Times of Oman - May 31, 2015

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SUNDAY, May 31, 2015 / 12 Sha’aban 1436 AH

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Mother’s heartache for her missing son Saud worked with the Qatar Coast Guard and went missing near the shores of Ras Lafan in Doha in December last year Omani citizen Saud Al Balushi.

FAHAD AL GHADANI Fahadnews@timesofoman.com

MUSCAT: A distraught mother is still searching for her 24-year-old son who went missing in a boat accident in Qatar last December.

“It has been five months since my son has gone missing and I still have no news of his whereabouts. I have not stopped weeping for one moment since that incident,” says the mother of Saud Al Balushi.

Urging the authorities to put in more efforts to find her son, she

reminded them that “his two little children are waiting for him.”

Saud used to work with the Qatar Coast Guard and went missing near the shores of Ras Lafan in Doha in December last year.

“We are still waiting to hear about him,” said Yousif Al Balushi, a Majlis Al Shura member representing Shinas and a relative of Saud.

Joint probe “A joint investigation team of the Sultanate and Qatar authorities was supposed to be formed but I

I think this is connected to that case, and he was kidnapped so that he could be silenced,” alleged Saud’s mother.

Another relative of Saud, who refused to be identified, believes the truth about Saud’s disappearance must come out.

“I cannot believe that Saud drowned because he was a good swimmer. I think someone took revenge against Saud for foiling drug smuggling attempts,” said the relative.

The relative hoped that the case should be solved at least for his children’s sake. “There are two children who do not know if their father will ever return,” he added.

Yousif Al Balushi had a meeting with Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, Qatar’s minister of state for interior affairs, earlier this year, who assured him that the Qatari government would spare no effort to search for Saud.

Saud was honoured many times by the Qatari Coast Guard for his commitment and dedication to his work, according to the Yousif Al Balushi.

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Oman condemns Saudi blast MUSCAT: The Sultanate has condemned the blast targeting Al Anoud Mosque in Dammam in Saudi Arabia on Friday, which resulted in a number of deaths.

In a statement, the Foreign Ministry has condemned the terrorist attack at Al Noud Mosque

in the city of Dammam leading to the death of a number of people.

The Sultanate reaffirms its commitment to condemn terrorism in all forms and its full support to Saudi Arabia in confronting such crimes against innocent people and humanity. —ONA

Tourism sector to see more visitors, jobs

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C A PAC I T Y E X PA N S I O N

TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

OMAN

Strict labour laws will hurt Omani economy

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It is important to realise that Oman cannot progress economically without the contribution of expatriates for a good number of years to come and strict labour laws will only serve to limit the development of the country. >A2

OMAN

MARKET

BankDhofar assures accounts not hacked

Sohar Port shipping links with South Asia

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A new container ship called Messini started its new service to Sohar Port, with the inaugural vessel reaching here on Friday. >B1

BankDhofar reassures customers saying its systems have not been hacked. But ATM withdrawal was limited temporarily. >A6

do not know what happened to the plans,” said Yousif.

“Saud and his friend were on a mission after the Qatari coast guard received news of the existence of an unidentified object in the sea. The two officers went to investigate and reported back that it was a ship,” said Al Balushi.

Saud and his partner checked the ship and found nothing illegal onboard. They then reportedly sailed back to the coast guard point, he added.

“Soon the control room received a message that the boat with two officers was sinking and they needed help. A rescue team was sent to the spot and reached in ten minutes but located only Saud’s partner who had reached the shore, according to investigations. When asked about Saud, his partner replied that he had no idea because the boat had started to sink,” said Al Balushi.

His mother revealed that all her son’s belongings were found in the sea but he has not been traced.

“He was supposed to provide a witness in the court a week after he had arrested some smugglers.

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OMR150m boost to Muscat power sector A. E. JAMES businesseditor@timesofoman.com

MUSCAT: A whopping OMR150 million investment has been planned by the Muscat Electricity Distribution Company (MEDC) for the next three years, until 2017, a top-level official of state-owned utility told the Times of Oman.

The company will invest OMR50 million per year as part of an ambitious investment plan from 2015 to 2017 to support a growing grid load and to reach out to more customers, Abdullah Al Badri, chief executive officer of the

Abdullah Al Badri, CEO of the MEDC. – Jun Estrada

MEDC told the Times of Oman in an interview, on the sidelines of an annual gathering of MEDC’s stakeholders.

“We are targeting around OMR50 million per annum for the coming three years for expanding our network and enhancing capacity of our transmission system,” he added.

The additional investments are required for enhancing the distribution network to meet the power demand from additional customers in newly developed residential areas and to meet the increasing demand due to higher

intensity of consumption. Al Badri said the MEDC has a customer base of 260,000 and the number of customers is growing by 8 to 10 per cent per annum.

“Growth in demand for power is also more or less the same.”

Oman’s average annual growth in power demand for the next seven years within the areas of the main inter-connected system is projected at 10 per cent, from 2,592 megawatt in 2013 to 5,023 megawatt in 2020, according to a sevenyear outlook for power demand released by Oman Power and Water Procurement Company. >A6

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SU N DAY, MAY 3 1, 2015

OMAN C O M M E N TA RY

Strict labour laws will hurt country’s economy SUNDAY BEAT SALEH AL SHAIBANY HAVE YOUR SAY AT TWITTER.COM/ TIMESOFOMAN OR SCAN THE CODE TO INSTANTLY POST YOUR THOUGHTS.

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t is important to realise that Oman cannot progress economically without the contribution of expatriates for a good number of years to come and strict labour laws will only serve to limit the development of the country.

Tighter control of labour laws should not always be directed at expatriates. It would discourage the much needed talents and skills from abroad. The Sultanate has been propelled from an economically backward country to a modern nation in just 45 years. Much of this success has been contributed by the hard work of hundreds of thousands of expatriates who left their countries to build Oman.

Those who think that the job is done need to think about the tasks ahead. As the wheel of development keeps rolling forward, the labour force will need to expand and Oman simply does not have enough home-grown talent and expertise to keep it rolling.

Moreover, Omanis do not reproduce fast enough to keep up with the business growth.

Oman is the second largest

country in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) with the population of only 2.3 million.

More than 60 per cent of the country is not developed.

Plans are already in the execution stage to develop areas never touched by progress in the last 45 years. With OMR25 billion earmarked for the development projects from 2015 to 2020, some of this budget would be used to employ tens of thousands of workers for various positions. Oman cannot produce enough nationals to fill up all these jobs. The labour demand is just too big for a country that is planning to rely on graduates to take all the new positions. Besides, since all new projects on the anvil will have to go through a long phase of construction, most of the graduates will not work in the sun or in the open areas where the degree of comfort is severely limited.

Like in any other new hightech projects such as in the engineering, financial or automation, these jobs require years of experience that our graduates do not possess. There have been instances in the past when government ministries Omanised too fast by replacing expatriates too soon only to see the deterioration of quality in various services.

You cannot blame the private sector for trying to hang on to its expatriate workforce.

They appreciate the importance of nationalisation of jobs but not when it comes to forfeit value to customers. This does not mean that Omanis do not already contribute quality services. However, Oman is still in the economic trajectory and much is needed to be done.

With thousands of graduates offering their services, their newly acquired knowledge is not enough. They need

guidance and training in new areas that can only be passed on to them from experienced expatriate workers.

For example, Oman is ranked among the best in the world in health services and communications. But such excellent achievements would not have been possible without huge contributions from the expatriates. It does not matter who is playing a pivotal role and who offers guidance in the right direction. Oman must see it as an important partnership of excellence that has no expiration date between nationals and expatriates.

Hence, various proposed restrictions imposed by the Ministry of Manpower on expatriate recruitment must be reconsidered.

Those laws which are already in force need to be looked at in a different light.

Some expatriates, because of stifling existing regulations and uncertainty over their future, feel like they are part of a bad bargain with the chop coming down on them.

We must understand that an expatriate is part of the vision to sustain progress for a better tomorrow. Many Omanis take for granted a tailor at the end of the street or an electrician who turns up at the door when there is a power outage.

Similarly, college teachers or doctors who fill the void when Omanis cannot plug in because they are not enough in number.

It would help if we see expatriates as part of the local society and not just workers. To this end, Oman is not unique.

All it is required to do is accepting a simple fact — that the country needs to create a complete harmony among its workers, both Omanis and expatriates.

S U N DAY, MAY 31 , 2 0 1 5

4.4%

OMAN

is the increase in the number citizens who receive more than OMR2,000 salary

Oman, Iran shipping service is operational SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY SEE

Iran and Oman agreed to establish

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a direct shipping

STAFF REPORTER

line to enhance

Muscat: First ship operating under the direct shipping line agreement between Iran and Oman arrived at Sohar Port on Saturday, according to the Iran–Oman Joint Chamber of Commerce.

The ship had departed from the Iran’s Bandar Abbas port, and a

maritime trade, during an OCCI delegation visit M O T I VAT I O N A L TA L K

Conquer your own ‘Mount Everests’, young students told Times News Service MUSCAT: You must conquer your own personal “Mount Everests”, Omani mountaineer Khalid Al Siyabi urged students here.

As part of its 40th year celebrations, the Indian School Muscat has started an interactive motivational talk series titled “My Story”, which will serve as a platform of interaction between successful personalities and the students.

Khalid, the first Omani national to conquer Mount Everest on May 23, 2010, delivered the motivational talk on Wednesday, May 20, 2015, at the new multipurpose hall in the school. This was the second motivational talk in the series.

Al Siyabi took the students on a journey to the summit through a presentation and videos, and gave a step-by step experiential talk.

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Private sector employs more than 200,000 insured Omanis SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY VISIT

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MUSCAT: Total number of insured Omanis working in the private sector until the end of last April reached 203,563 citizens with an increase rate of 0.7 per cent compared to the figures recorded last March.

The category of workers who receive salaries ranging between OMR325 – OMR400 recorded the highest numbers, while the highest percentage of increase was recorded in the category of workers who receive salaries ranging between OMR1,000 to OMR2,000.

The latest statistics issued by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) indicated that the number of male Omani citizens working in the private sector reached 156,679 persons, while the female citizens working in the private sector reached 46,884 persons.

Compared to the figures recorded last March, the category that receives insured salaries ranging between OMR325 – OMR400 decreased with 1.4 per cent, despite the fact that it still constitutes the highest number among the Omanis working in the private sector.

The number of Omani workers in this category reached 63,778 citizens (including 43,242 male workers; in addition to 20,536 female workers).

Rise in high-end bracket On the other hand, the category of the citizens who receive a salary exceeding OMR2,000 witnessed the highest percentage of increase with 4.4 per cent.

The number of Omani workers in this category reached 7,003 citizens (including 6,240 male workers and 763 female workers). -ONA

Khalid Al Siyabi emphasised the need to work hard and to never give up. – Supplied photo

As he elaborated on the long and gruelling journey, he spoke of the importance of strength, determination and will power, along with and team work and planning. He emphasised the need to work hard and to never give up on one’s dreams.

number of Iranian and Omani officials attended the ceremony in Sohar, it said in a report.

Iran and Oman agreed to establish a direct shipping line between the two countries to enhance maritime trade during the visit of an Omani business delegation, led by Said bin Saleh Al Kiyumi, chairman of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), to Iran in late April.

According to the Iranian media, the agreement was signed between the chambers of commerce of Iran and Oman as well as an Iranian private sector shipping company.

Abdolhossein Khedri, CEO, Khedri Jahan Darya Shipping AG, the private Iranian company involved in the scheme, had said earlier that three vessels, including two container ships and a bulk carrier, will start making trips every 15 days in the initial phase.

Edwin Lammers, executive commercial manager, Sohar Port and Freezone, had earlier said that logistical support, including a regular shipping service, is the prerequisite for an increase in trade between Iran and other countries of the world, through Oman.

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SU N DAY, MAY 3 1, 2015

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40,842

tonnes of different varieties of fish were exported to Dubai out of the total quantity of 211,000 tonnes caught, according to 2014 statistics

YOUTH ACTIVITY

Core human values in focus as results of SAI-Times open essay, poster making competition announced Times News Service MUSCAT: After a challenging three-tier evaluation process, the results of the 12th SAI and Times of Oman Open Essay Writing and Poster Making Competition were declared.

The competition was held for school children in co-operation with the Ministry of Education, on ‘Value themes’ under the banner of “Spreading The Light Through Human Values - 2015”.

From among 4,500 students who had registered for the event from 275 schools in Oman, 670 children made it to the list of prize winners.

SAI group congratulated the

winners and participants for their creative efforts and also their institutions, families and friends who guided these children to participate in this value-based competition.

“Strictly speaking, every participant is a winner as it has given an opportunity for each one to contemplate on core human values, which by itself is an enriching experience,” said a SAI coordinator.

The list of prize winners list has been uploaded in the website www. saivaluesoman.org. Three prizes are awarded in each group as well as in every category of schools in each region. In addition, consolation prizes are also given.

The award presentation cer-

I N I T I AT I V E

Efforts to regulate fisheries sector Times News Service MUSCAT: Plans are under way to implement a strategy for the fisheries sector which will focus on regulating marketing and export elements, said Salim Abdullah bin Salim Al Rasbi, director general for Fish Marketing and Investment at the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries Wealth.

Speaking to Al Shabiba, the sister publication of Times of Oman, Al Rasbi said that the ministry is currently implementing a strategic plan for the fisheries sector which would encourage the sector and reduce exports.

Big export basket Referring to the large amount of fish being exported, he said, “Fish that is not popular with the local consumers is exported.”

He added the export of fish yields an income to fishermen and ship owners and undoubtedly increases the standard of living of fishermen.

According to 2014 statistics, 40,842 tonnes of different varieties of fish were exported to Dubai out of the total quantity of 211,000 tonnes caught.

The majority of these varieties include Al Oama, Al Khan, A’aifa and Sima, in addition to

Yawaf and Anfour, which are not favoured by local consumers despite their low prices.

The 25,208 tonnes supplied to other parts of the UAE includes Al Dhala’a, Al Saflaq, Saief Rundo and Al Bariya, in addition to Al Aqam, Sal Sagheer, Najrour and Habar. Biyah, Al Sha’ari, Al Kofer, Hamour and Al Sal Al Kabir are also exported to the UAE. UAE top importer The UAE topped the list of countries importing fish from Oman buying 41 per cent of the produce.

The total quantity of fish in 2014 was 211,000 tonnes, of which 132,000 tonnes were exported and 79,000 tonnes consumed locally.

“The export of some types of fish is prohibited. However, in 2014 there were some violations which were spotted and 50 notices were issued,” said Al Rasbi.

Wholesale markets “To make fish available for local consumers, the ministry has extended efforts to operate the fish wholesale markets in Barka, Al Ashkhara, Masira and Sur in order to provide the local fish sellers, restaurants and hotels and fish outlets with the opportunity to obtain the available quantities,” he added.

From amongst 4,500 students who had registered for the event from 275 schools in Oman, 670 children made it to the list of prize winners

emony for the Muscat Governorate will be held on Wednesday, June 3, at Indian School Al Ghubra (ISG) at 5.30 p.m. The winners are requested to be at the venue by 4.30 p.m.

Siddiqa Abdulmajeed Abdullah Al Lawati, director, International

Schools’ Office, Ministry of Education, will be the chief guest for the awards ceremony. Sadeq Jawad Sulaiman, renowned speaker and former ambassador of Oman to the US, will share his words of wisdom at this function.

Prizes for the winners of the

schools in the interior regions will be handed over to the schools through the MoE in the respective regions. All participants will receive certificates, and these can be collected from the venue on the awards presentation day. The top three winning essays and posters will be on display at the ISG during the awards ceremony.

The contest was held in April in three phases in Muscat, Nizwa, Salalah, and Sohar, in addition to Sur and Buraimi for schools in the respective regions and elicited an enthusiastic response from the students of Omani Arabic, Omani Private (bilingual, monolingual and global), Special Education and

International Schools in Oman.

The judges who evaluated the entries were all praise for the children who displayed their writing and drawing skills in dealing with the topics ‘I love my garden’, ‘A good book is the best friend’, ‘Serve the society with humility’ and ‘Blessed Oman, Beautiful Oman’. Each entry was evaluated by three judges, drawn from amongst the professionals and experts in these areas, MoE officials as well as members of the SAI Group.

For further details, contact GSM: 9514 9226 or 9541 5950 or email: saitimesoman9@gmail.com and website www.saivaluesoman.org.

GUtech students excel in ‘Fairy Tales’ project The students were asked to tell their own stories by transforming a part of a famous fairy tale using the different media Times News Service BARKA: It was about telling their own stories by transforming a fairy tale, as the German department of German University of Technology in Oman (GUtech), held a student exhibition of German projects in this academic semester titled “Fairy tales at GUtech”.

Around 170 students who have been studying German for a year, participated in 34 different groups.

GUtech students and staff visited the exhibition in GUtech building.

“Our students were asked to tell

their own stories by transforming a part of a famous fairy tale using different media like comic, video, poster, photo novel, architectural modelling or else,” said Andrea Cornelissen, German lecturer at GUtech and representative of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) in Oman.

Several groups produced their own stories in movies such as ‘Rapunzel’, ‘Peter Pan’ or a ‘Cinderella’ adaptation. “It was not so difficult for us. But I need to speak more German, the accent is very difficult,” said Taahira Khaleque, a computer science student, who will participate in a German language course at RWTH Aachen University in August this year.

“It is very interesting to learn German. We started studying this year only,” said engineering students Reem Al Maskari and Asma Al Alawi who designed and made their own board game.

“We are happy about the creative outcome of the student project. Some students have put more efforts into the creative part than in the language. Therefore, we thought we need to showcase the results,” said Katrin Krause, course coordinator at the German department at GUtech.

ADDING A NEW DIMENSION: Engineering students, Reem Al Maskari and Asma Al Alawi, who designed and made their own board game. – Supplied photo

Don’t litter a beautiful country like OMAN. Ensure proper disposal of garbage.

S U N DAY, MAY 31 , 2 0 1 5

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OMAN

Steady increase in employment as tourism continues to grow The creation of the subsidiaries aims

The government is currently developing the right mix of infrastructure and quality services to accommodate growing numbers of visitors

to allow greater specialisation in a number of key functions

STAFF REPORTER

MUSCAT: Marking its onward development march, the travel and tourism sector has experienced year-on-year growth with all indicators pointing to increasing growth throughout the Sultanate, both in terms of visitor numbers and positive contributions to GDP and employment, says Oman Tourism Development Company’s (Omran), 2014 operating review.

“Visitor numbers are expected to rise steadily over the years. The government is currently developing the right mix of infrastructure and quality services to accommodate growing numbers of visitors.

At Omran we are working hard to build capability and capacity within the sector in order to harness the Sultanate’s great potential as an international destination of choice,” said Omran Group CEO Eng. Wael Al Lawati.

According to Al Lawati, Omran conducted a comprehensive operational review, and a strategic restructuring plan was then submitted to the board of directors to establish three new companies under the Omran umbrella.

The creation of the subsidiaries aims to allow greater specialisation

Eng. Wael Al Lawati Omran Group CEO

GROWTH ENGINE: Over the next 10 years, the projected employment growth within Oman’s travel

and tourism sector is set to increase 3.8 per cent annually, according to World Travel and Tourism Council. – Supplied photo

in a number of key functions and allow Omran to grow and expand its strategic mandate as a master developer and incubator of mega realestate and tourism projects.

The three new companies now cover each of the key areas of Omran’s operations – Hospitality Management, Heritage and Culture and Project Management.

The formation of the new companies comes after the separation of the legislative and development functions within the Ministry of Tourism, and the assignment to Omran for the ongoing responsibility for tourism-related project developments, asset management and operational services in Oman.

Master developer Omran was officially appointed as the master developer for Hay Al Irfan urban development last year. The master plan for the development, which is poised to be the largest mixed use development ever seen in the Sultanate, is underway and is

expected to be ready in Q1 2016.

Meanwhile, construction work on the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) continues at a fast pace with major tenders worth OMR147 million awarded recently. The year 2014 also saw the soft openings of the celebrated Alila Jabal Akhdar Resort and Atana Musandam.

Both destinations have attracted significant attention and have pocketed a growing number of national, regional and international awards and accolades.

In 2015, both hotels also became the first developments in Oman to be awarded with the prestigious LEED green building certification.

Steady progress has also been made on Omran’s highly anticipated joint venture projects including Ras Al Hadd Development, Saraya Bandar Jissah and Al Baleed Resort.

When completed, these developments will increase the tourism and real-estate offerings of the Sultanate

and strengthen the sector at large.

Al Lawati stressed the importance of sustainable development as a roadmap for the future.

“Omran’s commitment to social responsibility goes hand in hand with our position as a corporate leader in the communities in which we operate. We work in harmony with our local communities on a number of projects and initiatives to support and promote local talent. Nurturing local talent within Omran is also a key priority for the company with our current Omanisation levels standing at 72 per cent,” said the official.

Omran’s sustainability initiatives have been recognised nationally, regionally and internationally through a growing number of awards and accolades including Best Environmentally Friendly Project Award for the Marine life Campaign and Best Women’s Empowerment Project for the Sewing Incubator project at the Asia CSR Awards 2014.

Al Lawati also expressed confidence on the steady progress of the sector, but highlighted the continuing need for partnerships and investment from both the public and private sectors.

“Investing in hospitality and mixed-use developments today makes good business sense. Investments lay solid foundations for a stronger travel and tourism sector, and thus, an increasingly diversified and resilient economy in the coming years. Building capacity and capability of the sector is vital in order to accommodate growing numbers of visitors arriving on our shores every year and ensuring that they will keep returning in the years to come,” he explained.

“It is not only visitors who will benefit from Oman’s growing tourism sector. Over the next ten years, the projected employment growth within Oman’s travel and tourism sector is set to increase 3.8 per cent annually, according to World Travel and Tourism

Council. These figures are a clear evidence of the sector’s increasingly important role in creating a sustainable future for young Omanis,” he said.

“Given Omran’s position as the nation’s developer for tourism and mixed-use destinations, it is quite pleasing to witness the steady increase in employment opportunities as the travel and tourism sector in the Sultanate continues to elevate its position on the world stage,” said Al Lawati.

Recent reports and publications highlight a bright future for the sector. According to the 2015 World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report, Oman is ranked ninth out of 141 nations in terms of tourism safety and security. Earlier this year, the New York Times named Oman as among the 52 top places to visit in 2015. In 2013 the Sultanate welcomed 1.9 million visitors with estimates placing the 2014 figure at well over 2 million.

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SU N DAY, MAY 3 1, 2015

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My passion for cooking started when I was 14 years old, and I believe it is essential to ignite this passion as early as possible, so I am delighted to be working with the young talent of the Al Bustan Palace Culinary Academy Issa Al Lamki, Oman’s first celebrity chef

Chef Issa to add Omani flavour to Iftar cuisine Oman’s first celebrity chef will help nine Omani students currently enrolled in the hotel’s Hospitality Academy

GASTRONOMIC DELIGHT: The training will culminate in a contest

for students to create their own signature Ramadan dishes.

in dishing out an authentic Omani flavour this Ramadan

Times News Service MUSCAT: Oman’s first celebrity chef and renowned culinary aficionado Issa Al Lamki will join Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton hotel, this Ramadan to help impart his vast gastronomic knowledge to the culinary students of the palatial resort, bringing an authentic flavour of Oman to its Iftar offering, and a unique Ramadan experience for guests.

Chef Issa will take to the kitchen to teach nine of the Omani students currently enrolled in the hotel’s Hospitality Academy, launched in 2013 to develop young local talent, about traditional Ramadan cuisine.

The training will culminate in a competition for the students to create their own signature Ramadan dishes, with the winning three being served at the hotel’s lavish Iftars, alongside Chef Issa’s own Shuwa Madrooba dish, created exclusively for guests of Al Bustan Palace.

Chef Issa will act as head judge, alongside a panel of judges including a representative from

the Ministry of Tourism and the hotel’s new General Manager Katrin Herz.

Unique experience “We wanted to create a unique experience for both our students and guests to celebrate Ramadan this year, and we are delighted to have Chef Issa on board to help provide Omani authenticity as well as the very best Ramadan cuisine. Our students are feeling incredibly inspired, and I am enormously excited to be part of such a memorable initiative for my first Ramadan in the Sultanate,” said Herz.

Chef Issa Al Lamki added, “My passion for cooking started when

I was 14 years old, and I believe it is essential to ignite this passion as early as possible, so I am delighted to be working with the young talent of the Al Bustan Palace Culinary Academy. For me, the winning dishes will combine traditional Omani Ramadan flavours, with the student’s own interpretation and creative touches.”

The competition will take place on June 9, 2015, and the three winning dishes will be available for guests to try throughout Ramadan at the hotel’s Iftar at Al Khiran restaurant.

The lavish buffet will also include live stations, with a variety of Middle Eastern and international cuisine, with further highlights including shuwarma, shuwa kebbeh and creative ‘henna’ cookies. A Sohour buffet will be served at the Beach Pavilion, where a variety of shisha will also be available.

Timings and prices for Ramadan dining at Al Bustan Palace: Iftar: Sunset – 10pm, OMR 18 for adults, including Ramadan beverages.

Al Khiran OMR 9 for children over 6 and below 12.

Sohour: 9pm – 2am, OMR 10.

Beach Pavilion Shisha – OMR 5.

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

27 Darsait students score a perfect 10 Times News Service MUSCAT: Indian School Darsait (ISD) said it was proud of its students as they have achieved brilliant results in the CBSE Class X examinations held in March 2015.

The school expressed its delight that it could produce a remarkable result with all the students eligible for higher studies.

Out of 204 students who appeared for the assessment, 27 scored a perfect 10 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA), 65 students got CGPA 9 and above, 59 students scored 8 to 8.8, 46 students got 7 to 7.8 while 7 students scored 6 to 6.8.

Following are the stars that really made the school scale the

heights with their scintillating performance of CGPA 10: Anziya N Shah, Sri Vrindha Rajesh, Swetha Madhan, and Aishwarya Anil, in addition to Greeshma Cyriac, Khansa Rahim, Pavanjeeth Balakrishnan and Amita, Athira Pradeep Kumar.

Daison Darlan, Manjul Sharma, Nima Begum and Reshma Bhasker, along with Christina James, Maria Rose Therese, Sreelekshmi Ben and Abhijith Ganapathy also scored a perfect 10. Aiswarya Prakash, Gopika Ganga Nair, Vishal George Joseph, Fahmidha Khalid and Hiba, in addition to Ann Mary Jose, Abhyarchi Harsh, Aiswarya Udayakumar, Anu Kulangara Justin and Ananthakrishnan P M, made up the rest scoring 10 in the CGPA. O F F I C I A L S TAT E M E N T

ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT

BankDhofar assures accounts not hacked

Plan to A1 build grids

Staff Reporter

These investments are also designed to enhance the reliability and security of power supply.

“We have plans to build a number of grid sub-stations in Muscat in collaboration with Oman Electricity Transmission Company (OETC). We have also commissioned several grid substations in Al Amerat and are in the process of commissioning few others. These projects are managed by OETC.” “Also, there are more than 10 primary sub-stations that are under development or have reached commissioning stage.”

According to Al Badri, some of the investments are for 30kV and 11kV networks that cater to the growth of customer demand.

Al Badri said that the funds for the proposed investments are met by way of internal accruals and long-term borrowings from financial institutions.

MUSCAT: BankDhofar has moved to reassure customers saying its systems have not been hacked.

“There were some fraud cases on a number of ATM cards and the issue has been communicated to customers. ATM withdrawal threshold was temporar-

ily limited to ensure transaction security and now it has been reinstated,” the bank reassured its customers through an official statement uploaded in its Twitter handle.

BankDhofar currently has a nationwide network of 68 branches and 145 ATMs and 52 CDMs across the length and breadth of the Sultanate.

< FROM

Underground lines The MEDC chief also noted that underground lines in the Muscat governorate are being planned only for the newly developed areas and there is no plan to change existing overhead lines to underground lines.

Asked about a proposal to privatise the company, he said, “We are still in the consultancy stage.” A consortium of advisors led by Canada-based CPCS Transcom International Limited is advising the government on privatising the MEDC. The purpose of the study is to explore privatisation options and to assess the readiness of the MEDC for privatisation.

The consultancy agency will also look at whether the proposed privatisation will improve customer service and enhance efficiency of company.

S U N DAY, MAY 31 , 2 0 1 5 At least 71 civilians were killed, and dozens were wounded, when regime helicopters dropped barrel bombs on the city of Al Bab and in Al Shaar in east Aleppo city Rami Abdel Rahman, Director, The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights

REGION

UN envoy opens Yemen talks as coalition pounds rebels A member of ousted president Ali Abdullah Saleh’s General People’s Congress said a Mauritanian

WRECKAGE: A Houthi rebel stands amidst debris from the house

diplomat met on

of Houthi leader Rafiq Rafiq, which was destroyed by a Saudi-led air strike, near Sanaa on Saturday. - Reuters

Saturday with ‘senior leaders’ of the party for talks on the Geneva conference

SANAA: The UN envoy for Yemen on Saturday launched a mission to discuss stalled Geneva peace talks as Saudi-led coalition warplanes pounded rebel positions across the war-ravaged country.

In the southern province of Abyan, a car bomb blast killed 12

rebels and wounded eight others, a local official said.

Coalition warplanes launched deadly air strikes against rebel positions in the southern city of Aden, a military official said, without giving figures.

But 48 hours of fighting there

ACCIDENT

13 policemen among 16 killed in Egypt road crash CAIRO: Sixteen people were killed, all but three of them Egyptian policemen, in a collision between a police vehicle and a truck south of Cairo, authorities said on

Saturday. The accident happened on Friday night along a stretch of road in Beni Suef province about 100 kilometres (62 miles) from the Egyptian capital.

The police vehicle, which was carrying conscripts, crashed into the truck, sending the two vehicles into a roadside canal, said medics and the police. - AFP

and rebel shelling with mortar rounds and Katyusha rockets killed nine people and wounded 132 others, a health official and a spokesman of anti-rebel forces in the port city said.

UN special envoy Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, who flew in to Sanaa on Friday, said “all Yemeni parties must return to dialogue,” quoted by the rebel-held sabanews.net.

A member of ousted president Ali Abdullah Saleh’s General People’s Congress said the Mauritanian diplomat met Saturday with “senior leaders” of the party for talks on the Geneva conference.

But the source said the envoy did not meet with Saleh himself, who lashed out at Saudi Arabia in an interview with a Beirut-based television channel broadcast on Friday. Saudi Arabia has been leading an air war since March 26 targeting Houthi rebels in Yemen

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and allied forces loyal to Saleh.

Clashes have also raged on the ground between the rebels and local militia fighting their advance, especially in southern Yemen.

The Geneva conference had been due to take place on May 28 but has been postponed, in a fresh blow to UN efforts to end a conflict estimated to have killed almost 2,000 people. Speaking from Sanaa, Saleh said in the interview that he had rejected a Saudi offer of “millions of dollars” to drop his alliance with the Houthis.

Coalition warplanes struck a house of the ousted president in his home town of Sanhan, south of the capital, shortly after the interview was broadcast.

The former strongman no longer resides in his Sanhan home which has also been targeted in previous raids, and he is believed to be staying at a hotel in Sanaa. - AFP

WA R - T O R N

Syria barrel bombs kill 71 civilians ALEPPO (Syria): Barrel bombs dropped from regime helicopters killed at least 71 civilians in Syria’s Aleppo province on Saturday, after forces loyal to President Bashar Al Assad retreated from the neighbouring northwestern region of Idlib.

Insurgents now control the vast majority of Idlib after Al Nusra Front —Al-Qaeda’s Syrian affiliate — and its allies overran the last remaining regime-held city and surrounding villages.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said “at least 71 civilians were killed, and dozens were wounded, when regime helicopters dropped barrel bombs on the city of Al Bab and in Al Shaar in east Aleppo city”. Rami Abdel Rahman, the director of the Britainbased monitoring group, said 12 people were killed in rebel-held Al Shaar, including eight members of a single family. Al Bab lies about 40km northeast of Aleppo city and is controlled by the IS group. - AFP

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SU N DAY, MAY 3 1, 2015

INDIA

Bollywood actor Salman Khan gives a speech during the Arab Indo Bollywood Awards ceremony early on Saturday in Dubai. Salman Khan’s five-year prison sentence for killing a homeless man with his SUV after a night out drinking 13 years ago was suspended on May 8, and had obtained a court permission to travel to UAE. - AFP

SCAN THIS TO VISIT

ARTICLE, PHOTO GALLERY W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N .C O M

N I N E - T I M E M E M B E R O F PA R L I A M E N T

Veteran Congress leader Giridhar Gamang resigns from party BHUBANESWAR: Former chief minister of the east Indian state of Odisha and nine-time MP Giridhar Gamang on Saturday announced his resignation from the Congress alleging humiliation by the party which he served for over 43 years.

“I have sent my resignation letter to AICC president Sonia Gandhi. Since the time of Vajpayee government’s fall due to one vote in 1999, I have been humiliated and lost self respect. Though I voted against the Vajpeyee government in wake of a whip, the party did not come to my rescue at any point of time,” Gamang told reporters here.

Stating that he has not decided whether to join any other political party, Gamang said, “There is no

question of returning to Congress again after resigning from it.”

In his letter to Sonia Gandhi, Gamang said, “With a heavy heart and deep agony, I tender my resignation from the primary membership of the Congress. Please accept my resignation.”

Gamang, who was elected from Odisha’s Koraput Lok Sabha segment eight times in a row from the 5th Lok Sabha in 1972, said he was again elected to the lower house of Parliament from the same seat in 2004 for the ninth time.

The Congress veteran had also been a union minister under the prime ministership of Indira Gandhi for one year and five years each under Rajiv Gandhi and P V Narasihma Rao.

However, the 1999 no-confidence motion against the then Vajpayee government became a turning point in his political life, Gamang said. Asked whether he will join any political party now, he called himself a “liability”.

“Why will any political party take me? I have been accused of defeating the Vajpayee government. Therefore, BJP may not accept me. There is no question of joining any regional party (BJD),” he said.

Replying to a question whether he would float his new party, the prominent tribal leader said, “No.I will have my music party.” Gamang is an expert in playing “Changu”, a traditional musical instrument used by tribals of Koraput district.

BRIEFING: Former Odisha chief

minister Giridhar Gamang addressing the media after resigning from the Congress party, in Bhubaneswar on Saturday. - PTI

Gamang said at present he was not affiliated to any political party though active in politics.

“I will never return to Congress.

I have also not decided whether to join any party. I will consider if I get invitation from any party,” he said. Rejecting allegation that he breached party discipline, Gamang said he had never indulged in any anti-party activities.

“I have not even changed my constituency since 1972. Where is the question of changing the party?

I am pained to resign from the party,” he said.

Asked whether he quit Congress due to “pressure” from his son Sisir, Gamang said, “No such pressure from any member of my family. I have not encouraged any of

‘Suit boot’ more acceptable than ‘suitcase’, says Modi Modi in an ‘amazing hurry’ on land ordinance: Rahul

The prime minister says the Land

Did the coal and spectrum scandals or the CWG fiasco benefit the poor? Everyone knows who were the beneficiaries

Acquisition Bill is not a matter of life or death for him and that he was prepared to accept any suggestions

NEW DELHI: In a strong response to Rahul Gandhi’s ‘suit boot ki sarkar’ jibe, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said “Suit boot is definitely more acceptable than suitcase.”

He also said that the contentious Land Acquisition Bill is not “a matter of life or death for me” and that he was prepared to accept any suggestions.

“Suit boot is definitely more acceptable than suitcase. After ruling for 60 years, the Congress has suddenly remembered the poor.

People of this country have suf-

Narendra Modi

NEW DELHI: Rahul Gandhi on Saturday made a blistering attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing him of being in an “amazing hurry” to “grab” land from poor farmers by deciding to repromulgate the Land ordinance for the third time.

“Modi ji in an amazing hurry to grab land from poor farmers at any cost. A 3rd attempt at pushing the anti farmer Land Ordinance!”

“Congress Party will continue to fight for the rights of the kisan and mazdoor against this #suitbootkisarkar”, Rahul said in tweets. The reaction of Gandhi, who has led the Congress campaign against the Land bill, came hours after the Union Cabinet at a meeting decided to recommend repromulgation of the controversial ordinance for the third time. - PTI

Prime Minister

fered and remained poor due to shortsighted policies of the Congress,” he told ANI. Hitting out at Congress, Modi said, “Did the coal and spectrum scandals or the CWG fiasco benefit the poor? Everyone knows who were the beneficiaries — some chosen industrialists and contractors.”

On the controversial Land Bill, the Prime Minister said in an in-

terview carried by The Tribune newspaper, “This is not a matter of life or death for me. And neither was it the agenda of my party or the government.”

His comments on the Land Bill assume significance as the Cabinet today decided to promulgate the Ordinance on it for the third time. Modi said the opposition to the Land Bill is “totally unjustified and unfortunate” as he argued

that the government has not made any changes for private industry.

“We have made changes only in response to demands of the states.The benefits of these changes will also accrue to the rural poor in terms of irrigation, housing, electrification, as well as better physical and social infrastructure,” he said.

The Prime Minister also spoke about the controversy surround-

ing the ‘One-Rank, One-Pension’ (OROP) for ex-servicemen and told the newspaper, “We are committed to OROP, but we are in consultation with defence personnel regarding the definition of OROP. “Our government is here for five years and we cannot do anything without consulting the people concerned. The dialogue is being actively pursued.There is no need to have any doubt on this.” - PTI

my family members into politics.

But he (Sisir) is doing politics on his own.” Gamang also explained his position in the letter to Sonia Gandhi narrating the situation under which he resigned.

Copies of the letter were circulated at the press meet. “..from 1972 to 2015, long 43 years, I have served in different party posts in the Congress, as an MP, central minister, chief minister. I have never uttered or made any statement against my leaders and Congress party. As a disciplined party member I have never lost the patience nor deviated from the principle for the interest of my political life and interest in the Congress party,” he said in the letter to the Congress president. -PTI MEGA PROJECT

e-Library and Swayam portal to help achieve zero illiteracy NEW DELHI: Union HRD Minister Smriti Irani on Saturday said the setting up of a national e-library and project ‘Swayam’ were among the many steps being taken by the government to achieve the target of zero illiteracy in the country.

“India is making significant changes in the next six months.

The first mega project is the national e-library wherein the IITs (Indian Institute of Technology), IIMs (Indian Institute of Management), NCERT (National Council for Educational Research and Training) and also the National Archives will be pooled in,” Irani said in the 90-minute programme ‘Talkathon’, organised by the information and broadcasting ministry.

“On one platform, maximum education resources will be provided.

Even the Saarc (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) nations have asked us to extend these resources to them and we are doing it,” she said.

Irani said that providing quality higher education was a challenge and therefore the government was on the verge of starting the “Study Webs of Active-Learning for Young Aspiring Minds” (Swayam) online portal that will bring together IIT, IIM, CBSE, NIOS, and other institutes to provide free, quality education to classes 9 to 12. - IANS

QUANTUM OF LEAD PRESENT

Case lodged against Nestle, five others in Maggi noodles row BARABANKI (UP): A case was lodged on Saturday against Nestle India in a local court here over safety standards of its Maggi product, while actors Amitabh Bachchan, Madhuri Dixit and Preity Zinta have also been separately dragged to the court for promoting the ‘two-minute’ noodles brand.

