97705854 Sudanese male (B.Sc Computer Science) (Diploma Computer Engineering) 6 yrs. experience DBA Oracle PLSQL , MS SQL-server, MS visual studio VBA, network. Contact :91415886 BSc Graduate, INDIAN male , seeking suitable jobs.

GSM: +91-8589820233.

MAIL ID: prajinap45@gmail.com Syrian male 3yrs. exp in IT support, Networking, Security systems, Server support, IT sales and marketing.

Valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement. Contact 91033395 Indian Male, 38 years old, DME – Mechanical Maintenance Technician 11 years Oman experience. Ready for NOC , VISA transfer, ready to join immediately, Mob +968 95612870, seeniselvan@gmail.com Indian Male, 34 years old, DEE – Electrical Supervisor 10 years Oman experience. Ready for NOC , VISA transfer and valid Oman driving licence light, ready to join immediately, Mob +91 9740679094, kulasekar1980@gmail.com 24 years, Indian Chartered Accountant male with 3 yrs of experience is seeking suitable placement in Muscat, currently on visit visa & ready to join immediately. Kindly contact him on 98201476 or email at lokeshkaluri@gmail.com Young Indian Chartered Accountant, female, Having 6 years experience in Oman and India. Accounts and Finance Manager, Auditor. Urgently seeking suitable positions.# 92530131, jobcareer44@gmail.com Tunisian women looking for a job, khnows english,frensh, italian and arabic. Contact: 91171838 Indian male 25 years B.tech computers (Having 3 years of experience in customer service/Admin/IT Support) looking for suitable position.

Visa Transfer/NOC Available immediate to join. Contact: 98402389, Mail: naresh6672@gmail.com Manager, Young Indian Male, MBA, BBA. Having excellent managerial experience (around 5 years) in leading Multi-National-Company.

Looking for suitable positions.

Contact: 92700670, fardhaan@gmail.com Indian Female MA. B.Ed. with One year three months Teaching experience. Subject: EnglishSeeking for a Better placement.

Now working in Oman.

Contact 93961142, 92184408, Email:-anoopkesavan78@gmail.com ACCOUNTANT: Indian male 25 having 4years experience in accounting & having well knowledge in tally.

Contact:968094535881, 0091 9037622048 Email: vishnuraj889@gmail.com

D6

T H U R S D AY, J U LY 9, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

ACCOUNTANTS AND CONSULTANTS

WE ARE PROVIDING ACCOUNTING/ AUDITING TAX/ CONSULTING CONTACT: 24 567 251 / 95 498 033

COMPUTER

WEBSITE

SITUATION WANTED Filipino Male looking for a job & have experience in sales, waiter, barista, technical support / customer service with good communication skills. # 91789465 ACCOUNTING – Indian male seeking accounting job with 2 years experience in accounting.

Contact: 94263445, E mail – contactantonyxavieranand@gmail. com Sudanese male: 27 yrs, 2 years experience in accounting, other experience (purchasing – HR - Coordinating and Office Management), looking for a job Omani Driving License, NOC. Contact: 94174403

PRODUCTION OPERATOR – Indian male seeking production operator or related jobs with 4 years of experience in oil & gas field.

Contact 94263445.

Email: tonyxavier4u@gmail.com Indian Keralite Male 35 looking for Scaffolding supervisor post having 5 years of Supervisor and HSE experience in GCC Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Fluent in English Arabic and Hindi .

Contact 96155921, or mail fysal.nellaya@gmail.com

Pest control Treatments, termites, cockroaches, bedbugs Ocean Center LLC. Contact: 99344723

Indian Male 28 yrs, having 7 years Gulf + Indian experience in HR and Admin field, looking for suitable placement. Contact: 97914340, Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com

24 year Indian Chartered Accountant male with 3yrs of experience is seeking suitable placement in Muscat, currently on visit visa & ready to join immediately. Contact him on 98201476 or email at lokeshkaluri@gmail.com

Indian Male 28 years MSM, B. Com having 6years experience in Gulf and India as a HR and Admin looking for suitable placement.

Contact:97914340.

Email: rajkv30@gmail.com

Sudanese male (B.Sc, computer science) (diploma computer engineering), 6 yrs. experience DBA oracle PL-SQL, MS SQL - Server, MS visual studio vba, network.

Contact 91415886

B.Sc. Mechanical Engineer Sudanese 3 yrs of exp. In industrial field available in muscat on vist visa seeking suitable job .

Contact: 95868922, Email: almouthanaosman@yahoo.com

Syrian male 3yrs. exp in IT support, Networking, Security systems, Server support, IT sales and marketing.

Valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement. Contact 91055584

IT system and Printer engineer ME, 5Years bank IT Management exp in India looking for full time job visit visa contact 94462150

Over 15 years experience in Gulf.

Interior Architect, Lebanese Nationality, on visit visa seeking a suitable Placement. 96268005.

A/C Maintenance & servicing, fridge, washing machine & dish washer repairing, painting & cleaning services, electrical & plumbing. Contact: 99447257 / 97014234 / 24504281

Indian male with 8 yrs experience in FMCG in Oman as Sales Supervisor looking for suitable placement.

NOC available.

Gsm: 96495206

House shifting & transporting.

Contact 92490422

WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price.

Contact: http//webviewoman

MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. Contact 24793614/ 99314807 House shifting. Contact 99708138

CLASSES

Carpet, curtain, sofa, floor, cleaning, shampooing, marble & mosaic tiles grinding, polishing and painting. Contact : 93630133 / 95821193 House shifting packing.

99657644 / 98518013

Learn Cup cakes, exotic cakes, Icing decorations, handicrafts.

Contact 95941515

Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & anti-termite treatment, general cleaning painting, Plumbing, Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. # 24810137, 99450130

Split & widow unit A.C servicing & repairing. Contact: 99557080 Split & window unit A.C servicing & maintenance.

Contact: 96236476 Window & split unit A.C servicing & maintenance. Contact : 93769089 / 95323517 Split & window A.C servicing & maintenance. Contact 93769089/95323517

CLASSES

Air condition maintenance split and window services AC specialist ducted and package type unites.

Contact: 98667326 GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998 Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance.Contact ABU QABAS99320217 /24788722 Carpet, Sofa Shampooing. Ocean Center LLC. Contact: 99884591 AC servicing maintenance fixing.

Contact: 99540621

Admission Open: CAMBRIDGE / BILINGUAL CURRICULUM admission started in Al Burj Private School, Azaiba for KG and Grade I to IV. Please register soonest.

Contact: 93211417 / 92887809.

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

T H U R S DAY, J U LY 9, 2 0 1 5

D7

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours Contact- 98029602, 92808636

TOURS

RENT A CAR

RENT A CAR

Butter cup rent a car presents fantastic offers all vehicles are model 2016.

Contact : 97249449

RENT A CAR

GOOD NEWS

DRIVING

Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis massage, steam bath, obesity, spondylitis IDEAL , CARE Ayurvedic Clinic 18 November street, Azaiba. Contact 99639695 / 99117987

SITUATION WANTMANPOWER

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

Learn driving with professional only automatic. Contact 94022250

TRANSPORTATION Transportation. Contact: 96538078 Transportation. Contact: 98522914 Transportation. Contact 99508282

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

Transportation. Contact: 98244078 Pick & Drop any time. Contact: 97014786

D8

T H U R S D AY, J U LY 9, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624