Times of Oman - October 18, 2016

TUESDAY October 18, 2016 16 Muharram 1438 AH

6 085010 120010 FROM THE WORDS OF HIS MAJESTY THE SULTAN

Four pages special supplement on ‘Traffic Safety Expo 2016’ with today’s edition

To the People, 1975

‘His Majesty’s Wisdom’ Truth and honesty are essential both at home and abroad. It is essential to convey a true and positive picture of what is taking place on the soil of our beloved Oman, in a way that reflects the tremendous enterprises undertaken by our people, as well as their great hopes for the future.

Founded 1975 . Volume 41 No. 197 | 40 Pages . Baisas 200 . Subscription OMR63 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company | Chairman/Editor-in-Chief: Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali | Printed & Published by Muscat Media Group

R O YA L O R D E R

A LIFE CUT SHORT BY TRAGEDY The boy was hit by a car as he crossed a side road in Ruwi

RAHUL DAS TARIQ ZIAD AL HAREMI

MUSCAT: Grieving father Munawar Hameed, whose 14-year-old son died on Sunday after a collision with a car, has warned parents to moni-

HM issues 4 Royal Decrees MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said yesterday issued four Royal Decrees as follows: Royal Decree No. 48/2016 establishes a national training fund and promulgates its system of functioning.

Article (1) states that a fund to be named National Training Fund shall be established and that it shall have a legal entity and enjoy financial and administrative autonomy. >A6

tor their children and drivers to slow down.

Munawar sent his 14-yearold son Zafeer for extra tuition lessons so the footballmad teenager could achieve his dream of becoming a chartered accountant.

Last night, he buried his son in Amerat cemetery in Muscat. Zafeer was knocked over and killed as he crossed a side road in Ruwi, near Hamriya roundabout. He had just returned from tuition lessons and split from his friends so that he could return home faster to his family, at around 6pm on Sunday night. >A5

TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

REGION

Mosul offensive

1

Iraqi forces launched a USbacked offensive to drive IS from city of Mosul. >A7

MARKET

Sohar port plans

2

Oman plans to build a large modern automated container terminal. >B1

SPORTS

‘Vision 2020’

K I N G ’ S D E AT H

As Thais mourn, tourists told to respect people’s sentiments Times News Service

Special activities mark Women’s Day

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MUSCAT: If you’re travelling to Thailand, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects you to respect the feelings and sensitivities of the Thai nationals after their monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, passed away.

“As Thailand is currently in a period of national mourning after the passing of beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej, we expect

visitors to wear respectful attire,” a spokesperson of TAT, Middle East said. Thailand welcomed more than 85,000 tourists in 2015 from Oman, reflecting a 13 per cent jump from the previous year. Between January and August 2016, 72,920 tourists visited Thailand from Oman.

TAT also recommended that any visitors with travel or tourism plans should reconfirm with their agents and check local me-

3

OSA chairman Taha Al Kishry spells out ‘Vision 2020’. >C1

dia regularly, as well as follow the advice of the local authorities for announcements and updates.

Delays “They should also be aware that in some areas transport could be affected. We also ask tourists and visitors for their understanding and patience should they experience delays or some routes may be closed to traffic,” it added. >A6 See also >A12

MORNING MINUTE

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

OMAN

We are committed to promoting Oman at every stage and in every sector and Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITC) is one of them His Highness Sayyid Faisal bin Turki Al Said, Ithraa’s Director General of Investment Promotion

I N T I T I AT I V E

Al Mouj Muscat identifies potential investors abroad SYED HAITHAM HASAN

haitham@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Al Mouj Muscat has identified locations abroad for promoting their properties.

The three-year promotion plan will target individuals from East Africa, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Iraq and Iran as potential investors in Al Mouj and Omani markets as a whole.

Al Mouj has been actively promoting its properties abroad with great success and has enjoyed the best year since its inception in terms of sales. It has sold, both its most expensive villa and apartment, to foreign buyers this year and plans to generate an interest in the Omani industrial markets, which is crucial to Oman’s diversification plan.

Speaking to the Times of Oman at the launch of the ‘Oman Investment Handbook,’ published through a collaboration among Ithraa (Public Authority Investment Promotion and Export Development), Al Mouj and KPMG and which summarises Oman’s investment potential, Nasser Al Shibani, chief executive officer (CEO) of Al Mouj Muscat explained Al Mouj Muscat’s strategy and the importance of promoting Oman as a country.

“For the next three years, we have identified our target audience and location. This includes countries from East Africa and the GCC, along with Iraq and Iran, where we see a huge potential for investing abroad. The major goal that we are aiming for now is promoting Oman as a whole, instead of getting buyers for a property in Al Mouj. You can’t expect international buyers to buy from you when there is little information about the country you are based in,” he said.

Al Mouj in partnership with Ithraa and KPMG has launched the ‘Oman Investment Handbook,’ a promotional summary that contains information signifi-

INVESTMENT MADE EASY: Al Mouj in partnership with Ithraa and KPMG launched the ‘Oman Investment Handbook. – Photo supplied

cant for investors abroad.

His Highness Sayyid Faisal bin Turki Al Said, Ithraa’s Director General of Investment Promotion, said the authority is committed to Oman’s investment promotion and Al Mouj Muscat is a part of it. “We are committed to promoting Oman at every stage and in every sector and Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITC) is one of them,” he said.

He also said Ithraa prefers partnerships with specialised organisations to promote Oman. “One of the most important challenges is to speed up the process of diversification; therefore we need to identify potential markets and investors and what we have to offer them. We need to define our product and convince the investors that it is worth putting their investment in. All of this requires expertise from different backgrounds and partnerships with organisations is an excellent way to move forward. At the end of it, what Ithraa produces is the prod-

uct of everyone involved as we don’t own any sectors,” he added.

Partnership growth Al Mouj CEO Al Shibani stressed that the partnership between these firms is necessary for the development of the Omani economy. “We partnered with Ithraa and KPMG in this handbook so that we could complement each other’s expertise and produce a comprehensive handbook, which would include an investment scenario in Oman, laws and legislations for doing business, key sectors and the real-estate market,” he said.

He also added that such partnerships are very desirable for promoting Oman outside.

Speaking to the Times of Oman, Ashok Hariharan, head of Tax Services at KPMG, said that products from such partnerships create a synergy that have a greater outreach and appeal for more audience when compared with separate initiatives.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

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Envoy volunteers for Shatti Beach cleaning Mitsugu Saito, who has served as the ambassador of Japan

28,020 register on Monday for campaign

in Oman for more

To include their names in His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s portrait for the 46th National day, 28,020 people registered yesterday. On Facebook, 42,000 people viewed it while the website recorded 9,500 page views.

than a year now, has been cleaning the beach every morning for the last month before he goes to work throw diapers on the beach.”

“In Japan, people are disciplined and are educated as to not leaving garbage unattended,” he explained. “If they bring garbage, they also bring a garbage bag. If you have a chance to go to Japan, you will see very little or no garbage, even if there are no trash cans in the area.

GAUTAM VISWANATHAN

gautam@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: If you’re taking a walk on Shatti Beach in the mornings and see a Japanese gentleman picking up litter, do lend him a hand.

Mitsugu Saito, who has served as the ambassador of Japan in Oman for more than a year now, has been cleaning the beach every morning for the last month before he goes to work. “My residence is very close to the beach and I go for a walk on the beach every morning,” he said, speaking exclusively to the Times of Oman.

“I noticed that there is a lot of garbage left that is not only bad for the beauty of the beach, but also harms the environment.”

Saito is accompanied by his wife when he goes for a walk, and has a special tool with which he collects litter. However, his efforts are met with indifference by a majority of passers-by.

“Frankly speaking, 90 per cent of the people, who see me, are indifferent. They don’t care,” he admitted. “The rest of the 10 per cent are staring at me, or express their

CARING FOR ENVIRONMENT: Mitsugu Saito, Japan’s ambassador to Oman is accompanied by his wife when he goes for a walk, and has a special tool with which he collects litter. – Supplied photo

appreciation. But the worst case is people, who come to me and tell me to pick up their garbage for them.”

“I tell them they must pick their own garbage, but what do they do?

They just throw the garbage, and that is very disappointing for me.”

Having previously served in Bangkok, Saito lives near the Shatti cinema and takes a morning walk from there to the Grand Hyatt Hotel between 6:40 am and 7:20 am. A myriad number of dis-

carded items are often found on the beach, according to Saito.

“Mainly, the largest number of items I pick up are cigarette butts,” he revealed.

“These are very small, but they are not good for the environment because they are artificial. The second most common litter is plastic bottles, which are used to drink mineral water. But the garbage I dislike the most are diapers.

I don’t understand why people

FREE CHECK-UP

Sri Lankan School children get oral hygiene lessons at camp

KEEPING THEM HEALTHY: Running at the school on the 17th and 18th of October, dentists at the camp will also educate children about the importance of dental hygiene at a young age. – Supplied photo

Dr. Priya Rajeev, a dental specialist at the clinic, hopes this camp will motivate children and their parents to come forward and treat any existing dental problems they might have.

“Because of the change in lifestyle and the habit of fast food, the oral health of children has deteriorated over a period of time,” she explained.

GAUTAM VISWANATHAN

gautam@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: More than 3,000 students from the Sri Lankan School, Muscat will receive free dental check-ups at a dental awareness camp organised by the Al Essa Dental Clinic.

Being held on Monday and Tuesday, dentists at the camp will also educate children about the importance of dental hygiene at a young age.

Neel Subasinghe, the principal of the Sri Lankan School, Muscat, told the Times of Oman that it is compulsory for all children in the school to visit the dentist during the two-day camp so that they know the importance of maintaining their teeth properly.

“This is the first time in the history of the school that we have created such a camp, and a lot of parents, who send their children (to school), are not very educated about these issues,” he said.

“If we give them the opportunity, we can identify if there are problems and we can educate the parents, as well as the children.”

“All the children who have come here for a check-up with the dentists are also eligible for a 20 per cent discount on their next visit to Al Essa,” he added.

“This is a win-win for both the students and the clinic, because it’s not everywhere that 3,000 children will be able to gain such access to dentists. We want to thank Al Essa for coming here and organising this camp.”

Awareness “When we examined the children at this camp, we saw a lot of cavities, which I think the parents would not have noticed.

“It is deteriorating, but I’ve seen from past experiences that parents are taking care of their children and they do bring them to dental clinics. Some of them are not aware of these problems so to give them all the same opportunity to learn how to take care of their teeth, we are organising this camp,” she stated.

For more information about dental clinics being organised by the Al Essa Dental Clinic, please call 2479 7406 or email info@ alessadental.com

Matter of discipline “People are taught not to throw garbage on the road, but bring it back in a trash bag even if there are no dustbins,” Saito added. “This is a discipline that is not just taught at school, but at home as well. My parents always used to tell me not to throw garbage on the road but to put it in the trash cans.”

In this context, the Ambassador also had a message for the people of Oman. “I also want to say to the Muscat Municipality: please increase the number of dustbins at the beach. The number of dustbins near the beach is very small.

The next time I meet with someone from the municipality, I will raise it with them.”

“I want to say to the readers, going to the beach is fine, but if you are going to have a drink or bring some food, please bring back the waste in a garbage bag.”

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

OMAN Special activities mark Omani Women’s Day

SOCIAL INVESTMENT

PDO pledges to support 5 projects Times News Service MUSCAT: Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) has pledged to support five social investment projects to benefit Omani communities.

The Thumrait Hospital will be expanded with a 14-bed capacity.

This will be achieved by adding extra facilities—male and female wards, extra offices and clinics— to the existing emergency and maternity units, as well as essential medical equipment. The facility will serve both the local community and motorists on the Muscat-Salalah road.

PDO will also support the Oman Cancer Association (OCA) for the maintenance and insurance of its mobile mammography unit, which has given free tests to more than 11,000 women from different parts of Oman since it was introduced two years ago.

In addition, PDO has also committed to building a library at the Centre for Teaching Quran Sciences in SamadA’shan in Al Mudhaibi, which teaches Quranic recitation, Islamic values and sciences, Arabic language and calligraphy. The library will include a “PDO Corner” to showcase the company’s activities, history and publications.

The centre, which was constructed in 2010 to serve the whole country, is being redeveloped and will offer a hall for prayers, lectures and studies, and classrooms.

Food and accommodation will also be available for people from outside the wilayat.

PDO will also sponsor the construction of a public majlis in Al Rusais, Izki, which will serve the community for various functions, such as official, social and youth gatherings.

A number of activities H E A LT H

were held all over the

SPECIAL OCCASION: A special Omani breakfast morning and cooking demonstration was organised

Sultanate to celebrate

with 70 women in the country at the popular Kargeen restaurant, where women were treated to a traditional Omani breakfast, including popular delicacies. – Supplied photo

Omai Women’s Day

DEEBA HASAN

deeba@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: From breakfast mornings, saloon and restaurant discounts, to women’s gatherings, special recognitions and office celebrations, several activities were held to mark the Omani Women’s Day on October 17.

A special women’s gathering was organised at the new Whispers of Serenity Clinic in Al Azaiba, where Her Highness Sayyida Basma Al Said and her team at the clinic delivered special talks about women, their moods and lifestyle and spoke about balancing work and family.

Several women from the Royal family, wives of ministers and am-

bassadors in the country attended the occasion to rejoice the spirit of being a woman.

Maitha Al Mahrouqi, undersecretary at the Ministry of Tourism was a special guest at the event, who delivered an emotionally moving talk about her life and career.

“The idea of this event was really to mark three special occasions together—Omani Women’s Day, Mental Health Day and our sixth anniversary. I think women are sometimes too hard on themselves, trying to prove themselves, which they don’t need to, and therefore this affects their mental stability, they get anxious and stressed out because they place a big load on themselves. “I think if a woman is able to balance her life well in terms of moderation, she will be well mentally, and so will she be able to help others out.”

Breakfast Morning A special Omani breakfast morning and cooking demonstration was organised with 70 women in the country at the popular Kargeen restaurant, where women were treated to a traditional Omani breakfast, including popular delicacies, such as luqaimat, falafel, umm ali, rakhal, and several other items.

There was also a cooking demonstration held after the breakfast, where women took part in making some of these items.

ROHM Event Earlier, the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) also marked Omani Women’s Day on October 6, which was dedicated to the women of Oman, and featured music by the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra’s (ROSO) Ladies Chamber Ensemble and the Palestinian Folk-

lore Group, with a special guest appearance by Mohammed Assaf.

More events were held across the country, including special celebrations being held in offices, saloons and restaurants offering special discounts to mark the momentous day. Ever since His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said ascended the throne in 1970, he has empowered women with rights and opportunities equal to men and this has fuelled female contributions to the country in a phenomenal way.

He has also made sure that women are kept actively involved in the functioning of the nation and declared October 17 as the Omani Women’s Day, an occasion which is annually observed with large events, glittering award ceremonies, dining and shopping discounts and offers exclusive for women, and much more.

OCA’s Pink Ribbon initiative launched Times News Service MUSCAT: Oman Cancer Association has launched a ‘Pink Ribbon’ initiative to create greater awareness in the country during the month of October, which is breast cancer awareness month.

“We have been creating awareness in a number of the malls, at Muscat Grand Mall, Muscat and Qurum City Centre, Al Mouj Muscat and the Oman Avenues Mall, every weekend from Thursday to Saturday, where we advocate cancer awareness, prevention and control and also talk to people on a one to one basis,” said Dr. Wahid Al Kharusi, Chairperson of OCA. OCA will also organise four workshops from October 22

to 30 on four different topics. The first one will cater to volunteers, the second will be for journalists and it will teach them how to report on cancer, the third one will focus on leadership for the health professionals and the last will be research training.

An art exhibition will be held on October 26 at the Grand Hyatt Muscat where artworks will be displayed from 7pm to 10.30pm to raise funds. Several artists in Oman have donated their works for this. The annual walkathon, which will be held on November 1, in the Qurum Natural Park. Tshirts for this are already on sale in malls, OCA office in Al Azaiba, and in some schools, they are for OMR3.5 each.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

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MAJLIS CHAIRMAN

Shura committees hold meetings MUSCAT: Health and Environment Committee of Majlis Al Shura yesterday held its 2nd regular meeting between the 1st and 2nd annual sittings of the 8th term under the chair of Khalid bin Hilal Al Ma’awali, Chairman of Majlis Al Shura.

The Committee discussed its work plan for the 2nd annual sitting (2016 – 2017) of the 8th term (2015 – 2019).

Further, the committee presented several topics relevant to its prerogatives to study and discuss them during the 2nd annual sitting that include studying the draft patients’ rights and safety law.

Food and Water Security Committee at Majlis Al Shura also held its 1st regular meeting between the 1st and 2nd annual sittings of the 8th term under the chair of Hilal bin Said Al Yahya’ee, Head of the Committee.

The committee approved its work plan, as well as its executive

OMAN Pakistan schools plan road safety workshops

programme for the 2nd annual sitting (2016 – 2017) of the 8th term (2015 – 2019).

Jabal Shams Members of the committee viewed its work plan on studying two topics referred by the Majlis Office that include legalisation of green feed export abroad and Jabal Shams development.

Additionally, Media and Culture Committee at Majlis Al Shura also held its 3rd regular meeting between the 1st and 2nd annual sittings (2015 – 2016) of the 8th term under the chair of Mohammed bin Musallam bin Rab’ie Hubais, Deputy Head of the Committee.

Cultural heritage The Committee’s members addressed some prohibitions that harm the Omani cultural heritage and conflict with teachings of the Islamic religion and the Omani customs and values. -ONA

Pakistan schools plan to take the help from Royal Oman Police

RAHUL DAS TARIQ ZIAD AL HAREMI

rahuldas@timesofoman.com tariqh@timesofoman.com

Chairman of the Board of Directors, Pakistan Schools in Oman, Adnan Shahzad.

MUSCAT: In the wake of the horrific road accident near the Hamirya roundabout, the Pakistan schools in Oman plan to conduct road safety training workshops at regular intervals in the schools from next year.

The Chairman of the Board of

Directors, Pakistan Schools in Oman, Adnan Shahzad said they plan to hold road safety training workshops at a regular intervals in all the Pakistan schools.

“For this we will get in touch with ROP so that they can assign

MUSCAT: British Embassy in Oman has said it is ‘delighted’ to be part of EduTraC Oman, the nation’s largest education, training and human resources convention, set to take place from October 18 to 20 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Speaking to the Times of Oman, Allison Young, commercial attaché for the British Embassy, said, “We at the British Embassy and the UK Department for International Trade, along with the British Council, are delighted to support the EduTraC Oman exhibition.”

“EduTraC Oman will assist in developing long-term partner-

Next academic session Ataullah Niazi, senior principal of Pakistan Schools in Oman, said road safety is a serious issue in Oman.

“Involving students in the workshops from the next academic session will be beneficial for the youngsters,” he said.

The Public Authority for Civil Defence and Ambulance and the Royal Oman Police regularly visit schools across the Sultanate to raise awareness about general

safety, as well as fire safety.

By teaching the students basic drills, such as using fire extinguishers, first aid and how to evacuate a building, children will be able to absorb the information faster while they are young and implement the skills they have learned when necessary.

Niazi, who is also a health and safety expert, said the Pakistan School Muscat (PSM) had raised the issue of child safety during the last academic year.

Zafeer Bin Munawar, who passed away on Sunday, was born in 2002 in Oman and hails from Karachi in Pakistan.

He joined Pakistan School Muscat in 2010 in Class IV and is survived by a brother and a sister.

“He wanted to become a chartered accountant when he grew up. But now everything is gone,” his father Munawar Hameed said.

PROBE ON

British Embassy delighted to be part of EduTraC Oman Gautam@timesofoman.com

an officer to train children, who travel alone on the roads,” he said.

At the moment, students are only asked to participate in fire safety drills.

“We had a safety drill at Pakistan School Nizwa on Sunday and recently we had one in Pakistan School Seeb. But now we are planning to hold road safety workshops regularly,” Shahzad stated.

For road safety drills,

E D UC AT I O NA L T I E S

GAUTAM VISWANATHAN

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ships between Omani students and UK educational institutions.

38 reputed British higher education institutions are exhibiting at EduTraC this week, and the United Kingdom’s pavilion has been organised by the British Council,” she added.

“Educational ties between the United Kingdom and the Sultanate have strengthened over the past few years. There are more Omani students opting to study in the United Kingdom than any other country,” she continued.

“This highlights that the relationship between our countries is not just historic, but also focused on the future through the development of talent of young Omanis and building personal relation-

ships that will be valuable for many years to come.”

The event has also gained the support of many international organisations, including Education USA, the British Council, the Ministry of Education and Culture—Cyprus, The Training Gateway and AIESEC Oman.

Representatives from the UK, the US, Malaysia, Cyprus, Lebanon, Qatar, Spain and India will be participating at EduTraC, which also serves as a recruitment expo for companies in the region.

The British Ambassador to Oman, Jonathan Wilks, will be attending the opening ceremony of the event, which is being held under the patronage of the Ministry of Manpower.

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A1 ‘Don’t speed on service roads’ Heartbroken father Munawar said: “My son was crossing the service road near Hamriya roundabout when he was hit by a car,” he said, adding that all drivers on Oman’s roads should look out for pedestrians.

“Drivers should not speed in service roads,” Munawar added.

Immediately after the accident, the Royal Oman Police arrived on the scene and found the school identity card of Zafeer in his school uniform. “Then they informed the father and the school authorities as the father’s mobile number was on the school identity card. Then they took him to Khoula Hospital,” Ataullah Niazi, Senior Principal of Pakistan Schools in Oman, said.

Dad Munawar, who works at a college in Barka, added: “Parents should ensure that children are not sent alone anywhere even if they

attain the age of 18 and if they are moving, they should always move in groups. My child completed his studies from Ruwi then his friends decided to take some other way to their homes.

“But he wanted to take the shorter route to come home directly when the accident happened,” he said.

A senior official of Royal Oman Police said inquiries into the accident were still on-going.

He added: “To cross the street safely, you must follow four rules.

The first being: stand somewhere safe, on a sidewalk for example.

Secondly, look both ways; if it is a two way street, look to the left first.

Third rule is to listen. Sometimes the street will have a curve and you couldn’t see the car coming so you must listen for it. The fourth rule is to walk in a straight line if the

street is deemed safe to cross,” said the ROP official.

Internationally, vehicles must stop at pedestrian crossings to allow people to cross the street but the ROP advises people against crossing using the white lines.

“In a lot of the Western nations, it is mandatory for a car to stop at white lines. However, I advise pedestrians not to cross because the culture here is different when it comes to driving. Drivers will not stop.”

Ataullah Niazi, Senior Principal of Pakistan Schools in Oman, said that Zafeer, the youngest in his class, was interested in playing football, badminton and cooking, apart from his studies.

His family buried the teenager in a ceremony on Monday evening.

— rahuldas@timesofoman.com tariqh@timesofoman.com

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

OMAN AZERBAIJAN

HM sends greetings MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has sent a cable of congratulations to President Ilham Heydar Aliyev of the Republic of Azerbaijan on the occasion of his country’s Independence Anniversary.

OPENS DOORS: Perched at 2,000 metres above sea level on the curving rim of a great canyon, the luxurious resort beckons visitors.

Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar opens its doors A total of 115 luxury guest rooms and villas overlook either the dramatic canyon or tranquil gardens

Times News Service MUSCAT: The Middle East’s highest five-star resort, the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar in Oman, has finally opened its doors to visitors.

Perched at 2,000 metres above sea level on the curving rim of a great canyon, the luxurious resort beckons travellers with an array of

inspirational experiences, immersing them into the rich culture, history and adventure of Oman.

A total of 115 luxury guest rooms and villas overlook either the dramatic canyon or tranquil gardens.

The resort’s 82 Premier and Deluxe Rooms boast a spacious bedroom, amongst the largest in the country, and a spa-like bathroom, complete with a rain shower and separate bath alongside a balcony.

Meanwhile, the 33 one-or twobedroom villas grant guests an intimate escape, each with personal villa host services and a private infinity pool overlooking the cliffs or hidden in an exotic garden.

For those who want to experience an uninterrupted view of the canyons, ferrata—a cliff hanging activity—has been made available at the doorstep of the hotel.

The nearby terrain is ideal for explorers, who want to discover the labyrinth of narrow roads via

mountain biking, wonder at the marvels of the canyon during a hike, abseil from a sheer cliff or try their hand at the ancient sport of archery, and enjoy heritage sites in the vicinity.

Restaurants Culinary desires are well catered for at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, with its collection of six restaurants and lounges.

Al Maisan, otherwise known as ‘The Rising Star’ allows guests to embark on a gastronomic journey around the world with live cooking stations from breakfast through to dinner, whilst Al Qalaa, translated as ‘The Fort’ showcases inventive Omani cuisine.

A range of unique and inspiring experiences led by Anantara’s renowned experts, known as ‘Gurus,’ will allow guests to explore the area and experience the local culture, while impressive facilities

include a cliff-edge infinity swimming pool, a tennis court, a fullyequipped gym and a children and teens club.

The Anantara Spa harnesses the essence of Arabia with ancient hamam rituals, as well as treatment rooms offering signature spa treatments using indigenous ingredients and traditions. In addition, extensive meeting and banqueting facilities can host weddings, events, conferences and team building activities.

Opening offer As a special opening offer, guests can choose a spacious canyon room or lavish pool villa and avail the introductory offer of 20 per cent off. In addition, guests can also explore the cuisine on offer with 20 per cent off food and beverages across the six outlets or relax in the Anantara Spa with 20 per cent off on all treatments.

R O YA L O R D E R

< FROM

A1 HM issues Decrees The system (bylaw) attached to this Decree shall apply to this fund. Article (2) stipulates that the Chairman of Board of Directors of the National Training Fund shall issue the regulations and decisions necessary for the implementation of provisions of the attached system after they are approved by the board of directors. Article (3) cancels all that contradicts this Decree and the attached system or contravenes with their provisions.

Article (4) says that this Decree shall be published in the Official Gazette and enforced on its date of issue.

Royal Decree No. 49/2016 appoints a chairman for the National Training Fund.

Article (1) appoints Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad bin Saif Al Rumhy as Chairman of the National Training Fund.

Article (2) says that this Decree shall be published in the Official Gazette and takes effect from its date of issue.

Royal Decree No. 50/2016 establishes an implementation and follow-up support unit.

Article (1) states that a unit to

be called the Implementation and Follow-up Support Unit shall be established and that it shall report to the Minister of the Diwan of Royal Court. Article (2) stipulates that the Implementation and Follow-up Support Unit shall have a legal entity, enjoy financial and administrative autonomy and have the capacity to own fixed and moveable assets, manage them and expend them.

Article (3) states that the System (bylaw) of the Implementation and Follow-up Support Unit shall be promulgated by Royal Decree. Article (4) says that this Decree shall be published in the Official Gazette and enforced on its date of issue.

Royal Decree No. 51/2016 appoints a chairman for the Implementation and Follow-up Support Unit.

Article (1) appoints Dr. Khamis bin Saif bin Hamoud Al Jabri as Chairman of the Implementation and Follow-up Support Unit, with a Minister’s Grade.

Article (2) says that this Decree shall be published in the Official Gazette and enforced on its date of issue. -ONA

In his cable, His Majesty the Sultan has expressed his sincere congratulations along with his best wishes of good health and happiness to President Aliyev and his country’s people further progress and prosperity. -ONA

WRITTEN MESSAGE FOR HM His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said received a written message from President Pierre Nkurunziza of Burundi.

The message was received by Dr. Mohammed bin Awadh Al Hassan, acting undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry for Diplomatic Affairs when he received yesterday Brigadier General Agricole Ntirampeba, envoy of the Burundi’s President to the Sultanate. -ONA

I N T E R NAT I O NA L L AW C O N F E R E N C E

Oman, Turkey ties cordial: Minister ISTANBUL: The Sultanate is taking part in the international law conference organised by the Ministry of Justice of Turkey.

The conference opened in Istanbul yesterday and will continue for three days.

Sheikh Abdul Malik bin Abdullah Al Khalili, Minister of Justice leads the Sultanate’s delegation, which includes Hussein bin Ali Al Hilali, Public Prosecutor, Advisor Majid bin Abdullah Al Alawi, Chairman of the Administrative Court, representatives of the Administrative judiciary Council, the Ministry of Legal Affairs and a number of officials at the Ministry of Justice.

The opening programme included a speech by the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Turkish Justice Minister and the Ministers of Justice in Azerbaijan, Afghanistan and So-

malia. The Minister of Justice attended a session titled “Justice and the Claim Rights” which was attended by a number of heads of delegations.

Sheikh Abdul Malik bin Abdullah Al Khalili, Minister of Justice stated that the participation of the Sultanate comes in recognition of the importance of the conference results, and its keenness on the initial positive contribution in all that would consolidate the law and the establishment of justice in all the individual, national and international transactions.

He said that Turkey’s hosting of the conference is another motive for the Sultanate’s participation, as the two countries maintain good and productive relations, noting that the importance of the conference is reflected in the legal issues being discussed. -ONA

68TH EDITION

Oman to take part in Frankfurt book fair MUSCAT: The Sultanate, represented by the Ministry of Information and the Ministry of Heritage and Culture, will take part in the 68th edition of Frankfurt International Book Fair 2016 scheduled to be held during October 19 to 23.

The Sultanate’s participation in the fair comes to highlight local publications, cultural, historic and heritage of the Sultanate, as well as various achievements of the Blessed Renaissance and increasing cultural communication with various countries. -ONA

PEIE

Workshop on anti-dumping MUSCAT: A workshop was organised yesterday to highlight the GCC unified law for anti-dumping and compensatory and preventive measures.

The workshop was organised by the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (PEIE), under the supervision of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with the Technical Secretariat to combat harmful practices in international trade of the Gulf Cooperation Council

(GCC). The event was held at the Knowledge Oasis Muscat under the auspices of Hilal bin Hamad Al Hasani, Chief Executive Officer of PEIE. Al Hasani stressed the importance of workshop in underlining topics related to anti-dumping measures and harmful practices, as well as highlighting samples from the office of Technical Secretariat to combat harmful practices in international trade in the GCC.

“The law represents an important step to help the industrial sector to overcome particular challenges. Industrialists can benefit from the workshop through necessary measures when import and export operations are taking place to and from the GCC countries. Those in-charge of the industrial sector have to work together to educate everyone and familiarise them with anti-dumping laws and regulations,” Al Hasani said. -ONA

T H A I K I N G ’ S D E AT H

A1 Tourist sites will remain open < FROM

Tourist attractions will be open as usual, with the exception of Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and the Grand Palace, as they will be the venue of the Royal Funeral Rites.

The Thai government has also asked for cooperation from entertainment venues to consider the opening of their business operations during this time. “The decision will be made by the individual

owners,” it said. In a statement, Jesda Katavetin, ambassador of Thailand to Oman said: “King Bhumibol Adulyadej had ruled the country with greatest magnanimity for 70 years. He is more than a King, and a beloved father of the nation. The hearts of all Thais are shattered with his passing. But with his loving soul around us, Thailand will emerge stronger and more unified as all Thais are striving to give our

last tribute to the greatest King.”

A book of condolence for King Bhumibol Adulyadej was placed for signing at the Royal Thai Embassy from 8 am to 3 pm on Sunday. It is open for both Thais and foreigners and will be there until Thursday.

More than 200 people came to pay respects and signed the condolence book, including the Ambassadors of the United States, Japan, Qatar, and Malaysia.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

A7

REGION Iraq launches Mosul offensive to oust IS Helicopters released flares and explosions could be heard on the city’s eastern front, where Kurdish fighters moved forward to take outlying villages ASSAULT BEGINS: Peshmerga forces in the east of Mosul to attack IS militants on Monday. –Reuters

EAST OF MOSUL/BAGHDAD: Iraqi government forces launched a US-backed offensive on Monday to drive IS from the northern city of Mosul, a high-stakes battle to retake the militants’ last major stronghold in the country.

Two years after the militants seized the city of 1.5 million people, a force of some 30,000 Iraqi and Kurdish Peshmerga forces and tribal fighters began to advance.

Helicopters released flares and explosions could be heard on the city’s eastern front, where Reuters watched Kurdish fighters move forward to take outlying villages. A US-led air campaign has helped push IS from much of the territory it held but 4,000 to 8,000 fighters are thought to remain in Mosul. Residents contacted by phone dismissed reports on Arabic television channels of an exodus by the militants, who have a history of using human shields and have threatened to unleash chemical weapons.

“Daesh (IS) are using motorcycles for their patrols to evade air detection, with pillion passengers using binoculars to check out buildings and streets,” said Abu Maher.

AL MARJEH AREA

Air strike kills 14 members of a family in Syria’s Aleppo BEIRUT: Fourteen members of one family were killed in an air strike in rebel-held eastern Aleppo on Monday, emergency service workers said, as the Syrian government pursued its drive to capture oppositionheld areas of the city.

