Times of Oman - May 30, 2016

MONDAY

May 30, 2016 23 Sha’aban 1437 AH

FROM THE WORDS OF HIS MAJESTY THE SULTAN

On the occasion of the 7th National Day, 1977

‘His Majesty’s Wisdom’ Oman is playing - and will increasingly play - an important role in world affairs, the growing impact of the 20th Century on every aspect of the life of our country is evident to every one of us.

Founded 1975 . Volume 41 No. 84

| 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

FALSE ECONOMY?

CABLE

HM sends greetings to Chad MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has sent a cable of congratulations to President Idriss Deby of Chad on the occasion of his being re-elected for a new presidential term.

In his cable, His Majesty the Sultan has expressed his sincere congratulations along with his best wishes of good health and happiness to President Deby, wishing him success in leading the people of Chad towards further progress and prosperity and the relations between the two countries further progress and growth. -ONA

Majlis Al Shura defends teachers

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SEVERE SUMMER

Take care of your health during Ramadan fasts, say experts BABA UMAR

Dilip Singhvi, Medical Director of Apollo Hospital in Ruwi, told Times of Oman.

He noted that diabetic patients who take insulin, should normally not fast.

babaumar@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Over-eating, dehydration and upset stomach could result in the Holy Month of Ramadan becoming a dangerous time if safety measures are not taken, health experts have warned.

The Royal Oman Police’s 2016 ‘Facts and Figures’ reveal that in July last year, 71 people lost their lives in road accidents. In July 2014, 78 people had died.

The Muslim month of fasting begins in the first week of June amid soaring temperatures, with fasting ranging between 15 and 16 hours per day.

Sales of regular petrol triple in 2016 as austerity hits drivers Concerns that rise in cheaper fuel use could damage environment

TURN TO >A5

Comes as Oman waits for latest fuel prices, with increase expected

20 PER CENT LESS

TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

Cheaper Bangkok fare OMAN Expat commits suicide on Thai AirAsia X

1

Another apparent suicide has claimed the life of an Indian in Oman. >A3

DEEBA HASAN

deeba@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Fares offered by Thai AirAsia X between Muscat and Bangkok will be reduced by as much as 20 per cent, according to Nadda Buranasari, Chief Executive Officer.

The airline recently announced three direct flights between Muscat and Bangkok on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays starting June 28.

“Our fares will be around 20 per cent cheaper than what other airlines are offering in Oman,” he added.

“We are truly excited to be the first long-haul, low-cost carrier to launch direct flights from Muscat to Bangkok. We are confident that there is great potential in connecting the two destinations, and it is our pleasure to play a role in offering low fares and convenient connectivity,” Buranasari added.

In 2015, nearly 71,000 Omanis travelled to Thailand, and with Thai AirAsia X providing some 59,000 seats per year, this number is expected to increase.

Buranasari noted that their

WORLD

17 dead in Ukraine fire

2

Seventeen people were killed in an Ukraine building blaze. >A15

MARKET

Water project tenders target was to have 100,000 visitors to Thailand from Oman every year.

Travel market He said that fluctuating oil prices have not proven to be a major cause of concern, and that the travel market is not heavily affected by the current austerity.

“The way Air Asia operates, we very much depend on the lifestyle of the new generation of passengers, and that is why our fare models are designed to be tailor-made, so maybe it will have an effect, but these days the economy and travel doesn’t correlate that much. >A7

3

Initial tenders were floated by OPWP for two water projects. >B1

MORNING MINUTE

“The eating hours are less, seven or eight hours, so people need to make sure that they consume at least three litres of fluid every day. Good hydration is mandatory, because the whole month’s temperature could be hovering around 48-50 degree Celsius,” Dr

Consult doctors “But since religious obligation is there, they should consult their doctors before the start of Ramadan and get their medication altered according to the fasting and eating hours. If a patient has good control and is consuming only one or two tablets, then that’s fine.

They can alter the timings and fast,” Dr Singhvi added. >A7 Ramadan timings >A4

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GROWING CONCERN

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OMAN 2015-2016 ACADEMIC YEAR

May toll 5 as another Indian General Education Diploma exam life lost in apparent suicide takers warned against cheating FAHAD AL GHADANI

REJIMON K

fahadnews@timesofoman.com

reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Another apparent suicide has claimed the life of an Indian in Oman, bringing the toll to five this month.

The victim, an Indian mason, was found dead in a house under construction on Saturday morning, according to social workers and his friends.

The mason, identified as Babu Krishnan from the south Indian state of Kerala, had gone missing on Saturday morning, his friends said.

“He used to make phone calls late into the night. On Friday, we went to bed after dinner and watching television, presuming that he would return as usual.

However, on Saturday morning we found that he was missing.

Later on, we learned that he was found hanging at the house under construction,” friends said.

Family informed “His family has been informed about the tragedy. We learned that he had some financial problems back home. Moreover, he had told us that his wife and father were not well,” the friends added.

During the first and second week of May, four Indians committed suicide in Oman, prompting the Indian embassy to step up its outreach programmes.

Following reports about the suicides in Times of Oman, Indra Mani Pandey, the Indian ambassador in Oman, posted a comment on Facebook that incidences of NRIs committing suicide have become a matter of concern.

PILGRIMAGE

1,181 fail to get Haj licence for not providing required data FAHAD AL GHADANI

fahadnews@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Haj licences were not issued for 1,181 pilgrims by the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs due to the failure of applicants to provide all data required by the ministry, according to the official account of the ministry at social media.

The ministry had warned approved pilgrims to complete all data and register through the approved Haj website.www. hajj.com for selecting their Haj organising campaigns, or their licences would not be issued.

Dropped names replaced Further, the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs has replaced the dropped names with 1,181 new names, including 224 females.

The ministry announced that among the 18,587 who applied for this year’s Haj, only 9,081 were approved.

Update sought The ministry announced earlier that 2,346 pilgrims did not specify their travelling mode yet, and called upon them to update the ministry.

The ministry stated that 3,034 pilgrims will travel over land for the Haj, while 4,522 will travel by air. The ministry has called upon pilgrims who have been contacted by the ministry for approval to register their campaigns through the approved website hajj.com.

The ministry warned that any other way to register campaigns will be not accepted.

CRIME

20 arrested, 161 deported by ROP MUSCAT: Twenty infiltrators of different nationalities were arrested by the Royal Oman Police (ROP) in collaboration with other military and security departments last week. The ROP also deported 161 infiltrators after taking the necessary legal actions, in coordination with their respective embassies. -ONA

MUSCAT: In all, 49,122 students will sit for the General Education Diploma (GED) exams for the 2015-2016 academic year, the Ministry of Education has announced.

The exams will begin on May 31 in several governorates of the Sultanate and continue until June 15.

Dr. Zuwaina bint Saleh Al Maskari, general director and supervisor of the exams, said 355 examination centres have been selected.

Al Maskari added that all students must abide by the rules and

During the first and second week of May, four Indians committed suicide in Oman, prompting the Indian embassy to step up its outreach programmes

Outreach “It is a huge loss for their families.

The mission house is committed to doing everything possible within its means. We will work with Omani authorities and employers to enhance communications and outreach. Any initiatives taken by various wings of the Indian social club in Oman assisting the mission house is welcome, as always,” the Indian ambassador posted.

According to the latest data from the Government of India, 1,384 Indians reportedly committed suicide abroad in the last three

years, with the maximum reported number at 541 in the UAE. Replying to a question in the Lok Sabha (the lower house of the Indian Parliament), Minister of State of Overseas Indian Affairs V K Singh said 497 Indians had committed suicide in 2013, 451 in 2014 and 436 ended their lives as of December 4, 2015. According to details provided by the minister, based upon information from Indian missions in 142 countries, 541 Indians have committed suicide in the UAE since 2013, followed by 337 in Saudi Arabia and 123 in Oman.

regulations, as published in a ministerial decision in 2015, especially regarding cheating and other practices, adding that the ministry will punish cheating.

Al Maskari explained that candidates can only bring those items that are allowed in the exams, such as pens, rulers and erasers, in addition to any tools needed for specific courses.

Candidates may not take any of the following into the examination centre: any electronic devices, such as phones, pagers, cameras, personal computers and data storage devices; newspapers and magazines; study books and dia-

ries; anything related to the exam; handbags; sharp instruments or weapons of any kind.

The ministry will punish those who cheat or offer help to others to cheat, be it candidates or those who supervise exams.

During the previous academic year of 2014-2015, the Ministry penalised those who did not abide by the rules by failing those subjects in which candidates were found to have behaved contrary to set rules.

Al Maskari added that students can apply for a review of three courses only during the first week after the publication of the results.

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MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016 This year, we will concentrate not only on Dar Al Hanan, but also the Mobile Mammography Unit, because it needs a lot of funds to keep it going Dr Wahid Al Kharusi, Oman Cancer Association’s new president

OMAN H O LY M O N T H

Ramadan working hours decided MUSCAT: Sayyid Khalid bin Hilal bin Saud Al Busaidi, Minister of the Diwan of Royal Court, Chairman of the Civil Service Council yesterday issued a decision declaring that official working hours at the ministries, public authorities and other departments of the state’s administrative apparatus during the Holy Month of Ramadan for 1437 AH will be from 9am to 2pm. Ramadan moon-sighting will be announced by the authorities concerned. The Minister of the Diwan of Royal Court extended his heartfelt greetings and best wishes to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said on this blessed occa-

sion, praying to Allah the Almighty to protect His Majesty and grant him a good health, happiness and a long life and for the return of this and similar occasions on His Majesty for many years to come, the Omani people and our dear country further progress and welfare under His Majesty’s wise leadership and blessings to all Muslims.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser Al Bakri, Minister of Manpower issued a decision reducing working hours at the private sector’s companies and establishments for Muslims during the Holy Month of Ramadan to 6 hours per day and (30) hours per week. -ONA

Airbus A330-200 for Muscat-Doha flights MUSCAT: Oman Air saw a 41 per cent increase in passengers flying between Muscat and Doha last year, the airline reported.

Oman Air will begin flying its flagship Airbus A330-200 aircraft between Muscat and Doha starting June 1, Oman Air said in a statement. “The A330s will operate every Sunday, Monday and Tuesday as part of the airline’s schedule of four daily flights to Qatar’s capital city,” itadded.

Oman Air’s upgrade of the Doha flights from narrow-body aircraft to the spacious A330s has been undertaken in response to increasing demand for flights between Muscat and Doha. The larger jets offer 20 business class seats and 196 economy class seats, enabling more customers to fly between the two cities and access Oman Air’s expanding global network.

When Oman Air first launched its Muscat-Doha service in 1996, it offered three flights per week. Fre-

Sudhir Sreedharan, Senior Vice President, Commercial for flydubai said, the airline is keen to operate whenever a new airport is opened in the GCC countries.

OMAN AIR

Staff Reporter

flydubai weighs Sohar, Duqm service feasibility

quencies subsequently increased to seven flights weekly, and then 21 flights by first quarter of 2015.

The airline now offers 28 flights per week and, in 2015, Oman Air carried 134,832 passengers on the route: an increase of 41 per cent over the previous year. Oman Air’s A330 fleet has been deployed primarily on long haul routes.

However, the aircraft’s flexibility, capacity and comfort also make it ideal for high-demand, short haul operations. It provides an environment in which customers can enjoy Oman Air’s authentic hospitality and welcoming onboard service. The deployment of A330s on Oman Air’s Muscat-Doha service forms part of the airline’s current fleet and network expansion plan.

In addition to increasing the size of its fleet to 70 aircraft by 2020, Oman Air is unveiling a range of new destinations, increased frequencies and more capacity on established routes, along with improved connections at its base of Muscat International Airport.

And that is one of the reasons discussions are going on with Omani authorities EXPANSION: Sudhir Sreedharan said that flydubai has been a success story in Oman since it began operations in 2010. — Supplied photo

RAHUL DAS

rahuldas@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: flydubai, the UAEbased budget airline, is conducting a feasibility study to start operations from Sohar and Duqm airports, a senior official of the airline said on Thursday.

Speaking to Times of Oman, Sudhir Sreedharan, Senior Vice President, Commercial for flydubai, said that discussions are continuing regarding possible service to Sohar. “But nothing has been finalised about when we will start flights to Sohar, as the airport still has some limitations,” he said. He also said that flydubai is keen to operate whenever a new airport is opened in the GCC countries. “And that is one of the reasons discussions are going on with Omani authorities,” Sreedharan said from the flydubai stand at Muscat City Centre on Thursday. The stand was set up to

flydubai currently operates 54 flights, including seven daily flights to Muscat and five weekly flights to Salalah, each week to Oman

showcase flydubai’s network and for people visiting the mall to experience business class seats.

Sudhir Sreedharan said that flydubai has been a success story in Oman since it began operations in 2010. “We have carried more than 2 million passengers from Oman since we began operations in Oman,” he said. flydubai, which recently announced twice daily services to Salalah during khareef, is weighing the scheduling of one more

flight. “An estimate from the market says that twice daily services are not enough, and we are thinking of adding one more flight to Salalah during the khareef season,” Sreedharan added.

The airline currently operates 54 flights, including seven daily flights to Muscat and five weekly flights to Salalah, each week to Oman. However, from July 23 to September 28 the airline will add another daily flight between Salalah and Dubai, bringing the

total frequency to Oman to 63 flights per week. “We want more travelers from all over the world to come down to Oman, and that is one of the reasons we are adding our flights to Oman,” he said.

He also said Oman is a trade and tourism hub for flydubai and they remain dedicated to offering passengers more options to travel between the two countries, whether in business or economy class. “With the recent addition of WiFi connectivity and live television, our high-quality service, convenient travel schedules and great value for money continues to be popular with our passengers,” Sreedharan said. He noted that the entry of a low cost airline from Oman will not hamper their operations. “The more the merrier, as it is good for the trade and business, and eventually it will benefit the customers,” he noted.

CHARITY

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to keep mobile cancer unit alive

NOBLE CAUSE: The Mobile Mammography Unit costs OMR118,000 annually to operate, with costs

including insurance, maintenance of the machine and truck, and salaries. — Supplied photo

targeting, Al Azri said, “The sky is the limit. We want to try and get as much as we possibly can.”

TARIQ ZIAD AL HAREMI

tariqh@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: The Oman Cancer Association’s (OCA) Mobile Mammography Unit (MMU) may be closed down, as the organisation is struggling to raise funds to pay for the MMU’s expenses.

The Mobile Mammography Unit costs OMR118,000 annually to operate, with costs including insurance, maintenance of the machine and truck, and salaries.

“This year, we will concentrate not only on Dar Al Hanan, but also the Mobile Mammography Unit, because it needs a lot of funds to keep it going,” said Dr Wahid Al Kharusi, OCA’s new president.

“If we don’t raise this money, we will have to close the doors of the Mobile Mammography Unit and a lot of people will suffer,” he added.

To tackle the funding problem, Nasser Al Azri, OCA’s Secretary General, volunteered to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, with the aim of raising funds to keep the Mobile Mammography Unit operating. Al Azri will need seven days to climb the 50 kilometers to the peak, along with stopping six times.

Al Azri will plant a flag at each stop bearing OCA’s logo, including the sponsors’ logos. The

higher the flag is placed will indicate what level the sponsor has contributed towards, with the diamond sponsor having the flag planted at the mountain’s peak.

“The idea is not only to climb, but also to create awareness about OCA and to raise funds through sponsors, and people individually sponsoring him,” said Al Kharusi.

Al Azri noted, “I’ll climb to show the community that nothing is impossible, and that reflects also on the cancer patients, that curing cancer is not impossible and together we can spread awareness about early diagnosis, as well as educate people about early diagnosis.”

Al Azri is set to climb the mountain at the end of July, and OCA is currently looking for sponsors to fund the expedition. He is also training with a cross fit team to assure he will be fit enough to handle the climb.

When asked how much OCA is

Prevention Cancer prevention is one of the main issues OCA is looking at solving, and Al Kharusi is encouraging all people to be checked for cancer earlier in their lives to assure earlier treatment.

Al Kharusi revealed that since 2009, the Mobile Mammography Unit screened over 15,000 women, and a significant number of them learned of positive test results. Those who were diagnosed with cancer were immediately assigned a consultant and began treatment. “Cancer is growing and costs a lot of money to even create awareness. It costs a lot of money to operate equipment to diagnose patients with cancer,” said Al Kharusi.

“If you look at this region, especially in East Africa, cancer is increasing and people are dying because of the lack of diagnosis and lack of treatment,” he added.

He reiterated that the goal is to create prevention and raise awareness about prevention, because “it is one way of defeating cancer”.

“Prevention is the only answer for low and middle income countries,” added Al Kharusi.

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ALAWI TAKES PART IN GCC-UK MEETING

Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, minister responsible for foreign affairs took part in the 5th ministerial meeting for strategic dialogue between the Gulf Cooperation Council and the United Kingdom in Jeddah yesterday. -ONA

OMAN

Regular petrol not all that cheap in long run As austerity bites, and with petrol prices no longer subsidised and expected to rise, more and more people are opting for

PROCEEDINGS

Shura members shield teachers on ‘pampered’ remark

the cheaper regular petrol, unmindful of

Fuel prices in Oman

the fact that it causes

CONSUMPTION JAN-MAR

more pollution and

Regular

Super

MUSCAT: Shura Council members defended teachers in the Sultanate after a member called them ‘pampered’.

Some 90 per cent of Oman’s Ministry of Education budget goes to paying teachers’ salary, according to the ministry, but Tawfiq Al Lawati, a Shura member, described teachers in Oman as “pampered” because they have 110 days of holiday per year.

However, Amer Al Mashrifi, another member, hit back at Al Lawati, saying he would understand hardship of being a teacher if he worked for an hour.

This exchange occurred on Sunday during a heated session at the Majlis Al Shura, which heard a set of controversial questions asked by the members to Madiha Al Shaibany, the minister of education.

“Ninety per cent of the ministry’s budget is for teachers’ salaries, 5.8 per cent for school transportation, and 4.2 per cent goes for test processes,” she said.

“Teachers in Oman are being pampered, as the number of their holidays is 110 out of 360 days. I think this is unacceptable,” Al Lawati said.

“If you tried teaching for an hour, you will find it a difficult task,” Al Mashrifi replied.

The minister explained that GROWTH

Nizwa Grand Mall opens Times News Service NIZWA: Nizwa Grand Mall was opened yesterday in the Wilayat of Nizwa in the Governorate of A’Dakhiliyah under the auspices of Mohammed bin Nasser Al Rasbi, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Defence.

Director General of the Ministry of Defence Pension Fund gave a speech in which he emphasised the Fund’s own interest to give priority to the implementation of this project to the small and medium enterprises.

Board Chairman of Amjad Group Holding (the developer of the project), delivered a speech in which he said that the project is distinguished for the existence of the Omani national staff in all of its stages.

A presentation was then given about the stages of building the mall. The sponsor of opening ceremony accompanied by the attendees toured the mall.

He also laid the foundation stone for the second phase of development of the project, which will include hotel, offices building, and multipurpose hall, in addition to a residential building.

Secretary General of the Ministry of Defence stated: “This mall (Nizwa Grand Mall) is one of the most important real estate investments for the Ministry of Defence Pension Fund, as the fund has adopted a balanced investment policy to diversify sources of income, and the establishment of this centre is also within the general policy of the real estate investment, where the fund seeks to establish real estate projects in all governorates of the Sultanate to activate the economic, tourism and service activities in those governorates.”-ONA

5.8 per cent of the ministry’s annual budget is dedicated to school transportation, and 4.2 per cent goes for test processes.

Khalid bin Yahya Al Farei, head of the education committee at the Majlis Al Shura, urged the ministry to control the “big” rise in its budget, which jumped, according to him, from half a billion Omani rials to more than one billion in the last few years.

Al Farei also criticised an “army” of 27 advisers who, together, receive OMR60,000 per month, as well as 140 experts in the sector, who are paid some OMR230,000 in monthly salaries. He also advised the minster to force some of these people into retirement.

However, the minister replied, saying that the experts cannot be retired, as their expertise is vital to the ministry. She also announced that a new law has been passed which prevents teachers from resigning during the school year, pointing out that the number of resignations has not increased from previous years.

Another Shura member questioned the reason behind having mixed gender public schools in Al Wusta governorate, and the minister said that it is because of the small population in that governorate. The session will continue for the second and final day on Monday.

(In baisas per litre)

Diesel

adversely affects

Regular

4,576

4,356 4,245

160 145

140

fahadnews@timesofoman.com reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Consumption of cheaper, regular petrol has tripled in Oman during the first quarter of this year, and experts have warned there may be long lasting consequences - for your car and the planet.

As austerity bites, and with petrol prices no longer subsidised and expected to rise slightly in the coming days, more and more people are opting for cheaper fuel.

“The consumption of regular petrol (M90) has gone up and the consumption of super grade (M95) and diesel has come down,” Tahir Al Junaibi, a Majlis Al Shura member, said.

The statistics shared by the Shura member reveal that in 2015 Q1 342,324 litres of regular petrol were sold, in 2016 during the same period, 1,210,315 litres of the fuel were sold. “In the case of M95, in 2015, 5,366,732 litres were sold, in 2016, 4,576,236 were sold,” the Shura member added.

The statistics also reveal that the consumption of diesel has gone down from 4,355,510 litres to 4,244,878 litres while comparing 2015 Q1 and 2016 Q1.

130

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

120

149

Diesel 166

145

130 F

M

A

M

Source: Tahir Al Junaibi , Times of Oman

According to a senior official at a fuel sales company, removal of price regulations has resulted in the increase in the consumption of regular petrol.

“After the removal, to save a few baisas, people are now opting for regular petrol. This is not good for vehicles,” Rajeev KR, the senior official at Siraj Al Jazeera Projects, a fuel sales company in Oman, said.

“Across Oman, we are seeing that people prefer regular to super,” the official added.

Mohammed Khalid, the country manager of Descon Engineering, an oil and gas firm in Oman, said that regular petrol is not refined like super one at the stage of production and so it will emit more gas and carbon.

“When a vehicle’s engine is running, several different types of gas and particles are emitted that can have detrimental effects on the environment. Of particular concern to the environment are carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases to name a few. These emissions will pollute the climate and speed up

163

161

146 146

137

1,210 342

158

153

150

FAHAD AL GHADANI REJIMON K

Super

170

5,367

the vehicle Times News Service

PRICES 2016

(In thousands of litres)

F

M

A

M

F

M

A

M

Graphics

climate change,” Khalid said.

“The emission from vehicles using regular petrol will affect the air quality,” Khalid said while adding that in the long run it is not good to substitute regular petrol with super grade if the vehicle manual states super. According to Khalid, motorists are forced to use regular only because there is no other option.

Meanwhile, an environmental expert in Oman said that it is preferable to use super petrol in cars because it will cause less harm to the environment when compared to regular.

“Super petrol doesn’t emit much carbon while used in vehicle as it is refined at the production stage itself. So, it doesn’t pollute environment with carbon emission and speed up the climate change,” Hameed Sulaiman, assistant professor of environmental science at Sultan Qaboos University, told Times of Oman.

“Regular petrol can cause more damage to environment when compared to super grade ones,” the expert said, adding that he would

advise people to go for super to save the planet.

An automobile expert said that certain components are added to increase the octane level to better the performance of the vehicle by avoiding knocking.

“Majority of the vehicles plying in Oman need only fuel having octane value between 87 and 92.

Here in Oman we get M90, which is good enough for the vehicles.

There is no need to go for super,” the automobile expert said.

According to the latest data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), Oman recorded a whopping 166 per cent year-on-year increase in the production of regular (90) petrol during the first two months of 2016, with output surging to 1.03 million barrels compared to 388,100 barrels produced last year.

Super (95) petrol logged a 2.1 per cent growth over the period to touch 3.43 million barrels as against 3.36 million barrels in 2015.

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MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

OMAN INDIAN SCHOOL JALAN

INDIAN SCHOOL IBRI

Excellent result Times News Service MUSCAT: Indian School Jalan students have come out with flying colors in the CBSE Class 10 examinations with cent percent success. CGPA- 10 has been secured by two students, Sanjana Shyam and MeghnaVinod. Out of 11 students, six students secured

Students come out with flying colours Times News Service

A1 and five students secured A2 grade. The SMC, Principal, teachers, parents and students appreciated the passed out students for their stunning achievement. The remarkable performance by the second batch of class 10 is indeed a matter of joy and pride for the students as well as the teachers.

MUSCAT: Students of Indian School Ibri have done proud to their school by achieving outstanding cent percent results in the CBSE Class X Exam held in March 2016.

Out of twenty eight students appeared in the exams, four them have secured A1 grade in all subjects with the Cumulative Grade

Point Average (CGPA) perfect 10 and another four with CGPA 9.8.

The toppers of the batch, who secured A1 grade in all subjects are : Miss. Kusum Ramachandra, Mast.

Rajith Krishnan, Miss. Reshma

Chandran and Miss. Sherin Shaji.

Four students, Mast. Ali Haider, Miss Arya S Kurup, Miss. Hepseba Scariah and Thanuja K Tharunbos missed their perfect CGPA just in one subject. They secured CGPA: 9.8.

Out of twenty eight students appeared in the exam, 16 of them secured CGPA 9 and above, 9 with CGPA 8-9 and 3 with CGPA 7-8.

Altogether there are 66 A1

grades and 52 A2 grades this year.

All the students of this year’s batch had opted IT as the sixth compulsory subject.

The School Management Committee and the Principal congratulated the students for their commendable performance, parents for their cooperation and the teachers for their sincere efforts and dedication in guiding the students to achieve this great success.

INDIAN SCHOOL SUR

Tremendous performance by students Times News Service MUSCAT: Indian School Sur students have put up a tremendous performance at the CBSE grade 10 examination , this year.

41 students appeared for the examination and all of them have come out with flying colours.

12 students have achieved A1 in all the subjects with a CGPA 10.

They are :Arundhati Panickar, Sakshi Mahesh Yadav, Shwetha Singh, Ranjana Reghunath, Jayadeep Babu, Shihabudheen Mohammed, Sarun Satish, Ritya Jibu

Palamattom, Karthik Rajesh, Ashley Mariam Vincent, Pranjal Jagdish Patil and Sadde Sreelakshmi Prasanna. “My dream has come true !”, Jayadeep Babu, one of the

students who was rewarded for his dedicated hard work.

It has added sweetness to the accomplishments of the fruitful academic year, commented a teacher.

I N D I A N S C H O O L M U S C AT

121 students score 10 CGPA

Times News Service MUSCAT: The students of Indian School Muscat have once again made their school proud by securing cent percent result in Class X CBSE Board Examination for the year 2015-16.

A total of 547 students appeared for the examination and have displayed a sterling performance.

It is indeed an incredible achievement this year as 121 students have brilliantly secured a perfect 10 CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) and the

school is delighted to acclaim the names of the toppers.

Indian School Muscat proudly approbates the phenomenal rise in its subject toppers as well.

A magnificent number of 233 students have scored A1 in English, followed by 213 students getting the A1 grade in Social Science, 200 students secured A1 in Mathematics while 191 students have got A1 in Science. The School said that overall 217 students scored A1 in Hindi, French, Malayalam, and Arabic.

The Management, Principal Srinivas K. Naidu, Vice Princi-

pal, Senior Section, Deep Wilson, Assistant Vice Principal, Geeta Chauhan and the staff congratulated the students for their brilliance, hard work and high standards of performance.

Commendable performance The Principal Srinivas K. Naidu while talking about the result, said: “ISM rejoices at this epoch making victory of its students and gratifies in the commendable performance of the students and the diligent work of the teachers who have carved a niche and added glory to the school.”

INDIAN SCHOOL AL SEEB

Stupendous achievement in CBSE

Times News Service MUSCAT: Indian School Al Seeb students fared well in the Central Board of Secondary Education, Class X examination.

244 students had appeared in the exam and the school stands on a high pedestal with a 100 per cent pass result.

Fifty-three students achieved A1 grade in all five subjects with a CGPA of 10. The students who achieved A1 in all subjects are: Achyut Sai V, Adithya Raj M, Afifa Rida A, Aniruddh G, Charvi Srivastava., Gayathri Krishnan., Labuni Chowdhary, Mohd. Aakif, Mohd. Uzair, Nabeel Ahsan,

Neethika Shinoj, Poorvi Saxena, Royston Parambil, Sejal M Kulkarni, Shalini Pandit, Sharon Velda, Shaun Jerald, Siddhartha Kishore, Uday Kiran, Abhirami Ajith Kumar, Akash Mathew, Alen Joy, Allwin Vincent, Anitta John, Anupama Sreejakumary, Ayisha Thasnim, Ehsan Abdu S., Jaseena Jaleel, Jerin Varghese, Jeron Joseph, Joel Biju, Joshny Mathew, Kiran P V, Krishnanjali, Maya Mathew, Mishal Mussaddique, Mohd. Yasar, Noel K Jose, Rumaisa Mohd., Saba Shaji, Saira Anzar, Sana Shaji, Sen V Alex, Shaun Vincent, Shaziah Shaheer,Shehnas Sayed, Sona Elsa John, Swathi Sathee-

san, Amal Ameer Sheikh, Saabin Mohd., Sidharth, Raminder Kaur and Muneeja.

All the students acknowledged the valuable guidance of their teachers under the stewardship of the principal and the viceprincipals and thanked the school management for their unstinted support. The parents gave the credit of this exemplary result to the school’s academic ambience and hard work of students and the dedication of teachers. The president of the School Management Committee, Ravi Jayanthi congratulated the staff members for ensuring such a stupendous success of the students.

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

A7

OMAN AV I AT I O N

A1 Domestic links to international flights < FROM

“When the world economy is not great, you would expect travel to drop but, surprisingly, from the first quarter, the number of people coming in and out of Thailand has grown between 15 to 18 per cent, so these modern generations do travel.

New segment “Every time a low cost airline opens in the market, it creates a new segment. There is competition, but we expect it to get bigger. There is a study, according to which when a budget airline opens, the market grows by 30 per cent,” he added.

On Thai AirAsia X, passengers can take advantage of connecting flights within Thailand, and also internationally.

“Apart from direct flights to Bangkok, AirAsia offers a network in Thailand and throughout the region, with flights to over 20 destinations in Thailand and 29 international destinations,” he added. Buranasari thinks the same figures will be seen for medical travel, as he expects it will not be affected by the current economic crisis.

“I think it will be the same as before. Medical tourism in Thailand

is known for its high standards and low cost, so I think it will still be attractive. What is great for Omanis is that Thai second tier hospitals have been upgraded to become very good, so the Omani customer will have a lot more choices.”

Apart from direct flights to Bangkok, AirAsia’s Fly-Thru transit service also allows passengers to easily fly to other cities in Thailand via Bangkok Don Mueang Airport.

Fly-Thru destinations Fly-Thru destinations include Thailand’s world famous beaches in Krabi and Phuket and the beautiful northern cities of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Passengers can check their baggage to their final destinations.

Thai AirAsia X will also be the only airline connecting Muscat to and from Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport, which is located closer to Bangkok’s downtown area.

The airline will service the three flights per week using an Airbus A330 aircraft with 365 economy class seats and 12 Premium Flatbeds. The inaugural flight from Muscat to Bangkok’s Don Mueang airport will depart Muscat on June 28.

New firm formed to push innovation and research The approval came during the second meeting of the The Research Council Board for 2016, chaired by His Highness Sayyid Shihab bin Tariq Al Said, Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan and Chairman of TRC

Times News Service MUSCAT: The creation of a company to manage the Innovation Park Muscat (IPM) was approved

by The Research Council Board on Sunday.

The approval came during the second meeting of the TRC Board for 2016, chaired by His Highness Sayyid Shihab bin Tariq Al Said, Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan and Chairman of TRC. The meeting, held at the headquarters of TRC in Al Othaiba,discussed a number of reports submitted to the board, and approved projects and proposals that are expected to expand TRC’s

efforts in supporting research and innovation in the Sultanate.

The board, in principle, approved the establishment of a company for the management of the Innovation Park Muscat (IPM), with the aim of determining the best governance and management model of the IPM, in accordance with the nature of science parks.

The IPM will be the home for TRC buildings and also contain workshops and business incubators, as well as specialised centres.

It focuses on four research areas, including energy, health, water and food. It also contains land that was allocated for the investment in research and innovation fields.

The TRC Board also approved a model for the management of research centres, after discussing the available options for the governance and management of those research centres that have been established by TRC, such as the Oman Animal and Plants Genetic Resources Centre (OAPGRC) and the Institute of Advanced Technology Integration (IATI).

Additionally, in a bid to convert students’ graduation projects into start-up businesses in the Information and Communications Technologiessector, the TRC Board approved a challenge programme which focuses onsupporting students’ graduation projects through transferring them into promising start-up businesses, in collaboration with the private sector.

In addition, the board supported a proposal on finding strategic partnerships to enable the operation of Oman Research and Education Network (OMREN), Virtual Library and the National Digital Repository, in collaboration with the private sector. OMREN aims at developing the level and competence of research, education and electronic scientific communications. OMREN is considered

a gateway to similar global networks. It functions as a high speed and competence network for connecting research and academic institutions.

Additionally, the TRC Board approved, in principle,a proposal submitted on the execution of the Annual Research Forum (ARF), now in its third year, that also includes awarding winners of the National Research Award (NRA), based on available allocated financial resources.

TheARF is held annually with the aim of providing an environment for knowledge transfers and expertise exchanges among researchers, in addition to the announcement of NRA winners.

The TRC Board also approved the report of the 9th meeting of the International Advisory Board.

TRC Board members were also briefed on specialized reports on the progress of work of the Chair of Nanotechnology for Water Desalination at Sultan Qaboos University, and its achievements during past years.

The TRC Board also followedup on the implementation of its decisions made during its first meeting last February.

R A M A D A N FA S T I N G

< FROM

A1

Avoid sweets, fatty foods; consume fruits and vegetables

Dr Singhvi noted that during Ramadan, the hospital often treats patients complaining of low blood pressure or high blood pressure, hypoglycemia, mild heart attacks, over-eating, vomiting, dizziness and tiredness.

“Gastritis (inflammation of the lining of the stomach) is also visible in such patients. It’s often because of their eating sweets and fatty foods.

“We should avoid these and instead consume fruits, vegetables

and other healthy diets,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr V. C. P. Mohamed, Internal Medicine Specialist at Atlas Hospital, said that people might eat Sahoor (pre-dawn meal) as late as possible to shorten the period between the eating and fasting time.

“People who are fasting must avoid eating salty and fatty foods.

Over-eating could lead to gastritis. This happens normally when people consume lots of food immediately after Iftaar

(post-dusk meal),” he said.

Dr Mohamed also called for avoiding driving before Iftaar, saying, “People could be speeding in the rush to reach home. At this time of day, their blood pressure could be low and they could be dehydrated, as well.

“This could lead to indecision and possibly accidents.”

Dr Basheer, a senior internist at Badr Al Samaa Hospital, noted that road accidents are common before Iftaar. “It’s very common.

Before Iftaar, people try to join Iftaar parties and end up speeding, resulting in accidents,” he said.

Talking to Times of Oman last week, Daryl Hardy, chief executive officer of the non-profit Safety First, argued that Ramadan could have an effect on people’s focus and decision making while driving.

“It’s long hours of summer fasting.

Eat foods that include lots of fiber.

Avoid fried or sweet foods. We should break fast with light foods first, and then after an hour have

proper food. Try avoiding heavy food immediately after Iftaar,” Dr Basheer urged.

He said that during Ramadan the hospital gets to see lots of patients complaining of abdominal acidity, bloating, headaches, and constipation.

“We are preparing for Ramadan, and have been giving general health education information to people. We are also providing talks to medical practitioners in our hospital about fast-related

health issues,” he added.

Many private hospital authorities say they have small blood banks, but rely heavily on the government’s central blood bank in Bausher neighbourhood.

“We have readily available samples of one or two common groups.

The rest we get from the central bank. But the availability depends on donors, as well,” noted Dr Singhvi of Apollo Hospital, who also asked for pre-Ramadan blood donations by the public.

A8

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

REGION

Under the Jordan’s constitutional rules the election must be held within four months.

M I L I TA N T S ’ S T R O N G H O L D

Forces backed by unity government seek to encircle IS-held city of Sirte MISRATA (LIBYA): Forces loyal to Libya’s UN-backed unity government say they aim to encircle Sirte, IS’ stronghold in Libya, having moved to within 15km (10 miles) of the city centre.

The forces, composed of fighters mostly from the western city of Misrata, are now closer to Sirte than they have been for nearly a year. Last summer Misrata brigades withdrew from Sirte and IS took full control there.

Western states are hoping the unity government can bring together Libya’s competing factions to defeat IS, though the new government has struggled to secure support beyond its power base in the west of the country.

Earlier this month IS surged forward towards Misrata, which lies about 240 km northwest of Sirte, taking control of the town of Abu Grain and a number of villages and checkpoints in the area before being pushed back.

Full control Military spokesman Mohamed Al Gasri said that after advancing along the road west of Sirte on Friday, government-backed forces were seeking full control of a steam plant about 15 km from central Sirte, as well as a road leading south from Sirte to Waddan.

“The next step is to encircle Sirte, and then we will ask the residents to try to leave,” he said.