While the case against Nestle India and five others was filed by the UP food regulator FSDA (Food Safety and Drug Administration), a local advocate filed a separate case against the three cine personalities.

“Following FSDA Commissioner P. P. Singh’s permission to file a case against Nestle India, a case has been filed in the court of ACJM (Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate) here,” Barabanki Food Safety Officer V. K.Pandey said.

The case has been lodged against the company’s Nestle Nagal Kalan Industrial Area unit (Haroli, Una in HP), Delhi-based Nestle India Limited, an Easy Day outlet in Barabanki and the Delhi-based parent firm Easy Day, as also against and their FMCG (fast moving consumer goods) managers,Mohan Gupta and Shabab Alam, Pandey said.

The FSDA had found monosodium glutamate and lead in excess of the prescribed limit in Maggi samples tested by it.

The FSDA had collected the samples from the Easy Day store in Barabanki and had sent the consignment for testing, which showed that the quantum of lead present was 17 times more than the stipulated limit, which is considered hazardous.

The Union Consumer Affairs

The Food Safety and Drug Administration had found monosodium glutamate and lead in excess of the prescribed limit in Maggi samples tested by it

Ministry has also asked the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to look into the matter.

The second case has been lodged by a local advocate in Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) court against the cine stars for promoting Maggi noodles, saying they have been found to be harmful for public health.

There were no comments from the company.

Talking to newspersons, the advocate said he has lodged the case in the court of CJM against the three film stars who have claimed the instant noodles as healthy in TV promotions under sections 420, 272, 273 and 109.

He said these film stars have earned hefty sums by terming Maggi noodles as healthy in advertisements and alleged “this wrong publicity amounts to malafide intentions and playing with the health of the kids and young people of the country”.-PTI

S U N DAY, MAY 31 , 2 0 1 5

A1 1

INDIA Monsoon to miss normal date as advance sluggish The normal date for onset of monsoon over Kerala is June 1. It also marks the official onset on rains in the country DELAYED: Monsoon clouds hover over the Mumbai skyline near

Marine Drive sea-face side on Friday. - PTI

NEW DELHI: The onset of southwest monsoon over south Indian state of Kerala has been delayed from the date forecast by the Met department due to its “sluggish” pace.

The normal date for onset of monsoon over Kerala is June 1.

It also marks the official onset on rains in the country.

This year, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted that it will hit the southern state on May 30.

According to Skymet, a private forecasting agency, monsoon arrived over Andaman and Nicobar Islands on May 16, three days prior to the onset date.

Since then, the advance has been slow. By May 21, the southwest monsoon advanced over Bay of Bengal touching southern parts of Sri Lanka. But here on, the monsoon stagnated for a week.

“The Arabian Sea branch of the southwest monsoon made very slow advance and is yet to reach the extreme southern tip (Kerala) of India. Cloud build up on either side of the sea was looking promising till a few days back for the timely onset over Kerala.

However, it slowed down as

the cloud pattern became a little diffused and unorganised,” Skymet said.

However, the IMD has refused to call it a delay, but said that the progress was sluggish.

“As per our forcast, there is +/difference of four days, which is from May 27 to June 3.

“At this moment, monsoon has already entered the Arabian Sea, crossed Sri Lanka and entered the Bay of Bengal. We are closely monitoring its progress. During the progress of monsoon, it is often observed that its pace varies,” said Krishnanand Hosalikar, Deputy Director, IMD. But pre-monsoon rain is still being observed in Karnataka and Kerala.

“In the last 24 hours, Karnataka has observed good rainfall. Kerala too experienced good rains on May 28 with Pampakuda in Ernakulam district recording 55mm of rains. Udayanampuram in Kottayam district received 37mm of rains while Mundathicode in Thrissur observed 30mm of rainfall. On May 29, the rainfall activity in Kerala became minimal with isolated places receiving

very light rain. “However, in the last 24 hours, some rainfall has been observed in the state but the weather activity has been patchy in nature, which is not the characteristic of monsoon,” Skymet added.

Crucial for sowing The timely onset of the southwest monsoon is crucial for sowing of kharif (summer) crops such as paddy and a deficit in rainfall may hit output.

Agriculture, which contributes only 15 per cent to India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) but employs about 60 per cent of population, is heavily dependent on the monsoon as only 40 per cent of the cultivable area is under irrigation. Last year, the country had received 12 per cent less rains, which hit production of grains, cotton and oilseeds.

Agriculture growth stood at 0.2 per cent in 2014-15 fiscal. According to the government’s estimate, total foodgrains production has declined to 251.12 million tonnes in 2014-15 crop year (July-June) from a record production of 265.04 million tonnes last year.- PTI

EARTHQUAKE

Mild tremors felt in Delhi NEW DELHI: Mild tremors were felt on Saturday in the national capital and neighbouring areas on Saturday triggering panic as people living in highrises rushed out of the buildings.

According to IMD, the earthquake was epicentred in Japan and measured 7.9 on the Richter Scale, whose mild shocks were felt in Delhi. - PTI

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Towell Auto Centre LLC

S U B R A M A N I A N S WA M Y ’ S L E T T E R

‘Not enough being done to bring black money’ AHMEDABAD: Senior BJP leader Subramanian Swamy on Saturday said he had written to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggesting ways to bring the black money back, and the present measures were not enough.

“I have written a letter to the Prime Minister on how we can bring it back. But our Finance Minister (Arun Jaitely) is a law-

yer who says this is not right or that is not right,” Swamy said, speaking at an event organised by the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industries (GCCI) here.

“Whatever should have been done by now has not been done.

But it will be done soon, because Prime Minister Modi’s patience has some limits, and today he

spoke on the issue. I have trust,” he said. “Whatever is happening at present, it will not serve the purpose. The latest bill on black money is only a tax evasion punishment bill....This bill is necessary but there is no reason to think that only this bill will do everything. Whatever is being done in Parliament will not get the black money back,” he said. - PTI

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SU N DAY, MAY 31, 2015

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What is US president’s Plan C for immigration?

W

hat a bad week it was for President Obama’s immigration policies, and for millions living in limbo in the United States. A federal appeals panel swatted down Obama’s latest executive actions to limit deportations — key elements of his strategy to mend a broken immigration system through administrative fixes after a Republican House strangled full-scale legislative reform.

It was the second time Republican-appointed judges, with partisan efficiency, picked apart what the administration said was a rock-solid legal argument for using its discretion to protect more than four million people from being deported. This is the month that these millions were supposed to begin lining up to tell the authorities: Here we are, sign us up. But because 26 states sued to block Obama’s plans, the immigrants, instead of receiving permission to legally stay and work, are left holding nothing but unmet promises, their lives as anxious and uncertain as ever.

So what is Plan C? The administration faces a tangle of options.

It says it still expects to win its case, probably not with the district judge, whose decision included many pages of railing against Obama “lawlessness,” but maybe in the Republican-dominated Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, or in the Supreme Court. This litigation’s journey will last well into next year, possibly beyond. What lies over that horizon, who knows. While it waits and frets, the administration still has an obligation not to quit. Obama should follow through on his oft-stated commitment to do all he can to make the immigration system more humane.

This means making sure that his original 2012 programme, called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, which shields immigrants brought here illegally as children, works as planned. It has not been blocked by any court, and many young people — perhaps 90,000 a year — are still free to make use of it as they reach the age of eligibility. The administration’s revised enforcement priorities — in line with Obama’s promise to focus on deporting serious criminals, not workers and parents who pose no threat — still need to be honoured.

Simultaneously, Obama and the Homeland Security secretary, Jeh Johnson, need to keep throttling back their turbocharged deportation effort, which at times has exceeded 400,000 a year. The administration deported about 360,000 people in fiscal 2014, and the total looks to be lower this year. But there is still much further to go, and there are still too many worries in immigrant communities that minor scrapes with the law will continue tearing families apart.

A new Obama enforcement effort — the Priority Enforcement Programme, or PEP — promises to keep the focus on dangerous immigration violators, but it still maintains a troubling link between federal authorities and local law-enforcement agencies, whose cops and deputies should not be part of any deportation dragnet.

REFUGEE AMNESIA

Alas! Europe today is forgetting its past JAVIER SOLANA

- The New York Times News Service

A happy appointment

T

he appointment of Professor Louise Richardson to be vicechancellor of the University of Oxford is significant for a number of reasons. First, she is a distinct outsider, as an Irishwoman moving from a Scottish university, St Andrews. She may well bring some fresh thinking to an institution that can tend towards insularity. Second, of course, is that she is the first female to hold this important position. It is a shame that this particular glass ceiling has not cracked before, during the post’s near 800year history, but we hope that the verdict in the senior common rooms will be “better late than never”. Professor Richardson faces a number of challenges. Of particular interest to those outside the university is what she will be able to do to encourage social mobility. Oxford has long stated its ambition to open itself up to bright students from less-privileged backgrounds, but with mixed results.

There is little the university can do to influence state secondary education, but the new vice-chancellor will soon have an opportunity to pass some sort of verdict on the past 25 years of dizzying reform and counter-reform in our schools.

Second, the vice-chancellor needs to take a lead in tackling what appears to be some surprisingly rife sexual harassment. For obvious reasons, she may be listened to when she raises this ugly subject with her colleagues. Third, she needs to lobby Government to ensure that the university receives the funding it needs to remain a world-class institution, whether from fees or elsewhere. As some colleges have found at some cost to their reputations, academic excellence and pioneering research can never be taken for granted.

As a federal university where almost all of the real power rests with the 44 colleges and halls, Professor Richardson will have to rely on her powers of persuasion to effect real change. - The Independent

Some taxi drivers try to take advantage of heat This refers to the news story, Scorching heat takes toll on people’s health (May 30). Some taxi drivers in Muscat don’t bother to pick up the passengers. It’s too hot and some people are forced to wait for 20 to 25 minutes for a taxi. The taxi drivers are taking a advantage of the weather conditions and the disadvantage of those who do not have a private vehicle. Taxi drivers are fleecing such people, which is really bad. Good human beings can never act like this.

Justin Sanctus Muscat

Give the workers resting place to cool themselves This refers to the news story, Scorching heat takes toll on

people’s health (May 30). I hope the authorities will ensure that there are resting facilities built for the construction and other workers so that they can rest a for a while during the midday break and cool their bodies. We need to show them kindness and perhaps undertake drinking water distribution as well.

Parvi Ponambalam Muscat

Excessive heat retention in body can lead to fatalities This refers to the news story, Scorching heat takes toll on people’s health (May 30). The summer this year in Oman and elsewhere in the Middle East is particularly scorching. It may be so because of the El Nino effects. Excessive heat retention in the body can lead

The international community is legally bound to protect those who are being forced to flee their homes by conflict and persecution.

Given Europe’s history and values — not to mention its proximity to some of the beleaguered populations — it has a special obligation to contribute to this effort

A

fter World War I, when millions of European civilians were made refugees, forced out of their homelands by enemy occupation or deportation, an international regime was developed to coordinate effective responses and ease the suffering of those who had been uprooted. A century later, another refugee crisis is underway, and this time, it is Europe that has the power to provide safe haven to desperate people. Yet it has not risen to the occasion, with many of its responses failing to match the urgency of the situation.

In just the first few months of 2015, more than 38,000 people have attempted to reach Europe by crossing the Mediterranean from North Africa. Some 1,800 people have died as a result — more than twice the number of such deaths in all of 2013.

Disappointingly, many Europeans have responded to this humanitarian crisis, which closely resembles the one that Europe endured a century ago, by opposing their countries’ acceptance of any more refugees.

How quickly we forget our past.

Worse, some Europeans want us to forget. Today’s sentiment has been fuelled by populist parties positioning themselves as guardians of national identity.

Europe, they argue, faces a mass influx that threatens to place even greater strain on its economies, labour markets, and cultures. One does not have to look back a century to see how dangerous the consequences of such rhetoric can be.

But the populists’ narrative is not just inflammatory; it is false. Although it is sometimes difficult to distinguish the drivers of displacement, data from the United Nations refugee agency show that at least half of those trying to reach Europe from North Africa are fleeing from war and persecution. The International Organization for Migration, together with Italy’s navy, has determined that this year’s migrants hail mainly from Eritrea, Gambia, Nigeria, Somalia, and Syria — countries where conditions entitle their citizens to request asylum.

In short, this is a crisis not of immigrants, but of refugees — and it is showing no sign of slowing. Indeed, with instability and violence plaguing much of North Africa and the Middle East, the decline in armed conflict since World War II seems to have slowed — and could even reverse.

The international community is legally bound to protect those who are being forced to flee their homes by conflict and persecution. Given Europe’s history and values — not to mention its proximity to some of the beleaguered populations — it has a special obligation to contribute to this effort.

But Europe is not the only region that has been burdened by today’s migration flows — or even the most affected. Nine out of ten refugees do not leave their region, fleeing to countries very close to or bordering their own. The Jordanian refugee camp Zaatari alone

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Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body SENECA

shelters more than 82,000 people; if it were an official city, it would be among the country’s most populous.

Lebanon, a country of just 4.5 million people, has taken in an estimated 1,116,000 refugees — roughly equivalent to the population of Brussels.

Given this, it is difficult to justify Europe’s failure to agree on a system of relocation and resettlement for a total of, say, 20,000 refugees this year, distributed among 28 countries according to individual quotas.

Indeed, many European countries have accepted very few refugees so far, making their inaction even more difficult to comprehend. Spain and Greece, for example, have each accepted only about 4,000 — a meagre amount, when compared to Jordan or Lebanon.

A quota-based agreement could help to disperse the burden across European countries. As it stands, major differences among countries’ asylum policies have meant major disparities in refugee numbers.

Indeed, just four countries — France, Germany, Italy, and Sweden — accounted for two-thirds of all refugees accepted in Europe last year.

When a network of human traffickers turns the Mediterranean into a mass grave, Europe cannot simply turn away. Instead of succumbing to destructive populism and dishonourable isolationism, Europe’s leaders must commit to fulfilling their legal and moral responsibility to help the refugees — and, of course, to explain to their citizens why this is so important.

Such an effort would require every European country — not just those situated on the Mediterranean — to contribute resources to support large-scale search-and-rescue operations. Border control cannot be the only — or even the primary — objective.

Beyond helping to manage the crisis today, Europe must commit to helping fragile and conflict-affected countries overcome the challenges they face, improve their citizens’ wellbeing, and build thriving economies. To retain its moral and political authority, the European Union — perhaps the most compelling example of how cooperation can support peace and prosperity — must implicate itself beyond its frontiers in a sincere and determined way, reaching mutually beneficial agreements with its southern neighbours.

Behind almost every request for asylum that an EU country receives is a human tragedy — a micro-history of violence, fear, and loss. The goal of the asylumseekers is not to reach Europe; it is simply to escape conflict and persecution. And they should be able to.

Last century — in both world wars — Europeans were the ones fleeing from persecution. With the number of displaced people now at levels unseen since World War II, Europe has a responsibility to recall its history. And it should take the opportunity to respond to today’s refugee crisis as it would have liked the world to respond to its suffering — and to prove that the EU’s value extends far beyond its borders. - Project Syndicate

to fatalities at high temperatures.

After a certain temperature, things become difficult to manage and the affected people need intensive care. I feel that climate change is the main cause of these unbearable heat conditions.

Anu Shaikh Wadi Kabir

Some parts of Muttrah are affected by water crisis Water shortage in some parts of Muttrah has become a permanent problem for people. The supply gets disrupted once or twice a week and because the pressure remains low the water never flows to the overhead tanks. With the holy month of Ramadan approaching, this problem needs attention S. A. S Bukhari Al Washal

The roots of terrorism spreading across Africa The war on terror of George W. Bush and Tony Blair, carried on

by Barack Obama, Gordon Brown, David Cameron, Nicolas Sarkozy and François Hollande, has not made us any safer. For us, the common people, the world is fast turning into a huge death trap. We do not know when and where terror will strike and snuff our lives out.

A large part of the world seems to have become the new battleground and cradle of terrorism. The roots of terrorism are spreading faster than imagined in the African continent. Africa now offers extremism the right ground to survive and flourish. Concerted efforts are required to root out the menace of terrorism from the world.

Haitem Azaiba

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T I MES OF OMAN

S U N DAY, MAY 31 , 2 0 1 5

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PERSPEC IVE The degree of Machiavellian The insecure scheming — to be Axact!

American T

he story about Karachi-based entity Axact, masquerading as the “world’s leading IT company”, but effectively running a fakedegree mill whose scale of fraud beyond borders is admittedly astounding, has been well told over the last fortnight to bear repetition.

The ‘who’ was never in question. But from Axactly what and Axactly where to Axactly when and Axactly how, the pun is sweeping!

It is a scam that has shaken the Pakistani media scene to the core. The jarring breaking news/alert din on the telly ad nauseum has put everything else in the shade. The range and depth of issues far more critical in import that have been lost to the circus is spectacular. Not that the media moguls care.

Coming from Declan Walsh, the affable New York Times Pakistan bureau chief, who lit the bonfire with one of the most damning accounts of his ‘Pakistan’ career (he was the Guardian’s correspondent for Pakistan from 2004-2011 before the NYT hired him in 2012), there is even a joke doing the rounds: beware the scorn of the once-scorned!

Walsh was expelled from Pakistan in 2013 on the eve of the general elections for “undesirable activities” — a ruse for probably going too far (but the stick was intended for uncovering a different subject: apparent subterfuge surrounding the controversial drone programme).

Seriously though, the Ireland-born Walsh is widely respected and enjoys camaraderie with hacks in Pakistan and last week even expressed a wish to return. But where the Axact exposé has won him plaudits, it has exposed the failure of those who matter in Pakistan — whether in the media or government — to do their homework, and do so in an above-board mien.

For the uninitiated, rumours about fishy business — if not exactly in the mould of a bizarre bazaar that Axact has turned out to be — were legion, and have been for a number of years. Zahid Gishkori, a bright young reporter from daily The Express Tribune, for instance, did make an attempt to wade into this territory in 2010, but barely managed to go unscathed given the power and reach of the accused. A court case is still pending!

But then, Bol, the much vaunted subsidiary of Axact, hyper-billed as Pakistan’s largest media enterprise hadn’t happened — technically, it still hasn’t, and even its test transmission was nixed

KAMRAN REHMAT

One well-informed TV anchor, who threw broad hints at names, claims that three worried media tycoons, who are otherwise bitter rivals, had a secret rendezvous before the Axact scandal surfaced to strategize the unravelling of the behemoth-to-be

by the usually staid Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority on cue from the Ministry of Information last Thursday.

It wasn’t until Bol began to cause tremors across the media landscape by cherry-picking the who’s who of the industry with astronomical packages and unheard of perks that the tycoons began to sweat, and then, get down and dirty. Bol snared not only the crème de la crème, but also hundreds of other less sung employees following their lead. And, their unsuspecting pipe dream.

One well-informed TV anchor, who threw broad hints at names, claims that three worried media tycoons, who are otherwise bitter rivals, had a secret rendezvous before the Axact scandal surfaced to strategize the unravelling of the behemoth-to-be.

Ever since the damning report, the private media — predominantly electronic— has gone on a rampage: apparently, demonizing Axact, but exorcising Bol in spirit. This is particularly true of the two top media houses frenziedly trying to outdo each other in running down their object of ire with ruthless, if lopsided, diatribes.

It prompted Federal Interior Minister Nisar Ali Khan to famously suggest that “only God could save those who the media picks on.” The government’s own alacrity in moving against Axact against its usually inert streak betrays an eye for political profit from blowing with the wind.

But while the said media houses’ heightened sense of insecurity surrounding Bol is manifest in the utterly crass indulgence to go for the kill by misusing their mediums— the sheer hypocrisy is palpable: the same entities have themselves long indulged in questionable practices; both in how they built their empires and compromising media ethics for personal and financial gain.

While there are no two opinions about why Axact must face the full scope of the law and those responsible duly punished, the saddest part of the unraveling is the fate of more than 2,000 media practitioners, who were lured by better prospects to Bol, but are now stranded.

To escape a spell in the wilderness, they may have little choice but to return to the wolf’s lair, any which one. Back to Square One, I dare say, never had a more resounding surround sound.

The author is a senior journalist based in Islamabad. All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely his and not of Times of Oman.

Cameron could be both right and wrong

B

ritain has a schizoid relationship with its European neighbours. The former French president, Charles de Gaulle, recognised this symptom when he met Conservative Prime Minister, Harold Macmillan, during 1962. Addressing this personality problem, de Gaulle rejected Britain’s bid for membership of the European Economic Community (EEC).

Edward Heath who led these earlier negotiations eventually took Britain into the EEC as Conservative prime minister. The British public later voted to remain part of Europe in the only in/out membership referendum to date; held during 1975.

Margaret Thatcher negotiating a financial rebate from the EEC set the single European market in motion. This change of European political direction was never subject to a British referendum. The public where never empowered to democratically endorse the single market, as a price worth paying for Britain’s financial rebate.

Instead the rebate was sold to the public as financial victory over Europe, with the tabloid press and Conservative supporting broadsheets hailing this as Thatcher’s

GARY SMITH

success. A few years later she signed the Single European Act, which created the single European market - one of the biggest acts of European integration.

As the single market gained momentum the Maastricht Treaty brought another British Conservative prime minister into conflict with the EEC and his own party.

John Major skilfully secured opt outs from this important treaty: specifically on border controls.

Faced with the possibility of ever closer political integration a referendum is now being offered.

This referendum, advanced in the Conservative’s recent election programme, was designed to limit the political threat from the United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP).

David Cameron has staked his political reputation on securing meaningful EU reform prior to placing an in/out referendum before the electorate. Two years were originally allocated for this EU renegotiation.

Rather than 2017, May 2016 is now touted as a possible EU referendum date. This provides little time for meaningful negotiations to materialise reforms, which can be agreed by Cameron’s European

colleagues; particularly since Britain is not at the political centre of Europe.

Following Thatcher’s single market agreement, holding this rushed EU referendum thirty years later is risky. Cameron is right to hold a referendum to settle this Thatcher legacy, but wrong to hurry potentially complex restructuring negotiations with his European colleagues.

Cameron’s renegotiation haste may unite France and Germany whilst alienating smaller European states. This in turn may split his Conservative Party as has often occurred in the past.

To hold his party, and government, together Cameron may ultimately oppose Britain’s continued EU membership; urging the electorate to vote ‘No’ in favour of a straightforward trade arrangement with Europe.

With any luck this impending referendum may finally resolve the Conservative Party’s EU personality disorder.

The author is a freelance contributor based in Britain. All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely his and not of Times of Oman.

PAUL KRUGMAN

A

merica remains, despite the damage inflicted by the Great Recession and its aftermath, a very rich country. But many Americans are economically insecure, with little protection from life’s risks.

They frequently experience financial hardship; many don’t expect to be able to retire, and if they do retire have little to live on besides Social Security.

Many readers will, I hope, find nothing surprising in what I just said. But all too many affluent Americans — and, in particular, members of our political elite — seem to have no sense of how the other half lives.

Which is why a new study on the financial well-being of US households, conducted by the Federal Reserve, should be required reading inside the Beltway.

Before I get to that study, a few words about the callous obliviousness so prevalent in our political life.

I am not, or not only, talking about right-wing contempt for the poor, although the dominance of compassionless conservatism is a sight to behold.

According to the Pew Research Centre, more than three-quarters of conservatives believe that the poor “have it easy” thanks to government benefits; only 1 in 7 believe that the poor “have hard lives.”

And this attitude translates into policy. What we learn from the refusal of Republican-controlled states to expand Medicaid, even though the federal government would foot the bill, is that punishing the poor has become a goal in itself, one worth pursuing even if it hurts rather than helps state budgets.

But leave self-declared conservatives and their contempt for the poor on one side.

What’s really striking is the disconnect between centrist conventional wisdom and the reality of life — and death — for much of the nation.

Take, as a prime example, positioning on Social Security.

For decades, a declared willingness to cut Social Security benefits, especially by raising the retirement age, has been almost a required position — a badge of seriousness — for politicians and pundits who want to sound wise and responsible.

After all, people are living longer, so shouldn’t they work longer, too?

And isn’t Social Security an old-fashioned system, out of touch with modern economic realities?

Meanwhile, the reality is that living longer in our evermore-unequal society is very much a class thing: life expectancy at age 65 has risen a lot among the affluent, but hardly at all in the bottom half of the

wage distribution, that is, among those who need Social Security most.

And while the retirement system FDR introduced may look old-fashioned to affluent professionals, it is quite literally a lifeline for many of our fellow citizens.

A majority of Americans over 65 get more than half their income from Social Security, and more than a quarter are almost completely reliant on those monthly checks.

These realities may finally be penetrating political debate, to some extent. We seem to be hearing less these days about cutting Social Security, and we’re even seeing some attention paid to proposals for benefit increases given the erosion of private pensions.

But my sense is that Washington still has no clue about the realities of life for those not yet elderly. Which is where that Federal Reserve study comes in.

This is the study’s second year, and the current edition actually portrays a nation in recovery: in 2014, unlike 2013, a substantial plurality of respondents said that they were better off than they had been five years ago.

Yet it’s startling how little room for error there is in many American lives.

We learn, for example, that 3 in 10 nonelderly Americans said they had no retirement savings or pension, and that the same fraction reported going without some kind of medical care in the past year because they couldn’t afford it.

Almost a quarter reported that they or a family member had experienced financial hardship in the past year.

And something that even startled me: 47 percent said that they would not have the resources to meet an unexpected expense of $400 — $400! They would have to sell something or borrow to meet that need, if they could meet it at all.

Of course, it could be much worse. Social Security is there, and we should be very glad that it is.

Meanwhile, unemployment insurance and food stamps did a lot to cushion unlucky families from the worst during the Great Recession.

And Obamacare, imperfect as it is, has immensely reduced insecurity, especially in states whose governments haven’t tried to sabotage the programme.

But while things could be worse, they could also be better. There is no such thing as perfect security, but American families could easily have much more security than they have.

All it would take is for politicians and pundits to stop talking blithely about the need to cut “entitlements” and start looking at the way their less-fortunate fellow citizens actually live.

- The New York Times News Service

Killer heatwave to continue into weekend More than 1,400 people have died as India’s unrelenting heatwave refuses to abate.

Temperatures are set to remain high for several more days

TODAY IN HISTORY

WEATHER FORECAST High (°C) Daytime temperature (°C) 15

20

25

30

35

40

FROM OUR ARCHIVES 21 35 Tehran IRAQ Baghdad 38 IRAN

SYRIA Cairo

SUDAN 39

Khartoum

1862

At the Battle of Fair Oaks, Union General George B. McClellan defeats Confederates outside of Richmond.

1900

US troops arrive in Peking to help put down the Boxer Rebellion.

Riyadh

YEMEN Sana’a

PAKISTAN 37

UAE 43 Karachi

SAUDI ARABIA

MASARRAT WATER PROJECTS TO BEGIN SOON

AFGHANISTAN Kabul Islamabad

42

42 EGYPT

Sigismund is crowned emperor of Rome.

TURKMENISTAN

TURKEY

30

1433

Mumbai

OMAN

New Delhi

45

INDIA

34

35 Hyderabad

Arabian Sea

37

Bay of Bengal

34 500km

Source: AccuWeather, BBC Weather, wire agencies

Graphic News /

Graphics

MUSCAT: The execution works of Khudh Al Masarrat water lane projects in Dhahira region will begin within a few months. The project will meet the requirements of a number of wilayats of the region for drinking water. The tender board had awarded the tender to an Egyptian contracting company with a local company to execute the work for an amount of RO 26,564,377. His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said gave instructions to execute the projects in 1994 during his meeting with sheikhs and dignitaries of Dhahira region. In response to these directions, a ministerial committee was formed comprising the Ministry of Water Resources, the Ministry of National Economy and the Ministry of Electricity and Water to conduct a study of the projects and to adopt necessary steps. It is expected that the minister of water resources will sign an agreement with the executing company in the coming month.

1902 The Boer War ends with the Treaty of Vereeniging.

1915

A German zeppelin makes an air raid on London.

1916

British and German fleets fight in the Battle of Jutland.

HISTORYNET.COM

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SU N DAY, MAY 3 1, 2015

PAKISTAN

We have successfully produced 1MW and 4MW is present in our system. Initially, the electricity will be supplied to our projects and a nearby village Dr Samar Mubarakmand, scientist

Rebels kidnap, kill 22 passengers Wearing security uniforms, 15 to 20 armed men killed the passengers on Friday night after forcing them off buses travelling from the western city of Quetta to Karachi

QUETTA: Gunmen disguised as members of the Pakistani security forces killed at least 22 passengers on Friday night after forcing them off buses travelling from the western city of Quetta to Karachi on the southern coast, officials said.

The assault in the province of Balochistan occurred in the town of Mastung, around 40 km (25 miles) south of Quetta.

“Fifteen to 20 armed men in three pickup trucks and wearing security uniforms kidnapped around 35 passengers,” Sarfaraz Bugti, Balochistan’s home minister, told Reuters.

He said the bodies of 22 passengers were later found around two km away from the main Quetta-Karachi highway in foothills.

Seven of the assailants have been killed in an operation involving hundreds of soldiers and police, he added.

The circumstances of the passengers’ deaths could not immediately be established and the motives of the assailants were unclear.

Chinese investment The attack will be a concern for the government of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif because it raises further questions about the feasibility of a new economic corridor Pakistan wants to build with billions of dollars of Chinese investment.

The much-vaunted project, announced when Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Pakistan in April, envisages an eastern and western route, with the latter passing from Gwadar port in the south through Quetta and beyond.

Separatists have been waging

CLOSE SHAVE: Relatives carry a boy who survived an attack on buses, into a hospital in Quetta, Pakistan, early Saturday. — Reuters

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an insurgency in Balochistan, of which Quetta is the capital, for more than a decade. They are demanding an end to what they see as the exploitation of their resources by people from other parts of Pakistan. Extremist militants also regularly target civilians and the security forces, and earlier this month 45 commuters were killed on a bus in Karachi by a group that has declared allegiance to IS. All of the victims in that attack were members of the Ismaili minority community, but one securi-

ty official said the Mastung attack did not appear to be sectarian.

Officials in Mastung said a major operation involving four helicopter gunships and around 500 security personnel on the ground was underway to hunt down the remaining assailants believed to be hiding in mountainous terrain.

“The kidnappers and terrorists are surrounded by security forces,” Bugti said.

In Quetta, where the bodies of the slain passengers were taken, hundreds of people gathered outside the governor’s house and staged a protest over the lack of security in Balochistan.

Among the demonstrators were relatives of 16 of the victims, whose bodies were laid out in a line wrapped in cloth. — Reuters

FURIOUS: Pakistani relatives of bus passengers killed by unidentified gunmen protest outside the

house of the Balochistan Chief Minister Dr Abdul Malikin Quetta on Saturday. — AFP

JUDICIAL PROBE

ILLEGAL MIGRANTS

Pakistani immigrants land with their dinghy on a beach, next to the marina on Kos island, Greece, early Saturday. Ahmad, one of the immigrants onboard the dinghy, said that they have been rowing for over five hours from Turkey before eventually reaching a beach in central Kos town. According to local media, an average of over 200 immigrants have been arriving in Kos every day in the last two months. — Reuters

ISLAMABAD: The judicial commission investigating allegations of rigging in 2013 general elections has summoned Punjab’s thencaretaker chief minister Najam Sethi and television anchor Hamid Mir for cross-examination on Monday.

The three-judge tribunal headed by Chief Justice Nasirul Mulk issued the orders on Friday after Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf counsel Abdul Hafiz Pirzada said he wanted to conclude his cross-examination by questioning Sethi and Mir. During his cross-examination by the ruling party Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz counsel Shahid Hamid, former secretary of Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) Ishtiaq Ahmad Khan said the election body had directed the returning officers (RO) and district returning officers (DRO) to deposit all the post-election material with the treasury except Form 16 and 17, which were sent to the ECP immediately after election for consolidating results.

ENERGY WOES

Thar coal plant is operational KARACHI: With the ongoing battle against energy crisis, the Sindh government finally generated one megawatt from the Thar coal power plant through an underground coal gasification process recently.

Power generation will be enhanced to 10MW by the end of this year and 100MW by 2016, officials said.

“We have successfully produced 1MW and 4MW is present in our system. Initially, the electricity will be supplied to our projects and a nearby village,” said renowned scientist Dr Sa-

Sethi, Mir summoned over ‘rigging’ in 2013 elections

mar Mubarakmand, who heads the project. Ten wells have been dug up for Thar coal-fired power plant near Islamkot, each with a distance of 50 metres.

Chinese electricity After the gasification process, pure gas is connected to coal gas generators imported from China from where the electricity is produced, according to officials.

“In these wells, steel pipes are drilled down to 600 feet to reach the coal bed and pump out underground water.

“We later fire the coal inside

with compressed air to produce the gas mixed with other particles,” said supervisor Abdul Manan Larik.

“We have installed a gas purification plant to get rid of unnecessary particles including carbon and sulphur in order to produce pure gas that is linked with generators,” Larik said.

He said the government had earlier allocated Rs10 billion for this project to generate 100MW under the pilot project, but due to financial constraints, there has been no tangible progress in the past five years. — Express Tribune

Storage facility He also told the judges that the directions were given to ROs and DROs as the election commission did not have a storage facility at its secretariat in Islamabad or at its provincial offices all over the country.

On September 17, 2012, Ahmad said, a consultative meeting of 16 political parties had proposed that judicial officers should be appointed as ROs and DROs. Later on, the ECP requested the National Judicial Policymaking Committee (NJPMC) to allow district court judges to perform the duties.

The then ECP secretary said that he briefed the NJPMC meeting held at the Supreme Court

Najam Sethi

Hamid Mir

The three-judge tribunal headed by Chief Justice Nasirul Mulk issued the orders on Friday after Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf counsel Abdul Hafiz Pirzada said he wanted to conclude his cross-examination by questioning Punjab’s then-caretaker chief minister Najam Sethi and television anchor Hamid Mir

building, wherein the committee granted permission to judicial officers to act as ROs and DROs. In March 2013, he added, a handbook was issued under the signature of the then chief election commissioner for the guidance of ROs and DROs. Ahmad said that international observers from European Union, Commonwealth, Japan, National Democratic Institute, Malaysia and a few other countries as well as local observers of the Free and Fair Election Network (Fafen) were allowed to visit polling stations during the general elections.

He said the observers sent their

reports and on the basis of that, the ECP compiled its post-election review. The report was uploaded on the ECP website and copies of it were provided to the members of the electoral reforms committee.

He added that the caretaker government had provided full assistance to the ECP during the 2013 elections, as it was a constitutional requirement under Article 220 of Constitution.

Replying to a question by ECP’s counsel Salman Akram Raja, the ex-secretary said all presiding officers (PO) were given two sets of Form 14 and 15 according to the ECP instructions. — Express Tribune

S U N DAY, MAY 31 , 2 0 1 5 Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy, second right, leader of France’s main opposition formerly known as the “UMP”, next to his wife Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, during the party congress to mark the foundation of the movement “Les Republicains” in Paris on Saturday. — AFP

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Soccer fans react to a strong earthquake as they watch SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY VISIT the J-League first division soccer game between ShoARTICLE, PHOTO nan Bellmare and Sanfrecce W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N .C O M Hiroshima in Hiratsuka, near Tokyo, Japan. An 8.5 magnitude earthquake struck off the east coast of Japan on Saturday, shaking buildings in Tokyo, but there was no danger of a tsunami and no reports of damage since the quake was extremely deep. — Reuters/Kyodo

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A1 5

WORLD

4,200 migrants saved in the Mediterranean Myanmar to take migrants to Rakhine

On Friday the Italian navy said 17 dead bodies had been found on one of the boats off Libya. Details of the nationalities of the victims and how they died have not yet

LUCKY TO BE ALIVE: Migrants wait to disembark from the Irish navy ship LE Eithne as they arrive in the Sicilian harbour of Palermo, Italy, Saturday. — Reuters

been released

B L A C K S E A S TA N D O F F

Russian military jets intercept US warship MOSCOW: Russian military aircraft were scrambled to head off a US warship that was acting “aggressively” in the Black Sea, state news agency RIA reported on Saturday, citing an anonymous source in Russia’s armed forces in Crimea.

Russia’s territorial waters The source was quoted as saying that the US destroyer Ross was moving along the edge of Russia’s territorial waters and heading in their direction.

“The crew of the ship acted provocatively and aggressively, which concerned the operators of monitoring stations and ships of the Black Sea Fleet,” RIA quoted

the source as saying. “Su-24 attack aircraft demonstrated to the American crew readiness to harshly prevent a violation of the frontier and to defend the interests of the country.”

Russia’s Defence Ministry was not immediately available to comment on the report.

Earlier this month both Britain and Sweden said that they had scrambled fighters to intercept Russian bombers near their territory.

The US said last month that it was filing a complaint to Russia over a Russian fighter’s unsafe interception of a US reconnaisance plane in international aerospace over the Baltic Sea. — Reuters

ROME: More than 4,200 migrants trying to reach Europe have been rescued from boats in the Mediterranean in last 24 hours, the Italian coastguard said on Saturday.

In some of the most intense Mediterranean migrant traffic of the year, a total of 4,243 people have been saved from fishing boats and rubber dinghies in 22 operations involving ships from nations including Italy, Ireland, Germany, Belgium and Britain.

On Friday the Italian navy said 17 dead bodies had been found on one of the boats off Libya. Details of the nationalities of the victims and how they died have not yet been released.

The bodies and more than 200 survivors will be brought to the port of Augusta in Sicily aboard the Italian navy corvette Fenice later, the coastguard said.

Migrants escaping war and poverty in Africa and the Middle East this year have been pouring into Italy, which has been bearing the brunt of Mediterranean rescue operations. Most depart from

the coast of Libya, which has descended into anarchy since Western powers backed a 2011 revolt that ousted Muamar Gaddafi.

Calm seas are increasingly favouring departures as warm spring weather sets in.

800 migrants drown Last month around 800 migrants drowned off Libya in the Mediterranean’s most deadly shipwreck in living memory when their 20-metre long fishing boat capsized and sank.

That spurred the European Union to agree on a naval mission to target gangs smuggling migrants from Libya, but a broader plan to deal with the influx is in doubt due to a dispute over national quotas for housing asylum seekers.

The EU plan to disperse 40,000 migrants from Italy and Greece to

other countries met with resistance this week, with Britain saying it would not participate and some eastern countries calling for a voluntary scheme.

Around 35,500 migrants arrived in Italy from the beginning of the year up to the first week of May, the UN refugee agency estimated, a number which has swelled considerably since. About 1,800 are either dead or missing.

Most of those rescued on Friday and Saturday are expected to reach ports around southern Italy during the weekend. The British naval vessel HMS Bulwark offloaded more than 740 early on Saturday at the southeastern Italian port of Taranto. More than 200 migrants arrived at the Calabrian port of Crotone in south-west Italy on board the Belgian navy ship Godetia. — Reuters

YANGON: More than 700 migrants found crammed into a fishing boat by Myanmar’s navy will be taken to the country’s troubled Rakhine state, a local official said on Saturday, adding all those on board were from Bangladesh.

A total of 727 people, including 74 women and 45 children, were discovered in the hull of a vessel on Friday morning in the Irrawaddy delta region with state media reporting that 50 passengers had perished before they were rescued.

It is the latest boat to have been discovered as the region battles a migrant crisis that has erupted since the start of May, leaving around 3,500 people on Thai, Malaysian and Indonesia soil and an estimated 2,500 more stranded at sea.