A list of those killed in the city, published by the Civil Defence, included several infants, among them two six-week old babies and six other children aged eight or below.

The Civil Defence, a rescue service operating in rebel-held areas of Syria whose workers are known as “White Helmets”, identified the jets as Russian.

The attack hit Aleppo’s Al Marjeh area.

Later in the day, separate air strikes on the village of Awaijel west of Aleppo killed at least 23 people and the toll was expected to rise, Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group reported.

The Syrian government’s Moscow-backed campaign has killed several hundred people since it started last month after the collapse of a truce brokered

by Russia and the United States.

The Observatory said it had documented the deaths of 448 people in air strikes in eastern Aleppo since then, including 82 children. The Syrian and Russian armed forces say they only target militants.

A Syrian military source said the army had targeted terrorists in three areas of Aleppo on Monday, killing seven of them.

The government refers to all rebel fighters as terrorists.

The Observatory said 17 more people were killed in attacks by Russian jets on Sunday night in the Al Qarterji district of rebelheld Aleppo. That included five children, it said.

The monitoring group also said it had recorded the deaths of 82 people including 17 children in government-held areas of western Aleppo as a result of rebel shelling. — Reuters

He and others contacted were preparing makeshift defences and had been stockpiling food in anticipation of the assault, which officials say could take weeks or even months.

The United States predicted IS would suffer “a lasting defeat” as Iraqi forces mounted their biggest operation in Iraq since the 2003 invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein. But the offensive, which has assumed considerable importance for US President Barack Obama as his term draws to a close, is fraught with risks.

These include sectarian conflict between Mosul’s mainly population and advancing forces, and the potential for up to a million people to flee Mosul, multiplying a refugee crisis in the region and across Europe.

“We set up a fortified room in the house by putting sandbags to block the only window and we removed everything dangerous or flammable,” Abu Maher said.

“I spent almost all my money on buying food, baby milk and anything we might need.”

The United Nations’ humanitarian coordinator for Iraq said

the military had told the UN it expected the first significant population movement to begin in five to six days, suggesting that is when the assault would move to the city itself. Lise Grande said Iraqi security forces would transport fleeing civilians, who would be vetted to ensure IS fighters could not hide among them, following residents’ reports that militants had shaved off their beards to escape detection. Video showing rockets and bursts of tracer bullets across the night sky and loud bursts of gunfire was shown on Qatar-based Al Jazeera television after Prime Minister Haider Abadi announced what he called “the heroic operations to free you from the terror and oppression of Daesh (IS)”.

“We will meet soon on the ground in Mosul to celebrate liberation and your salvation,” Abadi said on state television, surrounded by commanders of the armed forces.

The commander of the coalition, US Lieutenant General Stephen Townsend, said the operation to take Iraq’s second largest city would likely continue for weeks, “possibly longer”.

“This is a decisive moment in the campaign to deliver ISIL (IS) a lasting defeat,” US Defence Secretary Ash Carter said in a statement. “We are confident our Iraqi partners will prevail against our common enemy and free Mosul and the rest of Iraq from IS’ hatred and brutality.”

The Iraqi Kurdish military command said 4,000 Peshmerga were taking part in an operation to clear several villages held by IS to the east of Mosul, in an attack coordinated with a push by Iraqi army units from the southern front. Massoud Barzani, president of Iraq’s Kurdistan region, said the operation, which he said was the first time the two forces had fought against IS together, had taken about 200 square km of farm land and villages east of Mosul from the militants on the first day.

The United Nations has said the battle would require the world’s biggest and most complex humanitarian effort, which could leave up to 1 million people homeless and see civilians used as human shields or even gassed. — Reuters

PA R L I A M E N TA RY P O L L S

Kuwait elections set for November 26 KUWAIT: The Kuwaiti cabinet announced on Monday that elections for the next parliament will be held on November 26, state news agency KUNA reported.

Kuwait’s emir ordered the dissolution of parliament on Sunday, saying “security challenges” in the

region could best be addressed by consulting the popular will. The agency quoted speaker Marzouq Al Ghanim as saying: “holding elections where Kuwait people will have the opportunity to express their opinion is a praiseworthy democratic practice”. — Reuters

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

INDIA DEMAND FOR ARREST

Protest in Bengaluru over murder of RSS worker BENGALURU: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) workers on Monday staged a protest against the gruesome murder of a local RSS functionary and demanded a fair probe into the case and immediate arrest of the culprits.

Rudresh, a 35-year old RSS worker, was hacked to death by two motorcycle-borne men who struck him with machete on Kamaraja Road on Sunday, when he was returning home on a bike after attending an RSS event.

RSS has called for a bandh (shut down) on Monday in Shivajinagar area, where the murder took place following which prohibitory orders have been clamped in four police station limits of the eastern zone of the city Commissionerate limits till midnight. Police said elaborate security arrangements had been made all over the city as a precautionary measure, adding that central forces have also been deployed.

Platoons of Karnataka State Reserve Police, City Armed Reserve, Rapid Action Force and Central Industrial security Force have been deployed, police said.

BJP and RSS workers led by former Deputy Chief Minister R Ashoka and Members of Parliament Shobha Karandlaje and PC Mohan and others, marched from Shivajinagar towards Police Commissioner’s office, but were stopped midway. Linking Rudresh’s murder to killing of BJP and RSS functionaries in different part of the country, Karandlaje said “there is a feeling that these killings are part of a planned conspiracy.”

Ashoka said the culprits should be nabbed first before they fled out of the city or state.

Home Minister G Parameshwara said, “Four to five teams have been formed to investigate.

Police will do their job. A few persons have already been taken into the custody, inquiry is on.”

He said “Rudres happens to be an RSS worker, other than that, we are not aware of anything about him. We will get to know the exact reasons for his killing only after the investigation.” Assuring BJP and RSS workers that police will conduct a fair investigation into the case, city Police Commissioner NS Megharikh said, “We will nab the culprits soon.” — PTI

India lauds Brazil’s support for actions to combat terror BIMSTEC calls for strong measures against countries backing, financing terror groups

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also thanked Brazilian President Michel Temer for ‘understanding India’s aspiration’ for membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group

BENAULIM (GOA): India on Monday appreciated Brazil’s support for its actions to combat terrorism and said the two countries agreed that the world must come together to fight the menace without distinction or discrimination.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also thanked Brazilian President Michel Temer for “understanding India’s aspiration” for membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).

“My country deeply appreciates Brazil’s support for India’s actions in combating terrorism,” Modi said after a bilateral meeting with Temer, who is here for the 8th BRICS Summit which concluded on Sunday.

“We agreed that the world must come together to fight this menace without distinction or discrimination,” the prime minister said.

He said India will continue to work with Brazil as an important partner in early adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT).

“Both bilaterally and multilaterally, the partnership between India and Brazil is filled with possibilities that we are keen to harvest,” he said.

Modi said the two countries made progress in opening new areas of cooperation in drug regulation, agricultural research and cyber security during Temer’s visit.

“I am happy to note that India and Brazil are close to finalising

MOBOR (GOA): The influential regional bloc BIMSTEC on Monday called for “strong” measures against nations which encourage, support and finance terror groups, provide sanctuaries to them and “falsely” extol their virtues.

There should not be any glorification of terrorists as “martyrs”, the grouping of Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal said.

The bloc said fight against terrorism should not only confine to disrupting and eliminating terror groups and their networks but states supporting them must also be punished.

An Outcome Document detailing deliberations among the BIMSTEC leaders at their retreat on Sunday night, said they condemned the recent “barbaric terror” attacks in the region in strongest terms, seen as a reference to Pathankot and Uri strikes.

“We strongly believe that our fight against terrorism should not only seek to disrupt and eliminate terrorists, terror organisations and networks, but should also identify, hold accountable and take strong measures against states which encourage, support and finance terrorism, provide

the text of a bilateral investment agreement. President Temer and I have reviewed the full range of bilateral cooperation,” he said.

Bilateral relations He said that the bilateral relations between India and Brazil have grown for the better and there has been increased interaction at all levels. “This visit (by Temer) takes place as both countries mark a decade of our strategic partnership,” the prime minister said.

PARLEYS: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the BIMSTEC leaders at a meeting in Mobor, Goa, on Sunday. – PTI

sanctuary to terrorists and terror groups, and falsely extol their virtues,” the grouping said in the document issued on Monday. It said the leaders stressed on urgent measures to counter terrorism.

“There should be no glorification of terrorists as martyrs.

We recognise the need for urgent measures to counter and prevent the spread of terrorism, violent extremism and radicalisation. We express our determination to take concrete measures to step up cooperation and coordination among our law enforcement, intelligence and security

Modi and the Brazilian leader also witnessed exchange of four cross-sectoral MoUs between the two countries.

The first MoU is on genetic resources, agriculture, animal husbandry, natural resources and fisheries while the second one is on pharma products regulation.

The third MoU is on cattle genomics and assisted reproductive technologies and the fourth is on investment cooperation and facilitation treaty. “We thank

organisations,” it said.

The strong position of BIMSTEC in dealing with terror assumes significance as it comes after consensus eluded on reference to cross-border terror in BRICS declaration.

“Recognising that terrorism continues to remain the single most significant threat to peace and stability in our region, we reiterate our strong commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and stress that there can be no justification for acts of terror on any grounds whatsoever,” BIMSTEC said. — PTI

Brazil for understanding India’s aspiration for membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group. We’ve made progress in cooperation in new areas including drug regulation, agri research and cyber security. Will work closely at UN, G20, G4, WTO, BRICS and IBSA,” Modi said.

He said he was honoured to welcome Temer to India.”I am delighted that Goa with its distinct Portuguese heritage is part of his maiden visit here,” he said.

The prime minister said bilaterally and multilaterally, partnership between India and Brazil is filled with possibilities that the two countries were keen to harvest. Modi thanked the Brazilian leader for positively considering request of greater market access and investment opportunities for Indian products and companies.

“President Temer and I met with our CEOs and are encouraged at steps they are taking to advance pragmatic collaboration.

“India can be a valuable partner in reviving Brazil’s domestic economic agenda. I welcome Brazilian companies to invest and forge long term partnerships,” he said Modi said the two sides have finalised text of a bilateral investment agreement and it will provide momentum to increased bilateral business and investment linkages.

“Noting potential, we have agreed to scale up our engagement. This is in line with our mutual desire for a reinforced strategic partnership.

“We mark a decade of our strategic partnership. We are also joined together in shaping international context to support our common pursuits and endeavors,” he said.

Earlier, Modi welcomed Temer to Goa, saying, “We are natural partners linked by democracy, rule of law and shared aspirations for development, peace and prosperity.” “As part of our businesslevel meetings here, we noted that there is a keen interest on part of Brazilian business community to invest in India,” Brazilian President Michel Temer said. “We are also encouraging Indian investors to invest in Brazil,” he said.

Temer also congratulated Modi for the “very successful” BRICS Summit. “We all know that India in the past few years has experienced very substantial changes,” he said, adding, it was another coincidence.

“Currently in Brazil, we are also setting out to changing our country beyond recognition,” he said.

“Both our countries are among the world’s largest democracies...We have a global presence,” the Brazilian President added.

“Brazil and India have worked jointly at the UN level. We will send technical missions to visit India in areas of shared specific interest,” Temer said. — PTI

BANGKOK-BASED AIRLINES

I N TA M I L NA D U

Farmers, opposition parties block Thai Smile Airways starts flights to trains over Cauvery water issue CHENNAI: Farmers and opposition parties in the south eastern Indian Tamil Nadu state on Monday staged rail roko (train blockade) agitation at various places in the state demanding the Centre to constitute the Cauvery Management Board immediately.

The protests were held against the stance of Bharatiya Janata Party-led Union government in the Supreme Court which opposed immediate setting up of the Board.

Thousands of protestors participated in the train blockade demonstrations, who courted arrest and were lodged in the community and marriage halls, police said.

The agitations marked the beginning of a 48-hour rail blockade by farmers outfits which has the support of opposition parties including the DMK, Tamil Nadu Congress, IUML, CPI(M), CPI, MDMK and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi.

Farmer leader and chief of National South Indian Rivers InterLinking Farmers Association P Ayyakannu led the protest in Tiruchirappalli by squatting over the railway track in Kudamuratti bridge area.

Ryots squatted on railway tracks with green turbans and planted paddy seedlings in the narrow gap between railway tracks. They managed to block trains briefly but were removed later by police.

“We will continue our stir. Tomorrow (Tuesday) too this will be held.

We plan to block Vaigai Super Fast Express. We urge the Centre to not make us paupers, (by adopting a stance against CMB)” Ayyakannu told PTI. Similar protests witnessed huge participation of people in the entire Cauvery Delta region of the state including Tiruchirappalli,

Gaya and Varanasi

DEMONSTRATION: MDMK chief Vaiko, CPM leader G Ramakrishnan and others stage a rail roko (train blockade) at the Central Railway station demanding the constitution of a Cauvery management board, in Chennai, on Monday. – PTI

Thanjavur and Tiruvarur districts. DMK treasurer and Leader of Opposition M K Stalin led the protest at Perambur suburban railway station in which scores of his party legislators and functionaries took part.

Leading the protestors, he blocked a suburban train, following which he along with party cadres was taken away by police from the railway station. MDMK chief Vaiko and CPI(M) State Secretary G Ramakrishnan squatted on railway track at the busy Chennai Central Railway station.

Similarly, CPI State Secretary R Mutharasan participated in a rail roko stir in Tiruvarur district.

Meanwhile, reports from Madurai said, train services in Ma-

durai and Tiruchirappalli divisions were affected as hundreds of farmers and members of various political parties blocked or attempted to block the rail traffic at various places, demanding constitution of the Cauvery Management Board.

Officials said, the train services were delayed by 10 minutes to half an hour. Madurai City Police resorted to lathicharge to disperse a strong crowd belonging to various opposition parties, when they insisted on staging a rail roko and attempted to enter the railway junction, they said.

Around five persons suffered simple injuries in the lathi charge.

Leader of South Indian River Linking Movement, Ayyakannu

was arrested at Kudamurutti Kudisai while he blocked the rail tracks on Tiruchi-Karur section.

Party members and farmers put up a hut on the track to block the train near Kudamurutti.

Hundreds of DMK cadres blocked the train traffic in Pudukottai. In Cuddalore, over 700 farmers and cadres of political parties tried to enter the railway station for staging a rail roko agitation.Police had to resort to mild lathicharge to disperse the crowd.

Nearly 300 persons were arrested, police said.

In Erode district, several farmers and opposition party workers who attempted to enter the Erode Railway Station were arrested by the police. — PTI

NEW DELHI: Spreading its wings into India, Southeast Asian carrier Thai Smile Airways has commenced operations to two cities, Gaya and Varanasi, from Bangkok, while its flights to Jaipur, Ahmedabad and Lucknow are set to be rolled out by the year end.

The expansion of services into the Indian market is part of Thai Smile’s ambitious growth programme to develop network and ensure international connectivity, the airline said on Monday.

The Bangkok-based Thai Smile is the regional arm of Thailand’s national airline Thai Airways.

It operates to nine domestic and five international destinations from its two bases — Suvarnabhumi International Airport and Don Muang International Airport — with a fleet of 20 Airbus A320 planes. The services to Gaya and Varanasi have already begun from October 1, while those to Jaipur and Ahmedabad are scheduled to be rolled out in a phased manner from November 15 and December 1, respectively.

The Bangkok-Lucknow flight services will be rolled out on December 17, the airline said in a release. Thai Smile will carry out India operations with 166-seater A320 aircraft in two cabin-classes, offering 12 seats in premium economy and the rest 154 in economy with in-flight entertainment specially designed Indian cuisine and beverages to passengers.

Strategic destinations “We consider these connecting flights as one of our strategic destinations in Indian region. Thai Smile Airways is undertaking an ambitious growth programme to

The services to Jaipur and Ahmedabad are scheduled to be rolled out in a phased manner from November 15 and December 1, respectively. The Bangkok-Lucknow flight services will be rolled out on December 17

develop network and ensure international connectivity. Moreover, we are committed to ensuring that our passengers have greater choice and opportunity to discover new destinations by flying with Thai Smile Airways,” Thai Smile’s acting Chief Executive Officer Woranate Laprabang said.

“The airline understands the need for passengers travelling among these five cities,” he said, adding, “We continue to expand international routes and increase flight frequency to facilitate the passengers.”

These flights will bridge the demand of both Indians and Thais, who have been looking for seamless connections for religion, work and leisure purpose, in Thailand, India and onward destinations, the airline said. — PTI

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SOUTHERN PUNJAB

At least 30 killed as two buses collide KARACHI: At least 30 people were killed in Pakistan when two buses collided in southern Punjab province, police said on Monday.

Images from the crash site showed a bus on its side with its windows shattered, and another bus with its roof partly caved in.

Near Rahim Yar Khan Officials said the buses collided at about 6 am(0100 GMT) near Rahim Yar Khan, a Punjab city about 600km south of provincial capital Lahore.

“Death toll has climbed to 30,” Hassan Iqbal, police inspector of Rahim Yar Khan, told Reuters.

Rescuers earlier said more than 30 people were injured in the crash.

Rules rarely enforced Fatal road accidents are common in Pakistan, where traffic rules are rarely enforced and roads in many rural areas are poor.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s office said he has “expressed deep grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives”. — Reuters

PAKISTAN

PTI sets November 2 as new date for Islamabad lockdown Imran Khan on September 30’s ‘Raiwind March’ gave the prime minister time till Muharram to ‘either present himself for accountability or allow state institutions to take action against him, failing which the Pakistan Tehreek-e-InsafI will bring the federal capital to a standstill’

Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf chairman Imran Khan said we have changed the date as the Supreme Court Bar Association’s elections are scheduled on October 31

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan said on Monday his party will shut the federal capital on November 2 instead of the previously announced date of October 30.

“After lengthy deliberations it has now finally decided that we will move ahead with our plan to lock Islamabad down on November 2,” Imran told reporters after a party meeting in Islamabad.

“We have changed the date as

the Supreme Court Bar Association’s elections are scheduled on October 31.”

Hitting out at the prime minister over his ‘corruption’ and ‘stolen money’ as revealed in the Panama Papers, the PTI chairman

invited people ‘suppressed by corruption’ from across the country to take a stand and join the protest in Islamabad.

Imran on September 30’s ‘Raiwind March’ gave the prime minister time till Muharram to “either

R S 4 0 0 - M I L L I O N R E N O VAT I O N

panded and modernised the kitchen, upgraded the sewerage system within the main building, built new washrooms, constructed security huts, repaired the existing internal retaining walls as well as the external boundary of the rest house.

LAHORE: The cancellation of the 19th SAARC summit has had an unintended victim. The Punjab government’s Rs400-million renovation of the Murree Government House has gone to waste with the cancellation of the regional moot.

The 19th summit of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was originally scheduled in Islamabad on November 15-16 but following diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan, the moot has been postponed for an indefinite period.

The government had renovated the entire exterior as well as the interior décor of the historic building of early post-modern architecture with a mix of Edwardian character.

HIGH COST: The 19th summit of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation was originally scheduled in Islamabad on November 15-16 but following diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan, the moot has been postponed for an indefinite period. — Express Tribune

building and its antique-style interior.

Official documents show the government issued three main tenders with an accumulated cost of Rs235 million with Rs91 million reserved for internal civil works; Rs48 million for external civil works, construction of a

kitchen and Public Health Engineering Design; and Rs96 million set aside for heating and cooling of the space.

In addition, the government also procured new, high-definition CCTV system, over a dozen 40- and 60-inch smart LED televisions; high-speed optical fibre

BILLIONS IN DEBT

Underdog businessman Dewan Yousuf gearing up for comeback ISTANBUL: Up until the mid2000s, the Yousuf Dewan Companies (YDC) was one of the biggest business conglomerates in Pakistan. It had business interests in sugar, artificial thread, textile, cement, automobiles and even the import of fertiliser.

But the group borrowed truckloads of money to fuel its extraordinary expansion. Mismanagement, the economic slowdown and banks’ non-lenient approach resulted in the fall. The companies made the cardinal sin — defaulting on loan repayments.

That made YDC, formerly known as the Dewan Group, the single largest defaulter of Pakistani banks.

The debt involved was estimated to be over Rs40 billion.

Since then the group chairman and chief executive, Dewan Yousuf Farooqui, has helplessly watched his businesses struggle.

Bankers refused to give him money to buy raw material. The plants, many of them new and built just a few years before the default, shuttered.

Now Dewan Yousuf is slowly making a comeback — a slow one, but a gradual one.

He’s doing that in two ways: by being pragmatic enough to part away from his prized possessions to settle the group’s debt.

And focusing on reviving the automobile unit where there’s hope of making money.

present himself for accountability or allow state institutions to take action against him, failing which the PTI will bring the federal capital to a standstill”.

“Six months have gone past but a ‘criminal’ continues to rule this country,” the cricketer-turnedpolitician claimed in a veiled reference to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. He lamented there had been no serious investigations into the Panama Papers leaks.

The PTI leader warned the prime minister that his party was fully prepared to counter any obstruction that the government might pose in way of the protesters.

“We wrote to all opposition parties, asking them to join the protest; however, it seems none of them had an interest in joining the campaign against corruption.”

He also admitted that the people of the capital city may have to face inconvenience during the protest, but urged them to render “this sacrifice to be able to bring about a change”. — Express Tribune N E A R J E WA N I

Without SAARC, Murree house overhaul in vain

High-profile architects Punjab government’s urban sector planning arm, The Urban Unit, had prepared and procured the ‘Conservation/Restoration of Government House Murree Project’, while the National College of Arts was among its lead consultants.

High-profile architects, engineers, interior designers and artisans were hired to manufacture, restore and conserve the historic

A9

DEFAULTER: The group owes Rs38 billion to multiple Pakistani banks. — Express Tribune

One of his companies, Dewan Cement, recently announced that a Chinese company is reviewing its financial record for a possible takeover.

Another unit of the group – Dewan Salman Fiber (DSF) – is in the process of being liquidated.

Once the flagship business of the group, DSF’s machinery is now rusted and the colony of workers that used to house thousands abandoned. But the company sits on a valuable 140 acres of land in Hattar Industrial Estate in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

“I am giving this my best shot.

Talks with banks have gone on for a long time and we are finally on the same page,” Yousuf told The Express Tribune.

“So I guess that’s the message … we are coming back. Let’s hope everything works out.”

The group owes Rs38 billion to multiple Pakistani banks. It intends to settle part of that debt by

selling a majority stake in Dewan Cement to Anhui Conch besides liquidating DSF and a textile unit in Kotri.

Anhui Conch is China’s largest cement manufacturer. Its entry in the Pakistani market at this time should not come as a surprise considering billions of dollars that Beijing has committed to invest in roads and other projects in Pakistan through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

Dewan Cement has two plants – one in Karachi and the other in Hattar. This gives it leverage over a few other competitors as it can cover a bigger market across the length of the country.

But if Anhui Conch decides to acquire Dewan Cement, it would still need to invest heavily to ramp up production.

The production capacity of Pakistan’s cement industry has more than doubled in the past 10 years. Bogged down by debt issues, Dewan Cement has not been able to keep pace.

For Dewan Yousuf, it’s a good deal. He bought Dewan Cement in 2004 from late Tariq Mohsin Siddiqui, the eccentric and flamboyant businessman who was way ahead of competitors in early 1990s.

Since Dewan Group’s debt crisis emerged, there were talks of selling the cement plant in Hattar – that wouldn’t have fetched a lot of money. — Express Tribune

network, a satellite phone, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors along with modern language and interpretation systems.

Project documents show the government constructed a new dining room and a store next to the kitchen on the lower level, extended the existing barbeque lawn, ex-

Tender cancelled Recently, Lahore’s Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) also floated a tender with an estimated cost of Rs11 million for the soft landscaping of the Murree house and its adjoining areas.

However, the authority had to cancel the tender earlier this month after the SAARC summit was cancelled.

In official documents, the government reasoned that the rest house’s condition has dilapidated over the past years and its conservation and restoration to its original grandeur was of vital importance. The prime minister has termed the building a historical marvel, which should be preserved and restored in a befitting manner.

The restoration and conservation of the building was among the significant projects proposed under the “Murree Development Initiatives” announced earlier this year. — Express Tribune

Iranian forces seize 20 Pakistani fishing boats QUETTA: Iranian maritime forces seized 20 Pakistani fishing boats and their crew off Makran coast in the Arabian Sea on Sunday.

The Iranian forces intercepted the vessels when their crew were fishing near Jewani, well within the territorial waters of Pakistan, according to official sources.

“The Iranians impounded 20 fishing boats, with 100 fishermen on board, and took them to the Iranian coastal town of Pasabandan,” one source told The Express Tribune.

“The Iranian forces violated Pakistan’s sea limits.”

Fishermen in Jewani strongly reacted to the detention of their colleagues and demanded that Pakistan lodge a strong protest over the incident.

A fishermen’s delegation, headed by Chairman Municipal Committee Jewani Manzoor Baloch, met officials of the Pakistan Coast Guards, Fisheries Department and Pakistan Customs and apprised them of the ‘illegal action’ of the Iranian forces. The incident was also reported to Gwadar’s deputy commissioner. — Express Tribune

A 12

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

WORLD MEDIA REPORTS

GERMANY CHEMICAL FACTORY FIRE Fire and smoke rise from the factory of chemicals giant BASF in Ludwigshafen, Germany where several people had been injured following an explosion, on Monday. — Reuters

‘Thai king’s death will not delay polls’ BANGKOK: The death of Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej will not affect plans to hold a general election in 2017, media reported on Monday, dismissing speculation that the military government would delay the poll as the country enters a year of mourning.

Thais continued to flock from across the country to the Grand Palace in Bangkok to pay their respects to the king, a beloved father figure who died on Thursday after seven decades on the throne.

Officials said they expected tens of thousands every day at the palace and, with so many arriving in Bangkok from the provinces, the city administration has ordered youth centres and public gyms to provide free accommodations.

The death of the world’s longestreigning monarch had raised questions over whether the junta would delay elections paving the way for a return to civilian rule. However, the Bangkok Post newspaper reported the poll would proceed as planned.

“The government has reaf-

SHENZHOU II

China launches manned space mission SHANGHAI: China launched its longest manned space mission on Monday, sending two astronauts into orbit to spend a month aboard a space laboratory that is part of a broader plan to have a permanent manned space station in service around 2022.

The Shenzhou 11 blasted off on a Long March rocket at 7:30am (2330 GMT) from the remote launch site in Jiuquan, in the Gobi desert, in images carried live on state television.

The astronauts will dock with the Tiangong 2 space laboratory, or “Heavenly Palace 2”, which was sent into space last month. It will be the longest stay in space by Chinese astronauts, state media reported. Early on Monday, Fan Changlong, a vice chairman of China’s powerful Central Military Commission, met astronauts Jing Haipeng and Chen Dong and wished them well, state news agency Xinhua reported.

Space dream “You are going to travel in space to pursue the space dream of the Chinese nation,” Fan said. “With all the scientific and rigorous training, discreet preparation, and rich experience accumulated from previous missions, you will accomplish the glorious and tough task... We wish you success and look forward to your triumphant return.”

Shenzhou 11 is the third space voyage for Jing, who will command the mission and celebrate his 50th birthday in orbit. — Reuters

firmed its commitment to following the roadmap for general elections scheduled for late next year,” the newspaper said.

Weerachon Sukondhapatipak, a spokesman for the military government, declined to comment.

“This is not the time to discuss politics,” he told Reuters.

Work as normal The government has stressed since the king’s death that the economy and government will work as normal, and it has sought to dispel uncertainty over the succession.

Thais voted overwhelmingly in August to accept a military-backed constitution, which critics say could enshrine military power for years to come.

Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam told reporters the constitution would be sent to the palace for approval - considered a formality - no later than early November.

“The crown will have 90 days to consider it,” Wissanu said. — Reuters

Saudi says prepared for truce in Yemen if Houthis agree The United States and Britain called on Sunday for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire between Houthis and the Saudi-backed, internationally recognised government

LONDON: Saudi Arabia is prepared to agree to a ceasefire in ATTACK SITE: A community hall is seen during a visit by activists to the hall that was struck by an air Yemen if the Houthis agree, Saudi strike during a funeral on October 8, in Sanaa, Yemen, on Sunday. — Reuters Foreign Minister Adel Al Jubeir said on Monday, adding that he was sceptical about efforts for on Sunday for an immediate and cism. But we are prepared, the and said the conflict in Yemen was peace after previous ceasefire at- unconditional ceasefire between Yemeni government is prepared, causing increasing international Houthis and the Saudi-backed, to agree to a cessation of hostili- concern. tempts had failed.

“The fatalities that we’re seerecognised ties if the Houthis agree to it. The The Saudi-led military cam- internationally coalition countries will respect the ing there are unacceptable,” paign in Yemen has faced heavy government.

“We would like to see a ceasefire desire of the Yemeni government,” Johnson said. criticism since an air strike this Since March 2015 Saudi Aramonth on a funeral gathering in yesterday,” Jubeir told reporters Jubeir said. bia and several Gulf Arab allies the Yemeni capital Sanaa that in London. “Everybody wants a have carried out air strikes in killed 140 people according to a ceasefire in Yemen, nobody more Concern United Nations’ estimate and 82 so than the kingdom of Saudi Ara- British Foreign Secretary Bo- support of the government of Abd ris Johnson, together with US Rabbu Mansour Al Hadi against bia and the coalition members.” according to the Houthis.

He accused the Houthis of re- Secretary of State John Kerry, Houthi fighters, who are backed The United States and Britain, which have both supported neging on previous deals. “So yes, met Jubeir and officials from the by troops loyal to ex-President Ali the Saudi-led campaign, called we come at this with a lot of cyni- United Arab Emirates on Sunday Abdullah Saleh. Gulf states have

The momentum is going against them (Houthis) in Yemen. They’re losing more territory, more people are mobilised against them.

They are not paying their bills, businesses are not extending credit to them Adel Al Jubeir Saudi Foreign Minister

also deployed troops in Yemen.

The Houthis still control Sanaa and large areas of northern and western Yemen, but Jubeir said it was a matter of time before they were defeated.

Jubeir said Saudi Arabia was being very careful to abide by humanitarian law in the Yemen conflict.

He said that those responsible for the funeral bombing would be punished and victims would be compensated. — Reuters

H E A D I N G T O WA R D S E U R O P E

Egypt passes law to curb trafficking of migrants CAIRO: Egypt passed legislation on Monday to crack down on people traffickers linked to a major surge in the numbers of migrants departing from the country’s Mediterranean coast on often disastrous sea journeys to Europe.

A boat carrying about 450 people capsized off Egypt’s coast last month. About 202 bodies were subsequently recovered from the sea and 169 people rescued.

Some 320 migrants and refugees drowned off the Greek island of Crete in June, and survivors said their boat had set sail from Egypt.

The law passed by the Egyptian parliament is the first major official step by the largest Arab nation towards developing a strategy to combat what has turned into a growing smuggling industry along its northern seaboard.

After Turkey cut a deal with the European Union to stop the flow of migrants from its terri-

tory to the continent, increasing numbers sought to cross to Italy from the North African coast this summer, especially from lawless Libya where people traffickers operate with relative impunity.

But more and more migrant boats now set off from Egypt, diplomats and non-governmental groups that work with migrants say. The new law imposes prison terms and fines on those found guilty of smuggling potential migrants or acting as brokers or middlemen. It also imposes prison sentences on those who provide shelter to trafficked migrants, and gather, transport or otherwise facilitate their journey. While seeking to stifle the lucrative trade, the law also makes provisions to protect the rights of migrants to humanitarian treatment and access to healthcare and legal assistance, with special emphasis on women and children.

The law also stipulates the creation of a cabinet-level com-

mittee headed by Prime Minister Sherif Ismail dedicated to coordinating various national and international efforts for the prevention of illegal migration and human trafficking.

Egypt has had a law against human trafficking but the new legislation deals more specifically with illegal migrants. Migration experts who saw the law in draft form said it was clearer than previous statutes and could make it easier to prosecute smugglers and others involved in their networks.

“This is the first law on smuggling of migrants in the Middle East,” said Naela Gabr, head of the National Coordinating Committee on Combating and Preventing Illegal Migration. “It includes a definition of smuggling of migrants. We were lacking such a definition in our law and accordingly the smugglers used to escape ... and there are the sanctions that could reach up to 25 years in prison,” Gabr said. — Reuters

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

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Like its Indian counterpart, Pakistani media, too, has been swayed by hyper-nationalism lately, and as a result of the bedlam, Indian films have been temporarily banned although several Pakistani artistes — like the courageous Salman Khan on the Indian side — have spoken out against treating art and artistes as a “soft target”

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READERS’ FORUM Parents will wholeheartedly accept the transport fee This refers to the story, Indian school announces safe transport fee (October 17). The implementation of the new safe transport system for ISM students is a good step towards the safety of the school children. Though belated in realising such necessary safety requirements in school transport, the Board of Directors of Indian schools should be appreciated for this However, the monthly transport fee seems a bit high, especially from Ruwi and Darsait.