“We don’t want to enter now because of the residents. But if it

becomes a battlefield we can enter within hours.”

Misrata brigades have suffered some of their heaviest losses for months in recent clashes. One single truck bombing killed 32 people last week, and some 75 fighters have been killed and more than 350 injured since the start of May, Gasri said. He also said that dozens of IS fighters had died, and the Misrata military operations room said on Saturday that these included a senior North Africa commander for the group called Khaled Al Shayab.

On the road south of Misrata burnt-out cars can be seen at the sites of more than half a dozen suicide bombings or mine explosions, and the government-backed forces are still struggling to de-mine areas where IS advanced.

For now, the most visible forces on the government-backed side are young fighters with mismatched uniforms, pick-up trucks - resembling the rebel forces that fought in the NATO-backed campaign to topple Muammar Gaddafi five years ago.

About 50 km from Sirte troops are building earth and sand barriers on the coastal road as a defence against further bombings.

Gasri said last year’s withdrawal from Sirte would not be repeated.

“This time it’s different because there is an internationally recognised government that has pledged to support the army to fight Daesh (IS).” — Reuters

HORSE RACE FESTIVAL

A Lebanese woman competes during a horse race festival on the coast shore of the city of Sidon, Lebanon, on Sunday.

— AFP

King Abdullah names new prime minister Jordan’s King accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour before

NEW ROLE: Veteran politician Hani Mulqi. – Reuters file

appointing Hani Mulqi as caretaker prime minister

AMMAN: Jordan’s King Abdullah appointed veteran politician Hani Mulqi as caretaker prime minister on Sunday after dissolving parliament as its four-year term nears its end, and charged

him with organising new elections by October.

The king accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour before appointing Mulqi by royal decree. Mulqi has held senior government posts in successive administrations.

Under the constitutional rules the election must be held within four months. Jordan traditionally votes according to tribal and

family allegiances but parliament amended the electoral laws in March in a move government sources and political analysts say will lead to more candidates from political parties vying for votes.

The analysts say the tribal lawmakers who dominated the last parliament had tried to resist changes which might undermine their influence, under a system that still favours sparsely populated tribal areas which benefit most from state patronage.

Jordan’s main political opposition comes from the Muslim Brotherhood movement but it faces increasing legal curbs on its activities, leaving mostly pro-monarchy parties and some independent hardliners and politicians to compete in these elections, the political analysts say.

The Brotherhood wants sweeping political reforms. Its political arm in Jordan, the Islamic Action Front, represents many disen-

franchised Jordanians of Palestinian origin, who are in the majority in the population of seven million and live mostly in urban areas. Analysts say it could be difficult for the Brotherhood, which has operated legally in Jordan for decades, to participate in the election after the authorities closed many of its offices and encouraged a splinter group to legally challenge the main movement’s licence to operate.

Western diplomats and independent politicians say the absence of the group, which has strong grassroots support in urban centres, could undermine the legitimacy of the election.

Western donors have pushed Jordan’s authorities to widen political representation to stem radicalisation among alienated and unemployed young people in poor overcrowded areas. Hundreds of them have already joined militants in Syria and Iraq. — Reuters

CRASHED FLIGHT

Specialised deep search ship to hunt for EgyptAir plane PARIS: Egyptian authorities hired a deep ocean survey and recovery company to join the hunt for wreckage of the EgyptAir jet that went down over the eastern Mediterranean last week as new satellite evidence emerged to help narrow down the likely crash site.

Egypt’s civil aviation ministry signed the agreement on Friday with Deep Ocean Search Ltd, according to a statement from France’s air accidents bureau, BEA, which is part of the investigation. A DOS’s vessel will join the Laplace, a French Navy ship set to arrive in the area over the weekend and deploying specialist technology to pick up telltale “pings” from the Airbus Group SE A320’s black-box flight recorders.

Distress signals Meanwhile, European and US satellites captured emergency distress signals from the doomed EgyptAir Flight 804 minutes after it fell off radar on May 19, the US’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said on Friday. A device known as an emergency locator transmitter, or ELT, began radioing an automatic distress message at 2:36am local time, Lieutenant Jason Wilson, an operations support officer at NOAA, said in an e-mail.

That could help indicate a crash area with a 5-kilometre (3.1 mile) radius.

Regarded as key to determining what brought down Flight MS804 while en route from Paris to Cairo with 66 people on board, the data and voice recorders — actually coloured orange — are detectable only from within a few miles, and are likely to run out of power in about three weeks.

The Egyptian-led committee that’s investigating the downed

MYSTERY: Specialist technology will be deployed to pick up

telltale “pings” from the Airbus Group SE A320’s black-box flight recorders. – AFP/Marine Nationale/File

plane has begun studying information from Greek air traffic control about the accident and more information on the radar that tracked the plane before it went down “is expected to be received,” the BEA said in a statement. The BEA is involved because Airbus is based in Toulouse and the flight left from Paris.

DOS is based in Mauritius, staffed by veterans of the French Navy and has recovered precious metals from a ship sunk in World War II in the mid-Atlantic at a depth of 5,150 metres (about 17,000 feet), the company said on its website. The area where the EgyptAir flight went down is thought to be more than 3,000 metres deep. The Laplace, named after celebrated French mathematician and astronomer PierreSimon Laplace, will carry three Detector 6000 underwater listening systems supplied by the Alseamar unit of Paris-based search specialist Alcen, a veteran of aircrash searches that also works with defence and oil-industry clients. Two officials from the BEA are travelling on the Laplace.

The probes, shaped like tor-

pedoes and dragged beneath the ship, have an “extremely long detection range,” according to Alseamar, being able to detect pings from black boxes 5 kilometres away. Egypt said on Thursday the deployment of more specialist gear would “help speed up” the search effort. Among previous projects, Alseamar worked on the recovery of the black boxes from a Flash Airlines Boeing Co. 737 that crashed into the Red Sea shortly after takeoff from Sharm Al Sheikh in 2004, killing all 148 passengers and crew. Last year’s loss of an Airbus A321 operated

by Russia’s Metrojet, apparently blown up over Sinai by a terrorist bomb, killing 224, posed relatively fewer challenges, with the flight recorders easily found in the desert landscape.

The Egyptian-led investigation team will still need to narrow down the location of the MS804 wreck to bring the French technology to bear. Previous attempts to find the jet using a submarine were hampered by the lack of a well-defined search area and the depth of the water where it seems to have come down. — Bloomberg

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INDIA

Japanese keen on investing in India’s infrastructure sector, says Jaitley Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said many investors including SoftBank are keen to invest in infrastructure sector to be part of the

UPBEAT: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Soft Bank CEO Masayoshi Son in Tokyo on Sunday. - PTI

Indian growth story

TOKYO: Seeking to woo investors from Asia’s second biggest economy, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Sunday began his six-day Japan visit as he met Masayoshi Son, the

CEO of Japanese telecom giant SoftBank Group, which is eyeing “one of the biggest” investments in solar power sector in India.

Jaitley said many investors including SoftBank are keen to invest in infrastructure sector to be

part of the Indian growth story.

“There are people who want to participate in infrastructure growth story. For example, SoftBank meeting we just had, they are looking at one of the biggest investments in solar power already,”

he said after meeting Son. In June last year, SoftBank announced it was forming a joint venture with Bharti Enterprises and Taiwan’s Foxconn Technology Group to invest about $20 billion in renewable energy in India.

The joint venture would aim to generate 20 gigawatts of electricity. “They have made considerable headway and have identified location. It will probably be one of the largest investment in those areas,” Jaitley said.

The Japanese telecom and Internet giant has made a string of tech investments in India, investing $2 billion in the past two years.

SoftBank is looking at accelerating the pace of investments in the future. “India has a great future... we are interested in investing for Internet companies also for solar energy. We would make a strong commitment,” Son said.

Son had previously said that In-

‘ V I K A S PA RV ’

Won’t let nation go on wrong path even if some things remain undone: Modi DAVANGERE (Karnataka): In an apparent reply those questioning his government’s performance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said his two-year dispensation had initiated over 700 schemes and even if some tasks remain undone, “I will not let the nation go on the wrong path”.

Addressing a public meeting here as part of ‘vikas parv’ (development festival) on completion of two years of his government, he asserted that he would “never go on the path of sins” as he charged that the previous government had “yielded” to pressure from various lobbies, including diesel and petrol ones.

Slamming the critics who “started questioning his work” even when he had not seen my office properly, Modi said his government’s programmes are mostly for the benefit of farmers and poor people, besides ending the role of middlemen, including in jobs.

“My government had not completed even one week in office and

WARM WELCOME: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with BJP work-

ers on his arrival at the airport in Hubli on Sunday. - PTI

some people started questioning its work. We were asked to give account. There are some people in this country who talk of democracy but don’t believe in the government elected by the people. They cannot digest (NDA coming to power). They wonder where from

I came. I have come from this land, from among you,” he said.

“Whatever I have done during the last two years has been for the welfare of the people only. Some people say Modi does not do big things,” he said.

Accusing the previous govern-

R A I LWAY S ’ S T R AT E G Y

Trial run of Spanish Talgo train with speed up to 115 kmph conducted NEW DELHI: The trial of Spanish train Talgo, the lighter and faster vehicle whose speed goes up to 115 km per hour, was conducted between Bareilly and Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh as part of the Railways’ strategy to increase the speed of trains.

“It was a smooth ride,” said a senior Indian railways official after nine Talgo coaches were hauled by a 4,500 HP diesel engine on the 90-km line for the first trial run. The train left Bareilly at 9.05am, moved at a speed ranging between 80-115 km per hour, and reached Moradabad at 10.15 am, the official said.

As of now, the Delhi-Mumbai Rajdhani Express runs at an average speed of 85km per hour. Besides reducing travel time, Talgo’s lighter trains consume 30 per cent less energy. The nine-coach Talgo train consists of two Executive Class cars, four Chair Cars, a cafeteria, a power car and a tail-end coach for staff and equipment.

Hamid Akhtar, Executive Di-

LIGHTER AND FASTER VEHICLE: The Spanish train Talgo arrives at Moradabad Railway Station during its first trial run between Bareilly and Moradabad on Sunday. - PTI

rector of Railways’ Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) who was on the Talgo train while on way back from Moradabad, said, “there will be three more such runs” before the success or failure could be assessed.

“It is difficult to say anything about the success or failure of the trial... We will record the timings and other parameters during the journey (in further runs)...

The data will be analysed and then only we will be able to say

anything. Nevertheless it was a smooth ride,” he said. Besides the officials, the coaches were filled with sand bags. There will be trial with empty coaches as well. After the trial run on the BareillyMoradabad line, it will be tried on Rajdhani route between Mathura and Palwal for 40 days with speed up to 180 km per hour. The Talgo train coaches are lightweight and designed in a way that it can run on curves without decelerating the speed, the official said. - PTI

ment of “extending big favours” to few people, Modi asked, “should I commit the same sin? Should I go on the wrong path? When you have blessed me, there is no need for me to go on that path of sin.

Even if one or two things remain undone, I will not let the nation go on the wrong path.”

His remarks come against the backdrop of continuous criticism and questioning by Congress and some other parties over his government’s performance. He enlisted a number of programmes initiated in various fields and said a “change” can be felt in the country and that he wanted to take the country to new heights for which he required people’s support. He mentioned various schemes for the farmers like Crop Insurance and Irrigation scheme, talked about programmes like opening of bank accounts for the poor and insurance schemes for them as well as his endeavour to give LPG connections to five crore poor people over the next three years. - PTI

dia’s market is poised for massive growth, making it an important destination for investors. SoftBank has in the past two years made a string of tech investments in India, including $627 million in online-retailing marketplace Snapdeal and leading a $210 million funding round in Ola Cabs.

It paid $200 million for a 35 per cent stake in InMobi, an Indian mobile-advertising network, starting in 2011. SoftBank also has a joint venture with Bharti Group, Bharti SoftBank, the investments of which include the mobile application Hike Messenger. Its other investments include real-estate website Housing.com, hotelbooking app Oyo Rooms and Grofers. Son had previously predicted that India’s e-commerce industry would become a $500 billion business in the next 10 years.

SoftBank, which owns one of Japan’s biggest mobile car-

riers and a controlling stake in US-based Sprint Corp, has been moving quickly to expand its Internet and media holdings. As the largest shareholder in Alibaba Group Holding Ltd, the Chinese e-commerce company, SoftBank has ample resources to deploy for acquisitions.

During the visit, Jaitley will also call on Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Meeting with Abe is planned for Monday when he will also attend the 22nd International Conference on ‘The Future of Asia’ organised by Nikkei Inc. Jaitley, on May 31, will meet Osamu Suzuki, Chairman of Suzuki Motor, the biggest Japanese investor in automobile sector in India.

On May 31, he would also participate in ‘The Future of Asia’ conference and will deliver keynote address at the roundtable on National Investment & Infrastructure Fund (NIIF). - PTI

A10

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

INDIA FINANCIAL IRREGULARITIES

Probe agencies to approach Interpol afresh in Lalit Modi case NEW DELHI: Indian investigative agencies will make a fresh bid to obtain the much-delayed Interpol arrest warrant against former IPL Chairman Lalit Modi after the Chennai Police recently submitted that it is actively pursuing its criminal probe against the former cricket czar and others.

Officials said the Investigating Officer (IO) of the Crime Branch of Chennai police has informed the Finance Ministry and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) that it had registered an FIR against Modi and seven others in 2010 on charges of alleged financial irregularities on a complaint by former Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President N. Srinivasan which is “under investigation” and evidence is being gathered.

It is likely that the IO of Chennai police would also approach a local court to seek Modi’s presence in the case as being sought by the ED in its money laundering probe.

This 2010 FIR became the basis

for the ED to register the ‘predicate offence’ of money laundering against Modi in 2012.

After registering the offence, the anti-money laundering agency had sought an international Red Corner Notice (RCN) and arrest warrant against him from the Interpol.

The agencies, sources said, will make a renewed effort to make Modi join the probe being carried out by the ED and Chennai Police.

Status report The Union government, during the recently concluded Parliament session, had said it was awaiting an investigation status report from Chennai Police in order to respond to queries raised by the Interpol in connection with the money laundering case against Modi.

Minister of State for Finance Jayant Sinha had, while replying to a question related to ED’s request to Interpol for issue of the RCN against Modi, said “certain queries were raised by the Commission for

the Control of Interpol Files”.

“Further, a letter to the predicate agency (Chennai Police) has been sent for obtaining investigation status of the scheduled offence.

The reply from predicate agency is awaited for responding to the queries raised by the Commission for the Control of Interpol Files,” he had said in a written reply.

The ED headquarters here too has been regularly writing to the Chennai and Tamil Nadu Police brass seeking the status of the case and expediting the probe being conducted by them.

Officials said after a request to extradite Modi from the United Kingdom was recently sent to the Ministry of External Affairs by the ED, a similar effort will be made before the Interpol, through the CBI, to get the long-awaited RCN notified.

The ED had first approached Interpol in August last year for notifying an RCN against Modi but it kept delaying acting on the request

with a string of queries from Indian investigators regarding the need for a red corner notice, with the latest being seeking status of the probe being conducted by the Chennai Police.

The ED wants Modi to join investigation in a case relating to T-20 Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket tournament after it registered an FIR against him and others in 2012.

The central agency has invoked PMLA besides sections 420 (cheating) and 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of IPC to probe if BCCI-IPL and the exchequer had been cheated in the award of telecast rights for the T-20 tournament in 2009. Modi has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. - PTI

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MONEY LAUNDERING PROBE: The Enforcement Directorate wants Lalit Modi to join investigation in a case relating to T-20 Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket tournament after it registered an FIR against him and others in 2012. - PTI file photo

‘BJP to go it alone in Uttar Pradesh assembly polls’ Union Minister Mahesh Sharma said

We will not have any alliance with any of the parties, whether it is Lok Dal (INLD) or any other party. No pre-poll, no post-poll alliance of any sort Mahesh Sharma

BJP’s focus during the campaign in Uttar Pradesh polls will be on development, good governance and rooting out corruption and not the Ram temple

NEW DELHI: The BJP will contest Uttar Pradesh assembly polls on its own, Union Minister Mahesh Sharma, who played a significant role in the party’s stunning performance in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections in the state, said.

As Bharatiya Janata Party shifts focus to the assembly polls in UP due next year after its resounding victory in Assam, Sharma said party leaders are considering the elections in the politically crucial state as a “special task that has to be accomplished”.

Sharma, who was rewarded with a ministerial berth for his hard work in the Lok Sabha polls in UP, said BJP’s focus during the cam-

Union minister

paign will be on development, good governance and rooting out corruption and not the Ram temple.

He said the party would not like to make Ram temple a political issue. “Construction of Ram temple is the wish of millions of people as a matter of faith. We do not want to make it a political issue. It is not on our political agenda. But people of this country want a Ram temple at Ayodhya. We want to do it (construct the temple) either by consensus mode or verdict by court of law,” said Sharma.

He exuded confidence that BJP will get over 265 out of 403 seats.

“We will not have any alliance

with any of the parties, whether it is Lok Dal (INLD) or any other party. No pre-poll, no post-poll alliance of any sort,” Sharma said when asked whether BJP will have any alliance with any party for the assembly polls.

Spectacular performance In a spectacular performance, the BJP had won a whopping 71 out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in the 2014 polls, propelling the party to attain a majority in the House on its own for the first time.

The party had won just 47 seats in the 2012 assembly polls. BJP’s vote share was 42 per cent in the

last Lok Sabha polls as against 15 per cent in the assembly polls in 2012.

Asked whether he was in the race for Chief Ministership if the party was voted to power in the key cow belt state, the first-time MP from Noida said he was ready to take any responsibility decided

by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the party leadership.

“The prime minister is like our guardian. He gave me responsibility of three ministries. I have been trying to do justice with them. I would love to take whatever responsibility he or my party leadership or my parliamentary board

I N C L E M E N T W E AT H E R

NATURE’S FURY: Houses buried under rubbles after a clouburst at Ghansali in Sialkot, Tehri on Saturday. - PTI

gives me,” the Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Tourism and Culture said.

The union minister said BJP leadership will take a decision on whether to project a chief ministerial face in the polls. He said the party has been working for the assembly polls for quite sometime as it would be a very crucial election, adding all party leaders will take the UP election as a “special task”.

Five more killed in Uttarakhand cloudbursts, toll mounts to six

Corruption Attacking the state’s Samajwadi Party government, he said people of Uttar Pradesh will punish them for “widespread corruption and lawlessness”. He called previous Mayawati government “an icon of corruption” and said people will not vote for her party as well. “We will go to people highlighting our achievements at the Centre. We have been able to provide good governance, we have been able to do development, ensure transparency. We could bring back the faith of people in the political system, in governance system. We will highlight it,” he said.

Sharma said BJP wants to make UP a fast developing state.

“People of UP know that like two wheels of a cart, one wheel (Modi government) is at the Centre now which is strong. They want to see that the other wheel in UP also becomes strong. They want to see that in both places there are BJP governments to ensure growth of UP which has been suffering for long,” he said. - PTI

DEHRADUN: Five more persons were killed over the last 24 hours in Uttarakhand as heavy rains triggered by a series of cloudbursts hit Tehri and Uttarkashi districts.

Uttarkashi’s Chinyalisaur area reported four fresh deaths. The toll in cloudburst now stands at six. Four persons, including three women, were swept in incidents of mudslide when a series of cloudbursts hit several villages in Chinyalisaur at 5pm and 10pmon Saturday, SDM Vijay Nath Shukla, who is on a visit to affected areas, said on Sunday.

The deceased women have been identified as Shartna Devi (45), Sunaina (19) and Godambari Devi (55) who hailed from Dargarh, Junga and Murogi localities, respectively. Sunaina’s body has been recovered and a search is on for the rest, he said. Munshi Lal (40) was also swept away by a flood triggered by a cloudburst in Suri village, he said, adding 13 cattle were also buried alive under the debris in the area. - PTI

C O M M E N TA RY

Modi government’s third year to see many more important legislations ARUN JAITLEY

The National Democratic Alliance Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has completed its two years in office.

It is normal for any government which enters the middle of its tenure to consolidate its road map for the future.

For the Modi government, the first two years has also been like the slog-overs. The government was formed in a peculiar environment. The United Progressive Alliance had abandoned policy formulation. It was dubbed as an era of ‘policy paralysis’. Both global and domestic investors had started disregarding India. India was off their radar.

The credibility of governance was marred with scams and scandals. The Prime Minister’s Office was no longer the repository of the last word. The 2014 election verdict was aspirational. The decisive majority in the Lok Sabha made decision making easier for the new government. The prime minister, by instinct, is decisive. The character of governance has changed.

Prime Minister Modi and his team have presented India with a changed political and governance culture.

That India can have a clean government at the Centre where files move on their own, middlemen are unemployed, discretions are elim-

inated, is a reality being presented before the country today.

From ‘policy paralysis’, India has transformed into the fastest growing global economy for two years in a row.

Federalism has been respected as never before. The prime minister, with his hands-on approach, has presented India with a Government that projects itself as different from its predecessor. India needed investment. Investment is the starting point of all economic activity.

Investment Both the banks and the private sector had over stretched themselves during the UPA government. Thus, a bulk of investment in the last two years came by way of enhanced public expenditure and Foreign Direct Investment.

The emphasis of the investment has been India’s infrastructure, rural sector and India’s social sector.

The highways sector is booming all over again. The expenditure this year on India’s rural roads will be three times what it was earlier.

Twenty five more regional airports will be added. The Railways are being strengthened.

With the re-development of four hundred major railways stations, the face of Indian Railways will be changed. There is more power available than what India needs. The port capacity is being

CANDID: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said under Prime Minister Modi, our effort will be to grow and grow faster. We have shown to the world a Government with a difference. We will continue to strive in that direction. - PTI

strengthened with additional investments.

Game changing initiatives in the oil and gas sector have been taken.

Electrification of all un-electrified villages, expansion of rural roads, rural sanitation, housing for all, enhanced expenditure on irrigation, more money for the Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, more money for interest subvention to make cheaper capital available for the farmer, are all instru-

mentalities of funding rural India.

The social sector schemes have been path breaking.

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana is the largest ever financial inclusion scheme in the world.

Every Indian today has the facility of being connected to a bank account. Subsidies are being rationalized so as they are targeted only to the poor and needy.

The Direct Benefit Transfer is saving a lot of money being used

for undeserving sections so that it can be preserved for the more deserving. The cheap insurance schemes, the employment generating Mudra Yojana, landmark crop insurance schemes and the proposed health insurance for the weaker sections are a part of the larger social security package that the Government has rolled out.

For the first time in history, coal, mineral, spectrum, etc, are all available only through online auctions. The mining sector today has been opened up for investment.

The non-discriminatory system of allotment is in sharp contrast to the scam culture of the past.

Taxation in India was perceived as extra aggressive.

Today, 94 per cent of assessees file their returns online, all taxpayers get their refunds digitally sitting at home and only 1 per cent have to physically interact with the Department for their assessments.

The direct taxes are being rationalized so as to incentivise manufacturing and increase investment.

Tax reforms The GST, once implemented, will prove to be one of the biggest tax reforms since independence. It will allow a nationwide transfer of goods and services without any stoppage. It will reduce evasion, yield higher tax and increase India’s GDP.

The banking sector has been considerably expanded.

Small Banks, Payment Banks, which are now available through licenses on taps, have provided more options to the consumer.

The Bankruptcy and Insolvency Code, coupled with amendments to the Sarfaesi Act and strengthening of the Debt Recovery Tribunals will go a long way in empowering the banking system to recover dues.

The Fourteenth Finance Commission has enhanced the share of the States in central tax pool from 32 per cent to 42 per cent. This has empowered the States to spend more for development. In the past two years, the NDA broadened its footprints all over the country.

After the Lok Sabha elections, the NDA won in the states of Maharashtra, Haryana, Jharkhand, Jammu and Kashmir and Assam.

We lost in Delhi and Bihar.

The Congress lost every state post 2014. The NDA today, besides ruling the Centre, is in power in fifteen states in the country. Its footprints have expanded.

The next one year will witness many more important legislations and directional steps in policy formulation. Under Prime Minister Modi, our effort will be to grow and grow faster. We have shown to the world a Government with a difference. We will continue to strive in that direction. - PTI

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

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PAKISTAN

Islamabad sees no threat from Iran’s Chabahar port There is no need to worry as Chabahar is not a recent development and the three countries (Iran, Afghanistan, India) have been working on it for a long time, said Additional Secretary of Trade Diplomacy Rubina Akhter

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Commerce seems to be least bothered by the trilateral agreement signed recently by Iran, Afghanistan and India for developing the Chabahar port, believing it can never be a competitor of Gwadar port since it is not a deep-sea port.

Senior ministry officer Rubina Akhter, who is the Additional Secretary of Trade Diplomacy, while talking to The Express Tribune said there was much hype about the move by Iran, Afghanistan and India, which inked an agreement to develop the Chabahar port, but it was not a threat to Pakistan.

The three countries signed the deal after the landmark ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project was launched by Pakistan and China under which Gwadar deep-sea port would be developed for opening an easy access to the regional markets.

NO BIG DEAL: An Iranian woman shops in the old bazaar in the southern Iranian coastal city of Chabahar on May 13, 2015. — AFP file photo

“There is no need to worry as Chabahar is not a recent development and the three countries have been working on it for a long time,” Akhter said, adding it was not an unexpected move in the region.

She said there was no match between the Chabahar and Gwadar ports as both had much contrast and could never become competitors.

She explained that besides not being a deep-sea port, the distance from Chabahar to potential markets is also much longer than Gwadar, which is another minus

point of the Iranian port.

She mentioned that the Iranian president during his recent visit to Pakistan also clarified that they were developing the Chabahar port and it was not a competitor of any other port in the region.

The other day Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan Mehdi Honardoost also dispelled the impression that Chabahar was a move against any other country.

He stated that each port in the region was of equal significance and benefit to the area and through cooperation they

A1 1

could be mutual partners and not competitors.

He stated the Chabahar deal was “not restricted to these three nations” and even Pakistan and China were welcome to be part of it.

The Ministry of Commerce and Iranian authorities are also working to sign a free trade agreement and in this regard an initial text is being prepared to share with Tehran.

The step has been taken after the lifting of sanctions by the international community following

a successful deal on the Iranian nuclear programme.

Akhter said the trade diplomacy with Iran was moving in the right direction.

There were a number of events on the cards in both the countries focused on promoting bilateral trade, which had halted due to the sanctions. The commerce ministry will lead a delegation to Iran in July or the first week of August to discuss trade-related issues and a proposal to hold a single-country exhibition of Pakistani goods in Iran.— Express Tribune

MANSOUR’S KILLING

Family of driver killed in drone strike files case against US QUETTA: Relatives of a taxi driver, who was killed in the US drone strike targeting Afghan Taliban leader Mullah Akhtar Mansour last week in Balochistan’s Noshki district, have registered a case against US officials for the killing.

“I seek justice in this case. Legal action should be taken against all those US officials responsible for killing my innocent brother in a drone strike near Noshki,” read a statement in the FIR lodged by brother of the deceased Muhammad Azam at Noshki police station. The applicant, Muhammad Qasim, upheld his brother was not only an innocent citizen but also the sole breadwinner of his fivemember family who drove a taxi for his living.

Azam and Mansour were killed in a US drone strike on May 21 in a remote area near the PakistanAfghanistan border. The mission, which US officials said was authorised by President Barack Obama, included multiple drones.

Following the strike, US Secretary of State John Kerry said leaders of both Pakistan and Afghanistan were notified of the air strike but he declined to elaborate on the timing of the notifications, which he said included a telephone call from him to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Reacting to the development, Pakistan termed the US drone strike inside the country’s territory a violation of its sovereignty as well as principles of the United Nations Charter governing the conduct of states. — Express Tribune

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FORGOTTEN ICON

Tennis superstar Saeed Meer set to undergo bypass surgery

POOR HEALTH: Syed Saeed Meer was Pakistan’s first tennis superstar but his decision to keep a low profile means very few remember him now. — Express Tribune

KARACHI: Touted in his time as the world’s fastest server, former Davis Cup player Syed Saeed Meer inspired many in Pakistan to take up tennis.

But on Tuesday, nearly 32 years after hanging up his boots, Saeed goes into a major surgery forgotten by his own countrymen and worrying about covering the Rs1.5 million minimum cost that his openheart surgery will incur.

“The problem with his heart surfaced on March 18,” Meer’s daughter, Shayaan Meer, told The Express Tribune. “He has been in and out of the hospital since. The doctors have told us that his heart valves need to be changed. It’s a bypass surgery. His valves are leaking.”

Tragedy has struck the Meer household without warning. “Before this he was healthy and was actively coaching as well,” said

WA S H I N G T O N T O F U N D P R O J E C T

US offers to conduct study on shale reserves in country ISLAMABAD: The United States has offered Pakistan assistance in undertaking and financing another study to assess the hidden and vast shale oil and gas reserves in the country, officials say.

The first study was conducted by the US Agency for International Development (USAID), but it did not cover some areas of Balochistan, Sindh and KhyberPakhtunkhwa.

Pakistan has accepted the offer for the second study for which the US will bear the entire cost.

Pakistan and the US have held a couple of meetings on forging cooperation in the energy sector over the past few years. The first huddle was held in 2014 which was followed by another meeting in April 2015. The third meeting of the series was held in Washington recently where the US expressed interest in conducting the second study to evaluate shale oil and gas deposits in Pakistan.

In the first assessment, USAID estimates showed that Pakistan

The first study was conducted by the US Agency for International Development

had massive deposits of 10,159 trillion cubic feet of shale gas and 2.3 trillion barrels of shale oil – figures that were several times higher than those released by the US Energy Information Administration (EIA).

Shale oil The USAID further revealed that risked technically recoverable resources were 95 trillion cubic feet of shale gas and 14 billion barrels of shale oil.

According to EIA assess-

ment in April 2011, Pakistan had 206 trillion cubic feet of shale gas in the lower Indus Basin, of which 51 trillion cubic feet were recoverable.

However, in June 2013, it revised the estimate upwards to 586 trillion cubic feet, of which 105 trillion cubic feet were technically recoverable.

Apart from gas, the EIA also saw the presence of 9.1 billion barrels of shale oil that were technically recoverable out of estimated deposits of 227 billion barrels. In the first study, the USAID collected data of 1,611 wells and undertook shale formation of 1,312 wells through drilling. It used 70 per cent of data to prepare the study and sent samples to the New Tech Laboratory in Houston for assessment.

Though the technology is available in advanced countries for tapping the shale reserves, environmental concerns, requirement of a huge quantity of water and a high cost of drilling are the real challenges. — Express Tribune

Shayaan. “He has always been so passionate about tennis, he would even coach for free; it really never was about money for him. But now we are financially drained as treatment has been costly.”

The 28-year-old Shayaan is the elder of Saeed’s two children and has been trying every day to get the financial help to pay for the medical assistance her father needs.

The man who represented Pakistan at the Davis Cup for a decade in the 70s is unsurprisingly bullish; refusing to ask for help despite being so physically weak that he is almost unable to walk.

“It’s hard to see him this way, but he is keeping his spirits up and staying strong, and that inspires us too, so we try to do whatever we can to make sure he is healthy again,” said Shayaan.

Money was not always an issue as Saeed was the highest paid play-

er among developing countries in the19 80s.

But some poor investments have led to financial trouble. “He feels bad for not getting any returns on the money he invested but he was more passionate about helping others than earning,” said Shayaan. “That is how I’ve always seen my father.”

Saeed’s profile as an international player is impressive. His Davis Cup record stands at 18 singles rubbers won and only eight lost. Saeed also won the West of England Championship and East of England Championship, and after turning pro in 1973, played at Wimbledon and the US Open in 1974, reaching the second round of both grand slams.

The 69-year-old also boasts a win over former Australian number one and Wimbledon winner Roy Emerson.

Meer was a coach at Beach View Club and has written a book ‘Learn to Play Tennis in Six Weeks’ in order to make tennis more accessible for aspiring players.

Pakistan’s most seasoned Davis Cup player and current national champion Aqeel Khan feels it is discouraging and disheartening to hear about Saeed’s predicament and it sends a negative message to those who want to pursue tennis as a career in Pakistan.

“What message do we get from this? That a man who dedicates his life to sports, earns accolades and makes his nation proud gets nothing but suffering in return?” asked Aqeel. The 36-year-old believes the government needs to do more for such stars. “It is the sports ministry’s job to take care of the players; the Pakistan Sports Board should have a fund for such players,” he said. — Express Tribune

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READERS’ FORUM Suicides by Indian expatriates very worrying The online report, Indian mason found dead in Oman (May 29) regarding the increasing number of Indian expatriates committing suicide abroad, particularly in the Middle East countries, is worrying indeed.

Even though the reasons for most of such cases are not immediately known, family issues and work-related stress could be some of the reasons triggering people to go for such extreme decisions, apparently leaving their close family members in a desperate situation. This could tend to affect their children psychologically throughout the life. In earlier days, suicide deaths were Scan this QR code comparatively less in Middle East counto send letters to the tries where majority expatriate commuReaders’ Forum, nities are located. The recent increase in containing not more than 200 words with number of expatriate Indians committing full name, address suicide is indeed disturbing and a serious and telephone concern for the community as a whole. Obnumber, may be sent viously, the overseas mission has a role in by e-mail (akhtar@ timesofoman.com). organising community services in order to give people in all levels the opportunity to closely associate with each other. It would be ideal if cultural and non-profit organisations do get involved in such campaigns in an attempt to provide counselling .

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MUJOBU MOYO

At end of 2014 fiscal year, India officially graduated from IDA program, because it was no longer poor enough to qualify. World Bank sets a threshold for receiving assistance, based on per capita gross national income (GNI). In the fiscal year 2016, the threshold is $1,215.

India’s GNI has exceeded the World Bank’s limit each year since 2010

Roderick Abbott

T

he “Brexiteers” – those who want Britain to leave the European Union – argue that their goal would be virtually cost-free and have no effect on the United Kingdom’s global trade. They are wrong. On June 23, when voters in Britain cast their ballots in the referendum on the question, they need to consider what is actually involved in leaving the EU – and how the free-trade benefits they now enjoy (and take for granted) could be maintained after Brexit.

Start with the basics. Leaving the EU means that the UK would exit the EU’s Customs Union, which is the basis for cross-border free trade among the EU’s 28 members (and establishes a common external tariff vis-à-vis third countries). It also means exit from the Single Market – the basis for the free movement of goods and services among EU members. By definition, non-members of the EU cannot belong to the Single Market.

So what would happen next? During the twoyear period before Britain’s withdrawal takes final effect, there would be UK-EU negotiations on many points – sovereignty, the legal order, immigration, finances, and economic matters.

The assumption is that a crucial goal for Britain would be to negotiate a trading relationship as close as possible to the free-trade relationships that exist today.

That is easier said than done. The best result would be if all players agreed to maintain the free trade already achieved, with the UK setting a new external tariff on a duty-free basis, applicable to all comers. This is what happened in the 1970s after Britain and Denmark left the European Free Trade Association: Free-trade agreements were negotiated among EFTA members and between them and the EU (or the EEC as it was then known).

But Brexiteers should realise that there is no guarantee that this would happen again – and, in any case, there would be complications. While this solution would be good for the 45 per cent of British exports that are sold in EU markets, it would reduce protection for British industries to zero.

Under the rules of the World Trade Organisation, the same import duties must be applied to all WTO participants – which means that if Britain’s imports from the EU are duty-free, its imports from the rest of the world must be, too.

The alternative would be for UK exporters to accept the EU’s common external tariff, and for the UK to create its own import tariff, applied to all imports, including from the EU. Because the common tariff is at a relatively low level on industrial

and fishery products, this might not be an insuperable barrier for UK exports, and it would allow some flexibility in protecting UK companies from imports. The potential pitfall is that any British tariff increase above the EU level would expose the UK to claims for compensation from third countries in the WTO. The bigger question that the Brexiteers need to answer is how to secure a high level of access to the EU’s internal market. This is vitally important for Britain’s service industries, particularly for the City of London’s exports of financial services.

There is only one precedent for non-EU members being able to negotiate access to the internal market equivalent to that enjoyed by EU members.

This is the European Economic Area agreement concluded with the EU by Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein in 1992.

In the view of many observers, including me, access to the Single Market through the EEA is no longer available. But what if we’re wrong? The point is that such a deal would go against all the instincts (and rhetoric) of the Brexiteers, because it would mean accepting the EU’s “four freedoms”: not just the free movement of goods, services, and capital – but of people, too. That would be hard to square with the Brexit objective of “controlling our borders.” The Brexiteers would also blanch at Britain’s obligation under an EEA-type agreement to continue contributing to the EU budget.

Of course, there could be specific arrangements for particular sectors. But it seems unlikely that such arrangements would be possible in financial services and the major professional services (including doctors, architects, and lawyers), which are important for Britain’s competitors in Europe.

Indeed, it is possible that the EU would adopt a tough mercantilist stance: If you want privileged access, you should stay in the club.

The final consequence of Brexit is that the UK would lose its free-trade arrangements with third countries under the many trade agreements that the EU has signed since 2000. Replacing these agreements with bilateral deals would take time.