Rohingya The majority of those fleeing to the three countries are persecuted Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar’s western Rakhine state or people escaping poverty in neighbouring Bangladesh. — AFP

B

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM SUNDAY, MAY 31, 2015

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Oman Electricity Transmission Co. raises $1b from debt market Oman Electricity Transmission Company intends to use the proceeds from the issue to repay existing debt and finance capital expenditure of ongoing and future projects

Times News Service MUSCAT: As much as $1 billion debt has been raised by Oman Electricity Transmission Company (OETC) from its maiden notes issue from international markets.

OETC and Electricity Holding Company (EHC) on Saturday announced the successful pricing and settlement of OETC’s inaugural $1 billion notes, which is due on May 7, 2025.

OETC intends to use the proceeds from the issuance to repay existing debt and finance capital expenditure for ongoing and future projects and for other general corporate purposes, said a company release.

Tenor of 10 years The issuance of the note, in the principal amount of $1 billion with a tenor of 10 years, marks the firstever investment grade interna-

Picture used for illustrative purpose only. – Times file picture

tional bond issuance by an Omani corporate entity and also the largest ever international capital markets issuance out of Oman.

“OETC was able to meet a large financing requirement at attrac-

C O N TA I N E R S E RV I C E

New shipping service links Sohar Port with South Asia Times News Service MUSCAT: A new container ship called Messini started its new service to Sohar Port, with the inaugural vessel reaching here on Friday.

The new service, in partnership between Evergreen and Simatech, will now regularly connect Sohar Port with other major ports in South Asia. The new line is an important addition as it broadens the connectivity of Sohar with the world and will offer even more choice for Omani importers and exporters.

“By attracting investment in Oman, we are realising the vision of the government to create another major regional hub port which will help grow not only our captive cargo, but will also take full advantage of Oman’s strategic location for transshipment activities,” said Sultan Al Habsi, chairman of Sohar Industrial Port Company (SIPC).

“Today’s maiden call bears

witness to the steady growth in both our handling capacity and our efficiency at Sohar Port. The continued smooth operations at OICT have brought us new lines and more connections.

Regular calls of vessels like the EGL Messini are a sign of even bigger things to come,” added Andre Toet, chief executive officer of Sohar Port and Freezone.

Oman-bound cargo Sohar Port aims to ensure all Oman-bound cargo will be directed through Omani ports in the near future. Jamal Aziz, CEO of Sohar Freezone said: “Sohar Port Authority is actively working together with OICT and our other terminals on a strategy to ensure all Omani cargo flows are secured in Oman.”

As Sohar Port flourishes so does the Freezone; Jamal Aziz concluded: “We now have the capacity for 1.5 million TEUs annually through the port and that translates directly into more

business opportunities in Sohar Freezone; as the Freezone grows as a manufacturing base, the port will also grow its share of exports. Our aim is to build more in-country value all the way along the supply chain and today’s ceremony marks another important step on that journey.”

Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi; Said bin Hamdoon bin Saif Al Harthy, undersecretary of the Ministry of Transport and Communications for Ports and Maritime Affairs; Andre Toet; Jamal Aziz, the CEO of Sohar Freezone; Albert Pang, the CEO of Oman International Container Terminal; as well as representatives of the Evergreen and Simatech shipping lines were at the quayside ahead of the arrival of the vessel in Sohar. There has been a continued rapid growth of Sohar Port; since the closure of Port Sultan Qaboos in Muscat to commercial traffic in June last year, the handling capacity for container traffic at OICT in Sohar Port has more than doubled.

PETROCHEMICAL PLANT

Oman commits to invest $7b in Indonesia for oil refinery Times News Service JAKARTA: Oman has committed to invest $7 billion to build oil storage facilities, a petrochemical plant and a refinery in Indonesia, said an Indonesian minister.

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Sudirman Said revealed that Oman was interested in building a new oil refinery in Riau, an Indonesian newspaper reported.

Oman would supply the required crude oil for the refinery, develop storage facilities, and could later expand into petrochemicals, the minister said. “It has prepared $7 billion in total and is now in the

process of obtaining a permit.

Ground-breaking of the refinery project is expected to be as early as next year,” Sudirman said following his meeting with a senior Omani official.

Figures from Oman’s Ministry of Oil and Gas shows that it currently produces an average of 960,300 barrels of crude oil and condensate daily, Jakarta Post said in a report.

The Sultanate of Oman has exported a daily average of 948,493 barrels of crude oil, with China as the main buyer.

In April, Oman’s exports to China accounted for almost 83 per cent of its total export volume.

However, according to the re-

port, imports to China declined by 5 per cent in April compared to March.

Indonesia, which is currently seeking to re-enter the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) as an observer nation, is trying to secure more crude oil supplies to feed its ballooning energy consumption.

Its national oil output currently amounts to approximately 800,000 barrels per day. However, the country’s roughly 250-million citizens need as much as 1.6 million barrels per day.

In consequence, Indonesia is now an increasingly major importer of crude oil and petroleum products, the report added.

tive funding levels. This accomplishment is a testimony to the company’s robust business model and the strong regulatory framework of the Omani electricity sector. We are very pleased with the

strong response to this landmark transaction, particularly being the first-ever Omani investment grade corporate issuer,” said Ali Al Hadabi, chief executive officer of OETC. Following a focussed marketing effort by both OETC and EHC on April 22, 2015, covering core financial centres in the United States and United Kingdom, the notes, offered and sold pursuant to Regulation S and Rule 144A, were priced on April 29, 2015 at a coupon rate of 3.958 per cent (+190bps spread to US treasury). The notes saw strong demand from global investors, attracting orders exceeding $2.7 billion.

The offering attracted interest from a diverse group of international investors.

Approximately 33 per cent of the notes were distributed to investors in the Middle East, 28 per cent to investors in the United States, 24 per cent to investors in the United

Kingdom, 8 per cent to investors in Europe and 7 per cent to investors in Asia. By investor type, approximately 62 per cent were distributed to fund managers, 30 per cent to banks and private banks, 4 per cent to agencies and 4 per cent to insurance companies and pension funds.

“The funding strategy supports the company’s growth story, and the strong investor demand for the offering is a testament to investor confidence in the OETC credit story and its operating performance track record,” added Al Hadabi.

The notes settled on May 7, 2015 and are admitted to listing and trading on the regulated market of the Irish Stock Exchange.

Bank Muscat and J P Morgan Securities acted as joint lead managers. Dentons acted as counsel to OETC, and Dechert and Al Busaidy, Mansoor Jamal acted as counsel to the joint lead managers.

B2

SU N DAY, MAY 3 1, 2015

MARKET Leasing firms fare well in the first quarter despite oil slump These firms managed to increase their combined profits by 16% to reach OMR7.7m in the first quarter of 2015 compared to the same period last year

MUSCAT: Non-banking finance companies, which are listed on the Muscat Securities Market, have posted a 16 per cent growth in profits at OMR7.7 million in the first quarter of 2015 compared to the corresponding period last year. In 2014, these companies focused on increasing their capitals to keep pace with the growth in finance sector.

The Sultanate has witnessed economic stability in the first quarter of this year despite slump in oil prices. The firms pointed out

that the public expenditure over the infrastructure projects contributed to the alleviation of the effect of crude price slump on the economic growth.

The companies expect that the demand for their products will grow, benefiting from the increase in public expenditure on the infrastructure projects as many projects being implemented by the private sector.

It also benefited from the government’s efforts exerted to attract and promote investments, availing job opportunities for Omanis and supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The finance companies said in their financial reports in the first quarter of 2015 that these efforts will enhance the business for the private companies with the growth in demand for heavy truck, vehicles and automobiles.

The total capital of the six MSM listed finance companies as of the end of March 2015 grew by 5.3 per cent compared to the end of the March 2014 to touch OMR155.5 million.

Over the past three months, the companies increased their assets as of the end of March 2015 to OMR931.8 million compared to OMR880.2 million at the end

of March 2014. While United Finance Company expects the coming period to be full of challenges, still it believes that the positive economic indicators will help the company to benefit from the expected growth, especially that the company managed to increase its capital and net assets during the past period.

The company expects to continue posting profits and dividends despite these challenges.

It also said that it has followed prudent approach at the time the market is witnessing tough competition interest rate leading to squeezing the profits margin. The company still forecasts opportunities for growth due to continued

public spending on infrastructure projects and growth of business of the private sector.

Liquidity The company also said that the liquidity and trust in the local financial system have provided assurance to traders at the market.

Still, it pointed out that the financial system is witnessing more tough competition with the new entrants at the market. This posed pressures on profit margins by all finance companies.

While the company expects the competition to continue over the coming period of this year, it is still optimistic about the growth of the market.

At the same time, Muscat Finance said that it is optimistic towards the future with the continued public spending on the infrastructure projects.

The company said that it closely follows the market’s movement and response to the sharp decline in oil prices. Therefore, the company expects reasonable growth in assets and profits by the end of this year.

Taageer Finance said that the public spending and growth of non-oil businesses enhance the positive outlook to the market. It added that in light of the positive initiatives that are coupled with growth in investment and spending, the outlook for finance industry is promising.

Oman Oryx Finance said that it will continue focusing on concluding quality contracts while maintaining it conservative growth. It will also improve efficiency in production and therefore have better control over expenses. - ONA

HAVE YOUR SAY

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

Seminar on Basel III today MUSCAT: Union of Arab Banks (UAB), in cooperation with the Central Bank of Oman (CBO), will organise a three-day specialised banking seminar on ‘Basel III: the new framework for liquidity and stress tests’, on Sunday at Crowne Plaza Hotel. The seminar will highlight reforms made to the overall management systems to liquidity risk, and established interim arrangements approved by the Basel Committee to enter into the stage of the application of new standards for liquidity.

Rabi’ Ni’ma, the banking expert, academic and head of Risk Assessment Department at the Banking Control Commission in Lebanon will give lecture at the event.

Al Hassan Engg. bags $10m EPC contract MUSCAT: Al Hassan Engineering Company Abu Dhabi (controlled by Al Hassan Engineering owning 49 per cent of its share capital), has received LOA for the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) project, ICAD gas treatment to remove H2S from Abu Dhabi Gas Industries (GASCO) for $10.24 million. The project duration is 15 months from June. - Times News Service/ONA

FIRST QUARTER

T H R E E - D AY M E E T I N G

Conference on minerals and mining to be held in December MUSCAT: Oman Expo and Autad Geologic and Environmental Consultancy, in collaboration with the General Authority of Mining, will organise Oman Minerals and Mining Exhibition and Conference in December.

Dr Salim bin Hamad Al Busaidi, chief executive officer of Ma’aden Projects, said that the conference and exhibition will provide an ideal opportunity for companies operating in minerals and mining sector, investors, businessmen, decision makers and public officials to meet and exchange views on the latest developments and technologies in the field of mining.

The three-day conference will also provide an ideal opportunity to address the main challenges facing the growth of this industry and maximising its gains.

He further said that the conference will provide decision makers with an opportunity to review the best mechanisms to maximise gains from this vital sector to enhance the growth of the national economy and diversify sources of income.

In his statement, he called on the government to benefit from the experiences of companies operating in the field of mining, mining and exploration equipment companies, consultants, marble and granite companies, building materials companies,

BRIEFS

The three-day event will also provide an ideal opportunity to address the main challenges facing the growth of this industry and maximising its gains

chromite technology and processing organisations, nonmetallic rock extraction and processing unit, IT & C, data processing and transmission companies, explosive and blasting device companies, mining engineering, as well as testing and processing laboratories.

Multinational firms Dr Al Busaidi, called on the government to benefit from the experience of the multinational companies operating in mining industry, especially some of them intends to invest in the Sultanate and benefit from its at-

tractive business environment.

He added that promoting mining sector requires many geological studies and setting up training centres and institutes to qualify the human resources that can meet the needs of mining sector in a better way. There should also be a databank that can provide private sector and investors with data on the available resources and the type of materials that can be exploited.

The contribution of mining to the GDP now stands at 0.4 per cent with plans to increase it by the end of Oman Vision 2020 to 2 per cent.

It is worth mentioning that the Sultanate has many areas that are rich in metals and metallurgical metals which means that local and foreign investors have a lot of opportunities in this field.

Many reserves that are rich in chromite, copper, gold, dolomite, zinc, limestone, marble, gypsum and silica sand were discovered in the Sultanate.

The State Council approved in the beginning of May the report of the economic committee on the laws that regularise the exploitation of mining sector in the Sultanate. The report sheds light on the natural resources in Oman, the related laws and regulations and challenges facing the optimum utilisation of such resources. - ONA

India grows at 7.3 per cent; beats China MUMBAI: India has posted an annual growth of 7.3 per cent, overtaking China in the first three months of 2015, but analysts warned further measures were needed to boost the economy.

The growth rate for the financial year that ended March 31 came in slightly lower than the 7.4 per cent that the statistics ministry had predicted back in February. But the news that Asia’s third-largest economy grew by 7.5 per cent in the fourth quarter, overtaking China, is a major boost for Prime Minister Narendra Modi a year after he was elected.

China posts 7% growth India’s giant neighbour posted growth of 7 per cent for the first three months of 2015.

Friday’s figures were the first GDP data to be released since the government introduced a revised formula for calculating GDP that has baffled analysts.

“The real economic momentum is not encouraging,” chief economist at YES Bank Shubhada Rao said, indicating the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) was almost certain to reduce interest rates for Tuesday for a third time this year.

“Key sectors like agriculture and construction are slowing down.

The GDP number is really being supported largely on the basis of strong tax collections. - Agencies

S U N DAY, MAY 31 , 2 0 1 5

B3

MARKET Family businesses get valuable survival tips in Oman, operating in the Sultanate since 1988.

Best international practices, succession planning, corporate governance, compliance, financing, and asset protection are some of the issues that family businesses Jean Stephens, chief executive officer of RSM International.

should take into

— Picture by A.R. Rajkumar/Times of Oman

consideration

ELHAM POURMOHAMMADI

elham@timesofoman.com

MUSCAT: By putting in place best international practices, family owned businesses in Oman can overcome many challenges, while ensuring their survival from one generation to the next, according to experts.

Succession planning, corporate governance, compliance, financing, asset protection, and internationalisation are some of the issues that family businesses should take into consideration, according to officials from RSM International.

RSM International, the world’s 7th largest network of audit, tax

and advisory firms, and the 6th largest global provider of tax services, held a seminar at Al Bustan Palace Hotel on May 28 and 28, as part of its Regional Conference for Partners of Member Firms in the Middle East and North Africa region. Officiating at the opening was Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, secretary general of the Supreme Council for Planning, and was attended by a number of officials and family business owners.

German experience Speaking at the seminar, Rolf Mählmann, head of the Family Owned Business advisory services of RSM Germany, shared the German experience in assisting family businesses and elaborated on the services that RSM International offers clients in Oman.

Integral role of family Mählmann highlighted the substantial and integral role of family businesses in the economy, noting that they constitute more than 80 per cent of all businesses worldwide, adding that 35 percent of Fortune 500 companies are family owned.

According to Mählmann, RSM International provides advice in many areas, including ownership structure, business plan development, strategic planning, governance and constitutions, finance and funding, internal controls and system implementation, employee benefits and compensation planning, conflict and mediation, succession planning, exit strategies and retirement planning.

George Mathew & Co is RSM International’s only member firm

DEBT CRISIS

Focus on Greece at G7 meeting DRESDEN, (Germany): Japan and the United States pressed Greece and its European partners to resolve Athens’ debt crisis and avoid rattling the eurozone and the global economy, as the issue dominated talks of the G7 finance ministers on Friday.

Even though Greece was not on the official agenda of the threeday meeting in Dresden, it was

a key topic as time runs out for Athens to reach a deal with its international creditors to unlock 7.2. billion euros ($7.9 billion) in bailout cash.

“All parties need to move,” US Treasury Secretary Jack Lew told reporters.

Lew urged Greece to bring forward a “credible plan” and “take serious action.”

But there also “needs to be some flexibility on the part of the institutions,” namely the European Central Bank, the International Monetary Fund and the European Commission, Lew said.

The three lenders are demanding that the Greek government push through economic reforms in return for the last tranche of bailout funds. — AFP

Increasing trend Speaking to Times of Oman, Jean Stephens, chief executive officer of RSM International, said the number of family businesses is increasing in the Gulf region.

“It is a natural progression, in terms of an entrepreneur starting and then expanding it for his family, from a management perspective,” she said. Stephens also emphasised the importance of the culture of ‘transparency’ within family businesses.

Asked whether she encourages family owned businesses to become publicly listed, she said, “Mostly no, but it depends on each business, where (they) can raise funds, and what their succession plans are.”

As for conversion into joint ventures, Stephens said that also depends on how the business is developing and whether they are receiving investments.

According to RSM International, over two thirds of family owned businesses fail to make the transition from first to second generation, and only 12 per cent continue onto the third generation.

In addition, the chief executive officer of RSM International said ‘security’ is a challenge in this part of the world, when speaking about internationalisation.

RSM International network, as of January 2015, had fully independent member firms and correspondents in 112 countries. The member firms employ a combined total of 37,443, including 3,279 partners in 732 offices.

ECONOMY

Ukraine debt talks next week KIEV: Ukraine’s finance minister on Friday said Kiev and its private creditors would next week launch direct debt restructuring talks that could save the war-torn country from a devastating default.

Natalie Jaresko’s announcement came as the ex-Soviet state’s pro-Western leadership races to meet a late June deadline by which it must find a way to save $15 billion over four years. A watertight debt relief plan would allow the International Monetary Fund to hand over the next slice of a $17.5-billion loan at the core of a $40-billion global aid package.

IMF executives are yet to name a specific date on which they will discuss Ukraine during their late June meeting. But Jaresko’s office

said a teleconference between “finance ministry representatives” and a pool of commercial US creditors has been provisionally scheduled for next Friday.

“We are slowly but confidently emerging from crisis,” Ukrainian news agencies quoted Jaresko as saying. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Thursday signed a bill passed by parliament last week giving Kiev “the right, if necessary, to stop payments to foreign debt holders”.

The measure is largely symbolic and meant to underscore lawmakers’ support for a payment moratorium that could theoretically turn Kiev into a financial outcast with no access to international lending markets. - AFP

B4

SU N DAY, MAY 3 1, 2015

FEATURE

is going after a new class of customers: other businesses.

The Web retailer has unveiled Amazon Business, a new marketplace offering tractor parts, latex gloves, paper clips and millions of other products needed in factories, hospitals, schools and offices.

Amazon, which has amassed 278 million active shoppers, is now aiming for a chunk of the $1 trillion that US companies spend annually in business-to-business purchases, a market where Costco Wholesale Corp., Staples Inc. and others have long been active. Amazon Business is likely to step up competition with rival marketplace EBay Inc., which will soon be fending for itself as a standalone company once it spins off faster-growing PayPal as part of a planned split.

“We want businesses to be able to buy what they need so they can quickly get back to work,” Prentis Wilson, Amazon’s vice president of industrial and scientific supplies, said in an interview.

The new marketplace is essentially a revamp of Amazon Supply, which was rolled out in 2012 to sell more than 500,000 products to customers in industrial and scientific areas. Now, Amazon is opening up the service to include more than 2 million third-party sellers, expanding inventory beyond what it could sell directly.

Now, with Amazon Business, the Seattle-based company is seeking to cater to clients such as Tulsa Community College, which is using Amazon to order test tubes, basketballs, office supplies and other goods, instead of having employees fetch them from local retailers or specialty sellers.

The day-to-day needs of the 15,000-student school translate into about $10,000 in orders a

month, a number that keeps growing as more staff embrace e-commerce to buy things they need, according to Terry Lastinger, assistant director of purchasing at Tulsa Community College.

Like consumers, businesses are shifting more of their spending online. Some 68 percent of business purchases were made on the Web in 2014, up from 57 percent the previous year, according to a study by Acquity Group. That survey found Amazon to be the leading thirdparty website for business purchases, used regularly by 17 percent of those polled.

Amazon Business will be a marketplace featuring more than hundreds of millions of products.

Buyers will find vastly expanded inventory from multiple merchants, often with discounts for bulk purchases. Sellers will also be able to communicate directly with highvolume business buyers who preregister as commercial customers, a feature not on Amazon’s consumer oriented marketplace.

Amazon Business does not have a membership programme similar to Amazon Prime, which is offered to consumers for a $99 annual fee.

Instead, orders of $49 or more will get free two-day shipping, Amazon said. Business buyers will also get additional online tools, such as purchasing approvals, order tracking and tax management.

“I really see small businesses gravitating towards this because it’s so easy to use and they can get so many things they need in one transaction,” said Christine Dover, an analyst at IDC. “Don’t discount the size and number of small businesses. There are a lot of them.” — Bloomberg News

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B5

ROUND-UP

Mazoon Electricity starts automated data reading

C U LT U R A L E V E N T

MGS team celebrates Gujarat Day in style

The integration of the systems will lead to a higher degree of accuracy and simplified processes for the customer, overall improving the experience

MUSCAT: After the successful cooperation between Mazoon Electricity Company, Part of Nama Group, and the Royal Oman Police in the management of introducing the automated technol-

ogy to read identification cards, Mazoon Electricity Company has taken a further step to improve the customer experience by linking the identification card data with the company’s customer relation management system.

The integration of the systems will lead to a higher degree of accuracy and simplified processes for the customer, overall improving the experience, says a press release.

“After the success that we received from the automated ID card readers, Mazoon Electricity Company planned for an expanded implementation of this technology.

"We wanted the ID card readers to be activated on our electronic payment machines to make it easy for our customer to view all their accounts at the same time, as well as having the ability to access all the billing details and make payments to the accounts individually or as a group,” stated Eng. Zahir Abdulla Al Abri, CEO of Mazoon

Electricity Company.

“This technology aims to simplify the procedures for customers to manage their accounts in a more efficient way, this is done by utilising the identification cards without resorting to go to the collection offices and waiting in the queue. There is also the additional benefit of reducing the need for copying original documents, this will especially reduce paperwork in the billing stages of the relationship,” explained Salim Said Al Kamyani, senior manager commercial affairs.

It’s worthwhile mentioning that Mazoon Electricity Company is currently working on improving the customer service experience through automating processes, which goes in hand with the government’s direction in implementing the E-Government systems to simplify services to the nationals and residents of the Sultanate.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

HSBC supports Oman’s 1st Inter-Collegiate Career Fair MUSCAT: As part of its commitment to enabling Omani youth to reach their full potential, HSBC Bank Oman recently sponsored the country’s first Inter-Collegiate Career Fair (ICCF) and showcased a range of employment and development opportunities.

During the career fair over 300 graduates and students registered for jobs and training opportunities at HSBC Bank Oman. Opening doors to greater career prospects, the bank shared knowledge on the world of retail and commercial banking, and helped prepare more than 100 students from eight educational institutions to prepare to enter the workforce through workshops that enhanced their capabilities, says a press release.

On the occasion, Andrew Long, Chief Executive Officer at HSBC Bank Oman, said, “At HSBC Bank Oman, we are committed to offering our current and potential employees a working and cultural environment that is both challenging and rewarding, encourages professional and personal development, and is supported by tailored learning opportunities to help them

realise their career ambitions. We are fully cognisant of our role in Oman as a local bank and actively participate in supporting the Omanisation agenda by identifying and driving the development of Omani talent through local and overseas programmes.”

Long added, “HSBC Bank Oman is always keen to support important career fairs held in the country and introduce talented Omanis to the wide variety of rewarding career opportunities available in the banking and financial sector. We value such opportunities to interact with potential future bankers and share our international experience and learning programmes with stu-

dents, demonstrating how they can benefit from fulfilling and challenging careers with HSBC Bank Oman.”

Aiming to reach out to graduates and undergraduate students looking for a head-start in their careers, HSBC Bank Oman’s professionals delivered a number of workshops during the career fair around commercial banking, personal development and winning at interviews.

These workshops aim to provide students with a number of important techniques required to be successful in the job application process, including how to prepare effective resumes and conduct a strong job interview.

LIMITED TIME

OSN announces new exciting offer MUSCAT: OSN announced the most exciting limited time offer for both new and existing subscribers after the success of the March 2 months free offer.

Now viewers have a choice to subscribe or renew to OSN platinum HD, premier HD and premier packages to avail two months free viewing by subscribing one year. The offer doesn’t end here; it also covers free dish, LNB and accessories along with free installation for all new subscribers, says a press release.

In addition to that, OSN also announced two months free offer for package upgrades to OSN platinum HD, Premier HD and Pre-

mier Packages. The two months free offer can be availed both for cash and credit card payments.

Now OSN takes entertainment experience to a whole new level with all the best TV channels, the latest movies and series, sports, OSN On Demand HD and various HD content. Also with recently launched OSN Play, subscribers now can watch their favorite shows, movies, live sports and Arabic shows on their laptops, iPods and iPads on the move.

OSN is the home to over 145 channels and services filled with great value entertainment, offering viewers in the Mena region exclusive access to the latest block-

buster movies, top rated series, sports, documentaries, news, kid’s entertainment and live talk shows.

The movie offering includes over a 100 uncut and uninterrupted movie premieres a month.

Mustafa Sultan Enterprises Entertainment Factory (Pay-Tv) division is pioneer in Pay TV business for more than 20 years and is the distributor for OSN in Oman.

Besides OSN, MSE-EF is a leading distributor for beIN Sports. They have a showroom in Al Khuwair and two kiosks at Muscat City Centre and MGM. MSE-EF also offers the Pay Tv services through their sub dealers spread across in all major towns of the Sultanate.

After the success that we received from the automated ID card readers, Mazoon Electricity Company planned for an expanded implementation of this technology

Zahir Abdulla Al Abri

CEO of Mazoon Electricity Company

MUSCAT: After successful mega concerts in seven states and 10 cities, OHMkara, a US based six members dedicated team, held their inaugural musical concert here in the Omani capital recently thanks to Muscat Gujarati Samaj (MGS), the Gujarati Wing of Indian Social Club, to celebrate Gujarat Day at the beautifully decorated auditorium of Al Falaj Hotel, says a press release.

Darshan Palicha welcomed the guests before the traditional lighting of the lamp was performed by the chief guest J S Mukul, Ambassador of India to Oman, together with Anil Khimji, Bakul Mehta, Dilip Mehta, Anil Wader, Arvind Toprani, Rajendra Ved and Dinesh Pawani.

The guests of honour were Pinakin Pathak and Dr Tushar Patel of USA. The ambassador appreciated the community’ various cultural events and conveyed his best wishes to all Gujarati community residing in Oman for this special occasion.

Chandrakant V. Chothani, honorary convener of Muscat Gujarati Samaj, gave vote of thanks and conveyed the prayers and best wishes for His Majesty the Sultan’s long and healthy life. He also appreciated the sponsors and committee members for their support and efforts and the artists for their great performance.

Anil Khimji honoured all the

artists with a token of appreciation from MGS. Sarojben Mehta honoured the outgoing committee member Astha Parikh, who is a well known choreographer of folk dance of Gujarat, by presenting her a traditional shawl.

Tushar Patel and all accompanying artists enjoyed the Oman beauty and hospitality during their short stay in Oman.

Music concert More than 1,100 spectators attended the four hours long mega music concert with renowned artists from India singing old and new melodies of Gujarati music to celebrate the legacy of music legend late Avinash Vyas.

Under the leadership of wellknown business entrepreneur, community leader and self-less individual Pinakin Pathak of OHMkara, a US based entertainment group, his dedicated team of five members planned this wonderful celebration in Muscat to commemorate 40th anniversary of Muscat Gujarati Samaj.

OHMkara’s mission is to promote Indian culture, heritage and music without any political, personal or religious interest or promotion. The six-member team is dedicated to only one mission — of uniting people through music and India’s rich culture and heritage especially that of Gujarati communities.

B6

SUN DAY, MAY 31, 2015

ROUND-UP Call for creation of a business friendly environment to drive economic growth

OER Business Summit, comprising two panel discussions and interspersed with paper presentations by industry experts, set the pace for an engaging session and key insights for over 250 who’s who from Oman’s corporate sector

MUSCAT: OER Business Summit 2015 called for creation of a business friendly environment for investors and allowing the private sector to decide their destiny in order to fast track the growth of the Sultanate’s economy.

Organised by Oman Economic Review (OER), premium business magazine, the summit, comprising two panel discussions titled ‘Life at $50 per barrel’ and ‘Infrastructure Development - The Way Ahead’ and interspersed with paper presentations by industry experts, set the pace for an engaging

session and key insights for over 250 who’s who from Oman’s corporate sector, says a press release.

Moderated by Nima Abu-Wardeh, the presenter of the BBC World News weekly financial programme Middle East Business Report, the summit held at Grand Hyatt Hotel commenced with a presentation by Dr. Hatem Al-Shanfari, chairman of Gulf Baader Capital Markets Company and Faculty Member -Department of Economics and Finance, Sultan Qaboos University on ‘Oman’s Economic Outlook for 2015 and

Beyond.’ The Sultanate is facing challenging times and the economy has made substantial progress despite the hiccups and drop in oil prices, he said. The governmental spending has been instrumental in growth, he said adding that there are ample investment opportunities in diverse sectors.

“What’s needed is a new diversified growth model. Oil prices have not been stable for the past 30 years and it may remain so. There has been a 46 per cent drop in oil prices since June 2014. Fiscal positions are weakening and surpluses are turning into deficits in GCC,” he said.

In the first panel discussion on ‘Life at $50 per barrel’, the panellists comprising Ali Mohammed Juma, chief executive, Vision Investment Services Co., Amran al Mahrubi, technical director, PDO; Irshad Al Lawati, head of corporate affairs, Shell Development Oman; Pankaj Khimji, director, Khimji Ramdas; Rashad Al Musafir, acting CEO, Bank Sohar and Reggy Vermeulen, CEO, Port of Duqm Company, highlighted the need for allowing the private sector to decide its destiny. There

should be least interference in the functioning of the private sector and they should be given more leverage. The drop in oil prices is not going to impact the pace of development, panellists said.

Rashad Al Musafir said the Government of the Sultanate and the private sector is cautious in spending following the drop in oil prices.

But it is essential to continue pursuing projects and creating employment, he said.

Better decision making Pankaj said the private sector should be allowed to decide its destiny. As regards corporate and other taxes, he said, “We will be receptive to tax today more than ever before provided there is better decision making.”

Reggy said Duqm is a mega project. “We are looking at long-term benefits. Duqm is the future of the country,” he said adding that most of the key projects will not be affected because of fall in oil prices.

Mukhtar Hasan, chairman of Al Barij International, set the tone for the second panel discussion with a presentation on ‘The State of Oman’s Economy - Life at $50 per

INVESTITURE CEREMONY

Partners Bank Sohar and Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) were the strategic partners of the event.

Infiniti was the associate partner while Sharq Sohar Steel Group and Worley Parsons were the support partners. Oman Air was the official airline partner and Business International Group, the light and sound partner. Times of Oman and Al Shabiba were the media partners and Mazoon Printing, the print partner. Bloomberg Business Week-Middle East was the knowledge partner.

At the panel discussion that followed, Eng. Ahmed bin Saleh Al- Jahdhami, CEO, Oman Power and Water Procurement Company (OPWP), said that several water

and power projects were being implemented.

“We are keen to involve the private sector in a big way in water desalination projects. “Cost cutting is not a strategy. The Government has a strategy for moving ahead,” he said.

Dr. Bhaskar Dutta, CEO, Al Jazeera Steel Products Company; Fabio Scacciavillani, chief economist, Oman Investment Fund; Khalid Ansari, managing partner, KPMG; Lubna Al Kharusi, CFO, Omran and Rajeev Singh, partner, EY Oman, highlighted the manpower regulations and efforts made to attract private sector participation in tourism related projects and the need to diversify the economy.

Lubna said that when there is a paradigm shift in the way decisions are made, tourism will contribute to the growth of the economy. Fabio said there was no major slowdown on infrastructure projects. However, the challenge is to make business environment friendly for investors.

The biggest challenge for Oman is to provide employment to Omanis, said Khalid Ansari.

BUSINESS MEETING

Indian School Muladha instals young leaders MULADHA: New office bearers were inducted into the Student Council of Indian School Muladha for the academic session 2015-16 in the investiture ceremony held recently in the Kids World.

Dr Kazi Arshad Jafar, SMC president, was the chief guest. The convener and chairman Academic Sub Committee Dr M. Madhusudhanan, treasurer Siddique Hassan, members Felix Vincent Gabriel and Sundaram Miller, principal S. I. Shereef, vice principal V. S. Suresh, CC and EC coordinator Dr Lekha O. C., academic supervisors, Anitha Jerson and Harish, heads of departments, staff, students and beloved parents attended the ceremony, says a press release.

The ceremony, marked with a lot of enthusiasm and gusto, was initiated with the lighting of the lamp by the chief guest and other dignitaries.

Having extended a hearty welcome to the chief guest, Shareef introduced the newly elected heads of the prefect council amidst loud applause.

The vice captains, discipline leaders and class coordinators were introduced by Pramod Joy, council coordinator and Saeeda Khan, academic supervisor for KG Section.

The formal and grand swearingin ceremony was marked by the marching of the students council and house captains, accompanied by the rhythmic music played by the school orchestra. It was a solemn occasion where the young students were all prepared to don the mantle of leadership and discharge the responsibilities entrusted to then by the school.

barrel’ where he said that oil prices were trending at $45 to 60 per barrel in 2015 and added that the Sultanate will continue its spending as per Budget 2015.

“The Sultanate can weather the storm for the next two years.

However, the country has to ease its rules for doing business and cut down on lengthy procedures,” he added.

Shareef administered the oath of allegiance to the prefects. Addressing the new student leaders, he outlined the duties of the office bearers and advised them to take up their responsibilities with utmost sincerity and dedication.

Dr Kazi Arshad Jafar, SMC president, endowed the head boy Anwar Ansari and the head girl Taskeen Sharief, the kids captains Anas Khan and Nabiha Jabeen with their sashes and badges of office. It was indeed a proud moment for the Indian School Muladha fraternity when the head boy received the school flag from the chief guest.

The principal adorned the deputy head boy Sabin Biju, deputy head girl Neha Bhatia and the chief coordinator Kevin Alexander with their sashes and badges. Dr M. Madhusudhanan and Siddique Hassan awarded the insignias and sashes to the CCA captains and the

sports captains.

SMC members Felix Vincent Gabriel and Sundaram Miller, Suresh and the CC and EC coordinator Dr Lekha O.C. pinned the badges of responsibility on the house captains, draped them with sashes and handed over their house flags.

The supervisors, HODs and senior teachers awarded badges to the deputy house captains, discipline leaders and class coordinators.

The School head boy Anvar Ansari and head girl Taskeen Sharief vowed to abide by the rules of the school and promised to do their best to maintain the steady progress of the school and to lead the Students Council with dignity shouldering their responsibilities effectively.

The school choir enthralled the audience with the inspiring song Kilkar Chale Milkar Badhe, written by N. B. Kazi of the English

Department and composed by S. N. G. Moorthy, the music teacher.

A talented group of students mesmerised everyone with their dance performance which celebrated the 60 years of Indo-Oman friendship.

Elaborating on the leadership qualities, the chief guest emphasised the relevance of the day’s function and reminded the budding leaders of the pivotal role of dedication and hard work to achieve their goals. The parents appreciated the efforts taken by the school authority to inculcate the value of discipline and leadership qualities among young minds.

The newly elected prefects are: Head Boy Anvar Ansari, Head Girl Taskeen Sharief, Deputy Head Boy Sabin Biju, Deputy Head Girl Neha Bhatia, Chief Coordinator Kevin Alexander, Cultural Secretaries Ryan Raju Varghese and Anna Maria George, Sports Captains Jamil Parwez and Amal K Naseer, Kids Captain Boy Anas Khan, Kids Captain Girl Nabiha Jabeen, Muscat House Captains Fahad Amjad and Gowri Satheesh, Deputy Captains Dalphin Shejo Peter and Navya Elizabeth, Nizwa House Captains Adesh Shil and Asma Aktharudheen, Deputy Captains Arjun K.N and Sharon Enoz, Salalah House Captains Joy Sharma and Harsha Motwini, Deputy Captains Mohammed Afthab Rafi and Sabna Biju Seema, Sur House Captains Rohan Krishna Ullas and Aysha Abdul Jabbar, Deputy Captains Mohammed Junaid and Anjun Ara Arabi.

The programme concluded with the National Anthem sung by the school choir and a photo session followed by it.

Duqm Refinery holds crucial stakeholder engagement forum MUSCAT: Duqm Refinery organised a stakeholder engagement forum recently in Duqm under the auspices of Sheikh Mohsin bin Hamed Al Maskari, Wali of Duqm.

The forum was attended by over 50 local citizens of Duqm, sheikhs and dignitaries from various governmental and private entities, as well as representatives of Galfar Contracting Co. and senior management of Duqm Refinery, says a press release.

The forum engaged important stakeholders of Duqm Refinery with its upcoming refinery project.

Topics included project status, upcoming business opportunities for the local people of Duqm, training and recruitment opportunities, current and future CSR initiatives of Duqm Refinery.

Adds great value “The Duqm Refinery project will add great value to the economic zone and to the people of Duqm.

Duqm Refinery’s initiative of engaging local communities in Duqm is highly appreciated, it shows Duqm Refinery’s commitment to keep the local communities informed of the project and its development at every stage,” stated Mohsin Al Maskary.

Integral part “Through such forums we aim

The forum engaged important stakeholders of Duqm Refinery with its upcoming refinery project. Topics included project status, upcoming business opportunities for the local people of Duqm, training and recruitment opportunities, current and future CSR initiatives of Duqm Refinery to directly engage with our key stakeholders from the Duqm community; keep them updated on latest developments and at the same time provide a realistic view of the benefits that the local community can receive from the refinery project,” said Jacobus Nieuwenhuijze, Project Director of Duqm Refinery.

“Engaging with the local community and our stakeholders is an integral part of our operational strategy,” he added.

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Sohar Aluminium unveils new home for Al Noor Association SOHAR: In the presence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Said Al Kalbani, Minister of Social Development, and Sheikh Muhanna bin Saif Al Lamki, Governor of North Al Batinah, Sohar Aluminium, (SA) headed by its chief executive officer (CEO) Eng. Said bin Mohammed Al Masoudi along with Mohammad Ismail Al Balushi, chairman of Al Noor Association for the Blind, successfully unveiled a full-fledged 500 square metre premises for the Al Noor Association for the Blind in the Wilayat Sohar.

The event was attended by the walis and members of Al Shura Council, along with general managers from the private and public sectors in Al Batinah and members of the community, says a press release.

As part of the company’s steadfast commitment to enhancing the lives of each and every member of the community, the OMR120,000 building aims to improve the quality of life of more than 300 visually impaired individuals from Al Batinah North and South, Al Dhahirah as well as Al Buraimi governorates.

The state-of-the-art branch consists of a reception hall, multi-purpose hall, fully equipped computer labs for males and females, Braille printing facilities, meeting rooms, a library and a preparatory kitchen

The newly opened premises will offer a wealth of programmes to support the visually impaired, such as courses in using Braille typewriters, Braille sense displays and notetakers, comput-

er lessons, employment programmes as well as coordinating with the relevant authorities to ensure employment.

Furthermore, the Al Noor Association will also organise Haj and Umrah excursions from its new premises and provide Ramadan rations to those in need.