Hopefully, considering the safety of the children, parents will wholeheartedly accept the transport fee. — P A Jacob, Muscat 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 e-mail (akhtar@ timesofoman.com).

Never too late to fulfill dreams This refers to the Facebook post, Nepal‘s oldest student is determined to make up for lost time (October 17). Good for him, it is never too late to catch up, never too late to fulfill those dreams, I wish him every success. — Linda Marisa Mole , via Facebook

MOHAMED A. EL ERIAN

It is not a good idea to signal the dismantling of longstanding financial tenets without simultaneously proposing a credible alternative. The longer the UK government continues to promote the first message without providing direction on its future plans, the greater the stagflationary risk to the UK economy

Only for self satisfication This refers to the Facebook post, Nepal‘s oldest student is determined to make up for lost time (October 17). In my opinion, lost time is lost as one cannot catch it. This is only for self satisfication. — Syed Parvez , via Facebook

NEW INDIA ASSURANCE

“Insure with New India and be secure”

Tel: 24838800 | Fax: 24838899 | Email: niamct@omantel.net.om | Website: www.newindiaoman.com Minds, like bodies, will often fall into a pimpled, ill-conditioned state from mere excess of comfort.

CHARLES DICKENS

T

he European banking sector is crippled and highly fragmented. Though its problems are more acute for some countries and financial institutions, the sector runs on a level of profitability that is, on average, lower than its cost of equity and maintains a stock of non-performing loans and hard-to-value assets large enough to undermine its capitalisation for years to come. Italy is a case in point. Not only is its dysfunctional banking sector undermining economic recovery and inhibiting investment; the sector’s troubles are the sharp end of a problem that affects the entire eurozone.

By the spring of 2012, it had become clear that the European banking system was a critical weak point in the euro’s architecture. Common banking supervision, a centralised resolution framework, and a mutualised deposit-guarantee scheme were understood to be necessary pillars of the eurozone. It was thought that these measures would help in the short term to accelerate bank repair, and that they would end financial fragmentation, establish a level playing field, reduce the risk of future banking crises, and ultimately contain and share the costs of banking failures.

But the road to hell is paved with good intentions. The European banking union, in its current state, is not only incomplete; its design flaws have made it a source of inaction and instability potentially worse than the ills it was intended to cure.

The deposit-guarantee scheme, for example, shows no sign of progress, and the debates on the single resolution fund and its lack of a public backstop to deal with large-scale banking distress are going nowhere.

Finally, the bail-in rules were introduced before banks could issue enough bail-in-able debt.

These sequencing issues can and should be addressed over time. But there are far more troubling problems with the conceptual foundation of the banking union itself, in particular with its resolution framework.

Since 2007, EU countries have provided in excess of €675 billion ($757 billion) in capital and repayable loans and €1.3 trillion in guarantees to financial institutions in distress, so the desire to limit bailouts is understandable. This concern is all the more legitimate, given that bailouts have

often hampered restructuring, resolution, and consolidation to preserve existing banking interests and practices, thereby delaying the necessary repair of balance sheets and zombifying the European banking system.

To be sure, international experience shows that public resources are sometimes necessary to minimize costs and hasten consolidation.

But the logic of isolated intervention ignores the interconnectedness of the system, whereby distress in one large institution often creates spill-over effects that feed destabilising systemwide runs. That is why successful interventions in Spain and Ireland were comprehensive and required large amounts of national and European resources to establish a “bad bank” and ensure a system-wide subsequent triage of assets, recapitalisation, and consolidation.

Although these programmes’ comprehensive nature explains their success, neither the Banking Recovery and Resolution Directive nor the Single Resolution Board (SRB) are designed to put in place such systemic responses. In fact, the SRB even lacks the executive authority to implement its decisions, which are carried out by national authorities. It also lacks the ability to ensure that bank resolutions are accompanied by the necessary preventive steps in the rest of the banking system. In short, the European banking resolution framework has confiscated the tools for intervention from national authorities (which was the right thing to do), without recreating them at the European level.

As a result, neither national governments nor European authorities are empowered to act.

This leaves the Italian authorities with a limited set of options. A unilateral blanket bailout would stress the banking union, stretch public finances, and leave the Italian banking system with its structural weakness. Alternatively, they could also maintain the current piecemeal approach, which has essentially committed small amounts of public resources and forced the stronger banks to support the weaker ones. But this strategy cannot work for large institutions.. - Project Syndicate

CLIPPINGS FROM OUR ARCHIVES OCTOBER 2001 Moosa honours community health support groups SOHAR: Dr Ali bin Mohammed Al Moosa, health minister yesterday presided over a celebration organised by the Directorate-General of Health Services in northern Batinah region to honour the community health support groups in the regions wilayats. Director-General of Health Services in the region Mohammed bin Ali Al Shizawai delivered a speech in which he hailed the role of these groups in the various wilayats of the region.

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PICTOGRAPH

PUBLIC FINANCE NET OIL REVENUE (in million Omani Rials) Total end of May 2015

2016

2,325.9

1,287.1

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

Send us your article along with your picture to akhtar@timesofoman.com

1867: The Alaska territory is formally transferred to the U.S. from Russian control.

1918: Czechs seize Prague and renounce Hapsburg’s rule 0

1919: Madrid opens a subway system.

1939: President Franklin D. Roosevelt bans war submarines from US ports and waters.

Net revenues after the transfer to Reserve funds.

Source National Centre for Statistics & Information

A14

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

LIFESTYLE DINING STUFFED IDLI Here’s a colourful idli recipe that’s packed with the goodness of vegetables. Cheers to healthy and delicious eating.

Ingredients • Idli batter: as required For Stuffing • 1 onion, finely chopped • 1 carrot, grated • 10 beans, finely chopped • 1/2 capsicum, finely chopped • 1 green chilli, chopped finely • 1 teaspoon chilli powder • 1 tablespoon coriander powder • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder • Salt to taste For Tempering • 1 tablespoon oil • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds • 1 teaspoon chana dal • 1 teaspoon urad dal 1 bunch of curry leaves Preparation • Start by making the filling. Heat oil in a wok. Add all the tempering ingredients and sauté for a minute. Add in onions and green chilli and mix well. Cook for 2 minutes.

• Add in chilli, coriander, salt, and turmeric powder and mix well. Add in all the vegetables and sauté for 5 minutes.

• Pour a splash of water and mix well. Cover the pan and let it cook for 10 minutes. Filling is done.

• Now take your idli plates and grease it. Spoon a tablespoon of batter in the bottom and spoon in a tablespoon of this vegetable mixture on top. Now spoon a tablespoon of batter again on top. Make sure that everything is totally covered.

Put this in the idli stand and let it steam for 15 minutes.

• Invert it on the plate and serve with chutney.

MANY WAYS OF IDLIS Recipe and Photos : Oneza Tabish

IDLI MANCHURIAN A classic fusion of Indian and Chinese cuisines that makes perfect use of leftover idlis.

Ingredients • 8 refrigerated idlis • 1/2 cup cornflour • 1/2 cup plain flour • 1 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce • 1/2 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste • Oil to deep fry For gravy • 1 big sized onion • 4 green chillies • 2cm piece of ginger • 1 capsicum (optional) • 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce • 1 tablespoon oil • 2 tablespoon cornflour • 1/2 cup chopped spring onions

OATS AND SEMOLINA IDLI A healthy take on idlis with oats and semolina as its key ingredients making it a guilt free ride.

Ingredients • 11/2 cup quick cooking oats • 1/2 cup semolina • 21/2 cups yoghurt, whisked smooth • 1/2 cup water • 1/4 teaspoon fruit salt • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds • 1 teaspoon gram dal • 6-7 cashew nuts, broken • 2 green chillies • 10-12 curry leaves • 2 teaspoons ghee Preparation • Dry roast the measured oats till aromatic and it slightly changes in colour. Grind to a fine powder.

• Dry roast the semolina and remove it to a bowl. Add the oats powder to it.

• Add the measured yoghurt and salt. Mix well and set aside.

• Heat ghee in a pan and temper with mustard, gram dal, green chillies, cashew nuts, and curry leaves. Add to the oats-semolina batter.

• Mix well and add 1/2 cup water. The batter should be slightly loose than regular idli batter. Set aside for 15-20 minutes. Add fruit salt just before steaming and mix well.

• Grease the idli plate and fill each hole 3/4 level with batter.

• Steam the idlis for 10-12 minutes, serve instant oats idli with chutney and sambhar.

Preparation • Cut idlis into small squares. Or you can use mini idlis also.

• Mix the other ingredients –flour, cornflour, ginger-garlic paste and very little salt with water to a medium batter. Dip idli pieces in this batter and deep fry. Drain and keep ready.

Finely chop onion, green chillies, ginger, and capsicum.

• In a vessel heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Lightly fry all the chopped ingredients.

• Add 1/2 teaspoon soya sauce and fried idlis. Add cornflour mixed with 2 cups of water.

• Boil till all the ingredients combine well.

• Garnish with chopped spring onions greens and serve.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

WEATHER

TEMPERATURE

HUMIDITY

36 - 22 61-25% 0

0

PRAYER TIMINGS

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

11.57pm 3.16pm 5.44pm 6.54pm 4.50am

A15

LIFESTYLE

This Weekend Eat At….

Where Khana Khazana Must Eat Triple Schezwan Fried Rice What Is It? While we know it as fried rice, triple schezwan fried rice, comes with a twist. It is made with fried noodles, red schezwan sauce with chicken or vegetables and topped with chicken fried rice and garnished with spring onions. All three in one. A visual delight to see and eat. Though available everywhere, this one is special and a must try.

Price OMR2.600 Also Try Khana Khazana has an extensive menu catering in Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. There are lots of dishes to try as their menu is quite exhaustive. Try butter chicken which is tender pieces of boneless chicken cooked in rich tomato, and cashew. The gravy is delicious and has a tinge of sweetness.

Murg adraki is boneless pieces of chicken, cooked in onion, and coriander along with chopped tomato gravy and garnished with juliennes of ginger as the name suggests. Chicken biryani cooked in dum style was a great accompaniment. Bhuna gosht is a semi dry dish where the lamb cubes are roasted with freshly pounded spices and simmered in an aromatic gravy. Their Malvani fish curry which is a coastal curry is to die for. Murg Afghani, chicken in cashewnut and tomato gravy topped with egg white froth is also delicious. Try the chicken satay, tender chicken in skewers with barbecue or peanut sauce as starters.

Bhindi kurkure, is worth a try.

What’s Special Here in Oman, while triple schezwan fried rice is available in most of the multi-cuisine restaurants, the ones available at Khana Khazana at MBD, and their other outlets are delicious. You can also avail their Banquet Hall for your party.

— ashishdubash@timesofoman.com LOCATION

PHOTOS: ASHISH DUBASH

Khana Khazana, behind Pizza Hut, MBD +968 2481 3466 Next to Al Maya Supermarket, Star Cinema, CBD +968 2470 2206 Cargo Complex, Muscat International Airport +968 9988 7972

GOURMET DELIGHT

FOOD NOTE

Caramel Restaurant & Lounge to Open at Opera Galleria in Royal Opera House Muscat

Simple Twists to Favourite Foods From favourite meals to the snacks, you probably have a list committed to memory of the foods your family enjoys most.

Wish you could up the nutrition factor on some of those items?

With a few healthy twists, you can easily encourage your family to eat more wholesome snacks and meals while still appealing to their taste buds.

Registered Dietician Christy Wilson offers incredibly simple ideas for recreating meal and snack time so your entire family benefits from better nutrition.

Snack fresh When hunger pangs strike, but it’s not yet mealtime, reach for fresh fruit. Get a little creative by making fruit parfaits by layering chopped fresh fruit with yoghurt and granola. Packed with vitamins and minerals, you can feel good when your kids ask for more.

Set to revolutionise the hospitality scene in Oman, UAE based Caramel Group is proud to announce the upcoming opening of Caramel Restaurant & Lounge – Muscat. The upscale dining and entertainment lounge will be located at the Opera Galleria and will offer patrons the latest American contemporary cuisine and a creative combination of global favourites. The establishment will also offer a full range of beverages including signature drinks with the resident DJ setting the scene with sophisticated and eclectic beats. Caramel Group burst onto the Middle East hospitality scene in 2009, opening of the first Cara-

mel Restaurant & Lounge in the bustling Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The group has since grown to include sister’s venues in Abu Dhabi and Nairobi.

The restaurants have experienced unprecedented success, attracting foodies, young professionals, socialites, and celebrities through their sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere, unparalleled service and excellent menu options.

Commenting on the Group’s latest venture, Chief Operating Officer Jim Moaddab noted, “We are delighted to shortly open the Caramel Restaurant & Lounge at the beautiful Opera Galleria in Muscat. Oman’s hospitality sector

The Caramel Restaurant & Lounge in Muscat will embody the signature style and chic décor characteristic of the Caramel Group.

is receptive and growing so it is a great time to enter the market with a truly new and unique offering.”

The Caramel Restaurant & Lounge in Muscat will embody the signature style and chic décor characteristic of the Caramel Group. Including both terrace and indoor seating options set within the luxurious Opera Galleria Muscat, the restaurant-lounge is expected to become the capital’s go-to venue for tantalising dining and entertainment. Caramel Restaurant & Lounge – Muscat will open its doors to the public next month with a grand opening expected before the end of the year.

-lifestyle@timesofoman.com

Super sides Get creative by adding fresh produce into side dishes. For example, add red pepper, mushrooms, onion, tomato, and lime juice to Knorr Fiesta Sides Yellow Rice. Want to make it a meal? Add a protein like sautéed chicken breast cut into bite-size pieces.

Satisfy the crunch craving Sometimes your family just wants something crunchy so they reach for that bag of chips. Stop. Instead of chips, prepare crunchy vegetable sticks like jicama, carrots, and cucumbers.

They’re great for dipping and packing in the kids’ lunches.

Double the vegetables For a nutrition boost, double the vegetables in favourite family recipes. For example, you can take Knorr’s recipe for Fiesta Lime Chicken and give it a nutritious spin with two or three tomatoes instead of just one. — BPT

A16

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

LIFESTYLE Molasses

ONE INGREDIENT NGREDIENT

FIVE WAYS

This thick, dark, and sticky syrup is flavourful and an ideal substitute of sugar. It is slightly less sweeter than sugar and goes well with baked beans, cakes, bread, pies, and pudding.

MOLASSES BAKED BEANS

BANANA MOLASSES CAKE

MOLASSES SWEET POTATO PIE

MOLASSES COOKIES

Take 1 cup cooked mashed sweet potatoes, 1/4 cup butter, 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, 1/2tsp salt, 1/3 cup milk, 3 eggs, beaten, 1/2 cup light molasses, 2tsp vanilla, little butter, and 2tsp sugar. Add potatoes and eggs, and mix well. Add molasses, milk, vanilla, and salt. Stir to blend. Pour into unbaked pie shell and bake at 425 degrees for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 350° C and bake for 35 to 45 minutes more, until it is brown.

Take 1/2 cup sugar, 1/3 cup shortening, 1 egg, 1/2 cup molasses, 1tsp baking soda dissolved in 5tbsp of boiling water, 2 cups flour, 1tsp cinnamon, 1tsp cloves, and 3/4 cup raisins frosting.

Blend sugar and shortening. Add eggs and molasses and mix. Dissolve baking soda in boiling water and mix. Add flour, cinnamon, cloves, and raisins.

Mix well. Bake at 200° C for approximately 7 minutes. Frost while warm.

MOLASSES BREAD PUDDING

Take 10 slices stale bread, cubed, 2 eggs, 3tbsp molasses, 2tbsp sugar, 1/4tsp salt, 2 cups milk, 2tbsp butter, melted. Arrange bread cubes in well greased baking dish. Beat together eggs, molasses, sugar, and salt. Add milk and butter.

Pour over bread cubes. Bake in moderate oven at 230° C for 1 hour or until firm. Serve cold with milk or cream.

Take 3 1/4 cup flour, 4tsp baking powder, 1tsp soda, 1tsp cinnamon, 3/4 cup butter, 1/3 cup molasses, 3 eggs, 1 cup mashed banana, 1 cup chopped nuts, and 2 cups sugar. Combine dry ingredients. In another bowl cream butter and sugar and add molasses. Beat until combined. Thoroughly beat in eggs and fold in nuts. Then stir in flour mixture and bananas in four additions. Pour into greased and floured pan. Bake in 220° C for an hour. Let cool for 10 minutes and then remove from pan. Drizzle with vanilla glaze.

Take 500g dried pea beans, 1 1/2 cups water, 2 green bell peppers, coarsely chopped, 1 large onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1/2 cup molasses or honey, 1/2 cup chilli sauce, 1/3 cup dark brown sugar, 1/2tsp salt, 1/2tsp dry mustard, 1/2tsp black pepper, 1/4tsp ginger. Wash and soak beans overnight and drain well. Place drained beans in a pan and cover beans with water and simmer for 1 hour over low heat, skimming off any foam. Turn beans into a bean pot or a 8x10-inch baking pan and add remaining ingredients. Bake beans for almost one-and-a-half hours in a preheated oven at 220° C or until beans are soft. After the first hour, stir occasionally. If beans seem dry, stir in a little water. -lifestyle@timesofoman.com

BRIEFS

Indian pastry chefs to compete internationally

PASTRY CHEFS from India will compete in the Juniors Pastry World Championship to be held in Italy early next year. The competition will be a part of SIGEP in Rimini in January 2017. It is an International exhibition in which different cultures and food traditions meet and share, and exchange projects.

At SIGEP 2017 show, the Junior Pastry World Cup will take place with participants from 10 countries competing for the title. Arjun Gupta and Manjot Kalra of Academy of Pastry Arts India, winner of the first ever Junior Pastry Indian Cup held at Gurgaon will represent India at the event, said a statement.

The duo earned the right after winning two day Junior Pastry Indian Cup event which saw seven best pastry teams in the age group of 18-22 from across the country competing against each other. They displayed their mastery over the sugar and chocolate pieces. Based on overall creativity and presentation, a team of judges led by celebrity chef Ranveer Brar, declared the two as winners. Other judges were Chef Avijit Ghosh, Chef Parvinder Singh Bali, and Chef Niklesh Kumar Sharma.

Brar said: “It’s important to bring talent and industry together on platforms that challenge and engage. Junior Pastry Indian Cup is such a platform that creates an ecosystem of learning and growth.” Ghosh said: “Junior Pastry Indian Cup has given much needed fillip to art of pastry making in India. It will also encourage more youngsters to take up the profession of pastry arts.” The chosen chefs will undergo further intensive training at Academy of Pastry Arts Gurgaon and Malaysia to hone up their skills to help them leave a mark internationally.

Top 10 tweeted food list has just one healthy item

IF TWEETS CAN reveal something about our health, researchers have some bad news. In a list of top 10 tweeted foods in the US, they found only one item — chicken — that could be considered healthy food. Coffee was the most tweeted food in the US between mid-2014 to mid-2015 followed by ale, then pizza, the study revealed. Chicken, the only food that can be considered healthy, came seventh in the list. For the study, scientists at University of Utah surveyed nearly 80 million Twitter messages — a random sample of one per cent of publicly available, geotagged tweets — over the course of one year. They then sorted through about four million tweets about food to prepare a top 10 tweeted food list. The researchers found that tweets from poor neighbourhoods, and regions with large households, were less likely to mention healthy foods. Also, people in areas dense with fast food restaurants tweeted more often about fast food. “Our data could be telling us that certain neighbourhoods have fewer resources to support healthy diets,” said lead author of the study Quynh Nguyen, Assistant Professor at University of Utah College of Health. These types of comparisons could provide clues as to how our surrounding neighbourhood — the environment that we live, work, and play in — impacts our health and wellbeing, suggests the study published online in the Journal of Medical Internet Research Public Health and Surveillance. Perhaps neighbourhoods laden with fast food restaurants could benefit from having more supermarkets or farm stands that sell fresh produce, Nguyen noted.-IANS

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WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM TU ES DAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

APPLE’S NEW TECHNOLOGY

MARKE

Apple plans to adopt the technology for the next major upgrade to its flagship product.

Apple, which usually prefers to have multiple suppliers, is in negotiations with Sharp to procure OLEDs. Initial costs could reach $2 billion. - Bloomberg News

SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY LAUNCH THE VIDEO

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

Muscat 5,581.11 - 69.96 - 1.24%

Dubai 3,272.37 - 29.47 - 0.89%

Abu Dhabi 4,220.44 - 95.18 - 2.21%

Saudi Arabia

5,562.13 - 70.56 - 1.25%

Kuwait 5,287.11 - 22.04 - 0.42%

Bahrain 1,140.96 - 3.61 - 0.32%

Qatar 10,367.74 - 22.22 - 0.21%

CRUDE OIL PRICE

CURRENCY RATES*

DRAFT RATES (OMR1)*

GOLD PRICES*

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

Forex rates vs OMR1* US Dollar ................................. 2.58 Euro ............................................ 2.34 Pound ............................................2.11 Indian Rs ..............................173.01 Pakistan Rs ....................... 267.02 Bangla Taka....................... 201.01

Indian Rs ...................................173.65 Pakistan Rs .............................. 271.75 Sri Lanka Rs .................................. N/A Bangla Taka........................... 203.55 Phil Peso ....................................125.70

Muscat 24ct per gm (OMR) .......16.05

Oman Crude............. (Spot) ........$48.63 Dubai Crude ............. (Spot) ........$48.38 Murban Crude ........ (Spot) ........$50.36 Arabian Light ......... (Spot) .........$48.31 N.Sea Brent............... (Spot) .........$52.12 West Texas Int ....... (Spot) ........$50.40

* Rates are as of October 17 Source: Bank Muscat

* Rates as of October 17 Source: Oman UAE Exchange

Muscat 22ct per gm (OMR) .......15.40 Dubai 24ct per gm (Dh) ........... 152.00 Dubai 22ct per gm (Dh) ............. 142.75 * Rates as of October 17 Source: Malabar Gold & Diamonds

OMAN STOCKS

Muscat bourse plunges by 1.24% on weak results after the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) said that they will allow a third operator to enhance service quality and enhance competition. Further, the third quarter results were also not very promising, which is another reason for the fall.

Times News Service MUSCAT: Share values on the Muscat Securities Market (MSM) plunged on weak third quarter results and risk aversion by investor community.

The MSM 30 index, the barometer of the market movement, fell by 1.24 per cent (or 69.96 points) to touch 5,581.11 points on Monday.

Oman’s banks “The outlook is not positive. We do not have any additional triggers and the third quarter results (so far) were not positive,” said Suresh Kumar, head of research at Al Maha Financial Services.

There was a fall of 5 per cent in

net profit of Omani banks in the second quarter. “However, there were no negative surprises as well,” added Suresh Kumar.

All other regional bourses, led

Sohar port plans mega container terminal An approval from government is awaited for a large modern automated container terminal, which will have a capacity to handle five million twentyfoot equivalent units

A. E. JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman’s government is working on a plan to build a large modern automated container terminal at Sohar Port, which will have a capacity to handle five million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) per annum.

The government authorities are waiting for an internal approval, which will be in line with commercial discussion with the port operator.

Basic infrastructure The basic infrastructure for the proposed terminal (terminal D) will be developed by the government, while the superstructure will be built by the container terminal operator – Oman International Container Terminal (OITC), Mahdi Al Lawatia, Southern Development Director of Sohar Port told ‘Times of Oman’ on the sidelines of ‘Port Development Middle East Conference’ here on Monday.

He further said that the current container handling capacity of Sohar is around 2 million TEUs and the port’s actual annual container handling is close to the capacity. The expansion will

take the total container handling capacity to seven million TEUs per year, once it is ready. Apart from organic growth, the relocation of all commercial traffic from Muscat a couple of years ago is a driver for recent peaks in cargo volumes, especially in containers.

Al Lawatia said that the construction of new terminal may take two-and-a-half years, after finalising the plan and start work on the project.

He also noted that the new terminal, which is coming up close to the logistics cluster, will use state-of-the-art technology in an attempt to make it a smart port.

Strategic location Sohar Port has several advantages due to its strategic location and its access to thickly populated countries like India and Pakistan.

Sohar Port’s industrial area has attracted investment to the tune of $25 billion so far, he noted. The whole industrial area is divided into several clusters, including logistics, metal/mineral, petrochemical and utilities.

In fact, a new sugar refinery and a food grain handling facility (of Oman Flour Mills) will come up close to Terminal B or agrobulk terminal and therefore, it will be exclusively used by these two units.

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

Correction Bank Dhofar on Monday said that the shareholders’ entitlement for its rights issue is 117 shares for every 1,000 shares held by existing shareholders and not 105 shares as reported by Times of Oman on Monday and the rights issue price is 200 baisas per share (and not 276 baisas per share as reported in the newspaper yesterday).

by Abu Dhabi and Qatar, were also down. In fact, investors have taken a back seat and are following a ‘wait and watch’ policy.

Another senior market analyst

said that the market sentiment was weak after Bank Dhofar and Bank Sohar dropped their proposed merger on Sunday. Telecommunication stocks were also down

Range bound activity “We see a range bound activity in the coming weeks, with a negative bias. Dividend buying will be seen only towards the end of the year,” added the market analyst.

The traded volumes were on the higher side on the Muscat bourse on Monday, as volumes touched 47.52 million shares with a turnover of OMR6.53 million. This was

mainly due to a major block deal.

As many as 552 trades were executed on Monday, generating a turnover of OMR6.54 million with 47.5 million shares changing hands. Out of 38 traded securities, two advanced, 19 declined and 17 remained unchanged. Arab and GCC investors were net buyers to the tune of OMR3.83 million worth of shares, while Omani investors switched to net sellers at OMR3.72 million followed by foreign investors, who sold stocks amounting to OMR109,000.

The major losers were Bank Sohar, Oman Investment and Finance, Bank Nizwa, Al Anwar Ceramic Tiles, Galfar Engineering and Al Jazeera Services.

B2

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

MARKET Gulf states need $560 billion fund The region’s funding requirement has been mounting since 2015, when the drop in oil-related revenue turned fiscal surpluses into deficits

Times News Service MUSCAT: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states need $560 billion finance during 2015-2019 period, says S&P Global Ratings, as the consequences of a fall in crude oil prices are clearly visible in fiscal and external accounts of GCC states.

The region’s funding requirement has been mounting since 2015, when the drop in oil-related revenue turned fiscal surpluses into deficits, although these differ among the sovereigns in scale and

duration, the S&P said.

“We estimate that, in nominal terms, GCC sovereigns’ combined fiscal deficit will reach $150 billion (12.8 per cent of combined GDP) in 2016 alone.”

Growing deficit As a proportion of GDP, the agency expects that in 2016-2019 these deficits will average around 10 per cent a year in Bahrain, Sultanate of Oman, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, and 4 per cent on average in Abu Dhabi and Qatar.

GCC sovereigns’ financing needs will likely remain substantial over the next several years, given the region’s almost uniform dependence on hydrocarbons, S&P said, adding: “We forecast that the cumulative funding requirement could be as high as $560 billion between 2015 and 2019. The resulting imbalances and their likely im-

pact have been central to our view of a significant deterioration in the region’s creditworthiness over the past 18 months. Although most governments’ balance sheets remain a rating strength, the related assets are finite.”

Liquidity sources Furthermore, the agency said that international liquidity sources could start to dry up at a time when foreign inflows are most needed and the liquidity of domestic banking systems is diminishing. This creates uncertainty about how, and at what price, GCC sovereigns will cover their fiscal deficits.

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

SME DEVELOPMENT

Occidental Oman signs support agreements with small units Times News Service MUSCAT: Occidental of Oman (Oxy Oman) signed two additional support agreements with two Omani small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

A total of 44 applicants have been received where two SMEs have met the eligibility: Cadres Oil Tools & Services (Manufacturing of flanges) and Manadher Al SahraTrading (tank cleaning and maintenance).

The signing ceremony was held at the Oxy Oman headquarters under the patronage of Eng. Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, undersecretary at the Ministry of Oil and Gas. Steve Kelly, president and general manager of Oxy Oman, Said Al Jinaibi, chief executive officer of Manadher Al Sahra Trading & Mattar Al Habsi, chief executive officer of Cadres Oil Tools & Services were signatories for their respective organisations.

To support the Omani Government’s objectives of SMEs development to enhance economic growth of the Sultanate of Oman, Oxy has established its own SMEs Development Programme to provide funding to SMEs to achieve sustainable growth, capacity building and sustainable development.

Phase 3 of the programme has been launched in mid-2015 where

SME DEVELOPMENT: The signing ceremony was held at the Oxy Oman headquarters under the patronage of Eng. Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, undersecretary at the Ministry of Oil and Gas. - Supplied picture

Oxy announced three categories through newspaper advertisements: Engineering services, manufacturing of flanges and tank maintenance.

Economic development This event visualises the continuous response from Oxy Oman to the Royal Directives of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, at the January 2013 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Development Symposium and enhances Oxy Oman’s in country value (ICV) contribution.

The signed agreements are

part of Oxy Oman’s endeavour to support programmes that foster economic development under the umbrella of strategic partnerships and continuous collaboration with key stakeholders.

The agreements fall under the umbrella of strategic partnerships and continuous collaboration with key stakeholders and is part of Oxy Oman’s endeavour and long term commitment to support programs that enhance economic growth and sustainable development that yields positive impacts in the neighbouring communities.

PRODUCTION

Iran to raise oil output to 4m barrels TEHRAN: Iran, Opec’s thirdbiggest member, plans to boost its oil output to a level of 4 million barrels a day this year, potentially complicating the producer group’s plan to cut supply in an effort to prop up prices.

Iran will raise production from 3.89 million barrels a day currently, Ali Kardor, managing director of National Iranian Oil Company, said on Monday at a conference in Tehran.

Amir Hossein Zamaninia, deputy oil minister for international affairs, told reporters the country pumped 4.085 million barrels a day before sanctions were imposed on its economy. “We need to reach pre-sanctions production levels,” he said.

Iran currently exports more than 2.2 million barrels a day, Zamaninia said. The country is seeking to recover the share of crude markets it held before sanctions, which were eased in January.

Opec cut The Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) will meet next month to seek agreement on how to put into effect a planned cut in the group’s output. Opec decided last month in Algeria to reduce its collective production to between 32.5 million and 33 million barrels a day to rein in a global glut and support prices, though it may exempt Iran from any cuts.

Iran lost its position as Opec’s

second-biggest producer after international sanctions were tightened in 2012 and has defended its steps to ramp up output to return to prior levels.

Opec will discuss individual production quotas for its members at a meeting in November, Zamaninia said.

However, Opec data for Iran’s production based on estimates from secondary sources such as analysts and journalists is “not acceptable” for use in determining the country’s individual quota, Kardor said.

The country pumped 3.63 million barrels of oil a day in September, data shows. Iran is pumping at full capacity, Kardor said.