There is no guarantee that the EU would agree to an interim continuation of free trade, and it seems certain that UK exports would face higher tariffs than its former EU partners in those third countries (placing British exporters at a competitive disadvantage). - Project Syndicate

CLIPPINGS FROM OUR ARCHIVES MAY 2001 Meet on plant genetic resources MUSCAT: Dr Saud bin Nasir Al Riyami, president of the Sultan Qaboos University, opened at Crowne Plaza Hotel yesterday the expert consultation meeting on sustainable utilization and plant genetic resources in the Sultanate. The two-day meeting is being organized by the Agriculture and Fisheries Ministry in cooperation with the FAO, the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI) and the International Centre for Agriculture Research in arid areas (Icarda).

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MAXIMUM

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

1783: The first American daily newspaper, The Pennsylvania Evening Post, begins publishing in Philadelphia.

1814: The First Treaty of Paris is declared, returning France to its 1792 borders.

MINIMUM 7 0

1913: The First Balkan War ends.

1971: NASA launches Mariner 9, first satellite to orbit Mars.

Source National Centre for Statistics & Information

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

A1 3

WORLD Brexit campaign slams Cameron as rift widens With less than a month to go before the June 23 referendum, the debate has turned acrimonious, with parliament’s Treasury select committee on Friday accusing both sides of misleading

COMMITTED: Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron walks on

voters with

Ujibashi bridge as he visits Ise Grand Shrine in Ise, Mie prefecture, Japan, on Thursday. - REUTERS/Toru Hanai/File Photo

‘Remain’ campaign continued to focus on the potential impact of Brexit on Britain’s economy, with a poll commissioned by the Observer newspaper showing nine out of 10 economists agree an exit would cause economic damage

‘bogus claims’

LONDON: The rifts in British Prime Minister David Cameron’s Conservative Party worsened as two leading Brexit campaigners accused him of breaking his promises on immigration and speculation mounts about a leadership challenge after the June 23 referendum on European Union (EU) membership.

Former London Mayor Boris Johnson and Justice Secretary Michael Gove said Cameron, who is leading the drive for Britain to remain in the EU, should accept that his Conservative Party’s election pledge to cut annual immigration to tens of thousands has failed. The migrant flow last year increased to more than 330,000.

“Voters were promised repeatedly at elections that net migration could be cut to tens of thousands,” Gove and Johnson wrote in the letter, published in the Sunday Times newspaper. “This promise is plainly not achievable as long as the UK

is a member of the EU and the failure to keep it is corrosive of public trust in politics.”

The disquiet among rank-andfile Conservative lawmakers continues to grow. Lawmaker Andrew Bridgen told BBC 5 live that more than four dozen lawmakers from Cameron’s party were ready to back a vote of no-confidence in the prime minister.

“If there’s a small ‘remain’ vote,” then “I think there probably would be 50 colleagues who’d be very dissatisfied with the prime minister’s performance,” he said.

With less than a month to go before the June 23 referendum, the debate has turned acrimonious, with parliament’s Treasury select committee on Friday accusing both sides of misleading voters with “bogus claims.”

After the publication of several reports by the Treasury focused on the potential economic shock of an exit, the Leave campaign is seeking to regain control of the debate by focusing on the impact of EU membership on migration.

“No Conservative MP who was elected at the last election can fulfill our pledge to the British people if we vote to stay in the EU,” former Tory Defence Secretary and Brexit campaigner Liam Fox told the BBC’s “Andrew Marr Show” on Sunday.

“I want control of our own lawmaking, I want control of our own money and I want control of our own borders.”

Migration Net migration to the UK rose to 333,000 in 2015, just below the record, and a 20,000 increase from 2014, the Office of National Statistics said on Thursday. Cameron remains committed to the immigration pledge. “The ambitions I’ve set out are the right ones,” he told reporters travelling to a leaders’ summit in Japan with him last week when asked if it wouldn’t be easier to abandon the target.

“Of course the figures are disappointing,” Cameron said on Friday when asked about the statistics.

The high numbers are partly the

C O M M E M O R AT I O N S

Merkel, Hollande mark 100-year anniversary of Battle of Verdun VERDUN (France): German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande together marked the 100year anniversary of the Battle of Verdun on Sunday, laying a wreath at a cemetery in northeastern France for the 300,000 soldiers killed.

The two leaders were due to lunch together and then to make joint statements later in the day.

Hollande said earlier this week discussions would focus on Europe’s future, including the migrant crisis, security and the rise of populist movements.

The Verdun battle was one of the longest in World War I, lasting more than 300 days from February to December 1916.

Sunday’s commemorations at Verdun took place in the rain, and Hollande held an umbrella for Merkel and himself as they made their way to the German cemetery Consenvoy to lay a wreath.

The battle’s commemoration has come to signify the close relationship between Germany and France. It was not until 1984 that the neighbours carried out a joint ceremony to mark the Verdun battle, another step towards ending decades of residual hostility and distrust after two World

REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY: France’s President Francois Hollande, left, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, right, attend a balloon drop during a remembrance ceremony to mark the centenary of the battle of Verdun, in Verdun, on Sunday. - AFP

Wars. A photo of then French President Francois Mitterand and then German Chancellor Helmut Kohl holding hands in the Douaumont cemetery at Verdun became a symbol of Franco-German reconciliation.

That year also saw France and Germany agreeing on the gradual abolition of border checks, a precursor to the Schengen zone of passport-free travel, launched by five European countries the following year.

In 2016, however, some of these

foundations of the European Union appear under threat. Britain’s June referendum on EU membership, a rise in militant attacks, the biggest migrant crisis since World War II and a slow economic recovery have strained relations in the bloc and raised the prospect of a catastrophic euro breakup.

In her weekly podcast, Merkel said Germany’s relations with France had stood fast even when the countries had diverging opinions, and that Europe would have to adapt. - Reuters

FIFTH PHASE OF VOTING

12 killed as violence mars local body elections in Bangladesh DHAKA: At least 12 people, including two candidates and two children, were killed and over 200 injured in violence during Bangladesh’s fifth phase of voting in the local body polls which have turned out to be the deadliest so far, media reports said on Sunday.

Voting in the elections of Union Parishads (councils), being held on party lines for the first time under an amended system, was held in 717 unions under 45 districts on Saturday amid violence

and allegations of rigging and other malpractices.

Twelve deaths were reported from Jamalpur, Chittagong, Noakhali, Comilla, Panchagarh and Narayanganj during the polls that will elect chairmen and councillors for the lowest tier of local government system, the Daily Star reported.

The latest deaths bring to over 110 the total number of people who have died in election-related violence in the three and a half

months since the announcement of the election schedule.

The previous phases of polls had claimed 101 lives and the highest number of people killed in election-day violence was 10, according to media reports.

Two candidates— Kamal Uddin, BNP rebel chairman aspirant at Comilla’s Titas, and Mohammad Yasin, who was vying for the post of member at Chittagong’s Karnaphuli — were stabbed to death in separate clashes. -PTI

result of the UK economy performing better than those elsewhere in Europe, he said.

Meanwhile, the “Remain” campaign continued to focus on the potential impact of Brexit on Britain’s economy, with a poll commissioned by the Observer newspaper showing nine out of 10 economists agree an exit would cause economic damage. The IPSOS Mori survey of over 600 economists showed 88 per cent of respondents said leaving the EU single market would damage Britain’s growth prospects over the next five years. The survey was carried out online between May 19 and May 27.

Speaking on the Marr show on Sunday, former Labour prime minister Tony Blair said the risks of leaving the bloc far outweighed any advantages.

“We will suffer an immediate shock to our economy, we will create years of uncertainty,” Blair said. “It’s an enormous economic problem. Is that pain worth the gain and what is that gain that’s so important?” - Bloomberg

POLITICAL ROW

South Africa police deny Gordhan inquiry moved to new unit JOHANNESBURG: South Africa’s elite Hawks police unit denied on Sunday a report that an investigation involving Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan, which has helped to weaken the rand, has been transferred to another part of the force.

Citing an unnamed source, the City Press newspaper said the police crime intelligence unit had taken over the inquiry into a surveillance body formed at the national tax agency SARS when it was run by Gordhan between 1999 and 2009.

The Hawks, which are responsible for tackling organised and commercial crime plus serious corruption, have previously said they were running the inquiry but that Gordhan was not being personally targeted.

On Sunday, Hawks spokesman Hangwani Mulaudzi repeated this denial, and dismissed the City Press report.

“There is no investigation against the minister, the investigation is only on the spy unit at SARS. It is not correct that the crime intelligence unit is handling the case,” Mulaudzi said.

Gordhan has been embroiled in the investigation and an accompanying political row at a time when South Africa faces a possible downgrading of its credit rating. Standard and Poor’s, which ranks Africa’s most industrialised country just one step above sub-investment grade, is due to make public its rating decision on Friday. Gordhan has said rival credit rating agency Fitch will also announce the result of its review of South Africa on June 8.

Policymakers fear the country, whose economy is expected to grow by less than one per cent this year, may be headed to “junk’ status, an outcome that would increase its borrowing costs.

On Friday, the presidency said in a statement that President

IN TROUBLED WATERS: South

African Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan delivers his 2016 Budget speech to parliament in Cape Town, on February 24, 2016. - Reuters file photo

Jacob Zuma is not “at war” with Gordhan over the control of the National Treasury, in response to widespread media reports.

The City Press cited an unnamed senior crime intelligence commander as saying his police unit was now involved in the inquiry because it had “better resources and capacity, and a larger network of informants”.

The commander added that the Hawks were “not making sufficient progress” in the case of the spy unit, which was set up to tackle organised crime and illicit revenues. The crime intelligence unit is authorised to use surveillance and conduct undercover operations, such as infiltrating crime syndicates. On May 15, the Sunday Times newspaper reported that Gordhan faced imminent arrest, sending the rand tumbling to a two-month low, despite denials by the presidency and the police. - Reuters

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A 14

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

GLOBAL EYE

CHINA: Buildings of Wanda Mall in shapes of blue and white porcelain are seen ahead of its official opening in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China, on Friday, picture released on Sunday. — Reuters/Stringer

GERMANY: The Reichstag building and the Chancellery are pictured in Berlin, Germany, on

SPAIN: Tol Theatre company performs during the inauguration of World Puppet Festival in the north-

Sunday.

ern Spanish Basque city of San Sebastian on Saturday. — AFP

— Reuters

CHINA: Pupils present scrolls of traditional Chinese calligraphy at a school to increase awareness and respect to traditional Chinese culture in Yiwu, Zhejiang Province, China, on Friday, picture released on Sunday. - Reuters/Stringer

JAPAN: A Japanese bride wearing a pure white kimono rides a boat with her parents for her wedding

TAIWAN: A child plays with foam bubbles during the Love Foam Run race in Hsinchu, Taiwan on

KOSOVO: A child sits on a vintage car displayed during the 11th Old Timers Fest on Sunday in Prizren,

Sunday. — Reuters

Kosovo. — AFP

in Itako city, some 80 kilometres northeast of Tokyo, on Sunday, as part of the annual Ayame (iris) flower festival. — AFP

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

A1 5

WORLD O F F M A N H AT TA N

WWII vintage plane crashes in Hudson River NEW YORK: The pilot of a World War II-era plane killed in a crash in the Hudson River off Manhattan on Friday evening was trying to execute an emergency landing, the museum that owned the vintage aircraft said.

The P-47 Thunderbolt crashed just south of the George Washington Bridge. The New York Police Department identified a body recovered from the plane as that of William Gordon, 56, of Key West, Florida. Police would not comment on a cause of death.

The American Airpower Museum, which owned the plane, said in a statement on Facebook on Saturday that Gordon was an “extraordinary” aviator who brought the plane down in a “forced emergency landing” on the Hudson.

Gary Lewi, a spokesman for the museum in Farmingdale, New York, told Long Island newspaper

Newsday that the aircraft’s engine failed during the flight.

Witnesses told CNN they saw the pilot struggling to get out of the cockpit after the aircraft struck the water.

An investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board is underway.

The FAA said the plane was one of three aircraft that took off from Republic Airport in Farmingdale.

The other two safely returned to the airport. Local media reported the planes were flying as part of a promotional shoot.

The crash took place during Fleet Week, a week-long celebration of the US military’s seafaring service members. A dozen police and fire rescue boats adorned with flashing blue lights trawled the river Friday night in a search for the plane. — Reuters

TERRIBLE TRAGEDY: Rescuers inspect the debris of a residential house after a fire broke out, in the village of Litochky, northeast of Kiev in Ukraine. – Reuters

17 killed in Ukraine village building fire Emergency services units saved 18 people, five of whom have been hospitalised

KIEV: Seventeen people have been killed after a fire broke out in a residential building housing elderly people in a village near Kiev, Ukraine’s state emergency service said on Sunday.

The fire broke out in the early hours of Sunday morning, it said, adding that the privately owned two-storey building housed 35 people in the village of Litochky, 37 kilometres (23 miles) north-

east of Kiev. “Emergency services units saved 18 people, five of whom have been hospitalised with burns of varying degrees of severity,” it said.

Investigation Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman said the fire was a terrible tragedy that had caused irreparable loss and called for an immediate investigation into its

causes, a statement on the government website said.

Kiev police said they had detained the owner of the building and that he had been running the building as a private care home for the elderly, charging residents 6,000 hryvnia ($238) a month. A statement on the police website said that a criminal case had been opened relating to a suspected violation of fire safety law. — Reuters

ONGOING PROTESTS

French government to stand firm on labour reform, says Valls PARIS: French Prime Minister Manuel Valls is determined not to join a long list of politicians who have conceded defeat to protesters, he told the Journal Du Dimanche (JDD) newspaper, as the government prepares to dig in its heels on labour reform.

The hardline CGT union has organised street protests, train strikes and refinery blockades to pressure the government to scrap plans that would make it easier for companies to hire and fire workers. “If we gave in to the street and to CGT because we were obsessed over the short term by 2017 (presidential elections), we would lose everything,” Valls was quoted as saying by the French newspaper.

In the mid-1990s Prime Minister Alain Juppe triggered France’s C I N C I N NAT I

Zoo kills gorilla after boy falls into enclosure OHIO: A male gorilla in the Cincinnati Zoo was killed by keepers on Saturday after he dragged around a 4-year-old boy who fell into the enclosure, a zoo official said. The boy crawled through a barrier and fell about 12 feet (3.7-meters) into a moat surrounding the habitat, where Harambe, a 400-pound (181kg) western lowland gorilla, grabbed him, Cincinnati Zoo Director Thane Maynard told reporters.

The boy was with the 17-yearold gorilla for about 10 minutes and the zoo’s dangerous animal response team deemed the situation life-threatening, he said.

“The choice was made to put down, or shoot, Harambe, so he’s gone,” he said.

Two female gorillas were also in the enclosure at the time of the incident. Maynard said the boy, who was not identified, was not seriously injured in the fall. In a statement, the zoo said the boy was alert when taken to a hospital. Harambe was born at the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas, and was moved to the Cincinnati Zoo in 2014. Western lowland gorillas are classified as an endangered species, and Maynard said the zoo had hoped to use Harambe for breeding. — Reuters

worst unrest in decades because he would not budge on pension reform but he eventually backed down after weeks of industrial action and protests. The government is under pressure to find a solution to the latest stand-off before the June 10 start of the Euro 2016 soccer tournament in France, which the CGT has threatened to disrupt. Finance Minister Michel Sapin emphasised the government’s stance.

“First and foremost we must be firm,” Sapin said in an interview with Reuters and three European newspapers. “Doing otherwise would be wrong with respect to (other) labour unions, most of whom support the text.” The more moderate CFDT union backs proposed reform that will allow busi-

nesses to lay off staff more easily in hard times but also give unions more power to negotiate unilateral deals with companies rather than national collective agreement.

Sapin said he agreed with the tough stance taken by Valls and that he had been misunderstood when he told LCP television last week that it might be possible to tweak the part of the draft bill that would let companies opt out of national obligations on labour protection if they adopt in-house deals on pay and conditions with the consent of a majority of employees. For all the tough talk, however, another minister said that the government could not let the Euro 2016 tournament be disrupted because it would be bad for France’s image. -Reuters

DISCUSSIONS: French Prime Minister Manuel Valls, thrid left, French Minister of Interior Bernard Ca-

zeneuve, second right, and French junior minister for Transport, Maritime Economy and Fishery Alain Vidalies, right, attend a meeting with members of the French government and representatives of the oil sector at the Hotel Matignon on Saturday in Paris. – AFP

A16

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

WORLD

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DANGEROUS JOURNEYS

At least 700 migrants ‘died’ at sea this week, say agencies ROME: At least 700 migrants may have died at sea this past week in the busiest week of migrant crossings from Libya towards Italy this year, Medecins San Frontieres and the UN Refugee agency said on Sunday.

About 14,000 have been rescued since Monday amid calm seas, and there have been at least three confirmed instances of boats sinking.

But the number of dead can only be estimated based on survivor testimony, which is still being collected.

“We will never know exact numbers,” Medecins San Frontieres said in a Tweet after estimating that 900 had died during the week.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said more than 700 had drowned.

Migrants interviewed on Sat-

urday in the Sicilian port of Pozzallo told of a large fishing boat that overturned and sank on Thursday with many women and children on board.

Initial estimates were that 400 people died, but the UN Refugee agency said on Sunday there may have been about 670 passengers on board. According to testimony collected by EU border agency

Frontex, when the motorless fishing boat capsized, 25 swam to the boat that had been towing it, while 79-89 others were saved by rescuers and 15 bodies were recovered.

This meant more than 550 died, the UNHCR said.

The migrants — fleeing wars, oppression and poverty — often do not know how to swim and do not have life jackets. — Reuters S E PA R AT I S T A S S A U LT

5 Ukrainian soldiers killed in attacks KIEV: Five Ukrainian servicemen have been killed and four wounded in the past 24 hours as a result of attacks by pro-Russian rebels in separatist eastern regions, Ukrainian military spokesman Oleksandr Motuzyanyk said on Sunday.

This follows a report of the deaths of seven Ukrainian soldiers last Tuesday - the highest daily casualty figure for government troops since August.

A ceasefire signed in February 2015 has failed to quell all fighting in Ukraine’s separatist east, with each side accusing the other of violations.

Motuzyanyk highlighted the government-controlled frontline town of Avdiyivka, north of separatist-held Donetsk city, as a recent hotspot for rebel attacks from both light and heavy weapons, including mortars.

Russia denies Western charges it has provided the rebels in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions with arms and troops in a conflict that has killed some 9,000 people and led to Western economic sanctions against Moscow.

On Saturday rebel officials said two civilians had been wounded as a result of shelling

by Ukrainian troops, separatist website DAN reported. — Reuters

B

NEW PROJECT IN SALALAH Fashion Apparels Factory is set to lay foundation stone for building a new project on Monday in Salalah Free Zone. The ceremony will be held under the auspices of Sayyid Mohammed bin Sultan Al Busaidi, Minister of State and Governor of Dhofar. — ONA

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

MARKE

Water projects to be built in Duqm, Khasab

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GAINING POPULARITY IN OMAN

Takaful insurance in Oman grows 64% A E JAMES

The initial tenders are for selecting consultants to conduct onshore and offshore studies, which are linked to the development of Duqm and Khasab water projects

A. E. JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Four initial tenders were floated by Oman Power and Water Procurement Company (OPWP) on Sunday to prepare ground for developing two independent water projects – one each in Duqm and Khasab.

These tenders are for the selection of consultants to conduct onshore and offshore studies for determining whether the seabed

areas are smooth or sandy, as well as the quality of water and other aspects related to the potential site, which will assist bidders indeveloping a clear idea about the overall design and other project requirements.

The proposed Duqm independent project will have a water desalination capacity of 60,000 cubic metres per day, while the Khasab desalination project will provide 16,000-20,000 cubic metres of water generation capacity, according

to sources familiar with the tender.

These projects, which are expected to be completed by late 2019, are aimed at meeting the growing demand for water in the country’s different regions. As far as the water grid is concerned, apart from the main interconnected system, the Sultanate has four independent zones – Salalah, Duqm, Khasab and Sharqiya.

Demand for potable water Demand for potable water in Sultanate of Oman’s northern region, which includes Muscat governorate, is projected to grow by six per cent per annum during the next five year horizon, from 238 million cubic metres in 2013 to 349 million cubic metres in 2020. This compares to the previous sevenyear forecasts in which average annual growth was in the range of three to five per cent, according to a seven-year outlook for power and water demand released by

OPWP last year. A combination of population growth and industrial development is cited as a major reason for the growth in demand for potable water.

Of late, requests for proposals for two independent water projects — Salalah and Sharquiya — have been floated by OPWP, whichoversees the procurement of all new electricity generation and water desalination capacity in the country.

These two projects are expected to be ready by early 2019.

The findings of studies of the Duqm and Khasab independent water projects will be distributed among potential bidders, while floating the request for proposal tenders (RfPs) so that bidders will be in a better position to gauge the condition of ground and seabed areas. Based on this information, bidders are expected to have a better idea about design and piling requirements.

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Islamic insurance, which is popularly known as takaful insurance, is gaining popularity in Oman with the players achieving a robust growth of 64 per cent in gross direct premium at OMR39 million last year, which constitutes around 9 per cent of insurance industry’s OMR442 million direct premium income and 5 per cent of total paid claims.

The success of takaful insurance firms, despite an economic slowdown in viewof a slump in oil prices, was mainly due to the ability of takaful players to gain people’s trust, ability to offer affordable and competitive premium and quality service.

The Sultanate’s two takaful insurance firms – Al Madina Takaful and Takaful Oman Insurance– are taking efforts to create awareness among the public on

the importance of Sharia-compliance insurance schemes.

According to the CMA’s insurance review, the direct gross premiums of the insurance industry grew by 11 per cent to OMR442 million in 2015, from OMR396.2 million in the previous year.

Also, the average annual growth in insurance sector in the last five years was 12 per cent, which shows the popularity of both conventional insurance products and Sharia-compliant takaful insurance schemes in the country.

All these achievements are made in spite of an unusual growth in compensation claims, mainly from construction firms and vehicle insurers, following a series of damages caused by unusual rains last year.

The total paid claims surged ahead by 25 per cent to touch OMR290.72 million last year, from OMR232.21 million in 2014. > B4

B2

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

MARKET BY 2030

Clean energy to take bigger share of electricity market ABU DHABI: Renewable energy will account for 40 per cent of electricity output capacity by 2030, almost double today’s market share, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (Irena).

The expansion will be due to lower technology costs, Adnan Amin, Irena’s director general, said in an interview on Bloomberg TV in Dubai.

“We anticipate with the lower technology cost, by 2030 we’re going to have renewables capacity in the global power system at around 40 percent, which is quite remarkable growth.”

That compares to 22 per cent today, according to Irena.

The real challenge for renewables is capturing crude oil’s market share in heating, cooling and transportation products, Amin said.

“As far as the power sector is concerned, oil plays a very little role in power generation worldwide” at about 5 per cent, he said.

Solar energy Electricity from solar energy is getting a boost as the price of solar power has declined.

Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, awarded a contract for

a 200-megawatt solar plant in January 2015 at what was then a record-low price of 5.85 cents per kilowatt-hour.

Last month, the emirate received a bid for an 800-megawatt plant at a power price of 2.99 cents per kilowatt-hour.

Falling crude prices have made alternative fuels less economically attractive, curbing investment in biofuels, according to Irena.

“There is a lot of momentum looking at electric mobility powered by renewables, but we’ve seen a real negative impact has been on biofuel investment,” he said. - Bloomberg News

TALKS COLLAPSE: A Dubai-based investor group led by Emaar Properties ended talks to buy a 69%

stake in Middle East fast-food operator valued at about $1.8 billion, – Bloomberg News

Emaar’s bid to acquire Kuwait Food fizzles out Adeptio signed an initial deal in February to buy the stake in Americana, as Kuwait Food is known, and had planned to start a mandatory takeover offer

DUBAI: A Dubai-based investor group led by Emaar Properties chairman Mohamed Alabbar ended talks to buy a 69 per cent stake in Kuwait Food, a Middle Eastern fast-food operator valued at about $1.8 billion, the latest twist in an on-off sale process stretching back at least two years.

“A final agreement has not been reached between Al Khair and the buyer, Adeptio, for all of Al Khair’s shares in Americana,” Al Khair National for Stocks and Real Estate said on Sunday. “Therefore,

the two sides have agreed to end negotiations.” The statement didn’t say why the talks collapsed.

Sale process Adeptio signed an initial accord in February to buy the stake in Americana, as Kuwait Food is known, and had planned to start a mandatory takeover offer under local stock exchange rules.

The deal had culminated a sale process in which Kuwait’s Al Kharafi family had tested investor interest in the company with-

out concluding a deal.

Singapore’s Temasek Holdings and Saudi Arabia’s Savola Group teamed up to bid last year, while KKR and CVC Capital Partners made an offer in 2014, people with knowledge of the matter said at the time. BRF, the Brazilian food maker, had also held talks with the company, its chairman said in an interview in 2014.

Americana shares have risen 17 per cent since the beginning of the year, giving the company a market capitalisation of 941 million Kuwaiti dinars ($3.1 billion). Kuwait’s stock exchange was closed when Al Khair said the talks had ended and shares had been suspended Sunday morning pending an announcement.

Americana is the franchise operator of restaurants such as KFC, TGI Friday’s and Pizza Hut in the Middle East and North Africa. It also produces California Garden beans and Farm Frites frozen vegetables. — Bloomberg News

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

B3

MARKET AL ANSAB

Haya Water expanding capacity of sewage plant

Marginal drop in LG’s home appliances sales amid oil fall

Times News Service MUSCAT: Haya Water is embarking on a major expansion of Al Ansab sewage treatment plant and Azaiba central pumping station, which will increase capacity of the sewage treatment plant from 57,000 cubic metres a day to 125,000 cubic metres a day.

Eng. Said bin Rashid Al Asmi, projects general manager at Haya Water said: “The expansion of Al Ansab project aims to increase the number of domestic connection, besides incorporating the addition of four new pump station referred to as Central Pump Station to double its pumping capacity from 130,000 cubic metres a day to 260,000 cubic metres a day. This is in line with Haya Water Master Plan 2013 and the Vision of coming up with a world class water reuse system in Muscat.”

LG is planning

Duration of contract The duration of the construction is 730 days and the project commenced on August 18, 2015, says a press release.

The work is expected to be completed by July 2017, as stipulated in the contract.

The new enhancement and capacity increase will be effective from July this year due to the replacement of the old membrane in the existing eight membrane bio-reactor (MBR) tanks with new membrane and hence additional capacity of around 20,000 cubic meters a day.

vacuum cleaner

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to introduce new products to the GCC market like twin washing machine, side-by-side and dual door-in-door refrigerators, air conditioner designed

OPTIMISTIC: Taehun Ryu, the head of home appliance sales and

marketing for the Middle East and Africa, said that the home appliances sector in Oman has witnessed a 20 per cent drop in sales, but LG faced a marginal drop of 5 per cent in the first quarter of 2016. - Supplied picture

for Gulf region, newly designed microwave oven and a cordless

MOBIN MATHEW BLESSON

mobinmathew@timesofoman.com SEOUL/MUSCAT: South Korean home appliances giant LG said that although a slump in oil prices has affected the sales of the company’s products in the Gulf region, the magnitude of the fall was much less when compared to other firms in the industry.

“Weak demand caused by the drop in oil prices has negatively affected the sales in the Middle East region,” Taehun Ryu, the head of home appliance sales and marketing for the Middle East and Africa region told journalists, who visited the headquarters of the LG Corporation in South Korea.

“Especially in Oman, the home appliances sector has faced a 20 per cent drop in their sales, (but) LG faced a marginal drop of 5 per cent in the first quarter of 2016,” Ryu asserted.

According to him, LG has a brand name in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, which helps them to maintain the growth rate during a period of economic slowdown.

Innovative products He pointed out that they are expecting a growth in sales during the ‘Ramadan’ period this year.

“During Ramadan, we always have a 30 per cent growth in our sales and we hope we can surpass the sales this year,” Ryu added.

“This Ramadan, we are planning to introduce new products to the market. We are also offerings gifts and discounts,” he said.

Speaking about their product designing, Ryu said: “While designing a product, we carry out customer research and find out the

GLOBAL MEET

needs and this helps us to introduce good products to the market.”

“This policy makes us the champions in the market,” he added.

According to Ryu, LG Home Appliance has been introducing innovative products after getting feedback from customers on their specific needs.

He explained that LG is now focusing on automobile industry in developing electric cars in cooperation with leading automobile companies.

Ryu also said that LG’s products are based on eco-friendly philosophy. “We develop our products on eco-friendly philosophy, which consumes less energy,” he said.

He further said that LG Home Appliance & Air Solution Company recorded sales of KRW4.22 trillion ($3.51 billion) in the first quarter, an increase of 4 per cent year-on-year, thanks to high premium product sales and growth in its business-tobusiness operations.

LG Home Appliances is also planning to introduce new prod-

30%

Is the usual growth in sales of LG during Ramadan and the company hopes to surpass the figure this year, said the company official

ucts to the GCC market like twin washing machine, side by side and dual door in door refrigerators, air conditioner designed for the Gulf region, newly designed microwave oven and a cordless vacuum cleaners.

Washing machine According to the officials, LG Twin-Wash will allow consumers to experience what people all over the world have been excited about the ability to wash two loads

of laundry at the same time. It combines a full-sized front loading washing machine with a mini washer in a hide-away pedestal, generating a whole new set of washing options.

“We are quite pleased to finally bring the LG Twin Wash to consumers in the Gulf region, which can provide the ultimate convenience to those doing laundry for big families,” said Jo Seong-jin, president of LG Electronics and Home Appliance & Air Solutions.

“TWIN Wash significantly cuts down on washing time as multiple loads of laundry can now be handled simultaneously,” he added.

According to him, the powerful main washer handles the bulk of laundry, while the mini washer can be set to run a different wash cycle. He also said that the mini washer is perfect for delicate or specialised items that require a unique wash setting, such as lingerie or baby clothes.

Both the refrigerators — side by side and door in door — have its strong points; with the side-byside category refrigerator offering enormous food storage space and an ice and water dispenser, while the Dual Door-in-Door refrigerator comes with premium design, sleek finishing and thoughtful food organisation features.

Speaking about the new air conditioner Jo Seong-jin, said, “LG’s flagship Titan air conditioner is the ideal solution for consumers in the Gulf region.”

“Equipped with tropical compressor technology and a variety of cooling features, the Titan helps consumers stay cool during the summer months. The Titan also boasts a state-of-the-art air purification system that removes potentially deadly airborne impurities from the home,” he added.

SEMINAR

Forum focuses on changes in UK’s real estate tax law Times News Service

CONFERENCE: The 8th Annual International Conference on ‘Transformation and excellence with

ethics’ was attended by more than 300 delegates from Oman and other GCC states. – Supplied picture

Regulator setting benchmark for ethical corporate behaviour Times News Service MUSCAT: Capital Market Authority (CMA), under the leadership of its executive president Abdullah Salim Al Salmi, has undertaken the task of promoting transparency and accountability in the corporate sector to boost investor confidence and protect all stakeholders, said Mohamed Said Al Abri, director general of CMA. “This is being achieved by comprehensive review and revision of CMA regulations to set benchmark for the ethical corporate behaviour,” added Mohamed Said Al Abri, in his address as chief guest at the 8th Annual International Conference on ‘Transformation and excellence with ethics’, organised by the Muscat Chapter of The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).

The event was attended by more

than 300 delegates from Oman and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. Guests of honour included Gloria Gangte, Charge De Affairs of Indian embassy; M. Devaraja Reddy, the president of ICAI and Dr Ahmed Mohsin Al Ghassani, the dean of College of Banking and Financial Studies (CBFS).

Chartered accountants While lauding the role of chartered accountants, Al Abri said: “I am pleased to acknowledge the role which chartered accountants play either as part of the management or in the role of auditors to formulate, implement and monitor overall ethical behaviour of the organisation where they work.”

Addressing the conference, Dr Ahmed Mohsin Al Ghassani also highlighted the importance of ethical behaviour in the overall benefit of the organisations and

the society.

The two-day conference hosted several technical speakers, researchers from Oman and overseas who presented their views on the subject including Ashok Haldia, the former secretary of ICAI; Adil Rao, the director of Deloitte; Chris Cain of PwC; Ahmed Ali Al Mukhaini of CMA; Dr Rama Subramaniam, Rajesh Vekiteshwaran of Vision Investments and R. Vittal Raj. Motivational session A motivational session titled ‘Being wthical, how difficult it is ? ” was also conducted by renowned motivation speaker and trainer Satish Mandora as part of the conference.

The dean of CBFS and ICAI president also signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on mutual cooperation at the event. A souvenir was released by guests to commemorate the conference.

MUSCAT: Changes to the UK real estate tax laws, which are of relevance to investors from the Middle East who invest in UK real estate property, were highlighted at a recent seminar conducted at Grand Hyatt here.

Organised by KPMG, a global network of professional firms providing audit, tax and advisory services, the seminar provided insights into the introduction of capital gains tax for non-UK residents owning residential property in the UK, levy of annual property tax on properties held through a corporate structure and changes in the stamp duty.

Speakers discussed all of these changes, which have made buying, owning and selling UK residential property a complex tax issue and it is important that property owners are appropriately advised on the structuring and financing of UK property ownership.

The seminar was attended by property owners, persons in charge of family offices, advisers and bankers. The tax rules affecting UK property have undergone substantial changes in the last three years.

Ashok Hariharan, partner and head of tax at KPMG, Lower Gulf said, “In a dynamic environment that we currently live in, it is imperative that house-owners and investors seek appropriate and timely advice before they take critical decisions while investing

NEW LAWS: The seminar provided insights into the introduction

of capital gains tax for non-UK residents owning residential property in the UK. – Supplied picture

in UK real estate.” “The taxman is constantly on the look-out for avenues to fill the revenue’s reserves so it is much more expensive, both in terms of time and cost, to migrate from a sub-optimal structure to an efficient one than to put in place, a feasible structure the first time,” he added.

Policy decisions Michael Walker, Partner in KPMG UK’s private client advisory team, set out the context of these changes and addressed the impact of policy decisions of the UK government on the UK property market.

“Public pressure on the government to address the housing crisis in the UK has led to a heightened focus on the taxation of residential property, particularly targeting high value properties.

This combined with intense global focus on transparency of the tax affairs of the wealthy has created a challenging environment for UK property owners that requires careful management,” he added.

Mariam Moi of KPMG guided attendees through the path that needs to be navigated through this now complex tax landscape. “The pace of change in property taxes in the UK has been ferocious in recent years, leaving purchasers both confused and concerned.

Even so the tax costs of investing in UK real estate remain globally competitive and demand for UK real estate remains high. The key to a successful transaction is careful planning and taking timely advice, and with more changes coming next year UK property owners should be reviewing their holding structures.”

B4

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

MARKET MSM index ends lower

OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ........................................5,912.34 .............. 5,890.45 ................... 5,890.45 ................... 5,914.62................-24.17 .................. -0.41 Financial Index .....................................7,572.93 ............... 7,525.41 ....................7,525.41 ................... 7,575.68................-50.27 .................. -0.66 Industrial Index .................................... 7,311.32 ...............7,273.63 ....................7,273.63 .................... 7,315.11................-41.48 .................. -0.57 Services Index .......................................3,273.65 ...............3,265.72 ................... 3,265.72 ................... 3,273.65...................-7.93 .................. -0.24 MSM SHARIAH INDEX....................... 887.57 ..................883.82 .......................884.19 ...................... 886.40.................. -2.21 .................. -0.25 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 9,664,904 .................... 2,417,774 .....................573 ................17,121,328,292 .................. 3 ..................... 22 ....................22 .........................47

Top gainer was Oman Telecommunications, up by 0.93 per cent. Al Hassan Engineering,

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR SUNDAY, MAY 29

down by 3.33 per cent, lost the most.

ISIN ......................................SECURITY NAME ..................................................................VOLUME..... TURNOVER............TRADES ......OPEN PRICE......HIGH ............. LOW ........ CLOSE PR. ...PREV. CLOSE...DIFF (RO).........DIFF % .............LAST PR.....LAST BID .............LAST OFFER ........MARKET CAP.PAR VALUE

MUSCAT: Shares on the Muscat bourse declined on profit booking on Sunday. The MSM30 Index retreated 0.41 per cent to close lower at 5,914.62 points, down by 0.27 per cent. The MSM Sharia Index fell by 0.25 per cent to close at 884.19 points.

Bank Sohar was most active in terms of volume, while Oman Cables was the most active in terms of turnover.

The top gainer was Oman Telecommunications Company, up by 0.93 per cent, while Al Hassan Engineering was the top loser, down by 3.33 per cent.

As many as 573 trades were executed today, generating turnover of OMR2.41million with 9.66 million shares changing hands.

Out of 47 traded securities, three advanced, 22 declined and 22 remained unchanged. Omani investors were net buyers to the tune of OMR175,000 followed

by GCC and Arab investors at OMR51,000. Foreign investors, who were net sellers, sold shares amounting to OMR225,000.