The state-of-the-art branch consists of a reception hall, multipurpose hall, fully equipped computer labs for males and females, Braille printing facilities, meeting rooms, a library and a preparatory kitchen and will also include offices for the president and vice president of the association’s board of directors and the association’s treasurer.

The Al Noor Association for the Blind in Sohar has been built with the intention of raising awareness about visually impaired people’s rights, and empowering them to improve their lives. It will go a long way towards instilling the visually impaired with the confidence and tools they need to lead productive lives and to this end, Sohar Aluminium is proud to continue playing an instrumental role in the communities it serves.

Delivering a top-class driving experience, Aurion sets a classy impression with elegant, luxurious and prestigious looks

MUSCAT: A popular choice in Oman, the Aurion is packed with many superior features.

Delivering a top-class driving experience, it sets a classy impression with elegant, luxurious and prestigious looks, says a press release.

The Aurion signifies high luxury and quality. Apart from its elegant looks, the cabin is spacious and the dashboard has an exclusive horizontal T-shaped design, which significantly enhances the feeling of prestige. The ‘quieter cabin experience’ is due to the reduced road and wind noise. The feeling of quality is further enhanced with

GOLD SPONSOR

Omzest sponsors Economic Forum 2015 MUSCAT: Omzest Group, one of Sultanate’s premier and diversified business conglomerates, was the gold sponsor of the recently held Economic Forum 2015. The two-day event took place recently under the patronage of Dr Ali bin Masoud Al Sunaidy, Minister of Commerce and Industry, says a press release.

The theme of the forum was ‘Investment: Opportunities and Challenges’ and the academic speakers and international experts focused on three main topics – Elements of Success of the Opportunities in the Investment Sectors, Investment Opportunities in the Food Industry and Investments in the Vital Sectors.

BUFFET DINNER

The main purpose of the Economic Forum was to deliberate on the role of private and public companies in the promotion and facilitation of investments in Oman.

The forum also highlighted the importance of encouraging investments in different sectors in the country. The Omzest Group too believes that diversified growth

should be the backbone of Oman’s continued economic progress.

Since its beginning in early 1970s, the group has contributed effectively to national development through economic diversification and human capability development under the leadership of Dr. Omar bin Abdul Muniem Al Zawawi, chairman, Omzest Group.

I N F O R M AT I V E S E S S I O N

Best Western Premier ISACA Muscat Chapter holds CPE programme welcomes Ramadan with exciting Iftar offer MUSCAT: Welcoming the holy month of Ramadan, Best Western Premier Muscat has invited guests to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan with family and friends over a delectable Iftar buffet selection of both Arabic and international favourites with rates from OMR 10++ per person.

The hotel’s Atrium all day dining restaurant offers an Iftar buffet priced at OMR 10++ per person, while exclusive Iftar dinner parties (indoor or outdoor catering) are also on offer with rates starting from OMR 12++ per person, subject to change depending on the guaranteed number of

guests, says a press release.

Best Western’s culinary team led by new executive chef Sajid Ahmed whips up a mouth-watering hot and cold mezze, soup, main courses, live stations and dessert.

Some of the dishes featured on the flexible menu packages include: Lamb Kabuli, Arabic Mixed Grill with Shish Tawooq, Shish Kabob and Beef Kofta, Chicken Wrap or Pasta Stations and desserts such as Mahlabbia, Kunafa and Umm Ali, among others.

Guests who book and confirm their private Iftar dinner parties from today until June 10, will enjoy a 10% discount.

MUSCAT: ISACA Muscat Chapter under the programme of mandatory Continuing Professional Education (CPE) recently conducted a CPE programme at PDO Oil & Gas Exhibition Auditorium on the topic ‘Optimising IT Spending Using COBIT Practices’.

Aamir Jamil, the presenter of the topic, explained the key challenges that IT is facing today, the importance of IT governance, its benefits and COBIT principles, enablers and framework for using in IT governance. He emphasised the need to understand the business strategy, identify the business pain points, choose priorities and improve governance to resolve the IT issues. Amir is an IT governance specialist at In-

formation Technology Authority (ITA) of Sultanate of Oman and has vast experience in developing IT strategic plans, policies and enterprise architectures and in implementing IT standards and frameworks. The programme started with a welcome address by Venugopal Hari, Muscat Chapter’s president, and anchored by Nagesh. Vote of thanks was proposed by Dilip.

ISACA provides practical guidance, benchmarks and other effective tools for all enterprises that use information systems.

Through its comprehensive guidance and services, ISACA defines the roles of information systems governance, security, audit and assurance professionals worldwide.

leather stitching and curved wood grain and silver accents that create a sense of functional beauty and high quality.

The ECO-meter allows drivers to recognise when they are driving in a fuel efficient and economical manner. Chrome accenting on the air conditioning vents and audio controls complete the sense of prestige that extends even to the smallest of details, including the audio switches on the steering wheel and a two seat position memory system. Available with 6-speed sequential automatic transmission mated to a 3.5 L V6 dual VVTiengine, the Aurion surges forward on an awesome 268 HP. Thin, long headlamps on either side of the impressive front grille and elevated hood lend it a majestic and powerful presence. The side of the Aurion is accented for a stronger appearance through a flared bottom section and an accented door-cross section. The Aurion’s 17-inch wheels enhance the character of the vehicle and provide a feeling of advanced luxury.

The car’s rear has also been redesigned, blending into the rear combination lamps for a greater

emphasis on width, with the bumper corners protruding outwards, creating a wide stable feeling and a ground-hugging stance.

Cutting-edge aerodynamic technology ensures that the Aurion experiences straight line stability, while the column mounted electric power steering mechanism allows an optimum level of vehicle control.

“Were the Aurion a human being, I would say that its VSC (vehicle stability control) plus TRC (traction control) technologies give it a ‘firmer footing’ while the HID (high intensity discharge headlamps) help it see better in the dark, by improving nighttime visibility,” said an enthusiast.

The Aurion offers utility features such as a parking assist system, which alerts the driver when approaching obstacles in blind spots. The Aurion also has classy, up-market audio system with a 6.1-inch display, a USB/AUX terminal for external audio devices, advanced bluetooth communication compatibility, keyless entry, dual-zone air conditioning and a back window power sunshade.

All specifications listed above are standard Toyota equipment.

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BMW celebrates 40 years of art cars The idea behind the BMW Art Cars was the brainchild of French racing driver and art enthusiast Hervé Poulain

MUNICH: Since a BMW 3.0 CSL painted by Alexander Calder lined up for the Le Mans 24-hour race exactly 40 years ago, the BMW Art Car Collection has fascinated both art and design enthusiasts as well as car and technology fans all around the world.

Ever since the invention of the motor car, artists have drawn inspiration from the thrill of speed, from the phenomenon of mobility and from racing cars as examples of modern sculpture, says a press release.

Since 1975, BMW Art Cars have

been a central feature of this story.

The idea behind the BMW Art Cars was the brainchild of French racing driver and art enthusiast Hervé Poulain: 40 years ago, Poulain asked artist friend Alexander Calder to apply his creative talents to his race car. Together with Jochen Neerpasch, then BMW Motorsport Director, the first BMW Art Car was born – and it became an instant crowd’s favourite on the race track.

Since then, new additions to the BMW Art Car Collection have been

made over the years at irregular intervals, with unique works of art from artists such as Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, David Hockney and Jeff Koons.

“The BMW Art Cars provide an exciting landmark at the interface where cars, technology, design, art and motor sport meet,” reflected Maximilian Schöberl, senior vice president, Corporate and Governmental Affairs, BMW Group.

“The 40-year history of our ‘rolling sculptures’ is as unique as

the artists who created them. The BMW Art Cars are an essential element and core characteristic of our global cultural engagement,” he added.

The anniversary celebrations got under way with exhibitions in Hong Kong, at the Centre Pompidou, the BMW Museum and the Concorso d’Eleganza at Lake Como, where the first four BMW Art Cars by Alexander Calder, Frank Stella, Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol, plus the M3 GT2

COMPETITION

created by Jeff Koons, were all on display. Further presentations are set to follow later in 2015 in New York, Miami and Shanghai.

The group of 17 artists who have designed BMW models so far since 1975 is very international, and interest in the “rolling sculptures” has spread all around the world. Several cars are usually on display at the BMW Museum in Munich, the home of the BMW Art Cars, as part of its permanent collection. The remaining BMW Art Cars are travelling the globe – to art fairs in Los Angeles, London and Hong Kong, as well as exhibitions at the Louvre, the Guggenheim and the Museum of Contemporary Art Shanghai.

To date, many of the BMW Art Cars have not only turned heads in museums, but have also – in their earlier life – done so on the race track: Alexander Calder (BMW 3.0 CSL, 1975), Frank Stella (BMW 3.0 CSL, 1976), Roy Lichtenstein (BMW 320 Group 5, 1977), Andy Warhol (BMW M1 Group 4, 1979), Ernst Fuchs (BMW 635CSi, 1982), Robert Rauschenberg (BMW 635CSi, 1986), Michael Jagamara Nelson (BMW M3 Group A, 1989),

Ken Done (BMW M3 Group A, 1989), Matazo Kayama (BMW 535i, 1990), César Manrique (BMW 730i, 1990), A. R. Penck (BMW Z1, 1991), Esther Mahlangu (BMW 525i, 1991), Sandro Chia (BMW M3 GTR, 1992), David Hockney (BMW 850CSi, 1995), Jenny Holzer (BMW V12 LMR, 1999), Ólafur Elíasson (BMW H2R, 2007) and Jeff Koons (BMW M3 GT2, 2010).

The BMW Group would also like to introduce the 40th anniversary of the BMW Art Car Collection into the public sphere through social media. While exploring the vision of each artist for their car on its social media channels, the company also wants to ask people what the ‘art of the car’ means to them. To track the content, it will be shared under the hashtag #BMWArtCar. In 2014, Hatje Cantz published the first comprehensive publication on the BMW Art Cars.

The 200-page book is richly illustrated and reviews the history of this extraordinary collection of cars from its beginnings in 1975.

It uses portraits and interviews to shed more light on the various artists’ themes and approaches.

D I S T R I B U T I O N PA R T N E R

Mercedes successfully drives gold on social media MUSCAT: ‘Oman Sees Gold’, a competition run by MercedesBenz Oman to celebrate the gold standard set by the award winning S-Class, concluded successfully with over 200 entries submitted across all social media platforms, says a press release. “‘#OmanSeesGold’ was created as a tribute to the continued success and unwavering commitment to excellence of our iconic Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the region’s luxury vehicle of choice and the World Luxury Car of the Year 2015,” noted Clive Hammond, CEO of Zawawi Trading Company-Automotive.

“The response to the competition has been fantastic and, as we expected, the gold-wrapped SClass had real star appeal, drawing crowds across the selected locations around Muscat. Many Mercedes-Benz fans were keen to scoop the prize of a weekend with

the award-winning vehicle that they entered multiple photos.”

Randomly selected from over 200 entries on social media, the three lucky winners, Moayad Al Zadjali, Abbas Al Essa and Jamila Al Balushi, will get an amazing opportunity to enjoy the goldwrapped engineering masterpiece for a weekend.

Having spotted the sensational gold S-Class on its journey around

Muscat, residents and visitors were able to enter the competition by simply posting pictures of the car on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook with the hashtag #OmanSeesGold, having first liked or followed Mercedes-Benz Oman social media platforms. The stops included popular spots around the capital such as Almouj Golf, The Walk, Muscat Grand Mall, City Cinema, Shatti Al Qurum,

Beach One Building, Madinat Qaboos, Royal Opera House, Jawharet Al Shatti, Modern College of Business and Science, beach road in Shatti Al Qurum and Seeb corniche.

Strong, powerful and majestic, the S-Class Mercedes-Benz is a car created without compromise in style, safety, performance or technology, offering an exceptional blend of power and efficiency.

Successive generations of S-Class Saloon have raised the bar for automotive design and engineering but this latest incarnation exceeds all expectations. With its engineering priorities of ‘Intelligent Drive’, ‘Efficient Technology’ and ‘Essence of Luxury’, it is not just at the forefront of new technological development for Mercedes-Benz but for the automotive industry as a whole. Flawless in every respect, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class truly defines luxury and power.

AWA R E N E S S C A M PA I G N

VLCC wellness camp gets overwhelming response MUSCAT: The VLCC wellness check camp entitled, ‘Transforming Lives’ received overwhelming response from the public.

The 10-day free camp held from May 15-24 at Muscat Grand Mall offered free wellness check for public. Visitors were given body composition analysis along with free trial services to experience the premier wellness brand, says a press release. ‘‘More than 300 people visited our stall at Grand Mall, and 180 people registered names to do further wellness check at our centres.

VLCC Oman has been conducting wellness camps in association with various organisations and entities since our inception in Muscat in 2008, and we would continue to conduct such programmes throughout the country,’’ a senior VLCC official said.

Visitors received special VLCC booklets on healthy living, obesity and healthy recipes. As part of the seventh anniversary, VLCC is offering special discount on all its treatments. Special consultations, body composition analysis, skin and hair analysis are being organised at the VLCC centres in Qurum and Al Mawaleh.

The acceptance of VLCC’s scientific weight management pro-

grammes and revolutionary skin and hair care treatments is reflected in its reputation as the premier slimming, beauty, and fitness brand in the Middle East VLCC with over 10 million satisfied customers worldwide. ‘‘It is VLCC’s commitment to create confidence among people on how to develop a healthy life style, especially on eating habits.

VLCC is the world’s first slimming, fitness and beauty corporate to get

the ISO 9001:2000 quality certification. It is also the first company of its kind in the world to get the SA: 8000 (Social Accountability) certification for implementing global corporate social responsibility standards. The VLCC Group has also been awarded the ISO: 14001 certification for meeting global environment safety norms, again a world’s first for an organisation of its kind,’’ says VLCC. Guided by the vision of “Trans-

forming Lives”, the VLCC Group seeks to urge self transformation, spread happiness and imbibe every individual with wellness for life.

VLCC is widely recognised world over for its holistic, scientific and completely natural weight-management practices and therapeutic beauty solutions addressing the mind and body.

Today, VLCC has operations in 121 cities across 16 countries, employing nearly 6,000 worldwide.

Total appoints Diamond Wealth as distributor of Elf products in Oman MUSCAT: Total Marketing Middle East (TMME), a wholly owned subsidiary of Total SA, has appointed Diamond Wealth Trading Company as official distributor for its Elf brand of lubricants in Oman.

The Elf’s quality is based on a very strong experience in motorsports, being known for more than 150 Formula 1 victories, says a press release.

The decision of Total to appoint Diamond Wealth Trading as the new distribution partner for the potential Omani market was based on their credible presence and infrastructure in the region. Currently they are the sole distributors of tyre brands, Double Coin and JK tyres, as well as represent Lloyds Register Oman.

Commenting on this decision, David Kalife, Managing Director, TMME said,’ Diamond Wealth Trading is a well-established company, belonging to the well known Shanfari family of Oman, who are also the leaders in providing logistics and oil field solutions through their group companies. Efficient customer service and a hard working sales team who well understand the range of our products were the key factors that influenced our decision to appoint them as our new distributor.”

Also present at the signing ceremony was Sheikh Tarik Abdul Aziz Ali Al Shanfari, chairman of the Group.

“We started this company with a vision to promote qual-

The decision of Total to appoint Diamond Wealth Trading as the new distribution partner for the potential Omani market was based on their credible presence and infrastructure in the region

ity products and services to the customers of Oman. Through this agreement, we shall further enhance the experience of our valued customers, by offering them world class Elf products with proven measurable benefits with regard to longevity and engine protection. Buying an Elf product means having the assurance and reliability of an established brand,” said Sheikh Tarik Al Shanfari.

This distribution agreement will allow Total to further penetrate the retail and commercial segment in Oman.

S AV I N G S S C H E M E

ahlibank announces MyHassad daily winners MUSCAT: ahlibank announced the names of the MyHassad daily prize draw winners.

Mansoor Salim Said Al Bahri from Khuwair branch, Khalfan Salim Nasser Al Salmi from Ibra branch, Ahmed Nasser Saleem Al Qasmi from Ibra Branch, Faisal Yousuf Salim Al Habsi from Khoudh branch and Shoaeb Abdulrahman and Benazir Shoaeb from Ghubra branch were the lucky winners of OMR1,000 each for the week, says a press release.

MyHassad savings account continues to successfully satisfy the existing customers and attract new ones.

MyHassad Saving Scheme was introduced in July 2008 as an extension of the bank’s tradition of product innovation. Opening MyHassad Saving account is simple and easy.

Customers need only to open their MyHassad account with OMR100 for their chance to win OMR1,000 in the next working

day’s draw hence their chance to “open today and win tomorrow” continues.

Further enhancements in March 2009 allow customers to participate in the OMR10,000 monthly draw, by maintaining a minimum OMR250 during the month.

Customers can also transfer their salaries to MyHassad saving account and will be eligible to enter in the daily, monthly draw as per the balance maintained.

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RE-ELECTED BLATTER BLASTS US, EUROPE Fifa President Sepp Blatter came out fighting on Saturday as he began his fifth term in charge of Fifa, implying that the US timed the announcement of a major corruption probe to try to scupper his re-election bid.. >C6

Djokovic on course for Nadal clash, Murray marches ahead Djokovic hurtled towards a potential quarterfinal clash against Nadal with an immaculate 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 defeat of Kokkinakis, while Murray gave Kyrgios a lesson in match craft in a 6-4, 6-2, 6-3 victory

PARIS: Top seed Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray slapped down a pair of Australian upstarts at the French Open but Rafa Nadal showed he is still the man to beat as he powered into the last 16 of the French Open on Saturday.

Teenager Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios are touted as the next big things and pack plenty of box-office appeal but the gulf between brash raw talent and seasoned Grand Slam champions was evident in the Paris sunshine.

Djokovic, bidding for his maiden French Open title, hurtled towards a potential quarterfinal clash against defending champion Na-

IN FULL FLOW: Serbia’s Novak Djokovic returns the ball to Australia’s Thanasi Kokkinakis during the men’s third round of French Open at

the Roland Garros in Paris on Saturday. – AFP

dal with an immaculate 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 defeat of 19-year-old wildcard Kokkinakis.

Kyrgios, a year older than his compatriot, has already made deep inroads at Grand Slams, notably when stunning Nadal at Wimble-

don last year, and his match-up with Britain’s Murray had the potential to be firecracker.

No-nonsense Murray There were plenty of sparks and some outrageous winners from the

FINDING FORM

son in match craft, 6-4, 6-2, 6-3 to set up a meeting with Jeremy Chardy, one of five Frenchmen into the last 16 which equals the hosts’ best showing in the professional era.

Kyrgios, dressed in shocking pink and blue and donning a base-

H A P P Y T O P L AY

Kvitova and Stephens storm into last 16 stage PARIS: Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova powered into the last 16 at the French Open on Saturday after early round struggles at Roland Garros, while Sloane Stephens revived flagging American hopes.

Kvitova, the fourth seed from the Czech Republic, finally found her form to outplay Romanian Irina-Camelia Begu 6-3, 6-2 in just 58 minutes, taking the last five games at a canter.

That was in stark contrast to her first two rounds that saw her grind out six sets and spend just four minutes short of five hours on the court.

“I think it was for sure the best match which I played here so far, so I’m really glad for it,” Kvitova said.

“I’m glad that I didn’t forget many things from my game and it’s still there. I felt better today, for sure. It’s the third round which I didn’t pass here last year, so I was really motivated by it.”

Next up for Kvitova, who also won Wimbledon in 2011, but who has only managed a single semifinal in Paris in 2012, will be a fourth round tie against Timea Bacsinszky of Switzerland who upset 16th seeded American Madison Keys 6-4, 6-2.

Stephens, clawing her way back up the world rankings after a bad wrist injury sidelined her late last year, saw off Bulgaria’s Tsevtana Pironkova 6-4, 6-1, winning eight of the last nine games to clinch the victory.

Her reward for that is likely to be a fourth round clash with top seed and compatriot Serena Williams.

“I am playing really solid and happy to be back in the fourth round at the French Open. I love clay and these are the best claycourts in the world,” Stephens said.

Also through to the last 16 in early play was Italian Sara Errani, losing finalist in 2012, who gained revenge on Andrea Petkovic of Germany 6-3, 6-3. Petkovic ousted Errani at Roland Garros last year at the quarterfinal stage before losing in the semis.

There was disappointment though for another Italian, 2010 Roland Garros champion Francesca Schiavone, who lost 7-5, 6-4 to

20-year-old Kyrgios, but for every thunderous forehand there was a crass error as the 29th seed, hampered by a sore elbow that took the edge off his serve, flattered to deceive. While Kyrgios played the showman, Murray gave him a les-

ball cap, provided some colourful language and smashed a ball out of the stadium, but did offer one magical moment, a winning lob executed from between his legs that had the crowd roaring its approval.

That was a rare highlight, though, and he was easily tamed by the no-nonsense Murray.

“You have to expect the unexpected against him,” Murray, who has now won 13 consecutive claycourt matches and faces Frenchman Jeremy Chardy next, told reporters.

“I feel like I have done a good job of kind of weathering the storms, he always has some periods in the matches where he’s on fire and hits some unbelievable shots.”

Sixth seed Nadal spoke of the old “positive feelings” returning as he outclassed unseeded Russian Andrey Kuznetsov 6-1, 6-3, 6-2, emulating Djokovic as he reached the second week without dropping a set.

Should he beat Jack Sock, the last surviving American in the next round, and Djokovic beats home hope Richard Gasquet, then a repeat of the final in two of the last three years will be played out in the quarterfinals.

“There is no doubt that it was not my worst first week here at Roland Garros, because sometimes I have had quite difficult first weeks,” Nadal, who turns 29 next week, said after taking his French Open record to 69-1.

Ninth seed Marin Cilic continued his low-key progress, the bigserving Croat crushing Argentina’s Leonardo Mayer 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 to set up a last-16 clash against David Ferrer or Simone Bolelli. - Reuters

FELT BETTER: CPetra Kvitova of the Czech Republic celebrates after defeating Romania’s Irina-Camelia Begu during their third round match at the French Open on Saturday. – AP/PTI

Andreea Mitu of Romania. Ranked 100th in the world, Mitu is playing in her first French Open and her three wins in Paris this week were her first at Grand Slam level.

Belgian next up for Mitu Her next opponent, with a quarterfinal slot at stake will be 93rdranked Alison Van Uytvanck of Belgium, who ended the hopes of France’s Kristina Mladenovic 6-4, 6-1.

Van Uytvanck was 1-5 in Grand Slam matches coming into Roland Garros, but like Mitu she has been able to benefit in her quarter of the draw from the first round defeat of sixth seed Eugenie Bouchard at the hands of Mladenovic.

“It was not easy because she is a very good player and I was very nervous in the beginning,” said Van Uytvanck.

“It’s a big dream come true. I was happy enough winning in the first round and now being in the fourth round I can’t believe it.

“Maybe I am the favourite in the fourth round. I think she (Mitu) is very confident. She’s a solid player. She is a big hitter. We have nothing to lose.”

Saturday’s action at Roland Garros, completing the last 16 lineup for the women, saw four American players in action led by two-time winner Williams.

The bottom half of the draw completed third round matches on Friday giving an all-European lineup headed by second seed and defending champion Maria Sharapova of Russia.

Williams and Azarenka have played each other 18 times with Williams well ahead at 15-3, but the 19-time Grand Slam winner looked out of sorts in the second round, needing three tough sets to see off the challenge of unheralded German Anna-Lena Friedsam.

The defeat of Keys was followed by another American loss, Irina Falconi going down 6-1, 6-4 to Julia Goerges of Germany. - AFP

Federer wary of dangerman Monfils PARIS: Roger Federer will need to snap a two-match losing streak against French showman Gael Monfils on Sunday if he wants to stay in the hunt for a second French Open title.

The elastic-limbed Monfils has caused Federer trouble throughout his career and will be full of confidence after beating the Swiss maestro in Monte Carlo and before that in the Davis Cup final last year.

World No. 2 Federer is yet to drop a set in three rounds at Roland Garros this year, but knows he will have

to be at his best to subdue Monfils in a standout last-16 clash, especially in front of a Parisian crowd.

Third time lucky “I’m always happy to play Gael,” Federer, who beat Monfils in the quarter-finals here the year he won the French Open for the only time in 2009, told reporters.

“He’s in Paris, he’s at home. He’s very strong. He loves these kind of matches. So I know the danger. I know his performance.”

Monfils, the 13th seed, will be

hoping it is third time lucky on Sunday having twice lost to Federer at Roland Garros and believes the crowd could make a difference.

“Some matches Roger has killed me,” the 28-year-old Monfils, who was born in Paris, said.

“Roger always wants to dictate the match the way he wants, but I really try to change it and put Roger out of his comfort zone.

“I saw it the most in the U.S. Open, Roger was very unhappy when the crowd is not behind him. That will help me a lot, for sure.” - Reuters

C2

SU N DAY, MAY 3 1, 2015

SPORTS DESPITE ‘SUICIDE BOMB’

Zimbabwe team to continue with Pakistan tour

LEADING SCORER: England’s Alastair Cook plays a shot during the second day of their second Test match against New Zealand

at Headingley in Leeds on Saturday. – Reuters

Kiwis rally after Lyth’s ton and Cook’s record Cook went past Graham Gooch’s record haul of 8,900 Test runs for England shortly after lunch and made 75 in an opening partnership of 177 with Lyth who hit 107 runs

LEEDS: Adam Lyth upstaged his captain Alastair Cook by scoring his maiden Test century to lift England to 253 for five at the close on the second day of the second Test against New Zealand on Saturday.

Cook went past Graham Gooch’s record haul of 8,900 Test runs for England shortly after lunch and made 75 in an opening partnership of 177 with Lyth who hit 107 in his second appearance.

New Zealand fought back strongly in the final session, however, picking up five wickets to leave the match finely poised with England 97 runs behind.

MAIDEN CENTURY: Adam Lyth

Cook and Lyth started cautiously compared with the touring side’s flamboyant stroke-play that lit up Headingley on Thursday and England went to lunch on 54 for no wicket. Left-hander Cook drove Tim Southee to the cover boundary to go past Gooch’s record and immediately knuckled down in search of his 28th Test century.

Lyth struck a few crisp boundaries through the off side and his fifty included seven fours.

Cook soon followed him to a half-century, carving his ninth four over the slips, and the pair looked completely in control on 163 for no wicket at tea.

Captain Cook was then trapped

lbw by off-spinner Mark Craig, misjudging a straight delivery and being given out after a review.

His departure seemed to unsettle Lyth who played the ball on to his stumps without dislodging the bails on 90.

The compact left-hander spent 40 minutes in the nervous 90s before striking successive fours off Craig to reach his hundred.

Lyth celebrated wildly in front of his home Yorkshire crowd, punching the air and acknowledging the warm applause.

Gary Ballance, who failed twice in the first test, took 18 balls to get off the mark but soon began to pepper the boundary with trademark square cuts.

Lyth, looking weary, was run out when his partner called him for an impossible single and Ballance, on 29, was bowled by Trent Boult with the second new ball.

Joe Root edged Southee to wicketkeeper Luke Ronchi for one and Ben Stokes, on six, then clipped Boult to Craig at slip in the penultimate over. Ian Bell (12 not out) and Jos Buttler (six not out) will resume in the morning.

Earlier, the New Zealand tail wagged merrily after resuming on 297 for eight, adding 53 runs in a lively half hour.

Stuart Broad took the last two wickets to complete figures of five for 109 and Craig finished unbeaten on 41 in a total of 350. - Reuters

SCOREBOARD

New Zealand 1st innings M. Guptill c Bell b Anderson 0 T. Latham c Root b Broad 84 K. Williamson c Buttler b Anderson 0 R. Taylor lbw Broad 20 B. McCullum c Wood b Stokes 41 BJ Watling b Wood 14 L. Ronchi c Anderson b Broad 88 M. Craig not out 41 T. Southee c Lyth b Wood 1 M. Henry c Buttler b Broad 27 T. Boult c Lyth b Broad 15 Extras (b-4, lb-14, nb-1) 19 Total (all out, 72.1 overs) 350 Fall of wickets: 1-2 , 2-2, 3-68, 4-123, 5-144, 6-264, 7-265, 8-281, 9-310.

Bowling: Anderson 13-3-43-2; Broad 17.10-109-5 (nb-1); Wood 14-4-62-2; Stokes 17-4-70-1; Ali 11-3-48-0.

England 1st innings A. Lyth run out 107 A. Cook lbw Craig 75 G. Ballance b Boult 29 I. Bell not out 12 J. Root c Ronchi b Southee 1 B. Stokes c Craig b Boult 6 J. Buttler not out 6 Extras (b-14, w-3) 17 Total (5 wkts, 88 overs) 253 Fall of wickets: 1-177, 2-215, 3-238, 4-239, 5-247.

Bowling: Boult 23-4-63-2 (w-1); Southee 23-4-57-1 (w-1); Henry 18-4-76-0 (w-1); Craig 22-10-38-1; Williamson 2-1-5-0.

Umpires: S Ravi (IND), Rod Tucker (AUS). TV umpire: Marais Erasmus (RSA). Match referee: David Boon (AUS)

LAHORE: Zimbabwe on Saturday said it will continue its cricket tour of Pakistan despite an apparent suicide bombing leaving two people dead outside the stadium during a match between the two sides.

Friday’s explosion — which a minister said was a suicide attack, though police insist was an accident — threatened to torpedo cricket-mad Pakistan’s first series on home soil since an attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in March 2009.

The blast, which did not affect the match itself, triggered a news blackout in Pakistani media and came despite heavy security in and around Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.

The visitors’ decision to play on means the two sides will face off in the third and final One-day International at the same venue on Sunday.

Pakistan has so far won all of the matches in the series — two Twenty20 meets and two earlier One-day Internationals (ODIs).

“The Zimbabwe tour of Pakistan ends tomorrow,” Zimbabwe Cricket said in a statement on Saturday.

It said that Lahore police met with the Zimbabwe team, and told them that “what occurred was a cylinder blast which killed two people, and that their forensics experts are examining remains from the explosion to ascertain the cause”.

A senior city police official “assured the travelling party of continued safety on the tour, and said the fact that the blast occurred outside their red zone means that the security measures put in place for the tour were not breached”.

News blacked out Lahore police have insisted that the incident was caused by an accidental blast, initially attributing it to a transformer explosion before later saying a auto rickshaw’s gas cylinder was to blame.

Pakistan’s information minister, however, said on Saturday that the explosion was in fact a suicide bomb.

“The suicide bomber failed to enter the stadium due to the bravery of our police,” Pervez Rashid told private broadcaster Geo.

The visiting team’s decision to play on means the two sides will face off in the third and final Oneday International at the same venue on Sunday. Pakistan has so far won all of the matches in the series — two Twenty20 Internationals and two earlier One-day International matches The attack took place about 1.5 kilometres (one mile) from the venue at “the outer security cordon of the stadium”, Rashid said.

News of the explosion was blacked out in Pakistani media until the conclusion of the match in order to prevent panic, a decision Rashid praised in his remarks to Geo. First tour since 2009 Security has been ratcheted up for the series with around 4,000 policemen guarding the stadium itself, and a further 2,000 along the route from the Zimbabwe team hotel to the venue.

Zimbabwe’s tour is the first by a Test-playing nation to Pakistan since the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore left eight police and civilians dead and seven players wounded.

Pakistan have in recent years played their “home” matches at neutral venues such as the United Arab Emirates, resulting in financial losses amounting to $120 million, while several top-flight younger players were never able to experience the lifting effect of home crowds and pitches. - AFP

FOOTBALL

Arsenal down Villa to retain FA Cup LONDON: Arsenal retained the FA Cup in majestic style as their 4-0 demolition of Aston Villa in Saturday’s final made history for the Gunners and their manager Arsene Wenger.

Wenger’s side swept Villa aside with a swashbuckling display sparked by Theo Walcott’s first half opener and illuminated by a sublime strike from Alexis Sanchez to double their lead after the interval.

Historic day Per Mertesacker and substitute Olivier Giroud also got on the scoresheet for the rampant north Londoners to seal Arsenal’s second trophy in 12 months with the biggest margin of victory in an FA Cup final since 1994.

It was a suitably memorable performance on a historic day which saw Wenger become the first manager in the post-War period to win the competition six times, a tally matched by only

George Ramsey, who won the last of his with Villa in 1920.

There was another significant slice of history for Arsenal as they lifted the famous old trophy for the 12th time, moving them ahead of Manchester United as the most successful club in the competition.

Wenger insisted this week that he doesn’t know where he keeps his medals, but he now has a ninth major honour of his 19year reign at Arsenal to add to the collection. Arsenal had conceded twice in a disastrous opening eight minutes against Hull in last year’s final.

But there was no sign of such a fraught start this time as Arsenal quickly established their smooth passing rhythm to pin Villa deep inside their own half.

Villa, appearing in their first FA Cup final since 2000, seemed completely bewildered by the speed and movement of Arsenal’s attacks. - AFP

S U N DAY, MAY 31 , 2 0 1 5

C3

SPORTS Busy schedule ahead for Oman hockey Oman will take part in the Arab Nations

We will soon decide on hosting of World League Round 1 and Junior Asia Cup participation

Indoor Hockey Cup next month, while participation in the Junior Asia Cup and hosting Round 1 of the Hockey World

Mohammed Ridha

League 2015 is also

OHA General Secretary

on the cards

T.K. MOHANDOSS

sportseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman hockey is set for a busy schedule starting next month as the national teams will take part in many tournaments and also play host to FIH Hockey World League Round 1 once again.

Confirming this to Times Sport was Oman Hockey Association General Secretary Mohammed Ridha Al Lawati, who added that a plan is also being chalked out for the veterans team, which successfully took part in a tournament in

Egypt recently. Internationally Oman appears to be a busy contender with their latest FIH rankings having jumped to 21st two places up from the previous 23rd.

However they remain sixth in Asia.

This however, is not reflecting on the domestic tournaments where, for some time now, we have been witnessing lesser number of clubs playing the game.

However, Mohammed Ridha is confident that the game will recover soon and also praised the clubs in the Dhofar region to have kept the flag flying.

The OHA is on the right path, but Ridha Taqi minced no words in

criticising the sports clubs for the poor state of hockey in the country.

“If we are finding only six to eight teams playing hockey now, the clubs must take the blame,” he said.

Qatar tournament The OHA general secretary, meanwhile, confirmed the participation of the national team in the forthcoming indoor tournament in Qatar.

According to information available on the Asian Hockey Federation website, Qatar Hockey Federation will be hosting two international tournaments from June 10 to 13 — the first Arab Nations Indoor Hockey Cup and the Friendship

Hockey Festival in Doha.

The Arab Nations Indoor Hockey Cup will be the first major indoor event being held in the Arab world and brings together hosts Qatar, who recently participated in the Indoor Asia Cup in Kazakhstan, as well as Oman, Sudan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The Friendship Hockey Festival features three teams, the Air India Maharajahs, the Knights of Arabia and the Pakistan International Airlines Sultans and is considered a pilot event with a view to developing an annual festival event featuring teams from around the globe.

This year’s edition already

boasts some names well-known in hockey circles, with former India captain and forward Dhanraj Pillay taking on the coach role with the Air India Maharajahs, mentored by Arjuna Award winner Jagbir Singh.

The PIA Sultans will be coached

by Olympian Mohamed Irfaan and mentored by Shahbaz Ahmed. The Knights of Arabia team, which consists of Qatari players will be coached by former Sri Lanka national coach Mohamed Mulafer and mentored by Qatar national coach Maggid.

Alongside the tournaments, an AHF indoor hockey coaching course will be held from 10 to 13 June 2015, with 15 coaches from Iran, Qatar, Sudan, UAE and Oman participating. Meanwhile, Mohammed Ridha also confirmed that Oman will also nominate umpires for the Qatar event.

Junior Asia Cup 2015 Oman, who finished second behind hosts Bangladesh in the 4th Men’s Junior AHF Cup last year, had qualified for the 8th Men’s Junior Asia Cup 2015 to be held in Kuantan, Malaysia from November 14 to 22.

Mohammed Ridha confirmed that Oman will take part in the tournament but a final decision will be taken only after the OHA board meeting, which will be held before National Hockey League final.

“During the meeting we will dis-

SAILING

cuss on when to host the Hockey World League Round 1 and also decide on participation Junior Asia Cup in November,” he said.

“We will also discuss on the possible participation of our veterans team in Malaysia or South Africa,” he added.

Last time Oman had hosted the World Hockey League in September 2014 and this time it is likely to be around the same time as the WHL can also help prepare the national team for the Junior Asian Cup. The teams playing in the Junior Asian Cup are Bangladesh, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Oman and Pakistan.

“We will also plan on preparatory camps for our national team which is being coached by Oliver Krutz. There is a possibility of an external camp probably in Europe,” he added, saying all programmes will be revealed after the Qatar tournament.

Fixtures: June 10: Arab Indoor Cup — Qatar vs Sudan; Oman vs UAE; Friendship festival — Air India Maharajas vs Arabian Knights June 11: Arab Indoor Cup — UAE v Sudan; Qatar v Oman; Friendship Festival — PIA Sultans v Air India Maharajas June 12: Arab Indoor Cup —Sudan v Oman; Qatar v UAE; Friendship Festival —Arabian Knights v PIA Sultans June 13: Arab Indoor Cup — Bronze Medal Match; Final; Friendship Festival — Final.

I TA L I A N G P

‘Sultanate of Oman’ takes centre stage in Austria with awe-inspiring teamwork

Iannone gets maiden pole at home GP

MUSCAT: Oman Sail’s GC32 Sultanate of Oman, supported by the Ministry of Tourism and EFG Bank Monaco, took centre stage on Lake Traunsee in Austria on Friday with another show of awe-inspiring teamwork that puts them at the top of the leaderboard halfway through the inaugural Bullitt GC32 Racing Tour.

The wind once again was light and fickle which called for expert judgement and communication among the teams but it was Leigh McMillan and his scratch crew on Sultanate of Oman, who judged best, to finish on the podium in each of the five races completed, adding two further outright wins to their tally from day one.

This strong performance gave them a six-point lead over second placed Alinghi and according to America’s Cup sailor Alister Richardson, who is a foiling expert after racing AC45s for Italian team Luna Rossa, the success can be put down quite simply to teamwork.

“We all know each other really well and although this is the first time we are racing together as a group, we work really well as a team,” he said. “If you know each other well, you don’t have to talk as much - especially where Pete Greenhalgh and I are concerned. I kind of know what he is thinking.

“Obviously we are not happy all the time with our manoeuvres but we are not getting frustrated, just trying to stay nice and relaxed while always learning and trying to improve.

“The secret today was to stay calm and not chase what other boats were doing. Our aim was to keep our heads out of the boat and sail towards wind we could see, rather than chase wind that had been.

“We did a really nice job of that today and even at times when we were struggling, we stayed calm and took one boat at a time and sailed well.”

Oman’s Nasser Al Mashari, the Sultanate of Oman’s bowman is an Extreme 40 expert but has spent just a few days on the GC32

LUCO DI MUGELLO: Italian rider Andrea Iannone will start from pole position for the first time in his MotoGP career when he lines up for the Italian Grand Prix on Sunday.

The 25-year-old Ducati rider — who rode with a dislocated shoulder in the previous race in France a fortnight ago — posted the fastest time in qualifying at Mugello on Saturday to record his ninth career pole spot in all categories.