- Bloomberg News

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

B3

MARKET OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ........................................5,649.47 ................5,581.11 .................... 5,581.11 ................... 5,651.07................-69.96 .................. -1.24 Financial Index ..................................... 7,331.83 ...............7,234.14 ................... 7,234.23 ................... 7,333.83................-99.60 .................. -1.36 Industrial Index ....................................7,192.05 ...............7,142.98 ....................7,145.25 ................... 7,192.05............... -46.80 .................. -0.65 Services Index ...................................... 3,070.63 .............. 3,049.90 ...................3,049.90 ...................3,070.63................-20.73 .................. -0.68 MSM SHARIAH INDEX....................... 863.15 ...................857.16 ....................... 857.16 .......................863.81.................. -6.65 .................. -0.77 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 47,520,452 ................. 6,535,434 .....................552 ................17,315,545,329 .................. 2 ......................19 .................... 17 .........................38

Bank credit in Oman grows 11%

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR MONDAY, OCTOBER 17 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

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

OM0000004925 ...........AL BATINAH POWER..................................................30,232 ............... 5,861........................4 ............0.193 ........... 0.196 ...........0.193 ........... 0.194 ............. 0.193.............0.001 ............. 0.518 ................0.196 .............. 0.195...................0.200 .................130,928,161 ........0.100 OM0000001087............OMAN UNITED INSURANCE ............................... 100,000 ...........29,000........................5 ........... 0.290...........0.290 ...........0.290 .......... 0.290 .............0.290 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.290............. 0.280...................0.290 ..................29,000,000 ........0.100 OM0000001145 ............PORT SERVICES CORPORATION ....................... 189,000 ........... 44,376......................14 ........... 0.235 ...........0.236 ...........0.232........... 0.235 .............0.235 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.232..............0.232...................0.234 ..................22,334,400 ........0.100 OM0000001418 ............RAYSUT CEMENT ...................................................... 276,500 ......... 414,750........................5 ............1.500 ........... 1.500 ...........1.500........... 1.500 .............1.500 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................1.500..............1.490...................1.500................. 300,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000001483............NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN ................................. 200,000...........46,000........................8 ........... 0.230 ...........0.230 ...........0.230........... 0.230 .............0.230 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.230..............0.221...................0.230 .................339,199,693 ........0.100 OM0000002820 ...........GULF INVESTMENT SERVICES .................................560 .....................59........................1 ............0.105 ........... 0.105 ...........0.105 ............0.110 ............. 0.110............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.105 ..............0.105...................0.107.................... 6,472,754 ..........0.100 OM0000003711 ............SOHAR POWER....................................................................730 ...................188........................2 ........... 0.258 ...........0.258 ...........0.258........... 0.258 .............0.258 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.258..............0.250...................0.000 ..................57,020,580 .........0.100 OM0000005963 ...........PHOENIX POWER ...................................................... 240,529 ........... 34,590......................11 ............0.144 ........... 0.144 ...........0.142........... 0.144 .............0.144 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.143 ..............0.143...................0.144..................210,614,610 ........0.100 OM0000003661 ............VOLTAMP ENERGY ......................................................21,741 ................9,741........................8 ........... 0.448 ...........0.450 ...........0.448........... 0.448 .............0.450 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.444 ...............0.450..............0.450...................0.462 ..................27,104,000 .........0.100

The banking sector, including Islamic banks,

OM0000001749 ............OMAN CEMENT ........................................................... 70,000 .............31,142........................6 ........... 0.446 ...........0.446 ...........0.440 .......... 0.444 .............0.446 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.448 ...............0.440..............0.440...................0.450..................146,907,483 ........0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING.................................................41,624 ...............6,993......................13 ............0.168 ........... 0.168 ...........0.168 ............0.168 ............. 0.169............-0.001 ........... -0.592 ...............0.168 ..............0.168...................0.170...................29,400,413 .........0.100

has achieved a robust year-on-year growth in credit disbursements, which stood at

OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 598,746..........250,502..................... 45 ........... 0.420 ...........0.420 ...........0.418 ............0.418 .............0.422 ...........-0.004 ........... -0.948 ...............0.420.............. 0.418...................0.420 ...............1,043,432,608 ......0.100 OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION ........................ 221,865 .........336,047......................14 ............1.525 ........... 1.525 ...........1.500............1.515 ............. 1.535............-0.020 ........... -1.303 ...............1.500..............1.500................... 1.515 ................1,136,250,000 ......0.100 OM0000001533 ............OMINVEST ..................................................................... 50,000 ............26,000........................3 ........... 0.520 ...........0.520 ...........0.520........... 0.520 .............0.528 ...........-0.008 ............-1.515 ................0.520..............0.508...................0.520 .................330,611,262 ........0.100

OMR21.68b by the end August 2016.

OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES ...................................... 45,000 ...............9,520........................4 ............0.215 ........... 0.215 ...........0.210........... 0.212 ............. 0.217............-0.005 ........... -2.304 ...............0.210............. 0.209...................0.210...................63,340,867.........0.100 OM0000001160 ............NATIONAL GAS ...............................................................6,000 ...............3,696........................4 ........... 0.624 ...........0.624 ...........0.612 ............0.616 .............0.632 ...........-0.016 ........... -2.532 ...............0.612 ..............0.608...................0.612...................33,880,000.........0.100 OM0000002226 ...........AL JAZEERA SERVICES ........................................... 38,000 ...............6,660........................8 ............0.174 ........... 0.180 ...........0.174 ............0.175 .............0.180 ...........-0.005 ........... -2.778 ...............0.175 .............. 0.174...................0.175 ................... 10,710,748 .........0.100

A. E. JAMES

businesseditor@timessofoman.com

MUSCAT: Oman’s banking sector, including Islamic banks, has achieved a robust 11.41 per cent (or an incremental rise of OMR2,221.1 million) year-on-year growth in credit disbursements, which stood at OMR21.68 billion by the end August 2016.

Of this, credit to the private sector surged ahead by 13.4 per cent to OMR19.5 billion by the end of August 2016, according to the latest monthly statistics released by the Central Bank of Oman on Monday.

Of the total credit to the private sector, the share of the household sector (mainly under personal loans) stood at 46 per cent, closely followed by the non-financial corporate sector at 45.6 per cent, financial corporations at 5.2 per cent and other sectors at 3.2 per cent.

Total deposits of Omani banks registered an year-on-year growth of 6.3 per cent (or OMR1,231.5 million) to OMR20.71 billion as at the end of August 2016, from

OMR19.48 billion.

The CBO report said that the aggregate credit of conventional banks alone grew by 8.18 per cent (or OMR1,472.6 million) to OMR19.48 billion by the end of August 21016, while the deposits of these banks have increased by 2.54 per cent to OMR18.71 million by August 2016. Government deposits with conventional banks declined by 8.6 per cent to OMR4.9 billion. Deposits of public enterprises surged ahead by 44.7 per cent to OMR1.5 billion during the period.

Islamic banks Islamic banks provided financing to the extent of OMR2.2 billion as at the end of August 2016, against OMR1.45 billion a year ago. Total deposits held with Islamic banks and windows amounted to OMR2 billion by August 2016 from OMR1.23 billion for the same period of last year. Also, the total assets of Islamic banks and windows stood at OMR2.8 billion by the end of August 2016, which constituted 9.4 per cent of the entire assets of Omani banks.

OM0000002168............AL ANWAR CERAMIC TILES ............................... 271,000 ............43,517......................17 ............0.166 ........... 0.166 ...........0.160............0.161 ............. 0.167............-0.006 ........... -3.593 ...............0.160.............. 0.158...................0.160...................47,690,403 .........0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 1,645,185.......282,860..................... 49 ............0.183 ........... 0.183 ........... 0.171 ............0.172 .............0.190 ...........-0.018 ........... -9.474 ...............0.171 ............. 0.000................... 0.171 ...................34,400,000 ........0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR................................................................ 2,829,655 ...... 402,411..................... 78 ............0.148 ........... 0.148 ...........0.142........... 0.142 ............. 0.157............-0.015 ........... -9.554 ...............0.142............. 0.000...................0.142..................227,838,906........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 6,876,367 ...1,983,912...................299 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ..... 20........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN .................................................... 37,664,252 4,252,723..................... 39 ............0.110 ........... 0.113............0.110 ............0.111.............. 0.110.............0.001 .............0.909 ................ 0.111 ...............0.111................... 0.113 ................. 222,034,720 .......0.100 OM0000001152 ............OMAN NATIONAL ENGINE. INVT. ........................ 2,221 ...................311........................1 ............0.140 ........... 0.140 ...........0.140........... 0.150 .............0.150............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.140..............0.140...................0.150...................15,000,000.........0.100 OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES ..................................................... 318,151 .............18,425......................16 ........... 0.058 ...........0.058 ...........0.057........... 0.058 .............0.058 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.057..............0.057...................0.058....................7,250,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001681 ............OMAN AND EMIRATES INV. HOLDING...............3,000 .................. 375........................1 ............0.125 ........... 0.125 ...........0.125 ........... 0.130 .............0.130............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.125 .............. 0.125...................0.129................... 15,843,750 .........0.100 OM0000002200 ...........AHLI BANK .................................................................... 200,000...........38,000........................6 ............0.190 ........... 0.190 ...........0.190........... 0.190 .............0.190 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.190..............0.186...................0.190..................270,756,867........0.100 OM0000003125 ............GLOBAL FINANCIAL INVESTMENT ................. 70,000 .............11,380........................5 ............0.162 ........... 0.163 ...........0.162 ............0.163 ............. 0.163............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.163 .............. 0.161...................0.163...................32,600,000 ........0.100 OM0000003141 ............ACWA POWER BARKA ............................................... 16,120 ............. 11,413........................2 ............0.708 ........... 0.708 ...........0.708........... 0.708 .............0.708 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.708..............0.708...................0.000 .................113,280,000........0.100 OM0000004776 ...........TAKAFUL OMAN INSURANCE .............................. 21,581 ...............2,921........................3 ............0.140 ........... 0.140 ...........0.135 ............0.135 ............. 0.135............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.135 ..............0.130...................0.137 ...................13,500,000.........0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER ....................................................20,974 ...............4,132........................2 ............0.197 ........... 0.197 ...........0.197 ............0.197 ............. 0.197............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.197 .............. 0.196...................0.200 .................140,738,049........0.100 OM0000003281............TAAGEER FINANCE .................................................. 43,000 .............. 4,644........................4 ............0.108 ........... 0.108 ...........0.108........... 0.108 .............0.109 ...........-0.001 ........... -0.917................0.108..............0.108...................0.109................... 27,387,720 .........0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS .................7,503 ...............1,923........................2 ........... 0.260...........0.260 ...........0.255........... 0.256 .............0.260 ...........-0.004 ............-1.538................0.255..............0.250...................0.259....................5,376,000 ..........0.100 OM0000004511 ............ALIZZ ISLAMIC BANK................................................42,122 ...............2,612........................2 ........... 0.062 ...........0.062 ...........0.062........... 0.062 .............0.063 ...........-0.001 ............-1.587................0.062..............0.061...................0.062 ................. 62,000,000 ........0.100 OM0000002440 ...........AL SHARQIA INVESTMENT HOLDING ........... 297,113 ............ 35,804.....................40 ............0.125 ........... 0.125 ...........0.120............0.121 ............. 0.123............-0.002 ........... -1.626................0.120.............. 0.119...................0.120...................10,890,000.........0.100 OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. .................. 1,059,770 .........97,278..................... 99 ........... 0.095 ........... 0.095 ...........0.090........... 0.092 .............0.095 ...........-0.003 ............-3.158................0.094..............0.093...................0.095...................26,678,219 .........0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 851,766 .............68,163..................... 25 ........... 0.082 ...........0.082 ...........0.079........... 0.080 .............0.083 ...........-0.003 ............-3.614................0.079..............0.078...................0.079................. 120,000,000 .......0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 40,617,573 .4,550,103...................247 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ...... 15........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

THIRD QUARTER

INDIAN MARKETS

Net profit of Emirates NBD misses analysts’ estimates DUBAI: Emirates NBD reported third-quarter profit that missed analysts’ estimates as the United Arab Emirates’ biggest bank was hurt by bad loan provisions at its Islamic unit.

Net income was Dh1.66 billion ($453 million), little changed from Dh1.67 billion in the year earlier period, the Dubai government-controlled lender said to the city’s bourse on Monday.

The mean estimate of five analysts was for a profit of Dh1.83 billion. While overall impairments fell 11 per cent, they almost doubled at its Islamic unit to Dh455 million, the bank said in a separate statement.

“Whilst we have seen increased delinquencies in the micro small and medium enterprise segment, which has prompted Emirates Islamic to take additional provisions, the group’s overall credit quality continues to improve,” Group chief executive officer Shayne Nelson said in the statement.

quality worsens, S&P Global Ratings said earlier this year.

Oil’s plunge is curbing spending in the UAE, while the second biggest Arab economy is expanding at its slowest pace since 2010, leading to loan defaults. Banks in the UAE are prepared for deteriorating conditions as oil prices remain lower for longer and asset

Islamic finance Emirates Islamic Bank, the lender’s Islamic unit, reported a thirdquarter loss of Dh31 million compared to an Dh87 million profit a year ago.

The bank said earlier this month it plans to raise Dh1.5 billion from a rights issue to boost capital amid a surge in lending.

Emirates NBD’s shares rose 0.8 per cent to Dh8.1 in Dubai trading.

Loans climbed 11 per cent at the end of September from a year earlier to Dh289.2 billion, while deposits rose by 16 per cent to Dh311.6 billion.

The ratio of bad loans to total loans fell to 6.4 per cent from 7.1 per cent a year earlier, the bank said, while the net interest margin declined to 2.54 per cent in the nine months through September from 2.8 per cent in the same period a year ago. – Bloomberg News

Sensex loses 144 points; rupee falls MUMBAI: Stocks saw a positive start on Monday, only to reverse the trend later as the Sensex fell about 144 points to end at an over threemonth low, unnerved by muted start to second quarterly earnings and a lackluster global trend.

The BSE index ended lower by 143.63 points, or 0.52 per cent, at 27,529.97, its lowest close since July 8. The gauge had edged up 30 points in the last session on Friday.

Barring banking, all sectors end-

ed lower with auto, capital goods and realty closing down by up to 2.12 per cent.

The NSE Nifty closed lower by 63 points, or 0.73 per cent, at 8,520.40. Intra-day, it shuttled between 8,615.40 and 8,506.15. As many as 24 stocks in the Sensex group fell and only six rose.

M&M was battered the most as it plunged by 3.22 per cent, followed

by Hero MotoCorp (2.24 per cent) and Asian Paints (2.07 per cent).

Rupee depreciates After a brief recovery, the rupee once again turned shaky and ended lower by 17 paise at 66.88 due to frantic dollar demand from importers and corporates.

With stock markets also looking sluggish, the local unit fell further to hit a fresh intra-day low of 66.89 before concluding at 66.88, revealing a loss of 17 paise or 0.25 per cent.

The central bank fixed the reference rate for the dollar at 66.7779. - PTI

B4

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

FEATURE @Mountain BlueBird6780 @EnlightenedSparrow

I

s it Twitter’s best path to find a new owner? Probably. Will Twitter get sold? Maybe. Is it sensible for any company to buy Twitter for $15 billion or much more? Nope.

CNBC’s David Faber reported on September 23 that Twitter

is moving closer to a sale and may have a formal takeover offer soon. A sale isn’t imminent, CNBC said, but this is perhaps the most credible reporting to date that Twitter’s directors may be willing to close the curtain on the

company’s troubled run on the public markets.

In the absence of a clear business strategy, the only thing that drives up Twitter’s stock price these days is hopes the company might be acquired. And predictably, Twitter’s stock soared

about 22 per cent in a single day recently, giving the company a market value of more than $16 billion. Before September 23, Twitter was trading at a relatively modest four times its expected revenue for the

coming year, but those numbers are not reliable given the company’s track record of missing its own forecasts.

@KanyeNest

#ToBuyOrNotToBuy There’s a strange logic to an illogical Twitter takeover

@FeathersLocklear

T h e constant rumours about Twitter getting sold drive up the share price and make an acquisition potentially even more expensive. Given Twitter’s struggles to add users, its deterio-

rating finances and advertisers’ growing disenchantment with the company as a way to market to consumers, a sale of Twitter at current prices is imminently irrational. Of course when it comes to acquisitions, rich companies do unpredictable things.

Sometimes that hat works out for the best — Facebook buying WhatsApp, for example — and sometimes it doesn’t — such as Microsoft buying ... anything. CNBC said Google and Salesforce.com are engaged in conversations about a deal for Twitter. Google is a natural owner for Twitter and has

been a rumoured buyer for years. Google or Facebook — relatively immune from caring about what their shareholders think -- could easily absorb Twitter, hide the company’s financial results and tack it onto their existing advertising sales machines.

@WilTweeton

@TweetWilliams

Still, it’s not clear why even Google would be willing to buy Twitter now, rather than wait for it to get cheaper. Salesforce, on the other hand, is a bit of a headscratcher as a potential Twitter buyer. It is true that one of Salesforce’s biggest lines of business is selling software used by customer-service departments to handle

complaints and feedback. Twitter is likewise avidly used by customer-service teams — as you may have noticed if you ever tweeted gripes about your cable company and got a response from them on Twitter.

But it’s not clear

w h y Salesforce would spend roughly 30 per cent of its market cap to ensure Twitter and Salesforce customer-service features are used in tandem; the same benefits can be achieved with smart software collaboration. It’s also possible that

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff — who tried really, really, really hard to buy LinkedIn — simply wants the attention that comes from making a play for a high-profile target like Twitter. Salesforce shareholders don’t look happy about such a vanity deal. The company’s stock price was down about 4 per cent in early trading on

September eptember 23. Once again we’re iin th the same place with Twitter we’ve been for years: An acquisition makes little sense at Twitter’s current prices, especially as

shares go up on every takeover rumour. But just because it doesn’t make sense b doesn’t mean it won’t happen. — Bloomberg News

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B5

ROUND-UP

Last few days to capitalise on offers available for Mitsubishi Outlander Valid until October 21, the offer allows all potential Mitsubishi Outlander buyers to benefit from a six years unlimited mileage warranty, six years roadside assistance, free registration, free service package of 2 years/30,000km, and cash gifts of up to OMR2,500

MUSCAT: General Automotive Company, the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Oman, as part of its ‘Highest Cash Back and Lowest Prices’ promotion is providing its customers with high value cash-backs of up to OMR2,500

and other amazing benefits on the Mitsubishi Outlander that includes free service, free registration, and more.

Customers are advised to make the most of this promotion, which is also includes other models within

KERALA WING

offered by any vehicle sporting the tri-diamond badge, the Outlander is easily amongst the best vehicles on offer in its class.”

Valid until October 21 – the offer allows all potential Mitsubishi Outlander buyers to benefit from a six years unlimited mileage warranty, six years roadside assistance, free registration, free service package of 2 years/30,000km,

In Oman, the Outlander is available with two different engines; the Outlander GLX comes with 2.4 L MIVEC, 4-cylinder engine producing 167PS at 6,000rpm and 22.6kgm of torque at 4,100rpm, while the 7-seat Outlander GLS features a 3.0L MIVC 6-cylinder engine producing 230PS at 6,250rpm and 29.8kgm of torque at 3,750rpm. Both engines provide the benefits of the high power output, low fuel consumption, and low exhaust emissions.

“In addition to the Outlander, this offer also extends to our Attrage, L200, Lancer EX, Pajero and the new Montero Sport models as well.

Each of these vehicles represent the very best of what Mitsubishi can offer. I encourage anyone in the market for an Outlander, or any of our other vehicles in the line-up, to make the most of this offer before it comes to a close in less than a week’s time on October 21,” added Manoj.

FRANCHISE

Sitaram Yechury to deliver Sree Narayana Guru Memorial lecture MUSCAT: Indian Social ClubOman (ISC) Kerala Wing is organising the Sree Narayana Guru Memorial lecture with the keynote address from Sitaram Yechury; a prominent leader, Member of Parliament of India, intellectual and visiting dignitary to many Indian as well as western universities.

Sree Narayana Guru Memorial lecture, a recurring lecture event conducted by Kerala Wing with an anticipated audience of over 1,500 will be held at 6pm on Friday, October 21, at Crystal Suites, Wadi Kabir. Past years speakers for the programme included Prakash Karat, M. R. Raghava Warrior, Dr Rajan Gurukkal, KEN Kunjahammed and Prof.

K.N. Panicker, etc.

“Though Indian Social ClubOman Kerala Wing had organised many events in the past with visiting public figures from India on various occasions; the scale, gathering magnitude, and the media focus to the lecture session would be unmatched due to the prominence of topic and reputation of the speaker,” P. M. Jabir, chairman of the organising committee stated.

Lecture session is a persistent event of Kerala Wing to mark the revival of social reformation of Kerala over a century back and its ripples today.

Sree Narayana Guru led a social transformation movement in Kerala, rejected caste system, and promoted new values of spiritual freedom and a broader

the Mitsubishi line-up, before it ends on October 21, says a press release.

Commenting on the Outlander, Manoj Ranade, GM of General Automotive Company said, “With its compact size, 7-seat layout, hi-tech features, and impressive on and off-road capability make it one of the most versatile vehicles in our line-up. Combined with the quality, reliability and affordability

and cash gifts of up to OMR2,500.

The current Mitsubishi Outlander seven seat passenger crossover was the first Mitsubishi production vehicle to showcase the brand’s new design language and new front design concept, labelled ‘Dynamic Shield’. Aside from the redesigned front fascia, the revised exterior design of the current generation model includes new front fenders, halogen headlights, LED position lights, LED Daytime running lights, lower door sections, 18-in. alloy wheels, rear fascia and LED taillights. The reconfigured interior includes a redesigned steering wheel, seating surfaces, accent trim, rear folding seat and headliner.

The new Outlander is not just a cosmetic ‘refreshing,’ however, and features an unprecedented number of important engineering and design improvements that increase the level of refinement and overall driving experience.

social equality.

Sree Narayana Guru stressed the need for spiritual and social uplift of the downtrodden by their own efforts through the establishment of cultural and educational institutions. In the process, he denounced the superstitions that clouded the fundamental cultural convention of caste.

At a wider political spectrum of Indian society, the social reformation of India is being discussed in length across India due to variants of approaches with regards to complete eradication of dire depth of social inequality among rural poor.

Yechury, a well known speaker on range of topics such as impacts of globalisation, neo-liberalisation and sectarian politics; he opposes those policies as on long run, these factors would add to the misery of working class poor of India rather than empowering them.

First of such event is getting organised in Gulf and it is a proud moment to host a personality such as Yechury, organisers stated in the press meet.

ISC Kerala Wing invites and welcomes all its well wishers and general public to turn up and participate in the lecture session.

Jabir, Rejilal Kokkadan, convener, Santhosh Kumar, Co Convener, Jothi Paulose, Literary wing coordinator and Pradeep Menon, Media coordinator were present in the press meet along with other committee members.

EINT Automotive signs pact with Drivex MUSCAT: Placing quality foremost, EINT Automotive, a part of the WJ Towell Group, has partnered up with internationally acclaimed battery brand Drivex.

Owned by the well-known Lubatex brand in France and manufactured by the world leader in battery manufacturing-Johnson Controls in their state-of-the-art facility in Germany, Spain and Czech Republic, this world-class battery will now be available in Oman under the sole dealership of EINT Automotive.

An exclusive contract signing ceremony took place between Eint Automotive (WJ Towell Group) and Lubagulf FZE (Member of Lubatex Group) where Eint Automotive secured the sole distribution rights of Drivex batteries in the Sultanate. The contract was signed between Kasthurirengan, CEO, Towell Auto Group and Jean Francois Bouveyron, group general manager, Lubatex Group. L. R. Ragendran,

senior general manager, Towell Auto Centre, Shajahan Azeez, business operations manager, EINT Automotive, Shahine Aswathy, general manager, Lubagulf FZE and Mohammed Ayub, sales manager, Lubagulf FZE, were also present at the ceremony, says a press release.

Drivex can boast of being the only battery available in Oman which has the ‘Made in Europe’ mark. Covering the full spectrum of batteries including the latest

heavy commercial applications, Drivex batteries are a product of one of the finest, most technically advanced and well-experienced battery manufacturers in the world. The makers of Drivex batteries, Johnson Controls, are the global leaders in lead acid batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid vehicles, start-stop and electric. Johnson Controls has over 100 years of experience in manufacturing automotive batter-

ies adapted to changing customer needs. They are now the largest automotive battery supplier in the world, accounting for one third of total production in the sector each year. Mirroring EINT Automotives’ take on safeguarding the environment, Drivex batteries made under Johnson Controls, aims at developing battery technologies that cater to the current and future needs of customers.

“Drivex batteries have received immense amount of popularity in other countries due to its special features and the backing of the renowned technology of Jonson Controls and we are certain that it will grab a significant market share with its launch in Oman,” said Shajahan Azeez, business unit division, EINT Automotive - PLB Division. “Drivex has an extended warranty period of 18 months which not only reflects the durability of the product but also the confidence the makers have in it.”

H I G H E R E D UC AT I O N

Australian counselling session held for students MUSCAT: The Australian Agency for Higher Education ServicesStudyCo (AAHES-StudyCo) hosted a counselling session for students at Radisson Blu Hotel. The event was inaugurated by Hilal Al Izki, director of Postgraduate Scholarships at the Ministry of Higher Education.

Approximately 150 students attended the event. Several other government dignitaries also attended the event. The session was held to provide students and parents an opportunity to meet representatives from leading universities in Australia and help them gain more information about stud-

ying abroad, says a press release.

Izki said, “Australia is one of the best countries for students from Oman. It is also popular because of its environment and friendly people. Some of the world’s top univer-

sities are from Australia. It is also reasonable as compared to some European countries with quality of education. There are government representatives and the Consul General who personally look after

the students and their welfare. Most of the students from Oman prefer Melbourne and Queensland.”

Elizabeth Ipe, manager, AAHESStudyCo said, “This event is organised by AAHES-StudyCo every year and students from various schools and students sponsored by government organisations attend it. AAHES is well-known to provide students from the Sultanate expert assistance on studying in Australia for over a decade. Our company is based in Melbourne, with offices throughout the Gulf region. We ensure that students are supported in every step of their educational journey.”

B6

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

ROUND-UP Attractive cash gifts on irresistible Corolla

C E L E B R AT I O N

The 2016YM

Khimji’s Watches marks 7th anniversary of Shatti Al Qurum showroom

Corolla 1.6 litre

MUSCAT: Khimji’s Watches, the home of luxury in Oman, is celebrating the 7th anniversary of the opening of its present flagship showroom in Shatti Al Qurum.

This high-end showroom is host to the world’s finest time machines, jewellery and accessories testifying to a passion for perfection. It brings some of the most exclusive and cherished timekeeping brands such as Rolex, Chopard, Cartier, Piaget, Girard Perragaux, Oris, Bell & Ross, Caran d’Ache, Mikimoto, Frederique Constant and Kieninger together under one roof.

Nailesh Khimji, director, Khimji Ramdas, commented: “It is a very happy occasion for us. The whole idea behind opening a showroom of this scale and grandeur was to give our customers a refined luxurious experience that is unforgettable. The brands that we house are all legendary and are showcased in an exclusive and extravagant environment. Customer delight and satisfaction is always our top-most priority and going forward, we reiterate our commitment to uphold the greatest standards of customer services and to bring the best from around the world to Oman. We have launched some of the very unique collections recently and would request our esteemed customers to visit our showroom and view our novel addition.”

Besides the beautiful décor that conveys a deep sense of luxury and élan, what makes the Khimji’s

of up to OMR700 and

and the Corolla 2.0 litre versions are available with attractive cash gifts OMR800 respectively

It is a very happy occasion for us. The whole idea behind opening a showroom of this scale and grandeur was to give our customers a refined luxurious experience that is unforgettable Nailesh Khimji

MUSCAT: It is indeed fortunate for many customers that the Festival of Joy is on.

At this moment, the 2016YM Corolla 1.6 litre and the Corolla 2.0 litre versions are available with attractive cash gifts of up to OMR700 and OMR800 respectively. Customers are advised to

make the most of this wonderful opportunity to own one of the best-loved cars across the world, says a press release.

The feature-rich Corolla is an exceptional value, but that is not all. The 11th generation of the world famous Toyota Corolla is no less than an icon. Not only does it have a legendary reputation, it offers a truly impressive resale value, even after years of use. It was no surprise for anyone that when the Multi Drive 7S transmission equipped Toyota

Corolla was introduced in Oman, it quickly climbed to the top of the list of favourites.

“I came to know of the cash gift offer through a friend of mine.

I am now the proud owner of a shiny new Corolla. In fact, this weekend I am planning to take my friend and his family for treat – just as a way of thanking him for bringing the good news to me,” remarked an enthusiast, sporting a contented smile.

The Toyota Corolla with Multi Drive 7S allows owners to ‘Drive

Smooth and Save Smart.’ It does so by delivering a very smooth, yet powerful driving performance; topping it up with gratifying fuel efficiency. Making a strong design statement with its unique visual signature, the Corolla Multi Drive 7S signifies Toyota’s brand evolution. The Corolla’s design theme combines clean lines and balanced proportions to give it an immediate visual impact. It tapers at the front and rear of the vehicle to help emphasise the wheel arches and wheels-to-the-corner stance.

“Now there will be more funfilled driving trips and less visits to the gas station,” chuckled a proud new owner “It is really a smoother, silkier drive…one that lasts longer, goes farther on the same amount of fuel…yeah…I am living it and loving it!”

In Oman, Toyota’s outstanding product quality is supported by the nationwide parts and service network of Saud Bahwan Automotive. No wonder then that today, Toyota is one of the most trusted and well-known brands.

28TH BRANCH

Bank Sohar opens new branch in Musannah

Director, Khimji Ramdas Watches showroom impressive is the warmth and hospitality displayed by the customer service executives who make your experience highly personalised and hightouch. The Khimji’s Watches team has been specially trained by Swiss expert Jean-Francois Chevre from the Chevrier Watch Academy in brand management and marketing of luxury goods. The personnel are dedicated to effective teamwork and take special care to ensure that the customers enjoy an enriching experience at the showroom which is second to none in the world.

MUSCAT: Bank Sohar has now celebrated the formal opening of its new branch in Musannah under the auspices of Hamoud Hamed Al Wahshi, Wali of Musannah. This latest branch, which will offer the bank’s complete portfolio of products and services, marks the formal opening of the 28th branch since Bank Sohar initiated operations.

The opening of the new branch took place in the presence of Khalfan Rashid Al Taley, DGM and head of Central Operation, Khamis Masoud Al Rahbi, senior AGM and acting head Retail Banking, Mazin Mahmood Al Raisi, Senior AGM and head of Marketing & Customer Experience, and Rashid Saif Al Maskry, District Manager of the Batinah Region; together with other Bank Sohar executive management members, says a press release.

The official opening commenced with a commemorative ribbon cutting ceremony by the guest of honour followed by a tour of the branch. Al Maskry welcomed the attendees and highlighted the various achievements of the bank so far in addition to providing a detailed overview of all the products and services available to customers of the new branch.

The event concluded with Al Taley presenting a token of appreciation to Hamoud Al Wahshi on behalf of the bank.

Commenting on the official opening of Musannah Branch, Sasi Kumar, acting CEO of Bank Sohar said, “Continuing with our

customer-focused strategy from last year, the bank has made significant progress in terms of growth and expansion this year alone in terms of customer touch-points, products, services and e-services; including the introduction of new ATMs across the country, as well as the recent launch of our online banking app.

“This branch is only the latest in our network expansion plans; and whose strategic and convenient location, together with its welcoming open-plan layout, has not only strategically bolstered our branch network in the region, but has also helped in maintaining our position as the ideal choice

provider of comprehensive banking services in the region.”

The new branch, located at a prominent location just offs the main road from Muscat on the way towards Wilayat Sohar (after Al Musannah roundabout), houses a spacious design covering a range of customer friendly facilities.

Manned by qualified and friendly staff, the branch offers customers its entire range of products and services from 8am till 2pm on official working days. As with Bank Sohar’s other branches, the Musannah branch also offers customers a fullfledged ATM and CDM facility.

Commenting on this occasion, Khamis Al Rahbi said, “The bank is

committed to making its services even more accessible for its growing customer base, and one of the key goals of our expansion drive is to reach out and be close to our customers wherever they are in the Sultanate. The ideal location of this new branch, is in line with our focus on providing our growing customer base across the country with our full range of retail and commercial services at the most convenient and readily accessible locations possible. The opening of this new branch also helps provide our customers in the area with ready 24/7 access to a CDM; a facility that wasn’t available in the area prior to the branch’s opening.”

OMAN TRAFFIC SAFETY EXPO

Road safety key issue in CSR MUSCAT: All roads will lead to Oman International Exhibition Centre in Seeb today where Oman Traffic Safety Expo will showcase traffic safety solutions, says a press release.

When road safety issue crops up, the subject of corporate social responsibility (CSR) cannot be missed out. In many countries, corporates unleash campaigns to emphasise awareness on road safety in their respective countries. Many automobile giants have come forward to make roads

and vehicles safer. One of them is Mercedes Benz’s ‘Safe Roads’ campaign in India wherein the message is spread through visual aid, physical demonstrations and research projects.

Hyundai’s CSR initiative ‘Safe Move — Traffic Safety Campaign’ is directed at improving road safety. Hyundai had Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan as its brand ambassador.

Auto makers and other firms along with government entities should set aside a substantial part

of their charity spending directed at improving road safety. In India, companies such as Maruti Suzuki Ltd, Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd and Tata Motors Ltd, had an approximate combined budget of Rs112 crores allocated for corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities for 2104-15, of which 18% was set aside for road safety initiatives.

It is time for Oman to follow such examples. Shell Development Oman had initiated a successful CSR road safety programme at Shell which includes

the ‘Together for an Accident Free Oman’ campaign. From schoolchildren to Shell employees, safe driving habits were stressed.

Such events need to be done on a regular basis. Other companies should follow Shell model.

It is believed that more than 70% of the fatalities can be reduced in 10 years through education and enforcement of safety rules. The world faces a global road safety crisis. Thus firms with CSR budgets should make road safety as one of its social initiatives.