Financial Index closed at 7525.41 points, down by 0.66 per cent. Al Anwar Holding was the only gainer in the sector and was up by 0.87 per cent to close at OMR0.231. Muscat National Holding, Al Sharqiya Investment, Al Madina Takaful, HSBC Bank Oman and Oman United Insurance declined by 3.23 per cent, 2.84 per cent, 2.67 per cent, 1.87 per cent and 1.57 per cent, respectively.

Industrial Index fell by 0.57 per cent to close at 7,273.63 points.

National Alumininum was the only gainer and was up by 0.40 per cent to close at OMR0.250.

AlHassan Engineering, Construction Material Industries, Galfar Engineering and Oman Cables declined by 3.33 per cent, 3.13 per cent, 2.75 per cent and 2.47 per cent, respectively.

Services Index closed at 3,265.72 points, down by 0.24 per

cent. Omantel was the only gainer and was up by 0.93 per cent to close at OMR1.610. Renaissance Services, OIFC, Al Jazeera Services and Al Maha Petroleum declined by 2.08 per cent, 0.99 per cent, 0.87 per cent and 0.65 per cent, respectively.

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

OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION ..........................62,325 .......... 101,339......................11 ............1.610 ........... 1.630 ...........1.610 ............1.625 ............. 1.610.............0.015 ............. 0.932 ................1.610 ..............1.600................... 1.610 ................ 1,218,750,000 ......0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 568,116 .......... 131,266..................... 57 ........... 0.230 ...........0.233 ...........0.230............0.231 .............0.229 ........... 0.002............. 0.873 ................0.231 ..............0.231...................0.232 ..................34,667,325 .........0.100 OM0000001319 ............NATIONAL ALUMINIUM PRODUCTS ............. 200,000...........50,000......................14 ........... 0.250 ...........0.250 ...........0.250........... 0.250 .............0.249 ............0.001 .............0.402 ................0.250..............0.235...................0.249 ...................8,392,863 ..........0.100 OM0000001145 ............PORT SERVICES CORPORATION ........................... 1,200 .................. 288........................1 ........... 0.240...........0.240 ...........0.240 .......... 0.249 .............0.249 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.240 .............0.228...................0.248 ..................23,664,960.........0.100 OM0000001418 ............RAYSUT CEMENT ....................................................... 60,000 ............ 76,800......................11 ............1.280 ........... 1.280 ...........1.280........... 1.280 .............1.280 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................1.280..............1.280...................1.290................. 256,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000001822............UNITED POWER ................................................................. 351 ............... 1,074........................3 ........... 3.060 ...........3.060 ...........3.060........... 3.400 .............3.400 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................3.060............. 0.000...................3.260 ...................2,720,000 ..........1.000 OM0000001889............SALALAH MILLS............................................................. 1,300 ...............1,950........................2 ............1.500 ........... 1.500 ...........1.500........... 1.490 .............1.490............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.500............. 0.000...................1.480................... 71,762,965 .........0.100 OM0000001962............AL MADINA INVESTMENT ................................... 517,810 ............ 32,895......................21 ........... 0.063 ...........0.065 ...........0.063........... 0.064 .............0.064 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.063..............0.062...................0.064 .................. 13,257,689 .........0.100 OM0000002168............AL ANWAR CERAMIC TILES ...................................2,000 ..................540........................1 ........... 0.270 ...........0.270 ...........0.270........... 0.267 .............0.267 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.270..............0.262...................0.270 ..................79,089,053 .........0.100

Dubai stocks rise Dubai stocks gained a fifth day amid declining trading across Gulf Arab equity markets, with some investors taking a long weekend and the start of Ramadan about a week away.

The DFM General Index rose 0.3 per cent, capping the longest winning streak since September.

About 140 million shares were traded on the emirate’s main measure, less than half of the six-month average. Bloomberg’s GCC 200 Index, which tracks the biggest and most liquid stocks in the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council, fell 0.5 per cent, on course for its first monthly decline since January.

“The typical languid Sunday trading has been exacerbated by a holiday on Monday in the UK and US, causing western activity to be reduced further,” said Julian Bruce, the head of institutional trading at EFG-Hermes UAE in Dubai, a unit of the biggest publicly traded Arab investment bank. That may be “creating a calm-before-the-storm scenario, as MSCI emerging market outflows are anticipated on Tuesday, which would mean a significant uptick in activity before receding once again ahead of Ramadan,” he said.

MSCI., the global index provider tracked by 97 of the 100 biggest asset managers in the world, will at the end of the month adjust Chinese companies on its emerging-markets gauge. That may help spur as much as $157 million of outflows from stocks in Mena. region. - United Securities/Bloomberg news

OM0000002366 ...........AL BATINAH DEV. INV. HOLDING ....................... 54,300 ...............4,778........................3 ........... 0.088 ...........0.088 ...........0.088........... 0.088 .............0.088 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.088..............0.088...................0.091....................2,640,000..........0.100 OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 401,293 .........160,446..................... 45 ........... 0.400...........0.400 ...........0.398........... 0.400 .............0.400 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.398..............0.398...................0.400 .................998,500,103........0.100 OM0000002846 ...........GULF INV. SER. PREF SHARES ............................. 25,000 ...............2,750........................1 ............0.110 ........... 0.110............0.110 ............0.110 ............. 0.110............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.110 ............. 0.000...................0.110 ...................10,052,986 .........0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR................................................................ 1,444,648......255,605.....................20 ............0.176 ........... 0.177 ...........0.176 ............0.177 ............. 0.177............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.177 .............. 0.176...................0.177 ..................283,996,383 .......0.100 OM0000003661 ............VOLTAMP ENERGY ...........................................................929 ..................390........................3 ........... 0.420 ...........0.420 ...........0.420........... 0.420 .............0.420 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.420..............0.420...................0.430 ..................25,410,000 .........0.100 OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO.........................................................................55,000 .............41,312........................4 ............0.748 ........... 0.752 ...........0.748 ........... 0.752 ............. 0.752............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.752 ..............0.752...................0.760..................489,510,061 ........0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER ...................................................... 8,897 ...............1,922........................2 ............0.216 ........... 0.216 ...........0.216 ........... 0.216 .............0.216............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.216 ..............0.216...................0.220 ................. 154,311,769 ........0.100 OM0000001160 ............NATIONAL GAS .............................................................55,458 ............ 28,625........................9 ............0.518 ........... 0.518 ...........0.514 ............0.516 ............. 0.518............-0.002 ........... -0.386 ...............0.514 ..............0.510...................0.514...................28,380,000.........0.100 OM0000002176 ............AL JAZEERA STEEL PRODUCTS ........................ 517,442 .......... 108,017.....................42 ........... 0.208........... 0.212 ...........0.206 .......... 0.209 .............0.210 ...........-0.001 ........... -0.476 ...............0.208..............0.207...................0.208 ..................26,103,674 .........0.100 OM0000003000 ...........ALMAHA PETROLEUM PRODUCTS MAR. ....... 19,050 ............ 29,242........................3 ............1.535 ........... 1.535............1.535 ............1.535 ............. 1.545............-0.010 ........... -0.647 ...............1.535 ...............1.515...................1.535 ..................105,915,000 ........0.100 OM0000001533 ............OMINVEST ..................................................................... 20,000 .............11,320........................1 ........... 0.566 ........... 0.566 ...........0.566........... 0.566 .............0.570 ...........-0.004 ........... -0.702 ...............0.566..............0.550...................0.566..................359,857,643 ........0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS ............ 438,589 ......... 109,847..................... 26 ........... 0.256 ...........0.256 ...........0.250........... 0.250 .............0.252 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.794 ...............0.250..............0.249...................0.252 ...................5,250,000 ..........0.100 OM0000002226 ...........AL JAZEERA SERVICES ............................................94,261 ............. 21,515..................... 10 ........... 0.230 ...........0.230 ...........0.227........... 0.228 .............0.230 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.870 ...............0.227..............0.226...................0.227 ..................13,954,574 .........0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 427,921.............85,581..................... 23 ........... 0.202...........0.202 ...........0.199 ........... 0.200 .............0.202 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.990 ...............0.199 .............. 0.197...................0.200 ................. 40,000,000 ........0.100 OM0000002200 ...........AHLI BANK .................................................................... 114,000 ...........20,292........................7 ............0.178 ........... 0.178 ...........0.178 ............0.178 .............0.180 ...........-0.002 ............-1.111 ................0.178 .............. 0.175...................0.178 ..................253,656,434........0.100 OM0000001483............NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN ...................................39,506 .............10,074........................2 ........... 0.255 ........... 0.255 ...........0.255........... 0.255 .............0.258 ...........-0.003 ............-1.163................0.255..............0.250...................0.255..................376,069,225........0.100 OM0000001749 ............OMAN CEMENT ........................................................... 54,200 ............ 26,066........................4 ........... 0.482 ...........0.482 ...........0.480........... 0.480 .............0.486 ...........-0.006 ............-1.235................0.480..............0.478...................0.480 .................158,818,901 ........0.100 OM0000001087............OMAN UNITED INSURANCE .................................10,000 ...............2,510........................2 ............0.251 ........... 0.251 ...........0.251 ............0.251 .............0.255 ...........-0.004 ............-1.569................0.251 .............. 0.251...................0.260 ..................25,100,000.........0.100 OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN ......................................................15,000 ............... 1,575........................1 ............0.105 ........... 0.105 ...........0.105 ........... 0.105 .............0.107............-0.002 ........... -1.869................0.105 ..............0.105...................0.107..................210,032,843........0.100 OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES ..................................... 381,927 ......... 107,925......................17 ........... 0.285 ...........0.288 ...........0.280 .......... 0.283 .............0.289 ...........-0.006 ........... -2.076 ...............0.280..............0.275...................0.280 ..................82,254,239.........0.100 OM0000001707 ............OMAN CABLES INDUSTRY.................................... 391,538..........696,938..................... 33 ............1.780 ........... 1.780............1.780 ............1.780 ............. 1.825............-0.045 ........... -2.466 ...............1.780 .............. 1.780...................1.800..................159,666,000........0.100 OM0000004768 ...........AL MADINA TAKAFUL................................................77,112 ...............5,706........................5 ........... 0.074 ........... 0.074 ...........0.074........... 0.074 .............0.076 ...........-0.002 ........... -2.632 ...............0.074..............0.074...................0.075...................12,950,000.........0.100 OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. .................. 1,361,549 ......144,980..................... 73 ............0.108 ........... 0.108 ...........0.105 ........... 0.106 .............0.109 ...........-0.003 ........... -2.752 ...............0.105 ..............0.105...................0.107...................30,737,948 .........0.100 OM0000002440 ...........AL SHARQIA INVESTMENT HOLDING ........... 194,128............ 26,648..................... 28 ............0.140 ........... 0.140 ...........0.136 ............0.137 ............. 0.141............-0.004 ........... -2.837 ...............0.136 .............. 0.135...................0.136...................12,330,000.........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 7,614,850 .. 2,300,218...................485 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......33........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

OM0000001228............OMAN HOTELS AND TOURISM ..................................550 .................. 372........................1 ............0.676 ........... 0.676 ...........0.676............0.616 ............. 0.616............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.676............. 0.000...................0.672...................33,880,000.........0.100 OM0000001301 ............DHOFAR CATTLE FEED ..................................................569 .................. 129........................1 ........... 0.226 ...........0.226 ...........0.226........... 0.225 .............0.225 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.226............. 0.000...................0.226 .................. 18,191,250 .........0.100 OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES .......................................................84,057 ...............5,035........................8 ........... 0.060 ...........0.060 ...........0.059........... 0.060 .............0.060 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.059..............0.059...................0.060 ...................7,500,000 ..........0.100 OM0000002267 ...........GULF MUSHROOM PRODUCTS .................................160 .....................54........................1 ........... 0.336 ...........0.336 ...........0.336........... 0.336 .............0.336 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.336............. 0.000...................0.336................... 11,553,199 .........0.100 OM0000002333 ...........SALALAH PORT SERVICES .......................................... 700 ..................434........................1 ........... 0.620 ...........0.620 ...........0.620........... 0.648 .............0.648 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.620............. 0.000...................0.616 ..................116,534,635 ........0.100 OM0000004511 ............ALIZZ ISLAMIC BANK................................................64,700 ...............3,698........................2 ........... 0.057 ...........0.058 ...........0.057........... 0.057 .............0.057 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.058..............0.057...................0.058...................57,000,000.........0.100 OM0000004776 ...........TAKAFUL OMAN INSURANCE ................................3,000 .................. 369........................2 ............0.123 ........... 0.123 ...........0.123 ........... 0.120 .............0.120 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.123 ...............0.111...................0.123...................12,000,000.........0.100 OM0000005963 ...........PHOENIX POWER ........................................................ 92,113 .............14,154......................14 ............0.154 ........... 0.154 ...........0.153 ........... 0.154 ............. 0.155............-0.001 ........... -0.645 ...............0.154 .............. 0.153...................0.155 ................. 225,240,625 .......0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 753,291.............56,661......................19 ........... 0.076 ........... 0.076 ...........0.075........... 0.075 .............0.076 ...........-0.001 ............-1.316................0.075..............0.075...................0.076..................112,500,000........0.100 OM0000001368 ............CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS IND. .................. 1,001,682 .........31,085..................... 27 ........... 0.032 ...........0.032 ...........0.031 ............0.031 .............0.032 ...........-0.001 ............-3.125................0.031 ..............0.030...................0.031....................2,635,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001806............MUSCAT NATIONAL HOLDING ..................................750 ...............1,350........................1 ............1.800 ........... 1.800 ...........1.800........... 1.800 .............1.860............-0.060 ........... -3.226 ...............1.800............. 0.000...................1.800....................9,000,000 ..........1.000 OM0000002564 ...........AL HASSAN ENGINEERING....................................47,093 ...............4,075........................9 ........... 0.086 ...........0.089 ...........0.086........... 0.087 .............0.090 ...........-0.003 ........... -3.333 ...............0.089..............0.087...................0.089....................6,543,096 ..........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 2,048,665....... 117,415..................... 86 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......12........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BONDS AND SUKUK MARKET ......................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000004867 ...........BANK MUSCAT C C B 4.5 .................................................754 .....................80........................1 ............0.106 ........... 0.106 ...........0.106........... 0.106 .............0.106 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.106..............0.106...................0.110 ...................33,882,124 .........0.100 OM0000005971 ............B.MUSCAT COMPL. CONVR. B.B.3.5 ...........................635 .....................61........................1 ........... 0.096 ...........0.096 ...........0.096........... 0.096 .............0.096 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.096..............0.096...................0.100....................31,119,515..........0.100 .............................................SUM: .......................................................................................1,389 ...................141........................2 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ........2........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AUTOMOTIVE

INSURANCE

< FROM

Ford India to spend Rs2b on brand campaign amid severe competition NEW DELHI: Ford India has lined up a more than Rs2 billion multi-media brand campaign to woo customers and strengthen its position in the domestic market where its best-selling sports utility vehicle (SUV) model EcoSport has been pushed out of top-five list by Maruti’s Vitara Brezza.

The automaker, which has also witnessed sluggish demand for its hatchback Figo and compact sedan Figo Aspire, is seeking to highlight its after-sales and service quality and customer-friendly steps through the campaign.

Global Team Ford, a unit of WPP, is responsible for the campaign. “The budget lined up for the campaign is over Rs2 billion,” a source said.

When contacted, Ford India spokesperson said: “Aligning with Ford’s vision of ‘Go Further’, the new campaign encompasses the entire gamut of Ford portfolio of products and services, promising trust and transparency as experi-

enced being part of a family.”

Ford India had recently slashed price of its compact SUV EcoSport by up to Rs1,12,000, in order to compete with the likes of Maruti Suzuki’s Vitara Brezza.

While Brezza has leaped to the second position in utility vehicle sales in April with 7,832 unit sales, EcoSport could not make it to the list of top five models. It stood fifth with 3,911 unit sales in same period of the previous year.

Similarly, sales of next-generation hatchback Figo and compact sedan Figo Aspire remained sluggish in the domestic market with a total of 2,211 units sold in April.

Under a new initiative, Ford has introduced a host of measures at its dealerships and service touch points to support on-ground delivery and to strengthen relationships with the customers.

To offer better services to its customers, the company has also

introduced a service price calculator on its website. “The price promise allows customers to know the cost of periodic maintenance even before booking the service at a Ford dealership. It enables customers to carry a print out of the calculated web quote, ensuring complete trust and transparency in their service experience at any Ford dealership,” the spokesperson said.

Customers can also check the price of parts at Ford India website. The company is focusing on ensuring availability of its parts through a network of authorised parts distributors across the country, covering Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Delhi, Hyderabad, Telangana, Karnataka, among others.

“In the next phase, the expansion will see retail distribution getting launched in Gujarat, West Bengal, Rajasthan,” the spokesperson said. The company is facing enhanced competition in the domestic market. - PTI

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Motor insurance witnesses highest percentage of claims

As far as the foreign insurance companies are concerned, the gross paid claims were OMR58.77 million, a growth of 11 per cent in 2015 from the previous year’s level. Motor insurance witnessed the highest percentage in claims paid by national and foreign insurers last year at 36 per cent and 53 per cent, respectively.

Motor insurance comprised 37 per cent of the entire insurance sector’s premiums, while health insurance constituted 23 per centof the gross written premiums.Also, the contribution of insurance sector to the gross domestic product of the Sultanate was 1.4 per cent last year.

The total assets of the Sultanate’s insurance companies have edged up by 2 per cent to OMR777.98 million last year compared to the previous year’s level of OMR761.40 million. The growth was due to an increase in the assets of the foreign insurance companies by 6 per cent in 2015 to reach OMR242.73 million compared to OMR228.43 million in the previous year.

Total assets of Oman's insurance companies have edged up by 2 per cent to OMR777.98m last year compared to the previous year’s level of OMR761.40 million

The Sultanate has 36 insurance brokerage firms and 22 insurance companies, which are a mix of locally incorporated firms and foreign firms. National companies represent the largest portion of the insurance market in the Sultanate of Oman.

The net profit of insurance companies was OMR15.57 million, fell by 40 per cent from OMR26.13 million.

B

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

SECTION

END CALL SAVE LIVES

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A TIMES OF OMAN HANDS-FREE DRIVING INITIATIVE

IMES TECH STUFF

MICROSOFT AND FACEBOOK TEAM UP

Microsoft and Facebook are teaming up to build an subsea cable in the Atlantic Ocean to deliver fast online and cloud services to customers of both companies. The cable, designed to have a bandwidth of as much as 160 terabytes per second, will be the highest capacity one of its kind under the Atlantic, the companies said in a statement on Thursday. — Bloomberg News

T E C H U P D AT E S

Jawbone decides to end tracker production, to sell speakers

Google puts pressure on its tardy partners Google is getting serious about remedying what ails Android, and it is using both carrots and sticks to get partners to keep the world’s most popular mobile operating system more up to date.

JACK CLARK & SCOTT MORITZ

G

ETTING phone makers and carriers to update to the latest version of Android has been one of the thorniest challenges facing Google as it tries to widen the use of its mobile software and generate more sales from its apps and web services.

Now, Google is getting serious about remedying what ails Android, and it’s using both carrots and sticks to get partners to keep the world’s most popular mobile operating system more up to date.

The issue — a mishmash of different smartphones running outdated software lacking the latest security and features — has plagued Android since its debut in 2007.

But Google has stepped up its efforts recently, accelerating security updates, rolling out technology workarounds and reducing phone testing requirements.

The Alphabet unit is also getting tougher, drawing up rankings that could shame some phone makers

into better behaviour, according to people familiar with the situation.

Keeping Android fresh and unified is crucial because that’s how Google delivers its money-making search engine and new offerings, like the Daydream virtual reality system, in an increasingly mobile world. This only works when phone makers and wireless carriers quickly update devices to newer versions of the operating system.

So far, that’s not happening, creating “fragmentation” in industry lingo — which means new Google features, like last year’s Now on Tap and fixes for now-infamous Stagefright software bugs, only reach a fraction of Android’s active user base of 1.4 billion.

If Google doesn’t fix this, it may struggle to compete with Apple.

As smartphones get more capable, complex and hackable, having the latest software work closely with the hardware is increasingly important. Apple designs both, giving it more control over when and how its operating system is loaded onto iPhones. The result: 84 per cent of Apple’s mobile devices run the latest iOS software, compared with 7.5 per cent of Android devices that run Marshmallow, the newest Android OS. “It’s not an ideal situation,” said Android chief Hiroshi Lockheimer at Google’s I/O developer conference last week, while describing the lack of updates as “the weakest link on security on Android.”

Consumers and regulators are unsatisfied too. A Dutch consumer group sued Samsung Electronics, the largest Android phone maker, in January for neglecting to update many devices. In the US, the Federal Communications Commission sent a letter to carriers, manufacturers, Apple and Google asking how they can ensure faster updates.

Google is making progress persuading phone makers and carriers to install security updates quicker “for the good of users,” Lockheimer said. The same expedited process may then be used to send operating

system updates to phones, he explained. The most challenging discussions are with carriers, which can be slow to approve updates because they test them thoroughly to avoid network disruption. Verizon Communications Inc.’s tests can take months, according to a former employee of the largest US wireless provider. It has shaved a few weeks off at the behest of Google and customers, the person said. Shortening it further is difficult because Verizon supports so many different Android phones, which must be tested before updates go live, the person added. Albert Aydin, a Verizon spokesman, said the company works closely with all partners throughout the process, but declined to comment specifically on Google. Sprint has cut its approval process from as long as 12 weeks to “a few weeks,” said Ryan Sullivan, vice president of product development at the carrier.

Stagefright response Stagefright, which left almost a billion devices vulnerable to being taken over by hackers, shook the Android ecosystem and prodded Google into leading by example.

Soon after, the company started releasing monthly Android security patches, which it sent to its Nexus devices. These are designed by Google, giving it Apple-like control over updates. Other Android handset makers, including LG Electronics and Samsung, committed to monthly updates, but have struggled to keep to that schedule for all their phones.

Smaller Android phone makers didn’t even attempt the monthly goal. HTC executive Jason Mackenzie called it “unrealistic” last year. Motorola previously tried to get handsets three years old or newer patched twice a year. It’s now aiming for quarterly updates, according to a person familiar with the situation.

Google is trying to persuade carriers to exclude its security patches from the full series of tests, which

can cost several hundred thousand dollars for each model, according to an executive at a leading Android handset maker.

“Google has come a long way since Stagefright,” said Joshua Drake, a senior researcher at mobile security firm Zimperium. But it’s still a struggle because some carriers don’t treat security as a priority, while phone makers have other incentives, such as selling new devices, he added.

Pressuring partners Google is using more forceful tactics. It has drawn up lists that rank top phone makers by how upto-date their handsets are, based on security patches and operating system versions, according to people familiar with the matter.

Google shared this list with Android partners earlier this year. It has discussed making it public to highlight proactive manufacturers and shame tardy vendors through omission from the list, two of the people said. The people didn’t want to be identified to maintain their relationships with Google.

“Google is putting pressure on,” said Sprint’s Sullivan, who has seen data that Google uses to track who is falling behind. “Since we are the final approval, we are applying pressure because our customers are expecting it.”

Google is reducing its reliance on the update process too. New features, such as the Allo messaging service, now often come out as standalone apps, rather than part of a new version of the Android operating system. Google can refresh these without carrier tests.

It’s also making some new features compatible with earlier versions of the operating system.

Instant Apps, unveiled last week, works on phones running versions as old as Jellybean, which came out in 2012. This means 95 per cent of Android users will get access to the technology, which lets people test apps before deciding whether to download them. — Bloomberg News

Jawbone is set to be a much smaller company, according to reports that it’s ending production of its fitness trackers and seeking buyers for its speaker business. The closely held company has put its speaker business up for sale, Fortune said on Friday, citing anonymous sources, in a report on its website. Later, Tech Insider reported that Jawbone has stopped production of its fitness trackers and sold its remaining inventory to a third-party reseller. Tech Insider also attributed its story to unidentified sources familiar with the matter. A spokeswoman for Beverly Hills, California-based Jawbone declined to comment on the reports, but said the company isn’t selling the fitness-tracking business outright. Jawbone and Fitbit , pioneers in activity trackers, have struggled to grow as competition picks up in the wearable-technology market, an industry that tech giants including Apple and Google have set their sights on. In November, Jawbone cut 60 employees, or 15 per cent of its workforce and closed its New York office. Jawbone started early and was strong in the speaker and fitness-tracker markets, but suffered as it was undercut by cheaper competitors and the products became easily replicated, said Chris Jones, chief analyst at Canalys. With Jawbone’s speakers, “it became pretty clear that was not really a sustainable market to be in profitably,” Jones said.

— Bloomberg News

Snapchat valued at $18 billion in funding round Snapchat, an app for sending disappearing messages, was valued at $18 billion after its latest round of funding, said a person familiar with the matter.

The financing pads the startup’s war chest as it attempts to evolve from a teen phenomenon into a mainstream media platform. The funding round totaled $1.8 billion, according to a regulatory filing on Thursday with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The amount includes about $650 million raised last year and an additional $1.2 billion this year, said the person, who asked not to be named because the details are private.

More investors are looking for a piece of Snapchat as the company develops its business. The Venice, California, start-up relies on advertising to users who watch videos compiled by its staff and those from media brands. Snapchat generated revenue of $59 million last year, and the company projects that number to rise more than fourfold this year, said the person familiar with the matter. Snapchat opened its funding round last year by selling shares valuing the company at $16 billion, Bloomberg reported at the time. Investors in the round include Fidelity Investments, General Atlantic and Sequoia Capital, the person said. Mary Ritti, a spokeswoman for Snapchat, declined to comment. TechCrunch earlier reported details of the fundraising. — Bloomberg News

Tencent Holdings shares soar Tencent Holdings shared soared to a record in Hong Kong as investors speculate a potential link with the Shenzhen exchange will spur China’s biggest gaming and messaging company higher. The shares jumped 4.5 per cent to HK$171.20, the highest close since its 2004 initial public offering. Trading volumes were about 2.4 times the daily average of the past three months. Tencent, which reported record earnings last week, surged in 2015 after the successful start of a link between Hong Kong’s equity market and the Shanghai Stock Exchange fueled purchases by mainland investors. Speculation has been building China could announce a start date for a similar arrangement with the Shenzhen bourse of July 1, said Kevin Tam, an analyst at Core Pacific-Yamaichi International Hong Kong Ltd. “The market is speculatively buying on Shenzhen link today,” Tam said by phone. “People are speculating a start on July 1. Tencent is also digesting better-than-expected first quarter earnings.” Tencent, which is based in Shenzhen, is in talks to buy a majority stake in gamemaker Supercell Oy from SoftBank Group Corp., the Wall Street Journal has reported. Supercell would boost sales in games and also Tencent’s advertising business, ICBC International Research Ltd. analyst Yu Jianpeng said by phone. Yu said Tencent is the best investment choice in Hong Kong’s listed Internet sector.

Games are among Tencent’s biggest businesses. — Bloomberg News

B6

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

ROUND-UP DR MOHAMMED ABDUL KARIM AL SHAHI

Bait Al Zubair appoints prominent poet as its new GM MUSCAT: Bait Al Zubair Foundation has appointed Dr Mohammed Abdul Karim Al Shahi as its new general manager. Being a prominent poet of the country, Al Shahi brings a wealth of experience from Oman’s cultural sector.

Bait Al Zubair Foundation, the cultural arm of The Zubair Corporation (Z-Corp), has been steadfastly devoted to preserving and advancing Oman’s heritage and continues to be a key player in this quest. Established in 2005 to manage Bait Al Zubair Museum and other projects relating to culture, arts, history, archaeology and the community, the Foundation actively promotes traditional and contemporary Omani culture.

The appointment of Al Shahi is

part of Z-Corp’s commitment to support Omani talent and encourage them to take up leadership roles in the private sector. Z-Corp remains dedicated to identifying and promoting Omani talent and developing a foundation for future leaders, says a press release.

While Al Shahi’s appointment demonstrates this commitment, Z-Corp is confident that with his experience, he will continue to drive forward Bait Al Zubair Foundation’s vision. With his deep understanding of Oman’s tradition and culture, Z-Corp is confident that he will bring a compelling vision and perspective to Bait Al Zubair Foundation.

Expressing happiness over the appointment, Al Shahi said, “I am

honoured to be joining the Bait Al Zubair Foundation, one of Sultanate’s key institutions that has been promoting Omani art and culture while fostering knowledge. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to build on a strong foundation established by my predecessors. I look forward to working with talented colleagues to cultivate the continued growth and evolution.

I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside talented Omani artists at the Foundation towards our shared goal of developing the cultural landscape of Oman.”

He hopes to encourage and enable a new generation of Omani artists to establish a name locally and do well on an international level.

Prior to joining Bait Al Zubair

GMC Ramadan offers get stronger year after year The GMC automotive franchise strives to offer its customers the best deals with an outstanding value for money coupled with attractive gifts and privileges in its month long promotion

MUSCAT: This Ramadan, Moosa Abdul Rahman has gone bigger and better with its exclusive offers that are sure to attract potential buyers looking to own a GMC, a brand that exemplifies strength, comfort and durability.

The GMC automotive franchise strives to offer its customers the best deals with an outstanding value for money coupled with attractive gifts and privileges in its month long promotion, says a press release.

Customers have a lot to look forward to by investing in a purchase of a GMC vehicle which includes a complimentary installation of 3M

sun control film on select models and 500 litres of petrol or OMR77 worth with the purchase of each vehicle. In addition, each buyer will be entitled to 30,000km service, five years unlimited kilometre warranty, three years roadside assistance and complimentary registration on all models. An added benefit is that all GMC vehicles only need to be serviced at intervals of 10,000km. To top it, purchase of selected models will be accompanied with a 40-inch Samsung LED TV and OMR100 Lulu gift vouchers.

“Our customers have always been more than satisfied with the excellent performance, comfort and dependability of every GMC vehicle, skilfully crafted to meet different terrains while delivering a smooth driving experience. The alluring privileges this Ramadan just adds to the entire array of benefits,” said Virendra Agarwal CEO, Moosa Abdul Rahman & Co. One of the features available on all GMC models that has been very

popular with the tech savvy customers, is the colour touch navigation radio with touch-screen control that incorporates all of IntelliLink to deliver segmentexclusive infotainment technology, seamlessly integrating the capability of a smartphone into the vehicle. It also features upgraded USB connectivity that adds to the ability to play music files directly from flash memory and provides the option to update IntelliLink with future feature enhancements.

Specific to each model, the unprecedented GMC offers are led by Acadia, a spacious 8-seater that includes rear view camera, Intellink Bluetooth, parking sensors, remote start and cooling as well as cruise control as standard features. The starting price of OMR11,995 for a SLE brings GMC within reach of those inspiring to own this popular SUV. Other than free registration, 30,000km service and five years extended warranty with unlimited mileage, the ‘never before offer’ also includes 500L petrol or equiv-

alent of OMR77. On certain variants of Acadia, customers will also be entitled to a 40-inch LED TV. Denali, the high end range of Acadia, is a much coveted vehicle.

Yet another power-packed performer, the Terrain, starts at OMR8,995 for 2.4L SLE that takes the SUV to a new level of affordability. Among the most recognisable SUVs on the road to date are the iconic Yukon and Yukon XL from OMR16,995 onwards that have always incorporated something new and better with each new generation delivering greater capability and refinement through new and enhanced chassis and suspension systems.

The Sierra line-up is led by the light duty Sierra 1500 Regular Cab Work Truck 4.3L at a very attractive price starting from OMR11,995. Complementing the line-up is the Sierra 1500 Regular Cab 5.3L at OMR13,995. Available in Double Cab, Crew Cab and Denali variants, the pickup offers the longest list of standard features ever seen in a full-size pickup.

Each model of GMC caters to a different segment of customers and the special prices during the promotion have made Ramadan one of the best times to buy and truly experience the joy of driving in comfort.

Moosa Abdul Rahman Hassan & Co is the exclusive distributor of GMC vehicles in the Sultanate of Oman with branches and a service network that covers all major locations across Oman.

Foundation, Al Shahi worked in the Ministry of Education as a deputy manager in high secondary school division. He has also worked as general manager of National Youth Commission and at the State Council as a consultant in the chairman office.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Sultan Qaboos University, MBA-HRM degree from Liverpool University. He was awarded PhD in business and management from London-based Brunei University.

Al Shahi who shares a keen interest in art, literature, poetry, and philosophy has a won a number of prizes and awards in different poetry festivals and competition in Oman and other countries in

the region. He is also a member in many national level committees such as the central committee of studies and researches in the Ministry of Culture and Heritage and also the lyrics and poems committee in the Ministry of Culture.

Al Shahi has been a jury member on many occasions in events such as the Literary Forum Competition in 2006 and the eighth Omani Poetry Festival in 2012. He is also a member of the consultant team in Sharq/ Gharb (monthly cultural magazine).

Al Shahi takes over from Paul Doubleday who has been general manager of the foundation since 2014. Al Shahi hopes to carry out the mission of foundation with earnestness.

H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

Art of Living set to hold yoga sessions at Indian Embassy MUSCAT: To promote healthy living, Hasan Tafti, senior faculty of Art of Living is conducting yoga sessions at the Indian Embassy auditorium on June 3 and 4 from 4.30 to 5.30pm as a precursor to International Day of Yoga to be celebrated on June 21.

The yoga sessions will include simple yoga asanas, pranayams and meditation as per the yoga protocol given by the Government of India. It has been scientifically proven that regular practice of yoga can significantly reduce stress levels, boost immunity and help promote physical and mental well-being.

“Yoga helps one to overcome stress and relax body and mind.

All are welcome to join the sessions and benefit from it,” said an official. The Art of Living is promoting healthy living through the practices of yoga and meditation in more than 150 countries. These sessions are an Art of Living’s initiative to create awareness about yoga and create interest in its practice for a healthier and happier living. It will highlight the benefits and practice of yoga in a simple and joyful manner. Various postures having benefits in chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, obesity can be learnt and practiced regularly to help contain the usage of medicinal drugs.

However yoga is not just doing some body-twisting postures. It is also known to ease stress and give some peace of mind besides

These sessions are an Art of Living’s initiative to create awareness about yoga and create interest in its practice for a healthier and happier living

increasing one’s levels of concentration and intuition. Various yoga postures stimulate almost every system in one’s body - the cardiovascular system (keeping the heart strong), the digestive system as well as the nervous system. It regulates endocrinal system leading to better metabolism and absorption of nutrition. It also makes glands like the thyroid, parathyroid and pituitary glands function normally. “Besides making you look young through better cell rejuvenation, it also burns excess calories and tones the body.

It is an excellent alternative to caffeine and other stimulants. If you have trouble sleeping at night, these will help you fall asleep without using any external stimulants. Those interested can register at 97455876 / 96770304.”

RAMADAN PROMO

CHALLENGING

Special offer on Mercedes-Benz E 300 Avantgarde AMG Sport

PSM junior school organises Mega Minds quiz competition MUSCAT: The Mega Minds quiz competition was held in the Junior School of Pakistan School Muscat recently.

Ataullah Niazi, senior principal, was the chief guest of the event.

PSM principal Khalid Jadoon and Munazza Ghafoor, junior school principal, attended the event along with students and teachers, says a press release.

The junior school students from the age group 6 - 9 years participated in this competition. A thorough procedure was followed in the selection process to keep this competition challenging and transparent. The competent students were selected and trained by the teachers and parents to excel in their learning. The goal of this competition was to build the confidence and sense of competition

and learning among the students.

A welcome address was given by Munazza in which she highlighted the importance of such competitions and their aims. She encouraged the teachers and students to engage in more mental extracurricular activities and competitions so the students can grow mentally and intellectually.

Five rounds There were five rounds in the Mega Minds quiz competition in which the students from five houses, namely Jinnah House, Iqbal House, Sir Syed House, Johar House and Arfa Karim House participated enthusiastically and demonstrated their higher order thinking skills. Five rounds of Q&A were held. The first round was the ‘Individual Round’, second ‘Team

Round’, the third ‘Mental Gymnastic Round’, the fourth in reference to Mathematics, ‘Al Beruni Round’, whereas the final round was ‘Isaac Newton Round’.

The students participated in this closely fought competition enthusiastically, demonstrating their intellect and knowledge. The first position was secured by the students of Johar House, whereas the students of Jinnah House stood as runners-up.

In the end, all participants were appreciated and awarded with certificates. Trophies were given to the winners and runners-up by Ataullah Niazi along with Khalid and Munazza.

Participants from Arfa Karim House of the Centre of Special Education were awarded with the consolation prize.

MUSCAT: For the first time ever, Mercedes-Benz Oman is offering the dynamic and stylish 2016 E 300 Avantgarde AMG Sport for the incredible price of OMR24,995.

Running in tandem with its Ramadan offer until June 30, buyers of the renowned sedan will receive an impressive upgraded five-year or 105,000 kilometre service package, as well as three years unlimited mileage warranty, Mobilo on road assistance, free registration and V-KOOL heat control film. New owners of the E 300 will also be automatically entered into a draw to win a brand new A 250, says a press release.