Spain’s two-time world champion Jorge Lorenzo — bidding for a third successive win this season — will start second on the grid and Iannone’s teammate and compatriot Andrea Dovizioso third.

Another Italian, legend Valentino Rossi leads the overall standings after five races — he will start in eighth spot.

Lorenzo — who has eaten into teammate Rossi’s lead in the championship with his victories in Spain and then France — had set the track alight in the morning practice session.

The 28-year-old Spaniard broke the track record for one lap with a scorching effort of one minute and 46.617 seconds, bettering the previous mark set in 2013 by Honda’s Dani Pedrosa by more than half a second.

Honda had a poor day with two-time defending champion Marc Marquez facing a real challenge to get his season going, after a series of listless performances, as for only the second time in his MotoGP career he failed to make the top 10 riders final session.

He will start the race only in 13th position.

The other two races will see British riders start from pole with Sam Lowes, riding a Speed Up, at the head of affairs in Moto2 — his second ever pole position — and compatriot and championship leader Danny Kent on a Honda in Moto3. - AFP

SPECTACULAR: Oman Sail’s ‘Sultanate of Oman’ GC32 boat pictured on second day of the Bullitt GC32 Racing Tour in Australia. – Supplied photo

and has high expectations of what might be achieved, given a little more time on the boat.

“Our second day was even better than the first but we still need practice on this boat because it is still new to us,” he said. “Hopefully we can do even better on the third day and keep the momentum up but it has been a very good day.”

Oman Sail CEO David Graham is visiting the team in Lake Traunsee and went ‘flying’ for the first time this afternoon onboard Sul-

tanate of Oman – he admitted to being blown away by the boat, the class and the GC32 team.

“It was an incredible experience. The Sultanate of Oman team was amazing – with a lot of experience and expertise from different campaigns but all fitting and working well together,” he said. Oman Sail’s decision to race the new Bullitt GC32 Racing Tour was looking like a good one, he added, on a number of counts.

“We have always aimed to be

at the cutting edge of the sport and we are doing that over time.

Look at what we are doing on the MOD70 with the speed records and then the Extreme 40s with The Wave, Muscat and Oman Air. “The GC32 opportunity came up and it seemed like the logical thing to do. It is very impressive what the class has done in a short space of time and the venues linked in with the Ministry of Tourism’s key markets so it was almost tailor made.

“We were also able to use our

tried and tested Extreme 40 team and they have been really helpful in making it happen so it’s a new thing for us but everyone is very excited and motivated.”

Rankings (after Day 2): 1. Sultanate of Oman 17, 2. Alinghi 23, Team Engie 27, 4. Spindrift Racing 27, 5. Armin Strom Sailing Team 41.

Crew onboard “Sultanate of Oman” GC32: Leigh McMillan, Nasser Al Mashari, Glenn Ashby, Alister Richardson and Pete Greenhalgh.

C4

SU N DAY, MAY 3 1, 2015

SPORTS

Rio hangs up his boots Capped 81 times he played at three World

I will always regard the 81 times that I played for England, with immense pride. These are all treasured memories that will last a lifetime

Cups for England, but it was at club level where he enjoyed the most success winning six English Premier League titles and the Champions League during his 12 seasons at the heart

Rio Ferdinand

of United’s defence

Former England captain LONDON: Former England captain Rio Ferdinand, at one stage the world’s most expensive defender, announced his retirement from football on Saturday.

The 36-year-old former Manchester United stalwart, whose wife Rebecca Ellison died on May 1 following a battle with breast cancer, spent last season at QPR. Speaking to BT sport Ferdinand said: “After 18 years as a professional footballer, I now feel it’s the right time for me to retire from the game that I love,” he explained.

“This season I really found out that it was time to hang the boots up and get back in the house and watch other people play the game.”

In his prime for United, Ferdinand was known as a graceful player, who guided attackers away

from the danger zone, rarely making a rough challenge.

His poise on the ball and efficient distribution of it made him a prize asset.

Paul Scholes, former United and England teammate heaped praise on Ferdinand: “He was a great player, without a doubt the best centre-half I ever played with. I would say for a time as well he was the best centre-half in the world.”

Capped 81 times he played at three World Cups for England, but it was at club level where he enjoyed the most success winning six English Premier League titles and the Champions League during his 12 seasons at the heart of Manchester United’s defence.

“I will always regard the 81

times that I played for England, with immense pride. These are all treasured memories that will last a lifetime,” Ferdinand told BT. Huge influence Ferdinand began his career with West Ham before an £18 million move to Leeds where his form was such that Alex Ferguson paid a then record fee for a defender of £30 million (41 million euros) to bring him to Manchester United in 2002.

Ferdinand sees that switch as the making of him, because of the huge influence Ferguson would have on his development.

“His greatest accomplishment in my eyes will always be how he developed us as men, not just as footballers. He will in my opinion,

always be the greatest manager in British football history,” Ferdinand said.

However, aside from inevitably injuries there were other lows as well such as when a missed doping test saw him banned for eight months in September 2003.

He was also involved in an unappetising row with his longtime England central defensive partner John Terry over the latter allegedly racially abusing Ferdinand’s younger brother Anton.

Ferdinand joined QPR in July 2014 but well past his best he took part in just 12 games.

Ferdinand and Joey Barton were among six players released by relegated Queens Park Rangers on Wednesday. - AFP

FOOTBALL

Fifa suspends Indonesia over long-running row JAKARTA: Fifa on Saturday suspended Indonesia after the government in Jakarta sought to oust the country’s football association, the latest crisis to hit the sport in Indonesia.

The decision means Indonesian sides will no longer be able to take part in world football, and comes less than two weeks before the country was due to begin qualifying matches for the 2018 World Cup. The national team will, however, still be able to participate in the football tournament at the Southeast Asian Games, which is just getting under way.

Fifa’s decision “resulted from the effective ‘take over’ of the activities of PSSI (the Indonesian football association) by the Indonesian authorities,” a spokesman for the world governing body said.

“All Indonesian national teams (national or club) are prohibited from having international sporting contact which includes participating in Fifa and AFC competitions.”

Loses Fifa membership The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is one of six regional federations that make up Fifa, and the ban means Indonesia will no longer be able to participate in the AFC Cup, the region’s premier football tournament.

PSSI also loses its Fifa membership rights and its members and officials will not benefit from any Fifa and AFC development programmes or training, the spokesman said.

The decision was made at a meeting of the Fifa’s Executive Committee in Zurich on Saturday.

The row erupted in April when the PSSI halted the country’s

top-flight league due to a disagreement with the sports ministry over the participation of two clubs. The ministry then froze all activities of the PSSI, and said it was setting up a transitional body to replace the association, which has long faced allegations of corruption and mismanagement.

Fifa, which takes a dim view of governments interfering in domestic associations, backed the PSSI and gave Jakarta until May 29 to allow the association to resume activities, or face a ban from world football.

Urgent reforms needed A series of last-ditch efforts this week to resolve the row, including an attempt by Indonesia’s vice president to persuade the sports ministry to back down, came to nothing.

Sports Minister Imam Nahrawi has refused to change course and in recent days expressed hope that the crisis engulfing Fifa would delay the sanction.

Top Fifa officials were arrested this week after being accused by U.S. authorities of taking huge bribes, while Swiss police are investigating the awarding of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

President Joko Widodo has supported Nahrawi, saying urgent reform is needed in Indonesian football.

“It doesn’t matter if we are absent from international competitions for a while as long as we can win big in the future,” he was cited as saying in the Jakarta Post newspaper on Saturday, before the suspension was announced.

“I’m confident when the reforms are made, we will be moving forward.” - AFP

F R I E N D LY M AT C H

Chelsea youngsters edgeThai All Stars BANGKOK: Chelsea’s up-andcoming youngsters got a chance to shine under sweltering Bangkok skies on Saturday as the Blues survived a brief second half scare to dispatch the Thai All Stars 1-0.

The English Premier League champions were visiting the Thai capital for the first stop on an endof-season tour that will also take in Australia.

Youngsters Izzy Brown, Ola Aina, Nathan Ake and Dominic Solanke all began the match pitchside, with the latter showing why he was named Chelsea’s academy player of the year last week.

The 17-year-old hammered home a perfectly-executed volley in the 12th minute after a low cross from Aina, 18, received a light touch from Loic Remy before finding Solanke’s right foot.

Kiatisuk Senamuang’s All Star team, made up of local premier league players, proved little resistance for the visitors. But they nearly caused some embarrassment in the 67th minute with an on-target shot kept clear by a brilliant header from Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen.

LONE GOAL: Chelsea’s Dominic Solanke, second right, celebrates

with teammates after scoring against Thailand All-Stars during their friendly match in Bangkok on Saturday. – Reuters

Conditions for the visitors inside Thailand’s national Rajamangala Stadium were far removed from the more comfortable — and balmy — climes the

Blues are used to in west London.

With the mercury hovering around 34 degrees Celsius (93 Fahrenheit) even as night fell, Chelsea seemed in no particular

rush to do much chasing and the drink breaks were frequent.

Manager Jose Mourinho had to make do with flimsy plastic pitchside chairs instead of a plush Stamford Bridge manager’s box.

English football commands a huge following in Thailand with Chelsea, sponsored by the local Singha beer brand, one of the favourites.

Among the fans inside the stadium, blue shirts easily outnumbered the local team’s red strips.

The second half saw some of Chelsea’s more experienced players take the pitch, including captain John Terry and injury-prone Diego Garcia, who was pulled off again after less than 20 minutes.

Eden Hazard got a cheer from the crowd almost every time he went near the ball in the second half and the Belgian had a couple of close shots.

The only yellow card of the evening went to All Star and Bangkok United defender Mika Chunuonsee after a fairly blatant handball halted what could have been a dangerous attacking run from Jeremy Boga. - AFP

F R I E N D LY I N AU S T R A L I A

Kane scores again in Spurs win SYDNEY: Rising England star Harry Kane scored the winner as Tottenham Hotspur beat Sydney FC 1-0 in their friendly match in Sydney on Saturday.

The in-demand 21-year-old sharpshooter was on target in the 43rd minute to give Spurs the victory before 71,549 fans at Sydney’s Olympic Stadium.

Kane, who scored 21 league goals in the recent English Premier League season where he played in 51 club games, has the scoring knack and scored both goals in Tottenham’s 2-1 victory over a Malaysian select squad in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino kept Kane on the field for 84 minutes before bringing him off to a rousing reception from the appreciative Australian crowd.

“It was great to get on the scoresheet again and to win the game and it tops off an amazing season and a great campaign,” Kane said.

“I could have got a couple more goals, but the keeper played well and we had some good chances and so did Sydney.

“I spoke to the management about (playing more minutes) and

WINNER: Tottenham’s goal-

scorer Harry Kane applauds fans after their friendly match against Sydney FC in Sydney on Saturday. – Reuters

I’ve got a tournament coming up so it was a good chance to get a bit more fitness before that... I always want to be playing, to be honest.”

Kane missed a couple of chances before he clinically struck two

minutes before half-time. A quick counter by Spurs and Argentinian winger Erik Lamela did well to hold up the ball before freeing Kane on the right and the young whiz let rip from the edge of the area to beat goalkeeper Ivan Necevski with an angled volley.

Spurs dominated the opening half with Dane Christian Eriksen firing high over the bar in a shooting position.

Lamela, meanwhile, thrilled the big crowd with his trademark “rabona” chip shot at goal where his kicking leg was wrapped around the back of the standing leg.

Sydney’s Alex Brosque was denied by a goal-line clearance by Belgian international Jan Vertonghen after a misplaced pass exposed French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

Kane had a goal-bound shot kicked off the line by Sebastian Ryall in the 70th minute as Spurs pressed for the killer second goal.

Tottenham’s fifth placing in the EPL ensures they will be playing in next season’s Europa League.

Sydney FC, this season’s beaten A-League grand finalists, face another stern test on Tuesday when they take on newly-crowned EPL champions Chelsea. - AFP

S U N DAY, MAY 31 , 2 0 1 5

C5

SPORTS

DEVELOPMENT ON MIND: Oman Cricket official Duleep Mendis and ACC official Iqbal Sikander during their visit to Indian School Sohar, left, and during their meetings with people in Sohar.

Oman Cricket initiates measures to take the game beyond Muscat And any assessment the visiting official will make will be directly be reported to the governing body of the world cricket and will pave way for the Oman getting further recognition from ICC. “Iqbal Sikander is very pleased with the development work being carried out by Oman Cricket. He is also happy with our efforts to take the game to different part of the country,” Duleep said.

According to Duleep Mendis, who has been travelling along with visiting ACC official Iqbal Sikander, Oman Cricket is looking at Sohar, Salalah, Nizwa and Duqm as the immediate centres to launch development programmes

A. SESHAGIRI RAO

raoas@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman Cricket (OC) officials are walking the talk. In the past few years, the governing body of the Sultanate’s cricket has been doing what it has promised to do for the overall development of the cricket.

Be it the onfield success or the recognition off it, the Oman Cricket has been striving to march towards their goal of achieving excellence.

The national team winning the ACC Twenty20 Cup in the UAE — thereby qualifying for the ICC Twenty20 World Cup Qualifier to be jointly hosted by Ireland and Scotland later this year — and obtaining the Associate Membership of International Cricket Council (ICC) in June 2014 are two prime examples.

Now Oman Cricket is working on fulfilling another promise — to popularise and develop the game across the Sultanate.

The Oman cricket body knows

NEEDS TO SPRUCING UP: Oman Cricket Chief Development Officer Duleep Mendis after a visit to Sohar said there are facilities in the city

that are suitable for development of cricket but they need to be spruced up.

there is a need and the scope for spreading the game far and wide and it also believes that is the only way to further develop cricket in the country.

Instead of just talking talk they have started the initiatives to ‘take the game beyond Muscat’ and into the interior regions.

And the man who Oman Cricket has entrusted with leading these initiatives is none other than Duleep Mendis.

The Sri Lankan great, who has been working hard to help Oman Cricket achieve their goals both as the national team coach and chief development officer, has just started the process of visiting different parts of Oman to study the suitability of the situation and available facilities in order to work out a mechanism to launch the development works.

In the past one week, Duleep and the visiting Asian Cricket Council

(ACC) Regional Development Officer Iqbal Sikander have visited Sohar and Salalah to study the viability of starting the development programmes there.

“It’s Oman Cricket’s ambition to take cricket beyond Muscat and to the different part of Oman,” said Duleep Mendis.

Speaking to Times Sport, after their visit to Sohar, Mendis said: “Our initial targets are Sohar, Salalah, Nizwa and Duqm. To develop

cricket in those areas and take it further into the interior areas.”

“We have started with Sohar,” he said on the eve of the duo’s departure to Salalah.

“We are glad ACC Development Officer Iqbal Sikander is here with us and also visiting the places.

His presence is a big advantage for Oman Cricket as Duleep explained the Asian cricket body will cease to exist on July 1 and will become part of the ICC.

Proper facilities Giving the details of their trip to Sohar, he said: “The main idea is to find suitable venues to launch the development progammes. We have visited Oman Mining Company where they have a ground.

The facilities are there but we need to develop them. We need to develop proper practice facilities and a proper ground.”

Duleep also said they looked into the availability of facilities in Sohar city.

“Besides Oman Mining Company, we have also explored the facilities in the city itself,” he said.

“There are some football clubs with green grounds, some of which have three or four nets.

“We have also visited the Indian School Sohar where they have net facilities. The principal and other faculty have been very cooperative. They have shown keen interest in our development work.”

Duleep said ‘these are initial steps and if everything works to our plans we will definitely be taking and popularising the game to all across the nation’.

Praising Oman Cricket for sticking to their plans and staying on path of development, he said: “The Oman Cricket, the board members and everyone who are involved with country’s cricket are doing their bit and doing it very sincerely. And when there are such committed and dedicated people, the goals, however lofty they are, will be achievable.”

TOUGH GROUP

Oman to launch ICC World T20 qualifying campaign against Kenya MUSCAT: Oman will launch their campaign in the ICC World Twenty20 Qualifier 2015 against Kenya on July 11.

According to news posted on the International Cricket Council (ICC) website, Oman are placed in Group B along with Canada, the Netherlands, Afghanistan, the UAE and hosts Scotland besides Kenya.

The Qualifier will be jointly hosted by Scotland and Ireland from July 9 to 26 where 14 teams will vye for six available places for the ICC World Twenty20 championship to be hosted by India in 2016.

According to the format of the ICC World Twenty20 Qualifier 2015, the sides that top the two groups will automatically qualify for the ICC World Twenty20, while the sides that finish second

and third in each of the two groups will play cross-over matches with the two winners joining the tabletoppers for the India tournament.

The losing sides of the two play-off matches will then play the fourth-placed sides from each of the two groups in cross-over matches with the winners completing the 16-team line-up for the ICC World Twenty20 India 2016.

The fifth-sixth and third-fourth position play-offs as well as the final will be played on the last three days of the tournament based on which these teams’ seeding-groupings for the ICC World Twenty20 India 2016 will be confirmed.

Groups: Group A: Ireland, Nepal, Hong Kong, Papua New Guinea, Namibia, USA and Jersey. Group B: Aghanistan, UAE, the Netherlands, Scotland, Canada, Kenya and Oman.

Warm-up matches: July 6: Nepal v Oman, Stormont, Belfast; PNG v Kenya, Bready, Co. Tyrone; Scotland v Namibia, The Grange, Edinburgh; Netherlands v Hong Kong, Myreside, Edinburgh; Ireland v UAE, Stormont, Belfast; USA v local side, Bready, Co. Tyrone; Canada v local side, The Grange, Edinburgh; Afghanistan v Jersey, Myreside, Edinburgh.

July 7: Nepal v UAE, Stormont, Belfast; local team v PNG, Bready, Co. Tyrone; Scotland v Jersey, Goldenacre, Edinburgh; local team v Netherlands, New Williamfield, Stirling; Ireland v Oman, Stormont, Belfast; Kenya v USA, Bready, Co. Tyrone; Canada v Namibia, Goldenacre, Edinburgh; Afghanistan v Hong Kong, New Williamfield, Stirling.

Tournament schedule: July 9: Scotland v UAE, The Grange, Edinburgh (1000-1310); Netherlands v Afghanistan, The Grange, Edinburgh (1415-1725). July 10: Ireland v Namibia, Stormont, Belfast (1000-1310); Canada v Kenya, Myreside, Edinburgh

(1000-1310); Nepal v USA, Stormont, Belfast (1415-1725); UAE v Afghanistan, The Grange, Edinburgh 1415-1725. July 11: Hong Kong v Jersey, Bready, Co. Tyrone (10001310); Scotland v Netherlands, The Grange, Edinburgh (1000-1310); Kenya v Oman, Myreside, Edinburgh (1000-1310); Nepal v Namibia, Stormont, Belfast (1415-1725).

July 12: Ireland v USA, Stormont, Belfast (1000-1310); PNG v Jersey, Bready, Co. Tyrone (1000-1310); UAE v Netherlands, The Grange, Edinburgh (1000-1310); Canada v Oman, New Williamfield, Stirling (10001310); Scotland v Afghanistan, The Grange, Edinburgh (1415-1725). July 13: Namibia v USA, Stormont, Belfast (1000-1310); Hong Kong v PNG, Bready, Co. Tyrone (10001310); Ireland v Nepal, Stormont, Belfast (1415-1725); Afghanistan v Kenya, New Williamfield, Stirling (1415-1725). July 14: Netherlands v Oman, Myreside, Edinburgh (1000-1310); UAE v Canada, New William-

field, Stirling (1000-1310); Scotland v Kenya, The Grange, Edinburgh (1415-1725). July 15: Ireland v PNG, Stormont, Belfast (10001310); USA v Jersey, Bready, Co. Tyrone (1000-1310); Afghanistan v Oman, Goldenacre, Edinburgh (1000-1310); Nepal v Hong Kong, Stormont, Belfast (1415-1725); UAE v Kenya, Goldenacre, Edinburgh (1415-1725).

July 16: Scotland v Canada, Goldenacre, Edinburgh (1000-1310). July 17: Nepal v PNG, Malahide, Dublin (1000-1310); Namibia v Jersey, Clontarf (1000-1310); Netherlands v Canada, Goldenacre, Edinburgh (10001310); UAE v Oman, New Williamfield, Stirling (1000-1310); Ireland v Hong Kong, Malahide, Dublin (1415-1725). July 18: Nepal v Jersey, Malahide, Dublin (1000-1310); Scotland v Oman, Goldenacre, Edinburgh (1000-1310); Afghanistan v Canada, New Williamfield, Stirling (1000-1310); PNG v Namibia, Malahide, Dublin (1415-1725); Hong Kong v USA, Clontarf, Dublin (1415-

1725); Netherlands v Kenya, Myreside, Edinburgh (1415-1725). July 19: Ireland v Jersey, Malahide, Dublin (1000-1310); PNG v USA, Malahide, Dublin (1415-1725); Hong Kong v Namibia, Clontarf, Dublin (1415-1725).

July 21: Qualifying Play-Off 1 (A2 v B3), Malahide, Dublin (1000-1310); Qualifying Play-Off 2 (A3 v B2), Malahide, Dublin (1415-1725). July 23: Qualifying Play-Off 3 (A4 v loser Qualifying Play-Off 1, Malahide, Dublin (1000-1310); Qualifying Play-Off 4 (B4 v loser Qualifying Play-Off 2, Malahide, Dublin (1415-1725).

July 25: Semifinal (B1 v Winner Qualifying Play-off 1), Malahide, Dublin (10001310); fifth/sixth position play-off (winner play-off 3 v winner play-off 4), Clontarf, Dublin (1000-1310); Semifinal (A1 v Winner Qualifying Play-off 2), Malahide, Dublin (1415-1725). July 26: Third place play-off, Malahide, Dublin (1000-1310); Final, Malahide, Dublin (1415-1725).

C6

SU N DAY, MAY 3 1, 2015

SPORTS

Blatter lambasts US and Europe No change in distribution of places for World Cup

Blatter began his fifth term, implying

No one is going to take it off me that it was a simple coincidence (that) this American attack (happened) two days before the elections of Fifa

that the US timed the announcement of a major corruption probe to try to scupper his reelection bid and criticising Uefa for not setting a good

Sepp Blatter

example to other

Fifa President

federations

ZURICH: Fifa President Sepp Blatter came out fighting on Saturday as he began his fifth term in charge of soccer’s governing body, implying that the United States timed the announcement of a major corruption probe to try to scupper his re-election bid.

The 79-year-old Swiss comfortably won Friday’s vote at a Fifa Congress in Zurich, having secured the support of blocks of votes from Asia and Africa, which outweighed dissenters including Europe’s powerful soccer body Uefa.

He now faces the daunting task of restoring public faith in an organisation tainted by allegations of graft and deeply divided over his leadership.

In an interview with Swiss television late on Friday, he criticised U.S. authorities for how they had handled their investigation.

“No one is going to take it off me that it was a simple coincidence (that) this American attack (happened) two days before the elections of Fifa,” Blatter told the RTS channel.

“Why didn’t they (the police) do this in March when we had the

same meeting? At that time, we had less journalists.”

In a dawn swoop on a Zurich hotel on Wednesday, Swiss police arrested seven leading soccer officials, including Fifa vice-president Jeffrey Webb.

The arrests were connected to a bribery scandal being investigated

by U.S., Swiss and other law enforcement agencies that plunged Fifa into the worst crisis in its 111year history.

Blatter also criticised Uefa, whose president Michel Platini had called for his resignation, saying it was not setting a good example to other soccer federations.

He told reporters on Saturday that Uefa had opposed a proposal to set up an independent committee to carry out integrity checks on executive committee members before they could take office.

“This was rejected by Uefa so it couldn’t go through,” he said.

“Even now, the big Uefa doesn’t have an independent ethics committee, (but) they should be an example for the other confederations... It’s not acceptable.”

He did, however, call for the two groups to work together, particularly to protect the World Cup.

“They need Fifa and Fifa needs Uefa,” Blatter said.

Expanding power base Blatter played down the impact of the scandal on one of the world’s most powerful sports bodies, which takes in billions of dollars in revenue from TV marketing rights and sponsorships.

“These crimes which have been committed are related to North and South America and a marketing company has been mentioned, so I do not see how (Fifa) could be directly affected by this.”

“We have always tried, in my tenure of office, to eliminate all these elements or individuals.”

Blatter has not been implicated in any wrongdoing, but having ruled Fifa for nearly 20 years during which it has regularly been subject to suspicions of graft, his critics have argued it was time for him to step down.

His supporters welcomed the outcome of a vote that pitted the veteran incumbent against a sole challenger, 39-year-old Prince Ali bin Al Hussein of Jordan.

That support reflects Blatter’s success in expanding Fifa’s membership away from soccer’s heart-

lands and in exploiting resentment in Africa and Asia over the perceived arrogance of the game’s powerhouse nations in Europe and South America.

Despite Blatter’s re-election, the scandal surrounding the investigations into corruption looks set to rumble on.

Platini has raised the possibility, albeit slim, of Europe boycotting the World Cup tournament, soccer’s showcase played every four years. There has also been talk of Uefa breaking away from Fifa, although that is also seen as unlikely.

More indictments Blatter’s future could yet depend on the reaction of Fifa’s major sponsors and stakeholders such as Coca-Cola and McDonald’s, who have been dismayed by the arrests and U.S. prosecutors announcing indictments of officials and companies.

A senior U.S. Internal Revenue Service official said on Friday he thought there would be further indictments, the New York Times reported, although he declined to identify the remaining targets of the investigation.

Swiss prosecutors are investi-

CONVINCED

gating the award of the World Cup finals to Russia in 2018 and Qatar in 2022, decisions that have deepened rifts within Fifa.

The choice of Qatar, a small desert state where summer daytime temperatures rarely fall below 40 degrees Celsius, was especially contentious and went against the advice of Fifa’s own technical committee.

‘It’s about the game’ Russia and Qatar deny wrongdoing in their bids to host the prestigious tournament, and Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of meddling in an effort to force Blatter out.

When asked after the vote if he could guarantee the next World Cup would still be staged in Russia,

place despite a good performance in Brazil last year, where five of the continent’s six teams got past the second round.

It also left Oceania without a guaranteed place, with the top side in the region instead having to playoff with a team from another continent.

That has proved a difficult task in the past, with New Zealand losing 9-3 on aggregate to Mexico in a two-leg playoff for a place in Brazil.

“The same distribution has been accepted by everyone although some were more grumpy than others,” Blatter told reporters.

In October 2013, the Fifa president had said that he wanted Africa and Asia to have more places.

In April, he said that Concacaf should have four full places rather than 3.5. - Reuters

Fifa Secretary General Jerome Valcke told reporters: “Yes, yes. I mean now, today ... yes the World Cup will be played in Russia and Qatar.”

Away from the crisis engulfing soccer’s administration, the under-20 World Cup got underway in New Zealand, and more than 25,000 people turned up in Auckland for the opening game.

Preparations for the Women’s World Cup, which opens in Canada on June 6, continued with a friendly between the hosts and England before a sellout crowd in Hamilton, Ontario.

“For these women, it is not about the money, it’s about the game, it renews your faith,” said England supporter Kevin Mackowski.

“And it’s good soccer, it’s a truly beautiful game.” - Reuters

S TAU N C H S U P P O R T

England’s Gill rejects Fifa role after ‘terribly damaging events’ LONDON: English Football Association vice-chairman David Gill confirmed on Saturday he will not take up his post on Fifa’s executive committee following the re-election of Sepp Blatter as president of soccer’s world governing body.

The former Manchester United chief executive was only elected two months ago for a four-year term but the 57-year-old did not attend Saturday’s first executive committee meeting following Blatter’s re-election to a fifth term.

Blatter beat Prince Ali bin Al Hussein of Jordan in Friday’s presidential election overshadowed by allegations of rampant corruption within Fifa.

“This action is not something I take lightly but the terribly damaging events of the last three days have convinced me it is not appropriate to be a member of the Fifa executive committee under the current leadership,” Gill, who was due to sit on the powerful committee as Britain’s Fifa vice-president, told British media.

“I do recognise that Mr Blatter has been democratically elected and wish Fifa every success in tackling the many troubling issues it faces.

“However, my professional reputation is critical to me and I simply do not see how there will be change for the good of world football while

ZURICH: Fifa will not make any changes to the allocation of World Cup slots among the six continents for the 2018 and 2022 tournaments in Russia and Qatar, president Sepp Blatter said on Saturday.

Europe will have 13 places, Africa 5, S.America 4.5, Asia 4.5, Concacaf 3.5 and Oceania 0.5, while hosts Russia qualify automatically in 2018 and Qatar in 2022.

A half place means that the team in question has to play off over two legs against a team from another continent for a place in the finals.

UEFA President Michel Platini had on Thursday warned that cutting the number of European teams at the finals was “a red line that must not be crossed”.

The decision was good news for South America which had feared losing half a

Blatter on borrowed time , says Dyke LONDON: England football chief Greg Dyke on Saturday insisted that Sepp Blatter’s controversial re-election as Fifa president would not repel efforts to unseat him, and brushed of claims of a “hate” campaign.

“I don’t think yesterday (the vote) is the end of it, I think you will see a lot more,” FA Chairman Dyke said ahead of the FA Cup Final at London’s Wembley Stadium, echoing the words of US attorney general Loretta Lynch, who promised that this week’s corruption arrests were just the beginning.

“I’ll put money that Mr Blatter isn’t there in four years.

Whatever happens, he will be

Mr Blatter remains in post.

“I will continue to focus on my positions within the FA and Uefa, which I take seriously and am privileged to hold.”

Britain’s Fifa vice-president is elected by members of Uefa, European soccer’s governing body, and

gone after four years anyway, in which case we can elect someone to sort out world football.”

The FA boss said Blatter had exploited his “incredible amount of patronage” within Fifa to secure re-election.

The English FA has been at the forefront of efforts to depose the veteran administrator, and now has the support of many countries in Europe, who voted against him on Friday.

But Dyke said England would not act alone in boycotting the World Cup, even if its fans called for it.

“There’s no point boycotting the World Cup on our own, but if the rest of Europe decided

an election for Gill’s successor is now expected to take place.

“I don’t know what are the projects of Mr David Gill, he was not present at the executive committee today,” Blatter told reporters.

“He has given no excuse or reasons for his absence. Yesterday

to boycott the World Cup, we would certainly join them,” he said. “There’s no point on doing it alone, everyone says ‘thank you very much’ and then you’re forgotten.”

Dyke was speaking after unveiling Emirates airline as the new sponsor of England’s showpiece cup competition, and took a swipe at Blatter during the press conference, particularly his accusation of a “hate” campaign by Europe’s football leaders.

“I notice everyone else is to blame except Blatter,” he said.

“It seems anyone who speaks out against Blatter is carrying out a campaign of hate.” - AFP

(Friday), he was installed officially as a member of the Fifa Exco and I am waiting. “(Acting responsibly) is not, when you are elected...you do not come even to the first meeting.

This is not responsible, if you are elected you have to come.” - Reuters

AFC’s Salman hails Blatter re-election SINGAPORE: Asia football chief Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa congratulated Fifa President Sepp Blatter on his re-election for a fifth term — a victory the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) played a major role in delivering.

The AFC leadership’s staunch support for Blatter was reiterated on the eve of the contest by Al Khalifa’s patron, Olympic Council of Asia chief Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad Al Sabah, despite the only other candidate being from Jordan.

With Australia the only public dissenters in the Asian bloc, Blatter duly romped to victory over Prince Ali bin Al Hussein despite the corruption allegations which have again engulfed soccer’s world governing body this week.

“On behalf of myself, the AFC and the whole Asian football family, I would like to congratulate Joseph S. Blatter on his re-election as Fifa President,” Bahraini Al Khalifa said in a statement on Saturday. “The AFC has always supported the Fifa President and we are happy to continue working with him and Fifa to further develop Asian and world football into the future.”

Blatter and his mentor and predecessor as president, the now disgraced Brazilian Joao Havelange, have ruled Fifa for four decades on the back of a powerbase

they built by expanding membership away from the game’s traditional heartlands.

Only 98 countries participated in the qualifying for the World Cup in 1974, the year Havelange embarked on his first term, while 207 teams took part in qualifying for last year’s finals in Brazil.

The Asia and Oceania regions combined sent just one team, Australia, to the 1974 finals in Germany but last year there were four spots for Asia alone and they could have had a fifth had Jordan beaten Uruguay in a playoff.

The granting of extra World Cup spots, or the threat of their withdrawal, is only part of the patronage available to Fifa leaders.

Australia, still fuming that their bid for the 2022 World Cup won just one vote as Qatar was controversially awarded the tournament, earlier on Saturday issued their own statement expressing their disappointment at Blatter’s re-election.

“It is a democracy and Mr Blatter was duly elected,” Football Federation Australia chairman Frank Lowy said in a statement.

“The vote secured by Prince Ali was not insignificant and reflects a belief within Fifa and the world football community that governance and other reforms need to be implemented as soon as possible.” - Reuters

C

LIFE & STYLE

SECTION

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM S U N DAY, MAY 3 1 , 2 0 1 5

A preview of the Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency-sponsored competition in the US, suggests that nobody needs to worry about killer robots creating havoc anytime soon

I

n glossy sci-fi movies like Ex Machina and Chappie, robots move with impressive — and frequently malevolent — dexterity. They appear to confirm the worst fears of prominent technologists and scientists like Elon Musk, Stephen Hawking and Bill Gates, who have all recently voiced alarm over the possible emergence of self-aware machines out to do harm to the human race.

“I don’t understand why some people are not concerned,” Gates said in an interview on Reddit.

“I think we should be very careful about artificial intelligence,” Musk said during an interview at MIT. “If I had to guess at what our biggest existential threat is, it’s probably that,” he added. He has also said that artificial intelligence would “summon the demon.”

And Hawking told the BBC that “the development of full artificial intelligence could spell the end of the human race.”

Not so fast. Next month, the Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency, a Pentagon research arm, will hold the final competition in its Robotics Challenge in Pomona, California, US. With $2 million in prize money for the robot that performs best in a series of rescueoriented tasks in less than an hour, the event will offer what engineers refer to as the “ground truth” — a reality check on the state of the art in the field of mobile robotics.

A preview of their work suggests that nobody needs to worry about a Terminator creating havoc anytime soon. Given a year and a half to improve their machines, the roboticists, who shared details about their work in interviews before the contest in June, appear to have made limited progress.

In the previous contest in Florida in December 2013, the robots, which were protected from falling by tethers, were glacially slow in accomplishing tasks

such as opening doors and entering rooms, clearing debris, climbing ladders and driving through an obstacle course.

(The robots had to be placed in the vehicles by human minders.)

Reporters who covered the event resorted to such analogies as “watching paint dry” and “watching grass grow.”

This year, the robots will have an hour to complete a set of eight tasks that would probably take a human less than 10 minutes. And the robots are likely to fail at many. This time they will compete without belays, so some falls may be inevitable. And they will still need help climbing into the driver’s seat of a rescue vehicle.

Twenty-five teams are expected to enter the competition. Most of their robots will be two-legged, but many will have four legs, several will have wheels, and one “transformer” is designed to roll on four legs or two. That robot, named Chimp by its designers at Carnegie Mellon University, will weigh 443 pounds.

None of the robots will be autonomous.

Human operators will guide the machines via wireless networks that will occasionally slow to just a trickle of data, to simulate intermittent communications

during a crisis. This will give an edge to machines that can act semi-autonomously, for example, automatically walking on uneven terrain or grabbing and turning a door handle to open a door. But the machines will remain largely helpless without human supervisors.

“The extraordinary thing that has happened in the last five years is that we have seemed to make extraordinary progress in machine perception,” said Gill Pratt, the DARPA program manager in charge of the Robotics Challenge.

Pattern recognition hardware and software has made it possible for computers to make dramatic progress in computer vision and speech understanding. In contrast, Pratt said, little headway has been made in “cognition,” the higherlevel humanlike processes required for robot planning and true autonomy. As a result, both in the DARPA contest and in the field of robotics more broadly, there has been a re-emphasis on the idea of human-machine partnerships.

“It is extremely important to remember that the DARPA Robotics Challenge is about a team of humans and machines working together,” he said. “Without the

person, these machines could hardly do anything at all.”

In fact, the steep challenge in making progress toward mobile robots that can mimic human capabilities is causing robotics researchers worldwide to rethink their goals. Now, instead of trying to build completely autonomous robots, many researchers have begun to think instead of creating ensembles of humans and robots, an approach they describe as co-robots or “cloud robotics.”

Ken Goldberg, a University of California, Berkeley, roboticist, has called on the computing world to drop its obsession with singularity, the much-ballyhooed time when computers are predicted to surpass their human designers. Rather, he has proposed a concept he calls “multiplicity,” with diverse groups of humans and machines solving problems through collaboration.

For decades, artificial-intelligence researchers have noted that the simplest tasks for humans, such as reaching into a pocket to retrieve a quarter, are the most challenging for machines.

“The intuitive idea is that the more money you spend on a robot, the more

autonomy you will be able to design into it,” said Rodney Brooks, an MIT roboticist and co-founder two early companies, iRobot and Rethink Robotics. “The fact is actually the opposite is true: The cheaper the robot, the more autonomy it has.”

For example, iRobot’s Roomba robot is autonomous, but the vacuuming task it performs by wandering around rooms is extremely simple. By contrast, the company’s Packbot is more expensive, designed for defusing bombs, and must be teleoperated or controlled wirelessly by people.

The first DARPA challenge more than a decade ago had a big effect on the perception of robots. It also helped spark greater interest in the artificial intelligence and robotics industries.

During the initial DARPA challenge in 2004, none of the robotic vehicles was able to complete more than seven of the 150 miles that the course covered. However, during the 2005 challenge, a $2 million prize was claimed by a group of artificial-intelligence researchers from Stanford University whose vehicle defeated a Carnegie Mellon entrant in a tight race.

The contest led to Google’s decision to begin a self-driving-car project, which in turn spurred the automotive industry to invest heavily in autonomous vehicle technology.

Developing a car to drive on an unobstructed road was a far simpler task than the current DARPA Robotics Challenge, which requires robots to drive and, while they’re walking, navigate around obstacles, remove debris, use vision and grasp with dexterity, and perform tasks with tools. “We had a relatively easy task,” said Sebastian Thrun, a roboticist who led the Stanford team in 2005 and later started the Google self-driving-car project. “Today they’re doing the hard stuff.”

-John Markoff/The New York Times News Service

C8

SU N DAY, MAY 3 1, 2015

EXTRA

Must-see gigs, must-visit restaurants, must-watch box sets. Is it any surprise we all feel we’re missing out when social media pumps this hype at us?

T

he acronym Fomo (it stands for Fear of Missing Out, in case you have, um, missed out) entered the lexicon back in 2011 — and it’s showing little sign of abating.

It’s nothing new, this social anxiety that comes from worrying that everyone is having more fun than you; I daresay even Ugg the caveman used to fret that Ogg had found a better mammoth-hunting spot than him. But everyone is agreed that if you take a primal fear and give it a smartphone, the anxiety gets much worse.

It’s no coincidence that the tap-happy acronym emerged at around the same time we all went Instagram and Twittercrazy. Alongside Facebook, these apps not only present us with endless streams of photos of

other people having a fabulous time in flattering filters, but also offer ceaselessly updating lists of “must-see” gigs and plays and movies; clubs and cocktail bars and pop-up restaurants we “must visit”; and the greatest records and boxsets and books of all time that we “must” consume before we die — presumably of exhaustion.