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EduTraC opens today to unveil big opportunities The expo welcomes those interested in pursuing their higher education abroad

MUSCAT: EduTraC Oman 2016 – Higher education, training & career expo – will be officially opened today at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre.

It will be inaugurated by Hamad

bin Khamis bin Abdullah Al Amri, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Manpower (MoM) in the presence of several officials and delegates from various ministries, local universities and colleges and profes-

sionals from the education sector.

The inauguration will take place at 10am and the expo will be open to the visitors from 11am onwards, says a press release.

The expo welcomes those interested in pursuing their higher education abroad to explore the variety of courses being offered and to meet representatives from universities, higher education institutions and English language course providers. Visitors can also meet leading local and international training institutes offering

vocational, technical and occupational training programmes. It will also enable visitors to find suitable job opportunities offered by top public and private organisations operating in different sectors in the Sultanate. The participating countries are United Kingdom, The United States of America, Australia, Malaysia, Cyprus, India, Lebanon, Spain, etc.

EduTraC Oman is organised by Al Nimr Expo and will be open for visitors till Thursday from 10am to 8pm.

DIRECT SUPPORT PROGRAMME

Zubair SEC extends DSP deadline MUSCAT: In view of the growing interest and increasing number of applicants, Zubair Small Enterprises Centre (Zubair SEC) has extended the deadline for submitting application to the Direct Support Programme (DSP) for the year 2017.

The last date to submit applications to the Direct Support Programme for the year 2017 will be November 3, says a press release.

Since the announcing of the fourth edition of the Direct Support Programme in September 2016, Zubair SEC has received a tremendous response from interested applicants from across the Sultanate.

The programme has so far signed up 28 winners through the past three editions. The Direct Support Programme which provides support and mentorship to highpotential novice entrepreneurs and young business owners was first launched in 2013 by Zubair SEC, a social responsibility initiative of The Zubair Corporation.

The Zubair SEC team attributes the great response to the success and achievements accomplished by the winners of the programme in its first three rounds.

Lina Hussein, head of Communication & Social Impact at Zubair SEC said, “Through the past three years, our flagship Direct Support

Programme has been achieving increasing appreciation and recognition by owners of small businesses, entrepreneurs, and several stakeholders from the public and private sectors. This year we are pleased to have on board, leading investment company OmInvest as a strategic partner in support of one seat of the 10 winners seats.

They will also extend business development opportunities through their companies to the winners of the Direct Support Programme.

Such collaboration and association is a tangible example of prime synergies and bridging relations between large enterprises and SME-supporting organisations such as Zubair SEC.” She added, “It is to the effect of bridging the gap between large and

small enterprises that Zubair SEC has been investing tremendous effort to develop and build credible pioneering programmes and initiatives that would be attractive and reliable for both large and small enterprises to associate with and develop sustainable business relations.”

Zubair SEC’s DSP is considered one of the most important competitive programmes in the field of entrepreneurship in the Sultanate.

The programme aims to create a spirit of positive competition between Zubair SEC’s members to enrol in the programme, and thus earn a package of essential services to launch and maintain successful and sustainable businesses through set working plans implemented in cooperation between the centre and the programme members.

The programme rewards its members who show commitment and dedication towards the success of their projects through the sound application of the centre’s guidance, recommendations and consulting. Projects and members should reflect in proper strategic planning during the course of their business based on a well-planned feasibility study and best business management practices in accordance. The centre selects a specific number of members each year to join the DSP who directly benefit from the provided services in addition to a financial grant to support their winning projects.

The main terms and conditions for applying to the programme are: All Omanis are welcome to apply; applicants should have a clear understanding of the type of business they have; applicants need to present a business plan; applicants need to be members at Zubair SEC; non-members are welcome to sign up at the Centre then apply for the DSP during the application period; Zubair SEC will accept new applications from current and new members to join the programme and during the months following the launch of the fourth round, projects and the performance of their owners will be assessed accordingly.

VA L U E O F F E R S

Ooredoo introduces new Shahry Business Packs MUSCAT: Seeking to inspire customers with personalised and comprehensive services, Ooredoo is giving business owners and top executives in Oman a lift with the introduction of two new Shahry Business Packs.

Providing greater cost efficiency and value, the Shahry 50 and Shahry 100 bundles promise to serve as an all-in-one solution with more data, minutes, roaming and SMS to manage business growth. The bundles are set to provide a truly global experience, granting 24/7 worldwide connectivity with the same exceptional service they enjoy at home, accessible from al-

most anywhere in the world, says a press release.

For OMR50 per month, customers can enjoy the added value of Ooredoo’s Shahry 50 bundle, which

delivers unlimited Company Net minutes, unlimited SMS, 7GB of data, 30 roaming minutes and 1,500 local any net calls, among other benefits. Those looking to receive more than double the value can opt for Shahry 100 which provides unlimited company net minutes, SMS, and any net minutes in addition to 60 roaming minutes, 60 international minutes and 15GB of data for just OMR100 per month.

Monther Al Mamari, director of Business Product Management at Ooredoo, said, “Throughout Oman, businesses of all sizes are growing and encountering different challenges that require them to be con-

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nected to customers, suppliers and employees at all times. To that end, we developed two new higher tier plans that cater to executive staff and business owners who need to operate efficiently around the clock.

Whether customers are working from the comfort of their homes or are on the move during business trips, Shahry 50 and Shahry 100 provide them with the tools they need to boost productivity, growth and easily stay connected.”

A long-time partner of businesses across Oman, Ooredoo has remained dedicated to developing the very best solutions, rates, and services to support Oman’s top executives.

LU C K Y D R AW

Smile Hypermarket gives away prizes to promotion winners MUSCAT: Smile Hypermarket, the fastest growing retail chain in the GCC region, organised a ‘Shop and Smile’ lucky draw at its Saham and Al Khuwair outlets recently. The prize distribution ceremony of the draw was held on Friday at its Saham outlet.

Ismail Chakarath, managing director - Smile Hypermarket, Jassim Kuniyil, vice chairman, Ameer Chakarath, regional director, Saleh A’Ziyabi, executive member and other management officials were present at the function, says a press release.

The promotion received an overwhelming response. Rashed

Salim Al Fazari, Amerah Ali Salim Al Abdulsalam, Ali Salim Humaid Al Buriki, Abdullah Yousif and Bala Manikandan were winners of a Toyota Corolla each. Other winners received gold coins and several other prizes too. All customers who shopped for OMR5 and above were eligible to enter the draw.

Ismail said, “We are planning to launch many more similar promotions in the near future. Smile Hypermarket will continue to offer lowest prices and best services to our customers. They can trust Smile Hypermarket while shopping for best value and best services.”

QUALITY PRODUCTS

Sultan Center launches American Products Week MUSCAT: The Sultan Center (TSC) launched American Products Week recently at its Qurum store. The event was inaugurated

by Assiya Ashraf-Miller, deputy chief of Mission of the US Embassy in Muscat, Oman.

During the week-long event, customers will have the opportunity to experience the best of American products across a range of departments, says a press release.

Mahmoud Al Sheikh, marketing manager - TSC stated, “We thank the US Embassy for their continuous support of the American Produces week. Sultan Center is known for importing an extensive variety of American products from meat and seafood to produce, dairy, supermarket and home centre. We always seek to bring the best in quality and variety of American-based products to our customers.”

Al Sheikh further added, the campaign is another example of TSC’s commitment to catering to the needs of its customers by

bringing them the best products and brands from across the globe.

Assiya said, “It is a privilege to be here today for the launch of the ‘American Products Week’ at The Sultan Center. I would like to thank The Sultan Center for devoting an entire week to showcase and celebrate American products. I hope this annual tradition continues for many years to come. The Sultan Center imports via air and sea shipments more than 5,000 products made in the United States. I am proud to say that these ‘Made in the USA’ products entered Oman dutyfree, thanks to the US-Oman Free Trade Agreement. The US-Oman Free Trade Agreement facilitates trade and investment between our two countries and provides businesses, like The Sultan Center, an opportunity to offer high-quality American goods to consumers in Oman. I wish The Sultan Center a successful ‘American Products Week’ and applaud its continued commitment to offering American-made goods.”

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

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Bank Muscat gender diversity initiatives gaining momentum The human resources policy pursued by

On the occasion of Omani Women’s Day, Bank Muscat is proud to acknowledge the valuable contributions made by Omani women for the progress and development of Oman. Aimed at creating a sustainable future for the country, Bank Muscat provides excellent career opportunities and supports all major development programmes targeted at women, who are assuming more responsibilities and senior positions

Bank Muscat is distinct for gender diversity as 48 per cent of employees are women holding various positions, including senior management positions

AbdulRazak Ali Issa MUSCAT: Bank Muscat, the flagship financial services provider in the Sultanate, in step with its ‘Let’s Do More’ vision and commitment to partnership in gender diversity initiatives, marked the Omani Women’s Day in appreciation of the valuable contributions of women to the family, society and nation.

The human resources policy pursued by Bank Muscat is distinct for gender diversity as 48 per cent of employees are women holding various positions, including senior management positions.

AbdulRazak Ali Issa, chief executive, said: “On the occasion of Omani Women’s Day, Bank Muscat is proud to acknowledge the valuable contributions made by Omani women for the progress and development of Oman. As the nation’s premier financial institution, Bank Muscat provides all support for women employees to realise their full potential in career and life. In keeping with its leadership position, the bank strives to

Chief executive

set an example in all activities as the gender diversity initiatives go hand-in-hand with the progressive policies pursued by the government, stemming from the fact that nearly 50 per cent of Omani population comprises women.”

Ali Issa added: “Aimed at creating a sustainable future for the

country, Bank Muscat provides excellent career opportunities and supports all major development programmes targeted at women, who are assuming more responsibilities and senior positions. The success stories of women employees prove that the bank has paved the way for a promising fu-

ture aimed at sustaining superior achievements by women throughout the coming years.”

Bank Muscat enjoys the distinction of being the best place to work and a great deal of this achievement is attributable to the healthy work-life balance maintained by employees, especially women. The

bank remains committed to promoting the cherished Omani family values integral to social development in Oman.

The bank supports women employees for career achievements by offering educational and training opportunities within and outside Oman. The bank is focused on developing its leadership pool from among young Omanis and thereby contribute to Oman’s future by investing in talent which is the real wealth of the nation.

A cross-section of the bank’s women employees echoed appreciation of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said for the support extended to Omani women in all spheres. Nawal bint Mohammed Al Maktoomi, who has been working with Bank Muscat since 2007 and is currently holding the position of branch manager – Liwa, said: “The Royal directive designating a day in appreciation of Omani woman is a clear evidence of His Majesty’s attention to provide Omani women with all support to make valuable contributions to the nation.”

Zuwaina Abdullah Al Sharji, manager – Meethaq, has been working with Bank Muscat for the past 11 years and feels the bank has helped her to greatly improve her managerial and leadership skills by enrolling her in various training programmes. “The leadership role in Bank Muscat is challenging, but the professional and friendly environment has helped me to tackle challenges. My focus is to offer superior services to valued customers and sustain the bank’s growth momentum,” she added.

Marwa Ibrahim Saleh joined the bank in 2006 and is presently manager - MBD branch. “The bank offers a healthy environment and all required support to achieve one’s career ambitions. The bank has helped me to acquire leadership skills and I hope to further develop these skills to make valuable contributions to the bank’s suc-

cess and the country’s progress,” Marwa said.

With women comprising a major customer segment, Bank Muscat offers unique products and services targeted at them. Offering banking excellence, Bank Muscat enriches women’s life at all levels.

The Zeinah suite of products and services offered for women customers is based on the premise that women prefer to use special banking services that preserve their privacy.

Catering to the unique needs, Zeinah offers privacy and a relaxed atmosphere for women at Bank Muscat branches.

The first-of-its-kind ‘Zeinah Cares’ initiative launched by Bank Muscat, in association with the Ministry of Social Development, supports charitable organisations in the Sultanate.

Bringing together the bank’s women customers, the ‘Zeinah Cares’ initiative blends banking convenience with charity and community service in a seamless fashion, wherein the baisas available in their account balance is donated towards charity. The participation is voluntary and optional.

In step with smarter strategies aimed at providing a distinct banking experience, Bank Muscat offers exclusive rewards and prizes for women in al Mazyona Savings Scheme.

The bank is all set to reward Zeinah women customers with a special prize draw coinciding with the Omani Women’s Day. The exclusive al Mazyona draw for Zeinah customers offers a total prize money of OMR100,000 to be shared by 10 winners across Oman. Customers maintaining a monthly balance of OMR1,000 are eligible to participate in the special draw and every extra OMR100 gives an extra chance to win.

Reaching out to women entrepreneurs, al Wathbah, the bank’s SME department, has launched various skill development programmes.

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HIS MAJESTY’S CUP FOOTBALL DRAW ON NOVEMBER 1 >C3

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ROAD TO OMAN: KNAPPE CLOSES IN ON SUMMIT The 27-year-old Alexander Knappe’s second victory of the season was enough to guarantee his playing privileges on the European Tour next season, with his place in the all-important top 15 of the Road to Oman Rankings secured. >C2

Taha spells out ‘Vision 2020’ as OSA gears up for elections Revealing the ‘Olympic’ plans chalked out for talented swimmer Isa Al Adawi, OSA chief Taha Al Kishry also spoke about the achievements of the present board and their ambitious Vision 2020 REVEALING PLANS: Oman Swimming Association chief Taha Al Kishry, centre, speaks during a press conference at the OSA Headquaters on Monday. – JUN ESTRADA / Times of Oman

A. SESHAGIRI RAO

raoas@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Even as the Oman Swimming Association (OSA) is gearing up to conduct association elections, the chief of Sultanate’s swimming body Taha bin Sulaiman Al Kishry and his fellow board members are drawing plans for their ambitious Vision 2020 Programme.

The fact that the OSA is chalking out plans with an eye on 2020 Olympics in Tokyo is reason enough for Taha and his team to speak about their achievements during the 2013-16 tenure and their vision for the next fouryear period.

The latest beneficiary of OSA’s programmes is Oman’s leading swimmer Isa Al Adawi. Under an agreement with the organisers of the Tokyo 2020, Isa will get an opportunity to train and compete in Japan till the Games start in four years time.

Speaking at a press conference organised on Monday mainly to reveal the details of the Isa Al Adawi’s ‘Olympic’ progamme, for which the OSA board members deserve all the credit, Taha and his colleagues utilised the occasion to

highlight the achievements of the present board while expressing their desire to continue with the good work for the development of Oman swimming.

Taha, who will be seeking another term as the chairman in the November 29 elections, first spoke about the programme planned for Isa Al Adawi, one of Oman’s most promising talents and one who won many medals in various regional tournaments in the recent times.

“Isa is a very talented swimmer and has won laurels for the country in many regional championships. But we have set higher goals for him, we want to see him qualify for the Olympics instead of depending on wild cards for his participation.”

“So we have worked out a programme where he can study as well as train and compete in highly rated championships till the 2020 Olympics,” Taha, who was recently elected unopposed as the Secretary-General of the Asian Swimming Federation (AASF), said.

The arrangement has been made possible thanks to Taha’s good relations with the international swimming officials, especially with the Japan

Swimming Federation.

“We (the OSA) have been doing such arrangements for other talented swimmers locally with the educational institutions like schools and colleges in Oman. But this is time we have worked out a plan for Isa with 2020 Olympics in mind,” he added.

“Isa will be travelling to Tokyo on a scholarship, under which he will be able to study in a college, and train and compete in the Japanese championships right up to the start of the Olympics. The championships there are highly competitive... remember most of the Japanese swimmers who took part in the Rio Olympics came through those championships. I am sure Isa will benefit from his stay in Japan,” he added.

Locally, the OSA has already helped around of five long-distance swimmers, facilitating their admissions to colleges in Oman, three of whom have already been graduated.

Two of Oman’s well-known swimmers — Mohammed Naseeb and Abdulrahman Al Qulaibi, were on hand at the press briefing to vouch for Taha’s claims of supporting young Omani talents by facilitating their educational en-

gagements with the local schools and colleges.

“The OSA has been working with a clear vision and has been giving the Omani swimmers utmost care. Thanks to their efforts, the level has gone up not just in the performance of the swimmers but also in the technical and administrative aspects,” Mohammed Naseeb said.

“All credit to the OSA and their efforts we were able to win, for the first time, ten gold medals at the GCC championships (in Dammam in August),” Al Qulaibi said referring to achievements of the national team, of which he was part of.

Many challenges Turning his attention to other achievements of the present board, Taha said: “Our endeavour has always been to develop swimming across the Sultanate. At the beginning of this term (2013-2016), we spoke about the further popularising the sport and developing the training centres across the country. We have already achieved success in that front.”

OSA now runs six training centres in Buraimi, Musandam, Muscat, Sohar, Nizwa and Salalah.

“Our plans of training the local talents at these centres have been going on well. Now our next goal... our responsibility, is to have these boys picked by various clubs. By 2018 we would like to see these swimmers representing different clubs when we will launch our inter-club championships,” Taha said.

OSA General Secretary Qais Al Zakwani, who will also be seeking another term, said: “At the beginning, our goal was to broaden the base and we have achieved that to a great extend as we now have around 800 swimmers. Our next goal is to raise the level of their performance.”

Speaking about the development at the technical and administrative front, he said: “One of our many challenges was to develop professionally qualified referees, which is vital for the development of the sport. We now have 18 international referees, 12 of them are FINA accredited officials.”

Lone challenger Meanwhile, in the November 29 elections Taha, an Ahli-Sidab Club nominee, will be facing a lone challenger for the post of the chairmanship in the form of Nasser Al

KARTING

List of candidates Chairman: Taha Al Kishry (AhliSidab), Nasser bin Said Al Alawi (Al Talee’a).

Vice-chairman: Khalid bin Ahmed Al Shuhi (Kasab), Tariq Al Hashmi (Al Kamil Wa Al Wafi).

General Secretary: Qais Al Zakwani (Al Khabourah), Khalid Al Dahli (Ahli-Sidab).

Treasurer: Ahmed Mubarak (Suwaiq), Ashraf bin Said Al Harbi (Quriyat), Mumtaz bin Fakir Al Balushi (Oman).

Members: Abdulmunim Al Alawi (Jalan), Mohammed Salim (Baushere), Salim Al Alawi (Al Kamil Wa Al Wafi), Sami Al Riyami (Nizwa), Dr Nasser Al Aufi (Bahla), Ahmed Sulaiman (Samayil), Said Masoud (Al Musannah), Salim Al Balushi (Bidiya), Qasim Al Ajmi (Sohar), Ali AL Sheedi (Saham), Malallah Al Busaidi (Oman) and Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Hakim (Al Nasr).

D AY- N I G H T T E S T

Oman’s Abdullah Al Rawahi strong title contender at Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals in Naples MUSCAT: Oman’s DD2 champions Abdullah Al Rawahi along with his teammates on a strong UAE and Oman contingent has reached the Mediterranean City of Naples, Southern Italy, to take part in the 2016 Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals.

Omani ace Abdullah Al Rawahi and his teammates will be competing in various categories during the Finals, which will run till October 22 and see participation of around 360 champion drivers from around the world.

The event features Rotax Max champions from more than 50 countries competing for one of the most prestigious titles in international karting.

In last year’s edition of the Grand Finals, UAE-based Luke Varley, a former Max world champion, was in contention for the DD2 World Championship Title until a crash ended his hopes while running in second place. This year, three top-ranked drivers with huge international experience are vying to continue the UAE’s strong run in this category; Grand Finals regular Taymour Kermanshahchi is joined by Oman’s DD2 Champion, Abdullah Al Rawahi, who has been performing impressively throughout the summer in European and World Championship competition. Alongside that strong pairing is reigning Indy Lights Champion 2016, Edward Jones, who once again has the opportunity to represent the country of his birth at the highest level in karting.

Abu Dhabi schoolboy Rashid Al Dhaheri makes history by becoming the first Emirati driver to com-

Alawi of Al Talee’a Club.

The contest for the vice-chairmanship will also be a two-horse race between Khalid bin Ahmed Al Shuhi of Kasab and Tariq bin Hashmi of Al Kamil Wa Al Wafi.

Qais Al Zakwani, who is a representative of Al Khabourah, will face off against Ahli-Sidab’s Khalid Al Dahli for the general secretary’s post.

Bravo keeps Windies afloat DUBAI: West Indies kept Pakistan at bay with Darren Bravo playing another stubborn knock on the fifth and final day of the first day-night Test here on Monday. At dinner, Bravo was unbeaten on a well-made 102 not out and with him was Jason Holder (8) as West Indies required another 114 runs with Pakistan needing four wickets for a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. — Agencies SCOREBOARD

READY FOR THE FINALS: Oman DD2 champions Abdullah Al Rawahi, standing right, poses for a group photo along with his Team UAE and Oman teammates. – Supplied photo

pete in the Micro Max category and, at the age of eight years, is the youngest driver in the competition. Al Dhaheri has been competing in Italy throughout the summer and is a registered competitor in the UAE Rotax Max Challenge together with his Team UAE teammate, 10-year-old Oscar McElroy.

The duo will be looking to impress in their first appearance at this grandstand event.

Team UAE Manager Guy Sheffield said: “It is an honour and privilege for our team to be part of the Rotax Grand Finals with such a strong line-up of drivers.

The strength in depth improves each year, and at this 17th edition of the event we are confident of an impressive showing by the drivers who will fly both the UAE and Oman flag this weekend.”

Team UAE and Oman driver line-up: Micro Max: Oscar McElroy (Top ranked UAE-based Micro Max competitor), Rashid Al Dhaheri (Leading Micro Max Emirati National).

Mini Max: Ziggy Kermanshahchi (Top ranked UAE-based Mini Max competitor).

Junior Max: Tehmur Chohan (UAE Junior Max Runner-Up); Lucas Petersson (Top ranked UAE-based

Junior Max competitor).

Max: Pasqual Pook (UAE Max Champion); Giulio Peroni (UAE Max Runner-Up).

DD2: Abdullah Al Rawahi (Oman DD2 Champion); Taymour Kermanshahchi (Former UAE Junior Max Champion); Edward Jones (Indy Lights Champion 2016).

DD2 Master: Hussain Umid Ali (UAE DD2 Master Champion); DD2 Master - Anthony Hogg (UAE DD2 Master Runner-Up).

Pakistan 1st innings: 579 for 3 decl.

(Azhar Ali 302 not out, Sami Aslam 90, Babar Azam 69, Asad Shafiq 67) West Indies 1st innings: 357 (D. Bravo 87, M. Samuels 76; Yasir Shah 5-121) Pakistan 2nd innings: 123 (Sami Aslam 44: D. Bishoo 8-49) West Indies 2nd innings (at dinner): K. Brathwaite b Amir 6 L. Johnson lbw b Amir 47 D. Bravo not out 102 M. Samuels c Ahmed b Amir 4 J. Blackwood lbw b Nawaz 15 R. Chase b Shah 35 S. Dowrich b Riaz 0 J. Holder not out 8 Extras: (b-1, lb-6, nb-3, w-5) 15 Total: (for six wkts; 83 overs) 232 Fall of wicket: 1-27, 2-87, 3-95, 4-116, 5-193, 6-194 Bowling: Amir 19-5-52-3 (5w), Sohail 6-1-12-0, Shah 32-4-98-1, Nawaz 13-324-1, Riaz 13-1-39-1 (3nb) Toss: Pakistan Umpires: Richard Illingworth (ENG) and Paul Reiffel (AUS) Tv umpire: Martin Gough (ENG) Match referee: Jeff Crowe (NZL)

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

SPORTS TENNIS

Fatma Al Nabhani advances in Lagos MUSCAT: Omani ace tennis player Fatma Al Nabhani advanced to the second round of the $25,000 ITF Pro Circuit Governor’s Cup in Lagos, Nigeria on Monday.

In the first round of the singles competition, Fatma defeated India’s Prathana Thombare in straight sets 6-4, 6-3. In the second round, Fatma will take on French eighth seed Harmony Tan, an easy 6-1, 6-1 winners over Japanese wildcard Ange Oby Kajuru.

Fatma will start her doubles campaign in the company of Ukraine’s Valeriya Strakhova on Tuesday, when the pair take on the Indian duo of Kyra Shroff and

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Road to Oman: Knappe closes in on the summit The 27-year-old’s second victory of the season was enough to guarantee his

Dhruthi Venugopal. The Omani lass also took part in the first Governor’s Cup last week, when her singles challenge ended in quarterfinals while Fatma and Valeriya lost in the semifinals of the doubles.

playing privileges on the European Tour next season, with his place in the

ALL SMILES: Alexander Knappe emerged victorious to climb from ninth to third in the Road to Oman.

all-important top 15 of the Road to Oman Rankings secured

MUSCAT: The Hainan Open in China was reduced to 36 holes due to torrential rain conditions and it was Germany’s Alexander Knappe who emerged victorious to climb from ninth to third in the Road to Oman, which gives him

a fantastic chance of Rankings glory with just two events remaining before the season-ending NBO Golf Classic Grand Final, set to take place at the spectacular Almouj Golf, Muscat from November 2 to 5.

The 27-year-old’s second victory of the season was enough to guarantee his playing privileges on the European Tour next season, with his place in the allimportant top 15 of the Road to Oman Rankings secured.

After earning €37,483 from this triumph in China, Knappe took his season total to 131,688 points and is now just 22,211 off Road to Oman leader Jordan L Smith and 16,223 clear of New Zealand’s Olympic athlete Ryan Fox in fourth with the big-money Foshan Open, again in China, set to take place this week followed by the hotly anticipated Ras Al Khaimah 2016 Golf Challenge in the UAE and the season-closing showdown in Muscat.

“Everybody before this tournament said ‘you already have you card’,” said a delighted Knappe who will join the European Challenge Tour’s elite in the Sultanate of Oman when the top 45 ranked players compete for a prize fund of €400,000 at the prestigious NBO Golf Classic Grand Final.

“The top 15 players at the conclusion of play will earn promotion to the European Tour for next season while the top three ranked players will share in a lucrative €60,000 Bonus Pool.

“However I felt that I was just on the edge and I thought anything could happen with these big tournaments now. I felt as though I really needed to play well and have one more top three. To have done that here is fantastic.”

Spain’s Pep Angles turned up the heat on his season in timely fashion in China as he finished runner-up to climb from 20th to 12th in the Rankings and right into the mix for a shot at a European Tour card. Scotland’s Scott Henry also enjoyed a stellar weekend, with his third place finish securing his spot in the Almouj Golf field as he catapulted from 45th to 28th in the Rankings.

MOTORSPORT

Omantel Ozone Team win endurance crown

MUSCAT: Omantel Ozone Team clinched the top honours at the six-hour Karting Endurance Competition organised by Oman Automobile Association (OAA)

at OAA’s Muscat Speedway Track here recently.

Omantel Ozone Team won the title after completing 358 laps, their best time of 56.237 seconds

coming in the eight lap. Meanwhile, W. Brothers Team, who completed 358 laps with their best lap time of 56.439 seconds, took the second place.

The third place went to Omantel Samani 2 Team after completing 357 laps. They recorded their best time of 56.313 seconds in their eighth lap.

CRICKET

SMARTEN UP DRIVE SAFE

Match-fixing was at its worst in 1996: Akhtar

A TIMES OF OMAN HANDS-FREE DRIVING INITIATIVE

KARACHI: Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar claimed that match-fixing was at its peak in 1996 and said the environment in the dressing room was far from conducive.

“Trust me it was the worst possible dressing room environment at that time (1996),” Akhtar said on Geo News channel.

“There was a lot going on than just cricket and it was difficult to focus on cricket in the dressing room. It was a bad environment,” he added.

The controversial pacer’s claims have come just two days after Pakistani stalwarts — Javed Miandad and Shahid Afridi — settled a dispute which had the potential of once again bringing up the match-fixing allegations and scandal in Pakistan cricket.

Due to mediation from third parties, former captain Miandad took back allegations against Afridi, claiming that he had fixed matches for money. - PTI

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

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SPORTS CRICKET

C O M M E N TA RY

FOOTBALL

Courage of the man for all formats

Oman end UAE tour with victory

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MUSCAT: After two disappointing defeats, Oman completed their tour of neighbouring United Arab Emirates (UAE) with a 72run victory in their third and final practice match against the UAE in Dubai on Monday.

Oman, after being asked to bat first, failed to complete their quota of 50 overs but put up competitive total of 241 all out in 47.1 overs.

Arun Poulose was the top scorer with 47 runs. Zeeshan Siddiqui

hen you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it, and this Paulo Coelho shot of optimism looked set for a pleasing repeat at Dharamsala on Sunday until MS Dhoni stepped out to hammer a ball tossed up by Mitchell Santner outside off stump, missed it, stood in the middle waiting for a response from Virat Kohli for a quick single as the ball hit the pad and rolled to cover before realising that Kohli wasn’t quick or keen and that it was all over.

At the non-striker’s end was, as Coelho would say, a man who has found his path and has sufficient courage to make mistakes.

Obviously, Kohli was sorry for his slow response that resulted in Dhoni’s run-out, but the courage he showed by not sacrificing his wicket for his skipper, was the sort of positivity and self-belief that would put a smile on many faces. Here’s the man for all formats for team India, the bloke who has found his path. He must not be afraid of making what looks like mistakes for the common, confused lot.

Dhoni got it all right for the better part of the day.

He won the toss that helped him make the right call, though the decision to bowl first was never a result of a correct reading of the pitch.

It was the dew factor in the hilltown that influenced Dhoni to bowl first, not the possibility that was waiting to happen for the Umesh Yadav and Hardik Pandya.

Dhoni’s gamble in handing the new ball to the debutant Pandya was the second piece in the plot that fell nicely and surprisingly into place. Pandya was hit for three fours in his first over, which was the second of the New Zealand innings, and another over like that would have put the spring back in Martin Guptill’s steps, but with the last ball of the over the destiny of the visitors was put on an incredibly ridiculous, but now so familiar, path.

Dhoni’s next gesture was even more outside the box.

With New Zealand struggling at 57 for the loss of five top wickets, he called in Kedar Jadhav who has never bowled in an ODI match before, even as tried and tested options such as Amit Mishra and Axar Patel were waiting for their turn.

Jadhav almost claimed a wicket in his fist over — James Neesham was lucky to survive the lbw shout off the last ball of the 17th over—and put the visitors on life support with two

Here’s the man (Virat Kohli) for all formats for team India, the bloke who has found his path wickets in a row in his next over. That was the sort of brilliant, unconventional way of thinking which has been put to great effect

by Dhoni throughout his career, and it looked like the skipper was about to recreate the old magic.

When Dhoni joined Kohli in the 20th over, the question was not about if the pair could do it, but about how they would do it. Dhoni eased himself into the role swiftly. An edgy but powerful six off the 14th ball he faced set the tone, a brutal square cut past extra cover off Tim Southee announced his intention, and at the end of the 26th over, India needed 44 runs from 24 overs, with Kohli just posting another 50 and Dhoni scoring a run-a-ball 19.

That was when Indian fans began visualising the end, and it was about who was going to do it: Kohli or Dhoni?

At the end of the 33rd over, India needed three runs to post an easy, guaranteed win, and Kohli hit the first ball of the next over straight over bowler Ish Sodhi to end the issue.

If Southee had gathered the return catch Kohli offered off the third ball of the 28th over, or if Kohli had gone for a desperate dash in response to the mid-pitch dilemma Dhoni found himself in in the 29th over, the day wouldn’t have had the end it ultimately had had.

Dhoni and Kohli wanted something, so were we, and the universe conspired in helping one to achieve it.

Fair enough. It’s the possibility, and the uncertainty, of having such a dream come true that makes life in the days of big-time cricket interesting.

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

made 45 while opening batsman Zeeshan Maqsood and Mehran Khan down the order contributed 38 and 20 runs respectively.

Rajesh Ranpura then struck early to remove both the UAE openers Rohan Mustafa (0) and Mohammed Qasim (10) as the UAE started their chase shakily.

Later Zeeshan Maqsood claimed four wickets to break the back of UAE, who finally folded up for 169 runs in 42.4 overs.

SCOREBOARD

OMAN Zeeshan Maqsood c Shanil b A. Raza 38 Arun Poulose lbw Mohammed Qasim 47 Khawar Ali c Shanil b Ahmed Raza 3 Jatinder Singh b Amjad Javed 46 Ajay Lalcheta run out 6 Z. Siddiqui c M. Usman b R. Mustafa 45 M. Nadeem c M. Shanil b A. Javed 14 Swapnil Khadye (not out) 10 Mehran Khan c G. Shabber b A. Javed 20 Rajesh Ranpura c G. Shabber b A. Javed 0 Munis Ansari lbw b Rohan Mustafa 1 Extras (lb-3, w-8) 11 Total (all out, 47.5 overs) 241 Fall of wickets: 1-84, 2-92, 3-94, 4-102, 5-193, 6-201, 7-216, 8-238, 9-238.