“It is with great pleasure that we have been able to create this very special promotion on one of our most popular vehicles this Ramadan,” said Clive Hammond CEO Mercedes-Benz Oman. “A perfect expression of the Mercedes-Benz philosophy of ‘The Best or Nothing’, the E-Class impresses from the very first second with its outstanding comfort and exceptional agility, motivating both spirit and senses with its serene driving experience.”

Bold athletic sedan, the E 300 Avantgarde AMG Sport boasts an expressive exterior design and a rich refined trend-setting cabin with a wealth of luxury appoint-

ments and high-end trims.

As with all Mercedes-Benz vehicles, innovative technology is a hallmark of the E-Class and, in this regard, it features a suite of state-of-the-art navigation and entertainment systems that operate with intuitive ease.

The standard-setting E 300 also benefits from a host of advanced comfort and safety features, including radar-based collision prevention assist.

The Mercedes-Benz worldleading engineering means not only self-assured agility and toplevel economy but also intense performance, for a unique sense of driving pleasure.

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BankDhofar bags coveted award from Asian Banker BankDhofar received the award for ‘Best Mobile Banking Implementation in the Middle East’

DUBAI: BankDhofar has received an award for ‘Best Mobile Banking Implementation in the Middle East’ by The Asian Banker in recognition of its continuous efforts to lead the financial market in the Sultanate by providing best customer experience through state-of-the-art technology and implementation of cutting-edge ebanking solutions.

The award was received by Marwan Mohammed Al Zadjali, executive manager - eBanking at BankDhofar, during the Middle East & Africa International Banking Convention that was held recently at the Ritz Carlton DIFC in Dubai, says a press release.

Upon receiving the award, Marwan highlighted BankDhofar’s strategic vision to lead the banking sector in the Sultanate and

the wider Gulf area through the use of technology and innovation, providing the best customer experience and contributing to the development of the financial sector in Oman.

“We are very delighted to be part of this convention that brought together elite bankers from across Middle East and Africa. It was a great opportunity for us to network with regional and global banks and financial institutions, and to present ourselves as industry leaders in the local and regional markets.”

The Asian Banker Technology Implementation Awards Programme provides the undisputed benchmark of the technology implementation in an increasingly

competitive business environment. Every year the programme evaluates a substantial range of innovative banking solutions that demonstrate how technology can deliver significant benefits to the financial industry.

“BankDhofar has been a leader in the market, providing best-inclass products and services for customers nationwide. We have been committed to embrace creativity and innovation, and we aspire to lead with technology and best banking solutions in the region,” noted Al Zadjali.

To further enrich its customer experience, BankDhofar continuously enhances its electronic banking channels and offers a wide ar-

B7

ray of banking options through its online banking and mobile banking solutions. The ground-breaking Touch ID Access feature in the mobile application adds to the security of mobile banking while using compatible iPhones and iPads, allowing customers to authenticate their login and transaction details by fingerprint recognition.

Moreover, the exclusive flagship ‘Card-less Cash’ service allows customers to use their mobile phone as an ATM card where they can have access their accounts and withdraw cash from any BankDhofar ATM. BankDhofar also offers a wide range of instant mobile banking services such as instant connection to accounts and cards details, debit card limit increase, instant payment of utility bills and mobile top-up options, instant credit card due payment, location of nearest ATM, CDM and branches, instant money transfer to any third party’s account within BankDhofar, updated currency exchange rates, instant update on promotions and new products and services.

The mobile app also allows customers to view account details and check the balance in all their accounts, view last 10 transactions (mini-statement), view up to 150 transaction under statements with opening and closing balances.

AC T I V E PA R T I C I PAT I O N

ODC takes part in Oman International Dental Conference MUSCAT: The 18th Oman International Dental Conference saw great involvement from Oman Dental College’s (ODC) faculty and student body.

Faculty members participated as speakers, having created five out of the 10 final presentations.

While ex-ODC students were an integral part of the conference’s organisation committee, faculty members conducted several workshops, says a press release.

The conference invited Professor Dayananda Samarawickrama to deliver the keynote speech to an audience of international dental professionals. In this role, the professor conducted two lectures. Samarawickrama is an Emeritus professor of Conservative Dentistry at famed institution, Queen Mary University London, and a visiting professor to Oman Dental College.

Samarawickrama commented: “The quality of this conference was comparable to any of the top international conferences I have attended in the past. ODC’s active scientific and practical participation in the organisation and facilitation of the conference displayed the high quality of education its students receive on a daily basis. ODC students projected confidence and competence, and held their own amongst the many professionals in the room.”

Dr Rahul Arora, dean of ODC, added: “ODC was pleased to have supported Oman Dental Society for the conference. We fully support and endorse the continuation of such activities, which are vital to the on-going development of the dental profession for the Omani public.”

LET’S READ PROGRAMME

Dar Al Atta’a honours winners of writing contest MUSCAT: Reading is one of the best things that we must be keen to indulge in from a young age. Reading is also as important as anything we do in our daily routine. It gives us energy, stimulates our brains, opens the doors of knowledge and draws our attention to things unknown to us before.

In order for everyone to keep on reading while he or she is an adult, such good habit should be established from a young age. Undoubtedly, what we get used to doing in childhood, lasts till old age.

From this perspective comes the idea of ‘Let’s Read’ programme from Dar Al Atta’a Association, where a ceremony was recently held at Qurum Commercial Centre, celebrating the end of the 10th session of story writing contest, says a press release.

The contest aims to help demonstrate the talent of creative writing of private and public school students between the ages of 11 and 18 years, to create stories which take place in Oman in both Arabic and English.

The competition jury set a number of criteria, including one that calls for the story containing a fascinating character and comes in an

interesting context. In addition to eloquence, the jury also demanded the story spanned a maximum of 500 words, and be suitable for children between the age of 5 to 7 years. The total number of participants this year was 107 students from several schools in the Sultanate, and the awards were classified into individual category and collective category.

The individual category winners were: First: Ujala Rajgariha (11 years), Indian School Al Ghubra Second: Mazen Al Busaidi (12

RECRUIT

years), Ahmed bin Nadhir School - Samail.

Third: Sally Hall (14 years) from British School Muscat.

The collective category winners included: Dina Al Hinai (14 years), Fatima Al Bahrani (14 years), Dania Al Bahrani (14 years) and Maryam Al Hassani (14 years) from the Sultan’s School.

In addition, the following 12 students got honorary awards due to their efforts and the quality of their stories: Manal Rehman (13 years), Rah-

ma Al Yahiaei (13 years), Amena Al Zadjali (12 years), Saba Al Zadjali (12 years), Talal Al Ajmi (12 years), Reem Al Sabti (13 years), Khawla Al Khamisi (13 years), all from the Sultan’s School.

Shamma Al Alawi (13 years) from Hafsa bint Sereen School, Al Buraimi, Salma Al Azani (13 years) from Hafsa bint Sereen School, Al Buraimi, Neto Matchelat (13 years) from the Indian School Al Ghubra, Lavania Balaji (13 years) from the Indian School Al Ghubra, Mohammed Thi Shaan (13 years) from the Indian School Al Ghubra.

Maryam Issa Al Zadjali, chairperson of the Board, expressed her happiness and pride at Let’s Read programme and the competition hosted by Dar Al Atta’a Association annually, which would increase awareness of the importance of instilling love of reading and writing in the hearts of children.

She thanked the schools whose students participated in the competition. She wished that the message of the contest would reach a larger number and include all the Sultanate’s schools.

She also thanked and appre-

ciated all who contributed to the success and support of the programme.

Jane Jaffer, person in charge of the programme, also expressed her happiness over the interaction of the students during the contest and the quality of participation from various schools, making the jury’s task more difficult.

She thanked Sweets of Oman, the official sponsor of the writing contest, for its support in contributing to the enrichment and instilling the concept of writing and reading in school children.

B8

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

ROUND-UP

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al Mazyona rewards customers with high value monthly prizes Dr Nasser bin Abdullah Al Abri, director general of Education in South Sharqiyah governorate, picked the winners at the ceremony attended by dignitaries, Premier banking customers and management team members from the bank MUSCAT: Bank Muscat, the flagship financial services provider in the Sultanate, celebrated al Mazyona monthly prize draw in the wilayat of Sur in which 32 customers covering all regions, including asalah Priority banking and al Jawhar Privilege banking, won high value prizes ranging from OMR10,000 to OMR50,000.

Dr Nasser bin Abdullah Al Abri, director general of Education in South Sharqiyah governorate, picked the winners at the ceremony attended by dignitaries, Premier banking customers and management team members from the bank. asalah Priority banking customers won two exclusive monthly prizes of OMR50,000 each and al Jawhar Privilege banking customers won two prizes of OMR25,000

each. The monthly draw also witnessed 28 customers across all regions maintaining a minimum balance of OMR1,000 winning OMR10,000 each.

Abdulnasir Al Raisi, DGM – Premier Banking, said: “Bank Muscat congratulates al Mazyona monthly prize winners and wishes luck for prospective winners in the upcoming prize draws throughout the year. The bank understands customer expectations and has lined up the OMR10 million prize money for maintaining a healthy savings habit. al Mazyona ensures winning chances to all customers across the Sultanate.”

Al Raisi added: “Bank Muscat is delighted to elevate Premier banking service with a differentiated and specialised banking experience, in-

cluding high value al Mazyona prizes. The bank remains committed to further enhancing services to the Premier banking segment.” al Mazyona has earmarked high value monthly, quarterly and yearend prizes for the Premier banking segment. The exclusive prizes for asalah Priority banking customers include two monthly prizes of OMR50,000 each, two quarterly prizes of OMR250,000 each and the year-end jackpot prize of OMR500,000 for one customer.

The bank also offers special prizes to al Jawhar Privilege Banking customers, including two monthly prizes of OMR25,000 each and two quarterly prizes of OMR50,000 each. Premier banking customers can participate in all al Mazyona weekly, monthly, quarterly and special prize draws.

Reaching out with a powerful call

for savings, the OMR10 million al Mazyona prize money is targeted at different segments, including women, children, youth and high saving customers. Adding excitement to festivals and national celebrations, the 2016 savings scheme rewards customers with special prizes during Eid and National Day, in addition to aspirational prizes of OMR1 million at the end of year.

As on date, al Mazyona savings scheme guaranteeing more for everyone to share is the biggest prize money in Oman and the region with prizes ranging from OMR1,000 a week to OMR10,000 a month, OMR100,000 every quarter and OMR500,000 at the end of year. al Mazyona continues to be the only savings scheme to recognise and reward loyalty for customers based on their association with the bank.

A special prize draw offering OMR10,000 each for winners from 14 regions will be held in celebration of Eid Al Fitr in July. An exclusive draw for Zeinah women customers coinciding with Omani Women’s Day is another highlight in which 10 customers will be rewarded with OMR10,000 each. On the occasion of the National Day, a special draw will be held offering OMR10,000 each for 10 winners.

The eligibility for al Mazyona prize draws is to maintain a minimum balance of OMR100 which entitles customers to win OMR1,000 every week. By maintaining a minimum balance of OMR1,000, customers are eligible win the OMR10,000 monthly prize, OMR100,000 quarterly prize and the grand prize of OMR500,000 at the end of the year. For every OMR100 balance,

EXCLUSIVE

PROMOTION

Toyota generates ‘biggest excitement ever’ MUSCAT: Toyota, one of the most trusted and well-known brands in Oman, announced a thrilling offer building up into ‘the biggest excitement ever’.

According to the spokesperson, “The range of popular Toyota models is now available with a band of benefits, making this the best time to visit a Toyota showroom, choosing a new Toyota and adding even more joy and excitement to life.”

An enthusiast added, “You bet that I am going to make the most of this offer. I am glad that I waited for it – it’s worth it.”

The spokesperson explained, “The offer is about Toyota vehicles now being available with a host of exciting model-specific benefits like 0% interest rate, upto two years of comprehensive insurance, service package for up to three years/30,000km service (whichever is earlier) and even assured cash back upto OMR1,100. A customer can also choose to avail the cash gift in lieu of benefits like insurance and service package.

(These benefits are model specific and may vary accordingly.)”

To top it all, every Toyota customer gets a gift voucher and a

customers get 1 chance to win – so with OMR1,000, they get 10 chances to win. The more the saving, the better the chances to win. al Mazyona continues to be the only savings scheme to recognise and reward loyalty for customers based on their association with the bank. For example, if a customer has been saving for five years, his chances of winning get multiplied by five times and similarly if he has been maintaining al Mazyona savings account for 20 years, his chances get multiplied 20 times and so on. This benefit is unique only to al Mazyona savings scheme holders and no other bank offers this loyalty reward.

The double-your-salary scheme is another attraction of 2016 al Mazyona savings scheme which entitles customers maintaining a salary account with the bank to win a free bonus salary every month. The salary prize scheme is open to all customers with a minimum monthly salary of OMR500.

For instance, a customer whose salary is OMR500 can win an additional salary prize of OMR500 whereas a customer whose salary is OMR3,000 can win back an equivalent bonus salary of OMR3,000 and so on. In all, there will be 30 winners every month who will gain a bonus salary with al Mazyona savings account.

chance to take part in an amazing raffle which has 4 units of 16YM Prius Hybrid to be won.

“The earlier one buys and enters the raffle, the more are the chances of winning,” the spokesperson added.

The campaign period ends on July 21 and the benefits are applicable to all purchases except those made by government organisations and ministries. Zero percent interest rate for up to two years is applicable only on 2016 YM Yaris hatchback, Yaris sedan, Corolla & Camry through select finance companies for short term tenure, up to 24 months, for individual purchases only. For all deals exceeding 24 months, normal in-

terest rates will be applicable for full tenure of the loan. All deals are subject to finance company/ credit approval.

Assured cash gift is applicable on 2016YM models of Yaris hatchback, all Toyota sedans, Avanza, RAV4, Prado, Innova and Hilux 4x2(2.7L) only and the amount varies between model, model variants and model year. There is also cash gift given in lieu of the service and insurance only as applicable for respective models.

In case the customer chooses service, insurance (as applicable), he/ she will not be eligible for cash gift offer. Cash gift can also be used as part of down payment. For exact details, please contact the nearest

BOUTIQUE

Toyota showroom. The comprehensive two year insurance (Oman only) on 2016 YM Sequoia is subject to customer registering the vehicle for 2 years as per statutory requirements.

Comprehensive one year insurance (Oman only) is available on 16YM Camry, Fortuner and Prado.

For RAC, Taxi and driving school purchases, insurance would be given to the extent applicable for private vehicles. Additional premium as per insurance norms would have to be paid by the buyer.

As a part of benefits, three years /30,000km service (whichever is earlier) covering three services at 10,000km service interval for petrol models based on normal

operating conditions and six services at 5,000km service interval for diesel models is available on 2016 YM FJ Cruiser, LC Wagon (LC 200) & Hilux 4x4.

Two years/ 20,000km service (whichever is earlier) covering two services at 10,000km service interval for petrol models based on normal operating conditions and four services at 5,000km service interval for diesel models is available on 2016 YM Corolla, LC P/Up (LC 70) & Hiace. Six years / 60,000km service (whichever is earlier) covering six services at 10,000km service interval based on normal operating conditions is available on 2016 YM Prius.

Customers get some guaranteed benefits on any new car irrespective of the year make. These benefits include a Lulu gift voucher worth OMR25 and a chance to participate in a raffle of 4 units of 16YM Prius Hybrid E (white pearl colour). Raffle draws will be held on June 5, 19, July 3 and July 26.

Customers will be eligible for raffle only upon taking delivery of the vehicle during this campaign period after completing necessary formalities and not against booking.

Mamas and Papas launches Eid collection MUSCAT: Set the perfect scene this Eid for your little ones with Mamas and Papas Eid collection exclusive to the Middle East. The elegant range, packed with the latest fashionable outfits to make your kids stand out, will be available exclusively at Mamas and Papas, City Centre Muscat, Seeb from the end of May, says a press release.

Get her wardrobe party ready this season with intricate lacework, sequins, pleats and ruffles in soft hues including white, pink, beige, mauve and purple.

Casual daytime outfits including little tutu skirts and embroidered cotton tops will make her look adorable and feel comfortable. Finish off the look with matching cotton head bands with floral accents- every little girl’s must-have this summer!

Dress your little boys up to the nines in stylish suits inclusive of shirts, pants, ties and waist jackets in summery palette of soft pinks, blues, beige, whites and polka which will have them looking extra suave this season.

H E A LT H Y E AT I N G

No hormones, preservatives and added colours in A’Saffa chicken

South Indian actress set to open Aaina’s new boutique on June 1 MUSCAT: Aaina will unveil to the public its second boutique in Ruwi at 8pm on Wednesday, June 1.

The Indian wear store is all set to welcome South Indian actress and playback singer Mamta Mohandas to officially inaugurate the outlet, says a press release.

Aaina was started four years ago by the owner couple Juliana and Nujoom in the CBD area. Aaina mirrors the essence of the vibrant Indian culture and the elegance and intricacy of the traditional Indian wear.

There is great excitement anticipated with this expansion as there is a more concentrated Indian element added to the existing line of apparel and accessories.

The owner-designer Juliana is especially thrilled at the new shift of focus from selling only Indian

ready-mades, casual wear, sarees and wedding apparel, bridal and party wear to a wider selection of accessories, laces from different parts of India, hand embroidered materials, an extensive line of fabrics, customised tailoring and mix, match and make options.

With a boom in the sales of online catalogues of Indian and Pakistani wear by home-based entrepreneurs, Juliana feels that there is an urgent need to break the monotony and duplicity.

Thus, Aaina offers the perfect solution of customised tailoring.

The customer can handpick each element of her apparel right from the fabric to the laces and embroidery, measured and altered by the readily available in store tailor and , have it designed to perfection by a designer. Flying in designs from the different fashion cities of India, Aaina promises great selection and unmatchable quality.

Having catered to the fashion aspirations of the women alone, the new branch is also all geared to include menswear and custom stitching for men as well.

MUSCAT: A’Saffa Foods, the Sultanate’s largest fully integrated poultry and processed food producers, based on the strong foundation and business philosophy of ‘core values of healthy food, health and happiness’, through its ‘healthy living and healthy eating initiatives’, have been making inroads towards this cause of ‘Healthy Oman’.

The frozen and fresh chickens of A’Saffa, are high in protein, healthy and valuable natural vitamins and are a manifestation of the business philosophy and principles, says a press release.

“For older people the proteins in chicken can help against bone loss while it is also a rich source of niacin, a B-vitamin that helps to naturally protect the body against cancer. Together with Vitamin B6 these play a vital role in helping the efficient metabolic activity of the body and help cardiovascular health,” said Sidhartha Lenka, head of Sales and Marketing A’Saffa Foods.

Independent nutritionists and scientists have established that chicken is a rich source of nutrients and vitamins that are vital for strengthening the immune system of the body. A four ounce serving of chicken supplies 72 per cent of the daily requirement for

niacin and 32 per cent of that for Vitamin B6. Meanwhile chicken also contains the trace mineral selenium in good quantities which is an essential component required by many major metabolic pathway systems including thyroid hormone pathways, antioxidant defence systems and the immune function of the body.

Lenka added: “International research shows that chicken is very healthy for individuals and what makes A’Saffa chicken even better is that their chickens are fed naturally using natural yellow corn and soya, the chicken tastes wonderful and is enjoyed by increasing numbers of customers in Oman and beyond. Customers who purchase A’Saffa chicken products – frozen or fresh – can be assured that in our production processes, no hormones, no steroids, no preservatives or colours or flavours are added and never inject the birds with water to arti-

ficially increase their weight.”

Lenka further stated, “No preservatives, no chemicals and no artificial favouring are used to enhance the flavour of the chicken. Also we do not use plumping techniques which means that we do not inject water or any other liquid to increase the weight of the chickens. Lastly no steroids and no growth hormones are added to the chickens.”

All of A’Saffa Foods chicken is produced at a state-of-the- art farm facility that is based in Thumrait in the south of Oman with birds produced in conditions that match any world-class chicken farm anywhere in the world. It also ensures the chickens reach the consumers fresh, safe and healthy maintaining all hygienic standards.

Every bird is slaughtered by hand according to real halal techniques that help to ensure that the meat is healthy and free from toxins or any bacterial growth.

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Warner’s Orange Army ruin Virat Kohli’s fairytale season

In a battle between IPL’s best batting and bowling line-ups, the Orange Army came up trumps despite initial blitzkrieg from Chris Gayle and Kohli, defending their total of 208 for seven by restricting the home team to 200 for seven

Bengaluru: Sunrisers Hyderabad bowlers put up an incredible performance to ruin Virat Kohli’s fairytale season beating Royal Challengers Bangalore by 8 runs in a high-octane summit clash walking away with their maiden Indian

Premier League trophy, here on Sunday. In a battle between IPL’s best batting and bowling line-ups, the Orange Army came up trumps despite initial blitzkrieg from Chris Gayle and Kohli, defending their total of 208 for seven by restricting

the home team to 200 for seven.

It was David Warner’s batting and astute captaincy complemented by some inspirational death overs bowling by Mustafizur Rahaman (1/37 in 4 overs) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (0/25 in 4 overs) that clinched the issue.

Warner, who hit 69, finished second in run-getters’ list with 848 runs. The turning point certainly would be the 24 runs that Ben Cutting (39 no and 2/35) got in the final over off Shane Watson’s bowling during Sunrisers innings and then came back to dismiss a rampaging Gayle.

With 18 needed off last over, Bhuvneshwar, who bowled 13 dot balls gave only 9 runs. As the last ball was delivered, skipper Warner’s joy knew no bounds with the entire team and dug-out joining him in wild celebrations.

TEST SERIES

Mathews leads from front as Sri Lanka frustrate England DURHAM: England moved towards victory in the second Test against Sri Lanka whose batsmen showed sufficient resolve on Sunday to push the game into a fourth day if not affect a result that still seems inevitable.

Having been dismissed in the morning for 101 in their first innings to trail by 397 runs, Sri Lanka performed much better second time round to reach 309 for five by the close, still 88 runs adrift at Durham. Captain Angelo Mathews led from the front with a combative 80, sharing a partnership of 82 with Kaushal Silva, who made 60.

Dinesh Chandimal remained unbeaten on 54 at the close.

For Sri Lanka to even reach this far represents an improvement on the first test, which they lost inside three days by an innings and 88 runs, but the tourists did not do enough to banish the impression that this two-test series is a mismatch. England’s formidable attack took just 17 minutes to take the remaining first-innings wickets in the morning.

The total represented another dismal Sri Lankan performance to set alongside their first-test efforts of 91 and 119 - the first time since 1958 that a test team had been bowled out for under 120 in three consecutive innings.

A different approach was required in the second innings and for once the batsmen did not disappoint. A breezy 26 from Dimuth

SCOREBOARD

England 1st innings: 498 for 9 declared Sri Lanka 1st innings: D. Karunaratne b Anderson 9 K. Silva c Bairstow b Broad 13 K. Mendis c Anderson b Woakes 35 D. Chandimal c Cook b Anderson 4 A. Mathews c Bairstow b Woakes 3 L. Thirimanne c Compton b Anderson 19 M. Siriwardana c Bairstow b Woakes 0 R. Herath c Anderson b Broad 12 S. Eranga c Root b Broad 2 S. Lakmal c Bairstow b Broad 0 N. Pradeep not out 2 Extras (lb-1, nb-1) 2 Total (all out, 43.3 overs) 101 Fall of wickets: 1-10, 2-44, 3-53, 4-58, 5-67, 6-67, 7-88, 8-90, 9-93.

Bowling: J. Anderson 12.3-2-36-3; S. Broad 13-2-40-4 (nb-1); C. Woakes 7-4-9-3; S.

Karunaratne set the tone as, together with Silva, the openers put on 38 before Chris Woakes pushed a ball across the left-hander who edged a catch to Joe Root. Kusal Mendis picked up the pace with three boundaries in five balls from Jimmy Anderson to also reach 26 but paid a heavy price when the Lancashire paceman responded with a full-length ball that was skied to keeper Jonny Bairstow.

Lahiru Thirimanne, who began the day at the crease in the first innings, returned to be dismissed for a second time, this time for 13 after falling to a beautiful ball from Moeen Ali that drew him into the shot

Finn 7-3-15-0; M. Ali 4-4-0-0.

Sri Lanka 2nd innings D. Karunaratne c Root b Woakes 26 K. Silva c Bairstow b Finn 60 K. Mendis c Bairstow b Anderson 26 L. Thirimanne b Ali 13 A. Mathews c Bairstow b Anderson 80 D. Chandimal not out 54 M. Siriwardana not out 35 Extras (lb-9, nb-5, w-1) 15 Total (5 wkts, 84 overs) 309 Fall of wickets: 1-38, 2-79, 3-100, 4-182, 5-222.

To bat: R. Herath, S. Eranga, N. Pradeep, S. Lakmal Bowling: J. Anderson 16-3-40-2; S. Broad 17-5-47-0 (nb-2); C. Woakes 15-7-51-1 (w1); S. Finn 16-0-55-1 (nb-1); M. Ali 17-2-94-1 (nb-2); J. Vince 1-1-0-0; J. Root 2-0-13-0.

before clipping his stumps. That wicket brought Silva and Mathews together and the pair pushed the tourists’ innings towards respectability before Steven Finn finally had Silva caught behind.

Sri Lanka have constantly struggled against the moving ball outside off stump and Bairstow also accounted for Mathews with his seventh catch of the match from a quality Anderson outswinger.

Chandimal kept the scoreboard ticking over to record his 11th half-century, seeing off the new ball with Siriwadana (35) to leave England with work to do on Monday. - Reuters

INSIDE LIFESTYLE

Gayle (76 off 38 balls) and skipper Kohli (54 off 35 balls) had a scintillating opening stand of 114 in 10.3 overs as it looked like a cakewalk for the home team.

But in the end, Kohli was the tragic hero once again after the WorldT20 in a tournament that will be remembered for his exploits. He finished the tournament with an astounding 973 runs at an average of 81.08 and and equally impressive strike-rate of 152.03.

He hit an unbelievable four hundreds and seven half-centuries, not to forget 83 boundaries and a staggering 38 sixes.

Once the duo were back in quick succession, it depended AB de Villiers (5), who had one of his rare failures as Sunrisers came back into the match. KL Rahul was done in by a slow off-cutter from Cutting and Shane Watson found it

hard to get the big shots going as Mustafizur accounted for him.

Stuart Binny hit Mustafizur down the ground for a six as the equation came down to 37 from 3 overs. But Bhuvneshwar bowled a brilliant 18th over keeping everything in the blockhole as only 7 came off the over.

RCB 30 were needed off last two overs as Binny (9) was run-out off the first delivery of the 19th over bowled by Mustafizur. Sachin Baby hit six off the last ball as RCB’s requirement of final over was 18 runs but Bhuvneshwar kept his cool to win the match for Sunrisers.

Brief scores: Sunrisers Hyderabad 208 for 7 in 20 overs (David Warner 69, Ben Cutting 39 not out, Yuvraj Singh 38; Chris Jordan 3/45) beat Royal Challengers Bangalore 200 for 7 in 20 overs (Chris Gayle 76, Virat Kohli 54; Ben Cutting 2/35). - PTI

FRENCH OPEN

Sania-Hingis crash out as BopannaMerges and Paes-Marcin move ahead PARIS: Indian tennis ace Sania Mirza made a shock exit from the women’s doubles competition while compatriots Leander Paes and Rohan Bopanna entered the men’s doubles quarterfinals along with their respective partners in the French Open here on Sunday.

Sania and Martina Hingis of Switzerland, seeded number one in the women’s doubles, lost to unseeded Czech Republic duo of Barbora Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova 3-6, 2-6 in a third round match.

Earlier in the day, the sixth seeded Indo-Romanian pair of Bopanna and Florin Mergea defeated Marcus Daniell and Brian Baker 6-2, 6-7 (4), 6-1, while 16th seeds Paes and Marcin Matkowski stunned fourth seeded combination of Bruno Soares and Jamie Murray 7-6 (5), 7-6 (4).

But, Bopanna and his partner Alla Kudryavtseva of Russia crashed out of the mixed doubles competition with a 6-2, 3-6, 8-10 loss at the hands of top seeded combine of Hao-Ching Chan of Chinese Taipei and Jamie Murray of Great Britain in a second round match.

In the women’s doubles, Sania and Hingis, who were coming into the Grand Slam tournament after their Australian Open triumph earlier this year, were rusty against their unseeded Czech rivals and could not hold their serve five times.

Sania and Hingis gave away a break point to their opponents to lose the first set 3-6. The Indo-Swiss pair fought back by breaking their opponents’ serve in the fifth game to make it 1-4 but again failed to hold onto their own in the next game to trail 1-5.

The Czech combo served for the match but Sania and Hingis were yet to throw in the rowel and broke their opponents’ serve to make it 2-5. But their was not be any further fightback from the Indo-Swiss duo as they yet again failed to hold onto their serve and lost the second set 2-6 to end the match in disappointment. - PTI

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MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

SPORTS

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Murray and Wawrinka in quarters, Raonic out The big-serving Raonic could make little impression against RamosVilanos who finished the contest with an angled smash on his

first set, denying the Briton the slightest whiff of a break.

The 15th seed had three set points in the tiebreak, the first of which, when serving at 6-5, he will be rueing.

Three-times Roland Garros semifinalist Murray converted his second set point when Isner hit a forehand wide. After a rain delay, the second set proved another tight tussle before Isner cracked under pressure at 4-5 — Murray breaking for the first time to move two sets clear with the help of a delightful angled drop shot.

third match point

PARIS: Andy Murray moved ominously into the French Open quarterfinals for the sixth time in his career with a clinical 7-6(9), 6-4, 6-3 defeat of American John Isner on Sunday. The second seed began the tournament scraping through back-to-back five-setters but has been a model of efficiency since and has his eyes fixed firmly on a first title at Roland Garros.

Isner took a 0-5 career record against Murray on to a murky Court Suzanne Lenglen but he stuck manfully to his task in the

Beaming Wawrinka The weather was dull and wet but that did not stop a beaming Stan Wawrinka from having plenty of fun on Sunday as he enjoyed a mid-match rally with a ballboy before twirling 360 degrees on court to take a selfie-video with 10,000 French Open spectators.

In between all the sideshows, the reigning champion lit up a gloomy Roland Garros with his lurid day-glo yellow shirt as he reached the quarterfinals with a dazzling 7-6(5), 6-7(7), 6-3 6-2 win over Serbia’s Viktor Troicki.

In an entertaining match featuring between-the-leg shots, 105

sweetly-struck winners and an array of blinding backhands from Wawrinka, the Swiss third seed chalked up his fifth successive win over Troicki when the Serbian netted a backhand.

The win earned Wawrinka an eighth successive victory on clay, following his triumph in the Geneva tournament last weekend, but more importantly it allowed him to set up a quarterfinal meeting with unheralded Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas.

Raonic ousted Subdued eighth seed Milos Raonic’s French Open came to an abrupt halt when he was swept aside 6-2, 6-4, 6-4 by Spanish claycourter Albert Ramos-Vinolas.

The big-serving Canadian could make little impression against the dogged, 28-year-old left-hander who finished the contest with an angled smash on his third match point.

“I had a simple task out there to try to find a way to win and I wasn’t able to find that today,” the 25-year-old Raonic, who dropped serve five times, told a news conference. “I gave myself opportunities on his serve, but the day is a lot easier for the other guy when I don’t serve well.”

Raonic will now turn his attention to the grasscourt season where he will spend three weeks working with seven-times grand slam champion John McEnroe.

Rogers through When this year’s French Open draw was made just over a week ago, American Shelby Rogers was right near the back of the queue, just avoiding the qualifiers by scraping in on the direct entry list.

On Sunday the 108th ranked American, playing the tournament of her life, once again ended up in floods of tears after taking her place in the last eight by dispatching 25th seeded Romanian Irina Begu 6-3, 6-4.

Sunday’s win made her only the ninth woman ranked outside the top 100 to reach the quarterfinals at Roland Garros since 1983.

Things are likely to get tougher still when she faces her next opponent, fourth seed Garbine Muguruza, who beat Svetlana Kuznetsova 6-3, 6-4 to reach the last eight.

The fourth seed moved into the quarterfinals for the third year in a row with a solid display as she looks to become the first Spanish woman to lift the Suzanne Lenglen Cup since Arantxa Sanchez Vicario in 1998. — Reuters

GREAT GOING: Andy Murray in action against John Isner. – Reuters

FORMULA ONE

Hamilton wins Monaco showcase MONACO: Lewis Hamilton celebrated his first win of the Formula One season at the Monaco Grand Prix on Sunday after Mercedes told team mate Nico Rosberg to move aside and Red Bull wrecked Daniel Ricciardo’s chances.

While fortune finally favoured the triple world champion after a run of bad luck, championship leader Rosberg finished seventh -- 93.2 seconds behind -- and saw his lead cut to 24 points after six of 21 races.

Australian Daniel Ricciardo was runner-up, a botched second pitstop destroying his chances after he started on pole position for the first time, with Mexican Sergio Perez third for Force India.

“I prayed for a day like this so I feel truly blessed,” said Hamilton, who had cut a disconsolate figure after a fuel pressure problem in qualifying left him third on the starting grid.

He made the right call on the tyres, however, with a late change to slicks and got more mileage out of the ultrasofts than expected. He also made his car as wide as possible with Ricciardo crawling all over the back of him.

Hamilton was congratulated by Canadian pop singer Justin Bieber as he stepped out of the car in the pit lane before the podium celebration.

His jubilation contrasted to Ricciardo’s sense of shock, the Australian feeling robbed of a

WIN AT LAST: Mercedes F1 driver Lewis Hamilton celebrates on the podium after winning. – Reuters

likely victory by his own team whom he said had called him in for a pitstop and then did not have the tyres ready.

“Two weeks in a row I’ve been screwed,” said the driver, who had also led in Spain two weeks ago until a strategy error handed the win to 18-year-old Dutch team mate Max Verstappen. “It sucks.

I was called into the box. They should have been ready.”

“Nothing you can say can make

it any better,” Ricciardo had told the team over the radio after the chequered flag. “Just save it.”

Ricciardo had built up a tidy lead at the start before Mercedes told Rosberg, then in second place, to let Hamilton through because the German was suffering from high brake temperatures.

The race had started with seven laps behind the safety car in wet conditions, dried out and then ended with more rain threaten-

ing and cloudy skies. Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel finished fourth, while Finnish team mate Kimi Raikkonen retired with his front wing wedged under the car after clouting the barriers on the 12th of the 78 laps.

McLaren’s Fernando Alonso was fifth, on the 50th anniversary of his team’s race debut in Monaco in 1966, with Force India’s Nico Hulkenberg snatching sixth from Rosberg at the very end. - Reuters

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

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SPORTS Oman take positives from Jersey performance to Division 4 in LA Captain Ajay Lalcheta said Oman team

We have a lot of positive signs to take forward. Our main players are getting runs and around four-five players have performed well, and this is very important for us going into Division 4

are not entirely disappointed, because the main objective was to gain promotion to Division 4, adding ‘we have a lot of positive signs to take forward with’

MUSCAT: Oman are disappointed in losing to hosts Jersey in the final of the ICC World Cricket League (WCL) Division 5 on Saturday but having already qualified for the Division 4, the Sultanate squad are hoping to take a lot of positives from their outing in the Channel Island to their next stop in Los Angeles.

Oman captain Ajay Lalcheta, speaking to ICC website right after Saturday’s final match, said: “Our batting did not come right, especially the top order. We expected them to do better especially on wickets like these where the ball was seaming the whole day. And that is the main reason we lost.”

“Even our bowling, especially our spinners didn’t perform up to BADMINTON

Ajay Lalcheta

POSITIVE SHOW: Oman team members pose for a group photo after their final match against Jersey.

mark, we got the top order early in the final, but couldn’t wrap it up after,” he said.

Oman came into the tournament as top seeds, having performed beyond expectation at the 2016 ICC World T20 in India, it remained unbeaten through the Division 5 tournament, until the final when Jersey pulled off a convincing 44run victory.

The Oman captain said his team are not entirely disappointed, because the main objective was to gain promotion to Division 4, which the team achieved.

“We have a lot of positive signs to take forward with us. Our main players are getting runs and around four-five players have performed well in the tournament, and this is very important for us going into Division 4,” he said.

Oman’s players were consistent through the tournament, and lead the run-scorer and wicket-taker list. Opening batsman Zeeshan Maqsood topped batting chart with 321 runs, including the highest score of 130, while Rajeshkumar Ranpura shared top wickettaking honours with Ben Kynman

of Jersey. Both bowlers finished with 14 wickets apiece.

Host Jersey lost only one match in the tournament, when it suffered a 58-run defeat against Oman.

According to captain Peter Gough that made victory in the final even sweeter. “It was a massive psychological battle, and the whole team came together,” he said.

“As we reduced the run-rate, the bowlers just came in and out to keep the batsmen on their toes. Our fielders were stopping balls that could go for twos and threes, and not giving any runs at all, and that was frus-

CRICKET

Saina eyes first title of season in Indonesia

Shaharyar hints at stepping down as PCB chief in August

JAKARTA: Saina Nehwal will continue her quest for a maiden title this season to boost her confidence ahead of the Rio Olympics when she begins her campaign at the US$900,000 Indonesia Open Super Series Premier starting with the qualifiers here tomorrow.