Even when you’re having fun, it’s easy to find yourself having a quick social-media scroll when your dining companion pops to the loo; suddenly, a snap of friends on a holiday pops up and makes your going out feel like missing out.

Fomo is now such a widely used phrase that there’s even a recent modification, Fogo — or Fear of Going Out — applied to events that everyone else is at but

which are now so mainstream that they’re totally lame (the celeb-filled, much-Instagrammed Coachella Music Festival prompted the coinage in a recent New York Magazine piece). But Fomo is also now being taken seriously — London’s ICA is even hosting a summit on the phenomenon this month. Granted, its three-day examination of “the progression and trajectory of technological, ecological and cultural advances” reaches far beyond our propensity for hissy-fitting over sold-out gigs, but it nonetheless legitimises Fomo, taking the notion of “postdigital anxieties” as a given.

Now, anxiety is good for no one.

And I certainly suffer from this very modern malaise — feeling not only overwhelmed by all the things I’m going to, but also all the things I’m not. But here’s the thing

about Fomo — it can be a spur.

It would be easy to spend life sat on my sofa nibbling Ferrero Rocher layer by layer and watching First Dates. In fact, I love doing this. But I love doing it because I do it once a week.

If I was watching vapid telly every evening — what a waste!

The fact that when I’m doing nothing, social media is gently (OK, insistently) reminding me of all the brilliant things I could be doing — well, it does actually make me go and do them. And that’s great.

It is good to get out there and use your brief, precious life. That could be sport or political activism or pot-throwing; for me, it could be watching plays (it often is watching plays; I love watching plays) or going for a picnic with friends or walking up a

hill or dancing till 5am. And yes, Fomo is bad for your sleep patterns, because you never want to say no to an invitation, or leave in case something fun happens; but I say, I can sleep when I’m old — while I’ve still got the energy, bring on the afterparty!

Fomo may make us feel shaky and miserable sometimes. No one wants to feel left out. And no doubt it will recede with age — or at least it will morph into being jealous of other people’s houses rather than their house parties. But for now, for me, I think it is helpful.

The fear of missing out can push us to live life to the full, to live each day as if it were our last, to seize the day, and other cheesy inspirational-poster quotes. If Fomo didn’t exist, just think how much more you’d miss out on.

-Holly Williams/The Independent

S U N DAY, MAY 31 , 2 0 1 5

C9

ENTERTAINMENT CINEMA SCHEDULE

BAHJA CINEMA San Andreas (Act, Adv) (3D) PG Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino 11:00 am, 5:00, 9:30 & 11:45 pm San Andreas (Act, Adventure) (2D) PG Cast : Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino 1:00, 7:15 pm Mad Max Fury Road (Act, Adv)(3D) 12+ Cast: Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron 5:00, 9:15 pm Tomorrowland (Act, Adventure) (PG) Cast: George Clooney, Britt Robertson 3:00, 9:15 pm Two Faces of January (Rom) (PG12) Cast: Viggo Mortensen, Kirsten Dunst 1:00, 7:15 pm Maggie (Drama, Horror) (PG12) Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Abigail Breslin, Joely Richardso 3:00, 11:45 pm Jungle Master (Anim, Adv) (2D) PG Cast: Victoria Justice, David Spade 11:15 am Jungle Master (Animation) (3D) PG Cast : Victoria Justice, David Spade, Josh Peck 1:15, 3:15 pm Unfriended (Horror, Thriller) (18+) Cast: Heather Sossaman, Courtney 5:30, 11:30 pm Zanket Al Sittat (PG12) Cast: Hassan El Raddad, Amy Samir 11:00 am, 7:15 pm

3:15pm Tanu Weds Manu Returns (Com) (PG) Khan; 6:55pm San Andreas (2D) (Act/Thriller) (PG) Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino 11:15 am San Andreas (3D) (Act/Thriller) (PG) Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino 5:45, 9:40 & 11:45 pm Gold Class: 2:15, 09:00, 11:15 pm Jungle Master (3D) (Animation) (PG) Cast: Victoria Justice, David Spade 11:30 am & 1:30 pm Always Watching (2D) (Horror) (PG12) Cast: Alexandra Breckenridge, Jake McDorman, Doug Jones 3:15 pm Zanket Al Sittat (2D) (Com) (PG12) Cast: Hassan El Raddad, Amy Samir 5:00 pm Two Faces of January (2D) (Thr) (PG12) Cast: Viggo Mortensen, Kirsten Dunst 1:15 pm Maggie (2D): (Horror) (PG12) Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Abigail Breslin 7:50 & 11:45pm, Gold Class: 4:30pm

SCREEN 1 Welcome to Karachi (Dra/Com) – PG12 Cast: Arshad Warsi, Nigel Barber 3:30, 6:30, 9:30pm SCREEN 2

Tanu Weds Manu Returns (2D) (Comedy/Romance) (PG) Cast: Kangana Ranaut, Madhavan, Eijaz Khan 6:30 pm Tomorrowland (2D)(Sci-Fi) (PG) Cast: George Clooney, Britt Robertson, Hugh Laurie

Tanu Weds Manu Returns (Rom) – PG Cast: Kangana Ranaut, R. Madhavan 3.45, 6.45, 9.45 pm SCREEN 3 Piku (Drama / Comedy) – PG Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Irrfan Khan

3:45, 9:45 pm Masss - Tamil (Horror/Comedy/Drama ) – PG12 Cast: Suriya, Nayantara, Parthiban, Samuthirakani 6.45 pm

Mad Max: Fury Road - 3D (12+) Act, Cast : Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron 9:20, 11:45 pm Tanu Weds Manu Returns- 2D (PG) Comedy | Romance Cast: Kangana Ranaut, Madhavan, Eijaz Khan 9:00 pm San Andreas - 2D (PG) Act | Dr | Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino, Alexandra Daddario 3:00 pm San Andreas - 3D (PG) Act | Dr Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino, Alexandra Daddario 7:00, 9:15, 11:30 pm Jungle Master - 3D (PG) Animation Cast: Victoria Justice, David Spade 5:15 pm Jungle Master - 2D (PG) Animation 3:15 pm The Two Faces of January - 2D (PG12) Romance | Thriller Cast: Viggo Mortensen, Kirsten Dunst; 2:30, 5:00 pm Zanket Al Sitat - 2D (Arb) (PG12) Romance | Comedy Cast: Hassan El Raddad, Amy Samir 5:10 pm Maggie - 2D (PG12) Drama | Horror Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Abigail Breslin; 7:10, 11:50 pm Masss - 2D (T) (PG12) Com |Horror Cast: Suriya, Nayanthara, Pranitha 6:00, 9:00 pm

Unfriended - 2D (18+) (Horror | Thriller) Cast : Heather Sossaman, Courtney 4:15, 11:30 pm Tomorrowland - 2D (PG) (Action) Cast: George Clooney, Britt Robertson 2:50, 6:50 pm

San Andreas – 3D (PG) Act, Drama Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino 6:45, 9:45, 11:45 pm San Andreas – 2D (PG) Act, Thriller Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino 3:45 pm Masss - 2D (PG12) Comedy, Horror Cast: Suriya, Nayanthara, Pranitha 7:15, 08:45 pm Jungle Master - 3D (PG) Anim, Adv Cast: Victoria Justice, David Spade; 3:00, 3:00, 5:45 pm The Two Faces of January – 2D (PG12) Romance, Thriller Cast: Viggo Mortensen, Kirsten Dunst, 4:40, 06:20, 11:35 pm Green Street 3: Never Back Down – 2D (12+) Action, Drama Cast: Scott Adkins, Kacey Barnfield 03:15, 10:00, 11:50 pm The Dinosaur Project - 2D (PG12) (Adventure, Sci-Fi) Cast: Richard Dillane, Peter Brooke 05:15, 08:05 pm

San Andreas (3D) (Act| Adv) (PG) Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino 07.30, 09:30, 11.30 pm San Andreas (2D) (Act | Adv ) (PG) 4:00 pm Jungle Master (3D) (Animation) (PG) Cast: Victoria Justice, David Spade

4:30, 6.00 pm Jungle Master (2D) (Animation ) (PG) 8:00 pm Zanket Al Sitat (Arabic)(Rom) (PG12) Cast: Hassan El Raddad, Amy Samir Ghanem; 6:05 pm Tanu Weds Manu Returns (Hindi) (Comedy | Romance) (PG) Cast: Kangana Ranaut, Madhavan 11:30 pm Spooks: The Greater Good (Action (12+) Cast: Kit Harington, Tuppence Middleton, Jennifer Ehle 9:35 pm

San Andreas (2D) (12+) (Act, Drama) 3:00pm San Andreas (3D) (12+) (Act, Thriller) 5:00, 9:15. 11:30pm Maggie (2D) (PG12) (Drama) Breslin; 1:15, 11:45pm Mad Max: Fury Road (3D) (12+) (Action, Adventure, Thriller) 5:00, 7:00pm The Two Faces of January (2D) (PG12) (Romance, Thriller) 12:15pm Unfriended (2D) (18+) (Horror) 2:00, 11:45pm Tomorrowland (2D) (PG) (Act, Mys) Cast: George Clooney, Britt Robertson 12:00, 5:00pm Jungle Master (2D) (PG) (Animation) 11:45 am Jungle Master (3D) (PG) (Animation) 3:30pm Always Watching: A Marble Hornets Story (2D) (PG12) (Horror) 7:15pm Zankat Al Sitat (2D) (PG12) (Rom) 7:20pm Welcome to Karachi (2D) (TBC) (Adventure, Comedy, Crime) 9:15 pm Masss (2D) (PG12) (Com, Horror) 2:15, 9:00 pm

Mad Max: Fury Road (Action) Cast: Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult 7.45 pm; CP No: 1273 (12+) Unfriended ( Thriller ) Cast: Heather Sossaman, Mathew Bohrer, Courtney Halverson 2.00, 6.00 & 11.55 pm CP No: 383 (18+) Green Street 3: Never Back Down (Action/Drama ) Cast: Scott Adkins, Kacey Bamfield 12.00, 4.00 & 10.00 pm CP No: 1382 (12+) Two Faces of January (Rom/Thr ) Cast: Vigo Mortensen, Kristen Dunst 2.00 & 6.00 pm CP No: 1380 (PG12) San Andreas (Action / Thriller) Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Alexandra Deddario, Carla Gugino 12.00, 4.00, 8.00, 10.00 & 11.55 pm CP No: 1381 (PG)

Film Information - 24540856 / Advance Booking - 24540855 Website: www.albahjacinemaoman.com

STARS CINEMA Film information 24791641 / 24786776 Masss (Tamil) (Act/ Horror ) Cast: Surya and Nayanthara 3:00, 6:30 & 10:00 pm at Cinema Main Demonte Colony ( Tamil ) (Horror ) Cast: Arulinidhi and Rajesh Thilak 3:30, 6:30 & 9:30 pm at Cinema-2 Bhaskar The Rascal (Mal ) (Rom/Com) Cast: Mammootty, Nayanthara and Isha Talwar 3:45, 6:45 & 9:45 pm at Cinema -3, 6-45 & 9-45 Pm Cinema-4 Oru Vadakka Selfie (Mal) (Com) Cast: Navin Pauly, Manjima & Vineeth Sreenivasan 3:45 pm at Cinema -4 NEXT CHANGE : Chandrettan Evideya (Mal )

For More Information 24789032, 24786776 Website: www.isurf.co.om

ACES ON BRIDGE

What is east’s trick-two discard?

P

aul Graham, an English computer programmer and venture capitalist, said, “If you imagine someone with 100 per cent determination and 100 per cent intelligence, you can discard a lot of intelligence before they stop succeeding. But if you start discarding determination, you very quickly get an ineffectual and perpetual grad student.”

Too true — so in today’s deal, have a determined effort to see the winning play. South is in four spades. West leads the heart ace and continues with the heart king. What

should East discard?

North’s three-spade rebid was aggressive. His heart honours were surely worthless, and his partner denied positive values when he failed to jump to two spades. But South, once invited, had no hesitation in bidding game.

This deal occurred during a North American Mixed Pairs Championship in the 1950s. East was Helen Sobel. She realised that her husband had to have club values. So she “discarded” a spade at trick two and shifted to a club, giving her side the first four tricks.

Since this deal happened so long ago, West had

actually led the heart king and continued with his ace.

After the deal, Al Sobel said, “Thank you for ruffing my ace, partner.” Note that if East does discard, say, a club at trick two, declarer with careful play can take 10 tricks — five spades, three diamonds and two heart ruffs in the dummy.

Phillip Alder is combining in May 2016 with Kalos to run a bridge and golf river cruise starting from Bordeaux, France. Details are available on Phillip’s website: www.phillipalderbridge. com — By Phillip Alder MARMADUKE

CROSSWORD

B I G NAT E

Answer to previous puzzle

ACROSS 1 Was on a jury 4 Kuwaiti leader 8 Stonehenge builder 12 Hardly a show dog 13 Commanded 14 Offshore 15 Citrus cooler 16 Long-armed ape 18 Popular beach outfit 20 Recess game 21 Tufted-ear cat 23 River or wine 27 Noise heard in traffic 30 Pound sound 32 Garden dweller 33 Premier — Zedong

34 — chi ch’uan 35 False hair 36 Bluesman — Redding 38 Inspect 39 Father or uncle 40 Tear to pieces 42 Hunk of cheese 44 Sty matriarch 46 Church official 50 Fleas and mistletoe 54 APB datum 55 Hit the books 56 Orchid-loving Wolfe 57 Go on the — 58 Webmaster’s creation 59 Pant

25 26 27 DOWN 1 Accident reminder 28 29 2 German import 3 Bwana’s expedition 31 37 4 Dark wood 39 5 Steep, in cooking 41 6 Potato st.

43 7 Monthly expense 45 8 Was set ablaze 47 9 Atlanta hrs.

10 Grassy field 48 11 Neutral shade 49 17 Realty ad abbr.

50 19 Class 51 22 Dentist’s photos 52 (hyph.)

53 24 Waterloo locale 60 Wood ash product

Picture holder Boundary line Med. plans Pledge Roulette color Baseball players Tahini base Business deg.

— and don’ts Fable author Annex Lead a square dance All right Moniker Hackers’ machines Jackie’s tycoon Squeal on Oolong or pekoe

BORN LOSER

WITH LOVE J. S. SHREENISHA

NOEL SEBI P.

SRIHARINI

KAVEEN STEPHEN D’SOUZA

SHIVANEE LINGARAJAN

JAGAN TEJ

May 31, 2010

May 29, 2008

May 31, 2002

May 29, 2006

May 29, 2011

May 25, 2011

Send us a colour photograph of the child (below 16 years) whose birthday you are celebrating, along with his/her full name, date of birth, address, telephone number and parents’/your name to Times of Oman, With Love, PO Box 770, PC 112, Ruwi or through e-mail to extra@timesofoman.com

KIDSPOT

H E A LT H C A P S U L E

C10

SUN DAY, MAY 31, 2015

FIND-IT-ALL Y O U R B I R T H D AY

BORN today, you know how to wrap your mind around all manner of problems and dilemmas, to the point that you can turn this ability into a major strength when applied to creative endeavors. You understand that creativity itself is often a matter of solving problems that others are simply unable to crack. You’re driven to succeed, but more than that, you are driven to improve yourself, task after task, year after year. You are never content with doing the same thing over again; you want to do something new, to stretch yourself, challenge yourself, and in fact change yourself so that you are, at the end, very different from what you were at the beginning.

You cannot abide trivial, unimportant activities; you would rather sit and read a good book — or simply think great thoughts — than engage in busywork of any kind.

There may be some who find you almost intolerably haughty and aloof, but this is simply a misinterpretation of your propensity toward solitude.

You merely like to be alone sometimes.

Also born on this date are: Clint Eastwood, actor and filmmaker; Brooke Shields, model and actress; Colin Farrell, actor; Joe Namath, football player; Lea Thompson, actress; Corey Hart, singer; Walt Whitman, poet; Tom Berenger, actor; Chris Elliott, actor; Sharon Gless, actress; Don Ameche, actor; Jim Hutton, actor; Norman Vincent Peale, author.

W E AT H E R

M

WORLD

Max 38 Min 31 Max 27 Min 18

Max 42 Min 29

Max 39 Min 30 Max 16 Min 8

Max 38 Min 31

Max 24 Min 14

Max 41 Min 25

Max 42 Min 27

Max 41 Min 24

Max 42 Min 31

Max 38 Min 28

[MAY 21-JUNE 20] Max 34 Min 29

Max 26 Min 15

-www.met.gov.om

Max 34 Min 26 Max 18 Min 10

Min

GULF Abu Dhabi Doha Dubai Kuwait Manama Riyadh

42 42 42 45 39 42

28 31 28 29 30 27

WORLD Athens Baghdad Beijing Berlin Boston Cairo Colombo Frankfurt Hong Kong Istanbul Johannesburg Kuala Lumpur Lisbon Paris Perth Singapore Tokyo Toronto

25 41 36 23 24 31 29 23 30 23 23 31 23 20 22 33 28 11

18 29 23 14 11 18 26 14 27 16 7 24 17 12 11 27 20 8

L O N G D I S TA N C E B U S T I M I N G S ( O M A N N AT I O N A L T R A N S P O R T C O M PA N Y S A O C ) * S U B J E C T T O C H A N G E

FROM MUSCAT (RUWI)

TO MUSCAT (RUWI)

[JUNE 21-JULY 22] You’re not the kind to wonder about things you know you cannot control — but today you’ll be distracted by something on the periphery.

LEO [JULY 23-AUG. 22] You may have reason to celebrate when all is said and done, but by all means avoid anything that may appear premature or overeager.

VIRGO [AUG. 23-SEPT. 22] You may have to give instructions to those around you more than once.

In order to be clear, you may have to alter the way you speak.

LIBRA L [[SEPT. [S S 23-OCT. 22] You may have to wait for further instructions before you continue along your current path. Certain choices are best left to the boss!

SCORPIO S [[OCT. 23-NOV. 21] You may have to remind others that the best way is the simplest way. Any methods that seem overly complicated are best abandoned.

SAGITTARIUS S [[NOV. 22-DEC. 21] There are some who wish to replace you in your current position, but you’re not about to go anywhere — not just yet

CAPRICORN [DEC. 22-JAN 19] You must be ready to be on the move as soon as you have the opportunity.

Today is a good day to travel light.

QURIYAT - SUR - JAALAN (Route 36) Dept Destination Arrival Time Time 15:00 Quriyat 16:30 15:00 Sur 18:00 15:00 Jaalan 19:30 TO AL BURAIMI (Route 41) 06:30 Sohar 06:30 Buraimi 08:00 Buraimi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Buraimi 16.00 Sohar 16.00 Buraimi TO SINAW (Route 52) 17:30 Sinaw

Operating Days Daily Daily Daily

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (Route 36) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 05:30 Sur 06:45 Daily 05:30 Quriyat 08:30 Daily 05:30 Ruwi 10:00 Daily

08:50 11:00 14:30 15:45 17:40 18.35 20:20

Daily Daily Daily via Ibri Daily Daily Daily Daily

20:50

Daily

TO AL BURAIMI (Route 41) 07:00 Sohar 07:00 Ruwi 13:30 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 17:00 Ruwi TO SINAW (Route 52) 07:00 Ruwi

To Yanqul (Route 54) 14:30 Nizwa 14:30 Yanqul

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (Route 54) 08:00 Nizwa 08:00 Al Araqi

10:20 12:30

TO SUR (Route 55) 07:30 Sur 14:30 Sur TO FAHUD - YIBAL (Route 62) 06:30 Fahud 06:30 Yibal

08:55 11:40 20:20 14:55 17:40 19:20 22:15

Daily Daily Daily via Ibri Daily Daily Daily Daily

10:25

Daily

To Yanqul (Route 54) 06:00 Nizwa 06:00 Ruwi

08:40 11:00

Daily Daily

Daily Daily

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (Route 54) 15:40 Nizwa 15:40 Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

12:00 18:45

Daily Daily

TO SUR (Route 55) 06:00 Ruwi 14:30 Ruwi

10:45 19:00

Daily Daily

10:30 11:15

Daily Daily

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (Route 62) 12:30 Fahud 12:30 Ruwi

13:15 17:30

Daily Daily

TO MARMUL-SALALAH (Route 100) 07:00 Salalah 20:00 10:00 Marmul 20:30 10:00 Salalah 23:30 19:00 Salalah 07:40

Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO SALALAH -MARMUL (Route 100) 07:00 Ruwi 19:50 10:00 Marmul 13:15 10:00 Ruwi 22:30 19:00 Ruwi 07:30

Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO MARMUL (Route 101) 06:00 Marmul

Daily

TO MARMUL (Route 101) 06:00 Marmul

16:30

Daily

Daily

DUBAI TO SALALAH (Route 102) 15:00 Salalah 07:00

Daily

16:50

SALALAH TO DUBAI (Route 102) 15:00 Dubai 07:00 TO DUBAI (Route 201) 06:00 Sohar 06:00 Dubai 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Dubai 15:00 Sohar 15:00 Dubai

08:30 11:30 15:30 18:30 17:35 20:55

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

TO DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (Route 204) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 07:00 Fujairah 11.45 Daily 07:00 Sharjah 13.30 Daily 07:00 Dubai 14.00 Daily

TO DUBAI (Route 201) 07:30 Sohar 07:30 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Ruwi 15:30 Sohar 15:30 Ruwi

10:50 13:40 16:15 19:10 18:45 21:35

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

FROM DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (Route 204) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 16:00 Sharjah 16:30 Daily 16.00 Fujairah 18.15 Daily 16.00 Ruwi 23.00 Daily

LISTINGS

AQUARIUS [JAN. 20-FEB. 18] You are better than most, but not all. You’ll have the chance to watch someone who is better than you and learn an important lesson.

PISCES [Feb. 19-March 20] It’s not enough to bark orders at others; you must not only tell them exactly what to do, but inspire them to do it well!

ARIES [March 21-APRIL 19] You have a difficult choice to make.

Whatever you choose, you must never forget that this was an important turning point.

TAURUS [APRIL 20-MAY 20] You are not taking advantage of your native talents the way you could.

In this way, you’re reducing your advantage over a rival.

Sunset Sunrise (Tomorrow)

6:49pm 5:20am

High tide Low tide

7:00pm 1:51am

8:01am 1:24pm

SEA STATE: Rough along the Arabian Sea coast with a maximum wave height of 3.0 metres and slight along the rest of Oman’s coast with a maximum wave height of 1.25 metres.

HORIZONTAL VISIBILITY: Good over most of the Sultanate becoming poor during fog patches.

THE NEXT 48 HOURS OUTLOOK: Chances of clouds development and isolated rain over Al-Hajar mountains during afternoon. Chance of late night to early morning low level clouds or fog patches along the Arabian Sea coast. Mainly clear skies over the rest of the Sultanate.

Max

OMAN

CANCER

12.09pm 3.29pm 6.54pm 8.15pm 3.54am

AIRLINES

ainly clear skies over most of the Sultanate with chances of clouds development and isolated rain over Al-Hajar mountains towards afternoon and chances of late night to early morning low level clouds or fog patches along the coastal areas of Arabian Sea. EXPECTED WIND: Along the coastal areas of Oman Sea wind will be northeasterly light to moderate during day becoming southwesterly light at night and along the coastal areas of Arabian Sea wind will be southwesterly moderate to fresh while over rest of the Sultanate winds will be southeasterly light to moderate.

GEMINI You may be turned down at first, but later your request is likely to be granted by someone who suspects that you have a surprise in store.

PRAYER TIMINGS

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

PHARMACIES Round the clock Al Hashar Pharmacy, Ruwi: 24783334; Appolo Medical Centre, Hamriya: 24782666; Muscat Pharmacy, Ruwi: 24702542, Salalah: 23291635; Atlas Pharmacy, Ghubra: 24503585 Muscat Region Apollo, Al Hamriya. Tel: 24787766 Muscat, A Seeb Market. Tel: 24421691 Muscat, Al Khuwair. Tel: 24485740 Muscat, Al Hail South. Tel: 24537080 Dhofar Region Muscat, Al Nahdha Road, Salalah.

Tel: 23291635 HOSPITALS Al Amal Medical & Health Care Centre: 24485052 Atlas Hospital: Ruwi: 24811743/ Ghubra: 24504000 Al Musafir Specialised Medical Clinic: 24706453 Hatat Polyclinic LLC, Ruwi: 24563641, Azaiba: 24499269, Sohar: 2683006 Al Raffah Hospital: 24618900/1/2 Al Massaraat Clinic & Laboratory: 24566435 Al Makook Medical Coordinance Centre: 24499434 Apollo Medical Centre, Hamriya: 24787766, 24787780 Capital Polyclinic: 24707549 Badr Al Samaa Polyclinic, Ruwi: 24799760/1/2 Capital Clinic, Seeb: 24420740 Ceregem National Raak: 24485633 Dr Harub’s Clinic: 24563217 Elixir Health Centre: 24565802 Emirates Medical Centre: 24604540 1st Chiropractic Centre: 24472274 Hamdan Hospital: 23212340 International Medical Centre LLC: 24794501/2/3/4/5 Kims Oman Hospital: 24760100

24 Hrs Emergency: 24760123 Lama Polyclinic, Sohar: 26751128, MBD: 24799077, Al Khuwair: 24478818 Magrabi Eye and Ear Hospital: 24568870 Muscat Private Hospital: 24583600 Welcare Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, Al Khuwair: 24477666 Al-Hayat Polyclinc LLC: 22004000 ROYAL OMAN POLICE Emergencies and inquiries: 9999 General Directorate of Passport and Residence: 24569603 Directorate General of Customs: 24521109 Traffic violations inquiries: 24510228 Public Relations Admin: 24560099 ACCOMMODATION Al Bahjah Hotel: 24424400 Al Bustan Palace: 24764000 Al Khuwair Hotel Apartments: 24478171 Al Madina Holiday Inn: 24596400 Al Maha International Hotel: 24494949 Al Fanar Hotel: 24712385 Al Falaj Hotel: 24702311 Al Qurum Resort: 24605945 Azaiba Hotel Apartments: 24490979 Beach Hotel: 24696601 Bowshar Hotel: 24491105 Coral Hotel Muscat: 24692121 Crowne Plaza Muscat: 24660660 Crystal Suites: 24826100 Golden Tulip Seeb: 24510300 Grand Hyatt Muscat: 24641234 Haffa House Hotel: 24707207 Hotel Muscat Holiday: 24487123 InterContinental Muscat: 24680000 Majan Continental Hotel: 24592900 Marina Hotel: 24711711 Midan Hotel Suites: 24499565 Mina Hotel: 24711828 Muttrah Hotel: 24798401

Nuzha Hotel Apartments: 24789199 Oman Dive Centre: 24824240 Park Inn: 24507888 Qurum Beach House Hotel: 24564070 Radisson Blu Hotel: 24487777 Ramee Dream Resort Seeb: 24453399 Ramee Guestline Hotel: 24564443 Ruwi Hotel: 24704244 Safeer Hotel Suites: 24691200 Sheraton Oman Hotel: 24772772 Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa: 24776666 The Chedi Muscat: 24524400 The Treasurebox Muscat Hotel: 24502570 AIRLINE OFFICES Muscat Airport Flight information (24 hours): 24519456/24519223 Aeroflot: 24704455, Air Arabia: 24700828, Air France: 24562153, Air India: 24799801, Air New Zealand: 24700732, Biman Bangladesh Airlines: 24701128, British Airways: 24568777, Cathay Pacific: 24789818, Egypt Air: 24794113, Emirates Air: 24404400, Ethiopian Airlines: 24660313, Gulf Air: 80072424, Indian: 24791914, Iran Air: 24787423, Japan Airlines: 24704455, Jazeera Airways: 23294848, Jet Airways: 24787248, Kenya Airways: 24660300, KML Royal Dutch Airlines: 24566737, Kuwait Airways: 24701262, LOT Polish Airlines: 24796387, Lufthansa: 24796692, Malaysian Airlines: 24560796, Middle East Airlines: 24796680, Oman Air: 24531111, Pakistan International Airlines: 24792471, Qatar Airways: 24771900, Qantas: 24559941, Royal Jordanian: 24796693, Saudi Arabian Airlines: 24789485, Singapore Airlines: 24791233, Shaheen Air: 24816565, SriLankan Airlines:

24784545, Swiss International Airlines: 24796692, Thai Airways: 24705934, Turkish Airlines: 24703033 MUSEUMS Bait Al Baranda: Corniche (seafront opp fish market), Open from Saturday to Thursday 9am to 1pm and 4 to 6pm Natural History Museum: Al Khuwair, Tel: 24604957, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm; Thursday: 9am to 1pm Museum of Omani Heritage: (former Omani Museum), Madinat Al Alam, Sat-Wed 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday 9am to 1pm, Tel: 24600946 Armed Forces Museum: Bait Al Falaj, Tel: 24312651, Open from Sat to Wed: 8am to 1:30pm; Thurs 9-12pm and 3-6pm; Fri 9-11am and 3-6pm. Al Hoota Caves 24498258; Turtle Beach 96550606/96550707 Children’s Science Museum: Shatti Al Qurum, Tel: 24605368, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday: 9am to 1pm Oman-French Museum: near Muscat Police Station, Tel: 24736613, Open from Sat to Wed: 8am to 1:30pm, Thurs: 9am to 1pm Bait Al Zubair, Muscat: Tel: 24736688, Al Saidiya St., Muscat museum@baitalzubairmuseum.com Open from Sat to Thurs: 9:30am to 6pm.

National Museum Ruwi: Tel: 24701289, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday: 9am to 1pm Sohar Fort Museum: Tel: 26844758, Open from Saturday to Wed: 8 to 1:30pm Thurs: 9am to 1pm Muscat Gate Museum: at Al Bahri Road, Muscat open from Sat to Wed 8am to 2pm

SUNDAY FLT NO

ARRIVALS FROM

WY406 WY648 WY676 WY672 WY682 WY914 WY916 WY910 TK774 4H585 NL669 PK225 GF560 QR1132 ET624 EK866 EY384 FZ041 WY114 4H586 CV732 WY658 WY638 WY902 WY326 WY644 G9841 WY686 WY154 WY144 WY692 WY668 WY674 WY132 WY102 FZ043 WY602 NL768 WY272 WY202 WY3932 WY236 G9114 WY282 WY226 EK862 WY210 WY242 WY212 WY252 IX549 QR1128 IX817 EY382 IX443 9W530 WY3922 WY3302 WY604 WY918 GF562 FZ037 IX337 WY384 WY822 WY818 WY634 WY904 WY670 WY324 WY332 WY652 WY606 KU677 WY906 WY920 WY348 FZ045 WY3304 WY344 QR1126 WY204 WY632 WY292 WY264 WY664 EK864 WY246 WY232 WY610 GF564 WY656 TG507 G9116 WY374 WY646 FZ047 WY908 WY614 WY848 WY338 WY386 WY434 FZ049 WY124 9W534 AI973 6.00E+81 WY254 BA073 WY624 UL205 AI907 WY312 QR1134 LX242 GF566 LH616 EY388 WY414 WY910 9W540 AI985 WY662 WY654 WY636 WY928 WY816 WY696 WY612

MONDAY ETA

FLT NO

ARRIVALS FROM

CAIRO 0005 KUWAIT 0005 JEDDAH 0005 MEDINA 0005 RIYADH 0010 SALALAH 0020 SALALAH 0120 SALALAH 0130 ISTANBUL 0135 DACCA 0200 SIALKOT 0200 KARACHI 0210 BAHRAIN 0325 DOHA 0345 ADDIS ABABA 0350 DUBAI 0350 ABU DHABI 0400 DUBAI 0415 FRANKFURT 0515 DOHA 0600 LUXORE 0635 BAHRAIN 0635 ABU DHABI 0640 SALALAH 0645 KARACHI 0650 KUWAIT 0650 RAS AL KHAIMA 0655 RIYADH 0655 ZURICH 0700 MALPENSA 0705 DAMMAM 0715 DOHA 0715 JEDDAH 0735 PARIS 0735 LONDON HEATHROW 0740 DUBAI 0800 DUBAI 0805 LAHORE 0830 JAIPUR 0830 BOMBAY 0835 SOHAR 0840 HYDERABAD 0900 SHARJAH 0905 BANGALORE 0910 COCHIN 0920 DUBAI 0930 GOA 0935 DELHI 0935 TRIVANDRUM 0950 MADRAS 0955 TRIVANDRUM 0955 DOHA 1000 MANGALORE 1010 ABU DHABI 1010 COCHIN 1020 TRIVANDRUM 1045 DUQUM OMAN 1045 MUKHAIZNA 1110 DUBAI 1110 KHASAB 1115 BAHRAIN 1130 DUBAI 1140 CALICUT 1155 MALE 1210 KUALA LUMPUR-SINGAPORE 1215 BANGKOK 1220 ABU DHABI 1220 SALALAH 1230 DOHA 1250 KARACHI 1300 KATHMANDU 1305 BAHRAIN 1330 DUBAI 1340 KUWAIT 1405 SALALAH 1440 KHASAB 1445 ISLAM ABBAD 1515 DUBAI 1535 MUKHAIZNA 1550 LAHORE 1605 DOHA 1650 BOMBAY 1655 ABU DHABI 1710 CALICUT 1710 LUCKNOW 1740 DOHA 1745 DUBAI 1745 DELHI 1750 HYDERABAD 1750 DUBAI 1800 BAHRAIN 1810 BAHRAIN 1820 BANGKOK-KARACHI 1900 SHARJAH 1905 COLOMBO 1915 KUWAIT 1920 DUBAI 1940 SALALAH 2000 DUBAI 2025 JAKARTA 2035 KATHMANDU 2040 MALE 2045 TEHRAN 2055 DUBAI 2100 MUNICH 2105 COCHIN 2115 DELHI 2125 BOMBAY 2130 MADRAS 2135 LONDON HEATHROW-ABU DHABI 2140 DUBAI 2150 COLOMBO 2155 MADRAS 2200 CHITTAGONG 2210 DOHA 2225 ZURICH-DUBAI 2225 BAHRAIN 2240 FRANKFURT-DOHA 2245 ABU DHABI 2300 AMMAN 2300 SALALAH 2310 BOMBAY 2315 BOMBAY 2325 DOHA 2335 BAHRAIN 2340 ABU DHABI 2340 SALALAH 2345 BANGKOK 2350 DAMMAM 2355 DUBAI 2355

WY672 WY648 WY406 WY676 WY682 WY914 WY916 TK774 4H583 PK229 GF560 QR1132 ET624 EK866 EY384 FZ041 WY114 WY658 WY638 WY902 WY644 WY154 WY144 WY668 WY674 WY102 FZ043 WY422 WY602 WY346 WY342 WY272 WY202 WY236 G9114 WY226 EK862 WY210 WY242 WY212 WY252 QR1128 EY382 WY844 9W530 WY604 WY918 WY3302 GF562 FZ037 WY372 IX337 PA450 WY705 WY822 WY634 WY818 WY904 WY670 WY324 WY332 WY632 WY606 WY920 FZ045 WY3304 WY656 QR1126 WY204 WY292 WY264 WY664 EK864 WY232 WY246 WY254 WY284 WY3922 WY610 GF564 G9116 WY684 WY646 FZ047 WY614 WY848 WY338 WY434 FZ049 KL441 AI977 WY124 4H561 9W534 AI973 6.00E+81 BA073 WY624 WY906 AI907 WY312 QR1134 LX242 GF566 LH616 WY717 SG061 EY388 WY910 9W540 WY908 AI985 WY662 WY654 WY636 WY928 WY816 WY612 WY696

MEDINA 0005 KUWAIT 0005 CAIRO 0005 JEDDAH 0005 RIYADH 0010 SALALAH 0020 SALALAH 0120 ISTANBUL 0135 DACCA 0200 LAHORE 0215 BAHRAIN 0325 DOHA 0345 ADDIS ABABA 0350 DUBAI 0350 ABU DHABI 0400 DUBAI 0415 FRANKFURT 0515 BAHRAIN 0635 ABU DHABI 0640 SALALAH 0645 KUWAIT 0650 ZURICH 0700 MALPENSA 0705 DOHA 0715 JEDDAH 0735 LONDON HEATHROW 0740 DUBAI 0800 BEIRUT 0805 DUBAI 0805 ISLAM ABBAD 0815 LAHORE 0825 JAIPUR 0830 BOMBAY 0835 HYDERABAD 0900 SHARJAH 0905 COCHIN 0920 DUBAI 0930 GOA 0935 DELHI 0935 TRIVANDRUM 0950 MADRAS 0955 DOHA 1000 ABU DHABI 1010 MANILA 1020 TRIVANDRUM 1045 DUBAI 1115 KHASAB 1115 MUKHAIZNA 1120 BAHRAIN 1130 DUBAI 1140 COLOMBO 1140 CALICUT 1155 LAHORE 1215 DARESSLAM-ZANZIBAR 1215 KUALA LUMPUR-SINGAPORE 1215 ABU DHABI 1220 BANGKOK 1220 SALALAH 1230 DOHA 1250 KARACHI 1300 KATHMANDU 1305 ABU DHABI 1335 DUBAI 1340 KHASAB 1445 DUBAI 1535 MUKHAIZNA 1550 BAHRAIN 1635 DOHA 1650 BOMBAY 1655 CALICUT 1710 LUCKNOW 1740 DOHA 1745 DUBAI 1745 HYDERABAD 1750 DELHI 1750 MADRAS 1750 BANGALORE 1750 DUQUM OMAN 1755 DUBAI 1800 BAHRAIN 1810 SHARJAH 1905 RIYADH 1915 KUWAIT 1920 DUBAI 1940 DUBAI 2025 JAKARTA 2035 KATHMANDU 2040 TEHRAN 2055 DUBAI 2100 AMSTERDAM-DOHA 2105 BANGALORE-HYDERABAD 2105 MUNICH 2105 DACCA 2115 COCHIN 2115 DELHI 2125 BOMBAY 2130 LONDON HEATHROW-ABU DHABI 2140 DUBAI 2150 SALALAH 2155 MADRAS 2200 CHITTAGONG 2210 DOHA 2225 ZURICH-DUBAI 2225 BAHRAIN 2240 FRANKFURT-DOHA 2245 ZANZIBAR-DARESSLAM 2250 AHMEDABAD 2300 ABU DHABI 2300 SALALAH 2310 BOMBAY 2315 SALALAH 2320 BOMBAY 2325 DOHA 2335 BAHRAIN 2340 ABU DHABI 2340 SALALAH 2345 BANGKOK 2350 DUBAI 2355 DAMMAM 2355

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AI986 9W539 WY657 WY225 WY637 WY235 WY281 WY211 WY685 WY201 WY643 WY251 WY271 WY601 WY123 WY325 WY847 WY241 WY901 WY691 WY667 WY383 TK775 WY209 4H585 PK260 NL772 WY331 ET625 EK867 EY385 FZ042 QR1133 WY3931 4H586 GF561 WY3921 G9842 WY903 WY603 WY3301 CV732 WY917 WY347 WY669 WY323 FZ044 WY373 WY815 WY291 WY343 NL769 WY651 WY263 WY821 WY843 G9115 WY231 WY605 WY905 WY203 WY385 WY245 EK863 IX554 WY337 QR1129 IX818 EY383 IX442 WY311 9W533 WY919 GF563 FZ038 WY3303 WY253 IX350 WY633 WY113 WY663 WY631 WY143 WY645 WY655 WY101 WY153 WY927 WY405 WY413 WY433 WY609 KU678 WY907 WY675 FZ046 WY671 WY613 QR1127 WY623 WY681 WY647 WY909 GF565 EK865 WY695 WY653 WY661 G9117 WY913 TG508 WY635 FZ048 WY611 WY915 FZ050 WY421 WY817 9W529 6.00E+82 AI908 UL206 AI974 WY705 GF567 LX243 QR1135 BA072 WY673 EY381 LH617