Bowling: Atif Ali Khan 8-2-36-0 (w-2); Amjad Javed 9-0-59-4 (w-1); Muhammed Shanil 3-0-23-0; Rohan Mustafa 8.5-0-44-2 (w-1); Ahmed Raza 9-1-30-2 (w-3); M.ohammed Qasim 10-0-46-1.

UAE Rohan Mustafa c Khadye b Ranpura 0 M. Qasim c Khadye b Ranpura 10 G. Shabber c Lalcheta b Jatinder 44 S. Anwar c Khadye b M. Nadeem 17 M. Usman c Siddiqui b Z. Maqsood 54 Rameez Shahzad run out 1 R. Singh c Siddiqui b Z. Maqsood 18 A. Javed c Ranpura b Z. Maqsood 2 Ahmed Raza run out 3 Muhammed Shanil (not out) 2 A. Khan c Khawar Ali b Z. 0 Extras (lb-7, w-10, nb-1) 18 Total (all out; 42.4 overs) 169 Fall of wickets: 1-2, 2-36, 3-77, 4-88, 5-92, 6-146, 7-152, 8-162, 9-169.

Bowling: R. Ranpura 7-2-28-2; M.Ansari 7-2-15-0 (nb-1, w-2); M. Khan 4-0-15-0; M. Nadeem 9-0-26-1 (w-2); K. Ali 6-0-35-0 (w-2); J. Singh 3-0-13-1 (w-2); Ajay Lalcheta 3-0-16-0; Zeeshan Maqsood 3.4-0-14-4.

His Majesty’s Cup football draw on November 1 MUSCAT: The Oman Football Association (OFA) will conduct the draw of His Majesty’s Cup Football Championship on November 1.

The draw ceremony will be presided over by His Highness Sayyid Fatik bin Fahr bin Taimur Al Said, Secretary-General at the Ministry of Heritage and Culture.

All 14 teams of Omantel Professional League, 14 First Division and four Second Division Teams and two yet to be qualified teams will enter the draw for the round of 32.

During the ceremony, OFA chief Sheikh Salim bin Said Al Wahaibi, will deliver a speech. Saham Club are the defending champions.

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

SPORTS GOLF

Ras Al Hamra team walk away with Chrysler Cup RUNNERS-UP: Clann na hOman Ladies team who finished runners-up. – Supplied photo

Jumeirah, Al Ain claim Gaelic football honours In the men’s final.

Jumeiah notched an excellent victory over Abu Dhabi, while the Clann na hOman Club won the plate final.

In the Ladies final Al Ain GAA pipped Clann na hOman Club

MUSCAT: Jumeirah Gaels emerged champions of the Gaelic Football Tournament hosted by Clann na hOman at the Sultan School and flew back with the Douglas OHI cup. In the men’s final. Jumeiah notched an excellent victory over Abu Dhabi, while the local Clann na hOman Club won the plate final against a spirited Riyadh based Naomh Alee team.

Meanwhile, in the Ladies Tournament, Al Ain GAA club pipped the local Clann na hOman team in the final by the tightest of margins in what was a thrilling encounter.

The Abu Dhabi ladies were victorious in the ladies plate competition Sixteen teams from across the region competed in a hotly con-

tested championship which delivered a fantastic exhibition of skill, pace and score taking.

As this competition is part of the Middle East Leagues referees from Gaelic Football headquarters in Dublin, Ireland, were flown in to officiate at the competition.

The men’s Player of the Tournament Award was given to Peter Acheson who now plays with the Jumeirah Gaels Club. Peter recently moved to Dubai from Ireland with work commitments after spending the summer competing at the highest level in the All Ireland Gaelic football championships with Tipperary who were semifinalists in this year’s championships.

The Clann na hOman player of the tournament will hopefully not be Peter’s only award this month as he has been nominated for the prestigious All Star awards back in Ireland after a summer of stellar performances. The All-Star award is the highest honour which can be given to a Gaelic Football player and highlights the level of the game in the Middle East.

A fantastic social event was hosted in the Radisson Blu Ho-

tel, Muscat, after the competition where the cups and awards were presented to the winning teams and individuals. Approximately eleven different nationalities participated in the competition from all over the globe ranging from Canada to Australia.

Conor Lynch, the secretary of Clann na hOman, paid tribute to the Sultan School for hosting the event and thanked all the sponsors on the day which included Doughlas OHI, Radission Blu, Interserve, Hydroserve, Al Rafaa, Artco, STS, IDTEC, Muscat Duty Free, Turner and Townsend and Effect Energy Drinks.

BBC Breakfast’s Mike Bushell recently described Gaelic football as one of the fastest growing sports in the UK, but it has been popular in the Middle East for over 30 years and is the second most popular sport in Bahrain.

Alan Kelly, Club treasurer, commented that it was great for a club like Clann na hOman to host such an event in Muscat and stated that all players and supporters who attended the tournament expressed a wish to return to further explore this beautiful city and country.

MUSCAT: The Chrysler Cup 2016, Oman’s premium inter-club team golf tournament organised

by Dhofar Automotive in association with Oman Golf Committee concluded recently with the Ras Al Hamra Golf Club emerging as clear winners of the tournament.

Modelled as per the Ryder’s Cup, the two-day event witnessed intense competition between the teams from the Ghala Golf Club, Almouj Golf Club, Ras Al Hamra Club and Muscat Hills Golf Club.

Day 1 of the tournament involved ‘Greensomes & Fourball’ match play with Ras Al Hamra Team in the lead, followed by teams from Al Mouj, Muscat Hills and Ghala Golf respectively. Day 2 hosted the ‘Singles’ bringing out some amazing performances from the golfers with Muscat Hills doing exceptionally well and pushing the defending champions Almouj Golf to the third place.

This year featured the all-new 2016 Chrysler 200C was up for grabs to whosoever could score a hole-in-one at Hole no.2.

All of the participating golfers

CHAMPIONS: Ras Al Hamra Golf Club players with Ziyad Al Zubair, Board Member, and Chris Edwards, General Manager for Dhofar Automotive. – Supplied photo

did their best to drive home the Chrysler 200C and a few players came very close to doing so. Unfortunately, no one succeeded in scoring a hole-in-one.

The event concluded with the presentation ceremony where Mr. Ziyad Al Zubair, Board Member of Dhofar Automotive, gave away trophies to the participating & winning teams.

The ceremony saw the players unwinding and cheering their

rivals after two days of intense competition. Accepting the rolling trophy on behalf of the Ras Al Hamra Golf Club, captain Ian Liversage said, “It was a lot of fun competing with some great players this year.

Our team is thankful to Dhofar Automotive for organising such a successful event along with the support from OGC. I am extremely proud of my team’s effort and I look forward to bringing back the trophy to Ras Al Hamra next year!”

FUTSAL

SQSC team retain pennant MUSCAT: The Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex (SQSC) Department team retained the title at the five-a-side football tournament organised for the staff of the Ministry of Sports Affairs, Oman Olympic Committee and sports federations. In an exciting final played at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, the SQSC team defeated Directorate General of Sports Welfare and Development 4-2 to clinch the title.

Directorate General of Financial and Administrative Affairs team won the third place. Sheikh Saad bin Mohammed Al Mardouf Al Saadi, Minister of Sports Affairs, presided over the final and handed over the trophies and medals. - ONA

WINNERS: The Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex team pose for a group photo. – ONA

OMAN CRICKET LEAGUE

ISWK, ISM eves notch wins; one tied match in Junior Division MUSCAT: Indian School Wadi Kabir (ISWK) and Indian School Muscat (ISM) opened their campaign in the Oman Cricket Women’s Division League with good wins at the Ministry of Sports Affairs ground (Turf 2) in Al Amerat.

ISWK defeated Pakistan School Muscat (PSM) by 25 runs. Batting first ISWK scored 162 for 2 in 20 overs with Akshadha Gunasekar (47 not out) top scoring. In response, PSM could managed only 138 for 5 in 20 overs despite Fiza Javed scoring an unbeaten 43. Akshadha claimed two wickets to restrict PSM. Brief scores: ISWK 162 for 2 in 20 overs (Akshadha Gunasekar 47 not out) beat PSM 138 for 5 in 20 overs (Fiza Javed 43 not out, Akshadha 2 for 21). Points: ISWK 2; PSM 0

Extras galore In another women’s match at the same venue, ISM defeated BOC by 49 runs, which saw Mr. Extras topping the chart. Batting first, ISM put on 155 for 2 in 20 overs. In response, BOC were all out for 106 in 18.1 overs. Shradha Nabira claimed 3 wickets for ISM. to enable their win. BOC contributed 137 extras to ISM’s total, while ISM too boosted BOC’s total with 94 extras.

Brief scores: ISM 155 for 2 in 20 overs (Extras 137) beat BOC 106 all out in 20 overs (Extras 94, Shradha Nabira 3 for 7). Points: ISM 3 (BP); BOC 0

MCCC A win In a boys Under-13 B Junior Divi-

CHEERFUL BUNCH: Indian School Wadi Kabir eves after their win over Pakistan School Muscat.

sion League match, MCCC A beat Indian School Al Seeb (ISAS) by 33 runs at the Municipality 4 ground.

Batting first, MCCC A put on 190 for 4 in 20 overs. Rahul Manohar top scored with 54. In response, ISAS managed 157 for 8 in 20 overs with Aditya S.M(36) top scoring.

runs at the Municipality 2 ground.

Batting first, SLSM put on 136 for 6 in 20 overs.

Udantha Palihawadana top scored with 53. In response, PSM were bowled out for 123 in 19.5 overs. Udantha claimed 3 scalps to enable the narrow win for SLSM.

top scored with 46. In reply, ISG scored 110 for 7 in 20 overs. Salman Mohamed contributed 43 runs.

Brief scores: MCCC A 190 for 4 in 20 overs (Rahul Manohar 54) beat ISAS 157 for 8 in 20 overs (Aditya SM 36, Saami Khan 2 for 17). Points: ISAS 0; MCCC A 2

Brief scores: SLSM 136 for 6 in 20 overs (Udantha Palihawadana 53, Abdullah Raheel 2 for 21) beat PSM 123 all out in 19.5 overs (Udantha 3 for 9). Points: PSM 0; SLSM 2

Match tied ISWK ‘B’ and Indian School Nizwa (ISN) played out a tied Under-13 B match at the Municipality 2 ground.

Batting first, ISWK B put on 106 for 9 in 17.5 overs and in reply ISN scored the same in 17.5 overs for the loss of all 10 wickets.

PSM U-16 lose In a Under-16 match, Sri Lankan School Muscat (SLSM) beat Pakistan School Muscat (PSM) by 13

Win for ISWK In another Under-16 match, ISWK beat ISG by 22 runs at Municipality 1 ground. Batting first, ISWK put on 132 for 6 in 20 overs. Jeel Tanna

Brief scores: ISWK 132 for 6 in 20 overs (Jeel Tanna 43, Shrey Sanjeev 3 for 23) beat ISG 110 for 7 in 20 overs (Salman Mohamed 43, Vishnu 3 for 15). Points ISWK 2; ISG 0

Brief scores: ISWK B 106 for 9 in 17.5

MCCC STARS: Saami Kabir Khan, Arhaan Ranjan, Arjun Dhiman, Rahul Nayak. – Supplied photos overs (Anudeep Anoop 27, Bilal Shaju 3 for 9) tie with ISN 106 all out in 17.5 overs (Karthik Visvam 32). Points: ISWK B 1; ISN 1

SLSM win In a Under-13 match, Sri Lankan School Muscat (SLSM) beat Nizwa Cricket Academy (NCA) by 136 runs at the Municipality 1 ground.

After SLSM put on 193 for 2 in 20 overs, NCA found the going tough and could score only 93 for 8 in 20 overs.

Devin Wijeyananda and Talha Khalid batted well for SLSM scoring 107 not out and 58 respectively.

Talha Khalid also claimed three wickets to help SLSM gain a bonus point.

Brief scores: SLSM 193 for 2 in 20 overs (Devin Wijeyananda 107 no) beat NCA 93 for 8 in 20 overs (Talha Khalid 3 for 7).

Points: NCA 0; SLSM 3 (BP).

Easy for ISWK A Another U-13 match saw, PSM A lose to ISWK A by 56 runs at the Municipality 3 ground.(U-13) Batting first, ISWK A put on 179 for 3 in 20 overs and later bowled out PSM A for 123 in 18.4 overs.

Swastik claimed 5 wickets for ISWK to enable the bonus point win.

Brief scores: ISWK 179 for 3 in 20 overs (Swastik Sundara 52) beat PSM 123 all out in 18.4 overs (Abdullah Ifthikar 40, Swastik 5 for 22). Points: PSM A 0; ISWK A 3 (BP).

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W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M T U E S DAY, O C T O B E R 1 8 , 2 0 1 6

SECTION

CONNEC T H E D A I LY G U I D E

RENT

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VACANCY

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CARGO

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T U E S D AY, O C T O B E R 1 8 , 2 0 1 6 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

DAILY GUIDE FOR RENT

*Tourist visa arranged

F

O R R E N T

* Flat of 2 BHK in Al Azaiba near the sea RO.300 * Villa of 4 BHK in Al Hail North with sea view RO.450 * Shops in Al Qurum same line of More & Café and Starbucks with different sizes 20 to 25 each SQM * Commercial 4 BHK flat in Al Ghobra 18 Nov street RO.650 * Brand new flat of 4 BHK, sitting area & dining area in Al Khuwair 33. RO.550 * Amazing & spacious 2 BHK flat with best view in Remal building Bowshar RO. 500

Contact - 91776665 Showroom, Offices & Apartments FOR RENT Spacious showroom & office space for rent at Al – Mabela . 176 m2 showroom area . Offices / shops . Spacious 1 & 2 bedroom apartment . Government water.

Contact - 97792004 / 93220482 FOR SALE

Workers Accommodation

* 6BR Villa in Al Ghobra Facing the beach for sale. * Commercial & Residential Land in Al khuwair for sale. * warehouse in Wadi Al kabir for sale.

available nearby Sohar Port

500 to 5000 workers can accommodate with all facilities *industrial Catering *Manpower Supply *Facility Management *Staff Accommodation *Event Management*Construction

FOR RENT Showroom & Labour camp in wadi Al kabir for rent. brand new building 1BHK/Basement/ Showroom & offices in Ruwi for rent

Contact +968 22092638 / 968 93031168 E-mail. arn14256@gmail.com / nitsohar@gmail.com, www.alistiqamah.net

Contact: 91155779 hrm_gh@live.com

Furnished rooms for rent for family 200 RO per month include water & electricity, Al Khuwair.

Contact: 99251975 Villa for rent in South Mabellah, 3 bedrooms, sitting room, family Lounge, kitchen, three Toilets Contact 92212212 between 10 AM to 5 PM 1000,00 m2 Industrial plot with compound wall & two room at Misfa I/A. Contact: 99342733 / 91118706 PDO approved prime mover and flat bed trailer available for long lease or rental preferably with direct company. Contact: 99427951 Room in Wadi Kabeer.

Contact: 99058744 2BHK in Wadi Kabeer.

Contact: 92144045 / 97799175 2 BHK M.B.D R.O 280/-.

Contact: 92144045 / 97799175 1,2 BHK Darsait. Contact: 92144045 / 97799175 Villa for rent, 4 bedrooms, large foreground, Al Ansab close to Bank Muscat, rent 600 RO/m.

Contact owner 99845251 2 Bed room centrally air conditioned flat in CBD near central bank. Contact: 24714625/ 91173997 / 93527328 2 Bedroom flat near Indian school Wadi Kabeer with A.C. Contact: 99322363 / 95453813 1 &2 BHK Ruwi & C.B.D. Contact: 99024730

Shop for rent SOUQ road Muttrah, near Oman house.

Contact: 99183525 / 24706045 1& 2 bed flats rent 250+ 350/available in Wadi Al Kabir (near Lulu) with split A/C, all maintenance, 24 hours watchman facilities, with security systems.

Contact: 99451168

Shop / office (rent 230/ 240/250)/ comm / Resi building (near Lulu) Wadi Al Kabir Friday market road.

Contact: 99451168 1 BHK in Ghubrah with AC & Water R.O 220/-. Contact : 92811110 Brand new deluxe 2BHK apartment with balcony & parking at Azaiba near Al Shawa tower.

Contact : 98294706

Flat for rent 2BHK split A/c near Kuwaiti Mosque in Wadi Kabir.

Contact: 97007934 / 92629232

3 BHK at Al Khuwair.

Contact: 99024730

Flat for rent 2BHK split A/c near Oman house in Muttrah.

Contact: 97007934 / 92629232

For rent flat in Darsait & Ruwi office CBD. Contact: 95345909 /92820734

2 bedroom flat – luxury fully furnished at Al Khuwair, 1 bedroom flat – luxury fully furnished at Al Khuwair for short or long term contract. Contact Atlas Real Estate & Rent a Car LLC. Contact 99436312 / 92888376 / 94617563, tel : 24834888 / 24833848

Deluxe, 2 BHK flat for rent in Wattaya. Contact: 98802343

2 BHK Azaiba north near Mosque Rehan. Contact: 99224748 / 99332297

2 BHK with split / AC in Azaiba, 18th November Street.

Contact: 96708000

2 BHK Mawaleh North Al Mawaleh North near Dubai store. Contact: 99224748 / 99332297

Flats for rent in Ghala, before palm tree R/A and next to Al Maha F/S Ghala, 2 bedrooms ++ RO 350 monthly, 1 bedroom ++ at RO 300 monthly. Contact Real Estate Services Co. : 91246444 / 91248444 / 92905432 / 24222345

3 BHK ground floor house for rent in Al Hail South.

Contact: 95047657 1 BHK near Medical Darsait Muttrah house R.O 180/-.

Contact: 95070201 For Rent studio type flats for rent R.O 160/- monthly near Oman house. Contact: 98075028 / 95501858 Flats and shop for rent in Ruwi, Honda road and Mumtaz area.

Contact: 97293708 / 92433127 / 97103695 Flats for rent near Indian School in Wadi Kabir. Contact 99777122

Villa in South Mawaleh: 8 bedrooms, 2 Majilis, 1 Family Hall, 9 toilets, 2 kitchens with Split AC, ample car park Contact: 96775026 / 99463626

3 bedrooms villa in Qurum near Ramee hotel & close to crown Plaza Hotel and beach. Contact Real Estate Services Co. : 91246444 / 91248444 / 92905432 / 24222345 Brand new 14 flats in Al Wadi Al Kabir, 11 flats of 1 bedroom RO 250, 3 flats of 2 bedrooms RO 300. Contact Real Estate Services Co. : 91246444 / 91248444 / 92905432 / 24222345 Villa for Rent behind mazoon mousqe 7 bedroom, living room, dining room . Contact 95150809 for 750 R.O nogotiable Studio Darsait R.O 160/- R.O. Contact: 92144045 / 97799175

2 BHK with split / AC in Bareeq Al Shatti. Contact: 96708000 6 Bedroom villas available for rent at North Al Hail, near Wave, complex with swimming pool and Gym. Contact: 99833747 2 BHK near Oman house behind Khimji H.O. Contact: 95865686 5 warehouse on Misfah, Bausher opposite to Oman cement factory, 2 ware house 845 sqm each, 3 ware house 425 sqm each.

Contact: 96041560 / 99322321 Mr. Prasanna

Furnished apartment for rent in Bowsher, 1 bedroom & living room.

Contact: 91153933 3 bedroom ground floor house for rent in South Al Hail behind Al Hail Hypermarket. Contact: 95047657 Villa for rent in Al Khoud , 6 rooms & hall. Contact: 91153933 Office space for rent (240sq. mtr, with partition) for rent in Bank in Melli Iran Building, MBD area, near Center point. Contact: 99011352 Flat for rent in Al Ghubrah, 2 rooms & hall. Contact: 91153933 Room in Azaiba.

Contact: 99555843 One room with bathroom in Bowsher for rent. Contact: 91153933 For rent villa in Bowsher 5 rooms & hall. Contact : 91153933 Arabian style house located in North Al Hail in the second line behind the commercial buildings of the SQ main street 1003 m2 land size and there’s permitted well & palm trees suitable to use for storage facility & accommodation for company workers, 2 streets across the house from front and back side.

Contact: 93366421

Flats for rent in Darsait, 3 bedrooms++ RO 350 monthly.

Contact Real Estate Services Co. : 91246444 / 91248444 / 92905432 / 24222345 2 BR apartments available for rent, close to Muscat Grand Mall, next to Diwan’s Office, South Ghubra.

Contact: 2456256 / 99833747 1 BHK near Oman house behind Khimji H.O. Contact: 95865686

MV SALE Mitsubishi Pajero 2007 & Mitsubishi L - 300 Bus / VAN -2007 & Mitsubishi 4 x 4 pick up -2009. All vehicles are available for inspection at our head office in MSQ & sale procedures are by submitting quotation only. Contact: 24400750 / 24400752 (During office hours) 2012 Model Mazda 6 car for sale 28,000 Kilometer expat driven Mulkya valid up to Aug 2017.

Contact: 99204808 Toyota Yaris for sale model 2013 manual gear single use present mileage 58,000 kms.

Contact 95894258 Dihatsu Terrios Trend 4WD, 2012 Registration, dealer service registration up to August 2017.

Contact No: 92812144

T U E S DAY, O C T O B E R 1 8 , 2 0 1 6

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DAILY GUIDE

Company for SALE at Wadi Al Kabir Manufacturing of Steel & Stainless Steel, & cast Aluminium products. Running company for sale. with all the machines and equipments also with 15 nos. of skilled workers.

Serious buyers can contact at 93132208 / 79065540

FOR SALE Twin Villa for sale in Azaiba near Sultan Centre. Each side has three floors, five bedroom plus maid room. Each room has it’s own bathroom and one extra toilet between dining and sitting room. The villas are now about 5 years old and very clean and well maintained. It has split A/C’s. OMR 215,000 each villa.

Telephone: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955 Industrial land in Rusail.4000 sqm.

Contact 99323957 / 95490842.

Shop for sale Honda road, Ruwi.

Contact: Tel: 24705105 GSM : 92877958 / 94289164 Cat 6 UTP cable (KUWES) 305M Roll AT R.O 33/- only & Network Cabinet 42 U 600x600 (Toten) at RO 160/- Only & 12 Core SM Outdoor armored (AKSH) at 450 baisa per meter only. Contact: Al Wassen Network Technology LLC. Contact: Tel: 24705105 GSM: 92877958 / 94289164 Email: alwassen@omantel.net.om Good Condition Sanyo washing machine, semi automatic, RO 25 for sale in MBD Contact; 99737812 RESTAURANT for sale in Ruwi.

Contact: 99378964 Juices, Ice cream parlour in Ruwi.

Ideal location. Contact: 92150455 Muscat Hills 4 Bedroom CORNER Apartment+ 4 Bathrooms+ 2 parking lots with classy flooring & spot lights with high quality finish in luxury development under construction for Sale for RO 180000. Not negotiable. Expected completion in June 2017. Visa available. Contact 95865457, only serious buyers.

REQUIRED ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS Looking for Electrical Labour Contractors BUILDING MATERIAL SHOP FOR SALEWell-furnished running building material-electrical shop (4 shutter / 200sqm) in Al- Khoudh- 6, for immediate sale- shop with stock or stock only. Serious buyers may please Contact: 94320909 Land for sale in the village of Bimmah on the coastal road Qurayat/ Sur with a space of 604 square meters for an attractive price.

Contact 92905222

for awarding ongoing building service job.

ACC. AVAILABLE Room near Hamriya roundabout for Executive bachelor. Contact: 93590332 / 97443614 Single room with separate, bathroom for non cooking bachelor (Rex Road). Contact: 98209132

Fishing nets for sale bottom set gill net, 27 ply & 21 ply net with 12 mm singer rope -100 mtr =120 nos (1350 to 1400 mesh length x 50 mesh height, float 3) one time used. Contact: 99465219 / 93314027

Furnished room in ruwi and azaiba for rent for executive bachelors. Gsm 99058344

Gill net 27 ply x 5.5 inch x12 mm yellow rope - 183 mtr = 92 nos (1000 mesh length x 100 mesh height, float 6) One time used.

Contact: 99465219 / 93314027

Furnished room at OMR 150/- / with W& E near Kamat restaurant Al Khuwair. Contact: 92261906

New bundle green gill net 21 ply x 5.5 inch = 80 net (1000 mesh length x 12 mesh height).

Contact: 99465219/ 93314027

Furnished room for Indian family or Executive bachelor, near Honda Road (Walja). Contact 99016546

Furnished room with attached bath room in Ruwi.

Contact 93223278 Independent rooms Qurum (PDO) service rood. Contact: 95529970

Heidelberg Sorm machine 52cm x 74cm. Contact: 99369880 / 92857355

Fully Delux furnished sharing flat for Indian Executive near Sheraton CBD. Contact 99219337

Tiles for sale ceramic tiles 30 x 30 for sale at half price 4000 sq.Mtr. Stock at al khuwair near lulu hypermarket.

Contact: 99294591

A big room available near Hamriya round about for Muslim couple / small family / Executive bachelor rent 125/- per month including W+E. Contact: 99495131

Furnished room for Indian bachelor near Al Falaj hotel Ruwi and lady in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 96202458.

Single room with A/C and attached bathroom, sharing kitchen for executive bachelor/couple near Saud Bahwan Hill view Tower wadikabir and Opp: Shell filling station. Contact 99024362, 93166353

AVAILABLE Bobcat available for rent.

Contact 97623299 Filling material available at Mabela. Please Contact: 99344979 / 99344279 Party & Wedding equipment rentals. Full line, from Tables, Linen & Skirting, Chairs & Chair covers, Cutlery, Crockery, Glassware, Chafing Dishes, Ice Sculptures, to Large Sound Systems and spectacular lighting. Call Andrea 9606 2222 for Catering and Croyden 9623 5555 for Sound & Light. ww.tunesoman.com, E-mail: info@tunesoman.com

Contact 99878180 / 93892793

FOR HIRE Planning Estimation Engineer B.Tech Civil with 3 years experience driving license NOC. Contact: 98240765 New freezer vans 1 ton & 3 ton for rent on daily/ monthly or yearly basis. interested parties please call / reply for further information to jobsnow2015@yahoo.com, Gsm : 99597129 – ktt & co llc ; jibroo

BUYING Buying cars for cash.

Contact 90202090

SITUATION WANTGOOD NEWS Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis massage, steam bath, obesity, spondylitis, Ideal Care Ayurvedic clinic, 18th November Street Al Ghubra (North). Contact: 99639695 / 97397320 Ayurvedic treatments & massage – Ayurvedic Clinic Al Khuwair.

Contact 97263637 / 93309131 Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam). Contact 24475280 / 95371664 / 92504980 www.siddhayur.com Car care, care for your car stop worrying about your car. Enjoy your vacation peacefully. Here is a solution for safe parking and cleaning your car when your car when you are away on vacation. Taking very good care of your car, trust us. #96964767

LOST Abid Javed has lost Pakistani Passport No. AT 0949483. Finder please handover to ROP

CHANGE OF NAME I Darrell Sheverine DSouza (holder of Indian passport No. M 7000454) Son of / Daughter of DSouza Victor Sheverine having permanent residence in 258 Mangal Wadi Juhu Mumbai 49 (complete postal address in India) and presently residing in Al Khuwair Muscat P.O Box 762, PC 114 Sultanate of Oman (complete postal address in Oman) intend to change my name from Darrell Sheverine Dsouza (old name) to Darrell De Souza ( new name) for all practical purpose.

Any objection towards my name change may please be communicated to Embassy of India, Muscat, diplomatic Quarters, Al Khuwair, P. Box No. 1727 Postal Code 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman.

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T U E S D AY, O C T O B E R 1 8 , 2 0 1 6 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT URGENT REQUIREMENT

Sales Representative - Male In Sama Real Estate Company 1. Graduate with minimum 2 years experience in Real Estate business.

2. Good communication skills with the clients 3. NOC and driving license are must.

Reputed mineral water company required the following HEAVY/LIGHT DUTY DRIVERS VAN SALESMAN with Omani driving license

SALES SUPERVISOR/SALES CO ORDINATOR with Omani driving license HELPERS Experience 3 to5 years

Contact - 90372638

Send CV and current picture with ref no: 0709 Email: jobs@sgoman.net

Wanted following staff for an Indian house in Muscat.

ACCOUNTS

1. House cook with experience 2. House helper / care taker for elderly man.

3. House Driver with valid driving license and experience.

Required Accountant with minimum 5 years experience in construction field of accounts and who can independently handle. Oman experience will be plus point with release letter. Apply with bio data to Email: tec_oman@hotmail.com .

Contact: 99339661 Required Senior Accountant with 3 to 4 years experience for a reputed industrial group. Preference will be given to candidates experience in manufacturing filed of accounts and who can independently handle up to finalization.

Apply with CV to Email: hilaltrd@omantel.net.om or fax 24128111 Accountant 2-3 years experience. Candidate should be Indian, English speakers. NOC is a must.

Email: mohammad.jwabreh@ bearingcitysc.com.

Fax: 24509312

BEAUTY Female Beautician required.

Contact: 94050001 Urgently required a Gulf experienced Beautician (Lady) Contact: 99619409

Please fax your CV to 24152277 or email to omanofficemanager@gmail.com or call at 99318929

Wanted Female Gynaecologist , Female GP and One Female Dental Assist and Female Lab Technician, Asst Pharmacist.

Sama Group LLC OPERATION MANAGER - Male 1. Minimum 3years managerial experience 2. Capability of business expansion, able to handle the clinics issues 3. Pet lover / no fear from pets 4. NOC and driving license are must.

Email: jobs@sgoman.net

REQUIRED AN AUDITOR With 6 years of experience.

The candidates should be a commerce graduate experienced in auditing.

Interested candidates may mail their CV’s to:

auditbureausll@yahoo.com

WANTED AUDIT PARTNER An Omani Audit firm is seeking Audit Partner to join the firm.

Interested Chartered Accountants are requested to send their C.V to

A Well known private school is in need of English Teachers for Muscat. Contact: 98462019 Email: jobsnelite@gmail.com A reputed Omani law firm requires advocates and legal consultants with good experience in law, 10 years at least and fluent English.

Send your resume on the Email: advocateoman2@gmail.com

ENG./TECHNICIAN

MEDICAL

Urgent requirement for building & roads construction company Civil Engineer 5 yrs exp Oman Fore man 5 yrs exp in Oman, Accountant 3 yrs exp., tally is advantage. Contact: 71100641 / 71100643

Required licensed GP doctor, lab Technician, Pharmacist and Asst Pharmacist for a clinic in Salalah.

Contact: 93129219 & send CV to: clinicrecruitment2015@gmail.com

Wanted for immediate appointment at Salalah, Oman : Procurement and Trading/Sales Engineer, Electrical Engineer (3) Civil Engineer. Apply soon to vmwilly@yahoo.co.in / hr_oman1@yahoo.com Required Electrical Engineer bachelor degree in Electrical Engineering. Should have 5- 10 years in Oman experience in primary substations. Interested candidates send resume to hr@aljood-oman.com

IT An IT company which develops websites and mobile apps, wanted a Business coordinator and Secretary with experience in media sales coordination and social media. Email CV to: hr@cityvago.com

MISCELLANEOUS

Required Indian candidate more 10 yrs experiences with attested Degree: 1 Civil Engineer.

2QS Engineer. 3 Purchase officer.

Email: joboman2017@gmail.com

SALES / MARKETING Urgent requirement Sales representatives in FEMCO LLC Eco friendly products. Graduate with minimum 2 years experience driving license is a must. Sent CV to: info@femcooman.com Required salesman, Tailor, Barber.

Contact: 96964767 Wanted Sales man logistics experienced sales person with D/L in freight forwarding, clearing, shipping, etc. Contact: 94007259 Email: smylackal@albadrigroup.com Valid license operator – Excavator, Shovel, JCB etc looking for a job. Contact: 99107699 / +919553288025 Required well experienced dynamic candidate in Real Estate Evaluation Field beside Building Management Techniques. Contact 91246444, rescooman@gmail.com

Required sales and marketing executive for a 4-star hotel in muscat. candidate with excellent communication skills and having 3+ years experience need apply. driving license will be an advantage. email: hoteljobsmuscat@gmail.com

ENG./TECHNICIAN We need MEP Supervisor for supervising HVAC & plumber work with min of 4 yrs experience and good English comm. skills.

Contact: 99454922, Email: humaid@brighteraoman.com

Indian male age 26, Accountant one year experience in accounts looking for suitable job. Contact Email: Anishkhan991867@gmail.

Com Mobile: +968 9565 9415

IT Savvy digital Media Sales Executive for leading website & mobile app Development Company. Those with experience and own car preferred. Attractive terms.