After missing a few tournaments due to a nagging ankle injury, Saina recovered well to notch up a consistent run of form, reaching the semifinals in a slew of events, including the India Open, Malaysia Open and Asian Championship.

En route to Indian women’s team’s bronze medal winning feat at the Uber Cup, Saina won all the matches in the league stage but lost to Thailand’s Ratchanok Intanon and China’s Li Xuerui in the knockouts.

Saina, who had won the Indonesia Open title in 2009, 2010 and 2012, opens her campaign against Chinese Taipei’s Pai Yu Po on Tuesday. - PTI

KARACHI: The chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has indicated he might step down on August 20 after completing two years in office.

“Mind you I have taken no final decision as yet on whether I will step down or continue but when I was initially appointed as chairman, the patron in chief gave me a two-year tenure which ends on August 20th,” PCB chief Shaharyar Khan said on Sunday.

Shaharyar Khan minced no words in expressing his disappointment at the prevailing cricket culture in Pakistan.

“It is disappointing and drags you down that every time the team does not do well the knives are out for the board officials. If anything after the World T20, Sri Lanka who were the defending champions, Australia and England should all have been more disappointed than us at not performing well in the event. But in Pakistan the board is held responsible for everything,” he said.

Khan said people needed to understand the board was there to facilitate the players, improve the cricket structure and earn revenues for cricket development and players. “We can only make the best appointments of technocrats the rest is up to them we can only facilitate them and we have been doing that regularly. If the team is not performing how can you hold board officials responsible for something the players and coaches are supposed to deliver,” he said.

Khan made it clear he never craved for the job of PCB chairman.

“I lead a quiet retired life and I enjoy teaching assignments. I didn’t need this job as I had already headed the board and I don’t take any salary. But two years back when cricket matters had gone to the Supreme Court the prime minister and Najam Sethi told me to come in and I initially agreed only for a year. But they told me I should be there for atleast two years as one year was not enough to get things done,” he said.

The PCB chief said he had faced lots of pressure in his career as a diplomat.

“I can take the pressure but obviously at my age it becomes exhausting for me. But it is my earnest desire to see things improve in Pakistan cricket to see our team doing well and most of all to see us resume bilateral cricket ties with India. These are challenges for me.”

Khan confirmed he had at one stage decided to step down but was persuaded to continue till August 20th.

“I will be going to England for my annual vacation and will come back fresh and than take a decision whether I should continue or not when my term expires. There is no doubt we have fallen behind other cricket nations and we need to make up time. We are confident that with a new management set up in the team, new selectors and administrative changes in the board’s cricket department things will improve soon.’ - PTI

Oman captain

trating for the Oman batsmen.”

“Oman, we know, is a good team and we like to pitch ourselves against those teams. We have come up short against them a few times now, so to come back in a determined way and beat them in the final was massive for us. We look forward to meeting them in division four.”

Oman and Jersey will now have a chance to lock horns once again in November, when they travel to Los Angeles to play the Division

4 tournament. Oman and Jersey have moved a step up the WCL ladder and have the opportunity to advance through the divisions to a place in the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2018, and earn potential qualification for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019.

The WCL is also the pathway into the ICC’s four-day Intercontinental Cup competition and, thereafter, Test cricket, further widening the prospects for the Associate teams in these competitions.

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MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

SPORTS Zidane assured place in Real hearts if not a long future Zidane must know

Simeone may not have the stomach to reinvent Atletico again

Saturday’s shootout victory over Atletico does not guarantee him a long future at the club

MILAN: In leading Real Madrid to their 11th European Cup less than five months after inheriting an unhappy team from Rafael Benitez, Zinedine Zidane has cemented his heroic status at the Bernabeu and appears to have assured his immediate future.

Although neither Zidane nor Real’s notoriously trigger happy president Florentino Perez have confirmed whether the French coach would be remain charge, there could be no political capital gained from axing the coach now.

The Frenchman has enjoyed special status since his wondrous volley against Bayer Leverkusen won the 2002 Champions League, although he must know Saturday’s shootout victory over Atletico Madrid does not guarantee him a long future at the club.

He only needs to look at the fate of the last two coaches to lead Real to European glory, Vicente del Bosque and Carlo Ancelotti, both sacked 12 months later, as a reminder of that.

The only Real coach to create any sort of dynasty was Miguel

MILAN: Diego Simeone may not have the stomach to reinvent Atletico Madrid again after they suffered another morale-shattering loss to Real Madrid in Saturday’s Champions League final.

The Atletico coach left doubts in the air with vague answers about his future following their second Champions League final defeat in three seasons to the same opponents.

It would be perfectly understandable if the combative Argentine decides he has taken Atletico as far as he can.

Having joined a club teetering close to the relegation zone in 2011, he lifted them out of danger and won the Europa League title, the Copa del Rey and La Liga within three years.

Each triumph saw key players

Munoz, like Zidane a European Cup winner as a Real midfielder, who spent 14 years in charge, winning Europe’s top prize in 1960 and 1966 and nine La Liga titles.

Having conquered Europe with Real as a player, coach and assistant, Zidane’s next task is to wrest the La Liga title back from Barcelona, who finished a solitary point above his side. Zidane picked up more points than Barca and Atletico since succeeding Benitez on January 4, including victories

depart, invariably to richer clubs, yet Simeone always contrived to rebuild his side.

“To be with Atletico is to be perseverant, competitive, never give up, fight against the difficulties and to know that there are opponents who are better than us,” he said at one stage. “Knowing they are better makes us more competitive to battle against them.”

The question is whether he will want to go through the whole process again.

Whatever he decides, it is almost certain that Simeone will be back somewhere, more likely than not at a club looking to upstage more glamorous rivals.

Over the course of his career, he has made a habit of picking himself up, dusting himself down and starting all over again.

in the last 12 games, although the football his team played lacked the sparkle of Luis Enrique’s championship-winning side.

The most graceful of players, Zidane has proved to be a great pragmatist as a coach, stressing on the eve of the final that his team’s plan was to “run, run and run”.

Happy atmosphere With Cristiano Ronaldo clearly not match fit, Real’s win owed more to the gutsy determination

Simeone suffered a huge setback relatively early in his career when he was in the Argentina team which infamously lost 5-0 at home to Colombia in a World Cup qualifier. Nevertheless, he went on to win 106 caps for his country and played in three World Cups, although those themselves all ended in disappointment. There was, though, also plenty of success amid the frustration including two Copa America titles with Argentina.

Revered wherever he has gone for his undying commitment, he helped Atletico Madrid to win a league and cup double in 1996 and repeated the trick with Lazio four years later.

His coaching career has been a story of similar ups and downs.

It began in spectacular style as he led Estudiantes to their

of defensive midfielder Casemiro and man of the match Sergio Ramos than the flair players Perez loves to recruit.

Zidane never tires of stressing the value of hard work and his team selections reflect that, sidelining the likes of James Rodriguez and Isco, players overflowing with talent but reluctant to dig in and help the team out defensively.

Another key to Zinedine Zidane’s early success with Real Madrid has been to create a happy

2 0 1 6 O LY M P I C S

Indian discus thrower Seema qualifies for Rio NEW DELHI: Asian Games discus throw gold medal winner Seema Punia on Sunday qualified for the Rio Olympics with a 62.62m effort at the Pat Young’s Throwers Classic 2016 at Salinas (California) in the United States.

The 32-year-old Seema crossed the Rio Games qualification standard of 61.00m at the Hartnell College Throwers Complex with her season’s best effort of 62.62m.

She won the gold in the event and in the process pipped 2008 Olympic discus throw champion Stephanie Brown-Trafton of United States of America for the gold.

This will be Seema’s third Olympic Games having taken part in 2004 and 2012 where she failed to get past the qualification round on both the occasions. She is the 19th Indian track and field athlete to have qualified for Rio Olympics. - PTI

first Argentine championship in 23 years. At one point, he was seen as favourite to replace Alfio Basile as Argentina coach but was swept aside when it became clear that Diego Maradona wanted the job.

His career then took a dive as he quit River amid a dire campaign which left him so angry that he broke his hand in one game after smashing it against the substitutes’ bench in a fit of rage. His philosophy has always stayed the same and there was no change on Saturday.

“We just have to keep on working, and persisting,” he said.

“Nobody remembers the team that comes second. It’s a failure when you lose two finals and that is something you have to accept and heal your wounds at home.” - Reuters

atmosphere among a squad that never bonded with predecessor Rafael Benitez.

Zidane said: “What I’ve brought to Real Madrid is my positive attitude. I believe in hard work, we already have a lot of quality in the team. But work is more important than quality.” Hard work may have delivered Zidane Europe’s biggest prize in his infancy as a coach, but he will need to oversee a higher standard of football if he is to remain in charge long term. - Reuters

CRICKET

Al Hail CT manager Moula Baksh Al Balushi.

Al Hail CT to host Ramadan cricket tourney MUSCAT: Al Hail Cricket Club will organise the Ramadan floodlight tennis ball cricket tournament during the holy of month. According to Al Hail Cricket Team manager Moula Baksh Al Balushi, the tournament is open for all teams with the exception of Oman Cricket’s Premier and A Division squads.

The participating team are however allowed to include two players from Premier and A Divisions combined in their playing Xl. Pocari Sweat, Cricket Cottage and Foodies Restaurant Muscat are the main sponsors of the tournament.

Besides fabulous prizes for the winners and runners-up teams, the organisers will also be presenting exciting prizes, likes LED TVs and other electronic gifts, in various categories. To make it more exciting, the organisers have also decided to give surprise gifts on weekly bases to the spectators.

The organisers have also planned to create an exclusive children’s play area and to have food stalls at the venue for the entire duration of the tournament.

The registration forms are available at Al Hail Cricket Ground and Cricket Cottage in Darsait.

For further details contact at the organisers (Ph: 95998056, 99623536) or email at alhailcricketteam@yahoo.com

I S C TA B L E T E N N I S

MALABAR FC CLINCH CHAMPIONS TROPHY

Malabar FC defeated Black & White Kerala 1-0 in the final of the Champions Trophy 7-a-side football tournament organised by by Malabar FC in Seeb recently. In a closely-contested final, Linson of Malabar FC scored the winning goal. He was later adjudged the best player of the tournament. Al Hosny FC won the third place. Azad of Black & White Kerala won the best goalkeeper award. The club handed over a special memento to Malabar FC goalkeeper Ashique for his outstanding performances in three consecutive tournaments in Muscat.

The event was sponsored by Chickzone and New India Assurance were trophy sponsors.

Club president Ajnas, secretary Nasser , Managing Partner of Chickzone Noushad Kuttiyadi distributed the prizes. — Supplied photo

Sanskar and Allan enter under-13 final MUSCAT: Sanskar Dubey will take on Allan Thiyagaseelan in the final of the boys under-13 singles at the annual table tennis tournament organised by the Indian Social Club (ISC) and sponsored by Muscat Insurance Services and Oman United Insurance Company.

Sanskar booked his place in the summit clash after registering a convincing 11-4, 11-3, 11-3 victory over R. Anirudh in the semifinal.

In the second semifinal, Allan Thiyagaseelan dropped the third game but was always in control of the match before overcoming Vedant Bahirat 11-4, 11-4, 7-11, 11-6.

Fancied Kenneth Vaz qualified for the semifinals of the boys under-17 singles after securing a narrow 12-10, 11-9, 11-9 win over the hard-working Yash Tanna.

Shounak Kelkar also qualified for the last four after posting an 11-8, 11-5, 13-11 victory over Prakhar Pateria.

MV Saiprem continued his impressive run and rallied to defeat fancied P. Sai Saran 7-11, 11-6, 119, 11-7 to enter the semifinals of the boys under-17 event.

Yash Tanna avenged his defeat to Shounak Kelkar in the boys under-17 singles when he overcame the talented left-hander in a fivegame thriller in the men’s singles.

In second round action, Yash rallied from a game down and held his nerves to scrape through to a narrow 9-11, 16-14, 9-11, 1-8, 12-10 win to enter the last eight.

In another second round match, veteran R. Subramanian struggled before getting his rhythm to overcome teenager Pranav Vinod 21-19, 11-9, 11-3.

Also moving into the last eight of the men’s singles competition was Karan Negi who pipped Simon Joseph 11-9, 11-8, 11-9 and P. Sai Saran who coasted to a fine 11-6, 11-2, 11-6 victory over Mehul Vijay Sheth.

C

LIFESTYLE

SECTION

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

Gear WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM

STORY FAISAL MOHAMMED NAIM

Mention the word ‘sound’ and the first name to pop into the head is Bose; the brand that has ruled our senses for long with the mighty slogan ‘better sound through research’. However, the reality is a tad different.

A

really outstanding aspect about American brands, among many others, is their marketing. The way they advertise is really outstanding. They come, they see, and they dominate. And it is not that they don’t deliver the goods; in most cases they do. But even if some don’t, their unique, better than the best publicity campaigns make sure they still remain on top and very much in demand.

I had been a great fan of Bose ever since I heard of the brand for the first time. From my earphones, to headphones, to the desktop speakers, each one wore the Bose moniker.

Like any and many others, I too was so fascinated by the audio brand and its magic technology, producing sound like no other. For me premium had always meant Bose; but only this far. What I went through in the recent past has seriously shaken my faith in the brand.

For the last few weeks I had been planning on setting up a home theatre at my place. And as obvious nothing else came to my mind other than Bose. Next thing,

I ended up at the Bose showroom, and they gave me a nice demo with their best sounding home theatre system – the Acoustimass 10 Series V. I was floored with the awesome sound: amazing bass, and superb surround like no other. I was getting goosebumps at the very thought of the system rocking my place and the pleasure I would seek out of the envy of my friends.

But to my sheer disgust, the unavailability of a matching A/V receiver halted my plans to make the purchase right away. Only now I realise it was a blessing in disguise.

I happened to bump in this friend, who is also a music junkie like me. I shared my home theatre plans with him, and without even asking, he bounced at me; “Do not buy Bose!” Startled as I was at his impudence, I sang all my knowledge about Bose, and it’s sound quality comparable to none.

Keeping his cool with the same intensity as I had lost mine, he asked passively, “but to which system you actually did compare it?” And I went blank. True, I hadn’t compared it to any; I just be-

lieved it to be that way. And though I still strongly believed in Bose being the best, I set out to do some market research, with the intention of proving my buddy all wrong.

I started with Bose itself. Visiting the Bose outlet, I enquired about the technical specs of the aforementioned system I was interested in, but instead of anything specific all I got were assumptions. To my utter dismay, I discovered Bose does not publish technial data like frequency ranges, accuracy, distortion levels, or power output for its systems anywhere – instruction manuals, brochures, or website.

A little more research revealed the tech specs are probably kept clandestine on purpose.

Check this: the frequency range of a high quality home theatre system should be 20Hz (lower frequency denotes bass) to 20,000Hz with less than + or - 3dB fluctuation in volume level and be able to output 105dB during loud peaks. DVDs and CDs are produced in mixing environments that match these specifications.

CONTINUE TO C7 >

C6

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

FIND-IT-ALL CINEMA SCHEDULE

PRAYER TIMINGS

@ BURAIMI

@SHATTI

Screen 3 X-Men: Apocalypse (2D) (Sci Fic) –PG12 Cast : Sophie Turner, Olivia Munn 3.45, 6.45 PM Baaghi (2D) (Action) –PG Cast : Tiger Shroff, Shraddha Kapoor 9.45 PM

CITY CINEMA Contact (10 am to 6PM) 24567664 | 68 www.citycinemaoman.net facebook.com/citycinemaoman SHATTI Warcraft - (3D) (Action | Fantasy) (PG12) Cast: Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster 3:45, 6:30, 9:00 & 11:30PM The Nice Guys - (2D) (Action | Crime) (15+) Cast: Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling 3:00, 7:15, 9:30 & 11:45PM Pele: A Birth Legend - (2D) (Biography | Drama | Sport) (PG) Cast: Vincent D’Onofrio, Rodrigo Santoro 3:15 & 7:15PM Money Monster - (2D) (Crime | Drama) (12+) Cast: George Clooney, Julia Roberts 5:15 & 11:55PM X-Men: Apocalypse(3D) (Action) (PG12) Cast: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender 9:15PM The Angry Birds Movie - (3D) (Animation (U) Cast: Peter Dinklage, Tituss Burgess 5:15PM MUSCAT GRAND MALL Warcraft – 3D (PG12) Action| Adventure Cast: Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster 12:30, 9:15, 11:45 PM Gold Class : 3:45, 6:30, 9:00, 11:30 PM Money Monster – 2D (12+) Crime | Drama Cast: George Clooney, Julia Roberts 4:45, 11:30 PM Pele: A Birth Legend – 2D (PG) Biography Cast: Vincent D’Onofrio, Rodrigo Santoro, Diego Boneta 6:40 PM X-Men: Apocalypse – 3D (PG12) Action | Cast: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender 2:15, 8:45 PM Jungle Book – 3D (PG) Adventure | Drama Cast: Neel Sethi, Bill Murray, Ben Kingsley 5:00 PM The Angry Birds Movie – 3D (U) Animation Cast: Peter Dinklage, Tituss Burgess 12:15, 2:45, 7:15 PM

Warcraft – 3D (PG12) Action| Adventure Cast: Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster 12:30, 9:15, 11:45 PM Gold Class : 3:45, 6:30, 9:00, 11:30 PM

Money Monster - (2D) (Crime | Drama) (12+) Cast: George Clooney, Julia Roberts, Jack O’Connell 5:15 & 11:55PM

PANORAMA MALL Warcraft - (3D) (Action| Adventure | Fantasy) (PG12) VIP LOUNGE Cast: Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster 3:45, 6:45 & 11:30PM Warcraft - (4D) (Action| Adventure | Fantasy) (PG12) MX4D Cast: Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster 3:30, 6:30, 9:00 & 11:30PM Warcraft - (3D) (Action | Fantasy) (PG12) Cast: Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster 9:00 & 11:30PM The Nice Guys - (2D) (Action | Comedy | Crime) (15+) VIP LOUNGE Cast: Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling 9:15PM The Nice Guys - (2D) (Action | Crime) (15+) Cast: Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling 3:00, 7:15, 9:30 & 11:45PM Pele: A Birth Legend - (2D) (Biography) (PG) Cast: Vincent D’Onofrio, Rodrigo Santoro 5:15PM X-Men: Apocalypse (3D) (Actiony) (PG12) Cast: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender 3:30, 9:00 & 11:45PM The Angry Birds Movie - (3D) (Animation | Action |Comedy) (U) Cast: Peter Dinklage, Tituss Burgess

FROM MUSCAT (RUWI)

Dept time

Destination

Arrival Operating time days

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (ROUTE 36)

TEMPERATURE

15:00 15:00 15:00

05:30 05:30 05:30

Maximum

16:30 18:00 19:30

Daily Daily Daily

Sur Quriyat Ruwi

06:45 08:30 10:00

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

06:30 06:30 08:00 13:00 13:00 16.00 16.00

07:00 07:00 13:30 13:00 13:00 13:00 17:00

Sohar Buraimi Buraimi Sohar Buraimi Sohar Buraimi

08:50 Daily 11:00 Daily 14:30 Daily via Ibri 15:45 Daily 17:40 Daily 18.35 Daily 20:20 Daily

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52) 17:30

Sinaw

Nizwa Yanqul

Daily

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

Nizwa Al Araqi

Sur Sur

10:20 12:30

Daily Daily

Fahud Yibal

12:00 18:45

Daily Daily

Salalah Marmul Salalah Salalah

Daily Daily

20:00 20:30 23:30 07:40

Marmul

Dubai

16:50

Daily

Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai

06:00 06:00

Nizwa Ruwi

08:40 11:00

Daily Daily

15:40 15:40

Nizwa Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

06:00 14:30

Ruwi Ruwi

10:45 19:00

Daily Daily

12:30 12:30

Fahud Ruwi

13:15 17:30

Daily Daily

07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

Ruwi Marmul Ruwi Ruwi

19:50 13:15 22:30 07:30

06:00

Marmul

16:30

Daily

Daily

08:30 11:30 15:30 18:30 17:35 20:55

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

15:00

Salalah

07:00

Daily

10:50 13:40 16:15 19:10 18:45 21:35

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

TO DUBAI (ROUTE 201) 07:30 07:30 13:00 13:00 15:30 15:30

Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

TO DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

FROM DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH/SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

07:00 07:00 07:00

16:00 16.00 16.00

Fujairah Sharjah Dubai

11.45 13.30 14.00

BURAIMI Idhu Namma Aalu PG (Tamil) (Romantic ) Cast: T.R. Silambarasan, Nayanthara 6:45 PM X-Men: Apocalypse PG12 (3D) (Action) Cast: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender 9:00 PM Warcraft PG 12 (3D) (Action| Adventure) Cast: Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster.

4:30, 6:45, 9:15 & 11:45 PM Wild for the Night 15+ (Crime| Musi) Cast: Tommy Flanagan, Michael Roark 5:15 & 11:30 PM The Nice Guys 15+ (Action | Comedy) Cast: Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling 4:45, 7:15, 9:30 & 11:45 PM

Warcraft (Action / Adventure / Fantasy) Cast: Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster 2.00, 4.30, 7.00, 9.30 & 11.55 p.m.

CP No : 1129 (PG12) The Shamer’s Daughter (Adventure) Cast: Allan Hyde, Jakob Oftebro, Roland Moller 6.00 & 11.55 p.m.

CP No : 1130 (PG12) Wild for the Night (Crime / Thriller) Cast: Tommy Flanagan, Michael Roark, Bianca A. Santos 2.00, 8.00 & 10.00 p.m.

CP No :1131 (15+) The Trust (Crime / Thriller) Cast: Nicolas Cage, Elijah Wood, Sky Ferreira 4.00 p.m.

CP No : 1119 (15+)

SALALAH X-Men: Apocalypse (3D) (PG12) (Action) Cast: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender 8:45PM X-Men: Apocalypse (2D) (PG12) (Action) Cast: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender 1:30PM Warcraft (3D)(PG12) (3D) (PG12) (Action) Cast: Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster 12:30, 4:15, 6:30, 9:00, 11:30PM The Nice Guys (2D) (15+) (Action | Comedy) Cast: Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling 2:00, 9:30, 11:55PM The Angry Birds Movie (3D) (U) (Animation) Cast: Peter Dinklage, Tituss Burgess 4:45PM Money Monster (2D)(12+) (Crime | Drama) Cast: George Clooney, Julia Roberts 2:45, 11:45PM Pele: A Birth Legend (2D)(PG) (Biography | Drama | Sport) Cast: Vincent D’Onofrio, Rodrigo Santoro 6:45PM Wild for the Night (2D)(15+) (Crime| Music) Cast: Tommy Flanagan, Michael Roark, Bianca A. Santos 4:30PM Idhu Namma Aalu (2D)(PG) (Tamil) (Romantic) Cast: T.R. Silambarasan, Nayanthara, Andrea 9:00PM

Film information 24540856 / Advance Booking 24540855 Website: www.albahjacinemaoman.com

STAR CINEMA Film information 24791641 / 24786776 Website: www.isurf.co.om King Liar (Mal) (Comedy) Cast: Dileep, Siddique and Madonna Sebastian 6-30 PM Cinema-2; 3-30 & 9-30 pm Cinema Main Brahmotsavam (Telugu) (Drama) Cast: Mahesh Babu, Samantha and Kajal Agarwal 3-45 pm Cinema -4 Marudhu (Tamil) (Act) Cast: Vishal and Sri Divya 6-45 & 9-45 pm Cinema -4 Jacobinte Swargarajyam ( Mal) (Comedy) Cast: Nivin Pauly Renji Panicker & Lakshmi Ramakrishna 3-45, 6-45 & 9-45 pm Cinema-3 Idhu Namma Aalu (Tamil) (Drama) Cast: Silambarasan and Nayantara 6-30 pm Cinema Main; 3-30 & 9-30 pm Cinema-2 Next Change: Iraivi ( Tamil) Aa..Aaa (Telugu) Programmes are subject to change

0

MEERA W. RAHEEM AL BALUSHI May 30, 2015

PRANAY PREMJEET May 30, 2008

SIVANI SANTHOSH KUMAR May 30, 2004

TANISHQA MISHRA May 30, 2002

0

RELATIVE HUMIDITY

75-35%

Send us a colour photograph of the child (below 17 years) whose birthday you are celebrating, along with his/her full name, date of birth, address, telephone number and parents’/your name to Times of Oman, With Love, PO Box 770, PC 112, Ruwi or through e-mail to extra@ timesofoman.com

Daily Daily Daily

Sharjah Fujairah Ruwi

16:30 18.15 23.00

LISTINGS

ROYAL OMAN POLICE Emergencies and inquiries: 9999 General Directorate of Passport and Residence 24569603 Directorate General of Customs 24521109 Traffic violations inquiries 24510228 Public Relations Admin 24560099 EMBASSIES IN OMAN

Daily Daily Daily Daily

DUBAI TO SALALAH (ROUTE 102)

07:00

TO DUBAI (ROUTE 201) 06:00 06:00 13:00 13:00 15:00 15:00

Daily

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101)

SALALAH TO DUBAI (ROUTE 102) 15:00

10:25

TO SALALAH -MARMUL (ROUTE 100) Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101) 06:00

Ruwi

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (ROUTE 62)

10:30 11:15

TO MARMUL-SALALAH (ROUTE 100) 07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

07:00

TO SUR (ROUTE 55)

TO FAHUD - YIBAL (ROUTE 62) 06:30 06:30

Minimum

BAHJA CINEMA

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54)

TO SUR (ROUTE 55) 07:30 14:30

46 30

Cast : Vincent D’Onofrio, Rodrigo Santoro, 5:15PM Idhu Namma Aalu (Tamil | Romantic) Cast : T.R. Silambarasan, Nayanthara 6.45PM

WITH LOVE

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54)

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54) 08:00 08:00

08:55 Daily 11:40 Daily 20:20 Daily via Ibri 14:55 Daily 17:40 Daily 19:20 Daily 22:15 Daily

SOHAR X-Men: Apocalypse PG12 (3D) (Action) Cast: James McAvoy, Jennifer Lawrence 8:45, 11:45PM The Angry Birds Movie U (3D)( Animation) Cast: Peter Dinklage, Tituss Burgess 3:15PM King Liar PG12 (Malayalam) (Comedy) Cast: Dileep, Madonna Sebastian, Lal 9:00PM Brahmot Savam PG (Telugu/Comedy) Cast: Kajal Aggarwal, Mahesh Babu 6:15PM Money Monster 12+ (Crime | Drama) Cast: George Clooney, Julia Roberts 3:00, 11:55PM The Shamer’s Daughter PG12(Adventure) Cast: Allan Hyde, Jakob Oftebro, Roland Møller 5:00PM Warcraft PG12 (Action| Adventure | Fantasy) Cast: Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster 3:30, 6:30, 9:30, 11:30PM The Nice Guys 15+ (Action | Comedy) Cast : Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling 3:45, 7:15, 9:30, 11:45PM Pele: A Birth Legend PG (Biography)

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52) 20:50

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54) 14:30 14:30

Sohar Ruwi Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

Daily Daily Daily

RUWI Screen 1 Warcraft (2D) (Action / Adventure) –PG12 Cast : Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton 3.30, 9.30 PM Sarbjit (2D) (Drama ) –PG12 Cast : Aishwarya Rai and Randeep Hooda 6.30 PM Screen 2 Sarbjit(2D) (Drama ) –PG12 Cast : Aishwarya Rai and Randeep Hooda 3.45, 9.45 PM Baaghi (2D) (Action) –PG Cast :Tiger Shroff, Shraddha Kapoor, Sudheer Babu 6.45 PM

SUR X-Men : Apocalypse 3D (Crime | Drama) ( PG12 ) Cast : James Mc Avoy, Michael Fassbender 9:00 PM Warcraft 3D ( Action | Fantasy ) ( PG12 ) Cast : Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster 5:00, 7:15, 11:45 PM The Nice Guys (15+) Cast : Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling 9:30, 11:35 PM The Angry Birds Movie - (3D) ( Animation | Action | Comedy ) ( U ) Cast : Peter Dinklage, Tituss Burgess 4:45 PM Idhu Namma Aalu (Tamil | Action) (PG) Cast : T.R. Silambarasan, Nayanthara, Andrea Jeremiah 6:30 PM

WEATHER

QURIYAT - SUR - JAALAN (ROUTE 36) Quriyat Sur Jaalan

3:30, 8:45, 11:15 PM Azhar (Hindi) (2D) (Sports | Drama) (PG) Cast: Nargis Fakhri, Emraan Hashmi 10:30 PM Brahmot Savam (Telugu) (2D) (PG) Cast: Mahesh Babu, Kajal Aggarwal 6:30 PM Idhu Namma Aalu (Tamil) (2D) (Romance) Cast: Mahesh Babu, Kajal Aggarwal, Tanikella Bharani 6:30 PM (PG)

AZAIBA X-Men: Apocalypse (3D) (Action) (PG12) Cast: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender 3:15, 6:00, 11:45 PM Warcraft (3D) (Action) (PG12) Cast: Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster 3:45, 6:30, 9:15, 11:30 PM The Angry Bird Movie (3D) (Animation | Action | Comedy) (U) Cast: Peter Dinklage, Tituss Burgess 3:45 PM The Jungle Book (3D) (Family) (PG) Cast: Neel Sethi, Bill Murray, Ben Kingsley 5:45 PM King Liar (Mal) (2D) (Comedy) (PG12) Cast: Dileep, Madonna Sebastian, Lal 8:45 PM Sarabjit (Hindi) (2D) (Drama) (PG12) Cast: Aishwarya Rai Bacchan, Shiwani Saini

TO MUSCAT (RUWI) Arrival Operating time days

Wild for the Night (15+) (Crime| Musi) Cast: Tommy Flanagan, Michael Roark, Bianca A. Santos 5:15 & 11:30 PM

3:00 & 7:00PM Captain America: Civil War - (PG) (Action | Adventure| Sci-Fi) (3D) Cast: Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr 6:15PM The Jungle Book - (3D) Drama| Family) (PG) Cast: Neel Sethi, Bill Murray, Ben Kingsley 5:00PM

LONG DISTANCE BUS TIMINGS (OMAN NATIONAL TRANSPORT COMPANY SAOC) *SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Destination

12.09pm 3.29pm 6.54pm 8.15pm 3.54am

CHILDREN BELOW THE AGE OF 3 YEARS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN THE CINEMA | BOX-OFFICE COUNTER OPENS 30-MINUTES PRIOR TO THE SCREENING OF THE FIRST SHOW

@MGM

Dept time

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

Daily Daily Daily

Afghanistan Algeria Bahrain Bangladesh Brazil Brunei China Cyprus Egypt France Germany India Indonesia Iran Iraq Italy Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya South Korea Kuwait

24698 791/4 24605 593 24 605 074/133 24 698 660 24640100 24 603533 24 696782 24 699815 24 600 982/411 24681 800 24835000 24684500 2469 1050 24 696 944/7 24603642 24693727 24 601 028 24692760/1/3 24 692418 24 697664 24 691490 24 699628

Lebanon Libya Malaysia Morocco Nepal Netherlands Pakistan Palestine Philippines Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Senegal Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Switzerland Syria Tanzania Thailand Tunisia Turkey UAE United Kingdom United States Yemen

24 693208 24603466 24698329/643 24696152/3 24696177 24603706 24603439 24601312 24605335 24 691 153/2/4 24602894 24601705 24694139 24697977 24647300 24691101 24697841/2 24697875 24603267 24697904 24601 174 24 602684/5 24603486 24697050/1/2 24400000 24609000 24643400 24600815

PHARMACIES (ROUND THE CLOCK) Al Hashar Pharmacy, Ruwi 24783334 Apollo Medical Centre,

Hamriya Muscat Pharmacy, Ruwi Salalah Atlas Pharmacy, Ghubra Muscat Region Apollo, Al Hamriya Muscat, A Seeb Market Muscat, Al Khuwair Muscat, Al Hail South Dhofar Region Muscat, Al Nahdha Road, Salalah

24782666 24702542 23291635; 24503585 24787766 24421691 24485740 24537080

23291635

HOSPITALS Al Amal Medical & Health Care Centre 24485052 Atlas Hospital Ruwi 24811743/ Ghubra 24504000 Al Musafir Specialised Medical Clinic 24706453 Hatat Polyclinic LLC, Ruwi 24563641 Azaiba 24499269 Sohar 2683006 Al Raffah Hospital 24618900/1/2 Al Massaraat Clinic & Laboratory 24566435 Al Makook Medical Coordinance Centre 24499434 Apollo Medical Centre, Hamriya 24787766, 24787780

Capital Polyclinic 24707549 Badr Al Samaa Polyclinic, Ruwi 24799760/1/2 Capital Clinic, Seeb 24420740 Ceregem National Raak 24485633 Dr Harub’s Clinic 24563217 Elixir Health Centre 24565802 Emirates Medical Centre 24604540 1st Chiropractic Centre 24472274 Lifeline Hospital Salalah 23212340 International Medical Centre LLC 24794501/2/3/4/5 Kims Oman Hospital 24760100 24 Hrs Emergency 24760123 Lama Polyclinic, Sohar 26751128 MBD 24799077 Al Khuwair 24478818 Magrabi Eye and Ear Hospital 24568870 Muscat Private Hospital 24583600 Welcare Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, Al Khuwair 24477666 Al Hayat International Hospital, Al Ghubra 22004000, 94267068/97049520 Al Hayat Clinic, Al Hail 22009455

AIRLINE OFFICES Muscat Airport Flight information (24 hours) 24519456/24519223 Aeroflot 24704455 Air Arabia 24700828 Air France 24562153 Air India 24799801

Air New Zealand 24700732 Biman Bangladesh Airlines 24701128 British Airways 24568777 Cathay Pacific 24789818 Egypt Air 24794113 Emirates Air 24404400 Ethiopian Airlines 24660313 Gulf Air 80072424 Indian 24791914 Iran Air 24787423 Japan Airlines 24704455 Jazeera Airways 23294848 Jet Airways 24787248 Kenya Airways 24660300 KML Royal Dutch Airlines 24566737 Kuwait Airways 24701262 LOT Polish Airlines 24796387 Lufthansa 24796692 Malaysian Airlines 24560796 Middle East Airlines 24796680 Oman Air 24531111 Pakistan International Airlines 24792471 Qatar Airways 24771900 Qantas 24559941 Royal Jordanian 24796693 Saudi Arabian Airlines 24789485 Singapore Airlines 24791233 Shaheen Air 24816565 SriLankan Airlines 24784545 Swiss International Airlines 24796692 Thai Airways 24705934

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

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LIFESTYLE < FROM PAGE C5

According to many industry experts, Bose Acoustimass speakers are only able to produce sound from the onward of 46Hz to 13.3kHz at + or - 10.5dB fluctuation, with a maximum decibel output of 85, implying Bose home theatre systems are not able to meet standard specifications expected for DVD and CD content.

Because of a frequency gap between the bass module and the cube speaker, the Acoustimass speakers lose all audio in the 200 to 280Hz frequency range, (the range of human voice). The Bose bass module is unable to reproduce frequency ranges below 46Hz while DVDs have bass down to 20hz. The large 10dB fluctuation in frequency accuracy results in inaccurate sounds between 280Hz and 13kHz resulting in sound being louder or softer than the original recording.

The cube speakers have a frequency range of 280Hz to 13.3kHz at + or - 10.5dB. Compare this to the 50Hz to 45kHz at + or - 3dB of the SKR-980 2-way surround speaker of the ONKYO HTS9700THX, which I tested later on, and found out to be way better than the Acoustimass 10, and still cheaper than the Bose.

In common terms, the Bose Acoustimass home theatre setup nullifies a quarter of the audible sound originally presented by DVDs and CDs. The remaining three-fourth is presented with a high degree of error, up to 10dB louder or softer than originally recorded.

Through acoustic tweaks like the reflecting design that supposedly creates a larger sound stage by reflecting sound off of side walls, Bose is able to create the illusion of accurate and full range sound. However, this does not change the fact that Bose speakers are not accurately

reproducing the sounds, and the created soundstage is artificial.

Audiophiles chastise it, and rightly so, for being too over pricey, and sub-par in sound compared to other not-so-popular audio bigwigs.

However, one thing to note here is that Bose gained its ground by making things immensely easy for its customers.

The average music lover just wants exceptional sound without having to ascend the learning curve, and that’s where Bose seems to take the game away. Bose is of the very few premium acoustic brands which offer HIB (Home Theatre in Box) options. The rest have their endless lines of various components, and you are required to build your own custom set-up.

Setting up a perfect sound system is a very complex science,

Bose is not the highest sound quality product on the market; it is rather a package of design and convenience, which is quite appealing to a significant percentage of the market

with delicate nuances and subtleties. With a perfect sound system, the listener must not be able to detect where the bass sound is coming from; the sound should be ‘non-localisable’. The listener should feel as if it is coming from all around, blending seamlessly into the musical fabric.

If one is able to locate the origins of the sounds, then either the system is poorly designed or the setup is not correct. Even a wrongly placed Sub could end playing spoilsport. You need expert knowledge to achieve this seamless integration between the subwoofer and satellites for a smooth flawless response.