BOMBAY 0020 BOMBAY 0020 BAHRAIN 0055 COCHIN 0105 ABU DHABI 0105 HYDERABAD 0110 BANGALORE 0110 TRIVANDRUM 0110 RIYADH 0115 BOMBAY 0115 KUWAIT 0120 MADRAS 0120 JAIPUR 0135 DUBAI 0145 MUNICH 0200 KARACHI 0210 JAKARTA 0215 DELHI 0215 SALALAH 0215 DAMMAM 0225 DOHA 0225 MALE 0230 ISTANBUL 0230 GOA 0255 DOHA 0300 PESHAWAR 0310 PESHAWAR 0330 KATHMANDU 0350 ADDIS ABABA 0450 DUBAI 0450 ABU DHABI 0500 DUBAI 0510 DOHA 0515 SOHAR 0635 DACCA 0700 BAHRAIN 0715 DUQUM OMAN 0745 RAS AL KHAIMA 0745 SALALAH 0750 DUBAI 0750 MUKHAIZNA 0800 HONG KONG 0800 KHASAB 0815 ISLAM ABBAD 0830 DOHA 0835 KARACHI 0835 DUBAI 0845 COLOMBO 0900 BANGKOK 0905 CALICUT 0915 LAHORE 0915 LAHORE 0930 BAHRAIN 0935 LUCKNOW 0940 SINGAPORE-KUALA LUMPUR 0945 MANILA 0955 SHARJAH 0955 HYDERABAD 1000 DUBAI 1020 SALALAH 1020 BOMBAY 1025 MALE 1040 DELHI 1040 DUBAI 1045 TRIVANDRUM 1045 KATHMANDU 1050 DOHA 1100 MANGALORE 1100 ABU DHABI 1105 COCHIN 1120 CHITTAGONG 1140 COCHIN 1145 KHASAB 1145 BAHRAIN 1215 DUBAI 1225 MUKHAIZNA 1230 MADRAS 1255 CALICUT 1255 ABU DHABI 1300 FRANKFURT 1320 DOHA 1330 ABU DHABI 1345 MALPENSA 1350 KUWAIT 1350 BAHRAIN 1400 LONDON HEATHROW 1400 ZURICH 1420 SALALAH 1430 CAIRO 1440 AMMAN 1440 TEHRAN 1445 DUBAI 1445 ABU DHABI-KUWAIT 1505 SALALAH 1540 JEDDAH 1615 DUBAI 1620 MEDINA 1705 DUBAI 1710 DOHA 1750 DUBAI 1840 RIYADH 1840 KUWAIT 1845 SALALAH 1850 BAHRAIN 1855 DUBAI 1910 DAMMAM 1915 BAHRAIN 1920 DOHA 1920 SHARJAH 1955 SALALAH 2000 KARACHI-BANGKOK 2005 ABU DHABI 2015 DUBAI 2025 DUBAI 2035 SALALAH 2100 DUBAI 2145 BEIRUT 2215 BANGKOK 2225 TRIVANDRUM 2230 BOMBAY 2245 MADRAS 2300 COLOMBO 2305 DELHI 2310 DARESSLAM-ZANZIBAR 2310 BAHRAIN 2325 DUBAI-ZURICH 2325 DOHA 2330 ABU DHABI-LONDON HEATHROW 2330 JEDDAH 2350 ABU DHABI 2355 DOHA-FRANKFURT 2355

AI986 9W539 WY657 WY225 WY637 WY211 WY235 WY201 WY643 WY345 WY271 WY341 WY601 WY371 WY123 WY901 WY847 WY241 WY667 TK775 WY209 4H584 PK226 WY331 EK867 ET625 EY385 FZ042 QR1133 GF561 WY603 WY903 WY3301 WY917 WY323 WY669 FZ044 WY633 WY815 WY253 WY291 WY263 WY717 WY821 G9115 WY231 WY283 WY631 WY605 WY203 WY245 EK863 WY337 QR1129 EY383 WY311 9W533 WY919 GF563 WY655 FZ038 WY3303 IX350 PA451 WY113 WY663 WY683 WY131 WY645 WY143 WY101 WY153 WY927 WY405 WY609 WY433 WY3921 WY675 FZ046 WY613 WY905 QR1127 WY681 WY623 WY647 WY909 GF565 WY907 EK865 WY695 WY661 WY653 G9117 WY913 WY635 FZ048 WY611 WY411 WY915 FZ050 AI978 4H561 KL442 WY817 9W529 6.00E+82 AI908 WY677 WY705 AI974 GF567 LX243 BA072 QR1135 WY673 LH617 EY381

BOMBAY 0020 BOMBAY 0020 BAHRAIN 0055 COCHIN 0105 ABU DHABI 0105 TRIVANDRUM 0110 HYDERABAD 0110 BOMBAY 0115 KUWAIT 0120 ISLAM ABBAD 0125 JAIPUR 0135 LAHORE 0145 DUBAI 0145 COLOMBO 0155 MUNICH 0200 SALALAH 0215 JAKARTA 0215 DELHI 0215 DOHA 0225 ISTANBUL 0230 GOA 0255 DACCA 0300 KARACHI 0315 KATHMANDU 0350 DUBAI 0450 ADDIS ABABA 0450 ABU DHABI 0500 DUBAI 0510 DOHA 0515 BAHRAIN 0715 DUBAI 0750 SALALAH 0750 MUKHAIZNA 0800 KHASAB 0815 KARACHI 0835 DOHA 0835 DUBAI 0845 ABU DHABI 0900 BANGKOK 0905 MADRAS 0915 CALICUT 0915 LUCKNOW 0940 ZANZIBAR-DARESSLAM 0940 SINGAPORE-KUALA LUMPUR 0945 SHARJAH 0955 HYDERABAD 1000 BANGALORE 1000 ABU DHABI 1015 DUBAI 1020 BOMBAY 1025 DELHI 1040 DUBAI 1045 KATHMANDU 1050 DOHA 1100 ABU DHABI 1105 CHITTAGONG 1140 COCHIN 1145 KHASAB 1145 BAHRAIN 1215 BAHRAIN 1215 DUBAI 1225 MUKHAIZNA 1230 CALICUT 1255 LAHORE 1315 FRANKFURT 1320 DOHA 1330 RIYADH 1335 PARIS 1345 KUWAIT 1350 MALPENSA 1350 LONDON HEATHROW 1400 ZURICH 1420 SALALAH 1430 CAIRO 1440 DUBAI 1445 TEHRAN 1445 DUQUM OMAN 1455 JEDDAH 1615 DUBAI 1620 DUBAI 1710 SALALAH 1735 DOHA 1750 RIYADH 1840 DUBAI 1840 KUWAIT 1845 SALALAH 1850 BAHRAIN 1855 SALALAH 1900 DUBAI 1910 DAMMAM 1915 DOHA 1920 BAHRAIN 1920 SHARJAH 1955 SALALAH 2000 ABU DHABI 2015 DUBAI 2025 DUBAI 2035 AMMAN 2100 SALALAH 2100 DUBAI 2145 HYDERABAD-BANGALORE 2200 JEDDAH 2215 DOHA-AMSTERDAM 2220 BANGKOK 2225 TRIVANDRUM 2230 BOMBAY 2245 MADRAS 2300 MEDINA 2310 DARESSLAM-ZANZIBAR 2310 DELHI 2310 BAHRAIN 2325 DUBAI-ZURICH 2325 ABU DHABI-LONDON HEATHROW 2330 DOHA 2330 JEDDAH 2350 DOHA-FRANKFURT 2355 ABU DHABI 2355

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EXTRA BRIEFS

Getting perfect pitch possible for some adult musicians PSYCHOLOGISTS at the University of Chicago have been able to train some adults to develop the prized musical ability of absolute pitch. Absolute pitch, commonly known as “perfect pitch”, is the ability to identify a note by hearing it.

It has always been a very desired ability among musicians, especially since several famous composers, including Mozart, had it. “This is the first significant demonstration that the ability to identify notes by hearing them may be something that individuals can be trained to do,” said Howard Nusbaum, professor of psychology, University of Chicago. “It’s an ability that is teachable, and it appears to depend on a cognitive ability of holding sounds in one’s mind,” Nusbaum pointed out.

Migraine surgery found to be effective among teens MIGRAINE SURGERY is effective among selected adolescent patients that don’t respond to standard treatment, a recent study shows. Scientists report good outcomes in an initial experience with migraine surgery in younger patients. Migraine headaches are a common issue among children and adolescents, and have a significant impact on mental and physical health for patients and their families. “Our data demonstrate that surgery for refractory migraine headaches in the adolescent population may improve and potentially completely ameliorate symptoms for some,” said Bahman Guyuron, emeritus professor of plastic surgery at Case School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, US.

There are far more charged particles beside busy roads

Your Instagram photos aren’t really yours The Internet is the place where nothing goes to die

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hose embarrassing photos of your high school dance you marked “private” on Facebook? The funny Instagram posts? The NSFW snapchats? If you use social media, you’ve probably heard a warning akin to “don’t post anything you wouldn’t want your employer (or future employer) to see.”

We agree, and are adding this caveat: Don’t post anything you wouldn’t want hanging in an art gallery.

This month, painter and photographer Richard Prince reminded us that what you post is public, and given the flexibility of copyright laws, can be shared — and sold — for anyone to see.

As a part of the Frieze Art Fair in New York, Prince displayed giant screenshots of other people’s Instagram photos without warning or permission.

The collection, “New Portraits,” is primarily made up of

pictures of women, many in sexually charged poses. They are not paintings, but screenshots that have been enlarged to 6-foot-tall inkjet prints. According to Vulture, nearly every piece sold for $90,000 each.

How is this OK? First you should know that Richard Prince has been “re-photographing” since the 1970s. He takes pictures of photos in magazines, advertisements, books or actors’ headshots, then alters them to varying degrees. Often, they look nearly identical to the originals. This has of course, led to legal trouble.

In 2008, French photographer Patrick Cariou sued Prince after he re-photographed Cariou’s images of Jamaica’s Rastafarian community. Although Cariou won at first, on appeal, the court ruled that Prince had not committed copyright infringement because his works were “transformative.”

This month, painter and photographer Richard Prince reminded us that what you post is public, and given the flexibility of copyright laws, can be shared — and sold — for anyone to see

In other words, Prince could make slight adjustments to the photos and call them his own.

This is what he did with the Instagram photos. Although he did not alter the usernames or the photos themselves, he removed captions. He then added odd comments on each photo, such as “DVD workshops. Button down. I fit in one leg now.

Will it work? Leap of faith” from the account “richardprince1234.”

The account currently has 10,200 followers but not a single picture — perhaps so you can’t steal his images in return? New Portraits first debuted last year at Gagosian Gallery on Madison Avenue, the same location where the artist displayed the Rastafarian images he was sued for.

Knowing that more legal action is unlikely, Prince appears to be enjoying the attention. He has been re-tweeting and re-posting his many critics.-Jessica Contrera/The Washington Post

A NEW study has found that there are far more charged particles beside busy roads than under high-voltage power lines. A study by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) researchers found that within 10 metres of a freeway, charged particles were up to 15 times more concentrated than beneath highvoltage power lines. “Although the effects of ions and charged particles generated by high-voltage power lines on human health is still open to conjecture, there has been a lot of attention on increased exposure due to expanding power networks in urban residential areas,” said researcher Rohan Jayaratne. -IANS

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EXTRA B O L LY W O O D

Shilpa Shetty takes Bollywood to London via radio

ACTRESS Shilpa Shetty, who found popularity in Britain after winning a season of Celebrity Big Brother in 2007, has turned into a radio jockey to talk about Bollywood with the people in London.

She will be on a special show on BBC Radio 2. The actress, took to microblogging site Twitter to share details of the show, which will go live in September. “Working day today in London. Recording for a series of shows introducing Bollywood to the Mainstream here on BBC Radio 2. Goes on air in September,” Shilpa tweeted.

Saif, Kareena off to Maldives for family vacation

WHY FRANK SINATRA STILL MATTERS Let’s get one thing straight. There can’t be another Frank. These days, you don’t operate on that plane and get away with it

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ith Frank’s 100th birthday approaching, I’ve been talking Sinatra over the last week, on the phone, at neighbourhood barbecues, with other music fans. I’ve been throwing on his records, from the classics (Come Dance With Me!) to the spottier (Trilogy: Past, Present, Future), sifting through good books and that Kitty Kelley paperback and scouring YouTube for every scrap of visual data.

Truth is, celebrity anniversaries are nothing more than dates and dates nothing more than marketing opps for album reissues, tribute concerts and related product. But for me, an unrepentant fan, it’s a great time to remind everyone why Frank still matters.

It goes well beyond the toughguy themes, torch songs and “Duets” albums that, while sterile and disappointing, launched an entire industry of songbook-styled projects. Some of them are even quite wonderful.

Presence What’s most startling, when you focus on Frank, is how ever-present he is 18 years after his death, how regularly he bullies his way into your living room.

There he is, on David Letterman’s Late Show farewell week, channelled through Bob Dylan, the greatest songwriter of our time, who decided to croon a classic made famous by Sinatra. There’s The Theme to New York, New York, played 81 nights a season, without fail, after the final out at Yankee Stadium. Even in death, Frank can insert himself into the middle of a nasty domestic squabble. Third wife Mia Farrow taking a swipe at Woody Allen by suggesting that Ol’ Blue Eyes, not her film-directing ex, may have fathered son Ronan.

And his staying power is undeniable, even as the icons of yesteryear — Ray Charles, Liz Taylor, even Hemingway — fade away.

“As far as touching him goes, nobody touches him,” Dylan said in a surprisingly personal interview earlier this year, explaining why his new record featured 10 songs made famous by Sinatra. “Not me or anyone else.”

“The word ‘icon’ is much overused, but if it applies to anyone in American popular culture, it is Frank Sinatra,” critic Terry Teachout said in the Alex Gibney documentary that aired on HBO in April, Sinatra: All or Nothing at All. Beyond imitation Let’s play a quick parlour game.

Try to come up with a contemporary equivalent of Sinatra. I tried. You can at least take a good stab with Jimmy Stewart (Tom Hanks), John Wayne (Clint Eastwood) or Jackie Wilson (Bruno Mars.) With Sinatra, you’ll need to combine superpowers, taking Robert Downey Jr.’s swagger, Beyonce’s Forbesian reach and Justin Timberlake’s triple-threat skills. And that still doesn’t fill out the man.

“He conquered every medium — television, recording, films,” Tony Bennett said after his death. “He was just born for what he did.”

The “fully emancipated male,” Gay Talese called Sinatra in his famous 1966 Esquire profile, “Frank Sinatra Has a Cold.”

Then take on that other quote, the one that sounds, at first blush, like enough jive to knock your DeSoto out of second gear.

This, to me, is about authenticity. It’s a word often tossed around but rarely practiced. It is about being real in everything you do, on or off stage. Remaining authentic is no small feat when you’re hanging around presidents and movie stars, selling millions of records, and when your very identity comes from singing songs written by others.

Yet Sinatra, with all of his

He conquered every medium — television, recording, films. He was just born for what he did.

Tony Bennet Singer

qualities and flaws, remained completely authentic. As a singer, he didn’t just adapt, he crawled into each phrase. On those rare moments were he chose poorly — listen to his corny take on the Beatles classic Something — the singer still feels 100 per cent committed. As a public figure, he never hid, whether accused of having ties with the Mafia or playing out his marital splits in public. There would be no joint press releases on a “conscious uncoupling” with Gardner, Farrow or anyone. To the end, Frank confessed that he knew nothing more than the average galoot.

“I’m supposed to have a Ph.D. on the subject of women,” he is quoted in Bill Zehme’s wonderful “The Way You Wear Your Hat: Frank Sinatra and the Lost Art of Livin.”

“But the truth is I’ve flunked more often than not. I’m very fond of women; I admire them. But, like all men, I don’t understand them.”

Reinvention He came from a different world.

Frank Sinatra was born in 1915, before TV, before radio, to a pair of Italian immigrants. He grew up in Hoboken, dropped out of high

school and then, after working an odd job or two, scored a recording contract with bandleader Harry James. That led to the Tommy Dorsey band, fame and the first stage of his career as the babyfaced big-band crooner.

Eventually, everything came apart: his first marriage, to Nancy Barbato; his singing career (Columbia Records cut him loose in 1952); and his confidence. In the early ‘50s, Sinatra tried to kill himself, once with sleeping pills, a second time by slashing his wrists. (He denied the attempts.)

It wasn’t until his Academy Award for best supporting actor in 1953’s From Here to Eternity that Sinatra’s luck seemed to change.

He signed with Capitol Records and reinvented himself. He sang in a lower register and his material stretched, from winks and highballs to smoky, dark confessions.

“At times, the lowest note of a melody becomes almost spoken, giving him a much greater sense of intimacy,” Elvis Costello wrote in Mojo.

These days, we marvel at the entertainers atop the Forbes list, Dr. Dre raking in hundreds of millions from headphones, Taylor Swift defying all with her Spotify grab.

Frank Sinatra did this 60 years ago, at a point when artists were usually too busy being ripped off to become corporations. Yet Frank had “his own film company, his own record company, his private airline, his missile-parts firm, his real-estate holdings across the nation, his personal staff of seventyfive,” as Talese wrote. (Sinatra also, the writer revealed, had a woman on his payroll at $400 a week to follow him around with one of his many hairpieces.)

As far as he got from New Jersey, as much as he reinvented himself — there was the second “retirement” in 1971, before a return two years later — Frank never forgot his roots. He took pride in

his Italian heritage, even if part of that pride came from feeling mistreated because “my name ends with a vowel.”

How much was true, how much was simply who he hung out with?

The FBI had more than 1,000 pages on Sinatra, but never charged him with anything. Mario Puzo created the fictionalised Johnny Fontane in The Godfather, a crooner whose career is saved multiple times, in ways mirroring Sinatra’s life, by the Corleone family.

The Song There are a lot of Sinatra albums and a lot of people who have pontificated on them. Most start by praising 1957’s ode to pathos, Only the Lonely.

But to me, the greatest Frank record is from a June show in 1962.

He’s playing with his sextet in Paris, and it’s as loose as a show can get. “It’s obvious what his trouble is — girls,” Frank tells the audience as he introduces the saloon ballad One for My Baby. Cherche la femme. Which in French means ‘why don’t you share the broad with me’?”

At other moments, he coughs, clears his throat and apologises.

“I’ve gotta stop sleepin’ in the park.”

Jokey or not, his performance is impeccable, whether swinging through Goody, Goody and Without a Song or breathlessly roaming through the verses of My Funny Valentine and One for My Baby.

More than anything, this performance — stripped down from his orchestral heft and captured in its entirety, unlike the other live recordings released during his lifetime — gets to the essence of what made Sinatra Sinatra.

It is how a man takes a song written by somebody else, performs it for decades, and it still sounds as fresh, pained and passionate as the first time it emerged. It is a special gift.

-Geoff Edgers/The Washington Post

IT’S HOLIDAY time for Bollywood couple Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan. The couple is off to explore the pristine beauty of Maldives amid greenery and idyllic beaches with family. Saif’s sister Soha, who is accompanying them with her husband and actor Kunal Kemmu, shared a photograph of their jaunt with a caption “Touchdown in the Maldives!”. They are on five-day vacation as Soha had earlier shared on Twitter with a post that read: “And we re off on a five day holiday to the Maldives.”

Anil Kapoor smitten by Dubai’s culture

ACTOR Anil Kapoor is impressed by the culture in the Middle East. The actor, who is in Dubai for an award show, says the place has a “piece of his heart”. “#Dubai! You’ll always have a piece of my heart. Judging by the frequency of my visits, u may have to adopt me soon,” Anil tweeted.

Kapoor is awaiting release of his next film, Zoya Akhtar’s Dil Dhadakne Do, which narrates tale of a dysfunctional Punjabi family on a cruise. The actor will be seen in the role of a patriarch of the family. -IANS

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We have 2 BHK Flat in Ghubra near sea, 2 rooms with sitting hall, kitchen & 3 bathrooms only 350/R.O. Contact 93782735 / 99208033 Single family Hamriya Bed room with bath, hall and small kitchen R.O 135/- rent including W/E. Contact: 99489548 We have 5 BHK villas in Al Khuwair near Taymour Mosque commercial villa good for office, companies & families. Contact: 93782735 / 99208033 Executive 3 bedroom flat all attached with bathroom, air condition curtains, sitting room and big varanda R.O 400/- Athaiba round about behind bank Muscat Sohar Building way No 4216 HSE No 1067. Contact: Owner 99331413 / 99105169

2 BR flat for rent in Wadi Kabir Mazoon Building, behind Wadi Kabir Garden, very close to Al Maha petrol pump. Rent RO 275 PM. Call 99440826 2 bedroom flat for rent in Azaiba near Mitsubishi showroom .

Rent 300/-. Contact : 92447365 2 BHK Apartment for rent near MSQ area. Please contact 92888063 2000 sqm Commercial land for lease in Ghala. Please contact 98154444 1 Villa & 4 big apartments of 2/3 BHK with hall, Kitchen & ACs Al Khoudh 6. Tel 97600322 alnehang@gmail.com

Villa for rent with 4 bedroom at Al Khodh, Rent 600/-RO.#92888115 We have, 2BHK flat in Mabela 7, 2 rooms, sitting hall, kitchen & 2 bathrooms only 200/- R.O. Contact 93782735/ 99208033 Flat for rent South Ghubrah 3 bedrooms, 3 bath rooms & kitchen with A.C. Contact: 97896982 3 rooms with attached bath room, hall Brand new in Mabelah near Sharahe Noor. Contact 99663905/ 99415119 Three new Executive flats opposite grand mall 287, 273 & 219 m2 respectively, Elevator available.

Contact: 99207840 Three bedrooms flat, first floor Al Rawdha Street Al Hail North.

Contact: 99207840 1BHK flats at Muttrah near Oman House. Contact: 93231403 Flat for rent in Al Hamriyah, 3 rooms & accessories.

Contact: 99341112

5000 sqm prime indusial land in Misfah, Bausher, with 550 sqm of covered warehouse and office space, for rent only.

Contact: + 968 – 99264162 1BHK, 2BHK, 3BHK new flat available at Mabela in front of Modern English School Contact: 96239126 Deluxe 1, 2 BHK flats in Darsait, AL Khuwair 1deal for office & residence. Contact 99369081 /99142314 1,000 sq mtrs industrial land in Misfah Industrial area near to Khanco. OMR 1,500 Monthly. It has Electricity and boundary wall.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 1-BHK apartment available for immediate occupancy from June 1st in Azaibah next to Al Meera hypermarket, close to highway and 18-November St. Call 93504997 for viewing.

Deluxe 3 Room Penthouse with Seaview, ideal for office / residence at Qurum near PDO. Contact: 97721313 / 9507 0421

Flat at Darsait. Contact 99326879 3000 sq mtrs Industrial landß, in Barka Sanaiya, with electricity 400KW, shed, staff accommodation and office. Ready to start any kind of factory. Contact 99384255.

For rent new building 2 & 3 BHK flats at Wadi Al Kabir behind Muscat Bakery. Contact: 99338133 Commercial villa 10 BHK Al Khuwair 25 near HTC. Contact: 94300909 Showroom 606 sqm Bousher height. Contact: 94300909 Independent villa in Darsait (Opp. KIMS Hospital, behind Khimji Mart) for rent 4 bedrooms, big hall and 1 kitchen + 1 pantry. Please call Ms Hiba Shaikh.

Contact 98048210/ Mr. Anil Kumar 99261773 Villa for rent in Azaiba near well roundabout & Umm AL Qura Mosque, 5 bedrooms, two hall, kitchen. Contact: Mr Sunil 92887809/ Mr. Habib 98048207

2 bedroom flat new building in Wadi Kabir. Contact 99313274 Spacious 1& 2 BH flats having good finishing A/C kitchen etc, AL Khuwair near Al Zawawi mosque. Contact: 99385074 3 bedrooms flat for rent near NIT Institute Darsait. Contact 93494098 Apartments for rent Ghubra : near Indian School Ghubra & Al Maha International Hotel (2BHK with 5 split A/C units).Contact 99273774 / 99202278 /94652485 1 Bedroom bachelors, sharing K & T in Al Khuwair R.O 100/-.

Contact 95154331 506 sqm space with mezzanine available for rent in Al Wadi Al Kabir. Suitable for carpentry / auto workshop and /or electrical shop.

Interested parties may Contact 24703981 Labor camp available with all facilities at Sohar Falaij (Near Sohar Sea port) - Contact – 92982172

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DAILY GUIDE

FOR RENT

Furnished flats for rent in Al Buraimi, daily, weekly, monthly.

Contact 97819981 / 93593336

Showroom for rent 200 m in Al Misfah, Bousher facing the main road. Contact 95202430

Villa for rent - Al Seeb/Al Mawelah - Block 5 - 4 bedrooms with attached bathrooms, Majlis, 2 halls, kitchen and storeroom. split Ac and carpark.

Contact 99564616

New building, residential apartments and offices, in Al Khoud Souq. Contact 95202340

Flat for rent in Ruwi, CBD. Contact: 92820734 1 BHK Flat in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 92275454 Flat or rent in Al Khuwair 33.

Contact: 92277419 2BHK flat with store room, split A/cs in CBD, Ruwi near QNB. Rent 400/-.Contact 99603696

Flat for rent 1 & 2 bedroom available behind Zaker Mall Al Khuwair.

Contact - 99530405

FOR SALE MV. SALE

Ghubra near Al Maha hotel & Indian school (2BHK with 5 split ac units). Contact 94652485/ 99273774 / 99202278 Labour camp for Rent in Wadi Kabir. Contact 99797422 Room main road, Al Khuwair R.O 110/-. Contact 97799175

Short term quick rental wanted (3 months) 2 bedroom flat (brand new).

Attached bathroom for each room. near school. Well-equipped ac only 200 OMR/month location: Al Hail South. Contact:99549745

For rent 3 industrial land.

Contact 92702891/ 95490842

2 BHK with A/C Muttrah near Oman house. Contact: 99896838

1& 2BHK for rent at Wadi Kabir, Hilal Al Sad and Al Khoud areas .

Contact Office: 24834644 Mobile: 93994401/02/03

Running restaurant going for sale in Ibri. Contact: 96774871

Flat for rent, 2 BK near Kuwaiti Mosque, Wadi Kabir. Contact 97007934 / 92629232

Curtain shop for immediate sale South Al Hail with 2 clearance.

Contact: 99041337

2 BHK with A/C Ghobrah.

Contact: 92144045 Flats for rent near Indian school in Wadi Kabir. Contact 99777122

1/3 BHK Flat Ghubrah, close to ISG Way 4041, building 4390.

Contact 99319880

Mezzanine floor office space for rent area 200 sq. Contact 97175979 / 99001341

Flat for rent 2 BK near Oman House Muttrah. Contact 97007934 / 92629232

Flat with 2 rooms, toilet & kitchen in second floor in Souk Al Khoud behind bank Al Ahli 200/- R.O .

Contact : 99738881

If require flats for rent in Wadi Kabir please send me messages through whatsapp or call 99376454

One BHK flat for rent in Ghobra with attach and common bathroom. For Indian family. Contact 92322096

Spacious 2 BHK flats in Ruwi MBD area only on 350/- OMR. Contact – 95122188 / 96441499

Flats for rent in Wadi Kabeer.

Contact : 92800007

Studio flat Wadi Kabeer 160/-O.R. Contact - 99358589 / 97079146/ 95570288

3 flats for rent 3 bedrooms include A/C, near the highway (Bowshar Amerat). Contact 97777911 / 95533777

1BHK flat near star cinema with split A/C 230/- O.R. Contact 99358589/ 97079146/95570288

1st floor flat in Amerat Phase 5, 4 rooms, bathrooms (3), kitchen with A/C for family. # 95522405

Villa in Al Khuwair and Seeb.

Contact 95250300/ 99119699 / 92125648

2BHK at Al Azaiba, 2bedrooms, 1 hall & dinning , 3 bathrooms.

Contact : 99224748 / 99425665

Industrial land for rent in Wadi Kabir 7000 Sq mtrs.

Contact 99354340

2 BHK & studio flat at Darsait 1SM. Contact 99024730

Flats/villas owned by ROP pension fund available for rent in Muscat. Contact 99349526

Flats shops and store for rent in Ruwi, MBD Honda road.

Contact 97293708 / 92433127 Bath attached room for rent Al Khuwair. Contact 99743569

FOR SALE

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

Port cabin new & refurbished – porta cabin for sale & rent.

Contact: 96723468 / 97775501 / 97775502

Best Investment opportunity in Muscat a brand new furnished show room for electronics building, material mobiles etc available for sale at prime location. Contact : 91710624 / 98873484 Running computer shops for sale Souq Sohar. Contact 99420543 Shfandish & tables for sale.

Contact 99368907 Restaurant for sale well running with open area and good parking area. 3 new clearance also in Wadi Kabeer near Mars hyper market.

Contact 99656863 2,560 sq mtrs industrial land Wadi Kabir Main Road, First line on way to Al Bustan hotel. Possible to make petrol station or hotel. OMR 990 Thousand Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 5 Flats of 1 bedroom for Sale in Boushar: OMR 35 Thousand each.

Monthly income OMR 270 Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Coffee shop for sale in North Al Ghubra. Contact 95256009 Well equiped and running condition Restaurant for sale. Contact: 97710015 / 92934027 near Missfah Khanco Road Cement Factory

23,886 Sq Mtrs Agriculture land with water well in Al Salwa, Barka.

OMR 260 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 3 floor commercial building in Muttrah behind Police. Generating income of OMR 18 Thousand annually. Neat and well maintained. Built on 197 sq mtrs land. 2 tailor shops on ground floor and 6 flats. OMR 207 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 558 Sq mtrs residential land in Barka (Al Jenainah) near Lulu and near to school. OMR 32 Thousand.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Ladies beauty parlor for sale in Muttrah, above Ahla Sceps Market.

Contact : 93231403 Residential land for sale 21000 sqm, best for housing complex at Al Harm – Barka, opp to Khimji logistic. Contact 99438397 60,000 Sq Mtrs Agriculture Land in Misfah, can be changed to Industrial Land. OMR 27 Per Square Meter.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Shopping center for sale at Bousher by good price 400 m2 with all equipment. Reason for selling part-time. Contact 92916490

LOST Mohammed Nazir Myahi has lost Bangladeshi Passport No. AA 8435785.

Finder please handover to ROP.

2 Prime Movers Man 2008 with 40 ton petrol tank each working at the moment in Al Maha. Price OMR 35 Thousand each. Contact 97000155 or 92688692

Land Cruiser 2012. Contact 99336093

2013 LEXUS ES350 for Sale 40,000 km Full Option Gold Color Bought from Bahwan dealership Price: 13,500 Riyals Call: 9291 2660

Fork Lift for rent or sale Nissan 3.5 Ton. Contact: 94102899

ACC. AVAILABLE

1BHK available Mumtaz area Ruwi.

Contact: 99269751

2 Rooms with separate bathroom & kitchen for executive bachelors.

Gsm 942-888-63 Furnished /independent room with bathroom for Executive bachelor near Oman House. Contact : 98796982 Family room available at Muttrah.

Contact: 24712088 / 99022790 Fully furnished room attached bath for Executive bachelor behind Al Meera hypermarket Azaiba R.O 150/-Contact : 99455735 Furnished room available for Executive bachelor in Ghala near Oman LNG building. Contact: 93980900 Single room for Indian Executive bachelor near Al Khuwair R/A .

Contact 99659513 Single room with AC, separate toilet, kitchen at Al Hail highway side.

Contact: 92968292 Bath attached room for rent at Al Amerat. Contact 99008803 Excellent room, with A/C kitchen available from June/ July 1st, near ONTC Bus station (Ruwi). #95569740 Independent rooms in Qurum / Al Hail. Contact 95529970

Peugeot 206-2007 Model, expat driven. Contact 99209285

ACC. AVAILABLE

Furnished room attached bath for Indian bachelor - Al Falaj area & for lady at Wadi kabir (Al Maya) 95941515.

Sharing for non-cooking Executive bachelor in CBD area wi fi free, advance deposit. Contact 95934642 Single room for executive bachelor near AL Falaj Hotel. #99643845 Sharing accommodation available opposite Mars at Al Ghubra for Executive bachelor or small family sharing, kitchen.# 94474351 / 96237050 Accommodation available for South Indian family, one bedroom with attached toilet, kitchen, hall in a villa, Al Ghubrah. Contact 99209160 Sharing acc. Available in Muttrah behind Oman house.

Contact 99354340 Sharing family accommodation in Wadi Kabir. Contact 99335057 Room with attached bath, kitchen in Ghala. Contact: 99334770

WANTED Treadmill –motorized. Contact: 99378397

D4

S U N DAY, M AY 3 1 , 2 0 1 5 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT SECRETARIAL & OFFICE Required Office Assistant 160+25+Acc, Contact 99454425

SKILLED LABOUR Wanted experienced female tailor from Philippines. Contact: 99466062

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Indian CA with 15 yrs exp working as Finance Head for MNC looking for suitable job.

NOC available. 94047434 Indian male 26 years having 2 years of experience in financial accountant looking for accountant job.

Contact: 00968 97483234

ADMIN Omani lady HR Manager for a leading metal fabrication company. Min. 5 yrs exp, familiar with Oman labor Laws. Responsibilities – Making HR policies, Training of Omanis, liaising with various Ministries. Contact: operation@khancogroup.com

ACCOUNTANT Assistant Accountant experience: 2 years. Contact: 24703484 / 96918100 Email: om.omanlights@gmail.com

ARCHITECT / DRAFTSMAN Urgently Required: Draftsman Temporary for 1 month. Apply, fax 00968–24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com.

Leading Construction company requires MEP Draftsman and Civil Draftsman with 5 to 7 years gulf experience with NOC available.

Send your CV to recruitment1947@gmail.com

BEAUTICIAN Urgently required Indian experience beautician, good salary + Accommodation + Food visa Available location Al Hail.

Contact: 92284899 / 92139922 Beautician required with good experience visa available.

Contact: 95867900

DRIVER Omani family looking for full time lady driver. Contact: 91401838

EDUCATION Teachers required (B.A, BEd, BSc, and B.ed) for Omani Pvt. School Al Hail (North). Contact 95141554/ 96653118

ENGINEER Construction Company require Civil Engineer, minimum 2 year’s Gulf experience. Contact: 93806556 A reputed water treatment company is looking for 10 years experienced Civil Engineer with driving license. Knowledge of civil works, QS. Apply : md.mohamed@gmail.com Electrical Engineer having 3 years gulf experience with driving license.

Contact: 24703484 / 96918100 Email: om.omanlights@gmail.com Urgently required Site Engineers & all kinds of civil construction workers for a reputed construction company. Interested candidates can send your CV’s to mohamed@oasisgrace. com, contact 99881459, 24826566, fax: 24812226

IT Website Graphic Designer, .Net/ Oracle Certified Developer, Systems Analyst, Software Business Developer/Marketer. hr@takweenit.net

CATERING MEDICAL Looking for a Restaurant Manager for a well known restaurant in Muscat, with atleast 2 years of work experience in Oman. Candidate must have a valid Omani driving license, excellent marketing and communication skills and an eagerness to work. For enquiries and interview contact: 92978956 or 94027151.

Shawarma /Arabic/Chinese/ cook & helper. Contact 95529970 Well trained, with military base experience catering staff available for contractual catering operation.

Cook – 08, Waiter - 6, Utility worker - 6, Supervisor-1. Contact: 97984335

DOMESTIC HELPER Wanted full time Indian Housemaid for Indian Muslim family. Should be skilled in preparation of Non-Veg dishes. Preferably from Hyderabad, India. Company visa, good salary + bonus, air –ticket for leave travel provided by company.

Contact 99349924.

An Indian family in Al Ghubra requires a full time living housemaid.

Contact : 97084023 Required looking for full time Housemaid preface Indian / Sri Lanka for Omani family at Mabela, visa available. Contact: 92454170 Urgent required House maid in Mabela. Visa available.

Contact- 95200180.

DRIVER A well reputed steel fabrication & machining Workshop Company in Oman requires forklift operator with valid Oman license.

Contact 92746349 Email: mydeen@midest.com

Wanted Female Nurse with or without MOH license for a Polyclinic.

Salary negotiable.

Contact: 97091664, 97327175.

Email: mmcmuscat@gmail.com Required a MOH licensed female Nurse for a private clinic near Al-Suwaiq. Call 93746086 Wanted Nurse for a dental centre in Mawaleh South. Interested may contact 93431024 Required Nurse for a Clinic in Al Buraimi, S. Of Oman.

Contact: 00968 92737149. Send CV to drpkabbas@yahoo.co.in Urgent required staff Nurse in Mabela. Contact- 95200180.

Urgently required Staff Nurse, Pharmacist and endodontist Female Staff nurse, Pharmacist and endodntist with MOH License/Prometric exam passed with 60% and above.

Contact 24780088, 97374459 Email : karamadental@gmail.com Immediate placement ( with or without MOH) A. Pharmacist 3 nos B. Asst.pharmacist - 2 nos Contact Tel.99338219 , 93240949 Wanted Lady Doctor GP or Gynecologist with MOH license.

Immediate opportunity.

Contact - 99310590

MISCELLANEOUS Vinyl Applicators (preferably for vehicles), Metal Fabricators.

Contact 98918344 Required Salesman, Tailor and Barber. Contact : 96964767

SALES / MARKETING Urgently required Sales and Marketing Executive for Graphic designing company.

Contact: 96727631 mail: smartgraphic518@gmail.com Sales man for electrical and building material Items, experience: 2 years with driving license. Contact: 24703484 / 96918100 Email: om.omanlights@gmail.com Required Indian Salesman for a Spare parts Company, Good salary package and visa will be offered for suitable candidates. Can send CV on alrabhe@omantel.net.om Salesman with driving license for company. Contact: 96440587 Furniture company urgently seeks outdoor sales team, attractive salaries for right candidates. Contact: batrading2014@gmail.com Required Sales Staff for a reputed insurance Broker male / Omani.

Contact at 97619595 or send CV to msaif@ace-ins.com website: ace-ins.com Marketing Representative – General items, Experience: Minimum 2 - 3 years, Should have knowledge about Oman market, Valid Oman Driving License must Forward CV to hr@barikgroup.com Urgently required out door Sales Executive for furniture company, minimum 5 years experience with Oman D/L. Contact: 93231403 Looking for smart & intelligent female Telesales Executive/Sales coordinator with IT background, 2-3 yrs experience with clear & commanding voice, good & effective communication, correspondence and coordination skills.

Send your resume to 002atech@gmail.com Urgently need a Marketing Executive to develop marketing campaigns to promote company’s product &service. He/She should have 2-3 years in organizing events, product branding, Social Media marketing, Email Marketing and Web Site promotion. Send your resume to 002atech@gmail.com Looking for a Retail Sales Executive & 3-5 yrs experience in selling building material, structure cabling, Access control, and CCTV products & motivated by sales and targets.