Email latest CV with embedded photo to: jobs@interacoman.com

DRIVER

EDUCATION

Indian male, B.Com, MBA in Finance, 4 yrs in Larsen & Tourbo, 26 yrs in Oman, English/ Arabic speaking with driving license. NOC available. Contact 95588565

Send CV and current picture with ref no:0809

Urgently required for a chain of restaurants” experienced drivers motor cycle for food delivery” with valid oman driving licence. attractive salary offered + commission on sales. mobile # 97677170, MAIL: md@royalgroupoman.com

A full time living house maid required for an Indian family in Ghubra. Contact: 97335255

Finance Manager 22 years experienced Chartered Accountant and cost & management accountant looking for a suitable change.

Contact: 99884291 / 99741875 / 24601935

(for a reputed chain clinics)

Required cook for Omani family accommodation will be provided.

Contact: 99350946

House maid required urgently for a Keralite family in AZAIBA. Contact 9675 8982

CPA 13 years experience (10 years in Oman) as Finance Manager, Chief Accountant, Senior Accountant, Cost Accountant & Internal Auditor, local transfer available.

Contact: 97220505

Urgent Requirement-

Required Catering Specialist with experience in the local market and administrative skills.

Contact 97234565

DOMESTIC HELP

Accountant 13 years experience looking for suitable job full time/ part time. Contact: 95571165

Contact # 91262604, Email ID : chillapalli76@gmail.com

E-mail : auditbureau2016@gmail.com

Wanted Driver for heavy (sewage vehicle) and light vehicle with valid Oman driving license.

Contact: 97991654 / 97991652 Kindly send CV at Email: construction@remasalseeb.com / remaschandran2020@gmail.com

ACCOUNTS

(From India or Pilipino ). With or without MOH License and Data Flow for Al Saadi Specilised Medical Centre, Musanna.

CATERING

Wanted Driver.

Contact: 97165972

SITUATION WANTED

Urgent required : Store labors.

Candidate should be Indian, English speakers. NOC is a must.

Email: mohammad.jwabreh @bearingcitysc.com, Fax: 24509312

Postgraduate Gynaecologist & GP with prometric dataflow required for Polyclinic Muscat. Attractive package. Kindly send your documents on dsm.reqruitment@gmail.com Gynecologist, G.P, Staff Nurse, Lab technician, receptionist (Philippine) . Contact: 94562008 Email: halamedicalgroup@gmail.com Fusion Medicare Polyclinic, Muscat wants GP, staff Nurse holding MOH license & Receptionist (Omani) Contact 97698004 email: medicare@fusionlogicoman.com

GP, Pediatrician, Gynecologist, General Surgeon, Orthopaedician, Dentist, Pharmacist, urgently need to work in a polyclinic in Sur. candidates with MOH license preferred. Contact: 00968 - 24446456, 00968-91164581 (Sunday to Thursday 8.30 AM to 9 PM)

SIT. WANTED ACCOUNTS 12 Yrs Exp Accountant worked in Construction, Cont & Trad Cos. worked on Oracle / Orion / Tally/ Epromis, ERP s/w with Valid D/L – (NOC/Release available).

Contact 92194086 Sr. Accountant B.Com, M.B.A Indian seeks suitable placement NOC available. Mob No.93363435 Pakistani male, MBA finance, 10 years experience accounting, finance, business development, Administration & banking proficient in quick book & Microsoft suite, valid Oman driving license.

Contact: 94162125

Wanted Nurse for a dental centre, Al Mawale South. Interested candidate may contact 99759279 or send mail: drasyanaseem@gmail. com

12ys Oman exp chief/senior accountant seeks job immediately available with release/NOC and D/L available .contact: 97385562

Wanted female & Male Nurse with or without license (good salary, food & accommodation with other benefits. Contact 97700963, medicoport@gmail.com

25 years, male from India with 3 years experience present in Oman and with release seeks job in HR, ADMIN or PURCHASE any of it.

Contact +968 94574596.

Wanted female & Male Nurse with or without license (good salary, food & accommodation with other benefits. Contact 92989109, medicoport@gmail.com

Indian/MBA/male Chief Accountant 18Yrs Experience, MIS, C.Flow, Budgeting, ERP, Cost accounting &Liasing with auditors. NOC available.

Contact: 92254691/97826674 email: khader2305@gmail.com

SECRETARIAL / OFFICE MEDICAL

Indian Salesman indoor, knowledge in English & Arabic.

Contact: 93326636

Wanted Office clerk having two years experience. Contact: 92891888

SKILLED LABOUR Required Experienced Auto Electrician and Automobile Mechanic for a reputed service station.

Contact : 91232638 hashim@ramainvestment.com

Indian female MBA, 3 years experience seeking suitable job.

Contact: 99257214 Indian male 24 yrs, MBA Graduate dual specialization (finance and marketing) & B.Com financé and taxation on visit visa immediately available. Contact: 99359904 Email: skadhilmog@gmail.com

Accountant Sri Lankan National Inter CA 3 yrs exp in finance ready to join immediately.

Contact: 79049355 Email: ahamedfiham777@gmail.com SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, WITH Oman D/L & 9 yrs experience, 8 yrs Oman & 1 yr India in manufacturing, trading & contracting Cos, independently handling all accounting, finance, banking, L/C, import, export & finalization seeks placement, srjob12@gmail.com Accountant Indian female B.Com, tally 5 years experience 2 years in Oman. Contact: 99139188

Sir Lankan Chartered Accountant (female) Graduate in B.Com (Sp) having 2 years visa. Work experience in accounting & banking sectors, looking for an suitable position in Muscat.

Contact: 96356974 / 97488363 Email: hansikamail@yahoo.com Indian male 25 yrs, Graduate in commerce, overall 5 yrs exp in accounts/ finance field. On visit visa. Immediately available.

Contact 92836216 / muhammad.tausif623@gmail.com Qualified and experienced MBA post graduate with proven work exposure in Middle East & India, having more than 5.5 years of rich experience in accounts , project coordination and administration in (3.5 years UAE experience) oil and gas projects is currently looking for suitable job. Contact 93953613, Email-allen.mathew83@gmail.com Certified Public Accountant (Filipino, Male, 27-yrs-old) with four years experience, seeking suitable placement in accounting/audit, currently on visit. Contact; 94959606, email: czesar.42@gmail.com 12 Yrs Exp Accountant worked in Construction, Cont & Trad Cos. with Valid D/L – (NOC/Release available).

Contact 92194086 7 Years experience as Financial Analyst, MBA in finance. Responsibilities- research contributor, financial statement analysis, generating MIS & efficiency report, managing TAT, business & clients.

On visit visa in Muscat.

Contact 90191628 / 96175780

Accountant Assistant B.Com Graduate with 2 yrs experience in Accounting. Contact: 94736742

Accountant Indian female, 2 years experience up to finalization in tally, B.Com Graduate, having valid D/L. Contact: 95373751

Indian Accountant having M.Com with 7 years of experience up to finalization ready to joint immediate, Tally Peachtree, focus.

Contact: 91651695 Email: danishpa2005@gmail.com

Indian ( M) MBA (f) more than 6 years of experience in accounts, proficiency in various A/C Software SAP (F1/CO) seeking for suitable placement. Contact: 95920740, mail: abdulhameed1527@gmail.com

Situation wanted for Accountant having experience in the field of accounts up to finalization, having 11years experience in Oman and 14 years in India driving license and NOC available. Contact: 92981308 / 93861806 Email: sonykarickal2008@gmail.com

Indian female 23 yrs MBA, finance and HR, currently on visit looking for suitable job. Contact: 93305002 / 99048224 Email: manjusharavindren@gmail.com

Indian Senior Accountant, B com, Having 8 years of experience in Oman, up to finalization, Tally, SAP, Oman D/L, Release available, Seeks suitable placement.

Contact - 93484122 Young Indian male 7 years experience in Accounts & audit looking for immediate placement.

Contact: 90830255 Finance Manager, 17 + years gulf exp. in accounts, MIS, budgets, strategic planning, cost control, working capital management, seeks job pl call 95379211 e mail :- vijay.564@hotmail.com Indian female, 26 years,brought up in oman,M.COM(FINANCE) CA Foundation(CPT),CA INTER(DOING) presently on family visa seeking for immediate and suitable placement.

Contact -97174201/99663957 Email-anishasasi@gmail.com Qualified Cost Accounting, 33yrs experience, seeks senior position in FMCG diary manufacturing industries with release, ready to join immediately. Contact: 96078962 Accountant, 10 yrs experience, male tally, ERP, holding Oman driving license up to finalization accounts handling.

Contact 79002093 MBA Finance 20 yrs of MNC (MEP) experience thorough knowledge in preparation of financials, budgeting, fore casting, audit, trade finances, cash flows, guarantees, income tax, project (cost control) & ERP implementation with NOC seeks suitable placement. Contact 96280551 Email: ramu2587@hotmail.com Male doing ACCA finals 5 years experience finance audit one and half years experience in shopping mall accounting, good knowledge in tally ERP 9, MS Office seeking good position in accounts/audit.

NOC available Indian.

Contact 92123484 Accountant available with NOC, 7 years experience in Oman.

Ready to join immediately.

Contact 98263394

Indian female 28 yrs B.Com 4 yrs experience in MNC’s currently in Muscat seeking suitable placement in Finance / Admin.

Contact :94743790 Indian, Kerala Male B.COM & B.PE, Currently on Visit Visa. Looking for a suitable job in Accounts, Store Keeper, Sales etc. Ready to join as early as possible. Contact 96988923 email:- sajith3969@gmail.com Indian male 34 Yrs, Dual MBA Finance and marketing with IT skills, 7+ yrs of experience, Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 94879615, Emailsajan_chacko1981@yahoo.com Indian male 34 Yrs, Dual MBA Finance and marketing with IT skills, 7+ yrs of experience, Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 94879615, Emailsajan_chacko1981@yahoo.com 8 yrs exp. in Admin & Accounts (3 yrs in Oman), MBA, exp. in Tally ERP 9, Indian (F) seeks placement.

Contact 97243806 Accountant B.com Indian male 12 yrs exp seeks suitable job.NOC available . Contact : 91212471 Email: rennyj6@gmail.com ACCA member with 6 yrs of experience in Oman looking for a suitable job in finance.

Contact 99284193 Sudanese Accountant, Alexandria University Graduate bachelor of commerce Diploma of Marketing professional photographer worked in PR and social media for 2 years looking for a job in public relations media, social media or marketing.Contact: 96976240 Indian female 26 yrs, MBA finance 2 yrs exp with MNC. Email: rilooozmali@gmail.com.

Contact : 90551366.

Indian (M), 31 yrs, M Com 9 yrs experience in Oman, looking for Manager or Executive position in Fin & Accounts, NOC Available.

Contact 968 96166178/ +919768537435: mohammednajeem@yahoo.com Accountant 8 Years Experience with D/L and NOC. Contact 97712084

T U E S DAY, O C T O B E R 1 8 , 2 0 1 6

D5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED An experienced Chartered Accountant

Male -FMCG DISTRIBUTION PROFESSIONAL ,MBA MARKETING ,10 years Managerial experience in GCC /OMAN looking for Divisional Manager position. NOC /DL available.

with over 25 years in varied industries, presently working with a reputed group in Muscat, looking out for a suitable change.

Contact -92405181

96491030 Sudanese, resident visa, long experience in Gulf (Imports/ exports/ marketing/ business development) Bilingual, wide commercial relations in & outside Oman.

Seeks suitable placement in reputed group or partner in existing project need development.

Contact - 94975429

SITUATION WANTED

With 14 years of Oman experience in Omanization, well familiar with Oman labor laws, employee relations / welfare, Liasion & Coordination, Strategic HR Planning, performance Appraisal & General Administration.

CONTACT: 90189412

Contact - 96501189

18+ years experience in Middle East & India. With release / NOC, seeking General Manager / Operations Managers jobs in Hospitality sector.

Lankan male, 25 yrs, B.Tech HND QS (Civil & MEP), AutoCAD with 5 yrs experience, looking for suitable placement.

BE (Electronics & Telecommunication), MBA (Marketing), Indian male, 30 yrs, 7 yrs experience in Oman in Sales, Marketing & Projects, looking for suitable placement, valid Oman D/L,

Contact - 968 99589495, Email : mct2016job@gmail.com

Contact 92032632, haseebmursaleen@gmail.com

NOC AVAILABLE Contact - 98518776

Hospitality professional Indian, currently working as General Manager in a leading Hotel in Muscat.

DRIVER Looking for job light driver.

Contact: 97688323

ACCOUNTS 28/male/MBA - finance/B.Com Accountant with 4 years of Dubai/ India experience looking for a suitable placement.

Contact 90187483 shobinkarikkan1987@gmail.com Part time Accountant, up to finalization, looking for job after 5 pm (location prefer – MSQ to AL Hail).

Contact: 90935099

ADMIN Omani, male, 26 yrs experience looking for job in reputed Companies as PR, having experience at airport / Emigration, Ministries/ Manpower with Oman D/L. Contact 95445779 HR senior professional with 10 yrs (7 yrs in Dubai& Qatar) comprehensive exp in leading HR function ( recruitment, training, performance mangt system, GCC Law, operations, benefits administration and strategy) available to join immediately.

Contact: 0097455375005(Qatar) Email: maliksha@gmail.com Young Indian male B.Sc, with NOC & valid Omani driving license & 15 years experience in GCC into HR & Admin, well versed with MS Office / Payroll seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 90622264 Omani (M) Diploma in (Business Management) with 7 years experienced HR/ Admin / Purchase is looking for a suitable position in Oman. Contact: 99460164

ARCH./ INTERIOR DEC. British Citizen Senior Architect, Managing Director, Chief Architect 14 years experience, V Ray 3D, AutoCAD BOQ, master degree on architectural design. Contact: 92480035 Urban/Town Planner with 6 yrs of Experience in Oman, Saudia, and Sudan. Looking for a good opportunity. TEL: 98016799 Email: mod.omer@live.com Architect Engineer seeking for suitable job, 8 years experience.

GSM : 96075000, Email : haytham_201046@yahoo.com Interior Decoration Drafting 2D/ 3D ,freelance / parttime. PH: 9018 9070 Email: mkoman@gmail.com Sudanese male Architect with 8 years of experience in design & and project management B.Sc, Master of Art in Architect and PMP holder. Contact: 93522498 / 93946515 Email: hesham.siddiq@gmail.com Tunisian female Architect and interior designer, 8 y exp, working with AutoCAD, 3D masc. Photoshop, language Arabic, English French.

Contact: 95092156/ 96732735 Architectural Draughts man (4 years experience), seeking job Contact: 91141879 Architecture Graduate in urban planning & architecture Indian male, 6 months experience in architecture & interior design NOC available. Contact: 96926903 Email: nikcherian93@gmail.com

Experienced HR – Executive 18 years experienced in IT & manufacturing industry presently working in well reputed manufacturing industry looking out for new opportunity. Contact: 91374217

Interior Architect, 2 years experience AutoCAD, 3D, Photoshop, shop drawing. Contact: 98245746

Male 25 BBA, Admin officer 6 years experience in administration, accounts, Procurement, HR. Contact 95526871

Bangladeshi male 25, seeking for driver job with Oman valid license L/V. Contact: 93468454

29 years male Indian BBA Graduate with 6 years of experience HR/ Admin looking suitable placement visit visa, valid Oman license.

Contact: 91361336 Young Omani male have experience 12 years as P.R.O, CLERK Helper Supervisor Admin Supervisor, H.R Manager have vocational M.B.A diploma in H.S.E, IT and P.D.O license, looking for H.R position or P.R.O part time or full time.

Contact: 95933288 Indian Female, MBA-HR having 8+ experience in Administration/ HR, Customer Support, Office Coordinator with good Computer skill, Now on Visit Visa, looking for suitable position. Contact 90196235

DRIVER

Light driver 7 yrs exp, expert in Arabic & English language.

Contact: 92262680 Bangladeshi, 5 years exp in distribution/loading with D/L speaks Arabic & Hindi. Contact: 95865971 Light driver exp 4 years know English, Arabic, Hindi.

Contact: 94928736 Driver with car available.

Contact: 98522914 Looking for job light driver 8 yrs in GCC country & speak Arabic good. Contact: 92806893 Looking for job light driver 2 yrs exp. Contact: 91659265 Driver with car. Contact: 95518612

Filipino HRD especialist / material controller supervisor with 18 yrs experience looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact: (+968) 98037142 / (+968) 92659817 Egyptian woman resident, considerable experience in the Administration and Secretarial Executive for company. Contact : 97221126

ARCH./ INTERIOR DEC. B. Arch Grad Indian female 24 yrs, highly skilled in designing looking for entry level architect positions currently Oman residence visa.

Contact : 95990255 Email: lubainank@gmail.com Architect Sudanese female 7 years experience design site work, interior design programs AutoCAD archicad.

Contact: 71190409 / 94078945

Light driver looking for job, 5 years exp in Oman. Contact: 94208089 Driver looking for job- Indian with car or without - contact 96953996 / 91432352 - Sohar preference.

Looking for job. Contact 95371235 Indian Driver light need job.

Contact: 96693613 Heavy duty 4 years experience valid D/L, Oman. Contact: 98571413 / 95464051 Contact: Asheer Mohammed 94173085 18 yrs exp driver seeks job.

Contact: 95541940 Driver job wanted.

Contact: 96393082 Female family driver.

Contact: 98044188

IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE WITH NOC HR & ADMINISTRATION PROFESSIONAL

Indian male, MBA Finance, B.Com & Computer Diploma looking for a suitable position Current position: Financial controller Experience : 15 years +

L.T.V driver experience 3 years looking job. Contact: 94986972 Light duty driver, 4 years experience looking for job.

Contact: 97941771 Heavy duty driver looking for job, PDO license holder.

Contact: 92942077 Pakistani male light vehicle driver one yr exp looking for job.

Contact: 94284645 Job wanted for driver 10 yrs experience in Oman Arabic & English. Contact: 92360040 Driver looking for job. Contact: 98143386 / 92820309 Driver looking for job.

Contact: 96187146 Looking for job exp having driving license. Contact: 97363138 Driver looking for job.

Contact: 95892363

DESIGNER/ DRAUGHTSMAN Tunisian girl looking for job in media field, has 8years experience in publishing contact 97816917 AUTOCAD D MAN, 3 yr DCE, ITIi, experience in arch 2d,3d ph : 99506977 Revit, Autocad D/man, expected salary 200 OMR. PH : 92279784 Free lance / part time autocad works / make boq 2d /3d arch , structural, shop drawings interior drawings. Contact 97103168 mkgroupoman@gmail.com AUTOCAD freelance / part time , ARCH,MEP, 2D,3D, shop drawing, Bill of QTY PH : 97103168, mkgroupoman@gmail.com Filipino Senior Revit/AutoCAD Draftsman with 20 years professional experience is looking for suitable job in Oman.

Please Contact: 96489798, (+974) 66653780.

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Civil Engineer 8 yrs Exp in consulting engineer with auto cad & D/L. Contact : 98484123 Civil Engineer 8 yrs Exp in building construction with auto cad & D/L. Contact : 93060770 MEP Coordinator, B. Tech. Mechanical, 36yrs Indian Male, 12yrs GCC experience, Oman D/L, NOC, immediate start, 97784946, sachkormat@live.com HVAC Engineer with 4 years Indian experience (Emerson), available on short visit. Contact: 95319135 Experienced Purchase Officer 8+ in construction & Engineering industries ready to join with NOC. Contact: 95423692 Work shop Incharge, well experience Automobile Engineer with Oman driving license responsible for work shop & transport, joint with local clearance 25 years experience. Contact: 93215759 Mechanical Engineer 27 yrs Indian male 4 yrs experience, certification ASNT, level 2, ASME 31.3 looking for suitable position. Contact: 98843671 Email: ifthikharahmedpo@hotmail.com Civil Engineer seeking job in Oman, 2 yrs experience in Pakistan with a consultant firm interested in consultant & contractor both. Contact: 968- 71152135 Email: omerraza102@gmail.com

Quantity Surveyor, Sri

Experienced IT Professional with over 20 years in Oman.

Can manage ERP systems, Hardware, Network, Wi-Fi and Biometric Devices.

NOC available.

Contact # 96654216

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Indian male 23 years, 1 year experience in tankage projects & process piping B.Tech in Mech, Engg.

Contact: 00968 71164978 Email: sushant297@gamil.com Indian male 26 years Mechanical Engineer with 2 yrs exp in Oman.

Looking for suitable placement.

Contact - 91328079

B.E Mechanical Engineer, age 24 with almost 1 year experience as Production Shift Engineer, has achieved training on HVAC Engineering design and has good hands on software like AutoCAD and HAP.Currently in Oman on a visit visa, looking for a suitable placement.Contact: 95065955 email: mjs.jazeb@gmail.com

Civil Engineer 8 years experience Structural buildings marine.

Available NOC release.

Contact 92451323.

Email: zubairali134@yahoo.com

B. Tech Mechanical HVAC site Engineer 4 years experience, currently on visit.

Contact – 92837696 / mdabdulather@gmail.com

Indian male Civil Engineer 1.6 yrs exp, having Omani D/L, looking for suitable position. NOC available. Contact – 92157694 / mohammedamair.bin@gmail.com

An Iraqi civil with more than 30 years experience in (Iraq and G.C.C) looking for a job, (N.O.C) available. Contact: 96561306 Email: iq.bgd.mnsr@gmail.com

Diploma in Mechanical Engg, 10 years exp in steel fabrication site work with valid Oman driving license. Contact: 94696192

Indian male, Mechanical Engineer having 1year experience, on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact: 97416564, Email:jovinmathias@gmail.com

Civil Engineer diploma, 4 yrs exp seeks suitable position in a reputed company. NOC available.

Contact 96789711 Indian male 8 years experience in electrical field with managerial, office, site supervision, fault debugging and exposure to electrical devices now in visiting visa. Contact: 90181566 Email: jittoandrewsnesto@gmail.com B.E Mechanical Engineer, Indian male 22 yrs, currently on visit Oman knowledge of AutoCAD, 2D & 3D looking for job in various mechanical fields.

Contact: 00968 92113987 Email: mohammedthanzeel@gmail.com B.E Civil Engineer Indian male 26 years with 8+ years Indian experience in building construction & consulting field with AutoCAD, NOC available, looking for suitable position. Contact: 94656970 Civil Engineer (BE), Indian male 25 yrs with 2+ yrs experienced, certified in AutoCAD, Staad Pro, Revit looking for suitable position NOC available.

Contact: 94973235 Email: merlinraj1710@gmail.com Indian male, 23 Yrs, B-Tech Electrical & Electronics, having 2 Year of Work experience - looking for suitable placement. Currently in Oman on Visit.

Contact: 96739500 Engineering Graduate having 5+ years of exp as Marketing coordinator in advertisement company and 6 months as security system service engineer.

Contact 79059197 Indian male 22, BE Civil Engineer with few site and internship experiences looking for a suitable position in your firm.

Got knowledge in (Primavera, Autocad, Staad pro). Currently In visit visa. 98327644 or shakib842@gmail.com Indian male, BE (CSE) graduate, completed CCNA R& S course, process associate with 9 months experience on visit visa available immediately. Contact: 91295939 Email: rahman_nadhu05@gmail.com Electrical & Electronic Engineer MEP (Electrical Drafting and designing) Oman Driving license2 years experience - Mob 99759466 ; shyjalpk@gmail.com B.Sc Civil Engineer: 5 years experience with having D/L. Contact: 93850440, Email: shahadat033@gmail.com Civil Engineer (Palestinian) 7 years experience looking for suitable placement specially at Muscat for Site or Consultant office with valid Oman driving license. Contact: 99174964

Civil Engineer 8 years experience in Oman as a project engineer for governmental & private projects.

Contact – 90164912 Indian male, Mechanical Engineer, diploma in MEP design, AutoCAD 2D, worked as Supervisor in Steel fabrication, worked as automobile sales officer, on visit visa, know driving, familiar with Oman routes. Contact: 99077031 Email: advith.21@gmail.com Diploma in Instrumentation and control, instrument technician 2 years experience male, 25, seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 96946408 Email: anfeeranfu4@gmail.com 16 years experience in maintenance field with reputed groups in Oman seeking suitable placement, NOC available. Contact: 98525859 Diploma in Civil Engineer, 3 years Sudanese National, 4 years experience in construction sites in Oman. Contact: 91183608 Indian male 27 years civil Engg (Project Coordinator) 6 years experience in Oman looking for suitable position NOC release available. Contact: 95071223 Electronics Engineer (BE) with 6 years experience in projects & maintenance of CCTV, Access control, fire alarm & PA systems, on visit. Contact: 99097485 Mechanical Engineer, Indian, 5 Years Experience, On visit visa looking for suitable placement.

Contact - 93042025 Indian male, B.E Mechanical with 2 years experience as Maintenance Engineer in Cochin Refinery and 1 year experience in Chevrolet seeking job. Contact : 97964862, Email :jossyabraham20@gmail.com Instrumentation Engineer 6 years experience security system, CCTV Alarm system, public address system. Contact: 79061126 Indian male, B.E Mechanical with 2 years experience as Maintenance Engineer in Cochin Refinery and 1 year experience in Chevrolet seeking job.

Ph number: 97964862, Email : jossyabraham20@gmail.com Indian male 26 years currently on visit visa completed Aircraft Maintenance Engineering having 2.5 years of experience in the field of customer service and hospitality industry with a passion for the job, looking for opportunity. Contact: 95775970 / 96784402 Email: sanoopck2255@gmail.com Pakistani male Diploma Civil Engineer 4yrs exp in Oman bulling & mega projects, valid license Oman. Contact: 98921022

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Indian male Electrical Engineer, having 6 years gulf experience in designing, assembling, commissioning execution etc having valid GCC license too looking for a suitable. Contact: 00968-98052942 Email: azamjeelani78@gmail.com Civil Engineer (B.Tech), Indian male 24 years with 1+years Indian experience,(Certified in Staad Pro/ Quantity Survey/ Auto Cad).Looking for a Suitable position. Available In Sultanate of Oman (Muscat) on Visit Visa. Contact: 92157694. E-mail: mohammedamair.bin@gmail.com B.E Aeronautical Engineer, Indian male, having 4 years experience in the field of Aeronautical, Mechanical design and production field, seeking for a suitable job and permanent replacement, currently in Oman on visit visa.

Contact: 00968 79062208 Email: amithmohanachary@gmail.com Sudanese Telecom Engineer (OSP & FITH) Manager four years experience in Oman with PMP Certificate. Contact: 93391008 Indian female 24 years, B. Tech and Diploma in Electronics & communication having 5 months bank experience looking for a suitable job presently on visit visa.

Contact: 90892393 / 92101035 Email: athirasuresh3@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer 14 years experience, 7 in Oman in water factories. Contact : 94488290 B.E Mech Engineer, Indian male, having 2 yrs experience in Mechanical Engg seeks suitable position. Contact: 98827544 Email: sibi.a.b.varghese@gmail.com Diploma in Civil, 15 years experience in G.C.C searching suitable placement. Contact: 90247456 Civil Eng Civil Draughtsman with diploma more than 8 yrs exp in Oman having valid D/L, NOC available. Contact: 96785348 / 93129804 Email: abbasimran786@hotmail.com 3 years Diploma Civil Associate Civil Engineering profession - land surveyor, experience total experience 5 years, 2 years in Pakistan, 3 years in Oman.

Contact: 94791214 / 98489700 Mechanical/ Piping Engineer (B.Tech.) on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact 94703350 mail: nadeembcoolboy@gmail.com Civil Engineer (B.Sc) with 5 years experienced (4.5 years in Oman) in construction & project management and seeking suitable job (NOC available). Contact: 99604563 Civil Engineer experience 5 years searching for job.

Contact: 97846260 Indian male ITI 16 yrs of experience, seeking for suitable electrical & BMS foreman. Security system. Release letter available.

Contact: 94067480 Electrical Engineer (B.E) with 2 years exp in Oman as site Engg / project coordinator. Oman D/L and NOC available. Contact: 97885944 / 95612833.

Email: syam346@gmail.com Network Engineer degree in computer science CCNA, MCSA with experience and NOC. Contact: 92346191

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T U E S D AY, O C T O B E R 1 8 , 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Mechanical Eng, 9 years experience MEP, 4 yrs in Oman.

Contact: 99487902 B.Tech (ECE), MCSE, CCNA, 25 Male, Indian, currently on visit visa, seeks suitable job.

Mob No: 94985002, Email: akhil.anuraj.1991@gmail.com Indian male Mechanical engineer presently working Oman will get NOC having 3 years experience hydraulic service engineer having valid Oman driving license.

Contact: 95936318 Mechanical Engineer (B.Tech) on visit visa looking for suitable job, has certificate of rewit MEP. Contact: 97923238 Email: vvikhil4@gmail.com Indian Electrical Engineer more than 16 years experience in MEP field in Oman seeks suitable placement holding valid Omani driving license release available.

Contact: 91268250 Civil Engineer (Indian male) 5 years experience in Oman valid Oman driving license looking for a suitable placement NOC available.

Contact: +968 95941909 Email: ginushrool@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer 27 yrs Indian male 4 yrs GCC experience looking for suitable positions in QA/ QC technical service.

Contact: 98843671 Email: ifthikharahmedpo@hotmail.com Civil Engineer (Indian male) 5 years experience in Oman with valid Omani driving license & NOC looking for suitable opportunity.

Contact: 93101283 Mechanical Engineer with 4yrs exp in maintenance, design, contracting firms with GCC D / license # 95712436 & tejab17@gmail.com B.Tech Civil Engineer 9 years experience in Oman, hotels, shopping malls high rise buildings, local NOC available. Contact: 00968- 97355400 Email: mianwaqas169@gmail.com Graduate Civil Engineer 20 yrs GCC experience with Omani D/L, seeking job NOC available.

Contact: 98621645 Email: imtiazcv@gmail.com Site Supervisor, Diploma in Civil Engg (cert attested) knows autocad revit, salary exp: 250 Ph : 92279784 Mechanical Engineer, Indian, Male, 30yrs. Experienced in Steam turbines and Thermal Power house seek employment.

Contact - +91 8130553668 or mohamedshah7@gmail.com

Electrical Engineer, 24 yrs, Indian Male, Fresher, Training Undertaken in Electrical Draughtsman, Fire Alarm, Fire Fighting and Industrial Automation. Contact: 94989767, Email: Junaiz987@gmail.com Indian male, Structural Engineer looking for job in structural design field. Having 6 years of experience in design field. Residing in Muscat.

Contact - 91176187 Email: syam036@gmail.com Civil Engineer with NOC, 7 years experience. Professional at site management, technical office, structure design work.

Contact 97983610 Electrical & Electronics Engr, knows autocad & revit.

PH: 93837973

EDUCATION/TRAINING Female B. Ed English teacher, 7 yrs exp seeking suitable placement. Contact: 99739415 / 92091528 An Indian Engineer is available for execution of pragmatic, need of the hour, worldwide relevant rare engg./ technical courses.

Contact 9109 6940, kpopragmatic@gmail.com Mathematics Lecturer , Indian Female, M Sc Mathematics from a Prestigious University, B.Ed qualified, distinction holder with 6 yrs teaching experience in colleges.

Contact : 91360147.

Indian female 24. Masters in Computer science engineering, seeking job in colleges, schools and institutes. Having in good skill in teaching and advanced technologies. Contact : 93356858 Email id : annielino11@gmail.com

HOSPITALITY Qualified Graduate from New Zealand, seeking job in hospitality with five years experience from New Zealand & UAE with valid driving license. Contact: 90834121 Indian male BA & LLB IATA cargo having 10 years experience as lawyer in Indian, currently on visit visa seeking placement.

Contact: 99068790 Email: meltoma@gmail.com Indian male 31yrs old with hotel management degree, 03 yrs experience in F&B services at 5 star hotel Dubai, 05 yrs in American 06 star cruiseliner has butler. Has Oman driving license. Contact 99859150.

IT

Civil Engineer, young Indian having almost 2 years experience looking for a challenging position seeks suitable position in Oman/ GCC. Please contact 92718490, Email ID: uvais.pk82@gmail.com

Indian male, 27 years, bachelor in IT, having 5 years experience in PHP DEV., Networking, IT support, seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 98825722 Email: ajaybin.joy@gmail.com

Sr. Electrical Engineer with17+ yrs of exceptional exp in spear heading strategic planning and project management initiatives & executing various high rise residential & commercial building as well as roads and highway project with proficiency in installation, seeking a challenging position in a dynamic organization. Contact 96570891

Indian male B.Tech Computer Science 4 years experience (3 years GCC) in SQL server, database Administration seeking job NOC available. Contact: 97331947 Email: nmathew1988@yahoo.com

B.E Electronics & Communication 4 years experience in installation commissioning testing networking Administration, project coordination site experience maintenance. Contact: 92924555 Email: rahulchittoor@gmail.com Site Supervisor 3 years Diploma Civil Engineering 7 years experience in Oman driving license.