Bose with its Acoustimass system, employing their patent port design, produces ‘virtually invisible’ loudspeakers by building a bass module that could be hidden

anywhere in a room, and having small satellite speakers to reproduce the higher pitched notes, delivering an overall fuller sound experience, no matter even if a bit artificial.

Bose also adds very much to its appeal with its minimalistic designs and wireless setups (top of range models). Shifting the heavy woofers along with the sub woofer into bass module, Bose has been successful in hugely reducing the size of its surround speakers – or as Bose puts it: cubes, without compromising on sound quality.

To sum up, Bose is not the highest sound quality product on the market; it is more a package of design and convenience, which is quite appealing to a significant percentage of the market. Bose has even played the high-price-tag card to its advantage, creating an illusion of exclusivity to its products.

Consumers, who are not entirely aware of the world of acoustics and the other options available, consider Bose ‘high end’.

As many Bose owners as I could get in touch with swore by it simply for the reason that it were Bose and believed it was the best. Most even didn’t know what frequency range meant, or exactly what technology Bose employed for that class-apart sound that they claimed it to have.

Through high priced marketing, wide availability, and big time promotions, Bose has created a massive market for their speakers. Their state-of-the-art Bose showrooms equipped with demo-theatres create magic in controlled settings, playing only the content their speakers could cater well to. Common sense is not so common these days after all. Well played Bose.

— faisal@timesofoman.com

T E C H TA L K

3D Model Shows How Sea Waves Move Materials Over Long Distances Mathematicians have developed a new 3-D model that reveals how invisible internal sea waves move over long distances microscopic organisms, contaminants and nutrients necessary to support aquatic life. The simulation developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo showcases behaviour of underwater bulges called mode-2 internal waves. In the model, fluids of different densities are layered like

the layers of a cake, creating an environment similar to that found in large aquatic bodies such as oceans and lakes. A middle layer of fluid, known as a pycnocline, over which the layers are closely packed together is created, and it is in this layer that materials tend to be caught, according to the study presented recently in the journal Physics of Fluids. “When the fluid behind the gate is mixed and then the gate is

removed, the mixed fluid collapses into the stratification because it is both heavier than the top layer and lighter than the bottom one,” said David Deepwell, who created the 3-D model along with Marek Stastna of Waterloo. “Adding dye to the mixed fluid while the gate is in place simulates the material we want the mode-2 waves — the bulges in the pycnocline formed once the gate is taken away — to transport. We can

then measure the size of the wave, how much dye remains trapped within it, and how well the wave carries its captured material,” he added.

The researchers found that the larger the bulge within the pycnocline, the larger the amount of material carried by the mode-2 wave.

The study can help researchers understand how this type of wave interacts with underwater topography like sea mounts. — IANS

C8

MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016

LIFESTYLE

GOING WIRELESS Entertainment is taking to the next level, as the technology advances each passing day.

If TV has gone from pot-bellied to smart and slim, sound systems have advanced from stereo to Dolby digital surround, and what not. The newest bling in the world of acoustics is going wireless. Forget the hassles of managing and hiding all those cables from connecting speakers of your home theatre system.

FACTS AND FIGURES 75% of home theatre owners have true 5.1 channel or greater surround sound.

73%

76%

of home of surround theatre owners sound owners said upgraded sound is the important extra feature on DVDs.

60%

63%

82%

of home theatre owners

of surround sound owners

said they choose a sound format at the beginning of a movie.

said they were aware of DTS.

WIRELESS SPEAKERS, HOW DOES IT WORK? What is a wireless home theatre? Has a set of wireless surround sound speakers synced to a system that incorporates wireless home networking.

The A/V receiver amp transmits audio signals using radio frequency (RF) or infrared (IF) waves rather than over audio cables.

A transmitter device is attached to the speaker connections on the audio source, and a receiving device is attached to, or included in the speakers to be placed remotely.

Types of transmission media for wireless speakers IR or infrared based systems: Use light transmissions to transmit data to the remote receiver.

RF or radio frequency: Use radio signals to transmit data, in this case audio, to the remote receiver.

Source: Digihometheater.com

BEAR IN MIND ĄŕMost wireless speaker systems do not have the bandwidth that can be provided with their wired counterparts, so the wireless systems have a tendency to be less accurate to the sound played. ĄŕThe farther away the speaker receivers are from the transmitters, the more likely you will have distortion. ĄŕDo proper market research prior to purchase. Don’t go by word of mouth. ĄŕEven the claimed best system might not be to your liking whereas a not so good system might sound just perfect to you. ĄŕCommunicate all your requirements and the dimensions of the place you intend to set up the system at. Location and settings matter the most for the home theatre system to perform to its fullest.

D

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M M O N DAY, M AY 3 0, 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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*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

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M O N DAY, M AY 3 0, 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

FOR RENT

FURNISHED OFFICES FOR RENT ǀĂŝůĂďůĞ Ăƚ Ă ƉƌŝŵĞ ůŽĐĂƟ ŽŶ ŽŶ Azaiba Service Road (Previously OĐĐƵƉŝĞĚ ďLJ ͛^Ăī Ă &ŽŽĚƐͿ near Al Turky and Mazda showroom.

ŽŶƚĂĐƚ͗ 95215289, 99229263, 93221054

*Tourist visa arranged

ʽ ^ãÊÙ ZÊÊÃÝ

¥ÊÙ Z Äã

ǀĂŝůĂďůĞ Ăƚ Ă ƉƌŝŵĞ ůŽĐĂƟ ŽŶ ŽŶ azaiba service road ;ƉƌĞǀŝŽƵƐůLJ ŽĐĐƵƉŝĞĚ ďLJ ͛^Ăī Ă &ŽŽĚƐͿ ŶĞĂƌ ů dƵƌŬLJ ĂŶĚ DĂnjĚĂ ƐŚŽǁƌŽŽŵ

Just 2 OMR / Sqm, Showroom / store for rent Ground floor & basement, area - 1100 Sqm, location Seh Al Ahmer, 20 km to Rusayl.

Contact: 97714433 / 93437982

ŽŶƚĂĐƚ͗ 95215289, 99229263, 93221054

Available for lease Open Commercial Land of 21370 sqm near AL Nahda Resort, Shaksuk, Barka. Contact : 99337160

Flats for rent at Just RO 160/- 2 Bed room, hall, kitchen , 2 toilets, location Seh Al Ahmer, 20 KM to Rusayl, including AC & roof Garden.

Contact: 97714433 / 93437982

Office for rent in Al Ansab near bank Muscat. Contact: 99466173 3 Rooms, 2 Toilets Flat for Rent.

18 November Street. Near Mars Hypermarket and The Chedi.

Ghobrah -Good for Commercial or Residential use. OMR 295/- month.

Call 94477222 Deluxe 1 & 2 bedroom flats, ideal for office or residence at Qurum near PDO. Contact: 97721313 / 95070421 Two flats, each flat consist 3 bedrooms, 3 toilets and kitchen in South Al Mabella near Indian School. Contact: 99757672 Flat for rent in Ruwi Al Mumtaz area 300/-R.O 2BHK, sitting room, hall, 2 bathrooms, kitchen with A/C Contact: 99722838 / 93294878 / 93294877 Flat for rent in Al Wadi Kabir near to the Kuwaiti Mosque 225 R.O, 1BHK, sitting room, bathrooms, kitchen with A.C. Contact : 93294878 / 93294877 Flat for rent in Al Wadi Kabir near to the Kuwaiti Mosque 300 R.O, 2 BHK, sitting room, 2 bathrooms, kitchen with A.C. Contact: 93294878 / 93294877 Flat for rent in Al Wadi Kabir near to the Kuwaiti Mosque 390/- R.O, 3 BHK , sitting room, three bathrooms, kitchen with A.C. Contact: 93294878 / 93294877 Flat for rent in Ruwi Al Walja near to the Honda road RO 200/-, 1 BHK, sitting room, bathrooms, kitchen with A.C. Contact: 93294878 / 93294877 1000 sqmtrs industrial land for rent in Ghala suitable for warehouse workshop etc.

Contact 24700120 / 92584715

2 Bedroom Flat for rent located in Prime location of Ruwi.

Contact: 92197959 / 92502497 2 Bedroom Townhouse with Swimming pool, free Wi-Fi for Rent near British School in Madinat Sultan Qaboos. Contact: 92197959 / 92502497 Office for rent located in Prime location of Azaiba Main Highway.

Contact: 92197959 / 92502497 1BHK Mumtaz R.O 225/-.

Contact: 92144045 2 BHK available Mumtaz area Ruwi & Ghubra near Al Maha Hotel.

Contact: 99269751 1 & 2 BHK Flat in Al Khuwair.

Contact 99792181 3 BHK Flat in Azaiba.

Contact 99792181 60 + 100 + 180 + 600 Sqr Mtrs Office Space for Rent in Al Khuwair. Contact 99792181 Flat for rent in Darsait 1BHK. Contact: 99357586 / 97500025 / 97500021 Shop for rent in Ghubra prime location. Contact: 94281797 Al Khuwair 17, villa 3 B. Rooms, 3 toilets, kitchen, hall owner.

Contact: 99385553 Ware house open type in Saham, shared basis at OMR 150.00 P.M. Contact +968 99450811 & 9921 3487, EMAIL: Shiju@spec-link.com Villa in Seeb near Dreams Resort and close to the sea. Contact: 24182000 / 95250300/ 99110600

House in North Al Hail with 3 rooms, living room, hall, 4 toilets 300 RO. Contact 99738881 / 99439568 2 bed rooms flat with hall, 2 bathrooms in Darsait near Muscat Municipality. Contact: 92584715 / 24700120 Plot at Barka next to Germany College & next to Aramex Company, next to Bahwan Warehouse, next to Omasco warehouse 37,074 SQM2 required 0.250 Baiza per SQM. Contact: 99888390 Shop for rent at Wadi Kabir Industrial area. Contact: 99888390 Flat for rent in Al Khoud, 2 rooms & hall. Contact: 917633665 Ruwi office space for rent, Saravana Bhava Building.

Contact: 91120552

2 Bedrooms Flat for rent located in Prime location of Al Khuwair. Contact: 92197959 / 92502497.

Office 55SQ.Mtrs & 2B/R at Bausher directly from owner.

Contact: 92158031

1 BHK and 2BHK Flats available near Lulu Darsait (Main road, Opp. to Min. of Defense). Contact : 93202733

Villa for rent in South Mabellah, 3 bedrooms, sitting room, family Lounge, kitchen, three Toilets Contact 92212212 between 10 AM to 5 PM.

1 bedroom family / bachelors in Al Khuwair R.O 100/-.

Contact: 95154331

2BHK split A/C 200/- Monthly & 1BHK spilt A/C 150/- monthly new building good location Barka Market. contact 99342661

Flat for rent in Wadi Al Kabeer including 3 rooms with ACs. Contact: 99333639 Staff Complex villa (Al Khuwair 17) 10 rooms, 10 toilets, 7 kitchens.

Owner Contact: 99385553 Villa for rent in Al Ghubrah, 5 rooms, hall. Contact: 91763665 1BHK Flats for rent, behind Sheraton hotel in Ruwi, rent R.O 250/per month. Contact: 96051941 Al Khuwair 17 a new room, toilet, kitchen, deluxe owner.

Contact: 99385553 2 BHK at Azaiba behind Bahwan half KM. Contact: 99224748 / 99332297 For rent New flats at Darsait Al Sahail. Contact: 99777351 House in Darsait 3 rooms, kitchen, 1 bathroom with A/C. Contact: 95522405 4 bedroom villa at Madinat Illam Office / 1 BHK Ruwi. #95915154 1BHK Ghubra R.O 275/-.

Contact: 92144045

Flats in Al Khuwair, Al Ghubra, Azaiba, Wadi Kabeer, Darsait, Hamriya, Al Hail & Seeb.

Contact: 24182000 / 95250300 / 99110600

1BHK at Hamriya near Muscat Pharmacy & 2 BHK at Mawaleh near Mosque Sadiq Al Amin.

Contact: 99224748 / 99332297

Shop in Seeb market. Contact: 24182000 / 95250300/ 99110600

3BHK Al Khuwair R.O 375/-.

Contact: 92144045

Flats for rent near Indian School in Wadi Kabir. Contact 99777122

1BHK Mumtaz R.O 225/-.

Contact: 92144045

Double bedroom flats available in Honda road, Ruwi and Mabellah.

Contact: 24833972/ 24833974 Mobile 99367448

1BHK Darsait R.O 225/-.

Contact: 92144045

3 Bedroom well maintained flat (villa Type only 2 flats in villa) in Al Khuwair, behind Al Akhtam Restaurant villa No 1841, Way No 3922--- block no 239.

Contact: 99462980 Flat for rent in Al Qurum, 3 rooms & hall. Contact: 91763660

Room Al Khuwair R.O 110/-.

Contact: 97799175 New flats Wadi Al Kabir.

Contact: 92130703 Flats in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 94051789 / 97201688 Flat for rent in Al Khuwair 33.

Contact: 92277419

Villa for rent in Al Khoud, 6 rooms, hall. Contact: 91763665 3000 Sqr mtrs compound land in Misfah. Contact 99792181 1 B/R Fully Furnished Luxury Apartment @ Al Khuwair 33.

2 B/R Fully Furnished Luxury Apartment @ Al Khuwair 33. 4 B/R Unfurnished Apartment with attached Split A/C @ Azaiba. Contact: Atlas Real Estate & Rent A Car LLC : 99249069 / 94617563/ 99436312, Email: info@alshahiintl.com 5 BHK Villa in Al Khuwair, for Staff Accommodation. Contact 99792181 2 & 3 BHK Flat in Al Khuwair & Ghubra. Contact 99792181 Flat for rent Al Hail North to the Wave Muscat ground floor with furniture the price RO 250/-.

Contact: 99353433 Flat for rent 2 bedrooms in Ruwi Mumtaz area. Contact: 91409667 / 24291500 Flats, shops & store for rent in MBD area Ruwi, Mumtaz area.

Contact: 97293708 / 92433127 Offices and Flats in Ghala.

Contact 94051789 / 97201688 Fully Furnished apartments in Boucher (35). Contact 94051789 / 97201688 Four bedroom two floors luxurious and spacious residential villa in Al Hail North, near to the sea and Oman oil. Each room has its own bathroom. It has splits A/C’s and shaded car park. OMR 750 monthly. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955

Shop for rent good location main road behind wholesale hyper market Amerat space 11 MT long, 4 MT Width. Contact: 92877449 Two bedrooms flat in Al Ghobrah near Oman Oil of 18 November Street. OMR 330 Monthly.

Contact 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955.

Flat for Rent 2 bed room Near ISM muscat Indian Scoole Dar sate Tel : 00 968 95158570 Flats in Darsait. Contact 94051789 / 97201688 Brand new villas in Al Ansab. Contact 94051789 / 97201688 Flats in Ghobrah. Contact 94051789 / 97201688 Flats in Muttrah. Contact 94051789 / 97201688 Warehouse at Wadikabir - total area 3500 sqm - covered warehouse (500sqm), office, accommodation (1000sqm), open area (2000sqm) please contact: 99273774 - 99202278 Flat for rent 2 BHK 2 split A/C, 2 toilets, Wadi Kabir near Kuwaiti Masjid. Contact: 97007934 / 92629232 Furnished office (61M2) for sale / rent Al Khuwair near Zawawi Mosque. Contact: 95611569 1 Bed room, sharing K& T, R.O 100, 2 bedrooms , sharing K& T R.O 200/in AL Khuwair. Contact: 95154331 Flat in Al Khuwair opp grand mall 4 room 3 toilet + hall kitchen in 3 floor 400. Contact 99420346

Villa in Al Khoud consists of 6 bedrooms, 1 sitting & living room. Contact: 91153933

Flat for rent in South AlGhubrah 3 rooms, hall and 3 toilets, kitchen rent 450/-. Contact: 99335580

4 BHK Villa in Bowsher Heights.

Contact 99792181

2 BHK flat at Ruwi Mumtaz area RO 320/-. Contact: 99358589 / 97079146 / 95570288

1700 sqr mtrs open Land + small store + garage for Rent in Ruwi.

Contact 99792181

Offices & Showrooms in Al Khood.

Contact 94051789 / 97201688

M O N DAY, M AY 3 0, 2 0 1 6

D3

DAILY GUIDE

FOR SALE

FOR SALE Shop for sale near Oman House, Muttrah. Contact 99024362.

Space for printing press available at wadikabir with or without machinery. Contact 99328430

Warehouse available

FOR RENT IN BALADIA SANAYAH AMIRAT (Floor area 600sqmtrs and mezzanine of 500sqmtrs) 1100sqmts fully cover warehouse & staff accommodations

Please contact: G.S.M

99417229/92621039 NRI 910 sq ft furnished flat at Qupem Goa. Contact: 97094797 Two properties at Bangalore for sale (1) 3 BHK Senior living apartment with full fledged facilities & services in Ozone Urbana Serene project for the cost price of Irene project. Handover by August 2016.

(2) 4 B/R villa (BUA 3600sq.ft, 4 floors, 3 Livings, 5 bathrooms, maid’s room & car park) for sale at JP Nagar. Contact Mrs. Mangala Ph: 97903127, Email: ravichandran.mangala@gmail.com

FOR RENT 02 BHK residential flat opposite to Al Nahdha hospital.

Contact: 99342733 /99795241 Villa in Bousher consists of 5 rooms, 1 hall & living room.

Contact: 91153933 Villa in Al Ghubra consists of 5 bedrooms, 1 hall and living room.

Contact: 91153933 Room with 9 bathrooms in Bousher for rent. Contact: 91153933 Apartment in Al Khoudh consists of 2 room & hall.Contact: 91153933 2 bed rooms flat with hall, 2 bathrooms in Darsait near Muscat Municipality.

Contact: 92584715/ 24700120 Fully furnished offices in Ghala main Street. Contact: 94300909 Flats In Qurum.

Contact 94051789 / 97201688 2BHK Big Size Flat Behind Bank Muscat, Wadi Kabir. Near ISWK. 97826454, 24815012.

2BHK split A/C for rent Muttrah near Oman House.

Contact: 97007934 / 92629232 1BHK Studio flat near Star Cinema RO 180/-. Contact: 99358589 / 97079146 / 95570288

Running Coffee Shop at Hamariya/Ruwi for sale with CR & Visa.

Contact : 92824153 / 99881187 Running pharmacy for sale on main road in Barka with Pharmacist. Contact: 99452755 603 sq mtrs residential land in Al Hail North Block 45 NE near Radio station. OMR 95 Thousand.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955 Ladies fashion boutique for sale in Al Khuwair. Contact: 24702870 Villa for sale in Mabela 6 rooms, living room & hall.

Contact: 91763665 Dental chairs for sale sparingly used dental units for sale.

Contact Mr. Ansari 92616343.

Kumar 99570284 Dental clinic for immediate sale doctor going abroad. Contact: 92882209 / 96373097 2 Shops for sale at prime location in Ghobra. Contact: 96381294 Bozlur Apartment for sale location Bowshar apartment 105m has one sitting room, kitchen, balcony, two rooms with cupboards & curtains & 3 toilets. Contact: 99822260 / 94400777 6 Villas of six bedrooms each under construction in one compound in Bausher near Muscat Private hospital. Prices range from 165 thousand to 179 thousand for each villa. Each villa has three floors and 369 sq mtrs build up area.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955

HD Scaffoldings, Shuttering Jacks, Wooden Planks, Shuttering wood assorted, Tower hoist (lift), Concrete Mixer, Bending Machine, Steel Fabrication Machinery (Searing/Cutting, lathe & Welding) including tools for immediate sale: Contact 99273774/ 99202278 Single colorful Bed and Sofa for Sale at Al Khuwair. Contact 92881849 /What`s up No 97290565 Urgent sale of steel scrap only serious buyers kindly contact +968 96725423 for viewing the items.

Almost new beach/ garden lounge chairs /bar stools/ counter.

Photos can be sent 95865457

ACC. AVAILABLE Sharing accommodation available large size room with bath, passage, and kitchen at Darsait (near ISD School). Contact: 99419390 Executive lady room & Bathroom in Wadi Kabir. Contact: 99336206 Room, bathroom for Executives in Wadi Kabir. Contact: 99336206 Big single room with separate entry & attached toilet near Al Nadha Hospital. Contact: 99228295 Room available with attached bath & balcony for an Executive bachelor near MBD area.

Contact: 95779616 Sharing accommodation for Executive bachelor / family near Badr Sama Ruwi. Contact: 99008436 Furnished single room available for Executive bachelor or small family in Walja near Honda road Ruwi. Contact: 99016546

Luxury Apartments in Boucher (35). Contact 95056808 / 97201688

Furnish bedroom with attach bathroom for executive bachelor.

Contact: 97704794

Double Shutter 80 sq mtrs corner textile shop in Seeb Souq for sale.

Contact 99326339

Full Furnished room with attached bathroom near Star Cinema for ex. Bachelor/lady. Contact 92886715 / 99782133

1No brand new containerized package type STP 100 m3/ day with blower equipments (suitable for camps). Serious Buyers may.

Contact: 99445367 2 Nos brand new sea water reverse osmosis plants 500m3/ day, containerized in knock down condition with American PD pumps & process pumps for immediate sale.

Serious buyers may Contact: 99445367 400 sq mtrs Commercial/Residential land in Mabela Phase 5 Block 2. OMR 165 Thousand.

Contact 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955 Steel Scrap materials for immediate sale. Contact 99273774/ 99202278

1 big room with attached bathroom with sharing kitchen available for small Muslim Family, Near Spar, Mumtaz area, Ruwi, Muscat.

Contact 99662698.

Room with attached bathroom for a family in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 97167857 1 BHK appartment for rent in Al Khoud Shabiya near mazoon mosque for rent (next to alkhoud medical center and squ) MOB: 93913224 Small old house for rent in Ghobra. Contact: 97165972 Room with attached bathroom and sharing kitchen available for Executive bachelor or small family at wadikabir Contact 93049849

ACC. AVAILABLE Room available for family / bachelor opposite to o.K. Center, Ruwi.

Gsm 942-888-63 Fully furnished room with access to kitchen is ideal for a bachelor or couple situated in Al Bustan village, and is close to the beach and the hotel.

Plz contact 99378964 / 96607448 Furnished apartment for rent, two rooms, majlis, hall, kitchen.

Near Carrefour al-mawalah.

Contact 99336776

SITUATION WANTED BUSINESS

Sharing accommodation near ISD. Contact: 99657340 1 BHK for rent, Ideal for small family or two bachelors, easy access to main road with AC near Sheraton hotel, CBD. Contact: 96444400 Sharing Accommodation available for working ladies opposite Al Nadhah Hospital. Preferably Indians. Room with seperate toilet and sharing kitchen.RO.90.

Contact 96524717 Furnished room attached bath for Indian bachelor, Al-Falaj Ruwi & lady Wadi Kabir near Mars hypermarket. CONTACT 96202458/96761960 Room available in Mumtaz area 1 room, 1 Bathroom, Kitchen & 1 room, common bathroom. Interested pleasecontact 92680041 Mr. Altaf Room available for Executive bachelor at Al Hail.

Contact 96234708

WANTED Urgently required looking to immediately buy used Grit blasting & airless spray equipment 1 No each. Contact: 968 24810930 / 93203772 / 93203773 / 93203778 IELTS Coaching (academic) required nearby wadi Kabir area.

Please call on mobile or msg on Whats up. Mobile no: 92927880/ 99012165

BUYING Bobcat available for rent.

Contact 97623299 Used office house furniture & electronic items.

Contact: 99834373 / 96642500 Buying cars for cash.

Contact: 90202090

ONE STOP SHOP BUSINESS SERVICES Public Relation Service (PRO) Document Clearance, Business setup, Formation new Companies, LLC Companies, Investor Visa, Legal Services.

Contact Saleh:

96723485 WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price.

Contact: http//webviewoman IT Consultancy division available interested person to handle the above division can Contact: 92162623 Want to market a product.

Contact: 92162623

INVESTOR PARTNER REQUIRED For a successfully Catering Restaurant Investor cum Partner is required.

Investor with fixed returns also welcome.

Please contact – 95213273

Email: muscatcoffeeshop@gmail.com Coffee shop for sale 7 visa available at Al Khuwair.

Contact: 98826793

MV SALE Mitsubishi Pajero model 2006, full option, 6 cylinders, 3800 CC in a very good condition .

Contact: 99376567

MATRIMONIAL Malankara Catholic Male Nurse (28) from Thiruvalla working in Nizwa Private Co. Alliance invites parents/nurses working in Oman.

Contact 968 98267338, 0091 9287215726

MATRIMONIAL Sunni Muslim (Urdu) girl B.E, MBA, 25 years HT 5.1” fair invites alliance from Tamil Nadu Bangluru / Mysore. Contact: 99502581 Indian male Roman Catholic 40yrs divorcee working in Muscat.

Seeks suitable alliance from widow/ divorcee/ single.

Contact 96059801.

Parent of Thrissur based Hindu Ezhava girl aged 20, Slim,Atham star, Studying for B. Pharm seeking alliance from well employed Graduates, preferably in Engineering Contact :96425102

D4

M O N DAY, M AY 3 0, 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT

SITUATION WANTED

HOTEL MANAGER A new modern 3 star hotel located in a prime location at Bawshar – Muscat is looking for a Hotel Manager. The Candidate should be a holder of degree or an equivalent qualification in Hotel Management and should have at least 5 years’ experience at the Hotel industry with 2 years at least as Hotel manager.

Interested Candidates can e-mail CV’s to Qaisbahwan@yahoo.com

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE

ADMIN

Part Time Accounting, Audit Preparation, Internal Audit, Monthly Reports, Accounting set up for new companies, Project Report for Bank Loan purposes. GSM : 96975454, email: ibfc.gcc@gmail.com

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

Indian male good experience in accounts, Admin & ERP, Tally 9 NOC available looking for suitable job.

Contact: 94834687

Indian female BE (EC) with 2 years HR /IT/ Admin experience looking suitable placement now in visit visa.

Contact: 93263169

Senior Accountant 5 years experience NOC available up to finalization valid D/L. Contact: 96339599 Email: ahmedmohdkhan@gmail.com

Indian, 20 years experience in Oman as Personal Assistant / Office Manager / Executive Secretary / Senior Administrator / Business Development Asst. seeks job change. Release available.

Contact 99168054.

Indian male 32 Chartered Accountant having 2 years Oman experience looking for suitable placement in finance & Audit fields.

Contact: 96357827 Email: ubaiskeeran@gmail.com Indian (Male) having 17+years Experience in Trading & Healthcare seeking senior Position in Accounts (11 years GCC Experience ) currently on Resident Visa (NOC Available ) and has a valid Omani Driving Licence. Contact: 91335026; skumartp@gmail.com

MAINTENANCE

MANAGER

SALES EXECUTIVES ; ƵďĂŝ͕ ^ĂƵĚŝ͕ YĂƚĂƌ Θ KŵĂŶͿ

Please send your C V to

WƌŽŵŝŶĞŶƚ ƵŝůĚŝŶŐ DĂƚĞƌŝĂůƐ dƌĂĚŝŶŐ ŽŵƉĂŶLJ ƌĞƋƵŝƌĞƐ ^ĂůĞƐ džĞĐƵƟ ǀĞƐ ĨŽƌ ǀĂƌŝŽƵƐ ' ůŽĐĂƟ ŽŶƐ͘ Graduates with minimum 3 year experience in Sales may sent their resume to

hralsom@gmail.com

cv4gcc@gmail.com

BEAUTICIAN

ENGINEER/MECHANIC.

For a reputed company Well experienced in building & villas all type of maintenance.

Require experienced Beautician for parlor, visa available.

Contact: 92285241

Civil Engineer, Masons, Helpers, Shuttering, Carpenters, Steel fixers with 5 yrs experience in Oman.

Contact: 97491117

DOMESTIC HELPER IT Required Office Boy. Contact : 91120552 House maid for small Omani family.

Contact: 92158031 Required house maid part time in Azaiba for Keralite family.

Contact : 96758982 A full time living Housemaid required for an Indian family in Ghobrah. Contact: 97335255

DRIVER Required Store keeper with valid Omani light driving license, min. experience 2-3 years.

Contact : 92341826 Driver required for a leading Courier company. Send CV to info@atsglobex.com Contact: 00968-97461515 Salary: Negotiable.

Required Omani Driver for a restaurant. Contact 95929911 Wanted a experience Driver for Capital and Interior work.

Gsm : 942-888-63

Wanted driver. Contact: 97165972

DESIGNER Urgently required Designer minimum 5 years experience with different design concept and any related jobs Contact: 93218176 / Email: joboman88@gmail.com

Required Shop Sales man + Hardware Technician for IT Company with minimum 2 years experience.

Contact: 98825806 / 98825806, Email: info@rns-group.com

MEDICAL Required gynecologist GEN: practitioner lady lab Technician and pharmacologist immediately for a clinic in Suwaiq.

Contact: 95081010 Email: umchealthcare@gmail.com Urgently required Pharmacist & MOH licensed female Dentist for a reputed polyclinic. Send CV : manageribnalhaitham@yahoo.com or call 96721709.

Wanted G.P Doctor, Pharmacist, Lab Technician and Staff Nurse for a running medical clinic near Sohar area. Contact 95272672 Care Medical Centre Al Seeb requires Gynecologist and General Practitioner.

Mail CV to:sarita_h23@yahoo.com

Indian Civil Diploma / ITI /Experienced person with DL for a small construction and maintenance company in Muscat to work as partner. Investment not required.

Contact 99039756.

Fresher 24, ACCA Affiliate, Advanced diploma in Accounting and Business seeking suitable placement in Accounts, Finance or Audit with Oman driving license.

Contact - 92430152 Email - raju.rd619@gmail.com

SALES / MARKETING Wanted experienced outdoor Salesman with computer knowledge in designing with valued Oman driving license or any other GCC valid license holders for a screen printing & Advertising firm.

Contact: 00968 94548749 Email: arscreens04@gmail.com

Required marketing / PR manager for a modern restaurant group in Oman , proficient in illustrator & Photoshop charismatic , proactive , creative & flexible excellent writing / Editing skills degree in relevant area fluent in English. Send CV to marketingpr2016@gmail.com

Urgently required Printing & Stationary Salesman (minimum 3 years experience in field.

Contact: 93218176 / Email: joboman88@gmail.com

Required female person to work at the retail shop/Marketing.

Please send your CV on e mail: Zeyanaalharmaly@yahoo.com

Required smart, young, dynamic Sales & Marketing Executive having 2-3 years sales experience for a reputed manufacturing company in Oman, having its Head Office in Ruwi.

Experience in building materials is an added advantage. Omani Driving License and NOC is a must. Attractive remuneration package.

Apply with photograph to E-mail: salesjobds@gmail.com

Indian male age 26, Accountant one year experience in accounts looking for suitable job. Contact Email: Anishkhan991867@gmail.Com Mobile: +968 9565 9415

Wanted Steward / Deckhand for Yacht in Muscat, Housekeeping & Guest service duties. Contact: Whatsapp 95887572 Email: alibadawy@gmail.com Required candidates for following posts: Accountant, Storekeeper, Foreman Building Maintenance, Van-salesman (water), Helpers.

Candidates with Omani driving license preferred.

Contact 99273774/99202278

SALES / MARKETING Urgently required looking to immediately buy used Grit blasting & airless spray equipment 1 No each. Contact: 968 24810930 / 93203772 / 93203773 / 93203778

Urgently required Offset Printer (5 years experience in the same and well versed in any related jobs. Contact: 93218176 / Email: joboman88@gmail.com Required Indian Mason – 5 nos., eligibility (minimum 5 yrs experience in road construction field).

Contact: 99882127 Email: georgymv@yahoo.com

Accounts part time services, available to handle all accounts up to finalization on monthly basis.

Finalization and audit works.

Contact: 96247295 Young Indian male ACCA finalist with B.Sc (Hons) in applied Accounting with 3 years experience & holding valid Omani driving license seeks immediate placement, NOC available.

Contact: 92851056 Accountant available with NOC, 7 years experience in Oman.

Ready to join immediately.

Contact 98263394 ACCA member with 6 yrs of experience in Oman looking for a suitable job in finance.

Contact: 99284193 28/male/MBA - finance/B.Com Accountant with 4 years of Dubai/ India experience looking for a suitable placement.

Contact 90187483 shobinkarikkan1987@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

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE

GP doctor needed for reputed clinic. Preferably with MOH license or with Dataflow & Paramatics pass Contact: 95388934 Require a qualified Nurse to take care of an elderly female.

Contact: 99425200

SKILLED / UNSKILLED

SITUATION WANTED SIT. WANTED

Indian male 26 years MBA experience in Accountant & Administration in a MNC company currently on visit visa ready to join. Contact: +968 92194987 email: achal1989@hotmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS

Wanted Marine Engineer for yacht in Muscat.

Contact: Whatsapp 95887572 Email: alibadawy@gmail.com

Sudanese accountant holding BSC, CIB 8 Post Graduate Diploma in financial management with Banking experience in projects finance. Contact: 99061339

Wanted Staff Nurse for a dermatology clinic in Muscat .

Must have MOH license and NOC. Attractive salary offered. Email: clinicvacancy2015@gmail.com

ENGINEER/MECHANIC. Urgently Required: MEP Manager Engineer- minimum 10years experience with NOC in Oman for immediately join. Interested candidates may call us to our office telephone: 00968- 24696584/ 24696585 or fax: 0096824605955 or email us to sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com

Part Time Accountant, up to finalization of accounts, looking for job after 5 PM (location prefer MSQ to Al Hail). Contact: 90935099

Accountant 2.5 years exp in Oman, NOC available with valid D/L. Contact: 98870112 Email: rashadmeethal@gmail.com B.Com Graduate 10 years experience in Oman accounts & auditing.

NOC available. Contact: 95716128 mail: jaigomesh.ganesh@gmail.com Accountant available with NOC, plus 10 years experience up to finalization of Accounting, Inventory Control on Tally ERP9, ready to join immediately. Contact: 97667273 Email: babujashid@gmail.com MBA female looking for job in accounting or in marketing or Administration department having 1 year experience have knowledge of Tally ERP9, MS Word.

Contact: 95910427 Email: ritashivprasad111@gmail.com Indian female with B.Com & CA Inter having overall 12 years experience in accounting / finance field, now on visit visa. # 90651102

Qualified and experienced MBA post graduate with proven work exposure in Middle East & India, having more than 5.5 years of rich experience in accounts , project coordination and administration in (3.5 years UAE experience) oil and gas projects is currently looking for suitable job. Contact 93953613, Email-allen.mathew83@gmail.com Indian male 25 yrs, Graduate in commerce, overall 5 yrs exp in accounts/ finance field. On visit visa.

Immediately available.

Contact 92836216 / muhammad.tausif623@gmail.com Senior Accounts Executive, B.Com, 05 years experience in India, seeking urgent job in Oman.

Contact 919900077458, +968-98444359, Email:syedtou23@gmail.com.

American Certified Manager (6 sigma, CPPM) with MBA, PMP trained having 10 years, UAE cross functional experience in procurement, projects management, supply chain, facilities & Administration with UAE D/L seeking suitable placement. Contact: 90772927 Email: callshebin@gmail.com Indian male 34 yrs, M.Com – Finance with 5 yrs experience in Accounts in India, presently in visiting visa looking for a suitable placement. Contact: 93671785 Email: jeyan903@gmail.com

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 Accountant 8Years Experience with D/L and NOC. Contact 97712084 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 Accountant Assistant BBA, exp, Tally have 2 yr valid VISA PH : 98269281

ARCHITECT Indian female diploma architect 6 years exp in Oman Engineering consultancy, valid Oman driving license. Contact: 96683293 / 97750870

ADMIN Indian female 27 yrs MBA HR with 3.6 yrs exp in HR / Marketing / Customer relation currently in Muscat on visit visa.

Contact: 97205038 Email: chandpriya89@gmail.com

Tamil Nadu female BE, (ECE) MBA (HR) 25 years, 6 months experience business consult (HR) currently under family visa looking for suitable position. Contact: 99502581 Filipino HRD especialist / material controller supervisor with 18 yrs experience looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact: (+968) 98037142 / (+968) 92659817 Young Omani male have experience 12 years as P.R.O, CLERK Helper Supervisor Admin Supervisor, H.R Manager have 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

CATERING Indian female 25 years MSc food, nutrition and dietetics looking for suitable job as dietitian or food quality Controller or Nutritionalist. Contact: 98924131 / 96737147 Email: swathysatheesh7@gmail.com Filipino Cabin steward / Linen vallet is looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact: +968 91065438 or email: blonglive@gmail.com

DESIGNER/DRAUGHTSMAN Revit, Autocad D/man, expected salary 200 OMR PH :92279784

DESIGNER/DRAUGHTSMAN Indian Female, 3yrs exp. In AutoCAD draftsman with 3ds max & rivet,. Looking for suitable placement in Muscat now in visit visa .Contact:95601266 Architectural Draftsmen diploma in construction technology with 6 years experience in drafting and detailing as per British standard in Oman with valid Omani license looking for suitable opportunity Noc available. Call 94375897.

Filipino Senior Revit/AutoCAD Draftsman with 20 years professional experience is looking for suitable job in Oman. Please Contact: 96489798, (+974) 66653780.