Candidate with Omani D/L will be given preference. Send your resume to 002atech@gmail.com Required Van Salesman for a major beverages company in Qatar. Salary 1800 Qatar Riyal + free accomodation & food+ Sales commissions averaging around 2000 Qatari Riyal.

Also require key accounts supervisor. Salary negotiable. Interested candidates may send their CV to rlkekkas@gmail.com or Contact 0097455096272 Required Sales man - 1 Person Qualification. Gulf Experienced - Minimum 5 Years with Oman Driving Licence Language - English Education:- Any Degree Further Contact :Mr. Abdul Hameed Nashabat - Mobile No: 97414307 and -92807399 amn@yaqeeneng.com Salesman experienced 5 yrs in Oman, in the field of industrial & oilfield service, garage equipment tools & spares, safety wears & rescue equipments.

Please forward your CV to almaadhi.trd@gmail.com

Indian male M.Com 6 yrs experience in accounts up to finalization in Oman having Oman D/L available to join immediately with NOC. Contact : 98363897 Email: princ9496@hotmail.com Accountant having 8 yrs, experience looking for part time job.

Contact: 99867456 Jordanian, Senior accountant, 34 year old, 12 years experience in the GCC, 7 years in construction & 4 years in hospital having Oman D/L proficient in tally 9.0.

Contact 96470036 Young dynamic Indian MBA having one year exp in CA Firm looking for an opening. Skills: MS Office & Tally.

Contact:+919744732896/ Email: asifakbar4@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Tanzanian male, 25 yrs Accountant successful experience in Tanzania looking for suitable placement in any field. Contact : 96710154 Tunisian lady has Professorship in social and economical sciences and accounting, diploma in Experimental Sciences degree in English for media. Contact 95391050, aysser2013@gmail.com

Finance Manager (15+yrs experience) thorough knowledge on Holding Company accounts. Well versed on Trading, Investment, Insurance Brokerage, Travel & Rent A Car accounts. Ability to manage Group of companies. Contact: 92701962 : amritaa.m2002@gmail.com

India Accountant: Male, M com, 7 Yrs experience in Accounts up to finalization, having knowledge of ERP, Tally, seeks suitable placment. contact 93950138 Email: lijinrajan123@gmail.com

Indian male B.Com, 1 year experience in accounts and sales looking for suitable placement on visit visa.

Contact: 98295101

Indian male, 32 years, M. Com. 7 out of 9 years experience in Oman in Accounts/finance. Having NOC and valid Oman D/L. Contact 98277143, Email: anzarks@gmail.com

Chief Accountant / Accounts Manager, Indian male (34 years) MBA/ M.com more than 10 years experience (7 tears in Oman) with D/L NOC available seeks suitable placement. Contact: 96915438 MBA Indian male looking for suitable position having 2 years working experience as an accountant now in Oman a visiting visa.

Contact: 99424803 Indian male 22 yrs B. Com Graduate 1 year exp in Accounts, currently on visit visa. Looking for suitable job.

Contact 94341848 / Email – mohdhaji7272@gmail.com Analyst accountant knowledge & skill excel Advance misreport account & finance administration work document oracle advertising knowledge degree MBA, BBM. Contact 91840109/99783953 Email: mohd.rashid19@gmail.com

AUTO CAD/ARCHITECT

MBA Graduate with 6 yrs exp in finance/accounts/ auditing. Specialized in accounts payable dept, Oracle app user, proficient in Sap (fico) end user & tally 9.0. lean &six sigma certified trainer on visit visa.

Contact – 91967213 / 99064780

Heavy P.D.O license.

Contact: 95606146 Light duty driver seeks job.

Contact : 91122145 / 95992137 Driver with car, 3 years experience part & full time looking for job.

Contact: 97456062 Light Driver needs Job. Contact: 93284327 For Driving. Contact: 95870012 Bangladeshi male looking for a light vehicle driving job. Contact: 97751070

English Teacher female (M. A. B. Ed) having 14 years experience with 11 years experience in Oman with reputed Institute and School. Contact: 92289080 / 99318276 Email: babvjosev@yahoo.com

ADMIN/HR Indian Female MBA, 3 Years experience in Admin MIS, Family Visa.

Contact 98234427, jkjsmith01@gmail.com Indian male 2+yrs oman exp in HR. joing immediatly. release available.

Contact :93671437

Indian female with 10 yrs of experience in HR/Banking/Operations seeks a suitable placement. Can be contacted on 98919015 or sherianne.coelho@gmail.com

Indian male with total 5 year experience (2 years experience in Accountant cum sales co ordinator in a FMCG Company in Oman) in accounts field and NOC available.

Looking for suitable job Contact 92130188

Looking for job LTV driver, exp 15 years. Contact: 93183817

Female architect (27) 4 years experience seeking for suitable job in Oman experience in Oman, India & UK. Contact: 96146645 Email: anjuovil@gmail.com

Part time Accounts job & finalization work Muscat. Contact: 92917448

Finance Manager, CPA, with more than 15 yrs. of experience in GCC. Fully knowledgeable in Finance, General & Management Accounting .

NOC available. Contact 96209331

Driver with car 10 years experience part and full time looking for job light driver. Contact: 95897233

Driver light. Contact: 91020999

Over 15 years of gulf experience in Admin /HR /Logistics, fluent in Arabic & English with D/L looking for suitable position.

Contact 95824598

Sr. Accountant M.com (finance) 15 years experience (2years in Oman with a reputed firm) NOC available.

Contact: 92404608 Email: jin_75@rediffmail.com

Driver 6 yrs exp knowing English, Arabic, Hindi Education B. A. Contact: 99512270

Autocad D man, Gulf exp in major projects, knows arch, structural, MEP, NOC available ph: 98225740

Indian male 25 yrs B.com having experience in accounts for 3 yrs currently on visit looking to job.

Contact: 97937868 Email: rehman.naseer999@gmail.com

An Indian lady Chartered Accountant with five years experience (including article ship) on family visa in Oman looking for a suitable job. Please Contact 9621 0347 / 9943 5346, shincycrajan@gmail.com

DRIVER

Document controller / project coordinator having 15 years experience is same Field.

Contact: 00919605635590

CATERING Indian male currently in Oman on visit, looking for suitable vacancy in hotel Industry as Supervisor having 8 years experience in Europe.

Contact: 97376612

DESIGNER Indian male, MA multimedia, 25 yrs presently working in Bangalore as visual layout / Graphics designer having 2 years experience, seeks suitable placement. Currently on short visit.

Contact 92368969 Email: don007james@gmail.com

EDUCATION

Qualified primary English Teacher for almost 12 years W/ experience in Qatar independent school international school & British curricular IELTS qualified looking for immediate post. Contact: 98938272 Email: me_ann_laloma@yahoo.com

ENGG. / TECHNICAL Indian male, B.E ( computer science engineer), MBA (finance), OCA certified, having 5 years of experience in oracle Dba/ oracle apps Dba, seeks a suitable position in the field of IT. Contact: 96212062 email: zubairkhan11@gmail.com Indian male 24 years, Mechanical Engineer,pdms.1 yr experience in pipeline,16years in oman seeking immediate placement # 95775742 Omani Mechanical Engineer, has 3 years experience ,has HSE, H2S, Riggers/Banks men Permit, Drawing / cad, SCBA, Safety Leadership and Initial Fire Response Courses. good with computer and English language looking for suitable job. Contact 99224319-98454500 Indian male 22 Mechanical Diploma holder Engg with HVAC certified, having 1 year exp. seeking suitable position. Currently available on visit visa. Contact - 92835952 B.Sc in civil Engineer having 2 years experience with driving license in Oman. Contact 94618906 Email: msamps988@yahoo.com

DOMESTIC HELPER

Indian male 26 yrs mechanical Engineer with 3 yrs experience in Indian in MEP, HVAC& mechanical maintained field on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact: 99191535 Email: fareed029@gmail.com

Housemaid & houseboy, Indian with 4 yrs exp looking for job.

Contact 91299288

Civil Engineer (B.E) 12 years experience with valid Oman D/L. Contact: 93843448

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D5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED

ENGG. / TECHNICAL Indian female M.E power system B.E Electrical Engg, seeks suitable placement. Contact: 99842083 /99326054 Keralite Comp: Engr experienced in BPO on visit seeking any type of job. Email: khais2001@gmail.com, contact 92094926 Sales Engineer (37), 15 yrs (12 yrs Oman) experience in structured cabling fiber optics, data centers, security & AV, Telecom, Network & datacom, OSP, Industrial Connectivity. Contact: 99771815, Noc. Indian male 30 years Mechanical Engineering Diploma with 4+ years of Experience in Fabrication drawings using CAD Software’s in India, now on a visit visa seeking for a suitable placement in OMAN. Will be available till 12/6/15 for interview. #99013952, vineetf56@gmail.com Civil Engineer male 13 years exp Indian seeking suitable job.

Contact: +919640973798 Email: firozbakhtiar2@gmail.com Diploma in Civil Engineer with 10 yrs experience, valid Omani driving license, NOC available.

Contact: 94052815.

5 years experienced Q.S ENG with driving license looking for suitable position. Contact: 98142595 Indian male 25, Diploma Civil Engineer 2 years experience insite Engineer looking for suitable placement. Contact: 96750429 Indian female 28 yrs having 2 yrs experience as Estimation and Design Engineer (BMS) with valid Omani driving license seeks suitable placement. Contact: 99047570 Electrical Engineer, 2 years as Project Engineer office works proposals / contracts site jobs installations/ maintenance. Contact: 96209298 English/ Arabic languages B.Com DMM logistics Telecommunication Agriculture 15 years experience 2 years Oman seeking placement. Contact: 91227198 Email: raju_poduval@rediffmail.com Indian- B.E.-MBA having 25 years Experience. Last 12 years in Oil & Gas Sector in Oman. Business Development /Sales. Looking opening in Oil Gas Trading/Drilling Service Companies as GM/ Country Manager/ Business Development Manager. Email : gmbdm2015oilandgas@gmail.com; Contact -94688594; 0091 9768406574 Graduate Electrical Engineer having 6 years experience of Gulf and professional license available to join. Contact: 98063081 Indian male, B.A, 4 years experience in Teaching 3 years experience in life insurance, 3 years experience in supermarket division UAE as Sales Promoter for the whole group.

Contact : 91968699 Indian male, (B.E) Electronics and Communication (ENC), 2 years experience in Instrument Engineer and plant supervisor in India.

Contact : 94188216 Email: azeez45ec@gmail.com Indian Civil Engineer (building) available immediately as supply contract. Contact : 95218004 Electrical Engineer 10 years experience in underground cables extension and distribution substation and terrestrial station available in Oman, on visit visa. Contact : 95471606 Civil Engineer: 5 years experience in building & structure works in Oman seeks suitable placement.

NOC available. Contact: 98180524 Engineer (ECE) seeking job.

Contact: 98584498 / 91981503

IT

Toms Davis, 5+yrs Exp in Projects and design, 10+2+Diploma in Mech Eng, 92068508 Civil Engineer, Indian Female, 3 yrs experience, on visit visa seeking suitable placement. Contact: 99195433 Indian female 27 yrs-BSc Biotech and P.G Diploma in Quality Assurance having experience in Pharmaceutical Industry seeking immediate placement- Contact- 93218363.

Indian male B.Tech marine Engineer on visit visa. Seeking suitable placement. Contact – 91991386 / prvnpurushan@gmail.com Sudanese Electrical Engineer, 2 years experience.

Contact: 91211592 Email: aymanhamza1990@gmail.com Network / system Engineer B.E / ECE + CCNA & Ms certified with 4+ yrs exp looking for a job, currently in Oman on visit visa. Contact : 92589502 / 96216397, Email : jeganscareer@gmail.com Filipino HSE officer with 7 years and 5 months experience in MEP and civil construction works, Qatar petroleum, nakilat shipyard, super substation and high NSE building with Nebosh IGC 3, IOSH, Auditor lead course etc. Contact 98938461 Email: e.romil@yahoo.com Indian male 26 yrs mechanical Engineer with 3 yrs experience in Indian in MEP, HVAC& mechanical maintained field on visit visa looking for suitable job.

Contact: 99191535 Email: fareed029@gmail.com Instrumentation Engineer, Indian male having 2 years experience in process instruments and sales seeks suitable placement on visit visa.

Contact: 95954385 Email: irfancisinn@gmail.com Indian Male, IT Support Engineer, 2 yrs in Oman & 5 yrs Indian experience. Contact 97311847 Indian female, B.Tech biotechnology with strong computer skills and 2 years experience as associate research analyst (Media Monitoring) in Nasdaq Oman seeking growth oriented jobs. Contact 92044603 /918056169148 or angeline.babithac@gmail.com.

Electrical Eng. Degree (MEP) need suitable job of construction 12 yrs exp.

Email: mohd.ateeq.khan@gmail.com

IT Network and Security Engineer with a master degree, CISCO and Linux red hat certified seeking a suitable job in a good company.

Contact 99818601 Indian male, 20+ years experience in IT management, ERP implementation, seeks suitable opening.

Contact: 96101779 Networking technician with driving license, with Noc, having 2 experiences in data & telephone structured cubing EPABX & CCTV installation is looking for suitable jobs. Contact: 96027516 Gulf experienced Software Developer & certified professional in English looking from a Job with vast experience in sales and Management + D/L. Contact 00968 96701312 Email: farhanaslam586@yahoo.com Network system Engineer B.E / ECE + CCNA & Ms certified with 4+ yrs exp looking for a job. Currently in Oman on visit visa. Contact: 92589502 Email: careersjegan@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS 13 Years UAE experienced in MNC & reputed firms logistics distribution looking for a suitable placement, on visit visa contact 99838743, gani.dawood@gmail.com Construction Surveyor Indian looking for suitable job.

Contact 91977142 / 95141554

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR Sr Manager, MBA, 18 yrs professional exp in building material, tiles, sanitary wares, bath, turnkey projects, interiors, modular kitchens, hardwares & tools. Project sales in Gulf countries with GCC license on visit visa looking for job assignment.

Contact 93364846

25 yrs, Omani male, 5 years exp seeking job in IT all info in website.

Contact najeeb719.weeblycom Indian female B.E 2 years of IT experience with IBM – Indian certified in oracle PL /SQL and forms developer seeking job in IT field in reputed company. Contact: 95094189 Email: bijigopu7@gmail.com Indian male BCA, MCA, 2 years experience in software programming knowledge of Java, SQL, NET, C#, ASP. NET, DB2, Oracle. Contact: 99210940 IT, female fresher MCA, BCA Oracle certified 6 months PLSQL, data ware housing training PHP seeking job at good company. Contact: 95694330 Email: monakasapool@gmail.com Expat Lady (M.Sc IT), Looking for suitable position in IT/Office work.

Contact 98176793, Email : santhi.85@gmail.com

Electrical Engineer new in Oman B.Tech (Hons.) with Diploma of Electrical Engg. seeks a suitable job.

Contact: 96752080 Email: ilyasqader97@gmail.com

IT professional with 20 years experience MBA, PMP, OCP, ITIL certified looking for suitable position.

Contact: 91829676

Btech computer science graduate 2015 passout.. Android application marketing.. Having good communication skills and mindset to work in a team. Contact 91024385

Indian female 27 yrs B.Tech (IT) MBA one years of experience as a software analyst. Contact 91234864 Email: ashwinirathnam2011@gmail. com

Mechanical Engineer B.E fresher (QA, QC , Piping & NDT + 1 month practical training in production & oil field) seeking immediate placement currently on visit visa. Contact – 0096896107833, Email albinalbin.thomas@gmail.com

Indian male 32 yrs, 6 years experience instore in charge with Indoor salesman looking for suitable job.

Contact: 97385874 Indian 23 years B.Com Graduate, 2 years experience in Sales knowledge of ERP & MS Office.

Email : syedismailnoor@gmail.com

Indian heavy duty driver with 8 years experience in oman available with NOC. GSM : 93601943 GSM : 94496457

23 yrs old Pakistani bachelor in accounts and marketing 3.5 yrsexp 2 yrsexp in Oman, looking for a job.

Contact- 99374062

Indian male, 30 yrs, 6 years Gulf experience in shipping operations and customer service, NOC available.

Contact: 93042516

INDIAN male, MBA GRADUATE as well as BBA specialized in Finance and Marketing, proficient in Tally.9, seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 0091 7025696085, Email : praseed.nandhu@gmail.com

Indian Male 33 looking for Scaffolding Supervisor vacancy in Oil & Gas field in Oman. Having 5 years experience in CCC Qatar and 3 years in Saudi” Contact 96155921 fysal.nellaya@gmail.com or

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 visit Contact 94093154, 95963281, joyjohn_hhh@yahoo.com

Sudanese/Bsc IT/26/2 years experience/excellent Eng-Arb speaking/ Omani driving license/96387227/ henrykarrar@gmail.com

Indian male MBA 7 years experience in Hospitality industry, operation, sales & marketing looking for suitable vacancy. Contact 92115860 Email vibin.py@gmail.com

8 years store experience Indian male looking for placement. N.O.C available. Contact: 98456535 8 years purchase experienced Indian male looking for job. N.O.C. available. Contact: 98161323 Indian male, 30, BSc, Food Science and Quality control, MBA 5 years experience, driving license.

Contact: 93405643 Indian male with 08 yrs exp in sales & marketing, seeks suitable placement. NOC available.

Contact: 95970204 Indian Male, B.Com Graduate, 23, with experience in Sales looking for suitable placements.

Contact - 9837 1144 Indian male, B.Sc (Mathematics) PGDBM (Marketing). 9 yrs of Oman experience in sales in midlevel management, NOC available.

Valid Oman D/L. Contact: 95278838 Email: anup2p4p@yahoo.com

Indian male 29 yrs, M.sc post graduate having 7 years experience in healthcare Industry presently working in orthopedic Implants company (MNC) in Indian ( trauma & spine ) on visiting visa seeking suitable job opening. Contact: 93083553 Email: prakash05629@yahoo.com

P.H.D , 20 years, 2.5yrs Oman agriculture green house fertilizers marketing seeking suitable placement. Contact 93220249 Email: anthurium7777@gmail.com

29 Indian male Nurse.B.SC prometric exam passed on a visit. 10 years experience in India & Italy seeks a suitable placement in multinational hospitals & clinics. Contact 96071773 – sanukochiparampil@gmail.com Assistant Pharmacist (Indian female, 28 yrs) with MOH license.

Contact 93022787 / 99108751 Indian female Dentist MOH Oman passed seeking a suitable placement in capital region. Contact– 91377681 hashimsarawat@gmail.com Well experienced MOH Licensed Indian GP Doctor looking for locum / permanent position in the Capital area. Contact 98140024 email:drgpoman@yahoo.com Lab Technician, Civil (8yrs Gulf experience) looking for a suitable job (NOC available) Contact-93344378

SALES / MARKETING Male MBA (General) from Cardiff Metropolitan University London) looking for a suitable placement.

Contact 92819301 Email: adicbhat@outlook.com Pakistani male 34 yrs Intermediate 2 yrs exp in sales & marketing in Oman. Looking for suitable job.

Contact - 92146864 Indian male 45+ yrs , 20 yrs exp as sales supervisor in India looking for indoor sales /stores /cashier or any suitable placement can speak Hindi , English, Malayalam, Tamil, kannada can join immediately on visit visa.

Contact 93086105/33016546

MISCELLANEOUS Indian Female 30 Yrs ( Master in Hospital Administration ) Lead Auditor ISO 9001:2008 QMS; ISO 14001:2004 EMS Certified Having Total Exp. of 6+ years ( Last 3 Years In Oman ) In Healthcare Administration ,Quality , Training , HR & Healthcare Audit .Well versed In JCI (U.S.A.) Accreditation/NABH Accreditation .

Seeks Opening in Quality /Training / Auditing /HR&A Department .

Currently on Family Visit Visa (Received NOC).

GSM: 96683277 / 93747007 E-Mail: smsraza819@gmail.com

BE computer science 6 years experience software developer and support Engineering exp sales and management Oman D/L, NOC available. Contact: 98097722

MEDICAL

MCA Indian male 24 yrs seeking suitable placement in software / Database support currently on visit visa.

Contact 96785261 Email: sudheesh.edakkadan@gmail.com

Indian male 10 years experience in Welding Supervisor NDT Technician, MIG Welding specialist seeking suitable job. Contact 96771841

B.Com Graduate with 12 years experience in procurement/logistics/warehouse in construction and building materials seeks suitable placement.

NOC available. Contact : 94657319

IT Software Engineer 6+ Exp.(MCA with Distinction) interested in IT/ Teaching Contact-92656246

SALES / MARKETING

Indian male MBA (HR& marketing) 2 years experience in sales seeking suitable position now on visiting.

Contact: 96483964 An Indian male having rich experience in procurement, Sales marketing and office administration seeking suitable position.

Contact: 93689602 Indian male Graduate in business management having work experience of 12 years looking for a suitable position. Contact : 93431567

SECRETARIAL/OFFICE Indian male MBA having 10 years experience in Oman as Document controller and 2+ Years experience as Project Assistant / Executive Secretary seeks suitable placement.

NOC available Contact: 95373198, email: sydnvrng@yahoo.com Arabic – English translator having, 3 years experience currently on visit visa seeks translation or Bi-Lingual, Secretarial job.

Contact: 96599601 Email: gawadjamal@gmail.com Indian male more than 10 years Gulf experience in Office / Sales Coordinator, Admin (employees visa processes), Secretarial and purchase coordination with good computer skills. Having Driving license and NOC available. Looking for suitable placement. Contact 99709336

TOURS & TRAVELS 25 Indian female B.S.C. Fashion Technology. 5 years experience in textile industry as a merchandiser and good in fashion marketing.

Currently available on visit visa, seeking for a suitable job.

Contact 96990368.

Email: simmy.missy@gmail.com

Indian Male, Mechanical Engineer 35 years, with 3 years of experience and on visit visa is looking for a suitable Job, Contact: 91991435,93310821 Indian male Oman experience in electrical and plumbing looking for a suitable position.

Please contact 00919591340961, 00917795583924.

MCA IT Professional Indian Female seek placement in Teaching/ Non Teaching field. Presently on visit visa. 9588 7051, ashwininakod@gmail.com 6 years exp. including 4 years Oman exp. with Professional qualification Of CA strategic level I ACCA,B. com(Special). Experienced in financial Report preparation & Worked in ERP, ORACLE & SAP. seeking accountant position. #92008368 , Mujeeb75@ymail.com Young Indian Chartered Accountant, Female, Having 6 years experience in Oman and India. Accounts and Finance Manager, Auditor.

Urgently seeking suitable positions.

Contact-92530131, jobcareer44@gmail.com Light driver looking for job.

Contact 92791678 Indian Female looking for an Internship or Part time opportunity in any Interior Design, Architectural or Design Firm . Contact 95811820 Male - B.E Mechanical Engineer fresher( QA, QC , Piping & NDT + 1 month practical training in production & oil field ) seeking immediate placement currently on visit visa.

Contact - 0096896107833 Email albinalbin.thomas@gmail.com Senior Accounts Professional, Indian Male, 35 years, M.Com, MBA (Fin) 8 years in Oman, with valid Oman DL and NOC available. Capable to handle accounts up to finalization.

Contact 9602 3965.

Indian male, 14 yrs Experience in Maintenance & Supervisor in hotel field (Electrical, Ac Mechanical & Plumber) N O C available.

Contact 95253640 Indian female,available on visit visa,knowledge in AutoCAD 2012,Revit 2012,Adobe photoshop C3, Google sketchup, seeking suitable position.

Email:dhiyana.mhmd@gmail.com.

Indian Male 58yrs, Oman experience 31yrs in Multifunctional Management, Administration, Business Development, Purchase & Operations, seeking suitable Manager/ Supervisory Position. Visa transfer/ NOC Available. GSM: 95036410

Indian male, 34 yrs, ca inter pass, with 14 yrs experience, is seeking suitable placement, currently on visit visa & ready to join immediately. Contact: 95585069 or 95630747 26 years Indian male with MBA & PGDFM, Total 3.8 years experience in Administration, seeking suitable placement in any gulf region.

Holding Oman valid driving license.

Contact :93359371 ACCA affiliate,male,2.5 years experience in an audit firm in Finance & Audit, looking for suitable immediate placement. Release available.

Contact 95140445, a.saran891@gmail.com Indian Female: MCA, 3 Years Exp. as Asst. Professor, Specialization in C # (sharp).net, Data Comm.& Networking, Knowledge about Web Development, ASP.Net, Oracle, SQL,VB.net.

Seek Immediate Placement. Now on Visit Visa.9588 7051 ashwininakod@gmail.com Indian male 21 IT Engineer Networking & Computer hardware course 01 yr experience currently on visit visa looking for suitable job.

Contact 96036273, E mail faizanfarooqui23@gmail.com Indian male, 14 yrs Experience in Maintenance & Supervisor in hotel field ( Electrical . Ac Mechanical & Plumber ) N O C available # 95253640 email: hareeshma24@yahoo.com Sales/ Marketing Executive : 35 years old Indian male, MBA, having experiences in UAE and India in sales and marketing field, presently on visit visa, looking for a suitable job in Salalah or in Oman.

Contact 91233648 Well experienced hair dresser/ beautician required, visa available.

Contact – 96524717 Indian female 25 yrs MBA finance currently on visit visa seeks immediate placement. Contact 9843 0089 Civil Autocad draughtsman looking for part time job. Mobile: 95218737 30 years Indian male with hotel management degree, 02 years experience in F&B service at five star hotel in Dubai and 05 years in American 6 star cruiseliner as Butler . Currently in Muscat on visit visa. Contact 91075704 Indian male 27 years, MBA, having more than 5 yrs experience in sales and marketing, looking for suitable job. Contact no.99224057, +919824823734

25yrs experienced indian marketing mangr seeking suitable position. .presently working as a General Manager one of the leading Hyper Market Group in Oman.valid omani driving licence. Release available . contact number.92205026. aparayath@Gmail.Com

Part- Time Accountant, well versed with all accounting, Finalization, Budgeting available.# 98803439

Indian male executive secretary having vast experience in admin, logistics & procurement well versed with computer seeks suitable placement. Contact : 99514286

ACCA affiliate, male, 23, 2.5years of vast experience in finance & audit in audit firm,seeking suitable placement immediately. # 96895140445, a.saran891@gmail.com

Indian female, B.Com graduate, 2 years experience in admin department looking for a suitable placement. Contact 92531929

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DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

DRIVING

Learn driving with professional only automatic. Contact 94022250

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED B.E Biomedical Engineer, having 5 years of experience in Diagnostics division seeking suitable position.

94151658 Indian Male, 29 years, CCNP, MCITP having Bachelor degree and 6 years of experience in Networking looking for job. 96760618 / varghese.manthara@gmail.com B.E. Civil Engineer from India with 3 years of experience looking for suitable vacancy in oman now on visit visa. Contact 9571 3441, Email . Khatrialeem@gmail.com Indian male 21 IT Eng. networking & computer hardware diploma, 1 year experience, currently on visit visa looking for a suitable job Contact 96036273 email: faizanfarooqui23@gmail.com Indian Female, Commerce Graduate, Total 9 yrs of experience in India. worked as Accounts Assistant and Business executive seeking for suitable placement.

Tel : 96173533/24222457 Email : topranidivya@gmail.com 24 year Indian Chartered Accountant male with 3yrs of experience is seeking suitable placement in Muscat, currently on visit visa & ready to join immediately. Contact him on 98201476 or email at lokeshkaluri@gmail.com Indian, 32 years, completed M.A. English, M.Sc. Psychology and B.Ed in English. Searching for suitable job in the field of teaching. To Contact: 00968 99869535 Email: sahadkeyi33@gmail.com 8 Years successful experience, SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, Indian male,29 years. Presently working in Oman as a Senior Accountant with oman Driving license seeks suitable opportunity. GSM: 97705854 Female Executive Assistant/Executive Secretary with 27+ experience, worked with top management/Board in financial services with shorthand skills & Omani driving license, seeks suitable placement. call 95941515 26 years Indian male with MBA & PGDFM, Total 3.8 years experience in Administration, seeking suitable placement in any gulf region.

Holding Oman valid driving license.

Contact :94501423 Indian Male 24 years, Looking for a Suitable Job in Telecom / Networking. 1 year sales experience. MSc. Communications Engineering & Valid Driving license. Ph: 91280121.

Email: jackrprasad@yahoo.com Indian Male, 29 years, CCNP, MCITP having Bachelor degree and 6 years of experience in Networking looking for job. 96760618 / varghese.manthara@gmail.com 8 yrs exp Site supervisor cum 2d, 3d Draughtsman (holding Omani driving license) seeking job.

Contact : 93790601 Iraqi Pharmacist with 15 years experience as regulatory affairs and Marketing Manager seeking job in pharmaceutical co. Mobile 96720441

SITUATION WANTED Sr. Manager, MBA, 18yrs professional exp in Building materials, interiors, tiles, sanitary wares, Gypsum in gulf, seeking job immediately/on visit/ Contact - 93364846 / mgrprofessional@hotmail.com Indian Male 34 years Mechanical Engineer 3 years of Experience seeking suitable placement immediately Contact: 91991435, 93310821 Civil Engineer, Diploma, Male 25, 3 years experience in site, CAD, 3d, MS Project, Seeking job in Oman.

Contact 92875345, jubincivileng@gmail.com Indian female B.ED & BCA looking for a suitable placement in school or admin office, having 5 yrs exp in same field. Contact – 97384206 / rani_sweet786@live.com Electronics and instrumentation Engineer 28 year Indian male, electrical, electronic, industrial, building & automation exp of 4+ yrs in India.

Contact - 93154156 CCNP Network Professional with 6 years experience having Bachelors degree on visit visa looking for suitable job.

Contact: 96760618 email: varghese.manthara@gmail.com Indian female, B.Com. knowledge of MS Office & Tally, 4yrs experience in Accounts &admin dept. looking for good placement in any field.

Contact.98928220 Indian female with MBA (Finance) on visit visa, seeks immediate placement. Phone: 968-98430089 Indian female, IATA, Bsc, Looking for suitable placement.

Contact-95514305, email idraveendranmala@gmail.com Sudanese male, 31 year old, have 3 year Diploma in electrical engineer, 5 year experience in different activities. Contact; +96894549609 CCNP Network Professional with 6 years experience having Bachelors degree on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact: 96 76 06 18 Indian male, total experience is 5 years in Retail industry. Currently supervisor in Sun and sand sports Muscat City centre. Contact : 96994345.

Email : jsp.jsr85@gmail.com Indian male, post graduate, currently in Oman on visit visa.

Seeks suitable placement.

Contact 92388346 Indian male 60 years old have 30 years Muscat experience in all office works with Omani driving license.

Contact: 99024055 Male, 30 years Accountant, 1 year Oman experience in accountants, finance. Seeking suitable position in Muscat .Can join immediately, NOC available. Email: lalitbls1@gmail.com Call: 97903175 More than Ten years of experience in Sales & Marketing, Advertisement and Credit Control and Logistics& Administration.

Contact 91076608 / 99322748

MCA IT Professional Indian Female seek placement in Teaching/ Non Teaching field. Presently on visit visa. Contact 9588 7051, Email: ashwininakod@gmail Indian male, Engineer, BE Mechanical, having with 21 years of experience in India and 13 years in Oman, In production, project management, quality control and assurance and MR for ISO and API Standards looking out for a suitable placement in Oman. GSM: 00968 97311616.

E-MAIL: fahazasa@yahoo.com Indian female BA graduate. My total experience is 4 and half year in Call Center looking for jobs in admin and HR. Contact : 96089143, Email: sharanjit_kaur2009@yahoo.com Indian male, MBA marketing & finance with B com & diploma in IFRS seeks job.

Contact 99469726 / 99469729 Key Account Executive, Indian male, currently working with a reputed FMCG company Oman is looking for a placement asap, NOC will be given. Valid Omani driving license. Total experience in Oman is 12yrs and particularly in Sales is 8 1/2 years. Contact 95589765 Email : agnelfrancis@yahoo.co.in 25 Indian female, B.Sc fashion technologist, 5 years exp in merchandising, familiar with fashion marketing & designing. Currently available on visit visa, seeking for a visual merchandising job. Contact : 96990368, email jumshi@gmail.com Sudanese male BSC Telecommunications Engineer , 4 years experience in telecom field #97783092, Email: Alrsheed88@hotmail.com Indian male, 28 years, 7 years experience in transporting & heavy equipment renting company. Having Omani driving license seeks suitable positions. Contact 94410485 Civil autocad draughtsman part time work for job mob :96023726 Working as Senior Accountant, 4 yrs.exp.in oman, relevant computer skills, Audit, Accounting upto finalization, valid oman driving license, languages known Arabic, Hindi. NOC available can join immediately. Tel: (+968) 96339599, E-mail-(ahmedmohdkhan@gmail. com) Mechanical Engineer, Indian, (B.E.) on visit visa, seeking suitable post.

Contact :99534733 Email: rajesh92prince@gmail.com Male, 19 years of experience in Finance and Administration currently on visit visa seeks suitable placement. Contact: 99720132/ abidrafi33@hotmail.com Sudanese male BSC Telecommunications Engineer, 4 years experience in telecom field.Contact : 97783092, Email: alrsheed88@hotmail.com Indian female, B.Com. knowledge of MS Office &Tally, 4yrs experience in Accounts &admin dept. looking for good placement in any field.

Contact: 98928220

SITUATION WANTED Piping Design Engineer, Indian male 27, looking for suitable placement in Piping Design & Engineering. Having 7 years of experience in AutoCAD. Also familiar with PDMS (11.6 Version),CAESAR ll. Contact : 97351786 / 96143708, E-mail : mohammednazeer07@gmail.com Key Account Executive , currently working with a reputed FMCG company Oman is looking for a placement asap, NOC available, valid Omani driving license.

Total experience in Oman is 12yrs and particularly in Sales is 8 1/2 years. Contact 95589765 Email : agnelfrancis@yahoo.co.in Senior IT Professional, Indian Male, more than 17 yrs. of experience in software development(PB, Oracle, SAP ABAP) and IT Support with valid Oman DL and NOC available Contact : 92193867, Email : cp.prasad@gmail.com Indian female MBA Finance currently on visit visa. Seeks immediate placement. Phone: 968-98430089 23,Male, ACCA with 2.5 years experience in Big6 audit firm and Oil/ Gas,looking for permanent placement in Accounts/Audit. Contact #95140445 a.saran891@gmail.com

Indian female MBA Finance currently on visit visa, seeks immediate placement. Phone- 98430089 Female British Beauty Therapist looking for suitable situation.

Contact 97175240 Civil supervisor-8 year’s experience in commercial and residential building, including portable cabin, natural and artificial play ground’s, and Oxy petroleum field, at sultanate of Oman. GSM :91249005. Mail :sandeep88joseph@gmail.com Indian Male 28yr age having 6year gulf+ Indian experience in HR field.

Looking for suitable placement. Contact: 97914340, Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com Indian male 27, looking for suitable placement in Piping Design & Engineering. Having 7 years of experience in AutoCAD. Also familiar with PDMS (11.6 Version),CAESAR ll. Contact : 97351786 / 96143708, E-mail : mohammednazeer07@gmail.com ACCA affiliate & Bsc (Oxford Brookes University), 2.5 years experience in oilfield & audit/finance in Big6 firm, seeking permanent placement. Release available. Contact 95140445, a.saran891@gmail.com

Indian Male 34 years Mechanical Engineer 3 years of Experience seeking suitable placement immediately contact: 91991435, 93310821 Indian male 21 Diploma in Mechanical Eng with HVAC certified having 6 yrsexp and seeking job in HVAC field as a supervisor. Currently on visit visa. Contact 92835952/ 92734863 Sudanese / 29 years old / Bsc English language and Translation / 3 years experience in Oman teaching & translation / have driving license.

Contact 94211377.

Email: hosam.karar.1@gmail.com Indian female B.Com graduate, 4years experience in accounts & administration department looking for suitable placement. #98928220 Indian female, B.Com. Knowledge of MS Office &Tally, 4yrs experience in accounting & admin dept. looking for good placement in any field.

Contact.98928220 Indian Male 27, Piping Design Engineer looking for suitable placement in Piping Design & Engineering. Also familiar with PDMS (11.6 Version),CAESAR ll, AutoCAD. Contact : 97351786 / 96143708, E-mail : mohammednazeer07@gmail.com

S U N DAY, M AY 3 1 , 2 0 1 5

D7

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours Contact- 98029602, 92808636

TOURS

RENT A CAR

TRANSPORTATION Transportation.

Contact: 91310107

Transportation available. Contact: 99867456

Driver with vehicle. Contact 99159277

Transportation. Contact 99077348

Transport to ISWK. Contact 93172589

House shifting & transporting.

Contact 92490422

Pick & Drop any time. Contact 97014786

Transportation. Contact 99508282

D8

S U N DAY, M AY 3 1 , 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

WEBSITE

ACCOUNTANTS AND CONSULTANTS

WE ARE PROVIDING ACCOUNTING/ AUDITING TAX/ CONSULTING CONTACT: 24 567 251 / 95 498 033

CLASSES

COMPUTER

BUSINESS

WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price.

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MATRIMONIAL KERALA NAIR BOY working in Muscat, age 31 ,Height 165cm.

Seeking alliance from Nair / Nambiar girls, especially from north Malabar area. Manager visa with family status GSM: 96344388 Alliance invited for a Hindu, Ezhava male 28, 5”8” working as a machinist in a well established company in Oman. Contact: 98323862 We are Muslim family seeking alliance for our son interested families. Contact 97664009 Kerala Nair girl, B.Com, 22 yrs, 5.2” very fair, slim, (Star Uthrattathi) Presently working in infosis, Chennai. Financially sound, from parents of nair boys from Trissur, Palakkad and Eranakulam & Calicut dist. .

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NRI

Alliance invited for a Nair girl 24 yrs, 5ft, 1”, fair, slim, B.Tech graduate reputed family of Ernakulam dist. (Star Thiruvonam Sudhajathakam) financially sound, from parents of B.Tech nair boys from Trissur, Palakkad and Eranakulam dist. . Contact :00919495924302 email: raveendrandr@yahoo.com Software development based on requirements such as: Web development & cloud computing, SAP implementation & services. Android App development networking.

Contact 97423932

Hindu Ezhava family, settled in Muscat looking for suitable groom working within Oman for their daughter 25 yrs (MBA) working with a reputed company in Muscat.

Contact : 98689663

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Contact 99657644/ 98518013 Specialist available for explosive growth in term of restructuring all modules of businesses with over 30 years of experience across continents with a decade in Oman.

Contact 96733578 Email : profitoman@gmail.com Maintenance / House shift. Ng works / Labour supply on daily basis. Contact: 95696001 / 97439768

Ready / under construction apartments / villas / row houses / shops, available for sale in North / South Goa (India). tel # 95867021 E- mail tonynoronha@rocketmail.com Residential plot 47 cents, also as 10-15 cents plots at Manjapra 15kms from Nedumbassery Airport with calm and beautiful surroundings.

Price IRS.180,000/cent.

Contact 9193 6563

A/C maintenance & servicing.

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Pest Control Treatments, Termites, Cockroaches, Bedbugs. Contact Ocean Centre LLC. Contact 99344723

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Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722

AVAILABLE

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Party & Wedding equipment rentals.

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