Contact: 00968- 98524276 Email: murtaza06249@gmail.com Building Engineer, Senior level 9 yrs experience, Projects management, Coordination, Quantities Surveying Engineer contracts, civil software’s & AutoCAD looking for senior level position, NOC available. Contact: 79097475 Email: a-shaqfa@hotmail.com Indian male 24 ,B.E ( E.C.E ) graduate with 3 years of experience in the fields of BMS and Low current systems and has good knowledge about Electronic Security Systems, currently working in Oman, NOC Available. Contact: 94737033/ mohdmuhafez45@gmail.com Construction Machinery repairs Engineer, 5 years, driving license, Contact - 94001961

Indian girl, 22- Science Graduate in IT with an exp. of few months in the related field seeks a suitable job in Muscat. Studied CCNA & Web design courses. Pursuing Masters in IT now. GSM: 94909075. Mail id: madhue009@gmail.com Female, master in mass communication, B.Ed, experience in media channel and teaching PH : 99362024 An IT Engineer with 1.5 years having skills in ASP. Net, C#, SQL on visit visa looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact: 968 90897242 IT Support Engineer, exp 3 years in Oman 3 and above in India, D/L & NOC. Contact: 93695268 / 91169659 Indian Male, MCA Graduate, 15 yrs exp in ERP, CSM Certified, seeking suitable role.NOC Available. Contact : GSM : 90189284 Email: meetlibran@gmail.com Indian male 4 years experience in IT as Programmer / Web Support/ CCNA/ Network on visit visa seeking placement. Contact 93069694 Email: mrabrar14@gmail.com Indian female M.Sc Computer Science seeking suitable placement in Muscat area.

Contact 98660672

IT

MEDICAL

IT Support Engineer, Exp 3 years in Oman 2 years in India.

Contact 94672759

Iraqi Dentist female, MOH license seeks suitable job in clinic in Muscat. Contact 97891219

Indian male 4 years experience in IT as Programmer / Web Support/ CCNA/ Network on visit visa seeking placement. Contact 93069694 Email: mrabrar14@gmail.com

E.N.T Specialist (Otolaryngologist), Yemeni-male, looking for job.

Mobile: 00201096542706 Email: aymanjalilorl@gmail.com

CFA level 1 cleared (pursuing level 2) MBA operations research, female, 5 yrs experience as Analyst, have a valid Oman driving license, looking for related openings.

Contact 95818892

Veterinary Doctor: Indian Female looking for a suitable placement.

Contact: 96906534 /99014885, Email: monishmajeed@gmail.com

SALES / MARKETING Multinational FMGC experienced, qualified Sri Lankan lady seeking employment in Muscat. Marketing, Brands, Sales, Communication.

Oman exp & DL available.

Contact: 98250829 Indian 11yrs exp Supervising marketing with visa D/L, looking related any field.

Contact: 98604960

Dr.Ayman Abduljalil Ali, E.N.T Specialist (Otolaryngologist), Yemeni-male, looking for job.

Mobile: 00201096542706, Email: aymanjalilorl@gmail.com

Young man Graduated in Media and Communication and having a diploma in public relations looking for a suitable job in advertising agencies & media, corporate offices in Oman. Contact: 95636799 Email: medoo-299@hotmail.com

Filipino male Medical / Sales representative with 3 yrs experience is looking for suitable job in Oman.

Contact: 92610394

Male, looking for sales & marketing job, Oman license holder.

Contact: 95642740, Email: shaijichakkara@gmail.com

Indian female Dentist looking for suitable placement, dataflow completed. Contact: 96410448 / 99606013

An experienced person in joinery / fit out looking for working partner job. NOC & local release is available. Contact: 90872012

LOGISTICS

SECRETARIAL & OFFICE

Experienced Indian Male seeking placement in “Stores & Logistics”.

Contact: 91927039

A confident & more than 7 years experienced bilingual secretary/ admin officer with NOC looking for the right opening.

Please contact 94742482

Indian male 1 yr exp in sales automotive (TBL) looking for best opportunity , NOC available.

Contact: 97793879 Email: shyampkn@gmail.com

Mobile & laptop Technician Indian male having 2 years experience in India, currently on visit visa looking for suitable placement in Oman.

Contact: 71018270 / 92365310 / Email: shibinscaria1@gmail.com Indian B.Tech 5+ years experience in IT as java programmer / application support seeking placement.

Contact: 92547191 Email: smerin@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Indian female, 25 yrs, Msc Biotechnology, looking for suitable job. Contact 92619048 email: anusreeg1991@gmail.com Indian Male, 25 years old, born and brought up in Oman B.COM(Finance),MBA(Marketing) with Valid Omani Driving License seeking suitable placement.

Contact 94170219/99621400 Email:mahimmatha2016@gmail.com 21, Indian female B.com graduate on family visa looking for immediate and suitable placement. Holds valid Omani Driver’s license.

Contact: 97208869 Indian male age 47, 15 years exp in store in charge in GCC, seeks suitable job. Contact: 90198237 9 year experienced industrial painter and sand blaster with Oman driving licence. NOC available.

Seeks suitable placement.

Contact ZakeerHussain 96681934.

BS in Electrical Engineering, Experience: 5 years(Power Plants).

Contact: 92475206 Email: zahaibzafar007@gmail.com B.Com,IICL Certified Container Inspector(No.150850),Visit Visa, Six months experience, need placement. Phone 90880935,99023279, Email solexyesudas@gmail.com.

Sudanese male bachelor geology and mining with 3 years experience in MUD logging and training in soil investigation. Contact 92956848 Indian male, 28, post graduate, 6+ yrs exp in Oman in sales (back office) & credit control with valid Oman D/L looking for suitable lacements. NOC available.

Contact: 92066 523

MANAGER / SUPERVISOR Indian male MBA 14 yrs experience in business development seeking managerial roles driving license, NOC available. Contact: 93956234 Purchase Manager (BE + MBA) having 13 yrs experience is available immediately with NOC. Contact at +968 97886616 or emailguptaashish1978@gmail.com General Manager IRAQI who is able to motivate a sales force and focus it on success. Adept at administrative organization utilizing talent and resource and meeting or exceeding all sales goals Experience 13 Years Inside- outside Oman, following activities:(construction – real estate - fit out - pipe lain - Infrastructure) Contact: - Oman 71146111

MEDICAL Indian female Nurse 9 yrs experience / Gulf experience prometric 70% & dataflow completed looking for suitable job in Muscat.

Contact : 96739298 Indian male Nurse 3 years experienced prometric dataflow completed, currently on visit visa wanted suitable placement.

Contact: 95314727

Indian female, 25 yrs, Msc Biotechnology, looking for suitable job Contact 92619048 email: anusreeg1991@gmail.com Lady Secretary / Sales Co-coordinator 12 years experience in Oman in reputed companies, seek immediate Employment.

Contact 95244761 Looking for part time job Secretarial / Data Entry / Documentation available every day after 5:00 pm Friday / Saturday full day area preferred Ruwi/ CBD/ MBD / Al Khuwair. Contact: 90414827

SKILLED LABOUR Search job for mobile repairing, experience 2 years.

Contact: 94950300

SALES / MARKETING Indian, 8 years experience in sales & marketing looking for suitable job.

NOC available. Contact: 99837447 Email: rhlboss86@gmail.com Indian male 27 yrs, Master of Tourism Management, 2 .5 yrs exp in India (Tour operation, Front Office, Ticketing, Reservation, Sales & Marketing) with computer skills looking suitable placement, now on visit visa. Contact: 98837395/ 95213711 Indian male 26, MBA in Marketing, 4 years experience in sales and marketing with valid GCC D/L Now in visiting visa looking for challenging opportunities.

Contact: 98666324 Email: ajithvjames@gmail.com Seeks suitable placement sales, marketing, and supervisor.

Contact: 98522914 Indian male 27 years 5 years G.C.C experience in sales & marketing with valid Oman license holder, NOC is available, looking for suitable position.

Contact: 94048369 Indian male 28 yrs B.Com 5 yrs exp Admin / sales seeking job, NOC available. Contact: 96191521 Indian male 29, six exp at East Africa, seeking for store keeper or inventory controller job.

Contact: 99695002 Indian male B.Tech Auto mobile with MBA in marketing& HR, 3 yrs experience in service field, looking suitable job in Oman NOC available. Contact: 79080760 Email: althafhussain262@gmail.com Male, MBA Marketing, 21 years experience in Sales and Marketing, looking for suitable job. (in Muscat on visit visa) Contact: 96234986 Email: tanvirtufail@gmail.com BBA Graduate male Indian having valid Oman driving license looking for a job in the field of sales and marketing available immediately. Contact: 24566124 / 92518257 Indian 27 years, 1 yr sales executive in Oman with Oman driving license with NOC. Contact: 97768047

Indian male 29 seeking for store keeping and inventory controller job with 6 years exp at East Africa.

Contact: 99695002 Email: arafathw880i@gmail.com BBA professional with experience in Store Operations, Logistics and Retail. In Oman on visit visa, Mobile: 99660641, Email: suhaib_jamal60@hotmail.com Filipino female. Bachelor Degree in Political Science,7 years experience in Administration, Sales and Training. I’m a highly motivated, hard working, skillful, and willing to work in a full time basis.

Contact #71149947 Indian male with 6 years experience in sales in oman. NOC available, looking for suitable placement.

Contact 95364128 Resident in Oman 18 years, 10 years experience in setup marketing plans and strategies, sales, import & logistics, procurement, Omani government tenders, organizing projects & events, import fireworks for festivals, NOC available, have car. Contact 94123939.

Email: 002015r@gmail.com

Oil & gas experienced Indian lady with 6 years in sales & marketing to PDO and having valid Omani driving license. Contact:96143430 / 99875919 Indian Male, 26 M.Com with 4 yrs of Experience in Accounting & Administration in a Financial Company in India, seeks suitable job, Currently in India. +918907212253 Akhil:-93626288, Email: Sumeshpsmkr1989@gmail.com BBA Bachelor of business administration exp in custom clearance procedure, also done international logistics management & Nimb National Institute business management (US) certification all documentation work related logistics. contact – 91949050 / akram.chaush001@gmail.com Indian Male, MBA marketing 5 yrs exp. in sales & 4 yrs in FMCG sector, looking for best opportunity.

NOC available. Contact: 96001877

TOURS & TRAVELS Indian female 25 yrs, Bachelor in Travel & Tourism and 2 year exp in Oman as Travel consultant .GDS-Sabre, Amdeus. NOC Available.

Contact- 95883404

MISCELLANEOUS Indian female PhD, M.Phil, M.A in English, B.Ed, Diploma TESOL,16 years teaching experience seeks suitable teaching, editing or relevant job. Contact: 92245591, 95221665 Indian female M.SC computer science experienced in teaching in B.Sc computers ( 4 years) seeking suitable placement. Contact: 99845143 / 93214375 Indian male 26 years (EEE) , 4 years in HVAC related works, LT Electrical panels installations & commissioning planning of preventive maintenance works for DOL starters & star delta starters , seeking suitable job.

Contact: 93214375 / 99845143 Indian male accountant looking for a part time accounting job / data entry / office job.

Contact : 93884951

MANPOWER

Indian male 26 yrs, Graduate, 3 years experience with Air India seeking suitable opportunity with reputed firms. Contact: 98847095 Indian male Graduate with 18 years of Marketing experience presently in Oman on family visit visa, looking for best opportunity.

Contact: 96168687 Email: dhibupaul@gmail.com Indian female 29 years Post Graduate with computer Knowledge 2 years of Oman experience in coordinator & 5 years of experience in customer service, client relation officer with excellent communication skill seeks suitable placement. Contact: 95337665 Indian male, MBA with around 15 years of experience as Senior Sales & Marketing Manager in building materials with valid driving license release available.

Contact: 93510350 10+ Years Exp , 8 years In UAE , in Logistics ,Warehouse & Inventory looking for Job. Contact Number -00968 98096086 Indian male 26 years of experience of sales & marketing in surgical and laboratory equipments.

Looking for good replacement.

Contact – 92015894 /95774854 Indian male age 24, B.Com. having 2 year experience and currently in visit visa. Looking for suitable placement in Sales, Marketing & finance. Contact: 90766307 Email: shhaazz.007@gmail.com Indian Origin, Portuguese Nationality male MBA (Marketing) excellent English vast multi-tasking experience 29+ years in Admin HR/PR Logistics sales facility management with Oman driving license seeks suitable placement.

Contact 94034168 Email: sheriagnes@gmail.com Indian male 37 years MBA graduate in marketing with 9yrs of experience in UAE in field of brand promotions & marketing with UAE D/L on a visit seeking suitable position. Conatct 95792820

WANTED Urgently required looking to immediately buy used Grit blasting & airless spray equipment 1 No each. Contact 968 24810930 / 93203772 / 93203773 / 93203778

NRI Full furnished 2 BHK apartment for sale at Elamakkara, Ernakulam, 2 km vicinity Bavans School, Lulu mall at 55 Lac for NRI investment, rent out. Contact: +968 94442391 / +91 9961883223

MATRIMONIAL 29 years Latin Catholic boy hailing from Kollam, working in a reputed company in Muscat, looking for a suitable girl working in Muscat or India. Contact 93871802 or +919544474275.

Seeking alliance from well settled Ezhava boys for an Ezhava girl 28 yrs 158cm, Utharam star M.Tech and currently working in Oman for a reputed Govt. organization.

Contact: 90951677 / 95219895 Pakistani national well settled in Oman seeks suitable alliance fom Phillipina national ladies, please contact at whats app 968 96279927 Marriage makers widow/ divorce/ new for Indian Kerala & Indian Muslims. Contact: Whatsapp: 00968 98796982 & calling 98604960 Ezhavaboy age 28 height 174cm Star anizhamBTech working in Oman Seeks suitable alliance.

Contact 99430227

T U E S DAY, O C T O B E R 1 8 , 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

RENT A CAR

RENT A CAR

25 - 50 seater bus with PDO & BP specification for monthly rent & small car with driver.

Contact 99839898

DRIVING

Female Driving Teacher training professionally in both Khuwair Ghubrah and Azaiba, mawalih and Alkhawd. With good English Language for connect No.95133981

SITUATION WANTED BUSINESS TRANSPORTATION House shifting and transport.

Contact: 96737158 Transportation available Pick and drop Ruwi, Al Khuwair, Azaiba & Al Hail. Contact: 94297820 Transportation. Contact: 94087276 Transportation. Contact 91703829 Transportation. Contact: 98178135 Transportation. Contact 90558627 Transportation. Contact 94510847 Transportation. Contact 92015894

LOOKING FOR SUB CONTRACTING JOBS

An SME’S excellent grade construction company is looking for civil subcontracting jobs.

We are specialized in interlocking, block work, plaster work etc.

Contact 91433508, Email : business@aljammaza.com

D7

D8

T U E S D AY, O C T O B E R 1 8 , 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED TOURS

SITUATION WANTED COMPUTER/WEB./ EDU./CLASSES

Karate and self defense classes at Azaiba 18 Nov Street. RO 10 per month twice a week Monday and Tuesday 6. 30 TO 7. 30. PM. Contact: 98294551

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

SITUATION WANTSERVICES MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. Contact 24793614/ 99314807

Pest control & Building cleaning all kinds of pest control building. Cleaning tiles / Marble polishing monthly/ Yearly contracts available.

Contact: 98814733 /98814740 Al Husn Cleaning L.L.C

Spoken Arabic class for Non Arabic Speakers & English class for Malayalam Speakers

in Azaiba and Ruwi

WE SERVE OMAN

SERVICES We Provide Cleaners, Office boys, Cleaning Contracts, General cleaning etc.

Al Mudakhir National Est. LLC Contact : 94277020

GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998

Window unit & split unit A.C servicing & repairing - Barka, Mabela, Ruwi area. Contact: 99557080

Maintenance, Sub contract work electrical work, plumbing work.

Contact: 97895741

House shifting packing.

Contact: 99657644 / 98518013

We do building maintenance all kind of works.

Contact: 99247663 Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722

Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & anti-termite treatment, general cleaning painting,Plumbing,Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. Contact: 24810137, 99450130

• Learn in two months • Satisfaction guaranteed

Split unit & widow unit A.C servicing & maintenance Barka, Mabela, Ruwi area.

Contact 95323517

Tel: 95244310

We undertake new construction & maintenance & gypsum works.

Contact 92711506, ammarayyub@gmail.com Pest Control Treatments.

Ocean Center L.L.C. #99344723 Marble Crystallization & Grinding, Ocean Center L.L.C. Contact 92705130 Affordable rates all types of curtain blind. Contact: 99539521/ 95615642 Carpet & Sofa Shampooing General Cleaning & Polishing Ocean Center L.L.C. Contact 24707833

Split unit & window unit A.C servicing & maintenance - Barka, Mabela, Ruwi area.

Contact: 96236476 Painting & plumbing work.

Contact: 95963682 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722

We arrange tours & accommodation at all the beautiful places in Oman. Contact 99839898 *Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

T I ME S OF OMAN S PECI A L SU PPL EMEN T

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

1

TRAFFIC SAFETY EXPO 2016

Road safety back in focus Government urged to invest in a safe traffic management system

2

Oman must set up independent road safety council for sustainable change

3

Drive safe to live another day

4

Shahzad Raza shahzad@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: With road accidents reaching alarming proportions in recent years, Government of Oman is mindful of its responsibility to make the roads safer for all users in the country.

As many as 6279 accidents happened in Oman in 2015 alone leading to loss of precious lives and causing serious injuries and disabilities to the survivors.

Feeling the need to create mass awareness about road safety in the country, Royal Oman Police, in association with Omanexpo, has organised another interactive event to bring the hot issue to focus.

The three-day Traffic Safety Expo 2016 kicks off today at 9 am

at Oman International Exhibition Centre with large-scale participation of more than hundred stakeholders including twenty-seven ministries and government bodies, five ROP Divisions, six wilayats, ten NGOs and fifty-nine companies.

The exhibition, which is going to serve as the key platform to showcase the latest trends and innovative solutions in traffic safety, will be inaugurated by Mohsin bin Mohamed Al Shaikh Chairman, Muscat Municipality. Expected to be attended by a large number of participants from both public and private sectors, the exhibition will highlight effective safety models and best practices implemented in

the private sector.

“Omanexpo has managed Traffic Safety Expo twice so far, the first one in 2013. In the 2012 edition of our Oman International Motor Show, we had included, as part of our corporate social responsibility initiatives, a road safety awareness campaign in partnership with Safety First organisation. The show featured road safety demonstrations by the ROP and Civil Defense,” Nader Abbas, General Manager, Omanexpo, informed Times of Oman.

Explaining the need to organise such events, he said: “As an exhibitions organiser, we believe that by using our event platforms, we are

able to contribute to the government’s campaign for social responsibility. As the response to these events has been positive, we could say that they have been effective in sending out our message.”

“We have also organised two editions of Oman Energy & Water Exhibition & Conference, in cooperation with the Public Authority for Electricity & Water, which also comes in line with our CSR initiatives, emphasizing the value of power and water resources and the implications of the shortage of these resources, and the impact on the country’s future in the long term,” he added.

How effective are these exhibi-

tions and what are the major gains?

“Apart from the bigger role we are playing in terms of our contribution to each sector vis-à-vis business and investment opportunities and showcasing Oman’s investment potential globally, our exhibitions are being recognised not only locally, but regionally and worldwide as well. As a result, more international companies are coming over to participate in our exhibitions,” said Nader.

The Traffic Safety Expo is likely to go a long way in not only highlighting the major causes of accidents but suggesting necessary steps and workable solutions to make roads safer in Oman.

2

T IM ES OF OMAN SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

TRAFFIC SAFETY EXPO 2016 Need to make roads safer for children

Times News Service MUSCAT: The Oman Traffic Safety expo, which will be held from October 18 to 20 at the Oman International Exhibition, is expected to touch upon the important subject of ‘Children and road safety’.

It is reported that every four minutes a child is prematurely lost on the roads of this world.

Many more are injured, often critically. Therefore, any measures or strategies that need to be worked out must ensure the safety of children on the roads. Though Oman has several strategies in place to make roads safer for children yet more needs to be done to ensure their safety.

Dr Margaret Chan, DirectorGeneral, World Health Organization, rightly summed up the sentiment: “The future of a country is its young people. We cannot

afford to lose our children to road traffic crashes.

No single measure adequately addresses the vast range of risks to children on the road, however, there are steps that each family, community, and country can take to improve road safety for children. We are in the middle of the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011–2020 which offers a broad framework for taking these and other actions to keep children safe on the road.

For children who are occupants of a vehicle, a range of restraints is available to protect them. These include infant car seats, child car seats, booster seats and seat belts, and their use depends on the age, weight and height of the child. As compared to using seat-belts alone, booster seats are estimated to reduce by 59 percent the risk of children aged four to seven years sus-

taining significant injuries during a road traffic crash.

The ROP should focus on the safety of children on the busy streets, especially around the school campus, the shopping malls, recreation places, etc. Promoting road safety once in few months in schools by explaining and guiding schoolchildren about traffic rules and regulations will inculcate a sense of road safety into them. Several themes can be developed which would be projected through wall calendars, posters, children activity books, books on road safety signages in English and Arabic languages for a better reach. Introducing school safety zones which include a package of speed reduction measures, carfree zones, safe drop-off and pickup points, and crossing guards can supplement the efforts of making roads safer to the children.

Government urged to invest in a safe traffic management system

MUSCAT: Road safety experts say that traffic accidents cost the Sultanate millions of Omani rials annually. Thus a need to showcase safety solutions and to bring an awareness on road safety was long felt. The Traffic Safety Expo 2016 slated from October 18th to 20 at the Oman International Exhibition Centre, promises to be an educative and rewarding experience.

More than 100 companies are exhibiting at the show, with exhibitor profile ranging from road infrastructure equipments and services, emergency and rescue, road safety to traffic management, Intelligent traffic systems, fire and protection. Oman has been making serious efforts to bring down road fatalities. It has successfully brought down the fatalities figure - from 1192 in 2012 to 675 in 2015. The number of accidents that occurred in Oman stood at 6279 in 2015. Out of these, number of collisions was 2959, collision with fixed object (1443), overturn (1075), pedestrians run-over 613 and animals run-over (189). Among the

regions, Al Batinah recorded the most deaths due to accidents: 115 out of total 675 deaths.

Today we are able to see a silver lining after a devastating accident record over the years. The government has assured its citizens of their right to be safe. Reforms are being initiated towards building the missing capacity in all domains of a safe traffic management system.

In order to diagnose the problems leading to unsafe roads, another area of reforms is scientific investigation of road accidents.

Policemen who investigate crashes should be professionally trained, and should possess the basic tools to collect evidence, and analyse and reconstruct the events leading to the crash.

It is therefore imperative to mention that transport is the basis of sustainable development in any economy and for this, investing in safe traffic management system is vital. Therefore, capacity building in a safe traffic management system will contribute directly to building the economy of Oman.

T I ME S OF OMAN S PECI A L SU PPL EMEN T

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

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TRAFFIC SAFETY EXPO 2016

OMAN MUST SET UP INDEPENDENT ROAD SAFETY COUNCIL FOR SUSTAINABLE CHANGE: EXPERT Shahzad Raza shahzad@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Road safety and casualty reduction is a broad area that requires to be actively attended to.

Government of Oman must set up an independent Road Safety Council to deliver a highly cost effective and sustainable change. This was stated by a top road safety expert in the country.

“Oman would benefit from adopting a ministerial-led, multistake holder holistic approach.

Safety is not delivered through speed cameras and enforcement in isolation. Enforcement has its place but engineering, education and evaluation working together in a balanced and effective programme will not only deliver highly successful solutions but also ensure significant cost savings,” explained Simon Labbett, Contract Manager for the Road Safety Standards Body (RSSB) on behalf of PDO in the Sultanate of Oman, in an interview to Times of Oman.

Simon is an international specialist in road traffic collision reconstruction and associated human factors with more than 38 years road safety experience across four continents. A resident in the GCC for the past eight years, he was responsible for leading the development of the Road Safety Strategy

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Excerpts from the interview: Omani roads were pretty safe till at least a decade ago. With so many accidents taking place now, what in your view are the main reasons for such alarming road fatalities?

Our roads and the vehicles we use have always had the same level of risk. However, as society becomes more mobile the risks appear to increase. It is for this very reason that the World Health Organisation is predicting a global epidemic of road deaths and has set out on the ‘Decade of Action’. Despite the random nature of road deaths the respective increases and decreases can be predicted. Road casualties are not a natural consequence of increased mobility, they can be avoided, they can be treated and they can be reduced. Where they occur on a large scale they are not a failure of individuals but a reflection of the environment which enables them occur. Road safety and casualty reduction is a broad area that requires to be actively attended to. No single organisation, no matter how well meaning and resourced or acting in isolation, will be able to resolve and deliver a suitable and sustainable road safety solution.

What steps would you suggest to the Omani authorities to make roads safer in the country?

Oman would benefit from adopting a Ministerial-led, multi-stake holder holistic approach. Safety is not delivered through speed cameras and enforcement in isolation. Enforcement has its place but engineering, education and evaluation working together in a balanced and effective programme will not only deliver highly successful solutions but also ensure significant cost savings. Internationally, it is calculated the loss to society caused by a single fatal accident is some $2 million. Road casualties represent some 2.5% of a country’s annual GDP. Investing in road safety will result in significant financial savings without even considering the non-monetary value of the actual lives saved.

Government accountants around the world need to wake up to their responsibilities and realise that money invested is money and lives that will be saved. The country is currently investing in a massive road improvement programme.

Designs that are being delivered need to be independently safety audited if the benefits in safety of the new roads are to be realised.

Many families in Oman have already been touched by tragedy.

This suffering and grief can be fur-

Many families in Oman have already been touched by tragedy. This suffering and grief can be further avoided through a smarter joined-up approach to road safety and the way we do things. As a society we can do so much more. All the guidance and support is readily available we just need to act smarter and act in a coordinated way Simon Labbett Contract Manager for RSSB

TOP FIVE PIECES OF ADVICE TO DRIVERS IN OMAN 1 2

Keep the distance around you. Don’t follow too close or allow others to press you from behind.

3 4 5

Keep to the speed limits and always return to the correct lane when you have completed your overtake. that

Wear seatbelts. Seatbelts save lives and remember no one plans to have an accident so you have to be prepared. Children are particularly vulnerable so ensure they are fitted in suitable child safety seats.

Never use mobile phones when driving; it is a significant safety risk.

Take a break if you are tired or have been driving for two or more hours. Fatigue is a sleeping killer.

— Simon Labbett, road safety expert

ther avoided through a smarter joined-up approach to road safety and the way we do things. As a society we can do so much more. All the guidance and support is readily available we just need to act smarter and act in a coordinated way.

Since residents travel a lot among Gulf states, do you think traffic laws in these countries complement each other to ensure better understanding of traffic laws?

The majority of traffic laws in the GCC are similar. This is good for the level of understanding and consistency from state to state but not so good as they are not repre-

sentative of best practice international standards; there is much work that needs to be done. Laws are set to seek compliance and not to raise revenue through fines, this also applies to standards. If the products we use and rely on are not set to the current international safety standards then as users we are being let down. Manufacturers will manufacture to a standard. Safety standards do not imply higher costs, they seek just higher safety. If we allow manufacturers to build and supply equipment that does not meet international safety standards then there is good evidence that that is all they will do.

Our safety will be compromised

whilst the corporate manufacturer shareholders will be the beneficiaries from our loss.

What is key to ensuring road safety?

There is no such thing as a magic bullet when it comes to road safety. If you could however do one thing that would set in place all the accountability and coordination that would deliver a highly cost effective and sustainable change, then establish an independent Road Safety Council reporting directly to His Highness’s office. This will enable the holistic and joined-up programmes that are essential to delivering sustainable casualty reduction.

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T IM ES OF OMAN SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2016

TRAFFIC SAFETY EXPO 2016 Drive safe to live another day

NEED OF THE HOUR: NEW SPEED MANAGEMENT PLAN Times News Service

Times News Service MUSCAT: With growing number of accidents in Oman leading to loss of many precious lives every year, it’s time drivers and passengers took extra precautions to support government efforts aimed at enhancing road safety.

All roads will lead to Oman Traffic Safety expo which opened today at the Oman International Exhibition Centre. Organised under the aegis of Omanexpo, in association with the Royal Oman Police (ROP), the event is going to focus on vehicle safety features besides showcasing latest products and services in the domain of road safety.

These days, a number of cars have introduced additional safety features in all variants but still when accidents happen take a heavy toll.

According to a Ministry of Health official, more than 70 per cent of emergency surgeries con-

ducted in the Sultanate are related to road accidents, with youngsters accounting for the majority of them. Worldwide, about 1.24 million people die each year as a result of road accidents.

Seat belts Failure to buckle up while driving contributes to more deaths than any other reason. The majority of all injuries and deaths from traffic crashes are preventable provided the road users abide by the seat belt rules strictly.

According to an expert, “Seat belts and airbags make it possible to survive collisions that could have otherwise resulted in serious, if not fatal, injuries. Automotive manufacturers should mount their cars with ESP (electronic stability programme) which are much safer than ever before.”

“When lap and shoulder belts are used correctly, they reduce

the risk of fatal injury by 45 per cent and the risk of moderate to critical injury by 50 per cent.

Only you can use your seat belt to ensure your safety. If you are not concerned about your personal safety, then think about how your accident could affect your family and friends,” added the expert.

Seat belts provide a solid protection against being thrown off.

Three-quarters of those thrown out from cars during a crash are killed. Just after the car rapidly comes to a stop, passengers not wearing seat belts forcefully come into contact with the steering wheel, windshield, the car’s interior, or are pushed out of the car. Passengers not wearing seat belts are at serious risk of injury and can be a potentially fatal threat to others in the vehicle during a crash.

Another view is that passengers think that a seat belt is not needed when driving at slow speeds or on

short trips. For all trips and speed seat belt is a must.

Air bags Air bags are passive restraint devices camouflaged in the steering wheel or dashboard. They operate automatically, in the blink of an eye and do not obstruct driver visibility or reduce driver control. Activated by sensors located in the bumper and engine compartment. Sensors automatically activate in a frontal crash. Position yourself at least 18 inches (0.5 metre) away from the airbag. Always wear your seat belt. Never hold pens, cups, cellular phones or other objects in your hands while driving, as these can come in forceful contact with your face by a deploying airbag.

To sum up, passengers need to take precautions and vehicles should conform to safety features higher than that required by the safety regulations.

MUSCAT: Speed management will be in focus during the three-day Oman Traffic Safety expo that starts today at the Oman International Exhibition Centre under the auspices of Omanexpo, in association with the Royal Oman Police (ROP).

According to an expert, “It is time ROP took the lead by encouraging good practices in road safety management and then took up these interventions in ways appropriate to country’s particular settings.

For improving road safety, speed management is a very significant tool. However, improving compliance with speed limits and reducing unsafe driving speeds are not easy tasks. Many drivers do not recognise the risks involved and often the perceived benefits of speeding outweigh the perceived problems.”

One of the serious challenges encountered by road safety practitioners is the management of speed.

It calls for a concerted, long-term, multidisciplinary response. Oman should advocate a strong and strategic approach to creating a safe road system, with speed management at its heart. Speed management plan should be aimed at reducing the number of road traffic crashes and the serious injury and death that can result from them.

Speed management must include a slew of measures consisting of enforcement, engineering and education. The more widespread the measures, particularly enforcement, and the greater the range, severity and implementa-

tion of sanctions against speeding, the more compliance will result.

Speeding (i.e. driving above the speed limit) and inappropriate speed (driving too fast for the conditions, which relate to the driver, vehicle, road and traffic mix rather than the speed limit) are almost universally recognised as major contributory factors in both the number and severity of traffic crashes. In many countries, speed limits are set at levels that are too high for the roadside conditions and the mix and volume of road users. Speed management policies and programmes will play a key role in any effort to improve a country’s road safety record.

Carefully targeted, wide-scale infrastructure programmes, vehicle safety improvements and enforcing appropriate speed limits will reduce the likelihood of crashes occurring and/or reduce their severity to survivable levels.

Though Oman’s highways are fitted with speed monitors, including Poliscan Speed systems for speed enforcement and Poliscan red light systems for traffic light enforcement, yet the number of violators is increasing. So, drivers need to be made aware of the consequences of speeding.

The management of drivers’ speed involves a wide range of measures including setting and enforcing speed limits, engineering measures designed to reduce speeds, and public education and awareness campaigns.