DRIVER Bangladeshi want job with own car. Contact : 93822195 Experience driver looking for job.

Contact: 95113612 Looking for a full time driver with valid Omani license.

Contact 95454033 Light driver available.

Contact: 95501608 Light driver available.

Contact: 91362475 Looking for weekly light driving job, experience 5 years.

Contact: 92640278 Light driver. Contact: 99775728 Looking for driving job experience 5 years, Pakistani.

Contact: 96046242 / 93804176 Light vehicle driver. Contact: 95891087 Light driver with 6 years experience looking for job. Contact 92617293 Light duty driver 2 yrs exp.

Contact: 96393805 Driver Pakistani exp 4 years, looking for job. Contact: 94356465 Driver looking for job, 3 years experience. Contact: 97468646 Bangladeshi driver looking for job.

Contact: 97418036

M O N DAY, M AY 3 0, 2 0 1 6

D5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED ůĞĐƚƌŽŶŝĐƐ ĂŶĚ ŽŵŵƵŶŝĐĂƟ ŽŶ

ENGINEER With 2 years exp in Telecom sector, currently on visit visa, looking for suitable placement.

ŽŶƚĂĐƚ ͗ ϵϯϵϭϵϵϰϯ ĂŐŶĞůũĞƌŝŶΛLJĂŚŽŽ͘ĐŽŵ ^ƵĚĂŶĞƐĞ DĂůĞ ϯϱ LJƌƐ ͘^Đ ůĞĐƚƌŽŶŝĐ ^LJƐƚĞŵ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌŝŶŐ with 11 yrs. Experience in Gov/Private. /^ K ; EWͲZΘ^Ϳ ĂŶĚ ƚŚŝĐĂů ŚĂĐŬŝŶŐ ; , ǀϴͿ ĞƌƟ Į ĞĚ͘ ƐƚƌŽŶŐ ŬŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞ ŽĨ ŶĞƚǁŽƌŬ ĂĚŵŝŶŝƐƚƌĂƟ ŽŶ ĂŶĚ /d services management. ŵĂŝů͗ ŐĂďĂƌŽŬŝϮŬΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ DŽď͗нϵϳϰϱϬϰϳϱϬϯϰ

DRIVER License light heavy duty, PDO license experience 8 years mechanical experience vehicle.

Contact 92091528 Looking for driving job.

Contact: 98219182 Looking for driving job 6 months experience. Contact: 93782260 Looking for driving job with Toyota Camry car, driver available with car or without car.

Contact: 97224035 Looking for driving job.

Contact: 99518533 Bangladeshi male looking for driving job. Contact: 98140379 Light driver looking for job Gulf exp.

Contact: 91929556 Light driver / Salesman fluent in English, Arabic well knowledge of Muscat Areas. Contact: 97950869

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Civil Engineer, B.Tech, 6 yrs experience with Omani driving license, local release available.

Contact: 91693008 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 Project Manager Electrical with 6 years experience with EHV & MV substation projects. NOC available.

Contact 91398559

D E ' Z, CIPD HR With 13 years experience in GCC and Oman. Competent in Sales, DĂƌŬĞƟ ŶŐ͕ ƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ ŽƉĞƌĂƟ ŽŶ ĂŶĚ ĂĚŵŝŶŝƐƚƌĂƟ ŽŶ͘ Interested employer please call

Finance & Marketing 25 yrs having 1.9 years of experience Finance & Marketing Contact: 95206140/ 96992013

97728418

bonnythomas007@gmail.com

Email:

Contact 96960991, Email : sunap1968@gmail.com

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Civil Engineer diploma, 4 yrsexp seeks suitable position ina reputed company. NOC available.

Contact 96789711 Civil Engineer 8 years experience Structural buildings marine.

Available NOC release.

Contact: 92451323.

Email: zubairali134@yahoo.com Indian male Electrical Engineer, having 6 years gulf experience in designing, assembling, commissioning execution etc having valid GCC license too looking for a suitable.

Contact: 00968-98052942 Email: azamjeelani78@gmail.com HSE Engineer (B.E Mech+Diploma Safety+NEBOSH+OSHA) over 10yrs. Exp, (Visa Release Letter (NOC) available), seeking suitable placement, Mob:97061817, Email:jayanammu1977@gmail.com B.Tech Mechanical Engineer having 8 years exp having Oman driving license seeking suitable placement. Contact: 97841963 Civil Engineer fresh Graduate with Omani driving license looking job in any company.

Contact: 91745797 / 99190898 Email: alio_abdo@hotmail.com Electrical Engineer with 8 Years Experience, looking for Job, having driving License and NOC. Ph#91293519 Email:nomee987@gmail.com Diploma in Civil Engineer 3 years experience (Surveyor) 1 year experience building work looking for job. Contact: 94857668 Email: mudassarsh93@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer, B.Tech & M.Sc, 3 yrs experience in Oman having Driving License.

Contact: 91162085 Mechanical Engineer with 2 years experience in Quality Control / Mechanical Engineer has achieved certification in NDT level 2, currently in Oman looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 95632276, Email: jassin.sudhakaran@gmail.com Electrical Engineer with 16 years experience in switchgear / transformer / over head lines & trading, looking for sales / procurement & project planning & Execution with NOC & D/L. Contact: 95994727 Email: qurm340@gmail.com

B.Tech Mechanical Engineer steel fabrication & erection 6 years experience with Oman D/L seeks placement. Contact 97917250

Pakistani male Diploma Civil Engineer 4yrs exp in Oman bulling & mega projects, valid license Oman.Contact:98921022

B.Tech Civil Indian, 4 years experience in Oman with D/L. Contact: 90902809, Email: ackn1234@yahoo.com

Civil Engineer (Indian male) 5 years experience in Oman with valid Omani driving license & NOC looking for suitable opportunity.

Contact: 93101283

Indian Diploma Civil Engg 3 years Indian exp 6 months Oman exp seeking Site Engineer position, local release available.

Contact: 96411950 Indian female on family visa having M. Ttech degree in Biotech seeking suitable placement in any field. Contact: 91287047 Computer Hardware Technician, experienced Indian Male on visit visa seeking for suitable placement as hardware technician and Store Incharge. Contact: 95711667

Diploma in Civil Engineer (11 years Gulf experience +7 years India experience) Building structure & finishing work NOC available. Contact: 90458201 Email: siva6467@yahoo.com Sudanese Civil Engineer 6 years experience in Oman. # 95212902 Mechanical Engineer (B.Tech) Indian male with 1 year experience looking for job, qualification in QA- QC, HVAC & piping engineering. Contact: 90510800 Email: muhammedjaseem07@gmail.com Diploma Civil Engineer (8 years Exp.) with driving license.

Contact 92429006, francisprem123@gmail.com

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

Worked as Electrical & Instrumentation Maintenance Engineer with Global Gypsum Board Co. LLC, Salalah (3 years) having valid Oman driving license looking for a new job urgently. Contact: 93363104

Electrical Engineer Indian male 30 years having 5 years of experience in industrial automation & utility maintenance in India, holding valid Oman D/L. Contact: 92789995 mail: akhilabrahamlktr@gmail.com

B.E Mechanical Engineer, age 33 with 6+ years experience in GCC in MEP building construction field (execution and design of HVAC,firefighting,plumbing), with D/L, NOC available 96978380;prajithks@gmail.com

Diploma Civil 5 years experience in Oman with D/L & NOC. Contact: 93772030

Sr. Sales & Marketing Specialist Indian male, Diploma Engineer with BBA & 16 yrs experience in Oman, worked with MNC in retail (Telecom/ Lubricant sales) and with construction industry handling various products & subcontract projects.

Holding valid Oman D/L, NOC available.

B Tech Electronics and communication,1.5 years experience in India as site engineer in automation system of Reliance, Looking for a suitable job. Currently in India, Contact:-95657292

Indian B.E Civil Engineer 1 year Indian 5 months Oman experience seeking Site Engineer position, local release available.

Contact: 96411591

Indian male MBA

Electrical & Electronics Engr, knows autocad & revit.

PH: 93837973

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 92835952. E-mail: 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 Indian male, Mechanical Engineer having 1year experience, on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact:97416564, Email:jovinmathias@gmail.com Civil Engineer 8 years experience in Oman as a project engineer for governmental & private projects.

Contact – 90164912 Young Indian, Engineering in Bio-technology, Bio-chemical and Chemical, looking for a challenging placement in Oman.

Contact 97607000. Email: sivasankarjayakumar@gmail.com Diploma Engineering Instrumentation Technician, 2 years experience skills calibration & installation etc.

Contact: 98963344 / 96946408 Email: anfeeranfu4@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 Construction Machinery repairs Engineer, 5 years, driving license, Contact - 94001961 B.Sc Civil Engineer, MBA experience 5 years (15 months in Oman) English & Arabic, driving license looking for a suitable job.

Contact: 94162443 Indian male BE Mechanical with 11 years experience in Automotive engineering and Industrial maintenance in Oman. With valid driving license seeks suitable job.

On release in Oman. 92880593 Indian 24 yrs exp SR civil Engg with NOC, searching suitable job, in any project Supervision.

Contact: 96602718 mishteyaqh@yahoo.co.in Telecommunication Engineer resident in the Sultanate, Sudanese Nationality. Contact : 95000024 Site Supervisor, Diploma in Civil Engg (cert attested) knows autocad revit, salary exp: 250 Ph : 92279784 Indian male, Structural Engineer looking for job in structural design field. Having 6 years of experience in design field. Residing in Muscat.

Contact: 91176187 syam036@gmail.com Automobile Mechanic ITI 3 years experience marine mechanical fitter 2 yrs experience.

Contact: 93674847 Indian 14 yrs exp SR MEP – Elect Engg with NOC, searching suitable job, in field PMC, Fire consultants , Testing & com, project supervision.

Contact: 92437865 Email: maimran.mtech@live.com Indian male B-tech 8 years experience as senior electrical project engineer / QC engineer on visit visa seeks suitable placement.

Contact 94094543 Email: anwar425@gmail.com

EDUCATION/TRAINING Female B. Ed English teacher, 7 yrs exp seeking suitable placement. Contact : 99739415 / 92091528 Teacher available accounts business and economics near MQ by Indian lady Teacher.

Contact: 91254950

EDUCATION/TRAINING Indian female Mathematics Lecturer. M Sc Mathematics from a Prestigious University. B.Ed qualified, distinction holder.

7 Yrs experience with last 5 years as Assistant Professor Mathematics in Engineering College.

Contact: 91360147.

IT IT Solution Architect,Indian female post graduate with 12 years of IT experience. Looking for position of IT Solution Architect/Consultant/Project Manager, Valid driving license. Contact 96563962 Indian male 4 years experience in IT as Programmer / Web Support / CCNA/ Network on visit visa seeking placement. Contact: 93069694 Email: mrabrar14@gmail.com Software Developer having two years of experience in PHP Web development & Microsoft CRM & adx Portal experience looking for a developer position in reputed Software house or IT Dept bilal.

Contact: 95596711 / 92762313 IT Support Engineer, Exp 3 years in Oman 2 years in India.

Contact: 94672759 System IT Engineer with Linux & UNIX System Administration skills transferable visa. Contact: 99109332 Omani 26(m) seeks placement 6 yrs experience IT specialist.

Contact: 99025044 Indian female M.Sc Computer Science seeking suitable placement in Muscat area.

Contact: 98660672 Indian female M.Sc Biotechnology, 3 years experience seeking for suitable position, part / full flexible for research, teaching business development IT hospitals. Contact 94710931 Email: skystars.hm@gmail.com

Ŷ ĞdžƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞĚ ŚĂƌƚĞƌĞĚ ĐĐŽƵŶƚĂŶƚ With over 25 years in varied industries, presently working with a reputed group in Muscat, looking out for a suitable change.

ŽŶƚĂĐƚ Ͳ ϵϲϰϵϭϬϯϬ

MISCELLANEOUS Indian Female, 25 Years - MSc Biotechnology, 1yr exp. in Microbiology, Looking for suitable job.

Mobile: 92619048, Email: anusreeg1991@gmail.com

SKILLED LABOR

Staff Nurse seeking job for nurse with 2 years experience in India with visit visa, passed with 51% Oman prometric. Contact: 91451935 D- Pharm Pharmacist 17 years experience Ayurvedic Panchakarma Masseur’s 3 years experience.

Contact: 93672452 Indian female Dentist specialized Endodontist looking for suitable placement, prometric completed.

Contact: 96410448

MANAGER Indian male Graduate 10 years experience in Oman seeks mid management position with trading / automobile organization.

Contact: 92133277 Email: bijuma73@yahoo.com Operations Manager – Interior designing, Indian male, 20 years experience in Interior Decoration, Joinery, Gypsum Works, MEP Works, BOQ preparation, costing, looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 97608867 Purchase Head Indian 20 years experience in MNC Civil, MEP, FIRE, Oil& Gas, PDO Omani driving license NOC available.

Contact: 93737496

SECRETARIAL & OFFICE Lady Secretary / Sales Co-coordinator 12 years experience in Oman in reputed companies, seek immediate Employment.

Call: 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

MISCELLANEOUS

SALES / MARKETING

Nithin Issac (Indian male) bachelor degree & MSW Medical & Psychiatry Hospital experience for 4 years in public relations and one year experience as Psychiatric Social Worker.

Contact 98937662 / 90188131 Email: nithsknur@gmail.com

Indian male good experience in Sales, Marketing, Admin & Accounts looking for suitable job.

Contact: 96199690

Indian male, 16 years experience in Telecom vas industry on different Vas products, services & Enterprise solutions, looking for managerial position in relevant field, visit visa on hand for three months. Contact: 99744870 / 0091-9959171939, Email: tsbabu@airhub.com BS in Electrical Engineering, Experience: 5 years(Power Plants).

Contact: 92475206 Email: zahaibzafar007@gmail.com Cricket : 23 years, fast bowler (LAF) Played OCC premier league, U-19, Faisalabad region, Patron trophy seeks suitable placement. Qualification : Intermediate experience in Stores. NOC in hand. Contact: M: 91241615 Pak : 03416102803 Procurement Coordinator Indian male 30 yrs B.Com (Computers) 4 years experience in Saudi Arabia Construction Company looking for any suitable position on visit visa till 18 June 2016.

Contact: 0968 98590811 Email: ibrahimhashmi220@gmail.com 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. # 92066 523

Pakistani male MBA 6 years experience, electrical & building material in Oman seeking for placement.

Contact : 968 96789513

MEDICAL

Indian Male, MCA Graduate, 15 yrs exp in ERP, CSM Certified, seeking suitable role.NOC Available.

Contact : GSM : 90189284 Email: meetlibran@gmail.com

Indian B.Tech 37 years Project Engineer , 12 + years experience in construction, maintenance of STP, Pumping stations, sewer lines, drinking water distribution and service reservoirs & pipe lines. Contact: 99364007 / +91-887422635 Email: mdzubair01@gmail.com

SALES / MARKETING

Digital Marketer: MCA, 2.6 yrs. Exp: SEM/SMM/PPC/SEO/SMO looking for suitable positions. Contact, Email: abeyve@gmail.com.

Contact 93594114 Indian Male, MBA marketing 5 yrs exp. in sales & 4 yrs in FMCG sector, looking for best opportunity.

NOC available. Contact: 96001877 Indian male 24 years B.com 2 years of experience in Sales & Office Admin knowledge of Tally ERP 9 & MS Office. Contact: 98613373 / 97359814, Email: syedismailnoor@gmail.com 35 years male, Lebanese holding British passport, 10 years of experience in procurement, Omani Government tenders, setup marketing plans & strategies, importing, Organizing events, management, have car, NOC available.

Contact 94123939 Email: 002015r@gmail.com 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.

Contact: India:-+918907212253 Akhil:-93626288, Email: Sumeshpsmkr1989@gmail.com Indian male Graduate with 18 years of Marketing experience presently in Oman on family visit visa, looking for best opportunity.

Contact: 96168687 Email: dhibupaul@gmail.com Indian male 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

STP operator 20 yrs experience.

Contact: 93550661 Email: feroz1391@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS IT professional, B.E. in IT, CCNA, MCSA, MCSE, 3yrs exp. in IT, valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/Server support/Retail sales. Contact 91496939 Indian Male, Post graduate with 10yrs experience in gulf & 4.6yrs in Oil & Gas experience with SAP and ERP exposure. Finalisation, MIS, Auditing, Budgeting, AP &AR, Tax, etc., with Oman D/L seeking suitable placement. NOC available.

Contact: 91743376 Indian male, 25 yrs, more than 5 years experience in Dubai, Looking for a suitable placement for jobs related to sales, marketing, coordination and support.

Contact: 95140445, syedfaraz97681@gmail.com Indian female, B.Tech Computer Science, 5 years experience in teaching in India currently on visit visa seeking for a suitable position in teaching, IT or administration.

E mail: rincy87@gmail.com Indian Male 47 years MBAOperations Management with total 25 Yrs exp inclusive of 9 yrs in Oil & Gas sector in Oman, having valid Omani D/L & NOC available , seeks challenging position in SCM/ Logistics/ Procurement in any Sector.

GSM-94236414.

Mail id – jayamurli@gmail.com Accountant male Indian, 2 years experience, doing accounts in tally & excel seeks suitable job.

EMAIL – regin1690@gmail.com, Contact +91 7373387282 Filipino I.T. with 5 years experience looking for suitable job in Oman.

Contact: +968 91183514 or email delarama_ryan_t@yahoo.c om B.E (Mechanical) 12 years industrial sales, 1 year Muscat experience, presently in India , immediately ready to join. Contact :917338899372 , email id : ganesh2008sep@gmail.com Indian female B.Com, 1 year experience in Oman, experience in wings account package and knowledge of tally. Looking for Accounting job. Presently in Family visa.

Contact: 93491124 & 92054531 Indian male, M.Com, 7 years Oman experience in the field of accounts and valid oman driving license & NOC. Good knowledge in SAP, Tally, Oracle, MS office and Excel seeks suitable placement.

Contact 92859733 ACCA affiliate, B.Sc Degree holder, 3 years experience in audit and finance at Big 6, Male, Looking for suitable placement. NOC release available. Contact:95140445, a.saran891@gmail.com Indian Male, 23, BBA graduate with approx. 2 years experience in India and UAE is looking for job in sales / marketing.

Contact: 94032041; Mail: azzamsiddique1@gmail.com Indian male electrician(EEE ).

Two years good working experience searching for suitable job.

Gmail ; antonyajin15@gmail. com. Antony Ajin.G, Contact: 91 8148336160 / 91 8300136160 Indian Male, 23, BBA graduate, fresher, looking for a job in sales (indoor). No driving license.

Contact: 94032041 Mail: azzamsiddique1@gmail.com Male Indian, 8 years of experience doing desktop engineer, software implementation, system admin, searching for suitable job. Email: thiruvazhimarban.ciet@gmail. com, mobile: +919171447997 / +919894357260

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M O N DAY, M AY 3 0, 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 MISCELLANEOUS Indian male 33 years, B.Com, having 6 years experience in Oman.

Tally & ERP looking for suitable placement. Mobile no :98492921 Looking for a part time accounting job, additional experience in admin & store - purchase. #99196621 Indian male with 5 year Oman Sales Experience with valid Oman D/L, looking for suitable position. Mobile:97221624, Email:saileshpkhanna@gmail.com B.E. (Mechanical) 12years industrial sales one year Muscat experience, Presently in India, Immediately ready to join.

Contact :917338899372 , email id : ganesh2008sep@gmail.com Male, Indian, 25, 5 years experience in Dubai; looking for permanent placement in Oman for jobs related to sales, coordination and marketing. Contact: +971563664701 syed97681@gmail.com Male, 23, with experience in UAE & India, looking for job in sales / marketing. Contact: 94032041 Sr. Accountant, WITH Oman D/L & 8.5 yrs exp, 7.5 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 Procurement/Tender & Contract Procurement /logistics & freight Specialist /Oil Field / petrochemical/Engineer /MBA /SAP certify / 15yrs Rich Experience/ Import &export Specialist / Oil Field experience/ coordinator / World Wide supplier network /Noc available Looking for challenging Position Contact: 97813849, Email Id:vved76@gmail.com Male, 23, with experience in UAE & India, looking for job in sales / marketing. Contact: 94032041 Indian Male Accountant. Completed MBA with 1 year experience, good working knowledge in Tally & Excel. Searching for suitable job. Email : jovin8910@gmail. com, Contact : 919715874548 , 918015907437 Indian male electrician(EEE ).

Two years good working experience searching for suitable job.

Gmail antonyajin15@gmail. com, : Contact; 918148336160 / 918300136160 Electrical & Electronics diploma Engineer Indian male 23 years, 2 years experience in Electrical field/good experience in Electronics MCU projects currently in visit visa please do not hesitate to Contact; 93047707 Email: adilm89@gmail.com Indian male 30 yrs, holding valid driving license, having 5 years of experience in sales, looking for suitable position.

Contact # 90552942/94355626 Indian male Diploma in Electronics, having 3 years of experience in the hardware and networking field, also worked in construction company Mabela for 6 months as supervisor, trying to get driving license. Contact: - +96897017866.

Business Management Graduate with 12 years of experience in Oman, Worked with catering, medical, IT groups seeks suitable placement in Finance/purchase/ insurance sector, NOC Available.

Email, saima.gangawali@gmail. com, Mob 94258301

Mechanical Engineer, Indian, Male,5 years experience in GCC & India, looking for permanent placement in Oman. NOC Release Available. Contact: 00968-95140445; noorullahanas@gmail.com Indian female (27 yrs) MBA(IT), BCA,CCNA.2year experience in IT operations in Oman. Graduated from Oman with good analytical, communicating & programming skills, presented in international conference, seeking suitable positions. contact:93672143.e-mail id:fathima. shoukath@gmail.com Part- Time Accountant, well experienced senior accountant ,capable of doing all type of accounting works up to finalization, Budgeting, Bank financing requirements, taxation work etc available.

Contact : : 98803439 BS in Electrical engineering, experience : 6 years in electrical installation and maintenance Contact : 99817032, Email : engmmg24@yahoo.com Indian male, M. Com with 3 yr Oman Exp in Accounts with valid NOC & D/L on Visit Visa, available to join immediately . GSM :94744575 Indian Female seeking a job in Back Office and Accountancy, 8+ years proven experience as a dynamic candidate with excellent Excel & Communication skills.

Quick learner and Team player.

Currently on Family Visa.

Contact 94093154, 91746890, Email: joyjohn_hhh@yahoo.com Sri Lankan Male, 31 years. 6 years experience as an Accounts Executive, (Languages can speak Urdu/ Arabic, English written & spoken) .

Contacts: 99782930/ lalindra1st@yahoo.com HSE Engineer, Indian male, 5.5 Plus years experience in Oil & Gas. Working in Shclumberger.NEBOSH, IOSH, & NDT Certified, M Tech in HSE. CONTACT-krish.569@gmail. com Mobile- +91 9867016808 Sri Lankan Male, 31 years. 6 years experience as an Accounts Executive, (Languages can speak Urdu/ Arabic, English written & spoken).

Contact 99782930/ lalindra1st@yahoo.com Indian male with 10+ years of working experience (security solutions, event management) on visit visa seeks suitable placement.

Contact 97945269, hkkrishna@gmail.com Indian male Network Cabling Technician (19-years gulf experience) seeking for suitable placement. mobile no: 0091-8089909265 (India), email: mohithavp@gmail.com Senior accountant ,NOC available, more than 5 years exp., born & bought up in Oman, Accounting upto finalization, computer skills tally9, Sage ERP accpac 500(6.0A), Vcams , Audit ,valid Oman D/L, languages known English ,Arabic, Hindi. can join immediately. Tel: 96339599, mailahmedmohdkhan@gmail.com Petrochemicals Specialist, Chemical, MBA 18 YEARS EXPERIENC IN OIL FIELDS COM, RAW MATERIAL , polymer, SPACIALISED IN Procurement /COMMECIAL/ PURCHASE / LOGISTICS / SCM/Planning & sound knowledge of technical requirement for any manufacture plant Forecasting, Distribution, Vendors Development, LC opening/ establishment coordination with NOC available.

Contact:97813849

Indian Male, 24 yrs, looking for any type of job, qualification is Diploma in Electronics with 3 years of experience in the hardware an networking field an also worked in construction company Mabelah for 6 months as supervisor, having valid D/L. Contact : - +96897017866.

33 year old Filipina with experience in Tele performance, Manila call centre, now working as Waitress in Qatar seeking suitable post.

Local contact 99022484 Indian Male 28 years, Mechanical Engineer (Diploma) with 2 years’ exp., Automobile ITI NCVT, CSWIP-BGAS Painting QC Grade-2, NDT Level-2, ISO Lead Auditor QA (IRCA), Piping QC & Isometric Drawings, WPS & WPQR, available on Visit Visa, seeks suitable job.

Contact: 90653733, libinthomaslt@gmail.com SCM / LOGISTICS/ PROCUREMENT - 25 Yrs exp - Indian Male - Oil & Gas, Manufacturing Sector - Having valid Oman D/L & NOC available. Seeks Challenging senior position. GSM-94236414, Email ID - jayamurli@gmail.com Light Duty Driver, Fluent in English, Arabic. Well knowledge of Oman Areas looking for suitable placement. Contact 97950869 IT Administrator with 6 yrs of GCC experience, now in Dubai (visit visa).seeking suitable placement in UAE. Contact :00971-565598176, email:aneeshngr@gmail.com Indian Male: 23yrs, MBA in Marketing from UK (United Kingdom), looking for a job, currently in Muscat in visit. No: 97210361 / 95357513, Email: sharanshetty3@gmail.com Highly experienced mechanical/ steel structural fabrication engineer looking for suitable placement. NOC available.

Contact 99860714, hussain20173@gmail.com.

Architect Engineer seeking for suitable job, 8 years experience.

GSM : 96075000, Email : haytham_201046@yahoo.com B.E(Mechanical) 12years industrial sales one year Muscat experience ,Presently in India ,Immediately ready to join ,Mobile no :917338899372 , email id : ganesh2008sep@gmail.com Electrical & Electronics diploma engineer Indian male 22 years, 2 years experience currently in visit visa. Contact 93047707 adilm89@gmail.com Planning Engineer, BE Mech Engg.

Indian Female having total 11 yrs exp in oil & gas projects (8+ yrs in Gulf) with valid Oman D/L, Seeks a Suitable job. Contact: 92456003 Indian Male 48 Yrs with over 25 Years Oman experience in Sales & Marketing with NOC & valid Oman D/L Also Fluency in Arabic, seeks suitable placement. Contact no.: 92210661/99224057 B.S.C in Electrical Engineering, Experience: 5 Years (Power Plant).

Contact: 92475206 Email: zahaibzafar007@gmail.com Fresh B.Com Graduate in visit visa looking for a job. Contact: 93518923 / 99075027. email: sheikcok@yahoo.com Indian male,B.Com + Dip. Logistic 2year experience looking for a job in Accounts/Logistics Field. Presently on Visit Visa # 93884951, Email:mehreenraiz@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTED Admin Assistant. Having 5 years experience in admin department in reputed companies, presently working in Muscat (NOC Available).

GSM. 00968-98404122, mail panduru.jeevankumar@gmail.com Looking for a part time accounting & admin job. Contact 99196621.

Indian male, 24 yrs, B. Com Graduate more than 1 year experienced in accounts planning to come for a family visit in oman seeking for a suitable placement .#99339544 / 99743709 Indian male, 40 Years, B. Com, having 10 years experience in Oman, Tally & ERP- looking for suitable placement ( NOC and Oman driving license available) Tel- +91 89 43 109897 Rajeev. 252002@gmail.com Import & Export professional, Experienced as Asst. Commercial Manager for 15 years, Proficient in MS office, Male Indian, Seeks suitable placement, on Visit, Contact 95484684 Indian male, 33 yrs, MBA-HR generalist with 10 yrs including training of Omani nationals.NOC possible .Seeking a suitable job.

Contact :saiprasad_18@yahoo.com, 94179499 Indian male, 40 Years, B. Com, having 10 years experience in Oman, Tally & ERP- looking for suitable placement ( NOC and Oman driving license available.

Contact +91 89 43 109897 Rajeev. 252002@gmail.com Safety officer, 3 years of experience in safety certifications: BE (electrical and electronics engineering), NEBOSH, IOSH, DHSE, first aid. Contact +97474018995, mail:midhunmich@gmail.com, skype:midhunmike Indian male, network cabling technician (19 years Gulf experience) seeking for suitable placement. NOC available. Contact : 0091-8089909265 (India), E mail: mohithavp@gmail.com Electronics Technician , 4 Years experience as Electronics service engineer. Knowledge in all type of Electronics items. Looking for suitable placement. GSM- 99105043

IT professional, B.E. in IT, CCNA, MCSA, MCSE, 3yrs exp. in IT, valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/Server support/Retail sales. # 91496939.

Assistant Accountant - B.Com Graduate with excellent overall skills. 2 Years of experience. Ready for immediate joining.

Contact: sharonravi00@gmail.com, 968-92049215 Software Engineer with 5 + plus years of experience in Infosys ltd on visit visa seeking suitable vacancy in oman. Email : steffyraphel@gmail.com mob: 96896246205 / 96897032284 Indian male 26 years, Graduate in BBM & having Diploma in Logistics with 3 years of experience in Banking and Accounts looking for suitable placement. Contact : + 968 97166820/ +91 9895102356 Email :afsalrahman1989@gmail.com Indian Female looking for a part time opportunity (Graphic Design/ Teaching/Research Assistant/ Business Development/Administration) Contact: 95811820 or sankarikm06@gmail.com SENIOR ACCOUNTANT-M. Com Finance-Indian with 7 years experience in Finance & Accounts up to finalization. Having D/L & NOC. Mob:94122464, caammk13@gmail.com Tea boy looking for job Name: Man Bahadar Contact: 97859837 Indian Female, M.Sc Computer Science, Seeking suitable placement in Muscat Area. #98660672 Indian Female, 29 Yrs Age, M.Sc Microbiology, looking for Job any reputed organization / Hospitals, seeks suitable position.

Contact : 95218424 / 9610 6604.

On Family Residence Visa.

Indian female 10 years exp as cook in Oman. South Indian & Gujarati special looking for job,company or restaurant. Contact 90559292 Indian Male B-Com Graduate 1 year, experience in market survey, Valid Driving License, looking for any suitable post.

Contact: 92567020 / 96930392

Indian Male 30 year GCC driving license and past experience as project coordinator looking for a suitable position. Project Coordination, Sales Executive, Marketing Executive or any other suitable post. Contact number -97070427 IT professional, B.E. in IT, CCNA, MCSA, MCSE, 3yrs exp. in IT, valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/Server support/Retail sales.

Contact 91496939.

Indian B-Com Graduate 1 year Experience in market survey, Valid Driving License, looking for any suitable post.

Contact :92567020 / 96930392, shwayanad@gmail.com Indian male, M. Com, 11 years experience in the field of accountancy and Stores. Good knowledge in SAP, Tally, oracle, MS office and Excel seeks suitable placement.

Contact 92859733 Indian male, M.Com, 7 years Oman experience in the field of accounts and valid oman driving license & NOC . Good knowledge in SAP, Tally, oracle, MS office and Excel seeks suitable placement. # 92859733 Indian male 42, BE-Civil 13 years experience in Road construction. looking for suitable placement. having valid Oman driving license.

Contact: 95225214, Email: Sudheerrokkala73@gmail.com Bachelor in Hotel Management Having 13 years experience in Catering Industry in all aspects of Operations with D/L looking out for a suitable placement.

Contact 90654826 Email: mailingsaikiran@gmail.com Indian Female on a visit visa having master degree seeking suitable placement in any field, 1 ,5 year experience in HR .Contact 91467576.

Indian female 27 yrs, Diploma in Aviation & Hospitality management, seeking suitable placement.

Curnetly in Oman, NOC Available.

Contact 94880684 Female Dentist with MOH license and NOC, 7 years experience 2 yrs out of them in Oman looking for a job. Contact 97401243

M O N DAY, M AY 3 0, 2 0 1 6

D7

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

TOURS

TOURS

Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours contact 98029602, 92808636 We arrange tours & accommodation at all the beautiful places in Oman. Contact 99839898

DRIVING TRANSPORTATION

RENT A CAR

Transportation available Ruwi to Al Khuwair, Ghubra & Azaiba.

Contact: 91103909 Transportation. Contact: 96538078 Transportation. Contact:94510847 Transportation. Contact 9508282

SIT.WANTED

Transportation. Contact 92015894

Indian with 3 years for experience in sales and marketing fluency in English, Arabic, Hindi, Tamil and Malayalam looking for suitable job.

Also hold valid Driving License, currently in oman Mob : 93451439

Transportation required from Qurum to WadiKabir at afternoon only 1 PM. Contact - 99012165

Indian male network cabling technician (19-years Gulf experience) seeking for suitable placement.

Contact 0091-8089909265 (India), Email: mohithavp@gmail.com

Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis, massage, steambath, obesity, Spondylitis, Ideal Care Ayurvedic Clinic, 18 November Street, Azaiba.

Contact: 99639695 / 97397320

Safety Officer 3 years of experience in safety certifications: BE (Electrical and Electronics Engineering),NEBOSH, OSH, DHSE, first aid. Contact +97474018995, email:midhunmich@gmail.com skype:midhunmike 27 years old Indian male looking hospitality jobs in Hotel. Experience in customer service, front desk, housekeeping supervisor, captain, cashier,guest relation manager. Contact. +968-90351742 Email. samubaid6@gmail.com

GOOD NEWS

Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam).

Contact:24475280 / 95371664 / 92504980 www.siddhayur.com FREE INFORMATION ABOUT ISLAM. If you would like to know more about Islam, please call: 99425598, 99250777, 99353988, 99253818, 99341395, and 99379133. For ladies: 99415818, 99321360, 99730723 Orvisit:www.islamfact.com

25 - 50 seater bus with PDO & BP specification for monthly rent & small car with driver. Contact 99839898

AVAILABLE 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

RENT A CAR Best Rates for Saloon Contact: 97869042 / 95730550 sales@modernreem.com

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M O N DAY, M AY 3 0, 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 COMPUTER/WEB./ EDUCATION/CLASSES

Spoken Arabic class for Non Arabic Speakers & English class for Malayalam Speakers

in Azaiba and Ruwi earn in two months

tion guaranteed

Tel: 95244310

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

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

WĞƐƚ ĐŽŶƚƌŽů Θ ƵŝůĚŝŶŐ ĐůĞĂŶŝŶŐ Ăůů ŬŝŶĚƐ ŽĨ ƉĞƐƚ ĐŽŶƚƌŽů ďƵŝůĚŝŶŐ͘ ůĞĂŶŝŶŐ Ɵ ůĞƐ ͬ DĂƌďůĞ ƉŽůŝƐŚŝŶŐ ŵŽŶƚŚůLJͬ YĞĂƌůLJ ĐŽŶƚƌĂĐƚƐ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ͘ ŽŶƚĂĐƚ͗ ϵϴϴϭϰϳϯϯ ͬϵϴϴϭϰϳϰ0 ů ,ƵƐŶ ůĞĂŶŝŶŐ >͘>͘ 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 Marble crystallization & grinding, cleaning & carpet shampooing.

Ocean center LLC. # 99344723

Window & split unit A.C servicing & repairing. Contact: 99557080

GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998

Split unit A/C & window unit A.C servicing & maintenance. Contact: 96236476

House shifting & transporting.

Contact 92490422

Split unit & window unit A.C servicing & maintenance. Contact: 93769089 / 95323517

Split & window A/C servicing, repairing, installation ducted, package etc. Contact Abbas : 98667326

CAD drawings Archi/ MEP CAD – comply BIM. Contact: 91233975

A/C servicing maintenance.

Contact: 92279370

A/C Maintenance & Servicing, Fridge, Washing machine & Dish washer repairing, Painting & Cleaning services, Electrical & plumbing.

Contact 99447257 / 97014234 / 24504281 Regular container transportation from Sohar sport to anywhere in Muscat area OMR 100 per container. Contact: 93731363 Marble crystallization & grinding, Ocean center LLC Contact: 99344723

MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. Contact 24793614/ 99314807 Pest control treatments, Ocean center LLC Contact 99344723 House shifting. Contact 99708138 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS99320217 /24788722

Cleaning services, Sofa, carpet, shampoo old house or new house.

Contact: 92179395 Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722 Al farzdaq Al Fedi Trad and Cont Maintenance services electric, plumbing and A/C. Contact: 96524904 /94285064 House Shifting Packing.

Contact: 99657644 / 98518013

SERVICES tĞ WƌŽǀŝĚĞ ůĞĂŶĞƌƐ͕ Kĸ ĐĞ ďŽLJƐ͕ ůĞĂŶŝŶŐ ŽŶƚƌĂĐƚƐ͕ 'ĞŶĞƌĂů ĐůĞĂŶŝŶŐ ĞƚĐ͘ ů DƵĚĂŬŚŝƌ EĂƟ ŽŶĂů Ɛƚ͘ >> ŽŶƚĂĐƚ ͗ ϵϰϮϳϳϬϮϬ

MANPOWER